Journal of the American Institute of Architects, January 1913
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS Volume 1 JANUARY, 1913 Number 1 CONTENTS Page [NTRODUCTION ‚ we wt ce ©. — x ^ He we ah ve —— € : THe Tarsney ÁCT : : ; | А à : ; Eu sw 35 CoLoR As ÁPPLIED TO ÁRCHITECTURE . Е : Sir Alfred East 8 (From R. I. B. A. JOURNAL) THE LINCOLN MEMORIAL . : i А : , Я i . 17 LETTERS FROM THOMAS JEFFERSON AND WILLIAM THORNTON ON THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA . А : : ; А А "E PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF THE OCTAGON PROPERTY Я а . 29 INSTITUTE BUSINESS: | | Executive Committee Meeting А V de Ж : , . 32 Committee Reports : А , ; я ; , ; . 33 CHAPTER NOTES ө e e е e . е l e И ө. ° | е 37 COMMUNICATIONS e. e. e ° e. е е | e ‚© , | e. . 47 News ITEMS e e e e e e e e ө · ә FI ө 50 Book REVIEWS . : : : . а кз жох . 54 INDEX TO PERIODICAL LITERATURE R : | : . : . Vil PLATES 1. Vicrory-PEAcE, Augustus Saint-Gaudens 2. LINCOLN MEMORIAL 3,4. THE OCTAGON Published Monthly by THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS OFFICES: THE OCTAGON, WASHINGTON, D. C. i Committee on Publication | | FRANK C. BALDWIN, Chairman GLENN BROWN CHARLES L, Borie, Jn. Address all communications relating to advertisements to R. M. Hooker, Business Manager, 168 Duane Street, New York 50 CENTS A COPY. $5 PER YEAR Copyright, 1913, by the American Institute of Architects. Application for entry as second-class matter at mene | Post Office at Harrisburg, Pa.
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THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS THE OCTAGON, WASHINGTON, D. C. OFFICERS FOR 1912 President e e e. First Vice-Presideni Second Vice-President Secretary and Treasurer è BOARD OF For One Year Cass GILBERT, 11 East 24th Street, New York, N. Y. RALPH ADAMS Cram, 15 Beacon St., Boston, Mass. Jonn С. HowanRp, 604 Mission St., San Francisco, Cal. For Two Years Ad Rosenuem, 615 Н. W. Hellman Bldg., Los Angeles, Tuomas R. KIMBALL, McCague Building, Omaha, Neb. 1it Mitton B. Mepary, JR., 139 So. Fifteenth St., Phila- delphia, Pa. . WALTER Cook, New York, N. Y. R. Сирѕтом Sturcis, Boston, Mass. FRANK C. Batpwin, Washington, D. C Grenn Brown, Washington, D. C DIRECTORS For Three Years InviNc К. Ponp, Steinway Hall, Chicago, lll. JOHN M. Donacopson, Penobscot Building, Detroit, Mich. EDWARD A. CRANE, 1012 Walnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. Auditors ROBERT STEAD, 906 F Street, Washington, D. C. THOMAS J. D. Fuccer, 806 Seventeenth St., Washington, LIST OF CHAPTERS OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS, 1912 The Year Indicates the Date of the Chapter's Organization. ATLANTA CHAPTER, 1906.— President Haralson Bleckley, 619 Empire Building, Atlanta, Ga. Secretary, Miss H. C. Dozier, 7 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, Georgia. BALTIMORE CHAPTER, 1870.—President, J. B. Nocl Wyatt, 207 East German Street, Baltimore, Md. Secretary, Thos. C. Kennedy, 211 N. Calvert Street, Baltimore, Md. Boston CHAPTER, 1870.—President, R. Clipston Sturgis, 120 Boylston Street, Boston, Mass. Secretary, Charles N. Cogswell, Old South Building, Boston, Mass. BROOKLYN CHAPTER, 1894.— President, Woodruff Leem- ing, 20 Broad Street, New York, N. Y. Secretary, Dudley McGrath, 175 Fifth Avenue, New York, N. Y. BUFFALO CHAPTER, 1890.—President, Edward B. Green, 110 Franklin Street, Buffalo, N. Y. Secretary, Ellicott R. Colson, 35 Dun Building, Buffalo, N. Y. CENTRAL New YORK CHAPTER, 1887 (former Western New York Chapter).—President, Albert L. Brockway, Savings Bank Building, Syracuse, N. Y. Secretary, F. W. Revels, Syracuse University, Syracuse, N. Y CINCINNATI CHAPTER, 1870.—President, Rudolph Tietig, Lyric Building, Cincinnati, Ohio. Secretary, John Zettel, 608 Johnston Building, Cincinnati, Ohio. CLEVELAND CHAPTER, 1890.— President, F. S. Barnum, 1812 E. toth Street, Cleveland, Ohio. Secretary, G. B. Bohm, Williamson Building, Cleveland, Ohio. COLORADO CHAPTER, 1892 —President, Maurice B. Biscoe, Mining Exchange Building, Denver, Col. Secretary, F. E. Mountjoy, Chamber of Commerce Bldg., Denver, Col. Connecticut CHAPTER, 1902.— President, Wm. E. Hunt, Waterbury, Conn. Secretary, Louis A. Walsh, Law Chamber, Waterbury, Conn. Dayton CHAPTER, 1889.—President, Robert E. Dexter, Canby Building, Dayton, Ohio. Secretary, Harry J. Williams, 591 Arcade Building, Dayton, Ohio. [Lr1Nois CHAPTER, 1869.— President, Elmer C. Jensen, 171 A Salle Street, Chicago, 11. Secretary, Henry Webster Tomlinson, 64 E. Van Buren Street, Chicago, III. INDIANA CHAPTER, 1910 (formerly Indianapolis Chapter, 1887).—President, Rolland Adelsperger, South Bend, Ind. Secretary, Herbert W. Foltz, Indiana Pythian Building, Indianapolis, Ind. lowa CHAPTER, 1903.—President, Frank E. Wetherell, 202 Youngerman Building, Des Moines, lowa. Secre- tary, Eugene H. Taylor, 222 South Third Street, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Kansas City CHAPTER, 1800. кендеп; Benjamin J. Lubschez, 200 Reliance Building, Kansas City, Mo. Secretary, Adriance Van Brunt, 200 Reliance Building, Kansas City, Mo. Acting Secretary, Chas. H. Payson, 713 Scarrett Building, Kansas City, Mo. Louisiana CHAPTER, 1910.— President, Allison Owen, (s Saale Building, New Orleans, La. p led A S. S. та uisse, 817 Hibernia Bank Building, New Orleans, LOUISVILLE CHAPTER, 1008.—President, Mason Maury, Board of Trade Building, Louisville, Ky. Secretary, Val. P. Collins, Paul Jones Building, Louisville, Ky. MICHIGAN CHAPTER, 1887.—President, John Scott, Ford Building, Detroit, Mich. Secretary, Marcus R. Bur- rowes, 701 Trussed Concrete Building, Detroit, Mich. MINNESOTA CHAPTER, 1892.—President, Wm. Channing Whitney, HE Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis, Minn. Secretary, win H. Brown, Minncapolis, Minn. New JERSEY CHAPTER, 1900.— President, Hugh Roberts, 1 Exchange Place, Jersey City, N. J. Secretary, Chas. P. Gilbert, 35 Clinton St., Newark, N. J. New York CHAPTER, 1867.— President, C. Grant La Farge, 25 Madison Square, North, New York, N. Y. Secretary, Felon Swartwout, 244 Fifth Avenue, New York. OREGON CHAPTER, 1911.—President, Ellis F. Lawrence, Chamber of Commerce Building, Portland, Ore. Secre- tary, Frank Logan, 1000 Chamber of Commerce Build- ing, Portland, Ore. PHILADELPHIA CHAPTER, 1869.— President, John Hall Rankin, 1012 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa. Secre- tary, Horace Wells Sellers, 1307 Stephen Girard Build- ing, Philadelphia, Pa. PITTSBURGH CHAPTER, 1891 еу W. Pa. Chapter).— President, O. M. Topp, Jenkins Building, Pittsburgh, Pa. Secretary, Richard Hooker, Farmers’ Bank Build- ing, Pittsburgh, Pa. RHODE ISLAND CHAPTER, 1870.— President, Norman M. Isham, 1013 Grosvenor Building, Providence, R. I. Secretary, John Hutchins Cady, 10 Weybosset Street, Providence, Rhode Island. SAN Francisco CHAPTER, 1881.— President, С. B. McDou- gall, 235 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, Cal. Secre- tary, Sylvain Schnaittacher, First National Bank Build- ing, San Francisco, Cal. SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CHAPTER, 1894.— President, John C. Austin, Wright and Callender Building, Los Angeles, Cal. Secretary, Fernand Parmentier, Byrne Building, Los Angeles, Cal. SOUTHERN PENNSYLVANIA CHAPTER, 1909.—President, John A. Dempwolf, York, Pa. Secretary, M. I. Kast, 222 Market Street, Harrisburg, Pa. St. Louris CHAPTER, 1890.— President, E. C. Klipstein, Chemical Building, St. Louis, Mo. Secretary, Wm. H Gruen, Chemical Building, St. Louis, Mo. WASHINGTON CHAPTER, 1887.—President, Thomas J. D. Fuller, 806 Seventeenth Street, Washington, D. C. Secretary, Ward Brown, 1725 H Street, Washington, D. C. WASHINGTON STATE CHAPTER, 1894.— President, W. R. B. Wilcox, 721 Central norae Seattle, Wash. Secretary, Chas. H. Alden, Crary Building, Seattle, Wash. Wisconsin CHAPTER, 1911.— President, Armond D. Koch, Wells Building, Milwaukee, Wis. Secretary, Henry J. Rotier, 813 Goldsmith Building, Milwaukee, Wis. WorcESTER CHAPTER, 1892.—President, Stephen С. Earle, 339 Main Street, Worcester, Mass. Secretary, Lucius Ww. Briggs, 390 Main Street, Worcester, Mass -— — ood
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NIKE-EIRENE The figure of Victory-Peace wbicb Augustus Saint-Gaudens de- signed to typify tbe spirit of the marcb through tbe South, in bis great equestrian statue to Sherman, moves, always forward, calmly, irresistibly, victoriously, witbout malice, to final peace. The grace, beauty, dignity and living forward movement of this figure bave not been excelled by tbe sculpture of ancient or modern times. The figure, detacbed from tbe group, was placed at tbe bead of tbe imposing stairway in tbe Corcoran Gallery of Art, with a background of tapestries and flanked by tall cedars, during tbe memorial meeting to Saint-Gaudens, December, 1908, when tbe American Institute of Architects installed a collection of one bundred and fifty pieces of bis sculpture. Entering the doorway, one could not resist tbe feeling that the figure was moving, stately, gracefully, to meet tbe guest, offering tbe palm of peace, in anticipation of tbe. spiritual and mental pleasure to be enjoyed in studying the great sculptor’s work.
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OR TARTE O мл „е e er 4. GE E , NT. Ss WA "7 Cou NBI HR MW ВАА e ^ pu x P РРР Нче чч ИИ ود T i М | 1 p Te se чон > - €. "um d. Victory-Peace. Augustus Saint-Gaudens, Sculptor Installed in the Corcoran Gallery for the Memorial Meeting of the A. I. A., in Memory of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, December, 1908 -
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS Vol. ] JANUARY, 1913 No. 1 INTRODUCTORY A hey have 5, as well as laymen, may be justly pardoned if they have failed to realize the wide extent of influence which has been exerted in recent years by the American Institute of Architects, not only in matters relating to the betterment of the con- ditions which govern the practice of Architecture, but also in the devel- opment of ideals for the conservation of the safety, health and comfort of the public. This failure to realize may be easily explained by the fact that the work of the Institute, in its attempts to elevate the stand- ards of design and construction in buildings, to procure better build- ing laws, to guide in the planning for the future development of our cities, and in the many other directions in which its efforts have been expended, has been, in the majority of instances, performed by groups of its members, who have given unselfishly of their time and service and performed the work of the moment without thought of personal recognition or reward. As is usually true in such cases, the value of the accomplishment for the public weal cannot be measured. It is equally true that, if the benefits resulting from these activities have been great, they would have been immeasurably greater had it been possible to acquaint the profession and the public with the various steps, the underlying thought, the arguments pro and con, which have culminated in or influenced subsequent definite action by the Institute. The directors of the Institute have long realized that the problems of vital interest which are, from time to time, brought forward for consideration could be treated with a greater hope of proper and suc- cessful solution, if they could receive the benefit of a more widespread discussion at the immediate tjme when such consideration would be of most value. It has also been felt that the Chapters of the Institute 5
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS and other members of the profession would welcome a frequent and an intimate interchange of authentic news items relating to the progress of development in the field of Architecture. With these aims in view, and in the belief that its existence will offer a service not hitherto found in the field of professional magazines, the JouRNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS is herewith presented. TARSNEY ACT A ns twenty years ago, through the efforts of the American Institute of Architects, the Tarsney Act was passed, empower- ing the Secretary of the Treasury Department to secure designs, by competition, from the best architects in the United States, for Government Buildings. The Institute urged the passage of this Act because the character of buildings erected by the Government fell far below the character of buildings erected under private architects, the Government, instead of leading in good design, as an example, and as a means of cultivation for the people, was by its example debasing the taste of the citizen. Since the passage of this Act the Government has secured designs from many of the talented men in the United States, and its work now offers a high standard, which has been the means of raising the standard in State and Municipal work throughout the country, all through the effect of the Tarsney Act. This year the House of Representatives, in formulating the Sundry Civil Bill, introduced a clause in this great appropriation budget of a few sentences repealing the Tarsney Act. The repeal of this law will produce a degrading effect upon the architecture of the United States, and it is difficult to understand why Congress repealed a law which has accomplished so much in the way of public culture. We understand the reason for this step was supposed economy, based on a report, made in the Supervising Architect’s office, which by taking only one favorable year in the Supervising Architect’s office, makes the work of that office cost only 6.84 per cent, while they claim that private architects, under the Tarsney Act, cost the Government 8 per cent on the expenditures. When we take the reports of six years 6
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TARSNEY ACT from the Supervising Architect’s office, the only reasonable way to arrive at an average with buildings which take four or five years to erect, we find that architectural services in the Supervising Architect's office have cost 1114 per cent. | From these reports we find the Government has saved 314 per cent on the cost of over $26,000,000 expended during the past twenty years by employing private architects. Simply comparing these reports of six years, Congress can readily satisfy itself that it is an economy as well as a means of cultivation for the people to retain the Tarsney Act. Another reason given for repealing this Act is a certain amount of friction over one or two of the buildings erected, under private archi- tects, in which additions increased the size and cost of buildings over the first amount appropriated. This was not due in any way to the private architects, but to the communities where the buildings were to be erected demanding and receiving from Congress larger appropriations for the increased accommodations which were required. By examining the records of the Supervising Architect’s office, it will be found that the increase in size and character of structures, under the Supervising Architect’s office, is as frequent as it 1s on build- ings designed by private architects. It depends upon the communities which demand such increase from Congress, and the judgment of Con- gress whether such increases are reasonable. Not only architects, only a few of whom are personally interested in the Tarsney Act, but the whole commuity should resent this repeal of a law which has accomplished so much for the advancement of the nation in well-designed buildings.
