Provincial Powder Magazine, Charleston SC, 1703 History

This vintage photograph captures a significant architectural landmark in Charleston, South Carolina, known as the Provincial Powder Magazine, built in 1703. It was part of the original fortifications of the city, serving as a vital storage facility for gunpowder during colonial times. The structure showcases the craftsmanship of its era, featuring distinctive brickwork that reflects the building techniques prevalent in early 18th-century America.

The image is attributed to Frances Benjamin Johnston, a noted photographer whose work contributes to the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South. This survey aimed to document the architectural heritage of the southern United States, offering valuable insights into the regions history and culture. The photograph serves as a historical record of the Provincial Powder Magazine, highlighting its importance within Charlestons architectural landscape.

Preserved as part of the Library of Congresss Prints and Photographs Division, this photograph not only represents a key piece of Charlestons history but also exemplifies the broader architectural trends of the time.