The text reads:

"The word Architecture is generally used to describe particular kinds of buildings; people have not been quite willing to use it in connection with other structures; but the word Architecture should stand for the whole Fine Art of Building. Along with the Libraries, Banks, and Dwellings, the word Architecture should be allowed to include Bridges and Factories and Steamships.

Architecture has so far felt little thrill at the idea of America, but in great civic and engineering works, unconscious of Art, as in most of the common useful things about us, people are beginning to recognize the especial qualityof a native way of building things, which may be called American Architecture."

   Collection: William Gray Purcell Papers, Northwest Architectural Archives, University of Minnesota [AR:P&E 348].

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research courtesy mark hammons