Conclusion

This concluding chapter explores the enduring fascination with follies in the years after the nineteenth century. Although early modernism was starting to challenge historicism in American architecture in 1876, historicized follies remained popular for decades after the Centennial, even as metal towers — the architectural cousins of the Eiffel Tower — began to proliferate. Additionally, stone lookout towers were especially popular at the turn of the century, and private gardens in the so-called Country Place Era at the turn of the century continued to feature architectural adornments to provide delight and respite to garden enthusiasts. Even as High Modernism started to eclipse historicism in the mid-twentieth century, follies held interest in some quarters. In the late twentieth century, follies enjoyed a resurgence that continues to this day. Indeed, over the last several decades, follies have continued to fascinate contemporary architects and curators.