Back in Time Today
The Americas boast a rich architectural heritage, with buildings that have withstood the test of time. Spanning from the early 17th century to the late 19th century, these structures offer a glimpse into the diverse cultures and histories of the continent.
From religious missions to military forts, each building tells its unique story of resilience and adaptation. Join us on a journey through time as we explore 50 remarkable ancient American buildings that are still standing today.
1. Joel Eddins House, Alabama
Nestled in Huntsville, Alabama, the Joel Eddins House is a beautifully preserved hall-and-parlor log cabin dating back to 1810. Originally built in Ardmore, this historic structure was relocated to Burritt on the Mountain, where it has become a cherished piece of local heritage. The house embodies early American frontier architecture, with its simplistic yet practical design. Visitors are drawn to its rustic charm and the stories it holds from a bygone era, offering a tangible link to the past.
2. Kodiak History Museum (Baranov Museum), Alaska
Kodiak History Museum, known as the Baranov Museum, stands as a testament to Alaska’s Russian-American past. Constructed circa 1810 as a warehouse, this building is one of the oldest of its kind in the state. Visitors experience a unique blend of Russian architecture and Alaskan heritage. The weathered wooden facade and the museum’s exhibits offer insights into the region’s rich history and cultural exchanges. It remains a significant symbol of Kodiak’s early development.
3. Mission San Xavier del Bac, Arizona
Mission San Xavier del Bac, near Tucson, Arizona, is a stunning example of Spanish Catholic mission architecture. Built between 1783 and 1797, it is often referred to as the ‘White Dove of the Desert.’ The mission’s intricate facade and detailed interiors captivate visitors and reflect the artistic styles of the period. This structure is not only a place of worship but also a cultural landmark that illustrates the blending of Spanish and Native American influences in the region.
4. Jacob Wolf House, Arkansas
In Norfork, Arkansas, the Jacob Wolf House stands as a rare example of a two-story dogtrot log house, built in 1829. This architectural style, characterized by an open breezeway between two enclosed cabins, reflects early American ingenuity. The house was a central hub for community gatherings and commerce during its heyday. Today, it serves as a historical site, inviting visitors to explore its unique design and learn about the pioneering spirit of the region’s early settlers.
5. Mission San Diego de Alcalá, California
Mission San Diego de Alcalá, established in 1769, is the first of the 21 California missions. Situated in San Diego, this Franciscan mission was founded by Father Junípero Serra. Its iconic bell tower and arched corridors are architectural highlights. The mission played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity and the cultural transformation of the native Kumeyaay people. As a designated historic landmark, it continues to attract visitors interested in California’s rich mission history.
6. Old Fort Garland, Colorado
Old Fort Garland, established in 1858, served as a pivotal military post in Colorado’s San Luis Valley. Constructed to protect settlers from Native American tribes, the fort comprises adobe buildings that reflect military architectural styles of the time. Today, it functions as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into life at the fort through preserved structures and exhibits. The fort’s strategic location and historical significance make it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
7. Henry Whitfield House, Connecticut
In Guilford, Connecticut, the Henry Whitfield House stands as the oldest stone house in New England, built in 1639. Originally serving as a home for Reverend Henry Whitfield and a refuge for Puritans, the house is a testament to early colonial architecture. Its thick stone walls and steeply pitched roof are defining features. Now a museum, the house offers visitors an intimate look at 17th-century life and the challenges faced by early settlers in the New World.
8. Ryves Holt House, Delaware
The Ryves Holt House, situated in Lewes, Delaware, is considered the oldest surviving house in the state, built in 1665. This colonial-style home has witnessed centuries of change and adaptation. Originally serving as an inn and residence, the house’s enduring structure captivates those interested in architectural history. Today, it serves as a museum, allowing visitors to explore its well-preserved rooms and learn about the early European settlers who shaped the region.
9. Castillo de San Marcos, Florida
Castillo de San Marcos, located in St. Augustine, Florida, is a symbol of Spanish colonial power. Constructed from coquina stone between 1672 and 1695, it is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. The fort’s design reflects European military engineering principles, with thick walls and bastions offering defense against attackers. Today, it serves as a National Monument, drawing visitors to explore its ramparts and learn about its role in the tumultuous colonial history of Florida.
10. Ocmulgee Earth Lodge, Georgia
The Ocmulgee Earth Lodge, near Macon, Georgia, is a remarkable example of ancient Native American architecture. Constructed around 1000 CE, this earth lodge served as a council chamber for the Mississippian culture. Its subterranean design and intricate clay floor with a bird effigy reflect the artistic and spiritual significance of the site. Visitors can explore the lodge and gain insight into the complex social and ceremonial life of the indigenous peoples who inhabited the area over a millennium ago.
