Historic Estate Gardens, Fredericksburg VA, 20th Century

Frances Benjamin Johnston captured this vintage photograph during a commission to document the restoration of an estate near Fredericksburg, Virginia. The image reflects the architectural and landscape elements of the estate, notably the gardens that surrounded the historic property. This documentation was part of Johnstons broader work associated with the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aimed to catalog significant architectural structures in the region.

The estate featured in this photo is located in Stafford County, an area rich in historical significance and natural beauty. Johnstons work not only illustrates the grandeur of early 20th-century estates but also serves as a vital record of the preservation efforts undertaken during that era.

Today, this photograph is part of the collection at the Library of Congress, offering insight into Virginias architectural heritage and the cultural landscape of the time. The image is a valuable resource for historians, educators, and anyone interested in the rich history of Fredericksburg and its surroundings.