Fredericksburg VA Vintage Photo of Children, Early 1900s

This vintage photograph by Frances Benjamin Johnston captures a moment in Fredericksburg, Virginia, during the early 20th century. The image features children playing in front of a house, showcasing architectural details typical of the era, including distinctive chimneys. Johnston, known for her contributions to documenting American architecture, was commissioned by Mrs. Devore of Chatham for this piece.

Fredericksburg holds historical significance, being a site of various Civil War battles and a center of preservation efforts for early American homes. This photograph is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, an initiative aimed at documenting the unique architectural styles across the region.

Acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953, this image is a valuable representation of the social and architectural landscape of Virginia. For those interested in historical photography and Southern architecture, this piece provides a glimpse into the lives of children in a historic setting.