King & Queen County VA Gambrel Roof Architecture 1920s

This vintage photograph captures a notable architectural scene from King & Queen County, Virginia. Created by Frances Benjamin Johnston, a prominent photographer of the early 20th century, the image showcases houses characterized by their distinctive gambrel roofs. This architectural style is recognized for its unique shape, allowing for more usable space in the upper levels.

The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a comprehensive documentation effort that aimed to preserve the architectural heritage of the region. The survey highlights various aspects of Southern architecture, including residential structures, and serves as an important historical record.

Acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953, this photograph is a valuable artifact for those interested in American history and architecture. It provides insight into the design and construction practices of the time, illustrating the evolution of rural housing in Virginia during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.