Vintage Well House in Washington, GA - Early 20th Century

This vintage photograph captures a well house in Washington, Wilkes County, Georgia. Part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, the image documents early 20th-century architectural styles and rural life in Georgia. The well house, a crucial structure for accessing groundwater, reflects the practical needs of the time while showcasing local building techniques.

The photo was taken by Frances Benjamin Johnston, a noted photographer known for her work documenting Southern architecture. This particular image contributes to the historical record of Washington, providing insight into the communitys development and the essential elements of daily life in the region.

Acquired from Johnstons estate in 1953, this photograph is preserved in the Library of Congress, where it continues to be a valuable resource for researchers and history enthusiasts alike. The Carnegie Surveys extensive documentation serves as an important reference for understanding the cultural and architectural heritage of the American South.