Nathan Clifford Ricker


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

Educator

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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. In 1890, he established the first curriculum in architectural engineering. 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 in 1885 was the first book published by a University of Illinois faculty member.

Architect

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On 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." He is associated with the design of several sites listed on the National Historical Register and located in Champaign County, Illinois.

Books written by Ricker

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  • The elements of construction in architecture
  • Elementary Graphical Statics and Construction of Trussed Roofs
  • Technical review of the Chicago public library
  • An extension of the Dewey decimal system of classification applied to architecture and building.
  • A study of roof trusses
  • A treatise on design and construction of roofs
  • Simplified formulas and tables for floors, joists and beams; roofs, rafters and purlins
  • ''A study of base and bearing plates for columns and beams''