Historic Estate in McClellanville, SC, 1797 Photo

This vintage photograph by Frances Benjamin Johnston captures a historic estate located in McClellanville, South Carolina, in Charleston County. The building, constructed in 1797, remained unoccupied until 1858, when it was purchased by Stephen D. Doar. The Doar family maintained residence there for three generations, contributing to its historical significance as a family plantation.

The architectural features of the estate include classic Southern elements such as columns, fanlights, and a prominent portico, all framed by the natural beauty of Spanish moss and surrounding vines. Elements like ironwork and lampposts further highlight the craftsmanship of the era, making this image a valuable resource for understanding the architectural heritage of the Carolina Low Country.

This photograph is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aims to document and preserve the rich history of Southern architecture. It was published in Samuel Gaillard Stoneys Plantations of the Carolina Low Country in 1938, establishing its relevance in historical architectural studies.