Early 20th Century Fireplace in Tarboro, NC - 1941

This vintage photograph by Frances Benjamin Johnston captures an architectural feature from the early 20th century in Tarboro, Edgecombe County, North Carolina. The image emphasizes the intricate design of a fireplace and mantel, showcasing the craftsmanship typical of the period. The photograph is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aimed to document significant structures throughout the region.

Johnstons work contributes to the understanding of Southern architectural styles, particularly in domestic settings. The image is referenced in the book The Early Architecture of North Carolina by Thomas Tileston Waterman, published in 1941, highlighting its historical significance.

Acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953, this photograph serves as a valuable record of North Carolinas architectural heritage. It can be explored further through resources available at the Library of Congress, which houses a collection dedicated to the Carnegie Survey.