Historic Clerks Office, Eastville VA, 1680 - Vintage Photo

This vintage photograph captures the historic Clerks Office located in Eastville, Northampton County, Virginia. Built in 1680 as part of The Horns, the site was significant for its role in local governance and legal proceedings. The Clerks Office is notable for housing continuous records dating back to 1630, making it a vital repository of American history.

The architecture of the Clerks Office reflects the early American colonial style, characterized by its brickwork and functional design. This building was part of a larger complex that included the courthouse, jail, and debtors prison, highlighting the importance of judicial institutions in the community. The site originally served the needs of the local populace, supporting the regions legal framework.

Captured by photographer Frances Benjamin Johnston, this image forms part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South. The survey aimed to document historic structures across the Southern United States, ensuring their preservation for future generations. This photograph is a valuable glimpse into Virginias architectural heritage.