Pii: S1570-677x(02)00009-6

9 The recently developed computer program BayesX provides a Bayesian approach to the estima10 tion of non-parametric additive models. Such models can be useful in applications when the effect 11 of metrical covariates (such as time) are to be estimated while controlling for other factors. In an 12 application of this methodology, trends in the height of West Point cadets in the 19th century are 13 estimated. The results indicate that the biological standard of living of the “middle class” increased 14 relative to the rest of the American society during the Antebellum years. 15 © 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved. 16 JEL classification: C5; N31 17