Northumberland County Plantation, Virginia 1687 History

This vintage photograph, captured by Frances Benjamin Johnston, showcases a significant plantation in Northumberland County, Virginia, originally constructed in 1687. The building, which underwent renovations around 1785, was granted to Colonel Richard Lee, a notable figure in Virginias colonial history. The estate is named after a Lee ancestral home near Oxford, England, reflecting the familys heritage and influence in the region.

The interior of the plantation features distinct architectural elements, including stoves and chimneypieces, which provide insight into the living conditions and aesthetic preferences of the time. Johnstons work is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, an initiative aimed at documenting and preserving the architectural legacy of the southern United States.

This photograph serves as a historical record of both the architecture and lifestyle of early American plantation life. It offers a glimpse into the past, capturing the essence of Virginias rich history and the legacy of the Lee family within it.