Well House in Gordonsville, Virginia, 1930s Snapshot

This vintage photograph captures a well house located in Gordonsville, Louisa County, Virginia. The image was taken as part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aimed to document historic structures in the region. The well house, a notable feature of rural architecture, reflects the practical design and craftsmanship of its time.

Frances Benjamin Johnston, the photographer, was renowned for her work in capturing the essence of Southern architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This specific photograph is part of her inventory, which highlights the significance of well houses in providing essential water access for communities.

The image serves as an important historical record, illustrating the architectural styles and building techniques prevalent in Virginia during this period. Acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953, it remains a valuable piece of cultural heritage, accessible through the Library of Congresss extensive collection.