Colonial Williamsburg Digital Library

EWING HOUSE
Block 2
Colonial Lot 604
Francis Street

LOCATION:

The lot known as the Ewing property or house was located on the south side of Francis Street in Williamsburg. On Tyler's adaptation of the College Map (1791 ?) the lot is marked "604" and "Ewing." (See: map opposite page.)

HISTORY:

Peter Moyer, a baker, appears to be the first known owner of the property. Moyer's name is written sometimes as Moiers, Myer, Miers and Mires.

In 1762 his name appears as the father of George Mires just baptized.¹ In 1763 Mary Elizabeth, daughter of Peter and Rebecca Moyer, was baptized in Bruton Parish.²

In 1768 Moyer paid tax in James City County,¹ and bought 18 bushels of wheat from Carter Burwell's estate.² In 1772 he was furnished wood by Benjamin Weldon. Accounts state that Moyer was a baker.³ In 1775 Moyer was paid £15.19.4 for bread.⁴ In 1776 he is listed as the head of a family in Williamsburg.⁵ In 1782 Moyer is noted as owner of 2 lots taxed at £4.⁶

The Frenchman's Map of Williamsburg (1782) shows a house facing on what appears to be Botetourt Street.⁷

In 1787 Humphrey Harwood, Williamsburg brick mason and builder, worked from June to September making repairs etc. for Moyer.¹ He furnished bricks (2000, 2000, 2664, 1000, 13,300 and 1500) used in building fireplace, chimney, cellar and other construction.

Following the changes to his property, Moyer's land tax was increased from £5 to £10. He continued to own the 2 lots taxed at £10 to 1796 when his name disappears from the records.² As no personal property tax appears against him after 1792, though his estate paid land tax until 1795 it seems conclusive that he had died.

The year after Moyer's name disappeared from the Williamsburg Land Tax records, one Ebenezer Ewing's appeared as owner of 2 lots taxed at £10 (identical amount charged heretofore to Moyer's estate). In Ewing's will (to follow in the report) he stated that he bought his property from Frederick Myers.³

The loss of the James City County records by fire in the Civil War period, deprived owner or owners before and after that date of clear titles to property- such as deeds or wills which would decide the titles without question. So, research has to deduce and interpret from the scant records now extant.

Ewing seems to have had some type of store in the city. In 1789 St. George Tucker, Williamsburg lawyer and citizen, bought buttons, thread, coating materials, and nails amounting to £18.2.9; and in 1790 he bought similar articles.^l Prior to 1789 (in 1787-1788 Ewing was a member of the firm of "Ewing & Furgusson."²

Ebenezer Ewing was a Scotsman. The Land Tax records so state.³

Little could be found about Ewing. However, he had an account with Humphrey Harwood for minor repairs to a house from late 1786 to August, 1788. The total account -5- amounted to £35.17.8 ¼ paid for white-washing room, repairing cellar steps etc.¹ (This work, evidently, was done at some other location as Moyer was having Harwood make extensive changes for him in 1787.²)

Ewing's will dated October 25, 1795 with codicil of same date, was proved. in Hustings Court on December 7, 1795 and ordered recorded. As the Hustings Court records are not extant, Ewing's will (copy) was located in the Southall Papers at William and Mary College. The will follows:

[1795 Oct. 25]

I will that Elizabeth Ashton who is the mother of my son Thomas and who lives with me, may have the use of my house that lately purchased from the estate of Frederick Myers, deceased situated in the city of Wmsburg, as long as she continues unmarried ….
All the rest of my estate, real, personal, or mixed situated in Scotland, Virga, or in any part of the world &c I give, devise and bequeath to my son Thomas Ewing now living with me, & who was begotten on the body of the sd Elizh Ashton, upon the following terms: should my sd son Thomas die under the age of 21 years, unless he marries & has a child, then I give all the estate so before devised &bequeathed him, to my brothers or sisters, -6- or such of them, or their reprsn. as may be alive at the death of my said son Thomas. But if said son Thomas attains age of 21 years or marries & leaves a child, then the estate given to him, is given to him & his heirs forever.
I beg & intreat that the revd James Henderson will undertake the extship of my son Thomas. & that the Int of his money in Va & the profits of his estate may be applied towards boarding, clothing & educating my son -- My negro fellow I wish Elizabeth Ashton may have the use of as long as she continues unmarried. The moment she marries or dies all the estate left her becomes the property of my said son Thomas under the like restrictions as the other part of my estate given him.¹

In 1799 Elizabeth Ashton was dead. Henderson administrator, gave bond for $200. In 1800 an appraisal -7- of the estate was £15.3.3; sales were £39.13.0 mostly clothing and furnishings.¹ A suit in Chancery Court by Thomas Ashton (son of Ebenezer Ewing and Elizabeth Ashton) by James Henderson, guardian and adm. vs. Adam Craig adm. of David Miller and James Ferguson, executors of Ewing, asked for a settlement of Ewing's estate. No decree was rendered.²

On July 22, 1805 the Hustings Court of Williamsburg ordered Henderson "to bond out Thomas Ewing, either to Wm Morson Comr of ship Aberdeen, or ---- [sic] Thompkins Comr of ship ---- [sic] for 3 years to learn art of seaman or mariner &"³

In 1801 Henderson as guardian of Thomas Ewing insured his property with the Mutual Assurance Society stating it was "on a back street leading to the Main street now occupied by Peter Godin, between Josias Moody and Philip Moody." The house was 34 by 20 feet and one story high with kitchen within 20 feet.⁴

On May 28, 1806 Henderson insured Thomas Ewing's house. It was described as "…on the south side of -8- now occupied by and situated between the Lott of Josias Moody on the West and the Lott of Anthony Robertson on the East in the County of James City&"¹ The building was a wooden dwelling 1 story high duch [sic] roof 36 by 22 feet. It shows a street 66 feet wide to the west of the lot but no street towards the east of the lot.

