America's Historic Architecture

Most of you in English 102 probably don't know me, but for those who do...you probably don't know much about me. How that's for confusing? :). Let me reveal to you all my No.1 obsession: old houses.You may be thinking to yourself, what's so appealing about old houses? Heck, what's so appealing about houses in general? Everything! :).My two favorite styles of houses are Victorian Second Empire and Colonial. Greek Revival would be a third. Although when it boils down to it...Victorian is my favorite style. There's something so flamboyant and meticulous about Victorian style homes. Second Empire homes usually have a 2 or 3-story turret, a mansard roof and a widow's walk. To some of you I know I might as well be speaking Latin, but hang in there!One of the draws of old houses for me is woodwork: millwork, fretwork, newel posts, banisters, crown molding, wainscoting and pocket doors.Another draw for me is character. They tell a story that newer homes cannot. My parents home was built in 1956...which to me is new. The house of my dreams would be built between the 1600 to mid-1800's. Yes, I'll admit, I would be overjoyed to have a house that is over 300-years-old. The older the better! When you step into an old house you're instantly transported to a bygone era. Which is so eloquently portrayed by the historic touches of the home. You can learn about how people lived back then. Each scuff mark on wide plank floors, each ceiling medallion and other ornamental features tell of a time when builders put in many hours into small details. That to me, is the true character of older homes.I've always had a taste for all things old. I love old Mustangs, old country music (from the 90's) and I also love photographing abandoned farms. One of my dream vacations is to go to New England. After all, that's where most of America's old houses are. Salem, Massachusettes has the highest concentration of 17th Century homes.I should warn everyone now, i have a tendency to write long blogs. Writing has always been the one thing that comes the easiest to me. :). If you are reading this and live in a old house, drop me a note! Is anyone else out there that loves old houses?