Historic 1632 Building in Smithfield, Virginia - 1930 Photo

This vintage photograph captures a historic building located in Smithfield, Isle of Wight County, Virginia. Constructed in 1632, it is recognized as the oldest structure still standing in America built by English settlers, emerging a mere twenty-five years after the establishment of Jamestown. The building showcases distinctive architectural features, including crow-stepped gables and intricate brickwork, reflecting the craftsmanship of the time.

The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a significant collection documenting the architectural heritage of the region. This photograph was originally published in Henry Irving Brocks book, Colonial Churches in Virginia, in 1930, which further emphasizes its historical importance.

Frances Benjamin Johnston, the photographer, meticulously documented this structure, ensuring its legacy endures. This photograph is not only a glimpse into America’s colonial past but also a testament to the architectural evolution in Virginia.

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.