Another policy of date 1815 indicated that "the buildings were owned by the legatees of Ebenezer Ewing residing at in the Island of Great Britain and is occupied by Mrs Sweeney That the same is situated on Francis Street in Williamsburg between the lots of Moody on the West and Bracken on the East, in the County of James City…"² See also Petition of 1839, which states: "This property I understand was left by Ebenezer Ewing will be [sic] his son Thomas Ewing and if his said son died before he reached twenty one years, the same was to go to persons in great Britain-James Henderson was the Guardian - Thomas died under age and the property is escheatable to the Commonwealth ---Henderson upon the death of Thomas Ewing ceased to receive the rent and consequently to pay the annual quotas."³

In 1823 the property was insured thus: "That the Building is at present owned by the Heirs of said Ebenezer Ewing residing at Europe or elsewhere and is now occupied by Wm Sweeny that it is situated on Catherine Street in Williamsburg and the lots of Thomas Sands East and William Moody South and West in the County of James City…"¹

Quotas from the Mutual Assurance Society from 1812-1839 show that the estate was charged for each year but no payment was noted. Interest was charged against the estate.²

In 1830 the property in which the appraisers declared "that the said Buildings are at present owned by Ebenezer Ewing's heirs who are foreigners residing at Great Britain and are occupied by Colin Palmer. That they are situated on Frances Street in Williamsburg, between Thomas Sand's lot on the East William Moodys lot on the -10- South and West, and Frances Street on the north in the county of James City…"¹

In 1839 under Policy #11004 a revaluation of #7589 the building was "at present owned by Ebenezer Ewing's heirs residing at Great Britain and are occupied by William Bassett That it is situated on the Francis Street in Williamsburg on the North and between William M. Moody's lot on the west and Scervant Jones lot east in the county of …"²

In 1839 there was a suit in Williamsburg Hustings Court: The Mutual Assurance Society against fire on buildings of the State of Virginia plts: against Richard Bassett Defs. In Chancery …doth adjudge order and decree that George W. McCandlish be and he is hereby appointed a Special Commissioner who is directed to sell the buildings in the bill and proceedings mentioned at public sale for Cash before the Courthouse door of the City of Williamsburg on some Court-day… and that he convey the same to the purchaser and out of the proceeds of the sale that he pay to the plaintiffs the sum of one hundred and sixty seven -11- dollars and eighty six cents with interest on eighty eight dollars and sixty one cents part thereof from the first day of November 1839 till paid and the Costs of this suit and the residue pay to the said Richard Bassett and that he report his proceedings to this Court…"¹ McCandlish reported that "Richard Bassett became the purchaser at one hundred and ninety six dollars and 75 cents who paid the money and to whom I gave a deed."²

In 1840 Richard Bassett, the new owner, insured the buildings formerly Ebenezer Ewing's estate thus: "… my building on Francis Street in Williamsburg now occupied by myself situated between the lot of William M. Moody on the West and Richard Graves on the East--Francis Street on the North in the county of James City…" and declared that he held "the above mentioned building with the land on which it stands in fee simple…"³ At this date the -12- dwelling was two stories 22 by 36 feet.

Williamsburg Land Tax records indicate that Richard Bassett was owner of 1 lot- $600; $500 Via George W. McCandlish Commissioner - heretofore to Ewing's estate. Bassett held the property to 1850 when it was carried as Estate. This ownership continued to 1857 when no Bassett appears in the Tax records.¹

However, prior to his death, Bassett insured his property in 1846 thus: "…at present owned by Richard Bassett residing at Richmond and is occupied by G. P. Doughtry That it is situated on the south side of Francis Street in Williamsburg between the lots of D. S. Cowles on the West and Richard H. Graves on the East … Dwelling A at $800. A wood Kitchen is towards the west rear and a wood building to the east. Moody's land to the south.²

In 1853 the heirs of Richard Bassett insured the property thus: "…is occupied by Lucy Bryan and Sarah Presson That it is situated on Frances street in Williamsburg on the North, the lot of David S. Cowles on the west, and -13- Richard H. Graves on the East." There are two wood buildings between the kitchen and Frances street and the same wood building as in 1846 policy towards the east. Note states "The building A is contiguous to one brick building covered with wood, and to ten wood buildings."¹

In 1860 John F: Daugherty insured the property thus: "…I the underwritten John F. Daugherty residing at Williamsburg in the county of James City do hereby declare for Assurance in the Mutual Assurance Society against Fire …my Building on the south side of Frances Street now occupied by myself situated between the property of David S. Cowles on the West and that of R. H. Graves on the East, in the said City of Williamsburg and in the county of James City …Dwelling A at $1200…2 stories high Walls & Roof - Wood…"²

Mrs. Victoria Lee recalling Williamsburg in 1861 had a few remarks about the Sweeney house [formerly Ewing]: "…The present Sweeney House, which stands next to the Roper House, had at that time no porch. A family by the -14- name of Daugherty occupied this house. The Graves owned and occupied a small brick house that was next to the present Sweeney House…"¹

Mr. John S. Charles, another old citizen of the town in 1928, gave his recollections of people and locations in the Civil War period. He commented on the Francis street lots and houses on the south side thus: "The houses on Francis Street east of Queen Street appear today very much as they did many years ago, with the exception of the old dutch roof house, next to the Camm property, which is now very much dilapidated ….The row of houses next east on Francis Street were all there when the War began, and presented much the same appearance as now …."²

An archaeological report describes the Ewing house and the various changes as shown by archaeology.³

Illustration #1

From Frenchman's Map 1782?

