1799 Interior Scene, Polk County NC - Vintage Photograph

This vintage photograph, credited to Frances Benjamin Johnston, depicts an interior scene from Polk County, North Carolina, showcasing architectural details from a building constructed in 1799. The image features elements such as stairways, mantels, and fireplaces, providing insight into early American design and craftsmanship.

Johnstons work is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a significant collection aimed at documenting the architectural heritage of the region. The survey has contributed to a greater understanding of Southern architecture and its historical context, highlighting the unique characteristics of structures from this era.

The photograph was acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953 and is preserved in the Library of Congresss Prints and Photographs Division. This image offers a glimpse into the past, making it a valuable resource for historians, architecture enthusiasts, and collectors interested in American history.