St. Annes Parish House, Loretto VA, 1731 Vintage Photo

This vintage photograph by Frances Benjamin Johnston depicts St. Annes parish house, located in Loretto, Essex County, Virginia. Built around 1731, this historic structure is a notable example of early American architecture, characterized by its distinctive brickwork and gabled roof. The building has significant ties to the Episcopal Church, reflecting the religious heritage of the region.

Captured as part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, this image contributes to the understanding of colonial architecture in Virginia. It was later published in the book Colonial Churches in Virginia by Henry Irving Brock in 1930, which highlights the importance of such structures in American history.

This photograph serves as a valuable visual resource for those interested in colonial architecture, church history, and the cultural landscape of 18th-century Virginia. The preservation of these images ensures that the architectural legacy of the past continues to inform and inspire future generations.