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First textbook to mention house management
In 1879, Maria Parloa published "First Principles of Household Mangement and Cookery" which was the first book to discuss household management. -
Strong Economy
In 1900, the economy was strong and prices were low. It was a good time to be a consumer. -
Period: to
Pre-Modern (Early 1900s)
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Lake Placid Conference
Ellen H Richards guided discussions about scientific analysis and household management at a conference in New York. -
Invention of Automobile
By 1910, the automobile had completely changed the way of life. -
Massive Transformation
The period from 1885 to 1915 was a time of massive transformation. All the really major innovations came in during this time. -
Christine Fredrick
Author Christine Fredrick toured the United States and Europe on the lecture circuit discussing the new scientific methods of efficient home management and household production. Fredrick designed a model kitchen in her home that is on display at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History. -
Chrome, Metal, and Glass
By 1920, Chrome, Metal, and Glass were the primary products used in homes. -
Lillian Gilbreth
Author Lillian Gilbreth toured the United States and Europe on the lecture circuit discussing new scientific methods of efficient home management and household production. She and her husband had twelve children which were portrayed in the book "Cheaper by the Dozen." -
Central Air-Conditioning
Central Air-Conditioning was the primary source of cooling homes. -
Expansion of Education
Students graduated from high school and then went to work in towns and factories -
Indoor plumbing and Electricity
By the 1950s, most homes had indoor plumbing, electricity, a modern kitchen, and laundry equipment. -
Ranch Style Homes
New ranch style homes with large picture windows in the front were the new style. -
Period: to
Modern (1950s-1990s)
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First Swanson TV Dinner
In 1954, the first Swanson TV Dinner was sold. -
Introduction to the Casual Lifestyle
Fondue pots, shag rugs, conversation pits in living rooms, and barbecue pits became the new style. Bright colors filled homes as well as color televisions. -
Country Style Decor
In the 1970s and the 1980s, country style decor, quilts, and collectibles became popular. -
Introduction to technology in the household
In the 1990s, computer and appliance technology filled households. -
Period: to
Postmodern (Early 21st Century)
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Three-car garages
18 percent of households had three-car garages in 2001. -
Size in Average Home
By 2006, the average new American home was 2,434 square feet with four bedrooms and four bathrooms. Computers, cell phones, and the Internet have all be introduced to the American families. -
Go Green
After 2010, home design focused on the new concept of 'going green'.