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COLOR AS APPLIED TO ARCHITECTURE* BY SIR ALFRED EAST Р | “НЕ Application of Color to Architecture may open out chan- nels to thought in which there may be a wide divergence of opinion, and it is the object of the writer to call forth those expressions of opinion which may be useful in the practical experi- ence of those who have the control of such an application. The question of the actual color of materials used in construction is a very interesting one, and one that is especially interesting today, when rapid and economic conditions make it possible for the architect to draw upon the resources of the world for his material. Therefore, in the light of these new conditions, the question assumes a greater sig- nificance than at any previous time; and with greater liberty in the use of material, a greater danger of its abuse naturally follows. In the past, when the conditions of transit were more difficult, the builder more frequently used the material he found close at hand. It was cheaper, and he avoided the delay which very primitive means of transit imposed upon him. These difficulties were not їп any case a drawback, because he often obtained a feeling of breadth and sim- plicity of color which the modern builder, with his great facility of obtaining foreign materials, misses. The former was more likely to express himself, and so express the feeling of his time, than his modern confrere, who, with the greater choice, might fall into the temptation of selecting some which, although beautiful in themselves, might be unfit and even base when used for the purposes of his building. It must be remembered that, apart from the principle of scale and other qualities of architecture, the art of retaining the peculiar quality of the material is one of great importance. One cannot accept the imitation of stone, no matter how well done, as convincing as the mental assurance of the characteristics of stone, any more than one can accept the surface painting which imitates marble as equal to the marble itself. "Therefore, if the architect wilfully selects the color of his materials regardless of the claims of position, without taking into consideration the demand made upon him for the consideration of site, or if he ignores all that is peculiar to our national expression, then * From the R. I. B. A. Journal. 8
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COLOR AS APPLIED TO ARCHITECTURE I think he is not strong enough to be entrusted with the responsibili- ties of his greater freedom. | venture to think that the architect who works within the limit marked out for him by local conditions, and succeeds, is in a stronger artistic position than he who, having so large a choice, fails by being too generous. [t is surely a greater thing to rouse the feeling of abso- lute satisfaction by working within the lines that are imperative, and to succeed within those lines, than to ignore them; as, for example, the poet who satisfies you perfectly in.the selection of some convention, such as the sonnet form, in which one feels he does not require a line more or less with which to express himself; or the painter who so dis- plays his form and color upon his canvas that one does not wish to add an inch or subtract one from its area. Still less is decoration gov- erned by the conditions I have spoken of; and still more does this great question rest in the hands of the architect who takes upon him- self a further and greater responsibility. We have examples of work done by artists who were foreign to the sentiment of the people in whose midst the building had been erected; and we find that in many instances the work so done does not, and cannot, embody either the particular and personal feeling of the architect, or carry on the national artistic spirit. It is unreasonable to expect that any foreign artist could at once be imbued with the same spirit as that which animates the architect who is and should be governed by those peculiar qual- ities which have formed our school; for the architect, like the painter or poet, expresses an idea in a manner which has been formed by his education and environment. And as no practice of technique can be of any particular nationality—for, like science, technique has no national characteristics—it is its application whereby it is used to express the thought and feeling of the man, and it is in that application that art is national. But the closer consideration of these causes, these influences, although they are of the deepest interest, lies outside the object of my paper tonight. It is interesting to note any building which thoroughly expresses the purpose of its existence. If it is embellished and decorated so that the decoration is the expression of its own time and environment as much as the building itself, it adds to the sense of satisfaction that the building is a completed work; it would convey to one the idea that the 9
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS same mental outlook pervaded the whole, and that the accomplishment as a whole was eminently satisfactory. The architect 15, or should be, responsible for the absolute com- pletion of any public building, and it is unfair to criticise him if some local authority assumes the responsibility of its decoration. We know the difficulties which surround this question. It may be that the painter does not interest himself sufficiently, and has not been able to identify himself thoroughly, with the aims of the architect; or that the architect approaches the question of decoration with precon- ceived ideas engendered by examples of the past, which may be in themselves very beautiful, but totally unfitted for the purpose he has before him. And he may not pay that attention, or give the special art of the painter that consideration, in the conception of his design which might help him in the realization of his arm, and which would possibly result in a finer and a more complete work of art. It would be a great step on the way to obtain a perfect and completed scheme if the architect and the painter were brought into more intimate con- tact, and, by the interchange of ideas, to help each other to under- stand the peculiar claims of their individual crafts. I would not claim that the architect should necessarily be instructed in the technical qualities of the various methods of painting; nor can it be expected that the painter should make himself acquainted with the constructive side of architecture; but a knowledge of each of their aims should be mutually understood. It is to be accepted that the sincere architect desires this mutual understanding, and that, if the building is to be a monument of his own ability, and also ап. expression of the art of his day, he should lose no opportunity in taking advantage of anything and everything that he considers would exalt his work and make it worthy of himself and of his time. Every man who works in this spirit feels that there is a serious responsibility placed upon his shoulders. He should feel that the great traditions of architecture he has received should not be avoided or abused. He cannot be so presumptuous as to believe that he is able to abandon them or to substitute for them any new order of his own. He should feel that he must work in the spirit of these traditions, and adapt them to the requirements of his own purpose. This is more important to him than it is to the painter, for the painter has not committed himself in so large a measure in such то
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COLOR AS APPLIED TO ARCHITECTURE imperishable materials as the architect. The work of the painter can be put away and hidden out of sight; and it is only when in collabora- tion with the architect that his work assumes a monumental character, as forming part of a scheme of a permanent building. It is a source of the greatest satisfaction to see that during the last generation the architect has taken the sculptor more thoroughly into his confidence, and I should like to see the same confidence extended to the painter. For I am under the impression that the place of the mural painting should have been considered by the architect in the creation of his plan, as much as that of the sculptor; neither is required for the actual structural qualities of the building, but both are a necessity for its perfect completeness. I do not think anyone would dispute the assertion that the noblest work of man is the combination of all the arts in perfect fitness; the combination of these arts into a building that would be devoted to, and best adapted for, the expression of the other arts of music or literature. Such a building would not be alto- gether dominated by the architect, to the exclusion of the sculpture and painting, but would be one that in its completeness was perfectly adapted to the purpose of its creation. Unfortunately, the opportunity of so expressing the unity of the arts is rare; but one such building in any country would mark it as exhibiting the highest understanding of the real purpose of art. I have spoken of the authority of the architect hitherto because I believe that in all public buildings he should be held responsible for their entire completion; but what shall I say to the architect who designs a private house in which he leaves no place either for sculpture or painting? I think one of the causes of the decline in the purchase of easel pictures arises from the fact that neither the architect nor the the commercial decorator ever considers that it is possible for the cultured man to be interested in the arts of painting and sculpture. This custom of “turning out" by the architect of a home ready for occupation may be considered as going outside his province, for he claims an independence for himself which he denies to his client. The dwelling-house should be a place that is absolutely in sympathy with the dweller, it should reffect his peculiar character and pursuits, and we resent the intrusion of the architect or anyone who would in any way destroy that intimate relation.
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS . The fitness of color for decorative purpose is a question that has never been adjusted by any rule except that rule which is applied equally to the architect and sculptor. The first and most important is the sense of scale. We find in many decorated public buildings that the color scheme may be satisfactory as a scheme, but that the areas of the different colors employed are not in keeping with scale of the building. As I have said before, it is the duty of the decorator to work within the conditions laid down by the architect, and the fact that he has done so is itself an artistic expression. But a responsibility rests sometimes with the architect, who may not have considered the space suitable for the work of the painter or sculptor in his design. The great problem of the application of color to decoration had been solved in some instances with success; and in every case that success has been achieved by the perfect sympathy of those concerned in its production. The painter may spoil the work of the architect if there be not that sympathy. For instance, he may have his scale too large, the result being to diminish the dignity of the building. If, on the contrary, his scale be too small, the raison d'etre of the painting is not secured. This sense of proportion ts the first quality the painter has to establish. It is difficult to speak of color, since colors bear no definite names. Do not consider it as color alone—for color is entirely altered in its decorative quality by the shapes and sizes of its display. A certain arrangement of color of certain sizes їп conjunction may completely destroy the object of the architect, and yet the same series with a different arrangement may be perfectly satisfactory. The value of color as a medium of decoration may be considered from this point of view, and another important point is that the forms selected for its display should be such as will best express its peculiar value; thus, it is obvious that any color expressed in angular forms must convey a different decorative sense from the same color displayed by rounded forms. Herein lies a very subtle problem for the decorator, and one that has not hitherto been considered in its fullest significance. We must describe color by a form, for color cannot be expressed without form. All form is expressed by the figures of the straight line and the curve; it necessarily follows that nothing can be expressed without them; it is in the difference of these figures in conjunction that the various 12
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COLOR AS APPLIED TO ARCHITECTURE orders of architecture or design have their origin. Nothing can be expressed without them, but within the possibilities of their variation lies a field that no man has exhausted. We have accepted the con- junction which expresses various orders of architecture, and have accepted such orders as standards because they are governed by con- ditions created by their own demands; we have associated the con- junction of straight lines, the simplest figure possible having the triangle as a symbol, not only because it is the simplest figure possible in the use of lines, but because it is suggestive of something which lies outside, and points to the outside and beyond. The curve, on the contrary, completes its figure alone; the circle it describes is associated with completed things, and is materialistic. The incomplete always sug- gests possibilities; the complete is final. Bearing in mind the associa- tion with these primitive figures, we at once see their influence upon architecture. Thus the Greek expressed the intellectually of the right angle which suggested and is the dominant figure of that order. Other orders gave us the more opulent feeling associated with the curve, and so became associated with the secular architecture, while the Gothic embraced the qualities of both the human feeling of the curve in conjunction with the angle. I quote these expressions of line and curve because I wish to suggest that m mural painting their associa- tion should be supported; and that the painter should not endanger the object he. has in view by selecting such forms as are totally unfit to express a conjunction of color or to support the mental impression aroused by the architecture. As I have said, he must not only dis- cover what form will best express each individual color, but be con- scious of the difference of effect of these forms when brought into con- junction. It can be readily understood that one color may be fine in quality alone, but, brought into contact with others, may be dis- cordant; not only that, but in their conjunction he may lose the peculiar value of an individual color by the dominancy of another in juxtaposi- tion. He may, if he be strong enough, so ennoble the building by the use of his forms of color that if in a Gothic church they may elevate the mind supporting the sentiment of the Gothic form, or if in a secu- lar building be so arranged as to express the wealth and dignity of the city whose history it represents. The question arises, naturally—what is the best form, the most 13
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS suitable form, by which we may display a particular color at its best? That is a difficult question to answer; and if it is a difficult one in a single instance, how much more difficult and complex does it become when there are several colors to be placed in conjunction and, after solving this problem, so far as color is concerned, we have then to con- sider if the conjunction of color we have accepted is such as will con- form to the special conditions of the building to be decorated. This 15 a difficulty, and one that may be presented to the painter with varying results, according to the conditions presented by each particular build- ing. He has to consider the masses and details of such a building to be decorated; his decoration should be so sensitive that it should sup- port not only the larger masses of the structure, but each detail by which the architect has himself embellished his structure. He must be as sensitive as the architect in sustaining the purpose of its being; he must not їп any way destroy or warp such an object; he has no right to take away the knowledge that there is a surface on which his painting is superimposed, or remove by some optical illusion any structural qual- ity of the building which is necessary for its support. АП these things he has to consider, and if he were a great decorator he would consider them; but if he be a victim of some local authority who dictates to him what he shall do or how he shall do it, then failure is certain. The full value of decoration is often marred by the intervention of some outside authority, who 15 frequently moved more by the object of illustrating the history of the town or church than by the consider- ations of fine decoration; and it is unfair both to the painter and the architect to have the ensemble spoiled by the insistence of the illus- tration of some incident that cannot conform to the purpose of decora- tion. The liberty extended to the painter is put to the test if he is obliged to accept the task of illustrating some period of local history; he may so arrange the contours and qualities of color that the decora- tive end may be secured. He ought to bear in mind that the carrying power of his composition should be such that it is seen at its best from a point of view that includes also the best point of view of the archi- tectural features which surround it. This is another problem, and one can concerve that, of two panels equally satisfactory as illustrating the interesting local history, one may be a help and another a hindrance to the feeling of completion which all decoration is designed to obtain. 14
