PETER HARRISON

A competent and needed biography of America's pre-Revolutionary architect, Peter Harrison, who, because of his Toryism and the resulting destruction of his personal property, has been little known or researched. This is a documented, illustrated account of his career, from middle class Quaker in England, to merchantman and gentleman of arts and learning in the new country, to architect and customs collector of New Haven, which explains his progress with thorough understanding. It follows his derivation and adaptation in architectural forms, describes in available detail, his work from Rhode Island, to Charles Town, S.C., from churches to markets and synagogues, places him as Jefferson's predecessor in introducing the classic pattern in this country. A handsome and useful book in its field.