One of the best ways to learn to observe, understand and appreciate old buildings is to stand in front of one and examine all of its parts and details. Lancaster offers limitless opportunities for children of all ages -- and their parents or teachers -- to study historic buildings in order to learn how to analyze component parts and decorative details.

Architectural details of some sort can be found on all buildings, from the simplest to the most ornate. While buildings may have basic elements in common (such as a roof, doors and windows), different types of ornamentation set individual buildings apart. Ornament can also be deliberately repeated on a row of adjoining houses, which helps to visually unify the block. The great variety of architectural styles to be found throughout Lancaster's historic neighborhoods help make the city a truly unique place.

Lancaster's historic neighborhoods are filled with buildings that communicate ideas without words. Children no doubt see and understand more than they realize; they just need to learn how to describe what they see. To become more comfortable scrutinizing and describing buildings, children can refer to the Illustrated Glossary of Architectural Terms. Then, have them go outside and examine a particular house. It might be their own home, a house in the neighborhood that they like, or one of Lancaster's landmark buildings. (A house is perhaps the simplest form of architecture that all children can relate to in some way.)

Two different fieldwork forms are available here to help children look carefully at details and describe what they see. For younger children, My House Counts (PDF format) will help them analyze shapes, patterns, and functions. For older children, the Building Survey (PDF format) form will help them to differentiate stylistic details and materials.