Illustration #2

Illustration #2

Illustration #3

[1801]
DECLARATION FOR ASSURANCE No. 488

THE underwritten James Henderson Guardian to Thomas Ewing, residing at Williamsburg in the county of James City do hereby declare for Assurance in the Mutual Assurance Society against Fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia, established the 26th December, 1795, agreeable to the several acts of the General Assembly of this state, to wit:

My One building on on [sic] a back Street leading to the Main Street at the sd place now occupied by Peter Godin situated between the House of Josiah Moody and that of Philip Moody in the county of James City their dimensions, situation, and contiguity to other buildings or wharves what the walls are built of, and what the buildings are covered with, are specified in the hereunto annexed description of the said buildings on the plat, signed by me and the appraisers, and each valued by them as appears by their certificate hereunder, to wit.

I do hereby declare and affirm that I hold the above mentioned buildings with the land on which they stand, in fee-simple, and that they are not, nor shall be insured elsewhere, without giving notice thereof, agreeable to the policy that may issue in my name, upon the filing of this declaration, and provided the whole sum does not exceed -20- four-fifths of the verified value and that I will abide by, observe, and adhere to the Constitution, Rules and Regulations as are already established, or may hereafter be established by a majority of the insured, present in person, or by representatives, or by the majority of the property insured represented, either by the persons themselves, or their proxy duly authorised, or their deputy as established by law, at any general meeting, to be held by the said Assurance Society. Witness my hand and seal at Williamsburg this twenty third day of July 1801.

James Henderson, Guardian (LS)
for Thos Ewing
Teste
Lewis Rivalain

WE the underwritten, being each of us house-owners, declare and affirm that we have examined the above mentioned property of Thomas Ewing and that we are of opinion that it would cost in cash five hundred Dollars to build the same, and is now (after deduction of One hundred & Seventy Dollars for decay or bad repair) actually worth three hundred & thirty Dollars in ready money, as above specified to the best of our knowledge and belief, and he the said subscriber has acknowledged before us his above signature.

)Residing in Williamsburg One of the )
Valuers Ben Waller)
A valuer Litt. Tazewell
Ditto Philip Moody

The said house is within 20 feet of a wooden Kitchen
L. Rivalain

[1806] Revaluation of the Buildings insured per Declaration No. 488 as per Endorsement hereon -- No. 710

I the underwritten James Henderson Guardian of Thomas Ewing residing at Wmsburg in the county of James City do hereby declare for Assurance in the Mutual Assurance Society against Fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia.

My one Building on the South side of now occupied by and situated between the Lott of Josias Moody on the West and the Lott of Antony Robertson on the East in the county of James City its dimension,s situation and contiguity to other Buildings or Wharves, what the walls are built of, and what the Buildings are covered with, are specified in the hereunto annexed description of the said Building on the plat, signed by me and the appraisers. and are valued by them, as appears by their certificate hereunder, to wit:

I do hereby declare, and affirm, that I as the Guardian aforesd hold the above-mentioned Building with the land on which it stands in fee-simple, and that It will is not, nor shall be insured elsewhere, and that I will abide by, observe and adhere to the Constitution, Rules, and Regulations, which are already established, or may hereafter be established by a majority of the Insured, present in person, or by representatives, or by the majority of the property Insured, represented either by the persons themselves, or their proxy duly authorised, or -22- their Deputy, as established by law, at any General Meeting to be held by the said Assurance Society; or which are or hereafter may be established by the President and Directors of the Society. Witness, my hand and seal at Wmsburg this 28th day of May 1806

James Henderson (Seal)
Guardian to T. Ewing
Teste,
Wm Armistead Special Agent.

WE the underwritten, being each of us Freeholders, declare and affirm, that we have examined the above-mentioned Building of James Henderson Guardian of Thos Ewing and that we are of opinion that it would cost in cash nine hundred Dollars, to build the same, and that now (after the deduction of one hundred Dollars) it is actually worth eight hundred Doll-------Dollars in ready money, as above specified to the best of our knowledge and belief, and he the said subscriber has acknowledged before us his above signature.

I the undersigned do Josias Moody ) Residing in Wmsburg
hereby certify that I Leroy Anderson.)
verily believe the
Building herein de-
scribed is not over-valued.

Wm Armistead Special Agent

No. 1520 [1815]
Revaluation of Building declared for Assurance by James Henderson as Guardian of Thomas Ewing as per Declaration No. 710
No 1520

WE the underwritten Robert Anderson Special Agent, and Richard Garrett and Thomas Sands Appraisers, Do Hereby Certify, that we have viewed and revalued, the Building heretofore declared for Assurance, in the Mutual Assurance Society against Fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia, by James Henderson, Guardian of Thomas Ewing as per his Declaration for Assurance, Numbered 710 -- That the said Building is at present owned by the Legatees of Ebenezer Ewing residing in the Island of Great Britain and is occupied by Mrs Sweeney -- That the same is situated on Francis Street in Williamsburg between the lots of Moody on the West and Bracken on the East in the County of James City

We further Certify, that its Dimensions, Situation, and Contiguity to other Buildings or Wharves, what the Walls are built of, and what the Building is covered with, are specified in the hereunto annexed Description of the said Building on the Plat signed by us; And We the undersigned Appraisers, have valued the said Building, and certify its actual value to be, as expressed in our Certificate hereunder, to wit,

WITNESS our hands, This 21st June ---- day of ------ One Thousand Eight Hundred and fifteen.

