- Wood clapboard siding
- Simple rectangular or L shape
- Decorative brackets under the eaves
- Porches with spindles or other machine-made decorations
- Flat, jigsaw cut trim
During the mid-1800s, industrialization and the growth of railroads meant that decorative architectural trim could be mass produced and sent to remote corners of the USA. Also, smaller towns could obtain sophisticated woodworking machinery. Builders began to apply machine-made decorative details to simple farmhouses (sometimes called National Style houses).
Many Folk Victorian houses were adorned with flat, jigsaw cut trim in a variety of patterns. Others had spindles, gingerbread, and details borrowed from the Gothic Revival style.
With their spindles and porches, some Folk Victorian homes may suggest Queen Anne architecture. But unlike Queen Annes, these are orderly, symmetrical houses. They do not have towers, bay windows or elaborate moldings. Related Styles: