ABSTRACT
This chapter begins a study of the roots of American architecture one must examine the philosophical context of the early beginnings of architecture in the colonies. The two colonies surrounded the Chesapeake, but their differing styles of embracing the waterway had a considerable influence on the development of an American style of architecture. The differences between the two colonies are clearly illustrated by the contrast between their two capitals. It had been founded as Providence in 1649 by Puritans who fled to Maryland from Virginia because of the threat of severe punishment by the Anglican royal governor if they did not convert to the Anglican Church. Annapolis, having been a merchant town on the water before becoming the capital, has a somewhat more playful look to it. Unlike Marylanders, the prominent Virginians did not live in cities but rather on the plantation estates created by the early settlers and indentured servants.
