Historic Building in Athens, GA - 1858 Vintage Photo

Frances Benjamin Johnston captured this vintage photograph of a historic building located in Athens, Clarke County, Georgia. Constructed in 1858, this three-story structure features a high basement and a cast iron porch, exemplifying Victorian pseudo-classic architecture. Founded by General Thomas R.R. Cobb, it originally served as a high school for girls and continued in that capacity until 1931.

The image forms part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, an important collection documenting the architectural heritage of the region. The building’s significance is reinforced by its connection to the University of Georgia, further highlighting its role in the educational landscape of Athens.

Published in Frederick Doveton Nichols The Early Architecture of Georgia in 1957, this photograph offers a glimpse into the architectural history and educational endeavors of the South.

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.