Chatham Estate Restoration, Stafford County, VA 1900s

This vintage photograph captures a significant moment in the restoration of an estate near Fredericksburg, Virginia, specifically in Stafford County. Commissioned by Mrs. Devore, the image documents the architectural features and landscape of Chatham, an estate known for its historical relevance. The photo was created by Frances Benjamin Johnston, a noted photographer who undertook this project in connection with the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South.

The Carnegie Survey was a comprehensive assessment aimed at documenting the architectural heritage of the Southern United States. Johnstons work contributed to this extensive collection, which is housed at the Library of Congress. The photograph features elements such as trails, gardens, and arbors, which are integral to the estates design and historical context.

Taken in the early 20th century, this image serves as a valuable record of Virginias architectural and cultural history. It provides insight into the preservation efforts of the time and the significance of the estate in the broader narrative of American heritage.