Midwife in Front of 1722 House, King William, VA, 20th Centu

Frances Benjamin Johnstons photograph captures Miss Brown, a midwife, standing in front of a minor house built in 1722, located at 2162 Commins Road in King William County, Virginia. This image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aimed to document the architectural heritage of the region. The house itself serves as a testament to early American colonial architecture.

The photograph provides insight into the life of a woman engaged in a vital profession during a time when midwifery was crucial to community health and family structure. Miss Browns presence in front of this historic building highlights the important roles women played in the social fabric of their communities, especially in rural areas.

This vintage image, created in the mid-20th century, is an essential piece of Virginias history and architectural narrative. It invites viewers to reflect on the contributions of individuals like Miss Brown to the development of their communities.

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.