Falmouth, VA Vintage Home Photo, Early 20th Century

This vintage photograph by Frances Benjamin Johnston captures a historical scene in Falmouth, Stafford County, Virginia. The image showcases a residence built by Fitzhugh of Chatham for his daughter, Susannah Knox. This home later served as the residence of Mrs. Gari Melchers, an influential figure in the arts. The photograph was taken on commission from Mrs. Devore of Chatham, highlighting the importance of this architectural site.

The image forms part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a significant initiative that documented the historical architecture and gardens of the region. The survey aimed to preserve the Southern architectural heritage through detailed photographs, providing insight into the design and cultural context of the time.

This photograph offers a glimpse into early 20th-century Virginia, reflecting the architectural style and garden aesthetics of the period. It serves as an educational resource for those interested in the history of American architecture and the cultural landscape of Stafford County.