Burnside, LA Abandoned Duplexes - 20th Century History

This vintage photograph, captured by Frances Benjamin Johnston, showcases a scene from Burnside, Ascension Parish, Louisiana. The image features a collection of abandoned wooden duplexes, typical of the architectural style found in this region during the early 20th century. The structures, characterized by their distinctive roofs, reflect a bygone era of residential design in rural Louisiana.

The photograph is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a significant initiative that documented the architectural heritage of Southern states. This survey aimed to preserve the history and character of regional architecture, making this image a valuable contribution to understanding Louisianas architectural landscape.

Taken in the mid-20th century, this photograph serves as an important historical record. It provides insight into the rural community of Burnside, highlighting the remnants of its past through the lens of Johnstons camera. This image is not only a piece of art but also a documentation of the historical and cultural narrative of Louisiana.