RANCH-O-RAMA: THE RANCH HOUSE IN AMERICAN SUBURBAN CULTURE
Kristin U. Fedders, Earlham College and R. Stephen Sennott, Lake Forest College

In anticipation of the March 2001 conference “Redefining Suburban Studies: Searching for a New Paradigm,” organized by Hofstra University Libraries, Long Island Studies Institute, and the Hofstra Cultural Center, we are seeking proposals for an interdisciplinary session dedicated to the American ranch house. Available in varied construction materials and designed to meet regional design traditions, both promoters and buyers of this adaptable house type believed that the ranch house provided an informal, spacious, modern way of living. Published in plan books and popular magazines, floor plans and renderings suggest "a more satisfying way of living" in the American post-World War II suburbs. For this panel, we welcome cultural and architectural topics exploring various meanings assigned to the ranch house in its suburban landscape. We invite historians and critics from the humanities, the social sciences, and other disciplines to consider topics such as family and gender roles, product and interior design, materials and technology, garden and landscape, recreation and leisure, representations of the ranch house in television, movies, advertising, and literature, as well as other assorted myths and images associated with this ubiquitous house form and the lifestyle of its inhabitants.

In order to meet the conference deadline (Sept. 30), please send via USPS or email a one-page abstract and a current curriculum vitae postmarked not later than August 15, 2000 to both chairs.

DEADLINES:
ABSTRACT: AUGUST 15, 2000
NOTIFICATION: SEPTEMBER 1, 2000
COMPLETED TEXT TO SESSION CHAIRS: MARCH 1, 2001