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COLOR AS APPLIED TO ARCHITECTURE We have considered the importance of selecting the forms which will best display the color, and that these forms of different contours and of different quantities should be such that their influence upon each other should be just. We can imagine a design for a decoration in which the dominant color be displayed on account of considerations of the subject. He has then to consider the problems from another point of view—he may have so to arrange his colors by their juxtaposi- tion that he may be able to convey the impression that the dominant note is sustained. We find that in some of the works of Turner, who had a sensitive appreciation of the decorative arrangement of his material (which, in the language of the painter, is called good composition), he sometimes makes a very curious and interesting departure from the literal truth of nature to obtain a greater expression of it. [n some cases, when he has not been able to give a sufficiently large area to balance his composition, he has placed a point of smaller dimensions with increased strength, and so, by that means, a sense of complete- ness is obtained. This fact may be useful to the decorator. The weight or intensity of color should be also just of that strength that helps the purpose. The opposite situation is often revealed in the work of today. I have pointed out the difficulties of the mural painter; and where the building has no history to record on its walls, but reserves its history for its literature, he might be asked if it were not possible to satisfy the claims of the architect if he substituted decorative land- scape in place of the illustration of an incident. It would give the painter a wider scope for a more personal expression, and he would be free from conditions that so often make decoration a failure, for his materials are more at his discretion, both in form and color; and, if he succeeds, he will not fall into the difficulty of attracting unduly the attention of the spectator from the beauty of the architecture. I have known decorations which would, by their dominancy, suggest that the whole effort of the architect was to furnish him with a setting for his picture; whereas it should be considered from an entirely opposite point of view. And, in conclusion, I would appeal to those who have the responsibility of designing a great public building to bear in mind the conditions which must govern the mural painter; and, on the other hand, to the mural painter to consider that the architect has a right to expect that he should be supported in his architectural ideal. 15
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а eee 22-5 aaea сы 2 ш THE LINCOLN MEMORIAL HE American Institute of Architects in 1902 strongly approved the Park Commission Scheme for the development of Wash- ington City. The location of the Lincoln Memorial, one of three monuments to our three greatest men, Is one of the important elements in this plan, which ш combina- tion makes a won- derful architectural composition. For the past ten years the Institute has stood firmly for the loca- tion of this memorial as suggested by the Park Commission, and exerted its efforts to prevent the me- morial being placed on any of the sites not in accord with the general develop- ment of the city or Entrance Facing the Washington Monument 17
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS the selection of a site for a memorial to Lincoln lacking prominence or dignity. In this way the Institute has found її necessary strenuously to oppose placing the Lincoln Memorial on the plaza for the com- pletion of the Union Station design, on the Sixteenth Street Hill for the local beautification of that part of the city, on the Soldiers’ Home site and in Arlington to gratify some members of the Grand Army. Although we have been actively urging its authoritative location on the Mall, this most desirable conclusion is still unsettled. PSY axle Le MES шши: Ыы ШЩШЩИ Н , sheet а ee авы S © e * Z "n "al: г, ri І >. L A - (> j т, à et А 3 А * [4 .. ۶ г LI t „т. { 1 i <. Я aa | « ў ÉD a, m 1 ^ 5E · T Au B < 5 by 1 س А d i E 3 JE 2 : П 29 =o 1 3 A 2 coe d М 1 P É i n #2: -— تا m AES "mem Х тл om T - - Vm : i m 1 m П ө ч ыз лыш. ИНИНЕН ЕТЕНЕ НОВИЗНИ A Scale {с ——— cae TL 25 9 ас Mme | PLAN OF LINCOLN MEMORIAL | K OY Peet | A *- Е a cm ne he . —— В е == — TEMAS м + ane А j Congress appointed a Commission to select a site and a design for the Lincoln Memorial, subject to the final approval of Congress. The Congressional Commission referred the selection of the site to the Fine Arts Commission. The Fine Arts Commission studied the whole prob- lem, considering drawings of all sites, including the Union Station, the Soldiers’ Home, the Sixteenth Street Hill, Arlington, and the Mall site. They reported that the Mall site was the only site suitable for 18
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THE LINCOLN MEMORIAL a memorial to Lincoln. The Congressional Commission, of which Presi- dent Taft is chairman, after receiving their report and investigating the subject them- selves, approved the finding of the Fine Arts Commission. In making this approval, they con- sidered plans by Mr. John Russell Pope for the Sixteenth Street and the Sol- diers’ Home sites, D. H. Burnham & Co., and we under- stand Carrére and Hastings and Elliott Wood for the Union Station site. As the Congressional Com- mission had deter- mined upon the Mall site, they authorized Mr. John Russell Pope, in competition with Mr. Henry Bacon, to make designs for the Mall site. Mr. Henry Bacon's design, in harmony with and on the [ines suggested by the Park Commission, has finally been approved by the Fine Arts Commission and the Congressional Commis- sion and it is hoped it will soon be presented to Congress for final action. It appears, after this careful study both by experts and officials, that the question should without doubt be settled satisfactorily; but there is a strong element in Congress which is determined to transfer this appropriation of $2,000,000 to building a roadway to Gettysburg as a memorial to Lincoln. The Institute is the only organization that has been persistently exerting its efforts for the proposed development of the National Capital, and it has opposed this transfer of the appropriation on the grounds that a roadway to Gettysburg, which would cost $2,000,000, would be I9 Looking to the Washington Monument
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS nothing more than an ordinary highway, and the Government would have no control over it as to the kind of houses, resorts, and such places as would line at least a ponen of this roadway, making it unfit for a dignified | memorial to Abraham Lincoln. Careful estimates show that an appro- priate memorial road would cost $25,000,- 000 to $30,000,000. The Institute considers the most beautiful roadway lacking in the indi- viduality and cen- tralization so neces- sary in a memorial, and which can only be obtained in a single structure. This question will be before Congress for its final decision as soon as the Congressional Commission reports. Every architect should use his influence to see that Congress does not take this backward step nor fail to produce such a memorial as will be a tribute to the name of the man who preserved the Union. Tablet Showing Lincoln's Gettysburg Speech Ум тесей! i: 1 f е 95 н bap * ah, ^" е! Ein 5 5 Or: Ze Be dox. j A mo^. М. += 4| f к; an^ — = hl i HH i w la 1 EI! | P Tes ~ б i hE nA . pud 5 Ba Ха» ASR SE" 1. 4 : 1 ONS " ре, PE uper gie natns mm aig rie : MER CE I |, ae 3 L ; у 020 20 ИТИ Google
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LETTERS FROM THOMAS JEFFERSON AND WILLIAM THORNTON, ARCHITECT, RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA HE following original letter from President Jefferson to William Thornton and his reply were found among manuscript material left by Mr. J. Henley Smith, grandson of Mrs. Thornton's executor. They prove that Jefferson, in his wisdom, sought the best obtainable architect in this work. Recently I have looked over the original drawings in custody of the University, and they are exactly the kind of drawings Thornton made for the Capitol, the Octagon, and other buildings, and from the descriptions in his letter I feel confident they are the drawings he sent Jefferson. After a careful examination of the drawings I found nothing to indicate that Jefferson claimed the design. Notes on the back referring to material and workmanship were in his handwriting. GLENN BROWN MONTICELLO, May 9, ' 17. Dear Sir: Your favor of Apr. 18 was duly received, and the two drawings were delivered here by Mr. & Mrs. Madison in perfect good order. With respect tó Ceracchi's bust, any artist whom you may dispose to do so shall be welcome to come and make a cast of plaister from it, we have always plaister at hand. | We are commencing here the establishment of a college, and instead of building a magnificent house, which would exhaust all our funds, we propose to lay off a square of about 7 or 800 f. on the outside of which we shall arrange separate pavilions, one for each professor and his scholars. Each pavilion will have a schoolroom below and 2 rooms for the Professor above and between pavilion and pavilion a range of dormitories for the boys, one story high, giving to each a room 1o f. wide & 14 f. deep. The pavilions about 36 f. wide in front, and of 24 f. in depth. This sketch will give you an idea of it.* *See reproduction of letter. 21
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS The whole of the pavilions and dormitories to be united by a colon- nade in front of the height of the lower story of the pavilions, under which they may go dry from school to school. The colonnade will be of square brick pilasters (at first) with a Tuscan entablature. Now what we wish is that these pavilions, as they will show themselves above the dormitories, shall be models of taste & good architecture, & of a variety of appearance, no two alike, so as to serve as specimens for the Architec- Hear Bes ronde Jna 9-17 e... 2% Я Yow facror y lpr L E "e f 2? qarne! t rear Aa tole ф تو ر dix? 9 ہارمہ Ù be male by a :ممع от de 22d trent gha А2 ل Sha foe hu) j^. fontem Lorre, m sh Her ттеу 7° any er sheet G shoot fhe »مج جاع wilt be jr (мА prs Caton , Laora 2 ‘at fart) aha Tamam "md ví 4—4 or «+ Mad er AN ^ $ | ona brus, that! be paale J #444 s+ ma Hg با thems Mams slaer o Lowe Ma der А i E. | — күши ر wert, dj appro bow abite, and | "we à 25 ~ ^ the РУ ЖЕК Г УЕ tn ye tal مو mg fpe ey exis | à vea Comm 1 d ra d x ulis qi Letter of Jefferson to Thornton tural lecturer. Will you set your imagination to work and sketch some designs for us? No matter how loosely with the pen, without the trouble of referring to scale or rule; for we want nothing but the outline of the architecture, as the internal must be arranged according to local convenience. A few sketches such as need not take you a moment will greatly oblige us. The visitors of the college are President Monroe, Mr. Madison, 3 others whom you do not know & myself. We have to struggle against two important wants—money and men for professors, capable of fulfilling our views. They may come in time, for all Europe 22
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LETTERS RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA seems to be breaking up. In the meantime help us to provide snug and handsome lodges for them. І salute you with friendship and respect. TH. JEFFERSON. City OF WASHINGTON, May 27, 1817. My dear Sir: I was very much gratified by hearing that the two drawings arrived safe, and am highly obligated to Mr. and Mrs. Madison for their kind attention to them. I return my particular thanks for your kind refer- ence in lending them to me, and I am also under great obligation for your further favor in granting me permission to employ an artist to take a cast of that superb Bust, which I think one of the finest I ever beheld. I shall not fail to seek for one that I hope will do justice to it, without injuring so invaluable a Specimen of the highest genius. It gives me great pleasure to find Virginia disposed to erect an extensive College, which must produce great effects by example. I was also pleased to see an acct. of the meeting of such distinguished Char- acters, as the three Presidents of the United States on so praiseworthy an occasion. How different to the meeting of the three emperors on the continent of Europe, after a bloody Battle! In asking my sketches, you flatter me highly, but I fear all I can do will fall very far short of what you expect: I will however freely communicate my ideas; because the most learned and ingenious may sometimes obtain hints from those of very inferior capacity, that may be deemed worthy of attention. I shall not confine myself merely to the buildings, but will take the liberty of suggesting whatever may strike my mind as I proceed. It is first necessary to consider the extent of the learning intended to be inculcated by the Institution, because the Masters, or Professors of the Sciences and the high grades of learning would require propor- tionate accommodation. Great and learned men would necessarily be considered as Gentlemen of high character and consideration, and would expect to be provided for accordingly. I therefore should con- sider two rooms for each as inadequate, especially if men of family:— but the two rooms are perhaps only intended as the college-rooms, and that each will have a Family-house, distinct from the college. If so, I proceed. The Halls would require to be large, if intended for lec- 23
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS turing rooms, and the upper story would be in better proportion as to height: they would also require to have accommodations for the apparatus, chymical, Philosophical, Mechanical, etc. However such accommodations as a university would require would not be neces- sary for a college. I have drawn only two specimens of the orders. You wish the Halls or Pavilions to contain the different orders of architecture, that they might serve hereafter as models. I admire everything that would tend to give chaste ideas of elegance and gran- deur. Accustomed to pure architecture, the mind would relish in time no other, and therefore the more pure the better. I have drawn a pavilion for the center, with corinthian Columns and a pediment. I would advise only the three orders; for I consider the composite as only a mixture of the Corinthian and Ionic; and the Tuscan as only a very clumsy Doric. Your general arrangement I admire, but would take the liberty of advising that the two buildings next the Angles be joined together, and be placed in the Angles. They would, of course, be in the ancient Ionic, that beautiful and chaste order. I thought it unnecessary to draw it, because you have only to connect the sketches already given into the Ionic, to have the effect. I would have only one pediment, and that in the center. If at any time it would be thought necessary to extend these buildings, they may very easily have additions at each side, without extending the colonnades, and the entablature would only have to be carried round. This would give a variety, and the side buildings would serve as a background or base to the projecting central parts of each. It is of great importance in Buildings, the extent of which cannot be fore- seen, to provide for such additions as may correspond, and finally tend rather to beautify and perfect, than to disfigure or deform the whole: and this plan of yours I think admirably calculated for almost indefinite extensions. The entablature of the Doric Pavilion may be enriched, and that to the dormitories may be plain. I have drawn columns in front of the Dormitory, and also square pillars, but the columns are not only handsomer but cheaper, being also more easily built, and less subject to accidental as well as willful injury. I have omitted the plinths, as they not only tend to shorten the columns, but increase the expense, interrupt the walk, and add not much to the beauty. I would make the Dormitories with shed roofs, that 24
