Sweet Hall, King William County VA, 1794 Vintage Photo

This vintage photograph showcases Sweet Hall, located in King William County, Virginia. Built in 1794 by James Ruffin, the structure is significant for its architectural history, featuring elements such as balusters and intricate woodwork. The image provides insight into the craftsmanship of the era and the design aesthetics prevalent in early American architecture.

Notably, the site contains remnants of an older house with brick dating back to the 1600s, highlighting the layered history of the location. The photograph was taken as part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, which aimed to document the rich architectural heritage of the region.

This image is a valuable resource for historians and architecture enthusiasts alike, illustrating not only the physical structure but also the cultural context of its time. The photograph is credited to Frances Benjamin Johnston, an important figure in early American photography, and was acquired from her estate in 1953.