Ro: Anderson - Special Agent for the State
Rd Garrett Appraiser residing in Wmsburg
Thomas Sands Appraiser, residing in Wmsburg

WE the underwritten, being each of us Freeholders, declare and affirm, that we have examined the above-mentioned building of Ebenezer Ewings Legatees in Great Britain and we are of opinion that it would cost in cash one thousand dollars to build the same, and that now (after the deduction of three hundred dollars) it is actually worth Seven Hundred dollars in ready money, as above specified to the best of our knowledge and belief. As witness our hands

Rd Garrett
I the undersigned do )
hereby certify that I ) Thomas Sands
verily believe the )
building herein described)
is not over-valued, )
Ro: Anderson Special Agent

[1830]
No. 7589 ) Re-valuation of Building declared for Assurance ) by Ebenezer Ewing's heirs as per Declaration No. 5027

We, the underwritten Robert Anderson Special Agent, and Thomas Sands, and William M. Moody, Appraisers, do hereby certify, that we have viewed and re-valued the Building heretofore declared for Assurance, in the MUTUAL ASSURANCE SOCIETY against Fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia, by Ebenezer Ewing's heirs as per a Declaration for Assurance, Numbered 5027. That the said Buildings are at present owned by Ebenezer Ewing's heirs who are foreigners residing at Great Britain and are occupied by Colin Palmer. That they are situated on Frances Street in Williamsburg, between Thomas Sand's lot on the East William Moodys lot on the South and West, and Frances Street north in the county of James City. We further certify, that the dimensions, situation and contiguity to other Buildings or Wharves, what the walls are built of, and what the Buildings are covered with, are specified in the hereunto annexed description of the said Building on the plat signed by us: And we, the undersigned appraisers, have valued the said Building, and certify its actual value to be, as expressed in our certificate hereunder, to wit:

WITNESS our hands, this 20 day of May one thousand eight hundred and thirty

Ro: Anderson Special Agent for the M.A.Society
Thomas Sands Appraiser, residing in Wmsburg
Wm M: Moody Appraiser, residing in Wmsburg

We, the underwritten, being each of us freeholders, declare and affirm, that we have examined the above mentioned Building of Ebenezer Ewings heirs and we are of opinion that it would cost in cash Eleven Hundred dollars to build the same, and that now, (after the deduction of Three Hundred dollars) it is actually worth Eight Hundred dollars in ready money, as above specified, to the best of our knowledge and belief. As witness our hands,

Thomas Sands
Wm M: Moody

I, the undersigned, do hereby certify, that )
I verily believe the building herein )
described is not over-valued. )

Ro: Anderson Special Agent.

[1839]
) Re-valuation of Building declared for Assurance No. 11004 ) by the heirs of Ebenezer Ewing as per Declara- ) tion No. 7589.

We, the underwritten Robert Anderson Special Agent, and Lucius F Cary and Albert G Southall Appraisers, do hereby certify, that we have viewed and re-valued the Building heretofore declared for Assurance, in the MUTUAL ASSURANCE SOCIETY against Fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia, by the heirs of Ebenezer Ewing as per their Declaration for Assurance, Numbered No 7589 That the said Building is at present owned by Ebenezer Ewings heirs residing at Great Britain and are occupied by William Bassett That it is situated on the Francis Street in Williamsburg on the North and between William M. Moody's lot on the west and Scervant Jones lot east in the county of We further certify, that its dimensions, situation and contiguity to other Buildings or Wharves, what the walls are built of, and what the Building is covered with, are specified in the hereunto annexed description of the said Building on the plat signed by us: And we, the undersigned Appraisers, have valued the said Building, and certify its actual value to be, as expressed in our certificate here-under, to wit:

WITNESS our hands, this 24th day of April one thousand eight hundred and thirty nine

Ro: Anderson Special Agent for the M. A. Society
A G Southall Appraiser, residing in Wmsburg
Lucius F Cary Appraiser, residing in Wmsburg

We, the underwritten, being each of us freeholders, declare and affirm, that we have examined the above mentioned Building of the heirs of Ebenezer Ewing and we are of opinion that it would cost in cash Twelve [sic] dollars to build the same, and that now, (after the deduction of six hundred dollars) it is actually worth six hundred dollars in ready money, as above specified, to the best of our knowledge and belief. As witness our hands,

A G Southall
Lucius F. Cary

I, the undersigned, do hereby certify, that )
I verily believe the building herein )
described is not over-valued. )

Ro: Anderson SPECIAL AGENT

M-34
Williamsburg City Petitions 1776 ff
James City County Petitions

[1839]
Mutual Assurance Socty
vs Copy record
Richard Bassett
Decr

To the Hustings Court of Williamsburg in Chancery setting

Humbly complaining shew unto your worships, your Orators the Mutual Assurance Society against Fire in buildings of the State of Virginia

That many years ago, a certain Ebenezer Ewing declared for insurance in your Orators office, his certain building and dwelling house, in said City, and after his death a certain James Henderson as Guardian of the Heirs continued the said insurance from time to time all which will appear by reference to the papers herewith filed marked A. B. C. and which are preyed [sic] to be taken as part of this bill. That the quotas on said building have not been paid since 1812 and the amount now due to your Orators with -30- interest from the lst Nov 1839 is one hundred and sixty seven dollars and eighty six Cents according to papers D & E herewith filed as part of this bill.

That a certain Richard Bassett is now the owner of said property having purchased the same from the person who last held the same. That by law the said building is liable for the amount due to your Orators as aforesaid, and as no person, will pay the same, your Orators are driven to the necessity of applying to this Court to enforce their specific lien on the said property.

In tender consideration whereof and for as much as your Orators are without relief in the premises, save by the aid of a Court of equity where matters of this kind are properly cognizable; To the end therefore your Orators prays that the said Richard Bassett may be made a party Deft. to this bill, with apt and proper words to charge him as such, that he answer the same on oath, that thereupon a decree may be made for the sale of the said buildings, and your Orators debt paid, and generally that your Orators may have such other and further relief in the premises consistent with equity and good conscience - May it please the Court &c

(The answer of Richard Bassett)

The answer of Richard Bassett to a bill of complaint exhibited against him in the Hustings Court of Williamsburg by the Mutual Assurance Society against fire on buildings in the State of Virginia.

