Block 2, Lots 251-252 Historical Report, Block 2 Lot 251-252Originally entitled: "Lots 251-252, Francis Street, Block 2"
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Library Research Report Series - 1048
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
Library
Williamsburg, Virginia
1990
Original and one in Mrs. Goodwin's Office
1st carbon - Architecture Department
2nd carbon - Interpretation
LOTS 251-252
Francis Street
Block 2
Deed of Philip Ludwell Grymes to James Hubard
This Indenture made the first day of November In the year of our Lord One thousand seven hundred and seventy four. Between Philip Ludwell Grymes Esqr. of Brandon in the County of Middlesex and Judith his Wife of the one part, and James Hubard of the City of Williamsburg of the other part. Witnesseth that the said Philip Ludwell Grymes Esqr. and Judith his Wife for and in consideration of the sum of six hundred pounds Current money of Virginia to him in hand by the said James Hubard at or before the ensealing and delivery of these presents, the receipt whereof he doth hereby acknowledge, and thereof doth acquit the said James Hubard his Executors and Administrator, have and each of them hath granted, bargained, sold, aliened, released and Confirmed and by these presents do grant, bargain, sell, alien, release and Confirm unto the said James Hubard his heirs and assigns forever, all that Messuage or Brick dwelling House situate on the South side of Francis Street in the City of Williamsburg, also three Lots of land on which or one of them the said dwelling House standeth and which said Lots of Land are discribed in the plan of the said City by the figures 252. 801. and 253 and all houses outhouses buildings on the said Lots, or on either of them now standing or being and a seat or pew in the South Gallery of the Church of Bruton in the said City usually occupied by the family of the said Philip Ludwell Grymes Esqr. together with all Commodities, emoluments, profits and appurtenances whatsoever to the said granted Messuages and Lots of Land belonging or in any wise appertaining or therewith usually occupied, used, or enjoyed, or accepted reputed taken or known to be part or parcel thereof, and also all that tract or parcel of Land, situate lying and adjoining to the South of the three above granted Lots which was lately the Property of Philip Johnson, and bounded on the West by the lots of Richard Adams, and William Acrill Esqures, on the East by the lot of Benjamin Harrison Esqr., and on the South by the Street Laid off by the said Johnson, with all Houses thereon and also the reversion and reversions, remainder and remainders, rents and Services of the said premises, and of all and every part thereof with all the estate right, title, Interest, Claim and demand whatsoever of him the said Philip Ludwell Grymes and Judith his Wife, of in and to the said Messuage page 2 dwelling house and premeses and every part and parcel thereof. To have and to hold the said Messuage and dwelling House and all and singular the said Lots and premeses above mentioned and every part and parcel thereof with all the appurtenances unto the said James Hubard his heirs and assigns to the only proper use and behoof of him the said James Hubard his heirs and assigns forever. And the said Philip Ludwell Grymes for him and his heirs the said Messuage or dwelling House and premeses, and every part thereof, against him and his heirs, and against all and every other person and persons whatsoever to the said James Hubard his heirs and assigns, shall and will warrant and forever defend by these presents. And the said Philip Ludwell Grymes for himself and his heirs doth Covenant and agree with the said James Hubard his heirs and assigns that he will sign seal and execute any other Instrument of writing for the further Conveying and assuring the said Messuage or dwelling House and all the premises hereby granted unto the said James Hubard his heirs and assigns as he shall be desired for that purpose. And the said James Hubard doth covenant and agree for himself and his heirs and assigns to and with the said Philip Ludwell Grymes that he and his said Wife shall have free Liberty and permission to sit and use the seat or pew hereby granted to the said James Hubard in the Church of Bruton. In Witness whereof the parties to these presents, have subscribed their hands and affixed their Seals, the day and year above written.
