Ask around in the historic preservation / architectural history field about folks’ favorite conferences, and invariably you’ll get the same reply: “VAF!!” There’s a reason attending the Vernacular Architecture Forum conference is a beloved ritual for many–the field trips. You get to access little-seen spaces and privately-owned historic properties, the equivalent of a back-stage V.I.P. pass for your favorite band. Seeing and discussing these incredible places in the friendly company of other architectural historians, preservationists, historic site directors, and academics (this year I met a historical geographer and a medievalist) makes for an invaluable learning experience. Continue reading →