Vintage Architecture in Mathews County, Virginia 1900

This vintage photograph, taken by Frances Benjamin Johnston, showcases a notable dwelling in Mathews County, Virginia. Part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, the image captures the architectural details, particularly highlighting the portico, which serves as an inviting entrance. The survey aimed to document the unique architectural styles present in the Southern United States during the early 20th century.

Frances Benjamin Johnston, an influential photographer, dedicated much of her work to capturing the essence of American architecture. The photograph is significant not only for its aesthetic quality but also for its contribution to understanding the historical context of Virginia’s architectural evolution.

Acquired from the estate of the photographer in 1953, this image is preserved in the Library of Congress, where it continues to inform and educate viewers about the architectural heritage of Virginia. The Carnegie Survey remains a critical resource for those interested in the rich history of Southern architecture.