Calycanthus Hill, Albemarle County, VA - Historic Estate 181

This vintage photograph captures Calycanthus Hill, located in Albemarle County, Virginia, specifically in the Green Mountain area. The estates history dates back to 1800, with the current mansion constructed in 1815 by John Coles III. The architectural design was executed by James Dinsmore, who had previously served as an assistant to Thomas Jefferson, highlighting the historical significance of the site.

Calycanthus Hill was originally named after the sweet shrub, Calycanthus, which reflects the lush gardens surrounding the estate. The property was associated with Mrs. G.A. Randolph, further embedding it within the rich tapestry of Virginias history. The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, emphasizing its cultural and architectural relevance.

Frances Benjamin Johnston, the photographer, meticulously documented this estate, contributing to our understanding of early 20th-century American architecture and landscape design. The photograph serves as a visual record of this historic location, offering insights into the period’s aesthetic and architectural practices.