11. Frame House (Ka Hale Laʻau), Hawaii
Ka Hale Laʻau, also known as the Frame House, is the oldest wood-frame structure in Hawaii, located in Honolulu. Built in 1821 by missionaries, it symbolizes the early Western influence on Hawaiian architecture. The house’s simple design, with its wooden construction and modest dimensions, offers a contrast to the grand architectures that followed. As a preserved historical site, it provides visitors a glimpse into the daily life and cultural interactions of early 19th-century Hawaii.
12. Cataldo Mission, Idaho
The Cataldo Mission, or Mission of the Sacred Heart, is Idaho’s oldest standing building, constructed in 1853 by Jesuit missionaries. Located in Cataldo, this mission reflects the blend of European and Native American craftsmanship. Its wooden construction and scenic setting offer a serene glimpse into the region’s early religious and cultural exchanges. As a historical site, the mission invites visitors to explore its peaceful grounds and learn about the missionaries’ enduring legacy in the American Northwest.
13. Cahokia Courthouse, Illinois
Cahokia Courthouse, dating back to around 1740, is a rare example of French colonial architecture in Illinois. Originally built as a private residence, it later served as a courthouse, playing a crucial role in the region’s legal history. The building’s timber-frame construction and steep roof are characteristic of the period. Today, it functions as a museum, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore the cultural influences that shaped the early colonial Midwest.
14. Grouseland, Indiana
Grouseland, located in Vincennes, Indiana, was the home of William Henry Harrison, the ninth U.S. President. Built in 1804, this Federal-style mansion reflects the elegance of its time. The house’s symmetrical design and refined interiors stand in contrast to the frontier surroundings. As a National Historic Landmark, Grouseland offers a vivid insight into early 19th-century American politics and domestic life, serving as a testament to Harrison’s impact on the nation’s westward expansion.
15. Louis Arriandeaux Log House, Iowa
The Louis Arriandeaux Log House in Dubuque County, Iowa, is a rare surviving example of double log cabin construction from 1833. This home highlights the resourcefulness of early settlers, with its sturdy log walls and twin cabin design. The structure served various roles, from a residence to a trading post. Visitors to the site can explore its rustic charm and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by Iowa’s pioneering communities.
16. El Quartelejo Ruins, Kansas
El Quartelejo Ruins in Scott County, Kansas, are remnants of the northernmost Native American pueblo. Dating back to approximately 1650, these ruins offer a glimpse into the lives of Plains Apache and Puebloan peoples. The site represents a unique cultural exchange, where Puebloan refugees from the Spanish Southwest sought sanctuary. Today, El Quartelejo serves as an archaeological site, allowing visitors to explore these ancient foundations and learn about the region’s diverse indigenous heritage.
17. Old Talbott Tavern, Kentucky
The Old Talbott Tavern in Bardstown, Kentucky, is a storied landmark with roots tracing back to 1779. Known for its hospitality and history, the tavern has welcomed notable figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Jesse James. Its colonial architecture and period furnishings transport visitors to a bygone era. As one of the oldest western stagecoach stops still in operation, the tavern continues to be a vibrant gathering place, preserving the stories and spirit of Kentucky’s early days.
18. Ursuline Convent, Louisiana
The Ursuline Convent in New Orleans, Louisiana, is the oldest surviving example of French colonial architecture in the city. Built in 1748, this structure served as a convent and school for young women. Its elegant design and well-preserved interiors reflect the cultural richness of the French Quarter. As a National Historic Landmark, the convent invites visitors to explore its storied halls and learn about the Ursuline nuns’ contributions to education and community life in colonial Louisiana.
19. McIntire Garrison House, Maine
The McIntire Garrison House in York, Maine, is a fascinating example of fortified colonial architecture, dating back to 1707. This log garrison house served as a refuge for settlers during Native American conflicts. Its robust construction, with thick wooden walls and small windows, reflects the defensive needs of the time. Today, the house stands as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and the challenges of frontier life in New England.
