Watermill in Mathews County, VA - Carnegie Survey 1910

This vintage photograph showcases a watermill in Mathews County, Virginia, captured by Frances Benjamin Johnston, an influential photographer known for her contributions to architectural documentation. The image forms part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aimed to preserve the architectural heritage of the region. The survey is recognized for its extensive collection of historical structures and landscapes, emphasizing the importance of local craftsmanship and technology.

The watermill depicted in the photograph highlights the significance of waterwheels as a source of power in rural communities during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Water mills were vital for processing grain and other agricultural products, reflecting the agricultural economy of Virginia during that time. This image serves as a valuable historical record of the regions industrial heritage.

Frances Benjamin Johnstons work is preserved in the Library of Congress, showcasing the rich stories behind Virginias architectural and cultural landscape. 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.