Philip L Grymes SL
Judith Grymes SL
Sealed and delivered
in presence of
Thos. Nelson Junr., J. Ambler
Wm Rynolds, Thos. Everard
George the third by the Grace of God of Great Britain France and Ireland King defender of the Faith &c. To Thomas Nelson Junr. Jacquelin Ambler and William Rynolds Gent. Greeting. Whereas Philip Ludwell Grymes and Judith his Wife by their certain Indenture of bargain and sale bearing date the first day of November 1774 have sold and conveyed unto James Hubard the fee simple estate of five Lots of Land with the appurtenances, lying and being in the City of Williamsburg in the County of James City of which said Lots three are discribed in the plan of the said City of Williamsburg by the figures 252. 801 and 253, and whereas the said Judith cannot conveniently travel to our General Court of this Dominion to make acknowledgement of the said conveyance Therefore we do give unto you or any
page 3
two or more of you power to receive the acknowledgement which the said Judith shall be willing to make before you of the conveyance aforesaid, contained in the said Indenture which is hereunto annexed, and we do therefore Command you that you do personally go the the said Judith and receive her acknowledgement of the same and examine her privily and apart from the said Philip her husband whether she doth the same freely and voluntarily without his persuasions or threats and whether she be willing that the same should be recorded in our said General Court and when you have received her acknowledgement and examined her as aforesaid that you distinctly and openly Certify us thereof in our said General Court under your Seals sending then there the said Indenture and this Writ. Witness John Earl of Dunmore our Lieutenant and Governor General at Williamsburg
the first day of November in the fifteenth year of our Reign.
Ben. Waller
By Virtue of this Writ. We did go to the within named Judith and examined her privily and apart from Philip Ludwell Grymes her husband, and before us she acknowledged the Indenture annexed to be her act and deed and declared she did the same freely and voluntarily without the persuasions or threats of her husband and that she was willing the same should be recorded in the General Court. Certified under our hands and seals this 4th. day of February 1775.
Thos. Nelson Junr. SL
J. Ambler SL
Virginia to wit At a General Court held at the Capitol the 17th. day of April 1775. This Indenture was proved by the Oaths of Thomas Nelson Junr. William Rynolds and Thomas Everard Witnesses thereto, and together with the commission annexed, and the certificate of the execution thereof, Ordered to be recorded.
Teste
Ben. Waller C.G.C.
A Copy Teste
Peyton Drew C.G.C.
[endorsed]
1775 Book 29, page 637
Grymes & Wife
to
Copy Deed
Hubard
| Fee per deed | 1.57 |
| " Commn | 52 |
| $ 2.09 |
Mr. & Mrs Grymes were well known residents of Middlesex and Genl. Thos. Nelson & Mr. Ambler inhabitants of York and magistrates of York County
Swann
vs
Seldon
Extd. by deft.
W. C. Seldon
Octo: 11: 1830
Loose Papers, Fredericksburg District Court.
submitted by
George H. S. King
1303 Prince Edward Street
Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401
11 August 1967
Colonial Lots 251-252-253 Block 2
South side Francis Street
These lots were in the James City County part of Williamsburg. Court Records covering this property were destroyed during the Civil War period which adds to the difficulty in establishing titles or ownerships.
Research has discovered no deeds or documentary data which would indicate ownership of those lots prior to c. 1782.
From available source materials we know that lots 251 and 252 were owned by the estate of James Hubard from 1782, or before, to 1810 when Benjamin Bucktrout became the owner. In 1797 while Mrs. Frances Hubbard, widow of James Hubbard, was living on these lots her dwelling burned. This dwelling was probably the one discovered by archaeological excavations in 1941. The western half of these foundations is on Colonial Williamsburg property, and the eastern half is on privately owned property which has never been investigated archaeologically.
Colonial Lot 253 was probably owned by the estate of James Hubbard from 1782, or before, to 1796 when it appears that Benjamin Bucktrout became the owner, and if this reasoning is correct, was sold to Richard Randolph in 1798. By 1801 it appears that Benjamin Bucktrout was again the owner.
Benjamin Bucktrout and his descendants owned these three lots from 1810 until 1898. (No research has been made beyond this date.)
