Ida Lee Rust Photograph, Loudoun VA, Early 1900s

This vintage photograph, captured by Frances Benjamin Johnston, features Ida Lee Rust, a prominent figure in Loudoun County, Virginia. The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aimed to document the architectural heritage of the region. Johnston, known for her contributions to photography and visual documentation, highlights Rust in a setting that reflects the cultural and artistic milieu of early 20th-century Virginia.

Ida Lee Rust (1840-1921) was an influential personality in Leesburg, associated with various artistic endeavors. The photograph showcases her surrounded by art objects and framed pictures, indicative of her refined tastes and social standing. This image is a valuable representation of the era, providing insight into the lives of women who shaped cultural life in their communities.

This photograph was acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953 and is preserved in the Library of Congress. It serves as a historical artifact that connects viewers to the rich narratives of Virginias past.

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.