Colonial Architecture in Caret, Virginia (1730)

This vintage photograph captures a significant structure located in Caret, Essex County, Virginia. Built around 1730 by Colonel Wm. Beverly, this building is a notable example of early colonial architecture in the region. The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aimed to document and preserve the architectural heritage of the American South.

The photograph highlights the surrounding gardens and the presence of birdbaths, showcasing the relationship between the building and its landscape. This setting reflects the design sensibilities of the 18th century, where architecture and nature were harmoniously integrated.

Frances Benjamin Johnston, the photographer, contributed to the documentation of American history through her lens. This image, acquired from her estate in 1953, serves as a historical record of Virginias architectural evolution and cultural heritage. The photograph is an essential resource for those interested in American history, architecture, and the beauty of early southern gardens.