The Hubbard house with outbuildings and gardens are shown on maps drawn during the Revolutionary War period. Later plats of the city show that lots 251 and 252 were owned by Hubbard and lot 253 was owned by Bucktrout.
From recollections of several older citizens of Williamsburg it appears that in the latter part of the 19th century there were several small buildings on these lots. These buildings could have been either 18th or 19th century, and it is possible that some of these buildings could have been incorporated into some of the existing buildings. The only way to determine this is by careful investigation of the existing buildings.
Research studies and archaeological investigations should be completed in order to determine the numbers and extent of 18th century buildings on these lots.
M. A. S. and P. B.
18 August 1964
LOTS 251-252
Francis Street
Block 2
LOCATION:
These lots are located on the south side of Francis Street near the Capitol. See: Tyler's adaptation of the College Map (1791?).
IN SUMMARY:
The first known owner of these lots was Mrs. Frances Hubard or her husband, James Hubard (dead 1782). Little is known about this area of Williamsburg as the court records were destroyed during the Civil War. Mrs. Hubard and her seven children lived here until the house was burned in 1797. In 1810 the lots were sold to Benjamin Bucktrout, cabinet maker, who held lots 253-254 at this date. Bucktrout died in 1813 but the property was devised to his wife, Mary Bruce Bucktrout, who owned it until her death in 1834. Richard M. Bucktrout became owner following his mother's death. The property has been in the Bucktrout family or heirs from 1810 to the present time.
The Frenchman's Map (1782) shows two small houses, apparently, at this location. The College Map (1791?) and the Bucktrout Map (1803) both show the numbers, 251 & 252 and "Hubard" on the lots.
PHOTSTAT
COPY OF THE WILLIAMSBURG PLAT IN "WILLIAMSBURG, THE OLD COLONIAL
CAPITOL" BY LYON G. TYLER
LOTS 251-252
Francis Street
Block 2
LOCATION:
The two lots marked "Hubard" on Tyler's adaptation of the College Map (1791?) are situated on the south side of Francis Street in Williamsburg. See: plat opposite.
HISTORY:
As court records of the James City county part of Williamsburg were largely destroyed by fire during the Civil War, a clear title to many lots in this area is difficult if not impossible.
It is known that a Mrs. Frances Hubard's dwelling house was burned in 1797 on the location of the above lots. (To follow chronologically in the report.)
Mrs. Frances Hubard was the widow of James Hubard,1 lawyer, who owned several lots with houses thereon in the neighborhood of "Green Hill".2 Early in May, 1782 Hubard, who had been a loyalist from ca. 1776, fled to New York on board the Bonette Sloop of War in a very low state of health. For some months he had been in prison, then at Yorktown under Cornwallis. He left behind his wife and seven children.3
2We assume that Mrs. Hubard continued to live in the "Green Hill" part of the city, which lies north of Duke of Gloucester Street in York County. In March, 1782 a continental soldier from Connecticut who was stationed in Williamsburg, wrote his wife: "At present I have diet at a Mrs Hubard's, whose Husband is in New York -- I expect a Room & Bed there, after this Evening for our Mr Hubbard & self -- Since I came we have been obliged to sleep together in the office on a Matrass on the Floor."1 In May, 1782 John Blair wrote to Governor Harrison concerning Mrs. Hubard: "In behalf of the widow of Mr James Hubard, who had been allowed without proper authority to leave Wmsburg for New York to see her dying husband, but who now desires to return, altho' she had promised not to do so." [Asks that she be allowed to return.]2
Evidently, Mrs. Hubard, widow, returned to Williamsburg, for on July 16, 1782 she sold her lots to Joseph Prentis "in the neighborhood of James Wray and James Carter which said lots were purchased of Richard Bland & Robert Beverley and recorded in the General Court on November 4, 1762."3 At this date, Williamsburg Land tax records list James Hubard's Estate with "8½ lots valued for tax purposes at£8.10.-."4 As Hubard's Estate continued to hold 8½ lots through 1786, it looks as though the transaction was a mortgage. It is quite confusing to figure out James Hubard's lot-holdings from the Land Tax records. In 1787-1797 his estate is listed with 3 18 lots -- this number continues until 1803 when 10 lots are given. In 1806 there are only 9 lots listed; in 1807 only 6 lots. In 1810 Benjamin Bucktrout gained possession of "6 lots via Hubard -- valuation $30."1 Bucktrout already owned Lots 253-254. (See House History of lots.)
