Staircase Interior in Powhatan County, Virginia, 1953

This vintage photograph, taken by Frances Benjamin Johnston, captures an interior scene featuring a staircase in Powhatan County, Virginia. Johnston, known for her work documenting Southern architecture, provides a unique glimpse into the design and craftsmanship of the period. The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aimed to record the architectural heritage of the region.

The photograph reflects the historical significance of stairways in American homes, serving not only as functional elements but also as focal points in interior design. Powhatan County, located in Virginia, is rich in history, with structures that often date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. This image is an important contribution to understanding the architectural evolution in this part of the United States.

Acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953, this photograph remains a valuable resource for historians, architects, and enthusiasts of American culture. The Carnegie Survey continues to be an essential reference for those studying the Souths architectural history.