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Colonial Photography—Viewfinder on the Past Photography Peels Back the Layers The continued use of older buildings and structures invariably results in modifications that obscure the architectural history and character of the original. By the time of the modern era, many surviving colonial structures had endured new siding and wall coverings, removal of distinctive period features, floor plan alterations, and expansions upon previous expansions. Modernization can include vital heating and cooling, plus lighting and electrical power technology. Restoration projects face the complicated task of peeling away the layers that are often integrated with essential new additions that need to be maintained. Photographic views taken in the middle of the 19th century can provide glimpses of the original state, because the layers were fewer.
Case 5 |
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Founded by Benjamin Franklin and Dr. Thomas Bond, the Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia has seen continued use from its opening in 1756 to modern times. Over the years there have been necessary additions and modifications that have changed much of the look. These images show the 19th century modernization of gas and electric lighting to the original building's pharmacy, library, and men's surgery. Air conditioning, and humidity controls are still to come.
John H. Packard Collection. The Pharmacy, Pennsylvania Hospital. Gelatin silver print. Ca. 1890.
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John G. Exilious. South East View of the Pennsylvania Hospital. Engraving. C.P. Harrison, printer. 1814.
John H. Packard Collection. The Library, Pennsylvania Hospital. Gelatin silver print. Ca. 1890. John H. Packard Collection. The Men's Surgery, Pennsylvania Hospital. Gelatin silver print. Ca. 1900. |
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Frederick DeBourg Richards. William Young's Bookshop from 1785 onward. Salt print. Ca. 1858. Under the stucco and behind the 19th century storefront and signage we can glimpse a brick colonial Philadelphia structure that is typical of the 18th century. |
Shirley, a Colonial Mansion on the James River. Plantinotype print. Ca. 1900. M.J. Powers. Shirley. Albumen stereograph. Ca. 1870. The Shirley plantation house, on the James River, was a supply depot for the Continental army. It was later home to the mother of Confederate General Robert E. Lee. Built in 1738, it has had only minimal modifications over the years. These images taken in the 1860s and later in the 1890s show the late 19th century addition of a side porch and the re-routing of the driveway. M.J. Powers. Shirley. Albumen stereograph. Ca. 1870. |
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