Definitely, we know that the 6 lots conveyed by Hubard to Bucktrout as above cited, were the lots on Francis Street numbered "251 & 252" along with some to the south also numbered "Hubard."2
To return to the year 1797 when Mrs. Hubard's house was burned; a newspaper account follows:
WILLIAMSBURG, April 5.
Yesterday between 4 and 5 o'clock in the afternoon, a Fire broke out in the dwelling house of Mrs. FRANCES HUBARD of this town, which in a little time was entirely consumed: Fortunately however, most of the furniture was saved; though not without sustaining considerable injury. The situation of this unfortunate lady, who has not so much as a comfortable dwelling left her, must be sincerely lamented by all who compassionate the unfortunate and sympathize with the distressed. Never did the voice of humanity cry aloud for the relief of the distressed more than on the present occasion. Such were the feelings of those who beheld the melancholy spectacle, who saw an unfortunate woman, the mother of many children, deprived of her only security against the inclemencies of the weather, that a subscription was instantly handed about to alleviate her misfortune. But alaw! the loss was too great to be easily repaired. It is however much to be wished, that all who feel for the misfortunes of others, but particularly those who, either from connexion or subsisting intimacy, are concerned for the welfare of the unfortunate Mrs. Hubard, will, without hesitation contribute to her relief. A more worthy occasion never urged a compliance with the duties of humanity.
The Printer is most earnestly requested to receive all Contributions which may be made for the relief of Mrs. HUBARD, and to convey them safely to the Rev'd. John Bracken of Williamsburg.3
Mrs. Ann Banister who was visiting in Williamsburg wrote to Mrs. 4 Mary Prescott on April 6th concerning the fire at Mrs. Hubard's:
April 6th 1797
…
I have this moment return'd my dear Sister, from a melancholly visit to the unfortunate Mrs Hubard! who to add to all her woes - had her house yesterday afternoon consumed by fire --- her furniture saved from the flames, but broken to peices; Fanny was to have been married to day to a Mr Sinclair -- but she is ill at Mrs Hunts -- quite delirious I am told -- part of the few cloaths they possessed stolen, of burnt - but the worthy inhabitants ... have already subscribed for their relief 600 dollars -- and it is intended the Ladies are to make a collection of necessary apparel for them...1
On April 30th, Mrs. Peachy Wills of Williamsburg wrote to Mrs. John Coalter, Staunton, relating the city gossip. She noted Mrs. Hubard's fire thus:
[April 30, 1797]
…an abundence of occurrences have pas'd since my last, such as yes fire, of Mrs Hubbards house & how much benefit has arisen to her from so shocking a circumstance, for instance the facilitating her Daughters Marriage, which I have understood was not to have taken place so soon, and so large a subscription made up in a few days as to raise her spirits to great Joy and comfort beside the addition of [illegible] many unknown behests arriving to her hand from nameless persons, so that upon the whole, what seem'd a great misfortune, has turn'd out a great benefit…2
Unfortunately, we cannot establish the exact date at which Mrs. Hubard removed from the "Green Hill" area of the city to the Francis Street property. It was probably in the summer of 1782. Nor do we know if she built the house on Francis Street new or moved into a dwelling already there.
The Frenchman's Map of Williamsburg (1782) shows two small houses, apparently, at this location.3 This area has not been excavated except for 5 a small part. (Sees Bullock report to follow.)
The Bucktrout Map (1803)1 shows no houses on Lots 251 or 252 but has numbers and "Hubard" thereon. Tyler's adaptation of the College Map (1791?) has the same marks.
From 1810 to 1813 Benjamin Bucktrout, cabinet-maker, was owner of Lots 251, 252, 253 and 254.2 (For biographical data on Bucktrout, see: "Chiswell-Bucktrout House History," Research Department.)