This respondent now and at all times saving and reserving all just exceptions to the said Bill for its manifest errors and imperfections, in answer thereto, answer and say, that he believes it to be true the Building in the bill mentioned was insured in the Office of the Complainants, that the Quotas have not been paid for many years, so far as he knows or believes, and that he believes the Plaintiffs Claim is properly stated in the exhibits filed with their bill. He further answers that he is now the owner of said building and he is informed the same is liable for the Claim of the Complainants, and therefore hp does not oppose a sale of the property, but on the contrary he is willing that the same may be sold to pay the said claim. And this defendant having now answered prays to be hence dismissed -31- with his costs &c without &c

City of Williamsburg to wit.

Richard Bassett made oath before me, James Lee a Justice of the peace, in and for the said City, that the matter contained in the foregoing answer, so far as they are stated to be of his own knowledge are true, and so far as he has heard them from others and declares his belief of them, he does believe them to be true.

Given under my hand this 29th day of November 1839

James Lee

(Exhibit A refered to in the Bill)

Revaluation of the building insured per declaration Town No. 488 as per endorsement hereon [1801]

No. 710 [1806]

I the underwritten James Henderson Guardian of Thomas Ewing residing at Williamsburg in the County of James City do hereby declare for assurance in the mutual assurance society against fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia--

My one building on the south side of ____________ now occupied by and situated between the lot of Josias Moody on the West and the lot of Anthony Robinson on the East, in the County of James City its dimension, situation and contiguity to other buildings or wharves, what the walls are built of, and what the buildings are covered with, are specified in the hereunto annexed descriptions of the said Building - on the plot, signed by me, and the appraisers, and are Valued by them, as appears by their Certificate hereunder, to wit.

I do hereby declare, and affirm, that I as the Guardian aforesaid hold the above mentioned Building with the land on which it stands in fee simple, and that it is not, nor shall be insured elsewhere, and that I will abide by, observe and adhere, to the constitution, Rules and regulations which are already established or may hereafter be established by a majority of the insured, present in person, or by representatives or by the Majority of the property insured, present in person or by their Proxy duly authorized, or their Deputy, as established by law, at any General meeting to be held by the said assurance Society; or which are or hereafter may be established by the President and Directors of the Society. Witness my hand and seal at Williamsburg this 28th day of May 1806

James Henderson
Guardn to T. Ewing (Seal)
Teste
Wm Armistead Special Agent

We the undersigned, being each of us freeholders declare and affirm, that we have examined the above building of James Henderson Guardian of Thos Ewing and that we are of opinion that it would cost in Cash nine hundred dollars to build the same, and that now (after the deduction of one hundred dollars) it is actually worth eight hundred dollars in ready money, as above specified to the best of our knowledge and belief, and he the subscriber has acknowledged before us his above signature.

Josias Moody ) Residuary in Reroy [sic] Anderson) Williamsburg

The undersigned do hereby certify that I do verily believe the building herein described is not over valued
Wm Armistead Special Agent

I James Rawlings Principal Agent of the Mutual Assurance Society against fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia do hereby Certify that the within is a true Copy of a declaration for assurance filed and recorded in the Office of the said Society.

In Testimony where of I hereunto set my hand and the seal of the said Society at its office in the City of Richmond this 8th day of May 1828

James Rawlings

(Exhibit B filed with the bill.)

[1815]
No. 1520 Revaluation of Building declared for assurance by James Henderson Guardian of Thomas Ewing as per Declaration No. 710.

We the underwritten Robert Anderson Special Agent and Richard Garrett and Thomas Sands Appraisers, do hereby certify that we have viewed and revalued the buildings heretofore declared for assurance in the Mutual Assurance Society against fire on buildings of the State of Virginia by James Henderson Guardian of Thomas Ewing as per his declaration for assurance No. 710. That the buildings is at present owned by the Legatees of Ebenezer Ewing residing at ___________ in the Island of Great Britain and is occupied by Mr Sweeny -34- That the same is situated on Frances Street in Williamsburg, between the lots of Moody on the West and Bracken on the East, in the County of James City; We further Certify that its dimensions, situation, and contiguity to other Buildings or Wharves, what the Walls are built of, and what the building is covered with, are specified in the hereunto annexed description of the said Building on the plot signed by us: And we the undersigned appraisers, have valued the said Building and Certify its actual value to be, as expressed in our Certificate hereunder to wit:

Witness our hands this 21st June one thousand eight hundred and fifteen.

Ro: Anderson Special Agent for the State
Rd: Garrett Appraiser residing in W_msbur
Thomas Sands Appraiser residing in Wmsburg

We the underwritten, being each of us freeholders, declare and affirm, that we have examined the above mentioned building of Ebenezer Ewing's Legatee in Great Britain and we are of opinion that it would cost in Cash one thousand Dollars to build the same, and that now (after the deduction of three hundred) it is actually worth seven hundred dollars in ready money, as above specified to the best of our knowledge and belief.

As Witness our Hands
Rd Garrett )
Thomas Sands
) Residing in

I, the undersigned do hereby Certify )
that I verily believe the building )
herein described is not over valued )

Ro: Anderson Special Agent

I, James Rawlings principal Agent of the Mutual Assurance Society against fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia, do hereby Certify that the above and the endorsement thereon make a true Copy of a declaration for assurance filed and recorded in the office of the said Scoiety

In testimony where of I hereunto set my hand and the Seal of the said Society at Richmond this 8th May 1828

James Rawlings

This property I understand was left by Ebenezer Ewing will be [sic] his son Thomas Ewing and if his said son died before he reached twenty one years, the same was to go to persons in great Britain - James Henderson was the Guardian - Thomas died under age and the property is escheatable to the Commonwealth --- Henderson upon the death of Thomas Ewing ceased to receive the rent and consequently to pay the annual quotas.

