Dining Room in Alexandria, VA - Early 20th Century

This vintage photograph by Frances Benjamin Johnston captures a dining room in Alexandria, Virginia, showcasing the architectural style and decorative arts of the early 20th century. The image features an elegantly set dining table and a prominent fireplace, elements that reveal the social customs and aesthetic preferences of the time.

Johnston was known for her contributions to the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, an initiative aimed at documenting significant architectural features in the southern United States. This photograph is part of that collection and reflects the craftsmanship evident in the paneling and furnishings typical of the region.

Acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953, the image serves as a historical artifact, providing insight into domestic life and design in Alexandria during this period. The work is preserved in the Prints and Photographs Division of the Library of Congress, contributing to the rich tapestry of American architectural history.