Someday I may have a Porch

"Porches are as synonymous with American culture as apple pie. While not unknown in colonial times, they rose to nationwide popularity in the decades before the Civil War, and remained in fashion for almost one hundred years. Ironically, the very social and technological forces that made them both popular and possible were eventually responsible for their decline." -- from Kahn, Preserving Porches

American Front Porch, Bald Head Island, North Carolina

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When most Americans had front porches, and used them, nobody thought much about "A front Porch".  The front porch was just there and open addition that belonged to no one and to everyone. 

I try not to want for things so much that I lose sight of being appreciative of what I have.  I fail miserably though when it comes to a large front porch.  I love them and I want one. 

I love the history of the 1700's through the mid 1900's.  Much of my reading materials cover these time periods.  I love the simpler times, the struggles, the challenges, the resilience of the people of these times. 


On EVERY ride I search for the houses with the desired porches.  This is another structure that triggers abundant memories.

The front porch sets a scene for many memory makers.  It was the space that a young couple,just courting would sit.  A place where a Grandma and mama would sit and snap beans, or shuck peas.  A gathering place for the family while daddy turns the crank on the ice cream maker as everyone eagerly awaits that first taste.  Many a glass of lemonade is enjoyed on the front porch.

The porch represented the amercian ideal of family.  It was an outdoor living room.  Often the family would retire there after a long day of hard work.  As the evening air cooled the family could gather there. The children would play in the front yard while the parents rocked.  This simple front porch kept families united.
They may have shared stories or sung songs together. 

The porch started its fall out of grace right around the end of World War II. The advent of air conditioning, automobiles, and a change in social patterns all contributed toward the porch’s slide. It lost its social function because Americans increasingly wanted privacy.

After World War II much of the socialization that was previously front porch activities was moved to the family room or t.v room.  The front porch started to sit alone.

I am not sure what the attraction is now for those that desire front porches.  For me I think it is not only the structure, presenting itself as a place from earlier times that I so love, but an implication that in this space I will sit, I will have quiet time with God, I will relax with friends, I will connect with neighbors. And lets be honest here too- It will give me yet another place to decorate!

So if I am every fortunate enough to be given the gift of a front porch- PLEASE stop by and sit a spell and I will be sure to have some fresh squeezed lemonade ready for you!