Surry County, VA Stair Rail Photo, Mid-20th Century

This vintage photograph by Frances Benjamin Johnston, taken in the mid-20th century, captures a detailed view of a stair rail in a historic residence located in Surry County, Virginia. The image presents an open door leading into an inner room, where a fireplace adds a touch of warmth to the architectural scene.

Part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, this photograph is an important record of Southern architectural styles. The stairway and balusters are notable features, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. The Carnegie Survey aimed to document the diverse architectural heritage of the South, and this photograph contributes to that mission.

Acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953, this image is now housed at the Library of Congress in the Prints and Photographs Division. The survey and its collection serve as a valuable resource for understanding the historical context and aesthetic qualities of Southern architecture.