Ro: Anderson Spl Agent.

(Exhibit C filed with the bill)

[1823]
No. 5027 Revaluation of Building declared for Assurance by Ebenezer Ewing decd as per declaration No. 1520.

We the underwritten Robert Anderson Special Agent and Thomas Sands and Henry Guthrie appraisers, do hereby certify that we have viewed and revalued the building heretofore declared for assurance, in the Mutual assurance Society against fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia by Ebenezer Ewing as per his declaration for assurance, Numbered 1520.

That the said Building is at present owned by the Heirs of said Ebenezer Ewing residing at Europe or elsewhere and is now occupied by Wm Sweeny that it is situated on Catharine Street in Williamsburg and the lots of Thomas Sands East and William Moody South and West in the County of James City. We further certify that its dimensions, situation, and Contiguity to other buildings or Wharves, what the Walls are built of, and what the building is covered with, are specified in the herewith annexed description of the said building on the plot signed by us: And we the undersigned appraisers have valued the said Building and Certify its actual Value to be, as expressed in our Certificate hereunder to wit

Witness our hands, this 28th day of March one thousand eight hundred and twenty three. Ro: Anderson Special Agent for the Society

Thomas Sands Appraiser residing in Williamsburg

Henry P. Guthrie Appraiser residing in Williamsburg

We the underwritten, being each of us freeholders, declare and affirm, that we have examined the above mentioned building of Ebenezer Ewing's heirs and we are of opinion that it would cost in Cash One thousand two hundred dollars to build the same, and that now (after deducting of six hundred) it is actually worth six hundred dollars in ready money, as above specified, to the best of our knowledge and belief. As Witness our hands.

Thomas Sands
Henry Guthrie

I, the undersigned do hereby )
certify that I verily believe)
the building herein described)
is not overvalued -----------)

Ro: Anderson Special Agent

I James Rawlings principal Agent of the Mutual Assurance Society against fire on buildings of the State of Virginia do hereby Certify that the above with the endorsements thereon constitute a true Copy of the Declaration of revaluation filed and recorded in the office of the said Society

In Testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand and affix the seal of the said society at Richmond this 8th day of May 1828

James Rawlings

Williamsburg City to wit:

The within named Thomas Sands and Henry Guthrie this day personally appeared before me, the subscriber, a Magistrate for the City aforesaid and made oath that the within Valuation has been made according to the best of their Skill and Judgment.

Given under my hand this 7th day of April 1823
Ro: Anderson Aldn
Thomas Sands ) Appraisers
Henry P. Guthrie )
Ro: Anderson Special Agent

(Exhibit D filed with the bill)

The Heirs of Ebenezer Ewing decd.
To the Mutual Assurance Society against fire
on buildings of of [sic] the State of Virginia---Dr

Whole principal and Interest due on the is April 1828 of which the sum of $56.93 is principal & will carry Interest from that time till paid

I, James Rawlings, principal Agent of the Mutual Assurance Society against fire on buildings of the State of Virginia, do hereby certify, that the above account is truly copied from the Records of the said Society

In Testimony whereof, I do hereunto subscribe my name and affix the seal of the said Society at their General Office in the City of Richmond this 8th day of May 1878
James Rawlings

Richard Bassett Assee of Heirs of Ebenezer Ewing decd
To the Mutual Assurance Society against fire on buildings of the State of Virginia

Pay the above to the Order
of Robert McCandlish
I. Rutherford
P. Agt M. A. Society

In Williamsburg Hustings Court November 30th 1839

The Mutual Assurance Society against fire on )
buildings of the State of Virginia Plts: )
against ) In Chancery
Richard Bassett ------------------ Defs. )

This cause came on this day by consent of parties on the bill answer and exhibits filed and was argued by counsel: on consideration whereof the Court doth adjudge order and decree that George W. McCandlish be and he is hereby appointed a Special Commissioner who is directed to sell the buildings in the bill and proceedings mentioned at public sale for Cash before the Courthouse door of the City of Williamsburg on some Court-day having first given Twenty days previous notice of the time and place of sale and that he convey the same to the purchaser and out of the proceeds of the sale that he pay to the plaintiffs the sum of one hundred and sixty seven dollars and eighty six cents with interest on eighty eight dollars and sixty one cents part thereof from the first day of November 1839 till paid and the Costs of this suit and the residue pay to the said Richard Bassett and that he report his proceedings to this Court - in order to a final decree.

A Copy
Teste
Wm M Moody C. H. C.

Pursuant to the within decree, I sold the within buildings and Richard Bassett became the purchaser at one hundred and ninety six dollars and 75 Cents who paid the money and to whom I gave a deed

The money I paid over to the Plts: Attos: deducting my fees. All of which is duly reported this 25th day of March 1840
Geo. W. McCandlish Conv

Whereas the Hustings Court of Williamsburg in a suit therein depending between the Mutual Assurance Society against fire on buildings of the State of Virginia Plaintiffs against Richard Bassett defendent, directed that George W. McCandlish Sergeant of Williamsburg should sell the buildings on the lot in the bill mentioned on which the deft. resides and whereas the said George W. McCandlish hath duly advertised the said buildings to be sold under the said Decree at which sale Richard Bassett became the purchaser at the price of one hundred and ninety six dollars and seventy five cents ---

NOW this deed made this 23rd day of December in the year 1839 between the said George W. McCandlish Sergt. & Conv aforesaid of the first part and the said Richard Bassett of the second part Witnesseth that the said George W. McCandlish Sergt & Convr aforesaid for and in consideration of the sum of one hundred and ninety six dollars and seventy five cents to him in hand paid at or before the ensealing and delivery of these presents the receipt whereof is hereby admitted hath granted bargained sold, aliened and confirmed and by these presents doth grant, bargain sell alien and confirm to the said Richard Bassett the houses and buildings on the lot in the said City now occupied by the said Richard Bassett on Frances Street between the lots of William M. Moody and the brick tenement of Scervant Jones. To Have and to Hold the said houses and buildings to the said Richard Bassett his heirs assigns forever, according to the law rules and regulations of the said Mutual Assurance Society and the law of the land in relation thereto. Witness my hand and seal the day and year aforesaid.

