Well House in West Point, VA - Carnegie Survey 1910s

This vintage photograph captures a well house in West Point, located in King William County, Virginia. The image was created as part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a project that documented significant architectural structures in the region. The well house reflects the utilitarian architecture of the area during the early 20th century and highlights the importance of water collection in rural communities.

The photograph is attributed to Frances Benjamin Johnston, a noted photographer known for her extensive work documenting American architecture and landscapes. This image is part of her inventory and is preserved in the Library of Congress. The survey aimed to provide a comprehensive look at the architecture of the Southern United States, emphasizing both residential and functional structures.

Acquired from the Frances Benjamin Johnston estate in 1953, this photograph serves as a historical record of the architectural landscape in Virginia. Its inclusion in the Carnegie Survey underscores the significance of well houses in the communitys historical infrastructure.

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