Benjamin Henry Latrobe

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Benjamin Henry Latrobe by Filippo Costaggini

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Latrobe Gate, Washington Navy Yard

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Benjamin Henry Latrobe (May 1, 1764 – September 3, 1820) was a British-born American architect who is best known for his design of the United States Capitol, in Washington, D.C. He is often referred to as the "Father of American Architecture" and played a significant role in establishing the Greek Revival and Neoclassical architectural styles in the United States. Latrobe's contributions to architecture extend beyond the Capitol, including designing many other public buildings, churches, and private residences.

Early Life and Education

Benjamin Henry Latrobe was born on May 1, 1764, in Fulneck Moravian Settlement, Yorkshire, England, to the Reverend Benjamin Latrobe and Anna Margaretta Antes. He was educated at the Moravian schools in Fulneck, England, and Niesky, Germany, before studying at the Royal Academy in London. Latrobe initially trained under the neoclassical architect Samuel Pepys Cockerell, which greatly influenced his architectural style.

Career

In 1796, after working on various projects in England and briefly in France, Latrobe emigrated to the United States, settling in Virginia. He quickly established himself as an architect and engineer, and his first major commission in the United States was the Virginia State Penitentiary, which showcased his innovative use of skylights and ventilation systems.

Latrobe's reputation grew, and in 1803, he was appointed Surveyor of the Public Buildings of the United States by President Thomas Jefferson, a role in which he oversaw the construction of the United States Capitol. His work on the Capitol included designing the House and Senate chambers and introducing significant architectural innovations.

Apart from his work on the Capitol, Latrobe was involved in numerous other projects, including the design of the Baltimore Basilica, the first Roman Catholic Cathedral constructed in the United States, and the Bank of Pennsylvania, which is considered one of the earliest examples of Greek Revival architecture in America.

Legacy

Benjamin Henry Latrobe died on September 3, 1820, in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he had been working on the waterworks project. His legacy lives on through his contributions to American architecture, particularly in the establishment of the Greek Revival and Neoclassical styles. Latrobe's influence can be seen in the work of subsequent architects and in the buildings that continue to stand as testaments to his vision and skill.

Selected Works

• United States Capitol, Washington, D.C.
• Baltimore Basilica, Baltimore, Maryland
• Bank of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Virginia State Penitentiary, Richmond, Virginia

See Also

• Architecture of the United States
• Greek Revival architecture
• Neoclassical architecture