Charles Bulfinch (1763-1844), son of a wealthy and cultivated Boston family, exerted a wide influence on architecture in New England. As architect and Boston selectman, he was responsible for the great development of Old Boston. Later he was appointed architect for the final stages of the Capitol in Washington. In this fully illustrated record of commissions, Harold Kirker sets forth the fascinating career of America's first native-born architect.

Harold Kirker is Professor of History, Emeritus, University of California at Santa Barbara.