The History of Mid-Century Ranches in Middle America

This week, lets get into the history of mid-century ranches in the midwest. After all, it helps to know where we’re coming from before we plan where to go next.

The main message here is that history happens in a context. The materials, style, choices, and culture that add up to a mid-century ranch all come from somewhere.

We'll cover:

• Why MCM history matters to a Mid Mod Remodeler
• Where the term "Mid-Century Modern" comes from
• How International Modernism and Frank Lloyd Wright set up the style
• The basics of the Post War Building Boom
• The dark side of MCM history (it's racism)
• The culture war of modernist vs traditional designs in the Mid-Century mind
• Cliff May and the California ranch
• The basics of any early Mid Mod home
• How to learn the history of your home and region

Knowing the history, helps us recognize what’s still important about our homes (and what might not be). Knowing what’s important to you will help you streamline decisions about remodeling your house.

Find full show notes and links to resources mentioned at midmod-midwest.com/002.