The Brame-Bennett house of Clinton, Louisiana: a study of Greek Revival domestic architecture

The purpose of this study was to assemble a written and illustrated record of an outstanding example of Greek Revival domestic architecture. Specifically, the objectives of the study were (1) to record and preserve by means of written and photographic evidence one example of nineteenth century domestic architecture in East Feliciana Parish, (2) to determine the architectural stylistic influences present in the home studied, (3) to obtain historical data which may be used as a basis for understanding, appreciating, and interpreting this example of domestic architecture as a center of social life in the community, (4) to determine if an architect or professional builder was used :1,n the design or construction of the house, and (5) to determine an accurate data of origin for the house. The Brame-Bennett house of Clinton, Louisiana, was selected for study. Measured drawings were obtained and studied from the Library of Congress. Interior and exterior photographs were made and studied. A succession of ownership was made from available records in the East Feliciana Parish Clerk of Court's Office. A genealogical and historical search was made of David Davis. Family genealogies, cemetery and Bible inscriptions, and census returns were studied" Louisiana and Mississippi genealogical and historical societies were contacted. A search was made of all available records in the County Clerk's Offices in Amite and Wilkinson Counties, Mississippi. Manuscript collections and newspapers were studied. A study was made of the histories of East Feliciana Parish and Clinton, Louisiana. Secondary sources were used as references. iii iv The predominant stylistic influence present was that of the Greek Revival, but other influences can also be noted. These included: Roman, Revolution, Post-Revolution, and Victorian. Geographic, social, and economic influences were also evident in the design and construction of the house" It was determined that the house was in all probability built for use in the winter months when social activity was at its height. It is probable that the house was a center of entertainment and social activity in the town. The author was unable to determine if an architect or professional builder was responsible for the design and construction of the house. It can be assumed that professional advice was obtained either from an architect or from builder's guidebooks. It was determined that construction was begun on the house between 1839 and 1842 by the owner David Davis, but was not completed until after the sale of the house in 1842.