Ruins of Hills House, Falmouth VA, 1928 Photograph

This vintage photograph by Frances Benjamin Johnston captures the ruins of Hills House in Falmouth, Stafford County, Virginia. Taken on commission from Mrs. Devore of Chatham, it documents a significant site that was eventually torn down in 1928. The image showcases the remnants of a once-grand structure, illustrating the architectural history of the area as part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South.

The photograph features boys playing near a stream, providing a glimpse into daily life in early 20th-century Virginia. The natural landscape and the houses ruins frame a scene that evokes a sense of nostalgia and connection to the past.

Johnstons work is recognized for its historical significance, offering insights into the architectural styles and cultural context of the time. This image is an important piece of Virginias heritage, preserved through the Carnegie Survey, and remains a valuable record of Falmouths history.

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.