20. Old Trinity Church, Maryland
Old Trinity Church, located in Church Creek, Maryland, is a charming Anglican church built around 1675. It is one of the oldest churches still in use in the United States. The church’s simple wooden structure and peaceful setting offer a glimpse into the spiritual life of early American colonists. As a living historical landmark, it continues to serve its congregation while inviting visitors to appreciate its architectural beauty and historical significance in the heart of Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
21. Fairbanks House, Massachusetts
The Fairbanks House in Dedham, Massachusetts, is recognized as the oldest timber-frame house in North America, built in 1640. This remarkable structure was home to eight generations of the Fairbanks family. Its sturdy frame and steeply pitched roof are characteristic of early colonial architecture. Now a museum, the house offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the domestic life of early New England settlers and the enduring legacy of one of the region’s founding families.
22. Officers’ Stone Quarters, Michigan
The Officers’ Stone Quarters, part of Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, Michigan, date back to 1780. This stone structure housed officers during the fort’s active military years. Its robust construction and strategic location highlight the military significance of Mackinac Island. Today, the quarters are part of a museum complex, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s military past and the role it played in the defense of the Great Lakes region during pivotal moments in American history.
23. Fort Snelling, Minnesota
Fort Snelling, established in 1820, is a historic military fort located at the confluence of the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers. This fort played a critical role in the early expansion of the U.S. into the Northwest Territory. Its stone construction and strategic positioning underscore its military importance. Today, Fort Snelling serves as a state park and historic site, where visitors can explore its preserved structures and learn about its storied past and impact on the region’s development.
24. LaPointe-Krebs House, Mississippi
The LaPointe-Krebs House in Pascagoula, Mississippi, is the oldest surviving French colonial structure in the state, dating back to around 1757. This charming home is a relic of the Gulf Coast’s colonial past, with its French architectural elements and resilient construction. It has served various purposes over the centuries, from a family residence to a medical office. Today, the house is a museum, offering insights into the French influence on the region’s culture and architecture.
25. Louis Bolduc House, Missouri
The Louis Bolduc House in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, is a beautifully preserved example of French colonial architecture, dating back to around 1792. This house reflects the traditional poteaux-sur-sol construction method, with vertical logs resting on a stone foundation. Its elegant design and well-preserved interiors showcase the lifestyle of early French settlers. As a museum, the house invites visitors to explore the unique cultural blend and architectural heritage of Missouri’s first European settlement.
26. Old Fort Benton Blockhouse, Montana
Old Fort Benton Blockhouse, constructed in 1847, is a remnant of the fur trading post era along the Missouri River in Montana. This blockhouse served as a defensive structure during the height of the fur trade. Its robust wooden design and strategic location underline its importance in protecting traders and settlers. Today, it stands as a testament to the rugged history of the American West, offering visitors a glimpse into the vibrant and often tumultuous frontier life of the 19th century.
27. Fort Atkinson, Nebraska
Fort Atkinson, established in 1820, was the first U.S. Army post west of the Missouri River, located in Nebraska. This fort played a critical role in securing the frontier and facilitating westward expansion. Its strategic position and military architecture reflect the challenges faced by early pioneers. Today, Fort Atkinson is a state historical park, where visitors can explore reconstructed buildings and learn about the fort’s pivotal role in shaping the American frontier during the early 19th century.
28. Old Mormon Fort, Nevada
Old Mormon Fort, established in 1855, marks the first permanent non-native settlement in the Las Vegas area. Constructed by Mormon missionaries, the adobe fort provided a vital link between Salt Lake City and the settlements of California. Its thick walls and strategic location offered protection and a place of rest for travelers. Today, the site is a state historic park, inviting visitors to explore the beginnings of Las Vegas and the fort’s role in the region’s early development.
29. Richard Jackson House, New Hampshire
Richard Jackson House in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is the state’s oldest wood-frame house, constructed in 1664. This remarkable building reflects the early colonial architectural style, with its gabled roof and timber-frame construction. The house has undergone various modifications over the centuries but remains a testament to the craftsmanship and resilience of early settlers. As a museum, it offers visitors a chance to explore the domestic life and architectural heritage of New Hampshire’s colonial past.
30. C.A. Nothnagle Log House, New Jersey
The C.A. Nothnagle Log House in Gibbstown, New Jersey, is one of the oldest log cabins in the United States, built around 1638. This quaint dwelling showcases the simplicity and resourcefulness of early American frontier life. Its hand-hewn logs and rustic charm provide a window into the past. Despite its age, the cabin remains remarkably well-preserved, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the early colonial lifestyle and the enduring legacy of log cabin construction in America.
