Nelson House, Yorktown VA: Historic 1740 Architecture

This vintage photograph captures the historic Nelson House, located in Yorktown, Virginia. Constructed between 1740 and 1741, this significant structure was built by William Nelson, a prominent figure in American history. His son, Thomas Nelson Jr., served as a governor of Virginia and was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The house exemplifies colonial architecture and reflects the eras craftsmanship.

The interior of the Nelson House features notable elements such as fireplaces, paneling, and period furniture, which provide insight into 18th-century domestic life. The image, part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, highlights the architectural details that define this historical site.

Frances Benjamin Johnston, the photographer, documented this remarkable building as part of a broader effort to preserve the architectural heritage of the American South. The photograph serves as a valuable resource for historians, educators, and enthusiasts of colonial architecture.