Historic Stone Ruins in New Smyrna, Florida, 1953

This vintage photograph, attributed to Frances Benjamin Johnston, captures the historic ruins of stone walls located in New Smyrna, Volusia County, Florida. The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a comprehensive documentation of the regions architectural heritage. The survey aimed to preserve the visual history of Southern architecture through detailed photography.

New Smyrna is known for its rich history that dates back to the 18th century, when it was founded as a settlement by Scottish settlers. These ruins serve as a testament to the area’s past, reflecting the architectural styles and materials used during that time. The stone walls depicted in the photograph offer insight into construction techniques and the enduring nature of early Southern architecture.

This photograph was purchased from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953 and is preserved in the Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division. It serves as a valuable resource for historians, architects, and anyone interested in the architectural history of Florida.