Confederate Orphans Home, Charleston SC, 19th Century Image

This vintage photograph documents the Confederate Orphans Home, located in Charleston, South Carolina. The image captures architectural details, including balconies and hand railings, which were characteristic of the era. This institution played a significant role in the community during the post-Civil War period, providing shelter and care for children orphaned by the conflict.

Taken by Frances Benjamin Johnston, a prominent photographer known for her documentation of Southern architecture, this image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South. The survey aimed to record the architectural heritage of the region and is a valuable resource for understanding the historical context of buildings like the Confederate Orphans Home.

The photograph was acquired from Johnstons estate in 1953 and reflects the architectural style and social history of Charleston in the 19th century. This historical image serves as a testament to the rich cultural narrative of South Carolinas past.

KNOWOLs historic images connect the rich stories and imagery of our past. A statement in any room, each is printed on museum-quality paper using a restored version of the original.