1920 Fredericksburg Estate Restoration, Virginia

Frances Benjamin Johnston captured this vintage photograph in 1920, documenting the restoration of an estate near Fredericksburg, Virginia, commissioned by Mrs. Devore. The image serves as part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aimed to catalog significant structures and gardens throughout the region.

The estate, located in Stafford County, reflects the architectural heritage of Virginia and highlights the intricate designs of gardens that accompanied these historic homes. Johnstons work not only preserves the visual history of these estates but also contributes to the understanding of Southern architecture during this period.

This photograph is an important artifact that enriches our appreciation of early 20th-century American estates and their landscapes. It is housed within the Library of Congress, showcasing the artistry and historical significance of Johnston’s contributions to the documentation of American architecture.