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LETTERS RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA should commence at the top of the parapet. This would carry all the water to the outside, which would take away all appearances of a roof, and thereby add greatly to the beauty of the building. I advise that it be built of brick in the roughest manner, and plaistered over In imitation of freestone. Columns can be made in this way, most beautifully, as I have seen them done at Mr. Lewis's, near Mt. Vernon, where they have stood above twelve years, and I did not find a single crack or fissure. The bricks were made expressly for columnar work, and when they were to be plaistered, the brickwork was perfectly saturated with water, which prevented the plaister from drying too rapidly. The mortar was not laid on fresh. It was composed of two- thirds sharp, well-washed, fine white sand, and one-third well-slaked lime. I would mix these with Smith's Forge-water. I would also dissolve some vitriol of iron in the water for the ashlar Plaister, not only to increase the binding quality of the mortar, but also to give a fine yellow color—which on experiment you will find beautiful and cheap. All the plaistering should be tinctured in the same manner, for the plain ashlar work, yellow sand may be used with the lime, or yel- low ochre, which will give the same appearance; and the columns and Entablatures being white will produce a beautiful and delicate con- trast. I prefer a pale yellow to white for the general ground colour of a building, as it assimilates beautifully with the Trees, and general Tint of Nature; while white looks cold and glaring, and destroys the keeping. The caps and Bases of the columns ought to be of freestone; or they may be of artificial stone. This is to be had very cheap from Coade's Manufactory, in the Borough of London: or they may be made of pipe clay, with a little fine white sand, and a solution of Alka- Ime Salt; which will give a neat, but fine surface, when well burnt in a Potter's Kiln. I have tried this, and made very good artificial stone, made as durable as stone and cheaper than wood. Pateras Modillions etc. may be made in the same manner, if thought necessary hereafter, to enrich any particular part. I admire the general disposition and plan of this establishment, and, to obtain in perfection what is wanted, I would advise that the site be chosen in the woods, and clear out whatever is not wanted, clumping the most beautiful and thriving of the forest Trees, in handsome groves, and leaving straggling ones occasionally, by which Nature may be so artfully imitated, as to pro- 25
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS duce a perfect picture; and above all things, let such a place be selected, as, though it be a high and healthy table ground, will afford by a Tube from a higher Source a grand Fountain in the center of the college Square. This will be not only highly ornamental, but it will supply water in case of fire. If a rivulet could also be brought near, by digging a conduit, it might furnish a large basin or pond, which could be made of any required depth and size. This would do for the students to swim and dive in, during Summer, and to skait on during Winter. There ought also to be a Botanic Garden, as well as a culi- nary one. There ought to be extra grounds for the great Exercises; such as running, riding, archery, shooting with pistols, rifles, cannon. The military Exercises on horseback and foot. In the Roman Catholic Academy, in Georgetown, Ca., they have erected a Ball Alley, but I would allow no child’s-play. Let all the Exercises be such as would tend to make great and useful men; and the military exercises, fencing with the broad and small sword, boxing with mufflers, playing the single stick, jumping, wrestling, throwing javelin, and whatever tends to render men more atheletic, at the same time that it tends to perfect them in what may eventually be of use, ought only to be permitted, as sports in their leisure hours. Thus would I make men of active Bodies, as well as of extraordinary minds. I have written a general system of Education, which your great Predecessor Washington was pleased to approve. The outline I have before often mentioned. I recommended the establishment of primary-schools admitting all the children capable of learning, and to have a hundred students in each, at the Public Expense. After a few years study they would be subject to examination m Public, by the Trustees; ninety would be dropt, and ten out of the hundred should be taken at the Public Expense to the High Schools. These would also contain a hundred each, at the Pub- lic Expense; and if the Parents of any of the ninety should wish, at their own expense, to continue them, they would undergo a public Examination with the adopted children of the Republic, and some of them might be elected on the succeeding Examinations; for some time the faculties of the greatest geniuses are slow in development. On the 2nd examination, ten would again be chosen out of the hundred, and sent at the Public Expense to the Colleges, and in like manner ten out of the hundred chosen to be perfected in the great National University, 26
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LETTERS RELATING TO THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA in all that it 15 possible for man to teach; by which we might draw Newtons and Bacons from the backwoods; and produce in one age, by this sifting of genius, ability, and learning, more great characters, than the world ever possessed at any one time. I fear I shall tire your patience. I remain with the highest respect and consideration, etc., WILLIAM THORNTON. HON’BLE THOMAS JEFFERSON. 27
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œ y - h МА NOLON SYM ммс фе © HET ASAOH NODVLIO Чо SAHOLAMS Г 6173 KANONG 430413Q NNGAT NAITO m м * . Yo — س د — — реў desee. E - aw an o d Google
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ee A T ۰ v Ea а. Н д. А ТД rmm 5 ry 8 - i i í 4 кез зм! dee CE ИЕ РУТЕ ras cs Ro. E rud | x 4 3 z is Cy gor! 09 4 Ie es "ro OB мы [1 | x —_ Ф аа ij £^ yl à, 2 і О Оо ЖУУ К АИ СОЕ ооа еу ео “sewoe ү Cep aie i k; ez È ST SR eur RE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF THE OCTAGON PROPERTY HE American Institute of Architects purchased in December, 1911, the two lots 50 by 100 feet on the north of the present property, as they felt the necessity of having a meeting-hall in connection with their property, and knew the well-developed opinion that in this connection various National organizations desire to have offices in the Octagon. Glenn Brown and Bedford Brown were authorized to make pre- liminary studies for this purpose. The objects to be obtained in the proposed improvement were: offices, meeting hall, exhibition halls, and a banquet-room. Many studies were made to preserve the old stables, but it was found that they could not be used as offices, or as a lobby to the meet- ing-hall. The final solution which the architects think best is a simple treatment, reproducing the proportions of the two upper stories of the Octagon, with a recess in the angle giving the longest vista and making it a part of the garden. In this recess we may have statues representing sculpture, paint- ing, and architecture, and memorial tablets to our great men. The garden we consider a valuable asset, which is enlarged over the present garden by the addition of the stable yard. Ample space is provided beneath the meeting-room for a banquet-hall with reception-, hat-, and cloak-rooms. The new buildings are connected by closed colonnades with the 29
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PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF THE OCTAGON PROPERTY Octagon, suitable for exhibitions and showing only on the garden side. An alternate sketch is submitted with an open rotunda, to contain memorials to architects, instead of the open recess to the garden. This dome and its relations to the columns is taken from Thornton's drawings (the architect of the Octagon) for another dome which he designed. While these plans for the Octagon have not been finally adopted by the Board, members of the Board and members of the Institute have been consulted as the many sketches have been prepared. The studies made for the Octagon are presented in order that the members of the Institute may offer suggestions for or approval of the general scheme, and that a systematic effort may be made to secure the money to make the improvement. Suggestion for Domical Recess 3I
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INSTITUTE BUSINESS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING Held at the Century Club, New York, N. Y., October 10, 1912 Present: Messrs. Cook, Brown, Pond, Sturgis and Medary. The general program of the Convention was discussed, and the Secretary read letters from those accepting and declining to prepare papers or speak at the banquet. As the subject of Allied Arts is to be the principal topic of the Convention, the Secretary was directed to notify the Committee on Allied Arts of this fact, so that the Committee could utilize this in their efforts to attain unity and harmony between the branches of the Fine Arts. Mr. M. N. Cutter, who has been placing F.A.I.A. after his name, has never qualified as a member of the Institute; but, as he moved to Canada, the Secretary was instructed to con- sult the counsel of the Institute, and send a letter to the Royal Architectural Institute of Can- ada, informing them that he he is not a member of the Institute. An invitation to hold the Convention in San Francisco during the Panama-Pacific Inter- national Exposition was read, and action was deferred until some future meeting. The Secretary read a report from D. Everett Waid, on a conference held by his Committee in New York, May 20, with the National Association of Master Plumbers and the National Association of Steam aad Hot-Air Fitters. The report stated that, if the board approved, the Committee would be prepared to present the matter, briefly, to the Convention. The subject of contracts, general and specific, was discussed at some length in connection with the Competition Code. The subject of Chapter territory was discussed and, with the consent of those present, the matter was referred back to the Committee on Chapter Relations, for further consideration. It was the sense of the meeting that the rules should be so modified that the territorial limits of chapters would not prevent an architect becoming a member of the chapter-at-large if he lives at a distance from a Chapter center. An invitation to attend the meeting of the Iowa Chapter, November 8 and 9, at Keokuk, Iowa, was read, and the Secretary was instructed to extend the invitation to the Chapter Secretaries. The resignations of John I. Haynes and E. J. Molera were accepted. The question of the "Journal" and its advertising was discussed at considerable length for the information of the Committee on Publication. After the recess, the Executive Committee met at 2 o'clock, and the paper, title page and proofs of the "Journal" were examined by the members of the Executive Committee, and indi- vidual opinions in reference to them were given. Mr. Miller, Editor of the “New York Times," asked to have advance copies of future papers sent him; and it was suggested that the Secretary make a note to send anything he found of interest, to Mr. Miller, in advance of publication. The President read a letter from Mr. Fenner on rules of the Committee on Practice, and also an invitation to the Fifth Annual Dinner of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, October 7, 1912. It was determined to invite the President and Secretary of the Canadian Institute to the Annual Dinner of the Institute. The report of the Committee on Practice was read, stating that the committee found no 32
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INSTITUTE BUSINESS prima facie evidence of unprofessional conduct on the part of Mr. Cram, in relation to St. John's Cathedral. The design for the Institute seal was submitted, and it was the sense of the meeting that the President should write to Mr. Magonigle, and also to Mr. Bacon, stating the views of the Executive Committee. The following applicants were declared elected to membership in the Institute: Edwin Douglas Sompayrac, Columbia, S. C.; Olle J. Lorehn, Little Rock, Ark.; Charles M. Baker, Boston, Mass.; Henry Baechlin, Newark, N. J.; Arthur M. Hannon, Xenia, Ohio; Frederic Child Biggin, Stillwater, Okla.; William J. Sayward, Seattle, Wash., and John E. Nitchie, New York, N. Y. The report of Mr. Rankin on the Tarsney Act was accepted, and the Committee discharged with a vote of thanks. Mr. Sturgis suggested that there be eliminated from the list of nominations for Fel- lows all members who had not been five years in the Institute. Moved, seconded, and unani- mously carried, that the Secretary be instructed to write to each member of the Board of Direc- tors not here present, saying that at the full meeting of the Executive Committee it was pro- posed to add to the list of nominations for Fellows the names of Mr. L. C. Holden, Mr. Delano, Mr. Rich, and Mr. Carrel, and that the Committee asks for an expression; that an especially strong letter has been received from the Brooklyn Chapter, advocating the nomination of Mr. Carrel, and calling attention to Mr. Carrel's eminent services to the profession during the many years of his practice, and also to the fact that no Fellow has been named from Brooklyn for a period of sixteen years; that the Secretary act upon the result of this letter-ballot the same as if it were a regular vote, and refer it to the committees of the different chapters at once for their endorsement; and, if no reply is received, it will be taken as an affirmative vote. Adjournment. COMMITTEE ON COMPETITIONS F. M. Day, Chairman The Institute has for many years attempted to check the abuses which attend the choos- ing of an architect by means of a competition. These abuses, due as much to a low standard of conduct among architects as to ignorance on the part of owners, assumed many forms. Among them were the admission of the incompetent and dishonest to the competition; the issuance of programs so drawn that none but the initiated could know what they meant; the Iack of any agreement with competitors or the winner; favoritism or venality in the award; great economic waste. Careful statements of the principles which should govern competitions, issued from time to time by the Institute, proved powerless to make any great improvement in conditions. Owners never saw them, architects disregarded them. Something more effective was needed. In seeking a means of reform, the Institute realized at once that its relation to the owner could be only an advisory one. It might urge him not to hold a competition, or it might advise how to hold one, but it could go no farther; but, being a professional body charged with main- taining ethical standards among its own members, it perceived its duty was to see that they do not take part in competitions that fall below a reasonable standard of excellence. As a first step, therefore, the Institute put itself squarely on record as opposed to competi- tions on the ground that they were uncertain in their results and wasteful of time and money, and voted that no member should enter a competition the terms of which had not received the 33
