Historic Landmark of Aldie, Virginia - 1823 Architecture

This vintage photograph captures a significant architectural landmark in Aldie, Loudoun County, Virginia. The building, constructed in 1823, was designed under the supervision of Thomas Jefferson, with Captain James Hoban as the architect. It was originally built for President James Monroe, and Lafayette was the first guest to grace its halls.

The image showcases notable features such as its elegant porticoes and balconies, which reflect the style of early 19th-century American architecture. In 1850, Colonel Fairfax acquired the estate from the Monroe family, continuing its storied history. This structure is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, an important collection documenting the architectural heritage of the region.

Photographed by Frances Benjamin Johnston, this image serves as a historical record of an important site. The photograph is part of the Library of Congress collection, emphasizing its significance in American architectural history.

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.