Nelson House in Yorktown, VA: Historical Snapshot 1740-41

This vintage photograph captures the Nelson House, a historic structure located in Yorktown, Virginia, built between 1740 and 1741. The house was constructed by William Nelson, whose son Thomas Nelson Jr. played a significant role in American history as a signer of the Declaration of Independence, a general during the Revolutionary War, and a governor of Virginia.

The image belongs to the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a comprehensive documentation of significant architectural sites in the region. The photograph provides a glimpse into the interior of the house, showcasing traditional elements such as clothes chests, which reflect the domestic life of the era.

Frances Benjamin Johnston, a prominent photographer known for her architectural work, took this photograph as part of her extensive documentation of Southern architecture. The house remains an important piece of Virginias heritage, offering insights into the early colonial period and the lives of its notable inhabitants.

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.