Sweet Hall, Virginia: Historic 1794 Structure in Photo

This vintage photograph captures a historical structure located in Sweet Hall, King William County, Virginia. Built in 1794 by James Ruffin, the house features distinctive architectural elements such as gambrel roofs and prominent chimneys. Notably, the site bears ruins of an earlier brick house dating back to the 1600s, highlighting the deep historical roots of the area.

The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a comprehensive project documenting Southern architecture. The survey aims to preserve and promote understanding of the regions architectural heritage through high-quality images and detailed records. This particular photograph was sourced from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953.

Sweet Hall serves as a testament to Virginias rich architectural history, reflecting the craftsmanship and design trends of its time. The photograph is not only a visual document but also a valuable resource for those interested in the evolution of American architecture in the South.