The structures of provincialism: Britain's many voices in the colonies

Abstract

Britain's eighteenth-century North American colonies were certainly provinces of the empire, but it remains unclear how these provincial societies developed amidst the influence of English fashions, customs, and styles. Traditional views that the American colonies had cultures simply derivative of Britain are inadequate, because they presume a single, monolithic imperial culture, which Americans either absorbed or rejected. In practice, Americans chose from different and even contradictory cultural sources, not passively mimicking styles, but consciously selecting elements of English culture to suit their provincial purposes. Two wealthy Protestant congregations in eighteenth-century New England exemplify this process, adapting different English architectural styles in a competition for local prestige. In 1726 Boston's minority Anglican community completed the London inspired Christ Church, then the largest and tallest structure in the capital of New England Puritanism. One might have expected the costly building to rankle the Congregationalist majority, who held to Reformed Protestant tradition by refusing crosses, wedding rings, and even the title of “church” for their houses of worship. However, by the decade's close Boston's prestigious third Congregational society built the Old South Meetinghouse, nearly identical to Christ Church in its impressive brick exterior, but larger and taller. More than just a pursuit of London finery, both sects selectively incorporated elements of English architecture, hoping to project a sophisticated identity that would attract new members without offending Boston's Puritan aesthetic tradition. Sects used the height and stately form of the church exteriors to symbolize their prominence, while avoiding idolatrous or immodest flourishes. Inside, the designs reinforced each sect's distinct values, creating a unique churchgoing experience for attendees. The complex process of adapting English styles also produced unexpected results. As the provincial congregations financed their expensive constructions, they created tensions and social changes within their membership, altering the practice and image of their faiths.