Charlottesville VA 1783 Vintage Architecture Photo

This vintage photograph, attributed to Frances Benjamin Johnston, captures a significant architectural site located in Charlottesville, Virginia. The building, originally constructed around 1783, showcases the historical heritage of Albemarle County. It was initially owned by Thomas Staples, who sold it to Samuel Dyer in 1787. Dyer enlarged the structure, which he named based on his stores motto, establishing a lasting legacy in the area.

The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a project aimed at documenting the architectural history of the Southern United States. The survey emphasizes the importance of regional architecture and its connection to American history.

This photograph, acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953, serves as a valuable resource for understanding Virginia’s architectural evolution. It highlights the unique features of the property, including its porches and gardens, which reflect the style of the era.