Historic Church in Owens, VA - Built 1766, Captured 1930

Frances Benjamin Johnston captured this image of a historic church in Owens, King George County, Virginia. The building dates back to 1766 and features a square cruciform design, characterized by equal-length arms. This architectural style is typical of colonial churches in the region. By 1812, the church fell into ruins, but it was repurposed in 1813 by the county as an academy, leading to modifications such as relocating the chancel to the north wall.

The photograph is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which documents significant architectural structures across the southern United States. This survey aims to preserve the history and craftsmanship of early American architecture, particularly in Virginia. The image provides valuable insight into the architectural evolution of religious buildings in the area.

Published in 1930 in Henry Irving Brocks Colonial Churches in Virginia, this photograph is a testament to the enduring legacy of early American ecclesiastical architecture. It is a vital resource for historians, architects, and anyone interested in Virginias rich history.