Architectural Ragtime exposes the work and accomplishments of the prominent and prolific architectural firm of, Geo. F. Barber & Co. Virtually every major town has a residence designed by the Knoxville-based architect, who created and sold house designs through his various publications and efficient mail-order business. Despite his widespread success, little has been written about Barber, his firm and the artistic taste he sought to create. Michael D. Alcorn and Christopher R. DiMattei provide an unprecedented and comprehensive analysis of Barber and his architecture, which is enhanced by extensive contemporary documentation of these historic homes. Students, scholars and historic home enthusiasts will find this an important resource that will enhance their understanding and appreciation of this influential architect.

This volume illustrates, through hundreds of built examples, how Barber was able to reach his clientele, provide them with professional architectural services, and satisfy their desire for a home that represented their place in their community, even though Barber was potentially hundreds if not thousands of miles away from them. It explores Barber’s place in our national heritage and provides a mountain of documentation in support of the prospect that George Barber just might be, America’s most prolific architect. It also presents Barber’s design philosophy, the appeal of Barber’s artistic taste and the widespread success of his firm, again, through the many examples of his home designs. Fully indexed and filled with photographs and illustrations that are both revealing and instructive, this volume is a must have for local, county and state historical resources, dedicated toward the identification and preservation of America’s historic architecture.