Historic Estate in Surry, Virginia, 1730 & Jeffersons Design

This vintage photograph, captured by Frances Benjamin Johnston, showcases a historic estate located in Surry, Virginia, specifically within Prince George County. The building dates back to approximately 1730 and was constructed by Nathaniel Harrison II. For two centuries, it served as the residence of the Harrison family, reflecting the architectural heritage of the region.

The central block of the estate, which connects two older wings, is believed to have been designed by Thomas Jefferson in 1789 upon his return from France. This connection to Jefferson highlights the significance of the estate within American architectural history and its representation of early American colonial design.

The image features men and horses, emphasizing the estates role in agricultural and domestic life during its period of prominence. The photograph is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a collection that documents the rich architectural landscape of the Southern United States. This historical image is a valuable piece for collectors and those interested in Virginias heritage.