Architecture is generally thought of in functional or decorative terms, but it can also be symbolic.
Architecture serves as a symbolic reflection of the time period in which it was constructed.
The architectural style Americans adopted in the decade after the Revolutionary War reflected pride in their new and growing nation. This style became known as Federal in the late 18th century because it was the choice of many leaders of the new nation. The Federal style reached Cincinnati by 1815. The Taft Museum, built in 1820 and once called the Martin Baum house, is an excellent example of this style. Federal Style refers to the architecture, furniture, and decorative pieces that were made during the years when the United States was establishing and first living under a federal government, from the 1780's until 1815.