In 1810 Williamsburg Land Tax records indicate that Benjamin Bucktrout gained "6 lots, valued at $30 via Hubard."
By 1814 Bucktrout was dead. His widow, Mary Bucktrout, became owner by devise. She owned, also, additional lots towards the south.3
By the death of Mrs. Bucktrout in 1834, her son, Richard M. Bucktrout,4 carpenter and coffin-maker and undertaker, acquired the property. The lots were valued at $600 with lots and buildings at $975.5 Bucktrout or his heirs owned the property from 1834 up to the present time.
According to a report of Orin M. Bullock, Architectural Research Office, of date December 19, 1958, "Report on Colonial Lots 251-252-253" under "Specific Information Available," there are these accounts:
"Lot 251 The Foster Gift Shop
Starting under the southwest corner of the existing modern building, about 40' south of the Francis Street building line, and running west onto the Chiswell site, lie the foundations of an 18th century brick building (Hubbard House) approximately 23' x 64'. (See Exhibit VIII.) The portion of this building which lies on the Chiswell house site was excavated in 1941. (See Exhibit IX.) The remains indicate that the Hubbard House was 6 "in the best style of the period" (mid 18th century) since fragments of dressed stone, marble, rubbed and gauge brick were found in the filling of the brick paved basement. The records seem to indicate that the building was destroyed by fire in 1797. (See Exhibit III, Bldg 1… Near the southeast corner of the main portion of the existing Foster Gift Shop is another portion of 18th century brick foundation. (See Exhibit VIII) …Mrs. Haughwout recalled that the first Methodist Church, which was "hardly more than a shack" stood on this lot when she was a child. (c. 1860)
Lot 252 The Homeplace
Mrs. Haughwout recalled that the existing building on this lot was originally a small story and one-half structure. Because it was so small, they [the Braithwaite family] used the kitchen on the lot next door (to the east). The well was southwest of the house, Mrs. Haughwout said.The Misses Morecock recalled that east of the Chiswell house there were numerous buildings. "The building now owned by Mrs. Haughwout was changed many times and that at one time some of the material of the small building to the east, mentioned by Mr. Charles as owned and lived in by Mr. Dick Braithwaite was incorporated in it.
Using the same reference point on the Frenchman's map as suggested above, this also could be one of the buildings shown thereon."1
The property is now owned by the heirs of Benjamin Bucktrout via Mrs. Haughwout.
Footnotes
Illustration #1
Foundations Uncovered by Archaeological Excavation, July 1931.
Bucktrout Map 1803
Illustration #2
| 1783 | --[no property listed] | ||
| 1786 | --Ibid. | ||
| 1794 | --Benjamin Bucktrout | 1 slave | |
| 1795 | --Benjamin Bucktrout | [no personal property listed] | |
| 1796 | --Benjamin Bucktrout | [no personal property listed] | |
| 1797 | --Benjamin Bucktrout | 1 slave | 1 horse |
| 1798 | --Benjamin Bucktrout | 1 slave | 1 horse |
| 1799 | --Benjamin Bucktrout | 1 slave | 2 horses |
| 1800 | --Benjamin Bucktrout | 1 slave | 3 horses |
| 1801 | --Benjamin Bucktrout | 1 horse | |
| 1802 | --Benjamin Bucktrout | 1 slave | 1 horse |
| 1803 | --Benjamin Bucktrout | 1 slave | 1 horse |
| 1804 | --Benjamin Bucktrout | 2 slaves | 1 horse |
| 1806 | --[no Bucktrout] | ||