Witness
Geo W McCandlish Conv (Seal)

In Williamsburg Hustings Court Clerk's office Feb: 12th 1840

This day the foregoing deed was acknowledged in the Clerk's office aforesaid by George W McCandlish as Conv. &c to be his act and deed and admitted to record.

Teste
Wm M. Moody C H C

In Williamsburg Hustings Court March 25th 1840

This cause came on this day to be again heard on the papers formerly read, together with the report of sale to -42- which no exceptions hath been taken and was argued by Counsel on consideration whereof the Court confirming the said report doth adjudge order and decree that the same be established between the parties and the object of this suit being obtained, it is ordered to be stricken from the docket

Copy Teste
Wm M Moody C.H.C.

I do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true record of all the papers in the case of the Mutual Assurance Society vs Richd Bassett in the Hustings Court of Williamsburg

Teste
Wm M Moody, C. H. C.

[1840]
( Revaluation of Building formerly declared for
NO. 11122 ( Assurance by Ebenezer Ewings heirs per Declaration
( No. 11,004

I the underwritten Richard Bassett residing at Williamsburg in the county of James City do hereby declare for Assurance in the MUTUAL ASSURANCE SOCIETY against Fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia, my building on Francis Street in Williamsburg now occupied by myself situated between the lot of William M. Moody on the West and Richard Graves on the East - Francis Street on the North in the county of James City, the dimensions, situation and contiguity to other buildings or wharves, what the walls are built of, and what the building is covered with, are specified in the hereunto annexed description of the said building on the plat signed by me and the appraisers, and is valued by them, as appears by their certificate hereunder, to wit:

I do hereby declare and affirm, that I hold the above mentioned building with the land on which it stands in fee simple and that it is not, nor shall be insured elsewhere, and that I and my heirs and assigns will abide by, observe and adhere to the constitution, rules and regulations, which are already established, or may hereafter be established by a majority of the insured, present in person, or by representatives, or by a majority of the property insured, represented either by the persons themselves, or their proxy duly authorised, or their deputy, as established by law, at any general meeting to be held by the said Assurance Society; or which are, or hereafter may be established by the Standing Committee of the Society. WITNESS my hand and seal this first day of June 1840
Rich Bassett (Seal)

Teste,
Ro: Anderson Special Agent.

We, the underwritten, being each of us freeholders, declare and affirm, that we have examined the above-mentioned building of Richard Bassett and we are of opinion that it would cost in cash one thousand five hundred dollars dollars [sic] to build the same, and that NOW, (after the deduction of Seven hundred and fifty dollars,) it is actually worth Seven hundred and fifty dollars in ready money, as above specified to the best of our knowledge and belief. As witness our hands.

Jno M. Maupin ) Residing in
Wm H Lee ) Wmsburg

I, the undersigned, do hereby certify that )
I verily believe the building herein )
described is not over-valued. )

Ro: Anderson SPECIAL AGENT

M-34 Williamsburg City Petitions 1776 ff James City County Petitions

No 6 WmBurgh City

The petition of
Richard Bassett
asking the Commonwealth
to release her right - if any
she has, to a small lot of
ground in the City of
Wmsburg to him and his heirs

Committee proposition
and grievances

Presented by Jno M. Gregory

Decr 3d 1840
refd to Props.
Decr 8th Reasonable & to
Report by Bill
10th Bill Reported

To the Honbl. the Speaker and members of the Legislature of Virginia

The petition of Richard Bassett of Wmsburg Sheweth, that many years ago a man by the name of Ewing, (a foreigner) is said to have owned a small lot with a house on it in the City of Williamsburg, that this lot had been in the possession of different persons who claimed the property, and who passed it regularly to whoever they pleased, that your petioner [sic] purchased the property from the person whom he found in possession thinking at the time that he was buying a good title that soon after his purchase the "Mutual assurance society" set up a claim to the buildings on the said lot for quotas alleged to be due and owing, your petioner being a poor man was unable to pay the amount due said company and they by their proper agent --- instituted a suit in the Hustings Court of Williamsburg against your petioner and obtained a decree for the sale of the buildings afsd the said buildings were sold by a commissioner appointed for that purpose and your petioner became the purchaser at that sale reference to copies of the proceedings in the suit of the "Mutual assurance society" against your petitioner herewith filed is respectfully asked. Your petioner after this last purchase thought that he had certainly obtained a clear title to the property. Your petioner will state that he is a mechanic, very little acquainted with anything connected with legal means of acquiring title to property. That since his last purchase of the property he has been told that as Ewing was a foreigner & probable dead and had no heir in this country or any other, that the land had probably escheated to the Commonwealth the lot is small, not more than a quater [sic] of an acre and if the buildings were off, would not bring fifty dollars, and in order to avoid all manner of difficulty your petioner has been advised to ask your honourable body to release to him and his heirs the commonwealths right if any she has to the lot afsd

If this lot were to be adjudged escheated and sold for the benefit of the commonwealth it would after paying the necessary expenses of the sale yield a very small amount to the State, but even that small amount would be seriously felt by your petioner if he had again to buy the lot, and if your petioner should not be able to buy the lot again he would be compelled either to sell his buildings -47- to whoever might buy or remove them off either of which your petioner is unwilling to do. Your petioner therefore prays that the legislature will pass such a law as will effectually vest in him any right which she may have in the lot aforesaid, your petioner will state that he does not believe that their is one cent of taxes in arrear and unpaid to the commonwealth but that the same has been regularly and punctually paid to the commonwealth officers. And your petioner as in duty bound will ever pray &c

