1953 Vintage Photo of Wakefield Corner, VA Historical Site

Frances Benjamin Johnston captured this vintage photograph in Westmoreland County, Virginia, specifically at Wakefield Corner, a site of historical significance as the birthplace of George Washington. Erected by the Wakefield National Memorial Association, this location honors Washington’s legacy and reflects the architectural style of the era.

The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which documents notable structures and locations in the region. This survey provides a valuable historical context for understanding the evolution of American architecture and local craftsmanship, particularly within the brick industry prevalent in Virginia.

The photograph is an important artifact from 1953, purchased from the estate of Johnston, who was instrumental in the preservation of American history through her photography. This image serves as a visual connection to the past, offering insights into the architectural landscape of 20th-century Virginia and its relationship to early American history.