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS approval of the Institute. Thereupon it defined the conditions pre-requisite to the giving of its approval. These are contained in the Circular of Advice issued by the Institute, and intended as a guide to all who are interested in competitions. Committees of the Institute throughout the country are authorized to give its approval to competitions when properly conducted; but, unless a program has received its approval, members of the Institute do not accept a position as competitor or juror; nor does a member continue to act as professional adviser after it becomes evident that the owner will not permit his program to be brought into harmony with the prin- ciples approved by the Institute. The position thus taken by the Institute is by no means an arbitrary one, since it governs the action of none but its own members. To the owner it has been invaluable, in giving him information and useful advice, and in saving him from the delays, cost, and disappointment incident to the amateur conduct of such an affair. Even in the few years since the Institute took its firm stand against the abuses of com- petitions, its effect has been far greater than could have been foreseen. It has not eliminated ill-regulated competitions, but it has reduced the number of them, and it has greatly raised the standard of competition practice. The Standing Committee on Competitions represents the Institute in its relation to com- petitions generally. It has some thirty subcommittees in the territories of the several chapters. The Standing Committee advises the subcommittees, and they report to it. They carefully examine any program for a competition submitted to them and, when they find it to be in harmony with the Institute's principles, they approve it, thus opening the competition to such members of the Institute as may be invited to take part in it. It is natural that these decisions are not always satisfactory. Architects sometimes think that the subcommittee has been too lax in its interpretation of the Institute's principles; the owner sometimes thinks it is too strict. In such cases, an appeal may be taken to the Stand- ing Committee, which thus becomes a superior court. Such appeals often involve questions that are difficult of decision, and that throw light on procedure and practice. From the decision of the Standing Committee an appeal may be taken to the Board of Directors. It is an important duty of the Standing Committee, as also of its subcommittees, to enlighten owners as to proper methods of procedure, and to show them that a competition conducted in accordance with good practice conserves their interests just as it does those of the competitors. Such efforts are generally received in good part, and are often successful. It is not a part of the duty of the Standing Committee to pass upon the conduct of the adviser, the jury, or the competitors, although it may submit facts within its knowledge to the proper authority—the Committee on Practice. The work of the Standing Committee is great in volume, and it is of a character that forces the Committee to take a very serious view of its duties. COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT ARCHITECTURE M. B. Mepary, Jr., Chairman November t1, 1912 The Committee on Government Architecture trusts that through the "Journal" it may receive the hearty coóperation of every member of the Institute. The work of this Committee covers a field which is peculiarly in need of the active interests of the whole profession. At this time, when the Federal Government has repealed the legislation which heretofore has brought to the solution of the Government's great building projects the ablest architects in the country, 34
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INSTITUTE BUSINESS the Institute is confronted with the problem of making it clear to every American, legislator or private citizen, that the great public works undertaken by this nation must be second to none; that such works must be the product of the highest skill obtainable m design and con- struction; that our cities, our buildings, and our monuments must be representative of the art, the science, and the progress of our civilization, and not merely means to an end. It may well be that to bring about such a condition a department of the Government should be created with authority, or the powers of the Fine Arts Commission should be extended to include authority, to veto in the name of the people, any public work proposed for the nation by any department whenever such a work could not be regarded by this depart- ment as a worthy monument to this generation and a factor in the education of the next. The Institute enjoys the dignity of representing the profession of architecture in America, and upon it rests the responsibility for any failure to speak plainly and clearly to all the people on matters architectural. It is, therefore, hoped that each member will use the "Journal," so far as may be, to aid and assist each other and your Committee on Government Architecture in bringing to the attention of the public generally the necessity for official recognition of the Fine Arts by our National Government as a vital part of our civilization and of the education of our children. COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC INFORMATION Davip KNICKERBACKER Bovp, Chairman The Chairman of the Committee on Public Information wishes to express the Committee's gratification at the very favorable reception, by the Chapters, of the proposition made by authority of the resolution adopted at the last Convention,—namely, that each create a Chapter Committee on Public Information. Almost two-thirds of the chapters have such committees. The name of the chairman of each is as follows: Atlanta.................. ETE Hal F. Hentz, Candler Building. Boston.................. e Walter H. Kilham, 9 Park Street. Brooklyn... ees edges . Beverly S. King, 103 Park Avenue, New York. Central New York.............. Prof. C. A. Martin, Ithaca. Cleveland............... РРР Herbert B. Briggs, 669 Rose Building. HINGIS teat cc pe ER RE RES EMO I. K. Pond, Steinway Hall, Chicago. MICHIGAN isses eed hates A. H. Scott, Ford Building, Detroit. New Јегѕеу.................... George S. Drew, 15 Washington Avenue, Grantwood, N. J. New York..................... Franklin B. Ware, 1170 Broadway, New York. Philadelphia................... Albert Kelsey, Perry Building. Southern California............. Fernand Parmentier, 538 Byrne Building, Los Angeles. Southern Pennsylvania.......... Thomas H. Hamilton, 11 North Second St., irri bure: Pa. Ste LOUISIANE Walter L. Rathman, 1501 Chemical Building. Washington.................... Frank C. Baldwin, The Octagon. Washington State.............. Chas. H. Alden, Crary Building, Seattle. \ү1$соп51п..................... Wm. Н. Schuchardt, 428 Jefferson St., Milwaukee. Kansas Спиу................... B. Lubchez, 200 Reliance Building. Pittsburgh: o ass ehe es Joseph L. Neal, 21514 Fourth Avenue. Rhode Island.................. Fleazer B. Homer, 72 Weybosset St., Providence. Many other chapters are preparing to appoint committees. Chapters not yet having taken any action are urged to do so, in order to complete the chain. One of the purposes of these Committees on Public Information is to cause the correction of erroneous statements and “misconceptions” regarding the practice of architecture, whenever 35
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS and wherever they occur. And, of course, the correction should, if possible, be made with at least as much emphasis as was given to the original statement. This means that architects must not be content with securing a notice in the technical and professional publications denying or correcting misstatements which appear in the public press. This is but telling architects through their own medium something which they, pre- sumably, already know. The ear of the public must be reached through the press with authen- tic information, which it not only can use, but will be only too glad to receive in replacing the material previously found to have been at fault. The Chairman of the Institute Committee on Public Information, receives clippings from every part of the country relating in any way to the Institute, and distributes them to the committees and individuals most likely to be interested. He has in his possession a complete list of all newspapers and of all other publica- tions issued in North America. These are classified, subdivided, and arranged according to localities. He will be glad to have prepared and sent to the chairman of any subcommittee on Public Information a list of the principal newspapers and other desired publications within any given territory, for use in properly distributing material intended for public information. MEMBERSHIP The following applicants were declared elected members of the American Institute of Archi- tects by final vote of the Executive Committee at their meeting October 10, 1912, subject to the result of the ballot of October 15, 1912, which was counted October 21 and resulted in the election of the following: Baker, Charles M. к А В ; А : Mass., Boston. Nitchie, John E. . * ; : è Р А N. Y., New York. Baechlin, Henry . : . . А : : N. J., Newark. Hannon, Arthur M. : Е А , ; : Ohio, Cleveland. Sompayrac, Edwin Douglas . A ; i Я S. C., Columbia. Biggin, Frederic Child . А : 4 ‘ ; Okla., Stillwater. Lorehn, Olle J. . : А А , 6 ; Texas, Houston. Sayward, William J. . ; А А A š Wash., Seattle. 36
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CHAPTER NOTES SOUTHERN PENNSYLVANIA CHAPTER The October meeting of the Southern Pennsylvania Chapter, which was held at the office of B. F. Willis, York, Pa., was called to order, at 3.45 P.M., by President J. A. Dempwolf. The members of the various Standing Committees reported. The report of the Committee on Competitions was most lengthy. This Committee reported having met the High School Building Committee at Williamsport, and had gone over the situation referring to the pro- gram which they had issued for competitive plans to erect a high school building in that city. They asked us to submit to this committee a revised program, which was done. After duly considering the same, the Chairman of the Committee at Williamsport, Edward L. Taylor, reported that, on account of the time, they did not feel they would be justified in postponing their work a sufficient length of time to send out the revised program. The committee received a very fair hearing, and felt very sorry that no further results could be reported. They also reported in reference to the proposed competition for a high school building in Harrisburg, with the movement which has been put forward by the Board of Trade, and the general situation in connection with the same. It was deemed advisable that this Chapter present to the newspapers of Harrisburg a definite action supporting the movement as for- warded by the Board of Trade. For this purpose a committee composed of Messrs. Kast, Hamilton and Fahnestock was appointed to draw up such resolutions; these resolutions being formally approved by the Chapter. The Chairman of the Committee on Public Information reported that he had forwarded the minutes of the last meeting to the various members and magazines, and received acknowl- edgment of the same. On motion of Mr. Leber, duly seconded by Mr. Hamilton, the President and Secretary were elected delegates to the next Annual Meeting of the American Institute, to be held in Washington, December 10 to 12. On motion of Mr. Kast, seconded by Reinhardt Dempwolf, Messrs. Leber and Hamilton were elected alternate delegates. It was suggested that the next meeting be held at Lancaster, about December 17, the arranging of the same to be in the hands of the Committee on Entertainments. SoUTHERN CALIFORNIA CHAPTER The sixth annual meeting of the Southern California Chapter of the American Institute of Architects was held at the Union League Club House, corner Second and Hill Streets, Los Angeles, California, on Tuesday, October 8, 1912. The meeting was called to order at 8.10 p.m. by the president, Mr. John C. Austin. The following communications were next brought before the Chapter: From Mr. D. Knick- erbacker Boyd, chairman of the Committee on Public Information, A.1.A.; from Mr. M. R. Burrowes, Secretary of the Michigan Chapter, A.I.A.; from the American Federation of Arts, requesting this Chapter's membership in the organization. On motion made by Мг. A. С. Martin, seconded by Mr. S. T. Norton, and duly carried, the Secretary was instructed to reply to this communication, declining for the present to join the American Federation of Arts. The next communication was from Mr. John C. Austin, announcing the names of six Chapter members to prepare papers for discussion at a subsequent Chapter meeting, on the subject of 37
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS opening bids from contractors in public; from the National Conference on City Planning, requesting the coóperation of individual members of this Chapter; from Mr. Glenn Brown, Secretary of American Institute of Architects, announcing that the next Institute convention is to be held in Washington, D. C. Nomination and election of officers were next in order. The question of the election of Mr. Austin by acclamation, being put before the Chapter by the temporary chairman, was unani- mously carried, and Mr. John C. Austin was proclaimed President of the Chapter for the ensuing year. Mr. R. B. Young was elected by acclamation to the Vice-Presidency of the Chap:er for the ensuing year. The present incumbent, Mr. John P. Krempel, was elected by acclamation to succeed himself as Secretary of the Chapter for the ensuing year. Mr. August Wackerbarth was unanimously elected as Treasurer of the Chapter to succeed himself for the ensuing year. Mr. S. T. Norton was elected by acclamation as Director of the Chapter for a period of three years. At the call of the President, Mr. R. B. Young, the newly elected Vice-President, addressed the Chapter in a few remarks, followed by Mr. S. T. Norton. Under the head of discussions, a report of the Committee on the Hall of Records was called for. Mr. Myron Hunt, a member of the committee, thereupon read the report, which was adopted by the Chapter, on motion made by S. T. Norton, seconded by John P. Krempel, with the proviso that a copy be forwarded to Hudson & Munsell A discussion followed on the recent awarding of construction work on the Hall of Records building. Motion was made by A. C. Martin, seconded by A. B. Benton, to have the Chapter's Com- mittee on Permanent Legislation investigate the proper applicability of the law of 1872, with especial reference to the awarding of architectural work of the county. After discussion, Mr. J. J. Backus recommended sending a number of delegates from this Chapter, and other organi- zations, to the next session of the California State Legislature, with the object of causing the law of 1872 to be repealed. Mr. J. J. Backus then moved, seconded by W. C. Pennell, that a committee from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, Los Angeles Board of Education, and the Master Build- ers’ Association, be invited to the next Chapter meeting, to discuss questions relating to the law of 1872. The President suggested also to invite the members of the Committee on Perma- nent Legislation of the San Francisco Chapter, American Institute of Architects, and the Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools. On motion made by Mr. A. C. Martin, seconded by R. H. Orr, and duly carried, the Chap- ter's Permanent Committee on Legislation was instructed to prepare a petition for the repeal of the law of 1872, and also an alternate pctition for the revision of the law of 1872, for discus- sion by the Chapter members. Mr. A. F. Rosenheim next announced that the Master Painters’ Association had requested that this Chapter appoint a committee of three to meet with a similar committee from their organization for the purpose of formulating standard specifications for painting. He pre- sented a motion, seconded by F. P. Davis, that this request be complied with. The motion was carried, and the President announced A. F. Rosenheim, H. F. Withey and P. A. Eisen as the members to form this Chapter's Committee for the purpose aforesaid. Mr. Julius W. Krause thereupon announced the death of Mr. J. Lee Burton, a life-member of this Chapter, which had occurred on Wednesday, October 2, 1912. On motion, the Presi- dent appointed the following committee to draw up a resolution of condolence: Julius W. Krause, John Parkinson and Fernand Parmentier. FERNAND PARMENTIER, Secretary. 38
