Sweet Hall, King William County, VA - Historic Photo 1794

This vintage photograph captures the historic Sweet Hall, located in King William County, Virginia. Constructed in 1794 by James Ruffin, the building is notable for its architectural significance and its connection to the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South. The image showcases intricate woodwork and chimneypieces that reflect the craftsmanship of the era.

Adjacent to Sweet Hall are the ruins of an earlier structure, with brick dating back to the 1600s, highlighting the long-standing history of the site. This layering of history provides insight into the architectural evolution and cultural heritage of the region.

Frances Benjamin Johnston, the photographer, documented this location as part of her extensive work on Southern architecture. The photograph serves as an important visual record, contributing to the understanding of Virginias architectural landscape. This image is part of the collection housed at the Library of Congress, enriching the narrative of American history.