31. Taos Pueblo, New Mexico
Taos Pueblo in New Mexico is a living testament to the ancient Puebloan culture, with its origins tracing back to around 1000 CE. This adobe complex has been continuously inhabited for over a millennium and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The multi-storied, earthen structures reflect the architectural ingenuity and communal lifestyle of the Puebloan people. Visitors to Taos Pueblo can immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and history of one of North America’s oldest continuously inhabited communities.
32. Wyckoff House, New York
The Wyckoff House in Brooklyn, New York, stands as the oldest surviving example of a Dutch saltbox frame house in the United States, dating back to 1652. This historic home reflects the Dutch colonial architecture prevalent in early New Netherland. Its steeply pitched roof and asymmetrical design offer insights into the domestic life of the era. As a museum, the Wyckoff House invites visitors to explore the rich Dutch heritage and the early European influence on New York’s development.
33. Lane House, North Carolina
The Lane House in Edenton, North Carolina, is a captivating example of colonial-era architecture, built in 1718. This charming home reflects the craftsmanship and style of the period, with its wooden construction and gabled roof. The house has undergone careful restoration to preserve its historical essence. As a museum, it offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the early colonial lifestyle and the significant role Edenton played in North Carolina’s history as a prominent colonial port.
34. Kittson Trading Post, North Dakota
Kittson Trading Post, established in 1843, is one of North Dakota’s oldest trading posts, founded by Norman W. Kittson. This frontier outpost served as a vital hub for fur trappers, Native Americans, and settlers, exemplifying the bustling commerce of the 19th century. Its wooden construction and strategic location highlight its role in regional trade. Today, as a historical site, it offers visitors a glimpse into the commercial dynamics and cultural exchanges that shaped the early American frontier in the Great Plains.
35. Betts House, Ohio
The Betts House, located in Cincinnati, Ohio, is the state’s oldest brick home, built in 1804. This sturdy structure reflects the architectural transition from log cabins to more durable brick construction in the early 19th century. The house’s simple yet elegant design highlights the craftsmanship of its time. As a museum, the Betts House offers visitors an opportunity to explore the evolution of American domestic architecture and the everyday lives of Ohio’s early settlers.
36. Fort Gibson, Oklahoma
Fort Gibson, established in 1824, is Oklahoma’s oldest military fort. Positioned strategically, it played a crucial role in maintaining peace and order in Indian Territory during westward expansion. The fort’s design, with its wooden barracks and defensive structures, highlights military engineering of the era. Today, Fort Gibson serves as a historical site, where visitors can explore its restored buildings and learn about its pivotal role in shaping the interactions between Native American tribes and the expanding United States.
37. Molalla Log House, Oregon
The Molalla Log House, situated near Molalla, Oregon, is one of the oldest surviving log houses in the Pacific Northwest, dating from around 1795–1810. This rustic structure reflects the resourcefulness of early settlers in the region, with its hand-hewn logs and simple design. The house serves as a tangible link to Oregon’s pioneer past, offering visitors a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of frontier life. As a preserved historical site, it invites exploration and appreciation of early American ingenuity.
38. Lower Swedish Cabin, Pennsylvania
The Lower Swedish Cabin in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, is a rare example of a Swedish-style log cabin, constructed around 1640. This historic dwelling reflects the early Swedish influence in the Delaware Valley, with its traditional log construction and rustic charm. Over the centuries, the cabin has remained remarkably intact, offering a unique glimpse into the early colonial lifestyle. Today, it serves as a museum, where visitors can explore its cozy interiors and learn about the Swedish settlers who shaped the region’s cultural landscape.
39. White Horse Tavern, Rhode Island
White Horse Tavern in Newport, Rhode Island, is recognized as the oldest operating restaurant in the United States, with origins dating back to 1652 and its conversion to a tavern in 1673. This storied establishment has hosted a variety of patrons over the centuries, from colonial governors to local townsfolk. Its historic charm and colonial architecture continue to attract diners and history enthusiasts alike. As a living piece of history, the tavern offers a unique dining experience amidst the ambiance of America’s colonial past.
40. The Powder Magazine, South Carolina
The Powder Magazine in Charleston, South Carolina, is the oldest public building in the state, constructed in 1713. Originally used to store gunpowder, this sturdy brick structure played a vital role in the city’s defense during the colonial period. Its thick walls and distinctive architectural features highlight its military purpose. Today, the Powder Magazine serves as a museum, offering visitors a chance to explore its historical significance and learn about Charleston’s rich colonial past and strategic military importance.
