Historic 1697 Building in Yorktown, Virginia

This vintage photograph captures a historic building located in Yorktown, Virginia, dating back to 1697. Constructed from native mud, the structure has withstood numerous fires that have hardened its walls. During the Revolutionary War, it served as a magazine for the British, and in the War of 1812, it was repurposed as a stable. The original church featured a T-shaped design with a steeple, but alterations have left only the nave intact.

The image showcases architectural features such as bell towers, bulls eye windows, and prominent doorways that reflect the colonial style of the era. This photograph is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which documents significant historical structures in the region. Published references include Henry Irving Brocks 1930 work, Colonial Churches in Virginia.

Frances Benjamin Johnston, who took this photograph, played a significant role in documenting American architecture. 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.