St. Augustine, FL Vintage Coffeehouse Photo, 1953

This vintage photograph, created by Frances Benjamin Johnston, captures a scene in St. Augustine, Florida, specifically in St. Johns County. The image, known as Huertas-Canova, features a coffeehouse adorned with elegant balconies, illustrating the architectural style prevalent during the early 20th century.

St. Augustine is renowned for its rich history, being the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States. The Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which includes this photograph, aimed to document the unique architectural heritage of the region. The image serves as a valuable resource for understanding the cultural and architectural evolution of this historic city.

Acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953, the photograph is part of the Library of Congress’s collection. It stands as a testament to Johnstons dedication to documenting American architecture and the historical significance of St. Augustine.