Richard Bassett

[1846]
) Revaluation of Building declared for Assurance
No. 14377 ) by Richard Bassett as per Declaration No. 11122

We, the underwritten, Robert Anderson Special Agent, and John M. Maupin and Goodrich Durfey Appraisers, do hereby certify that we have viewed and revalued the Building heretofore declared for Assurance, in the MUTUAL ASSURANCE SOCIETY against Fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia, by Richard Bassett as per his Declaration for Assurance, Numbered 11122

That the said Building is at present owned by Richard Bassett residing at Richmond and is occupied by G. P. Doughtry That it is situated on the South side of Francis Street in Williamsburg between the lots of D. S. Cowles on the West and Richard H. Graves on the East in the County of : We further certify, that its dimensions, situation and contiguity to other Buildings or Wharves, what the walls are built of, and what the Building is covered with, are specified in the hereunto annexed description of the said Building on the plat signed by us: And we, the undersigned Appraisers, have valued the said Building, and certify its actual value to be, as expressed in our certificate hereunder, to wit:

WITNESS our hands, this third day of October one thousand eight hundred and forty six

Ro: Anderson Special Agent for the M.A. Society
G. Durfey Appraiser, residing in Wmsburg
Jno M. Maupin Appraiser, residing in Wmsburg

We, the underwritten, being each of us freeholders, declare and affirm, that we have examined the above mentioned Building of Richard Bassett and we are of opinion that having regard to its local situation, state of repair, and the present cost of building, it is now actually worth Eight hundred dollars in ready money, as above specified, to the best of our knowledge and belief.

As witness our hands,

G. Durfey

Jno M. Maupin

I, the undersigned, do hereby )
certify, that I verily believe )
the Building herein described )
is not over-valued

[1853]
) Revaluation of Building declared for Assurance
NO. 17622 ) by Richard Bassett as per Declaration No. 14377

We, the underwritten Robert Anderson Special Agent, and John A. Deneufville and William S. Peachy Appraisers, do hereby certify that we have viewed and revalued the Building heretofore declared for Assurance, in the MUTUAL ASSURANCE SOCIETY against Fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia, by Richard Bassett as per his Declaration for Assurance, Numbered 14377

That the said Building is at present owned by Richard Bassetts heirs residing at James City and is occupied by Lucy Bryan and Sarah Presson That it is situated on Frances Street in Williamsburg on the North the lot of David S. Cowles on the west, and Richard H. Graves on the East in the County of We further certify, that its dimensions, situation and contiguity to other Buildings or Wharves, what the walls are built of, and what the Building is covered with, are specified in the hereunto annexed description of the said Building on the plat signed by us: And we, the undersigned Appraisers, have valued the said Building, and certify its actual value to be, as expressed in our certificate hereunder, to wit:

WITNESS our hands, this 24th day of one thousand eight hundred and fifty three

Ro: Anderson Special Agent for the M.A. Society
Wm S. Peachy Appraiser, residing in Wmsburg
Jno A. Deneufville Appraiser, residing in Wmsburg

We, the underwritten, being each of us freeholders, declare and affirm, that we have examined the above-mentioned Building of Richard Bassetts heirs and we are of opinion that having regard to its local situation, state of repair, and the present cost of building, it is now actually worth one thousand dollars in ready money, as above specified, to the best of our knowledge and belief.

As witness our hands.

I, the undersigned, do hereby )
certify that I verily believe )
the Building herein described )
is not over-valued. )

Ro: Anderson SPECIAL AGENT.

[1860] ) Revaluation of Building formerly declared for
No. 21325 ) Assurance by Richard Bassett's heirs per
) Declaration No. 17622

I the underwritten John F. Daugherty residing at Williamsburg in the county of James City do hereby declare for Assurance in the Mutual Assurance Society against Fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia, my Building on the South side of Frances Street now occupied by myself situated between the property of David S. Cowles on the West and that of R. H. Graves on the East, in the said City of Williamsburg and in the county of James City the dimensions, situation and contiguity to other Buildings or Wharves, what the walls are built of, and what the Building is covered with, are truly specified on the annexed plat of the said building valued by the appraisers, as appears by their certificate hereto attached, to wit:

I do hereby declare and affirm, that I hold the abovementioned Building with the land on which it stands in fee simple and that it is not, nor shall be insured elsewhere, and that I and my heirs and assigns will abide by, observe and adhere to the constitution, rules and regulations, which are already established, or may hereafter be established by a majority of the insured, present in person, or by representatives, or by a majority of the property insured, represented either by the persons themselves, or their proxy duly authorized, or their deputy, as established by law, at any general meeting to be held by the said -53- Assurance Society; or which are, or hereafter may be established by the Standing Committee of the Society.
WITNESS hand and seal this day of 1860

Teste, SEAL
SEAL
SPECIAL AGENT. SEAL

Illustration #4

N.B. This Account being, thro mistake charged to ye Copartnership of Messrs Ewing & Furguson - it was necessary to erace such Charges as were made to Mr Furgusson

The building ye Chimney & lathing & plastering ye
House & underpining the
same, was agreed to be done
for £40.0.-. finding materials
& other requisites.- There-
fore when ye acct was examined
I found an overcharge of £2.14.- by
mistake - which will arise from
subtracting ye product of £1.4.-
& £4.11.9 from £48.9.9--rather
than enter into litigation or
Testimony, I admitted ye
deduction.

[NOTE: On June 13 and 20th, bricks @ 3/.,
on June 16, 21, July 13 and 21 bricks
30/., and on August 22 bricks @ 7/6.]

Illustration #5
GALT-BARRAUD APOTHECARY ACCT & DAY BOOK
(M-1071, CWI)

[Galt or Barraud attended]