Untitled [unidentified outdoor scene of a victorian style house] 1858 - 1869

This photograph of an unidentified Victorian-style house was taken by Jeremiah Gurney, likely in the 1860s. The house is a statement of wealth and status, but it also reflects the growing emphasis on domesticity and family life in the mid-19th century. The architecture of the house speaks to the aspirations of the rising middle class in America. The Victorian style, with its ornate details and emphasis on individuality, was a departure from the more restrained styles of the past. It suggests a desire to create a unique and comfortable home. The careful landscaping further emphasizes the values of privacy, beauty and order. Gurney's work provides insight into the social values and aspirations of his time. Understanding this image requires delving into the history of photography, architectural trends, and social history, using sources like period magazines and census records. These resources help us interpret the photograph not just as a picture of a house, but as a window into a specific moment in American history.