Historic Building in Charleston, SC, 1740 Image

Frances Benjamin Johnston captured a significant image that showcases a historic structure in Charleston County, South Carolina, dating back to 1740. This building, associated with Charles H. Drayton, reflects the architectural style of the period, characterized by its distinctive brickwork and prominent chimneys. The location is enriched by the presence of Spanish moss, a common feature in the region that adds to the visual narrative of the landscape.

The photograph is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a comprehensive project documenting the architectural heritage of the Southern United States. This initiative, which began in the early 20th century, aimed to preserve and highlight the unique structures that define the regions cultural history.

Published in the 1938 work Plantations of the Carolina Low Country by Samuel Gaillard Stoney, this image serves as a valuable resource for understanding the historical context and architectural significance of Charlestons antebellum structures. The photograph remains a testament to the craftsmanship and design prevalent in South Carolinas rich architectural legacy.