Sweet Hall, King William VA, 1700: Colonial Architecture

This vintage photograph showcases Sweet Hall, located in King William County, Virginia. Built around 1700, this historic structure served as the residence of William Claiborne, the first Secretary of State of Virginia. Sweet Hall is significant as it was constructed on the original patent granted to Claiborne, reflecting early colonial architecture in the region.

The image highlights key architectural features, including its prominent porches, chimneys, and dormers. These elements are characteristic of early American homes and provide insight into the building practices and styles of the time. The photograph is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a project aimed at documenting the historical and architectural heritage of the southern United States.

This image, credited to Frances Benjamin Johnston, captures a pivotal piece of Virginias history. It serves not only as a visual record but also as an educational tool for those interested in early American architecture and the stories of influential figures like Claiborne.

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.