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CHAPTER NOTES RHODE ISLAND CHAPTER NORTH KINGSTOWN, R. I., November 2, 1912. A regular meeting of the Chapter was held at Pausacaco Lodge, at 5 Р.М. President Isham occupied the chair. A communication from the American Civic Association was read announcing that the Eighth Annual Convention would be held in Baltimore, November 19 to 21,1912. It was voted that the Rhode Island Chapter be represented by Mr. Barker at the Convention. A communication from Secretary Glenn Brown was read, relative to the Annual Conven- tion of the Institute, to be held in Washington, December 10 to 12, 1912. It was voted that the Chair appoint three delegates, including himself, to the convention, each delegate paying his own expenses. The Chair appointed Messrs. Ely and Cady as the second and third delegates. The Secretary read extracts from letters from Mr. Glenn Brown and Mr. D. Knickerbacker Boyd, relating to the Institute Committee on Public Information. It was voted that the Chair appoint a sub-committee on Public Information, consisting of five members. The Chair appointed Mr. Homer, Chairman and Messrs. Cady, Hall, Barker and Pitts. The Committee on Admissions reported and recommended the election of Mr. Harold Eric Kebbon as Junior Member of the Chapter. Mr. Kebbon was elected by ballot. Mr. Cady spoke in favor of offering a medal annually to the member who has done the most creditable building for the year. After discussion it was voted that the Chair appoint a committee of three to investigate the matter and report at the next meeting. CLEVELAND CHAPTER The regular Chapter Meeting was held at The Hollenden, on the evening of October 3, 1912. The meeting was called to order by President F. S. Barnum. The following correspondence was read: | Letters from Glenn Brown, Secretary of the American Institute of Architects, announcing the next convention of the Institute at Washington, December 10, 11, and 12, 1912. Also a letter calling attention to the regulation in force for nomination of officers of the Institute for 1913, same as 1912. Letter from Michigan Chapter, American Institute of Architects, referring to uniform size of manufacturers! advertising matter. Mr. Barnum suggested that the delegates to convention take this matter up with Michigan Chapter, at Washington. Invitation from Iowa Chapter, American Institute of Architects, to attend the convention at Keokuk, November 8 and 9. Letter from the Ohio State Building Code Commission. Moved by Mr. Skeel, seconded by Mr. Bohnard, that the same be referred to the Building Code Committee, to take the matter up at once. Carried. Letter from the National Conference on City Planning. Mr. Barnum suggested that a copy of the letter be sent to all members. Letter from American Federation of Arts. Moved by Mr. Hopkinson, seconded by Mr. Benes, instructing the secretary to write to get definite information regarding the amount of dues from this Chapter, in case it should join the Federation. Carried. 39
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS Copy of letter to Hon. Newton D. Baker, Mayor of Cleveland, from Committee of Munici- pal Art and Architecture of the Chamber of Commerce, referring to employment of profes- sional services by city. Mr. Hopkinson and Mr. Bohnard gave explanations regarding the same. Moved by Mr. Hopkinson, seconded by Mr. Skeel, that the Secretary acknowledge the receipt of the copy of letter to Munson Havens, Secretary of Chamber of Commerce, that the same be referred to Committee of Art and Architecture for its further consideration, and that the subject be called up at next meeting. Carried. The President directed the Special Committee conferring with the Building Exchange to continue its work, as at present constituted, with Mr. Barnum acting with them when pos- sible. Committee consists of Messrs. Bohnard, Hopkinson and Skeel. Mr. Benes stated that, Mr. Hubbell being out of the city, the report Mr. Hubbell was to give on the stair section of code could not be given until next meeting. Mr. Barnum reported attending meeting with Building Inspector and Committee from the Building Exchange regarding revision of the Building Code. Mr. Skeel moved, seconded by Mr. Bohm, that Mr. Barnum, Mr. Bohnard, Mr. Hopkinson and Mr. Hubbell be elected as delegates. Carried. Mr. Benes nominated Mr. Tousley and Mr. Skeel, and Mr. Hopkinson nominated Mr. Benes and Mr. Bohm, to be elected as alternates. Seconded by Mr. White. Carried. Mr. Barnum then announced the Standing Committees for the ensuing year, as follows: Municipal Art and Architecture Committee.—Mr. C. W. Hopkinson, Chairman; Mr. W. D. Benes, Mr. Abram Garfield. Education Committe.—Mr. Herrman Dercum, Chairman; Mr. F. W. Striebinger, Mr. W. R. Powell. Building Code Committee.—Mr. Benj. S. Hubbell, Chairman; Mr. H. S. Nelson, Mr. A. E. Skeel. Membership Committee.—Mr. C. E. Tousley, Chairman; Mr. W. H. Nicklas, Mr. C. W. Warner. Program Committee.— Mtr. F. R. Walker, Chairman; Мг. W. S. Dutton, Mr. C. F. Schneider. Committee on Public Information.—Mr. Н. B. Briggs, Chairman; Mr. V. E. Thebaud, Mr. G. W. Beer. G. B. Boum, Secretary. CLEVELAND CHAPTER The regular meeting was held November 7, 1912, President F. S. Barnum in Chair. Minutes of previous meeting read and approved. Communication was read from Fred W. Elliott, of the State Building Code Commission, asking the Chapter to have one representative at Columbus, November 18, at a general dis- cussion of changes in the tentative parts of the State Building Code. Mr. Briggs moved, and Mr. Skeel seconded, that Mr. Benjamin S. Hubbell act as representative of the Chapter at Columbus, November 18. Carried. It was the sense of the meeting that a general code was desirable, and a detailed code or a set of specifications undesirable. It was further stated that several organizations would work together, and Mr. Hubbell be allowed the greatest latitude. | Communication from the American Federation of Arts, regarding the Chapter taking mem- bership in same, was read. Mr. Benes moved and Mr. Bohm seconded, that the Chapter take membership in the American Federation of Arts, entitling the Chapter to send one delegate. Motion put and lost. ` 40 e = eee ee.
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CHAPTER NOTES Communication from Glenn Brown, Secretary of the American Institute of Architects, stating that Mr. Arthur M. Hannon of Cleveland Chapter has been elected a member of the Institute at the meeting of the Executive Committee, American Institute of Architects, Octo- ber 10, 1912, was read. Another communication from Glenn Brown was read, calling attention to the meeting of the Committee on Public Information at the New Williard Hotel, Washington, D. C., Decem- ber 9, at 8 P.M., asking attendance of members of the subcommittee at this meeting. The meeting then adjourned, to listen to discussion of tests recently made on six different forms of construction of fire-resisting partitions. This was fully illustrated by lantern-slides. The records of the various tests were read and explained by Mr. Barnum. Messrs. H. B. McMasters, J. B. Frauenthal, K. H. Osborne and L. H. Miller were present as guests, and joined in the discussion that followed the reading of the fire-test records. G. B. Boum, Secretary. Boston CHAPTER The regular meeting of the Society was held on Tuesday evening, October 8, at the Boston Architectural Club, 16 Somerset Street. The meeting was in commemoration of Edmund M. Wheelwright. There was an address by Mr. C. Howard Walker, upon the work of Mr. Wheelwright, illustrated by lantern- slides. The name of Mr. James E. McLaughlin was voted upon at this meeting, for membership in the Society. CHARLES N. CocswELL, Secretary. The regular meeting of the Society was held at the Exchange Club, Tuesday evening, November 5. Officers were elected. The business meeting was devoted to the discussion of some very important committee reports. Report of the Committee on Education in regard to the coóperation of the Society and the Boston Architectural Club. Report of the Committee on Public Improvements about several very interesting matters which have been under investigation by this Committee. There was a discussion in regard to the plans of the Dock Board which had already been brought up before the Society. Delegates to the American Institute of Architects’ Convention were appointed at this meeting. Mr. Joseph McGinniss, the recently returned Rotch Scholar, presented his final report. There was a talk, illustrated by lantern-slides, by Mr. Robert S. Peabody, on his recent trip to Greece. CHARLES М. CocsweE Lt, Secretary. MINNESOTA CHAPTER At the regular annual meeting of the Minnesota Chapter, October 15, 1912, the following officers were elected: President, Wm. Channing Whitney, Minneapolis; Vice-President, Harry Downs; Secretary and Treasurer, Edwin H. Brown, Minneapolis. 41
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS SAN Francisco CHAPTER At the Annual Meeting of the San Francisco Chapter, American Institute of Architects, the following officers were elected: President, George B. McDougall; Vice-President, Edgar Mathews; Secretary and Treasurer, Sylvain Schnaittacher; Trustees, William Mooser and W. B. Faville. The business meeting was preceded by a largely attended dinner, following which the annual reports of the officers were received, and the retiring President, John Galen Howard, delivered his address to the chapter. ILLINOIS CHAPTER At the informal dinner which preceded the meeting of October 8, 1912, there were pres- ent twenty-one members, besides Honorary Member, Frederick Baumann, and the following guests: George E. Hooper, Civic Secretary of the City Club; Louis A. Damon, Secretary of the Municipal Art League; Jens Jensen, Member of Committee appointed by Mayor Harrison for the Protection of Residence Districts; Н. W. Culbertson, of the “Economist and Construc- tion News;" L. Muller, Editor of the “Building News;" Richard B. Watrous, Secretary of the American Civic Association, Washington, D. C.; Henry Ericsson, Committee of Buildings; W. A. Erickson and F. A. Childs. Total 31. At 7.20 P.M. the meeting was called to order by President Elmer C. Jensen, who introduced Mr. Richard B. Watrous, Secretary of the American Civic Association, Washington, D. C., who was on his way to Yosemite Park to attend a conference for the establishment of a Bureau of National Parks. He spoke upon the necessity of conserving the areas suitable for national parks, and of making them accessible and available for the people. _ Mr. Jensen, as his inaugural address (which is placed on file), directed the attention of the members to the widening field of study for architects and the important position they and the Chapter should occupy in matters relating to City Planning, and especially those matters having to do with the development of Chicago. Mr. George E. Hooker, Civic Secretary of the City Club, the speaker of the evening, spoke upon “The Principles of Modern City Planning," and his interesting talk was illustrated by numerous slides, showing schemes projected and adopted by various cities. Mr. L. A. Damon, Assistant Secretary of the Municipal Art League, spoke of the work of the League, its proposed meetings, especially the one of October 17, 1912, under the auspices of the Committee on Building Regulations, and asked the help of architects in certain local matters. Communications were read as follows: From Wisconsin Chapter, dated September 12, in appreciation of the active interest in behalf of the American Renaissance in Art taken by Hon. Francis G. Newlands. . . . . Invitation from Iowa Chapter to attend its Annual meeting at Cedar Rapids, lowa, November 8 and 9, and also to inspect the Mississippi River Power Company's dam. . . . . Letters from Glenn Brown, Secretary of the American Institute of Architects, announcing that the name of Arthur Woltersdorf would come before the Board of Directors for advancement to Fellow Member of the Institute. Upon motion, the Chapter unanimously endorsed Mr. Woltersdorf for Fellow Membership. At its meeting of November 12, the Chapter unanimously petitioned Governor-elect Dunne to retain upon the State Board of Examiners of Architects Peter B. Wight, a "42
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CHAPTER NOTES present member and, from the creation of the Board, its Secretary, his knowledge and experi- ence making him a most highly valuable adjunct to the Board. Henry Hornbostel, of New York City, addressed the Chapter upon “The Ancient Ruins of Yucatan," which were visited and photographed by him in company with Lloyd Warren, also of New York. The address was accompanied with slides from Mr. Hornbostel’s photo- graphs. The following delegates were chosen to represent the Chapter at the Forty-sixth Annual Convention of the Institute: Elmer C. Jensen, President of the Chapter, Arthur Woltersdorf, who is to be advanced to fellowship in the Institute, and Messrs. A. B. Pond, Geo. Beaumont, R. E. Schmidt, P. J. Weber and Arthur Brown. The following alternates were chosen: Webster Tomlinson, C. D. Waterbury, H. S. Powers, J. L. Hamilton, Geo. C. Ninnoms, W. K. Fellows and F. W. Worst. The Chapter considered and suggested amendments to the proposed State Building Laws, which are being codified by a Commissioner appointed by Governor Dennen. A communication was read from the Secretary of the American Civic Association, Richard B. Watrous, Washington, D. C., inviting the Illinois Chapter to become an affiliated member of the Association. Upon recommendation of the Executive Committee, the Chapter voted to accept the invitation, and authorized the Secretary to make application for membership. Mr. I. K. Pond gave a report of his attendance upon the Annual Meeting of the Iowa Chap- ter, American Institute of Architects, and a visit of inspection of the Mississippi River Power Company's dam at Keokuk. Mr. George W. Rapp, of the Cincinnati Chapter, American Institute of Architects, and Commissioner of Buildings of Cincinnati, spoke of his experience as Commissioner. It was moved and carried that Walter B. Griffin be requested to represent the Chapter at the coming Convention of the American Civic Association, to be held at Baltimore, November 19, 1912. After Mr. Hornbostel had given a brief description of the method of awarding the New York Chapter "Apartment House Medal," the meeting adjourned at 10.10 P.M. New Yonk CHAPTER Quarterly review of Chapter proceedings, October 31, 1912. The October meeting of the Chapter, with an attendance of twenty-four members, marks the resumption of work after the summer recess. During the corresponding period the Executive Committee has held four meetings. As a result of objections from many interested, and a few disinterested sources, and the rather disturbed internal conditions in the Board of Aldermen, the proposed building Code has not been reported out of committee and, for the present at least, there is no probability of any such action. The arduous work of the Joint Committee has, however, been by no means lost, as the fact now appears to be established that no Code which has not the approval of thc Joint Committee can pass the Board of Aldermen. The influence of this Joint Committee in the matter of improving building conditions in the City of New York is at this very time receiv- ing recognition in many directions. The work of the Chapter representatives on the Com- mittee is deserving of the thanks both of the profession as a whole and of their fellow members. The repeal of the Tarsney Act, and the consequent throwing back of all Government work upon the Supervising Architect of the Treasury, with the logical result of "rubber-stamp" architecture, is doubtless known to all the members of the Chapter. This repeal was fought 43
