American Construction Industry

Brian Bowen retired as president of Hanscomb Inc. in 2000 after a career in England, Canada and the United States. From that time, he supported the College of Architecture at the Georgia Institute of Technology in various capacities and was appointed a Professor in the Practice of Construction Management. His focus has been on researching and teaching Construction History. In 2008 he formed the Construction History Society of America.

"Architects, builders, and those with an interest in industrial history will appreciate this definitive book—revealing our practices from the earliest of times to the present in a narrative both entertaining and informative." –A. Peter Hilger, Morse Distinguished University Teacher, University of Minnesota"Brian Bowen’s The American Construction Industry is a much-needed corrective to architectural history, placing contractors and builders at the center of the long story of building construction. Relying on his background in the industry and using illuminating examples of contracts, correspondence, and other key documents across eras, Bowen explains the combined effects of economics, the law, labor, and professional organization, among others, in realizing both grand monuments and everyday dwellings. Essential as a reference and enlightening as a narrative." –Thomas Leslie, Morrill Professor in Architecture, Iowa State University"Professor Bowen’s manuscript provides important background and context for understanding the origins of the American construction industry. This meticulously researched book helps readers understand how the early craftsmen and builders of the colonial area evolved into the industry that has constructed the world’s largest and most sophisticated economy." –Brian Turmail, Vice President of Public Affairs and Strategic Initiatives, Associated General Contractors of America

• Chapter 1.An Overview of the Construction Industry TodayChapter 2.Classical TimesChapter 3.Medieval Times – The Foundation of the IndustryChapter 4.The Renaissance 1350 – 1600Chapter 5.17th Century EnglandChapter 6.The American Colonies 17th C.Chapter 7.Industrial Revolution – Great Britain 18th C.Chapter 8.American Colonies 18th C.Chapter 9.Developments in the New Republic - 1783 to the Civil WarChapter 10.USA from Civil War to 1900Chapter 11.20th Century to World War IIChapter 12World War II to the Present TimeChapter 13.Some ConclusionsChapter 14.The Future