Merchants Hope Church, Prince George VA, 1657 Vintage Photo

This vintage photograph by Frances Benjamin Johnston captures a historic church located in Prince George County, Virginia. Believed to be the oldest church still standing in the state, the building dates back to 1657, with its date of construction inscribed on the roof. The church is named Merchants Hope, a reference to the barque that operated between England and Virginia, emphasizing its colonial heritage.

The structure showcases classic architectural features typical of the era, including distinctive brickwork, windows, and doorways. This image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which documents significant architectural sites across the region. The photo was purchased from the estate of Frances Benjamin Johnston in 1953, reflecting the historical importance of the church and its architectural significance.

This photograph serves as a valuable educational resource for those interested in Virginias colonial history and early American architecture, making it a meaningful addition to any collection.