Historic Building in St. Marys County, MD, 1654

This historical photograph captures a building located in St. Marys County, Maryland, dating back to approximately 1654. Constructed by Christopher Rousby, the structure is a one-and-a-half-story house characterized by its steep roof with dormers and a long porch measuring 60 feet. It exemplifies the marine style of architecture prevalent in the region during that period.

The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aimed to document significant architectural landmarks in the United States. This particular survey provides valuable insights into early American building practices and styles, reflecting the cultural and historical context of Maryland during the 17th century.

The photograph was acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953 and is preserved in the Library of Congress. It serves as an important visual record of Marylands architectural heritage, contributing to the understanding of early colonial life and construction methods.