HOME

David Knickerbacker Boyd a rather forgotten figure in Philadelphia's rich architectural history. Yet our research leads us to believe that David K. Boyd's career gives key insight to the city's architectural and social history. The information we discovered about the lives of Pierce Archer and Arthur Baugh confirmed our assumptions regarding the type of Philadelphians building homes along the main line. Both Archer and Baugh were wealthy and well placed members of Philadelphia society. Each man built their "country estate" but retained an office and address within the city limits. They represent the professional gantleman who sought a family life in the country, but still depended on the city for their livelihood.

Although David K. Boyd's architecture was never elevated to the iconic status like the work of Frank Furness, it is still important because of its consistency. Boyd was able to build for a great number of clients living in close proximity, thus influencing a regional style during a distinct period in America's history. Although little attention is given to Boyd specifically, the fact that his buildings were published time and time again in respected local and national publications (such as the Baugh house) implies that he was able to deliver the popular trends and styles of the day.

Recognition should be given to those architects who consistently remain in the public's favor. Not every architect is recognized for their genius during their lifetime or even posthumously. In many cases the most beloved architects are those who quietly and constantly cater to the people. That is precisely what David Boyd did up to the day of his death. Philadelphia's main line and suburban aesthetic owes a great deal to Boyd's work, whether or not the breadth of his influence is widely acknowledged.