Nelson House, Yorktown VA, 1740-1741 Historical Photo

Frances Benjamin Johnston captured this vintage photograph of the Nelson House, located in Yorktown, Virginia, built between 1740 and 1741. The house was constructed by William Nelson, a prominent figure during the American Revolution, whose son, Thomas Nelson Jr., signed the Declaration of Independence and served as a general and Governor of Virginia. The architectural significance of the Nelson House is highlighted by its well-preserved structure, including its distinguished stairways, doorways, and lintels.

This image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a project aimed at documenting the architectural heritage of the region. The historical relevance of the Nelson House is underscored by its connection to key figures in American history and its enduring presence in York County.

The photograph serves as a valuable record of early American architecture and the lives of those who shaped this nations history.

KNOWOLs historic images connect the rich stories and imagery of our past. A statement in any room, each is printed on museum-quality paper using a restored version of the original.