41. Fort Sisseton, South Dakota
Fort Sisseton, established in 1864, is the oldest intact building in South Dakota, located in the northeastern part of the state. Constructed to protect settlers and surveyors moving into the Dakota Territory, the fort features a collection of well-preserved military structures. Its strategic location and robust design reflect the military needs of the time. Today, Fort Sisseton is a state park, where visitors can explore its historic buildings and gain insights into the region’s military history and frontier life.
42. Carter Mansion, Tennessee
The Carter Mansion in Elizabethton, Tennessee, is the oldest standing frame house in the state, constructed between 1775 and 1780. This elegant home reflects early American frontier architecture, with its sturdy frame and detailed interior woodwork. Built by John and Landon Carter, the house served as a gathering place for community and political events. Today, the Carter Mansion is a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle and craftsmanship of the 18th-century Appalachian frontier.
43. Mission San Antonio de Valero (The Alamo), Texas
Mission San Antonio de Valero, commonly known as The Alamo, is one of Texas’s most iconic historical sites, established in 1718. Originally a Spanish mission, it later became a pivotal battleground during the Texas Revolution. The Alamo’s stone facade and historic significance attract countless visitors. As a symbol of Texan independence and resilience, it offers a profound connection to the state’s storied past. Today, the Alamo remains a revered site, inviting exploration and remembrance of its historical impact on American history.
44. E.T. Benson Mill, Utah
The E.T. Benson Mill, situated in Stansbury Park, Utah, is one of the state’s oldest non-residential buildings, constructed in 1854. This mill played a crucial role in the early industrial development of the region, providing essential milling services to local settlers. Its wooden construction and millstone machinery are characteristic of the period. As a preserved historical site, the E.T. Benson Mill offers visitors a glimpse into the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Utah’s early pioneers and their contributions to the state’s agricultural and industrial history.
45. Rockingham Meeting House, Vermont
The Rockingham Meeting House in Vermont is the oldest public building in the state, constructed between 1787 and 1801. This meeting house served dual purposes, accommodating both religious services and civic gatherings. Its simple yet functional design reflects the community-oriented spirit of the time. Today, it stands as a preserved historical site, where visitors can explore its well-maintained interiors and learn about the important role it played in Vermont’s early community life, bridging both spiritual and civic needs.
46. Jamestown Church Tower, Virginia
The Jamestown Church Tower in Virginia is the only surviving above-ground structure from the original 17th-century settlement, built between 1639 and 1647. This brick tower stands as a testament to the early colonial architecture and the enduring legacy of America’s first permanent English settlement. Its robust design and historical significance continue to captivate visitors. As a focal point of Jamestown’s archaeological site, the church tower invites exploration and reflection on the origins of American society and its colonial past.
47. Fort Nisqually Granary, Washington
The Fort Nisqually Granary, originally constructed in 1843 by the Hudson’s Bay Company, is one of Washington State’s oldest buildings. This granary was part of the larger Fort Nisqually complex, serving as a key storage facility for the thriving fur trade. Its wooden construction and gabled roof reflect the practical needs of the time. Today, the granary has been relocated to Tacoma’s Point Defiance Park, where visitors can explore its historical significance and the role it played in the development of the Pacific Northwest’s trade networks.
48. Cool Spring Farm, West Virginia
Cool Spring Farm in Jefferson County, West Virginia, is among the oldest homesteads in the state, dating back to around 1750. This charming farmstead reflects the early colonial settlement patterns, with its sturdy construction and idyllic rural setting. The farm has witnessed centuries of change and continues to be a living piece of history. As a preserved heritage site, Cool Spring Farm offers visitors a window into the agricultural practices and daily life of West Virginia’s early settlers.
49. Tank Cottage, Wisconsin
Tank Cottage in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is the oldest extant building in the state, originally constructed between 1776 and 1803. This historic log house was relocated to Heritage Hill State Historical Park in 1976. Its hand-hewn logs and simple design reflect the resourcefulness of early settlers. The cottage stands as a testament to the pioneering spirit of Wisconsin’s early inhabitants. Today, it offers visitors a chance to explore its rustic charm and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.
50. Fossil Cabin, Wyoming
Fossil Cabin, located near Medicine Bow, Wyoming, is a truly unique structure constructed entirely from dinosaur bones in 1932. Known as “The World’s Oldest Building” due to the ancient materials used, it stands as a quirky yet fascinating landmark. The cabin’s construction reflects an innovative use of local resources, capturing the imagination of visitors. Today, it serves as a roadside attraction, where curious travelers can marvel at its unusual composition and learn about the prehistoric past that shaped Wyoming’s landscape.