Nathan Clifford Ricker

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Nathan Clifford Ricker, D.Arch, (July 24, 1843–March 19, 1924) was a professor and architect known for his work at the University of Illinois. He was born on a farm near Acton, Maine July 24, 1843. In 1875, he was married to Mary Carter Steele of Galesburg, Illinois. His only child, Ethel, was born in 1883. He died March 19, 1924.

1 Educator
2 Architect
3 Books written by Ricker
4 External links

[edit] Educator

Altgeld Hall

He served the University of Illinois for 45 years, from 1872 - 1917. He chaired the Department of Architecture from 1873 - 1910, creating the department and its curriculum. From 1878 - 1905, he served as dean of the College of Engineering. He also served as University architect, designing four major buildings at UIUC. The publication of his book, Elementary Graphical Statics and Construction of Trussed Roofs LCCN 06-046611 in 1885 was the first book published by a University of Illinois faculty member.[1]

[edit] Architect

Natural History Building

March 12, 1873, he received his graduation certificate, making him the first person to receive a Degree in Architecture in the United States. In 1914, Alpha Rho Chi honored him with the title of "Master Architect."[2] He is associated with the design of several sites listed on the National Historical Register and located in Champaign County, Illinois.

Altgeld Hall
Harker Hall, listed as the Chemical Laboratory
Metal Shop, now known as Aeronautical Lab "B"
Kenney Gym, listed as Military Drill Hall and Men's Gymnasium
Natural History Building
612 West Green Street, Urbana, Illinois. The home he designed and occupied from 1892 until his death in 1924.[3]

[edit] Books written by Ricker

Kenny Gym

The elements of construction in architecture (1881) LCCN CA-09-005085
Elementary Graphical Statics and Construction of Trussed Roofs (1885) LCCN 06-046611
Technical review of the Chicago public library (1898) LCCN 01-008168
An extension of the Dewey decimal system of classification applied to architecture and building. (1906) LCCN 07-029856
A study of roof trusses (1907) LCCN 08-007167
A treatise on design and construction of roofs (1912) LCCN 12-022158
Simplified formulas and tables for floors, joists and beams; roofs, rafters and purlins (1913) LCCN 13-015719
A study of base and bearing plates for columns and beams (1919) LCCN 10-007724