The Life And Work Of Harry Franklin Robinson

I had an exciting find this weekend at a local antique shop: a rare copy of the only biography written about Prairie School architect, Harry Franklin Robinson. The book, titled The Life And Work of Harry Franklin Robinson 1883-1959, was written by Robinson's eldest grandson, James Alexander Robinson, and published in 1989. The book is full of fantastic information based on research and interviews with original clients about this under-appreciated architect. In addition to detailing Robinson's experiences working for Frank Lloyd Wright (twice) and Walter Burley Griffin, there are a plethora of beautiful illustrations of Robinson's renderings (several that were apparently the basis for plates in Wright's iconic Wasmuth Portfolio) and architectural work. Enjoy just a small sampling of what this book contains in the scans pictured after the jump...

This is just a small sampling of the engaging information and images collected by James Alexander Robinson in this book about his grandfather. Hopefully this book can be reprinted someday and made more available for people interested in studying Prairie School architects (beyond Wright) and their own important contributions to Modern Architecture.

All photos via PrairieMod

Comments

[Paul]

This is an awesome "find." I sure would like to see it reprinted by someone.

[CW]

What a great treasure. We have just renovated a home by Robinson and I have been trying to find a copy of this book. Would you kindly share if there are anyhomes in Naperville listed? I am curious to learn more about the history of our wonderful home. Thank you-
C.W.