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"95% perfect" : $b The older residences at Nantucket

Written by Everett Uberto Crosby

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About this book

"95% Perfect: The Older Residences at Nantucket" by Everett Uberto Crosby is a detailed analysis and examination of the architectural heritage of Nantucket, written in the late 1930s. This non-fiction publication focuses on the unique style of older houses on the island, emphasizing their historical significance and the effort needed to preserve their integrity. The book serves as both a tribute to Nantucket's architectural legacy and a guide for preserving its historical residences. Crosby's analysis identifies various architectural styles from three main periods, showcasing distinctive features common to Nantucket's older houses. He provides a census that catalogs architectural characteristics such as foundation types, window designs, and roof styles, drawing connections to the island's cultural influences, including Quaker simplicity and the impact of prosperity from the whaling industry. Through a combination of illustrations, photographs, and descriptions, the book argues for the importance of maintaining the authenticity of these homes to promote continued appreciation of Nantucket's unique architectural landscape.

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Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in "95% perfect" : $b The older residences at Nantucket, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 10 hours
  • intermediate
  • informative
  • historical
  • descriptive

Everett Uberto Crosby's "95% perfect": The older residences at Nantucket is a meticulous non-fiction study dedicated to the architectural heritage and historical significance of Nantucket's pre-Civil War homes. The book systematically documents the evolution of building styles, construction techniques, and the stories embedded within these structures, offering a deep dive into the island's unique residential landscape. It serves as an invaluable resource for historians, architects, and anyone interested in the preservation and understanding of Nantucket's distinctive identity through its built environment. Crosby's work emphasizes the enduring quality and aesthetic appeal of these older residences, presenting them as cultural artifacts.

The enduring quality of Nantucket's pre-Civil War homes speaks to a tradition of craftsmanship and an inherent understanding of place.

Key themes

Historical Preservation
This theme explores the critical importance of maintaining and protecting architectural heritage. The book likely details not just the original construction but also the subsequent efforts to conserve these homes, highlighting the value of historical structures as tangible links to the past and as essential components of a community's identity. It underscores the challenges of balancing modernization with the imperative to retain authenticity.
Architectural Evolution and Regional Style
The book meticulously traces the development of architectural styles on Nantucket, from early colonial influences to later periods, illustrating how broader trends were adapted to the island's unique environment, resources, and cultural context. It highlights the emergence of a distinctive 'Nantucket style' that blends practicality with aesthetic appeal, reflecting the island's maritime history and isolation.
Community Identity and Sense of Place
The book explores how the collective architecture of Nantucket contributes to its distinctive sense of place and reinforces the island's unique community identity. The uniformity and consistency of the older residences, alongside their individual stories, create a cohesive historical landscape that defines Nantucket's character and attracts visitors and residents alike. This theme examines how built environments foster a collective memory and shared heritage.

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What defines the '95% perfect' quality in Nantucket's older residences, and how does this concept apply to historical preservation in general?

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