"Henry Austin" and "Shaker Design" Win Book Awards

Historic New England has awarded its 15th annual Book Prize to Henry Austin: In Every Variety of Architectural Style by James F. O'Gorman. The book is an introduction to one of New England's most prolific architects, Henry Austin (1804-1891), who practiced in New Haven, Connecticut, for more than 50 years, producing numerous public, commercial, ecclesiastic, and domestic buildings throughout New England. Austin designed buildings in numerous Victorian styles, ranging from Italianate and Classical to the Gothic Revival, and many are included in the illustrated book. O'Gorman is the Grace Slack McNeil Professor Emeritus at Wellesley College and author of numerous works on architectural history.

Shaker Design: Out of this World, edited by Jean M. Burks, was named an Honor Book. Seven experts explore how the Shakers' belief, particularly the principles of utility, honesty, and order, impacted the sect's distinctive design through to its influence on mid-20th-century design, most notably Danish modern and Japanese furniture. Jean Burks, senior curator at Shelburne Museum, is the author of three definitive books on Shaker furniture.

The Historic New England Book Prize recognizes books or catalogs that advance the understanding of the architecture, landscape, and material culture of New England and the United States from the 17th century to the present. This includes works on the decorative arts, archaeology, historic preservation, and the history of photography.

For more information, visit Historic New England's Web site (www.HistoricNewEngland.org).

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