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS by the Chapter Committees, working in concert with the representatives of the Institute and other Chapters, but, while the Senate Committee agreed to strike out the clause repealing the act, the House Conferees were firm in their stand, and the Act was repealed. As was clearly proved in the comprehensive report of the [nstitute Committee headed by Mr. Rankin, and ably set forth in Senator Newland's argument against the repeal, the cost of preparing plans in the Supervising Architect's office is at least equal to the cost in fees for architectural services under the Tarsney Act, and the argument of economy falls to the ground, leaving the real reason for the repeal of the law enveloped in mystery. For the moment, it seems as if the House of Representatives had been successful in forcing a backward step of twenty years in Government architecture; but it is certain that the question will not be allowed to drop, and it is hoped that after the presidential campaign is over a new act may be passed, from which the various defects in the Tarsney Act will be eliminated, and in which many improvements will be incorporated. The bill introduced in the Senate by Senator O'Gorman, authorizing the purchase of a site for a new Post Office and Federal Court Building, in the neighborhood of the new Court House, was supported by the Chapter Committee, working with the Merchants' Association and other civic bodies, but unfortunately it is still in the hands of the subcommittee of the Senate to which it was referred. It is hoped that it may be reported out at the coming session of Congress. Mr. Brainard, the Chapter delegate to the Sixth International Congress on Testing Mate- rials, has reported on the very interesting work of the Conference, and has recommended to the Chapter the adoption of the Society's standard specifications for structural and reinforcing steel, Portland cement and concrete, and will secure for the Chapter copies of such portions of these specifications as are of interest to the profession. The question of drafting a new form of contract for architects’ services in connection with city work is still in the hands of the Controller, whose deputy, Mr. Mathewson, has stated to Mr. Brainard, the Chapter representative in the matter, that it is the desire of the Finance Department to prepare a new contract satisfactory to the [nstitute. It is needless to enlarge upon the Chapter's hope that this desire may soon be gratified. The Jury for the Tenement House Medals consists this year of the following members: President La Farge, Chairman; Robert W. DeForest, President of the New York City Art Commission; John J. Murphy, Tenement House Commissioner; Egerton Swartwout, Walter B. Chambers, Arthur E. Willauer, George B. Ford, Henry Atterbury Smith, Laurence F. Peck. A number of buildings have been submitted to the Jury for their consideration, showing the increased interest in the medal among architects and builders. CHARLES BUTLER, Recorder. ST. Louis CHAPTER The Annual Meeting was held at the Missouri Athletic Club on September 24, 1912, there being present twenty members. The President, Mr. Klipstein, made his Annual Address giving a resume of the work accom- plished by the Chapter during the past year, and referred in particular to the good work done in prevailing on the Missouri Capitol Commission to draw up the program for the Capitol Competition, in accordance with the requirements of the Institute. The election of officers followed the regular routine of business. The officers elected for the year 1912, are as follows: E. C. Klipstein, President; G. F. A. Brueggeman, Vice-Presi- dent; William H. Gruen, Secretary; E. S. Klein, Treasurer; Ernest Helfensteller, Fifth Member of the Board of Directors. 44
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CHAPTER NOTES The elections were unanimous in all cases; the President, Treasurer, and Fifth Member of the Board being re-elected for the second term. Mr. Pendleton, Advisory Architect to the State Capitol Commission, was appointed a Committee of one to endeavor to obtain the consent of the Competitors in the Capitol Com- petition to allow their drawings to be exhibited at the Public Exhibition held in the Central Library in St. Louis. The first regular monthly meeting of 1912 was held on October 29, at the Missouri Athletic Club. A subject of general interest which was taken up at this meeting was in regard toa request of the Electrical Contractors of St. Louis to figure directly with the architects and, whenever practicable, for the architects to employ Electrical Engineers to lay out the Electrical work and write the specifications for same. A resolution was offered and carried in regard to this matter as follows: “It is the sense of this meeting that, whenever practicable, architects employ Electrical Engineers to write speci- fications for electrical work on buildings," and a further motion that a copy of the resolu- tions be sent to every member of the Chapter and to the Secretary of the Association of Elec- trical Contractors, also carried. A letter from Mr. Glenn Brown calling attention to the Institute's Annual Convention in Washington was read. Delegates to this Convention were nominated and elected at this meet- ing, as follows: Messrs. Klipstein, Brueggeman, Mauran and Ittner, for regular delegates; and Messrs. Russell, Fames, Young, T. C. Link and Professor Robinson, for alternates. Mr. Brueggeman then made a motion, which was heartily seconded, that the Secretary of the Chapter be instructed to write a letter to the Institute Jury having in charge the nomi- nation of Fellows to the Institute, and recommend the nomination of Mr. Klipstein for fellow- ship in the Institute. The motion was carried. PHILADELPHIA CHAPTER The Annual Meeting was held on October 14. John Hall Rankin, President, made a most concise and business-like report, showing that he had kept his various committees profitably occupied during the year. Ten monthly meetings of the Chapter were held, with an average attendance of twenty-two and five-tenths members; and forty-seven regular meetings of the Executive Committee and one special meeting were held, with an average attendance of six and five-tenths out of a membership of nine. The meeting voted that $25 should be allotted to help pay the expenses of each delegate to the Convention at Washington. Mr. Horace Wells Sellers, Chairman of the Committee on City Documents, read his valua- ble and most important report made to Directors Cook and Porter on behalf of Philadelphia's Reform City Government. He pointed out with startling clearness the old-fashioned and loose methods in drawing up contracts and specifications for public work which have previously prevailed and have made it so difficult to obtain proper competitive estimates and an honest performance of work. In this connection, it should be recorded that for the first time in the history of the Philadelphia Chapter the present City administration has fully taken advantage of the services which this organization is always ready and willing to give freely in the interests of the community at large. Moreover, it has sought the aid and advice of the Chapter in other matters, besides the drawing of public documents, with the result that one of its members has assisted in the preparation of civil-service examination papers, and two members have been 45
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS retained as expert witnesses in the City's action of conspiracy against the late Director of Public Safety and others. At this meeting officers were elected for the coming year, together with the delegates and alternates to the 46th Convention in Washington. The officers are: John Hall Rankin, Presi- dent (re-elected); M. B. Medary, Jr., 1st Vice-President (re-elected); Wm. D. Hewitt, 2d Vice-President; H. W. Sellers, Secretary; George I. Lovatt, Treasurer; and Walter H. Thomas, Librarian and Recorder. Executive Committee.—D. Knickerbacker Boyd, Arthur H. Brockie, J. P. B. Sinkler. Delegates.—Chas. L. Borie, D. Knickerbacker Boyd, E. P. Bissell, A. H. Brockie, T. M. Kellogg, Albert Kelsey, John Molitor, H. W. Sellers, ex-officio, J. H. Rankin, ex-officio. Alternates.—C. M. Zicgler, Walter H. Thomas, C. C. Zantzinger, A. H. Granger, William L. Plack, Wilson Eyre, Jr., Thomas Nolan, E. C. Evans, J. L. Heacock. PITTSBURGH CHAPTER The Annual Meeting was held on the sth of November, and the following officers were elected: O. M. Topp, President; A. H. Spahr, Vice-President; Richard Hooker, Secretary; Carlton Strong, Treasurer. Directors: Topp, Spahr, Hooker, Strong, R. M. Trimble, Richard Kiehrel and John T. Comes. Kansas CITY CHAPTER Met for noon luncheon and transaction of Chapter business at the Coates House, Wednes- day, November 6, 1912. The report of the subcommittee on Education was read and adopted, and the Committee was authorized to proceed with the establishment of various courses of study under the auspices of the Chapter, as recommended in the report. The Chairman was authorized to subscribe to a press clipping bureau, in order to be able to carry on more thor- oughly the work of the Committee on Public Information. After the discussion of several purely local and routine matters, the meeting adjourned. This was the second luncheon meet- ing, a feature which is proving highly successful in bringing the members to the meeting, as well as in fostering a very desirable feeling of good fellowship. BALTIMORE CHAPTER A meeting was held at the President's office on November 11, 1912. Thos. C. Kennedy, Clyde N. Fritz and Geo. Worthington were elected delegates to the forty-sixth Annual Conven- tion, to be held in Washington on December 10-12, 1912. George Worthington was appointed to represent the Chapter Committees on Competitions and Public Information at the Com- mittee meetings of the Convention. 46
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COMMUNICATIONS The Committee on Public Information sent a letter to two hundred and forty publications, calling attention to the new "Journal of the American Institute of Architects," informing them that material in the Journal which seemed to be of particular interest to the readers of different publications would be sent to them in the form of clippings. Publishers were asked to coóperate with the "Journal" in placing information before the public. Publishers were requested to call the attention of the "Journal" to material in their periodicals that would be of interest to the architects. With this letter was enclosed the Announcement of the "Journal" which had been pre- viously sent to all members of the Institute. The replies to both, on the part of publishers and members, have been most cordial and results are expected from this coóperation in the dissemination of authoritative information. Excerpts from these replies will from time to time be given. The following are sure to prove of interest: “А large percentage of our practice is school-house work. The Institute has made it unethi- cal for an architect to enter a competition unless the competition conforms to the Code of the Institute.” “А real earnest campaign of instruction should be inaugurated through the press and jour- nals of this country, other than architectural journals, to inform the public along the lines of architectural practice." “In the particular field of School Architecture, the ‘American School Board Journal’ would be an important agency to help solve the problem; and I would advise that it be asked to give the matter serious and successive articles, with especial reference to competitions." The “School Board Journal," Mr. George Bruce, publisher, states that they publish from month to month material which they intend to be helpful in solving the common building problems of sanitation, light, equipment, as well as discussions on proper planning. They state that they will be glad to coóperate with the architects in giving accurate information, as it will be of value to their readers to follow out this policy. They have determined to publish the following letter of interest by Mr. Walter Cook, President of the Institute: AN INTERESTING EXPERIENCE CONCERNING A COMPETITION FOR A SCHOOL House, WRITTEN BY AN OFFICER OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS (PRESIDENT Cook) FOR THE AMERICAN SCHOOL BOARD JOURNAL. While it is pretty generally recognized in the profession that the direct selection of an archi- tect for any proposed work, on the ground of the proofs of competence and ability that he has given in his executed work, is the best and safest course for the client to take, it can easily be understood that in the case of public work such a selection is often very difficult. The public body which has the very delicate duty of making a choice may be accused of favoritism by any discontented element in the community; and it not infrequently happens that such accusa- tions are not without justification. And the public body in question is also sometimes apt to forget that the only thing which it can properly keep in mind 15 the best interest of the community, and to consider the work in question as a sort of prize to be striven for by the architects—a piece of meat thrown out to be scrambled and fought for by a pack of hungry dogs. Now this point of view might have a certain reasonable side, if we could lose sight of the fact that the ability to produce on paper an attractive design is only one part of the architect's 47
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS work—only partially related to his ability as the constructor of a building, which often fails to fulfil the expectations raised by the drawings, either as to beauty or utility. And the cases in which even the drawings are made not by the architect but for the architect are unfortunately not altogether unknown. It is for these reasons that an architectural competition in which any architect is allowed to compete who has not given his proofs of experience and capacity beforehand, so that there can be no question raised as to his employment if he is considered to have submitted the best design, is an exceedingly dangerous proceeding for the community. And it must be remem- bered that, while any private owner is justified in taking any and all risks in the choice of an architect, no public body is justified in doing so, as it is in a position of trust, and responsible to the community which it represents. It is the want of knowledge, or of consideration, of these conditions that has resulted so often in unfortunate results; and doubtless many of these would have been prevented if the public at large and the bodies representing them were aware of them; for, more often than not, they have been the result of ignorance, and not of any improper motives. And it is very notice- able that, as they are more generally understood, matters are better managed. The “Cam- paign of Education" is really not a very strenuous one. A number of years ago, the Board of Education of a thriving city in one of the middle states was confronted with the problem of a new school building and, deciding to have a com- petition for the selection of an architect, retained the writer as a professional adviser. Their first statement was that "public opinion demanded that all should have a chance." On the dan- gers of this course being pointed out to them, and a competition between a limited number of architects of proved ability being recommended, they finally, with perhaps some reluctance, agreed to a compromise. The competition was advertised, and the statement made that any architect desiring to compete should submit his name and qualifications to the board; that from these names a number not to exceed fifteen, of those who seemed to make the best show- ing, should be allowed to compete, and no others. The competition proceeded, one of the competitors was appointed and the school was built. Some years afterward, the same Board had another school to build, and again consulted the writer. “We have concluded," they said to him, "that you were right in your advice; for this competition we are going to invite only five or six architects, all of whom we know are good men, and whom we will pay for their services." The competition was held, and it happened that the winner was the same who had built their former school. Again, some years later, a third school was to be built; and the Board of Education decided that, even though the results of the former competitions had been successful, a competition in this case was neither necessary nor desirable; and the same architect was again appointed. It seems as though this little story in three chapters was instructive and valuable, as show- ing that an enlightened and intelligent public body only needs to know the real conditions, to arrive at the same conclusions as those of the great majority of architects. In this particular instance, knowledge was gained by experience—an experience which might easily have been a disastrous one. It is sincerely hoped that other Boards of Education, in other cities, may profit by this experience, without incurring the dangers happily escaped in this case. HARRISBURG HiGH SCHOOL COMPETITION The citizens of Harrisburg, Pa., are about to vote on the issuance of a loan covering the erection of a high school costing half a million dollars. Certain of them fearing that the design- 48 —.
