Stuff You Should Know SYSK Selects: What Is a Shotgun House?
Aug 10, 2019
Discover the intriguing world of shotgun houses, iconic and narrow architectural gems of American culture. Unravel their mysterious origins, deeply rooted in New Orleans and African-American heritage. Delve into their unique design features and the challenges of preservation post-Hurricane Katrina. Explore their social significance that fosters community bonding and cultural interaction. Finally, enjoy a nostalgic twist with stories from a legendary concert tour, connecting music, memory, and architecture.
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Katrina and Architectural Loss
- Hurricane Katrina raised concerns about the loss of shotgun houses.
- This modest housing style is a significant contribution of African Americans to American architecture.
Shotgun House Features
- Shotgun houses are long, narrow homes with all rooms in a straight line.
- The name may come from the ability to shoot a shotgun through the house without hitting walls.
Artistic Flourishes
- Despite being modest, shotgun houses feature artistic details like ornate vents and brackets.
- This reflects pride in ownership, not emulation of white styles.