Calycanthus Hill Estate, Green Mountain, VA 1815

This vintage photograph, captured by Frances Benjamin Johnston, features Calycanthus Hill, an estate located in Green Mountain, Albemarle County, Virginia. The original structure was built in 1800, with the current mansion completed in 1815 by John Coles III. Notably, the architectural design was overseen by James Dinsmore, who served as an assistant to Thomas Jefferson for a decade.

Calycanthus Hill, named for the fragrant flowering shrub, is steeped in history and showcases the grandeur of early 19th-century architecture in Virginia. The estates gardens reflect the meticulous landscaping typical of that era, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the property. The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, an important collection documenting the architectural heritage of the region.

Frances Benjamin Johnston’s work continues to offer a window into the past, highlighting significant structures such as Calycanthus Hill. KNOWOLs historic images connect the rich stories and imagery of our past. A statement in any room, each is printed on museum-quality paper using a restored version of the original.