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New Dominion Bookshop to host book talk on Virginia architect Stanhope Johnson

Chris Graham

New Dominion BookshopNew Dominion Bookshop in Charlottesville will host a book talk and signing with Carolyn Frazier—author of Stanhope, Chronologically—on Saturday, February 2, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. This event is free to attend.

Stanhope, Chronologically explores the career of Stanhope Johnson, a prolific Lynchburg-based architect of the mid-20th century, who practiced for an amazing 69 years from New York to Texas. Best known for his Georgian-revival designs, he also produced excellent work in the Arts & Crafts, Art Deco, Stripped Classicism, and International styles, as well as one interesting Prairie house and several humble Vernacular pieces. In Albemarle-Charlottesville, his notable pieces include residences (Gallison Hall, Oak Forest, Belvoir, Oak Hill, additions to Boxwood, and the renovation of Darby’s Folly), the 1924 Monticello Hotel (now known as 500 Court Square), and the 1928 Martha Jefferson Hospital (now CFA).

Stanhope Johnson lived his entire life in Lynchburg. Carolyn Frazier lived the first part of her life there and, as a child, fell in love with Johnson’s work. Later she moved to Charlottesville (UVA Class of 1975) and enjoyed building a successful retail chain while living in Richmond and Farmville. After selling the business, she and her husband (The Rev. Dr. Allie Frazier) retired to Charlottesville. Her encore career was ten happy years with Hantzmon Wiebel. Stanhope was her third career. A Master Gardener, she has a special interest in roses. Volunteer, board, and parish work are important ways she participates in her communities.

Chris Graham

Chris Graham

Chris Graham, the king of "fringe media," a zero-time Virginia Sportswriter of the Year, and a member of zero Halls of Fame, is the founder and editor of Augusta Free Press. A 1994 alum of the University of Virginia, Chris is the author and co-author of seven books, including Poverty of Imagination, a memoir published in 2019. For his commentaries on news, sports and politics, go to his YouTube page, or subscribe to his Street Knowledge podcast. Email Chris at [email protected].