1857 City Hall in Mobile, Alabama - Historic Architecture

The vintage photograph features a significant structure in Mobile, Alabama, dating back to approximately 1857. Originally constructed by Thos. Simmons James, this building was repurposed by the City of Mobile in 1866, becoming the City Hall. The architectural style includes notable fanlights, which are decorative features above doorways and windows that contribute to the buildings historical aesthetic.

This image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a collection aimed at documenting the architectural heritage of the region. The survey is housed in the Library of Congress, where this photograph can also be referenced.

Frances Benjamin Johnston, the photographer, captured this image as part of her extensive work documenting American architecture. The photograph serves as a historical record, reflecting the architectural evolution of Mobile and the importance of civic buildings in the community.

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.