Chatham Estate Restoration, Stafford County, VA, 1930s

This vintage photograph, created by Frances Benjamin Johnston, captures a significant moment in the architectural history of Stafford County, Virginia, specifically near Fredericksburg. The image was commissioned by Mrs. Devore to document the restoration of her estate, known as Chatham, highlighting the intricate details of the property’s structures.

Johnstons work is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a project aimed at preserving and documenting Southern architecture. The image showcases elements such as doors and doorways, gardens, and dwellings, reflecting the rich architectural heritage of the region.

Taken during a transformative period for many estates in Virginia, this photograph serves not only as a visual record but also as a historical artifact, illustrating the restoration efforts that contributed to preserving the Souths architectural legacy. This image is an invaluable representation of the era and provides insight into the architectural styles and garden designs of the time.