Nelson House in Yorktown, VA (1740) - Historic Photograph

This vintage photograph features the Nelson House, located in Yorktown, Virginia. Built between 1740 and 1741 by William Nelson, the house is significant in American history as it is associated with his son, Thomas Nelson Jr., who was a signer of the Declaration of Independence and served as a general during the Revolutionary War. The architectural style exemplifies the colonial period, reflecting the early American colonial aesthetic.

The image captures the estate’s gardens, showcasing the landscape design typical of the era. The Nelson House has long stood as a testament to Virginias rich history and its role in the early formation of the United States. This photograph is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a project that documents historic architecture in the southeastern United States.

This image, created by Frances Benjamin Johnston, serves not only as a glimpse into the past but also as an educational resource for those interested in American history and architecture. 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.