Gothic Arches, Latin Crosses

“The most important contribution of this book . . . is its examination of the struggle for supremacy between two sects of Christianity that was manifested in physical form.” — Winterthur Portfolio

“A fresh perception that bridges architectural and intellectual histories, usually two distinct disciplines.” — American Catholic Studies

“[A] concise, well written book.” — Catholic Historical Review

“A vehicle for interesting anecdotes and insights into the alterations and accommodations within the history of a massively influential force in American cultural life. . . . Fascinating.” — The Journal of American Studies

“Well-researched and engagingly argued, this book is a welcome contribution to a subject that has not received the attention it deserves. . . . [An] incisive, though-provoking book.” — Books and Culture

“A highly readable and painstaking attempt to unravel and understand a complex phenomenon: the 'Catholicization' of American Protestant worship in the mid-nineteenth century. . . . A diligent piece of historical work and certainly deserves attention from anyone seriously interested in understanding America’s religious landscape.” — Religion and the Arts

“A valuable addition to the literature on American church design. Smith brings together strands of research on the histories of the Roman Catholic Church, Protestantism, and architecture that too often have been viewed in isolation and convincingly demonstrates how they interlock as threads of a shared story.” — Catholic Historical Review

“Well-researched and engagingly argued, [Gothic Arches, Latin Crosses] is a welcome contribution to a subject that has not received the attention it deserves. . . . Drawing on ecclesiastical, architectural, and social history, Smith has put together an incisive, thought-provoking book.” — Books & Culture

“This wonderfully inventive book breaks new ground in the history of American religious experiences. It takes church architecture where it has never gone before: into the surprisingly intertwined pious practices of nineteenth-century Protestants and Catholics. The cross and crucifix emerge as dramatic players in a beautifully written study of cultural exchange. Smith delivers a rich blend of material culture, theology, and religious life.” — Richard Wightman Fox, University of Southern California

“This fascinating study explores with subtlety and resourcefulness the complexities of American religious history — how Protestants simultaneously repudiated Catholicism and came to regard many of its features as worthy of emulation amidst the manifold rivalries of antebellum American and middle-class aspirations for refinement. Writing with clarity and erudition, Ryan Smith ably demonstrates the relevance of material culture for the historical understanding of American Christianity.” — David Morgan, Valparaiso University