American history has always been defined by color. From classical elegance to modern optimism, discover the hues of your favorite eras through seven historical color palettes curated from the Sherwin-Williams archives.

The Classics (1800s–1860s)
Dominated by soft neutrals and gentle grays, this era’s collection includes colors from the earliest days of a young American republic. To bring these historic house colors to your next painting project, order free color chips.

Victorian (1830s–1910s)
Marked by opulence and ornate detail, this era’s palette features rich, saturated colors that celebrate the verve and vigor of a life well lived. Love the lavish look of these timeless wall colors? Order free color chips to see them in your home.

Colonial Revival (1870s–1900s)
Mixing paler colors with lush ones, this era reflects a return to design inspired by ancient Greece, as well as a renewed interest in America’s own past. To see these colonial paint colors in person, order free color chips. Or, if you’re looking for historic Cape Cod house colors, browse our regional paint palettes.

Arts & Crafts (1880s–1910s)
Celebrating honest craftsmanship, simplicity and nature, this era featured the natural hues of building materials and the blues and greens of handmade ceramics. To bring these historic craftsman house colors to your home, order free color chips.

The Jazz Age (1920s)
Experience this lively era with its subtle pastels and classic neutrals that served as the background for striking accents of bold, saturated colors. Ready to jazz up your space with these historic hues? Order free color chips.

The Streamlined Years (1930s–1950s)
This palette’s warm and creamy hues offer simple sophistication reflective on an era known for its simple, streamlined design. Not sure which of these hues will work best in your home? Order free color chips and we’ll mail all five to your door.

Suburban Modern (1950s)
Are you a fan of the midcentury era? This palette features clear, bright, cheerful colors reminiscent of America’s post-war optimism. To bring inspired, MCM style to your next painting project, order free color chips.

Looking for more inspiration and guidance on bringing our Historic Paint Color palettes to life in your home?
- Explore the full Historic Paint Color Collection.
- Place an order for peel & stick samples or free color chips.
- Schedule a free Virtual Color Consultation with one of our experts.
I have used Sherwin Williams paints since 1953. Interior and exterior. I wouldn’t use any other brand!
So thankful for loyal customers such as yourself! Thanks Edna 🙂
Sherwin-Williams! You should definitely give her something special for being so loyal!
If she wants to message us on one of our social media channels we can send her a little something. 🙂
Beautiful colors
Thanks Melissa!
Sherwin-Williams historical colors collection has always been helpful to us. In my husband’s painting contractor business, we’ve painted historical homes from a Florida Cracker House to a Modernist house by architect Earl Swenssen. The collection is also great for really any homeowner. We began color consultations in 1999. I have a BFA in Visual Communication, and I find there is a livable SW color that everyone will be delighted with.
Thanks for sharing this Darla, we are so glad to hear that you enjoy using our historical colors! You’re absolutely correct, there are so many options when it comes to colors. Each person should be able to find a few that suit them perfectly. 🙂
Sherwin Wiliams paint is very thick, and does not splatter like other paints. It is the only paint I use on my home.
My house walls were painted with the Sears color Antique White. We had some storm damage a couple of years ago and needed to repaint a room. SW had the Sears formulas and I was able to get several gallons of Antique White. Having some leftover paint, I decided to try touching up some scratches and marks on other walls. The color matched perfectly!!! Thank you so much Sherwin-Williams. You saved me from a lot of repainting!