Many communities dotting the Great Plains initially grew and flourished in the early 20th century – roughly the same time period which saw the Arts and Crafts movement blossom. Therefore, its not surprising that the Craftsman style was quite popular in these growing towns.
Readily identifiable characteristics of the style include typically low-pitched gable roofs with deep eaves supported by triangular brackets. Exposed rafter tails (as opposed to boxed eaves) are classic Craftsman. Windows are frequently double-hung, with the top sash being divided in vertical panes without horizontal muntins. Porches are often deep and bulky, with squat piers supporting battered (tapered) posts. Exteriors may be covered in clapboards, shingles, stucco, brick or stone.
Many of these houses survive today – some common and modest examples are shown here:
The recessed porch is a nice feature. Note the foundation of concrete block which was cast to resemble two horizontal stones.
This well-maintained Craftsman has handsome stepped corbels in lieu of the more typical triangular bracket. The louvered shutters are not original and not part of the Craftsman aesthetic.
This house combines clapboard and shingles to good effect.
This house is unusual in that its stucco exterior has never been painted. It still looks great!
Though the porch has been enclosed, this house otherwise also retains a high degree of originality including the stucco finish.
This example is noteworthy for its paired brackets at the gable peak, shaped ends of both fascias and rafters, and clapboard-sheathed porch posts.