Published on: August 26th, 2024

Why America Needs Classical Architecture

On July 30th, we held our AWC lecture on “Why America Needs Classical Architecture” at the Heritage Foundation. We were delighted to have guest speakers Casey Leigh and James McCrey.

Leigh and McCrey discuss the history of American architecture and the importance of revitalizing classical architecture with its distinct beauty, history, and artistry.

Shaun Rieley, Director of Educational Programs at Hillsdale in D.C., comments “This is a topic that has been of increasing interest in the public conversation, as people become more aware of the deep influence that the built environment can have on our political and social life and we were happy to host Mr. Catesby Leigh and Professor James McCrery, two of the leading minds on the revival of the classical tradition in architecture. The examination of the impact of the classical tradition on American architecture and the distinctive contribution of American architecture to that tradition were fascinating and generated a number of interesting questions from the audience.”

Casey Leigh writes about public art and architecture, urbanism and fine art, and his work is featured in a wide range of publications including The Wall Street Journal. Professor James McCrery is the founding principal of McCrery Architects, and architecture professor at the Catholic University of America.

Watch the full clip of this lecture here!

About Hillsdale in D.C.

Hillsdale in D.C. is an extension of the teaching mission of Hillsdale College to Washington, D.C. Its purpose is to teach the Constitution and the principles that give it meaning. Through the study of original source documents from American history—and of older books that formed the education of America’s founders—it seeks to inspire students, teachers, citizens, and policymakers to return the America’s principles to their central place in the political life of the nation.

About Hillsdale College

Hillsdale College is an independent liberal arts college located in southern Michigan. Founded in 1844, the College has built a national reputation through its classical liberal arts core curriculum and its principled refusal to accept federal or state taxpayer subsidies, even indirectly in the form of student grants or loans. It also conducts an outreach effort promoting civil and religious liberty, including a free monthly speech digest, Imprimis, with a circulation of more than 5.7 million. For more information, visit hillsdale.edu.