Sanford's Homes-Shotgun Style

The first thing you think about when you hear the word 'shotgun' is most likely not a home. You most likely think of a gun, shotgun start or even a shotgun wedding. 

A shotgun home is a confined residence that is typically rectangular in shape and has a linear layout with the rooms. Typically, there are 2 doors, one in the front and one in the back. The rooms and bedrooms are usually linked without any hallways. A shotgun home is one story and is known for having better air circulation than most homes. 

So where were shotgun homes first built and why? The first shotgun homes were built in Haiti in the early 1800s. This style of home was heavily influenced by African culture, primarily West African traditions. This influence was first introduced in the United States when Haitian and West African refugees moved to New Orleans following the population boom that began in the 1800s. As there was a rise in population, the demand for more homes quickly followed. These homes often come with nearly no yard, but you have a warm greeting before you walk inside with the covered front porches. These homes were a reliable option for urban areas that had smaller lots and although the design may seem simple, each shotgun style home tells a story. 

Shotgun homes are seen throughout the south in the United States, but they first started in New Orleans and still remain a pivotal facet of The Big Easy city. You may be wondering, are there shotgun style homes in Indianapolis? YES! In the early 1900s, New Orleans locals began to relocate to northern cities as they traveled along the rivers. One area in the Circle City that features shotgun homes is Fountain Square. Although this is not the only area, you can see this traditional architecture located just south of downtown. 

Do you have any shotgun style homes in your neighborhood? Next time you drive by, you can tell a friend the history of how the homes came to America!