Richmond 150 years ago

[CSA Today]

150 YEARS AGO: Reflecting on her city, Sallie Putnam wrote, "Richmond was growing rusty, dilapidated, and began to assume a war-worn appearance. Very few of the buildings had been brightened by a fresh application of paint since the commencement of hostilities, and where a plank fell off or a screw got loose, or a gate fell from its hinges, or a bolt gave way, or a lock was broken, it was most likely to remain for a time unrepaired."

 

[dlofting]

Just guessing, but would this photo have been taken from the area near Chimborazo Hospital or St. John's Church ? I'm trying to remember where there is a hill in that area of the city that would provide this perspective.

 

[AndyHall]

Just guessing, but would this photo have been taken from the area near Chimborazo Hospital or St. John's Church ? I'm trying to remember where there is a hill in that area of the city that would provide this perspective.

Yes, I believe it's from Church Hill, with Chimborazo behind the photographer. Very close to St. John's Church. The intersection in the foreground is, I think, Grace and 20th Street, which would have the wagons in the street in front of Seabrook's Warehouse. It's part of a series taken after the fall of Richmond that make up a panorama.

 

[Caswell Ranger]

Yes, I believe it's from Church Hill, with Chimborazo behind the photographer. Very close to St. John's Church. The intersection in the foreground is, I think, Grace and 20th Street, which would have the wagons in the street in front of Seabrook's Warehouse. It's part of a series taken after the fall of Richmond that make up a panorama.

http://www.mdgorman.com/Hospitals/general_hospital_9.htm

I am presuming here we are talking about the warehouse that became receiving hospital #9? The link shows the sight about two blocks off to the left or right. Casualties were received there then moved to the appropriate hospital. "Appropriate" by state.

Thanks for the info Andy and the photo CSA.

 

[AndyHall]

http://www.mdgorman.com/Hospitals/general_hospital_9.htm

I am presuming here we are talking about the warehouse that became receiving hospital #9? The link shows the sight about two blocks off to the left or right. Casualties were received there then moved to the appropriate hospital. "Appropriate" by state.

I was going by the building label on the map of Richmond in the OR Atlas. But yes, that sounds like the same place. In the full-resolution image you can see the rail cars at the Virginia Central Depot beyond.