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COMMUNICATIONS ing of the building might not be of the most efficient kind have endeavored to secure, in advance of the vote and as a guide to their action at the election, assurances that the architect will be chosen by means of a properly conducted competition. Knowing that the first step in holding a competition should be the choice of a competent adviser, they asked the Chairman of the Committee on Public Information for directions in the matter and he requested the Chairman of the Standing Committee on Competitions to state to them the reasons for such a course. The Chairman replied in a letter which sets forth those reasons so clearly that its publi- cation in the "Journal" appears to be desirable. It is as follows: "MR. J. Horace MCFARLAND, Harrisburg, Pa. "My Dear Sir.—Answering your question as to why an expert should be employed to conduct an architectural competition, I would say that among many such reasons the following occur to me at once: "First. The conduct of a competition is a highly technical matter. Failure attends it on every hand unless it be guided by one who has great skill and a large experience, not merely as an architect but in conducting competitions. ""The owner who attempts this role is as sure to fail as if he tried to plead a case or to per- form a surgical operation. I mean by this that good sense and business ability are utterly useless as qualifications, unless experience and technical skill go with them. The history of competitions shows that the conduct of them by amateurs leads to failure, disappointment, and litigation. "Second. Failure to employ an expert indicates one of two things,—ignorance as to the proper and accepted method of procedure, or an intention to use the competition as a cloak for an improper award. The appointment of a skilled and reputable adviser charged with the duty of preparing the program, and seeing to it that fairness and honesty prevail, and that the interests alike of the owner and of the competitors are safeguarded, is a guarantee to the public, and to competitors, that none of the abuses so frequent in competitions, such as favor- itism or venality in the award, will be allowed to prevail. ""Third. The appointment of such an adviser is a guarantee to those responsible for the success of the competition that the more frequent causes of failure will be avoided. These causes are: (a). Failure to bring the program into consonance with Iaw. (b). Failure clearly to set forth the relations of the owner to competitors and the winner. (c). Failure effectively to limit the cost of executing the designs submitted. (d). Failure to insure that competent advice as to the merits of the designs submitted will be given to the owner. (e). Failure to guard against awarding the work to an inexperienced or dishonest architect. (f). Failure to secure competitors of ability and honesty. "Fourth. Finally, perhaps the most important reason of all for the employment of a thor- oughly competent expert is that architects of recognized ability and high standing decline with practical unanimity to take part as competitors unless such an expert is in charge, and, since their participation is the only way to make the competition a success, it follows that failure to employ an expert determines the failure of the competition. “I enclose a ‘Circular of Advice’ wherein, on page 5, you will find an outline of the expert's duties. “If I can be of any further service to you, pray command me. "Sincerely yours, (Signed) FRANK Mi es Day.” “The House Beautiful" published a short article, which other papers copied, on architects and their services, which is so unfair that the Committee on Public Information sent out a letter, calling attention to its misleading statements and explaining actual conditions. 49
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NEWS ITEMS Attention is called to the appreciation shown by the general press of the importance of holding competitions in accordance with the Institute's regular practice. (From the “Times,” St. Louis, Mo.) THE Missouni CAPITOL COMPETITION “The members of the American Institute of Architects have rendered a valuable service to Missouri by winning their contention that, in the submission of plans for the new State Capitol, the work should be genuinely competitive. “The State Capitol Commission has announced its willingness to further the competition idea; and, if its concession to the architects has not been complete, it still indicates a willing- ness to be fair. “There has been no charge, from the first, that the Capitol Commission has wilfully opened the way for irregularities in the work of constructing the new capitol. But, in view of the methods which have prevailed in other commonwealths in similar circumstances, there is need of every possible precaution, to prevent the charge of favoritism or political influence in a work which should be held clear of favoritism and politics, if it is to be done well and honestly. “The position taken by the architects, is, we believe, one which would be insisted upon by thoughtful tax-payers. They demand simply that the plans submitted for the new building should be without identification, and that they should be chosen upon their merit, the name of the architect being revealed only after the choice was made.” e (From the “Republic,” St. Louis, Mo.) “A Source oF Just PRIDE то Missourians.” "Reserving for more leisurely comment the stately design for the new State Capitol which has just been accepted by the Capitol Board, The 'Republic' desires to congratulate the people of this Commonwealth upon the manner in which the selection has been made. “For the first time in the history of American architecture, a State Capitol design has been selected in conformity with the rules of the American Institute of Architects. Never was there a competition more impartial. The preliminary competition brought forth sketches of sixty- nine different buildings. From among these, ten were selected by the jury of experts. An examination was made into the professional and business standing of the ten firms so honored, and an honorarium paid to cover the cost of production of complete designs. “The three architectural experts selected from the Institute and the four Capitol Commis- sioners were a unit in the choice of the successful design. No one of the Commissioners knew when the final choice was made, whose design they were approving. “In this important matter, of deep interest to every citizen in the state, Мән has set an example to the country. [t is under such conditions that great buildings are produced and truly monumental architecture made possible. In view of the history of the selection of designs for the State Houses of certain other western commonwealths, the action of the State Capitol Commission appears the more admirable.” 50
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NEWS ITEMS NEED or EDUCATION While the foregoing show an understanding by some of the editors of the daily papers, the following quotations indicate that the press and public still need educating in this important matter, and the Committees on Public Information and Competitions will carry out this part of the program of the Institute: “The architects object to our stipulation that at least eight architects shall submit sketches before any are considered,” said Mayor T. Dickman, Sheboygan, today, over long-distance telephone. “They also object to having the committee select plans, demanding that architects be given the privilege. We have requests for more than forty sketch specifications and, although we have received few plans thus far, we anticipate no difficulty. The architects in the com- bine are few, and we expect independent drawings. In case we do not receive enough sketches at first, we shall continue advertising until we do.” “RULES FOR ARCHITECTS” The current number of “The Western Builder" notes the fact that the American Institute of Architects has notified its members that anyone bidding on the plans for a $100,000 City Hall at Sheboygan, Wisconsin, will be deemed guilty of unprofessional conduct. According to this magazine, the Institute claims that all competitions of that sort must include the appoint- ment of a Board of Architects to decide the winner, and the Institute holds that a Common Council or County Board which is planning the erection of a public building shall have nothing to say about the naming of an architect; or, rather, about the selection of plans for the building. In the Sheboygan competition, the judges are to be members of the Common Council Building Committee, who, as the “Western Builder” says, “know nothing about architecture.” The magazine does not state where it got that information, but states that the Institute speaks hopefully of educating the public to its viewpoint; but it is hard to see how they are going to be able to prevent the owners of a building or their representatives, from deciding on the kind of a building that is wanted. The magazine concludes that the Institute’s warning to members has the flavor of indicating a combination in restraint of trade. The “Journal” is pleased to see that Mr. Schuchardt, of the Wisconsin Chapter, has taken up the subject with the two editors, and called their attention to the various errors shown in their newspapers, in letters which have been printed in other publications, THe RHODE ISLAND CHAPTER AND COMPETITIONS A noteworthy contribution on the subject of the Institute and its attitude toward compe- titions was the statement issued last September by the Rhode Island Chapter, signed by its then President, Howard Hoppin, and by its then Secretary, Norman M. Ishman. It was occa- sioned by a discussion in connection with the erection of a proposed Armory in Providence, and, being timely, was printed in Providence newspapers. Thus it reached the public itself— one of the parties vitally interested in the proper conducting of competitions. The full text of the statement was also printed in the “American Architect," of September 11, 1912, and in the "American School Board Journal" of November issue. The latter also made extensive reference in the same issue to the Institute's Code of Competitions. 5I
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS THE TAnsNEY Аст The defeat of the Tarsney Act, referred to elsewhere in this issue of the "Journal," was fully treated in a report of the Special Committee, over the signature of John Hall Rankin, Chairman. It appeared in the "American Architect" of October 2, 1912. "STANDARD CONTRACT Forms” Concerning the General Conditions of Specifications, and other kindred Standard Docu- ments of the Institute, the following, from the “Herald” of Yonkers, N. Y., is of interest: "Recently we noted that the American Institute of Architects announced the publication of standard forms for contracts and specifications. It is easy to see the many advantages of standardized documents of this kind, if they can be made to represent the best practice, and by their clearness, equity, and final interpretation in courts of law become generally under- stood and accepted by owners, architects, and builders, says the ‘Concrete Cement Age.’ "While, of necessity, the contractor must bear the burden of responsibility, the committee in drawing up these specifications has felt that in a great majority of instances the general conditions of contracts as individually drawn by various architects have been in certain respects unfair to the contractor; and even where clearly expressed and apparently binding on the face of the contracts, were not as a matter of equity enforcible in a court of law. Here- tofore it seems to have been assumed that all of the stringency of the contract is to be directed toward the contractor, and that the architect and owner are necessarily honorable persons. The new documents, however, are distinctly more binding upon the owner than such docu- ments have heretofore generally been, and distinctly more liberal to the contractor. Nor do they assume that the Architect's decision will, necessarily, in all cases, be equitable, and there- fore, instead of the very few matters which have been capable of arbitration, it is arranged that a number of classes of decisions made by the architect shall be subject to arbitration. A num- ber of specific instances of this attitude are found throughout the documents, which make specific provisions, for example, for the termination of the contract by the contractor, interest of past due payments, claim for extension of time, damage, and extra renumeration. "Certain members of the Committee have, during the past year or more, put into use forms substantially corresponding to the first standard edition of the Institute documents as now published, and they have appeared to stand well the test of actual use. Provision has been made by the Committee, however, for revisions by the Institute at intervals; and it is hoped that, as amended by use and the criticism of both architects and builders throughout the country, the Standard Documents of the American Institute of Architects will eventually become the basis of all building contracts, as well as a recognized code of procedure repre- senting the best practice of the profession." 52
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BOOK REVIEWS THE FLOWERS AND GARDENS OF JAPAN. Painted by Erma Du Cane. Described by FLORENCE Du Cane. Published by Adam & Charles Black, London. 50 colored illustrations. 249 pages of text. This book has a charm in its illustrations which immediately attracts the attention, for each combines good composition, harmony in color, and artistic combinations of flowers, trees, and water effects, with architectural adornments. | The text, while thoroughly practical and helpful to architects who wish to utilize the beauties of Japanese flowers, is, at the same time, written in a way to attract and hold atten- tion, centralizing on the poetry and pleasure of a harmonious utilization of these plants pro- vided for us by nature. First, it gives by text and illustration, house, nursery, landscape, and temple gardens, with reasons for their variation in treatment. Then it describes and illustrates garden orna- ments, fences, and bridges of stone and wood. After this general treatment, the flowers for which Japan is noted, are described, giving their characteristics, each most charmingly illustrated in color, with surroundings such as to make the dominant colors of the flowers most effective and attractive. It has treated in this way plum, peach, and cherry blossoms, the wistaria, peony, and azaleas, the iris, lotus, and the chrysanthemum and, finally, the maple, the bamboo, and the pine tree. Attention is called to the careful search made for the best pine tree or stone to fit into the garden scheme, and, when found, how stone or tree are frequently moved from long distances and transplanted to their proper niche. Architects will find this book most attractive and helpful in suggestions, and practical in its information. FIRE PREVENTION AND FIRE PROTECTION, As Applied to Building Construction. A Handbook of Theory and Practice. By ЈоѕеРН KENDALL FREITAG, B.S., С.Е. 1912. Published by John Wiley & Sons, New York. London, Chapman & Hall, Limited. 1,038 pages, 395 figures, including line and half-tone cuts. Morocco, $4 net. This work has been prepared to give a book of ready reference on questions relating to fire- resistance as applied to building construction. It is of practical value to architects. Tests of materials and experiences of value have been added for the benefit of students, in addition to the treatment of scientific principles. Attention is called to the fact that fire-resistance has been too often confounded with non- combustibility; when it really includes proper planning, auxiliary equipment, and the con- tents of the structure. Many quotations are given from reports and other sources, to show the best present-day opinion of those who have had the best opportunities of observing the follies of past experiences. PAMPHLETS RECEIVED DURING OCTOBER, 1912. Presented by the United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Washington, D. C. Fire-killed Douglas Fir. Bulletin, No. 112. The Absorption of Creosote by the Cell-Walls of Wood. Circular, No. 200. 53
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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS Presented by the Department of the Interior, Bureau of Mines, Washington, D. C. First National Mine-Safety Demonstration, Pittsburgh, Pa. October 30 and 31, 1911. Bulletin No. 44. Presented by the University of Pittsburgh, Department of Industrial Research, Pittsburgh, Pa. Outline of the Smoke Investigation. Bulletin No. 1, August, 1912. Presented by William Stanley Parker, Boston, Mass. A Masque of Architecture. December 31, 1910. Presented by the University of Illinois, Urbana, П. The Coking of Coal at Low Tempera- tures. Vol. IX, No. 30, June 3, 1912. Presented by the University of Texas, Austin, Texas Bulletin No. 176, March 22, 1911. Presented by Mr. Raymond Unwin, F.R.I.B.A., London, England. Nothing gained by Over- crowding! How the Garden City Type of Development may benefit both owner and occupier. 1912. Presented by the National Museum of Science and Art, Dublin, Ireland. The Museum’s Journal, Vol. 12, No. 2, August, 1912. SOCIETY PUBLICATIONS RECEIVED DURING OCTOBER, 1912. The Fine Arts Federation of New York, New York, N. Y. Calendar of Regular Meetings of the Art Organizations in New York City, October, 1912-October, 1913. The National Fire Protection Association, Boston, Mass. Tanneries; Suggestions for their Improvement as Fire Risks. 1912. Quarterly, Vol. 6, No. 1, July, 1912. Quarterly, Vol. 6, No. 2, October, 1912. List of Manufacturers of Fire Appliances. July, 1912. Suggested Ordinances to Regulate the Manufacture, Keeping, Storage, Sale, Use, and Transportation of Explosives, September, 1912. Proceedings of the Sixteenth Annual Meeting, Chicago, May 14, 15 and 16, 1912. The Manchester Society of Architects, Manchester, England. Kalendar. 1912-13. The Society of Architects, London, England. Journal, Vol. V, No. 60, October, 1912. The Architectural Association, London, England. Journal, Vol. XXVIII, No. 308, October, 1912. The Royal Society of Arts, London, England. Journal, Vol. LX, No. 3124, October 4, 1912. The Royal Victorian Institute of Architects, Melbourne, Australia. Journal, Vol. X, No. 4, September, 1912. Societe Centrale des Architectes Francais, Paris, France. L'Architecture. 25c Annee, No 40, 5 Octobre, 1912 to 25c Annee, No. 42, 19 Octobre, 1912. Societe degli Ingegneri e degli Architetti Italiani, Rome, Italy. Annali della Societe, Anno XXVII, No. 19, 1 Ottobre, 1912. Maatschappy tot Bevordering der Bonwkunst, Amsterdam, Holland. Bonwkundig Week- blad, 32 ste, Jaargang, No. 41, Zaterdag, 12 October, 1912 and No. 42, Zaterdag, 19 October, 1912.