| 1807-8 | [no Bucktrout] | ||
| 1810 | --Benjamin Bucktrout | 1 slave | |
| 1811 | --Benjamin Bucktrout | 1 slave | |
| 1812 | --Benjamin Bucktrout | 1 slave | |
| 1813 | --Mary Bucktrout | 1 slave | |
| 1814 | --Mary Bucktrout | 2 slaves | |
| 1815 | --Mary Bucktrout | 2 slaves | 3 cattle |
| 1816 | --Mary Bucktrout | 2 slaves | |
| 1818 | --Mary Bucktrout | 2 slaves | |
| 1819-1824 | [no Bucktrouts listed] | ||
| 1830 | -Richard M. Bucktrout | 2 slaves | 2 horses |
| 1835 | --Rich: M. Bucktrout | 2 slaves | 2 horses |
| 1836 | --Rich: M. Bucktrout | 5 slaves | 2 horses |
| 1838 | --Richard M. Bucktrout | 4 slaves | 3 horses |
[See: Williamsburg Personal Property Tax records for personal property of R. M. Bucktrout and heirs to 1861]
| 1782 | James Hubard's Estate | 8½ lots | £ 8.10. |
| 1783-1786 | James Hubard's Est | 8½ lots | 12.15 |
| 1786 | James Hubard's Est | 8½ lots | 12.15 |
| 1787-1797 | Jas Hubard's est | 18 lot | 12 |
| 1798-1801 | Jas Hubard's est | 18 lots | $15 |
| 1802 | James Hubard's est | 18 lots | $15 |
| 1803 | James Hubard's est | 10 lots | $ 5 |
| 1804 | James Hubard's Est | 10 lots | $ 5 |
| 1805 | James Hubard's Est | 9 lots | $ 5 |
| 1806 | James Hubard's Est | 9 lots | $ 5 |
| 1807 | James Hubard's Est | 6 lots | $30 |
| 1809 | James Hubard's Est | 6 lots | $30 |
| 1810 | Benjamin Bucktrout via Hubard | 6 lots | $30 |
| 1811 | Benjamin Bucktrout | 8¼ lots | $80* |
[See: Illustration #2, Lots 253-254, for land tax from 1811-1861]
| > 1783 | > Frances Hubard (Morton Hubard)1 | > 13 slaves, 4 horses, 3 cattle |
| > 1788 | > Frances Hubard | > 5 slaves over 12, 1 horse |
| > 1789 | > Frances Hubard | > 5 slaves over 12, |
| > 1790 | > Frances Hubard | > 5 slaves over 12, |
| > 1791 | > Frances Hubard | > 4 slaves |
| > 1792 | > Frances Hubard | > 3 slaves, |
| > 1793 | > Frances Hubard | > 3 slaves, |
| > 1794 | > Frances Hubard | > 2 slaves, |
| > 1795 | > Fraces Hubard | > 2 slaves, |
| > 1796 | > Frances Hubard | > 2 slaves, |
| > 1797 | > Frances Hubard | > 3 slaves, |
| > 1798 | > Frances Hubard | > 2 slaves, |
| > 1799 | > Frances Hubard | > 3 slaves, |
Illustration #3
BENJAMIN BUCKTROUT
Benjamin Bucktrout,1 cabinet maker, came to Williamsburg from London in 1766, and opened a shop on Duke of Gloucester Street, near the Capitol. He first gave notice of this fact in the Virginia Gazette for July 25, 1766:
"B. BUCKTROUT, CABINET MAKER, from LONDON, on the main street near the Capitol in Williamsburg, makes all sorts of cabinet work, either plain or ornamental, in the neatest and newest fashions. He hopes to give satisfaction to all Gentlemen who shall please to favour him with their commands.
"N.B. Where likewise may be had the mathematical GOUTY CHAIR."[Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds.]
In 1767, Anthony Hay, who had been a cabinet maker in Williamsburg for some years, turned over his shop and his customers to Benjamin Bucktrout. Hay purchased the Raleigh Tavern at that time, and was the successful and popular keeper of that tavern until his death in 1770. He leased his shop to Bucktrout (the shop stood on Nicholson Street, on lot #263 or #264 - both of which Hay owned), and both Hay and Bucktrout announced the change in their situations in the same issue of the Gazette:
"Williamsburg, Jan. 6, 1767
"THE Gentlemen who have bespoke WORK of the subscriber may depend upon having it made in the best manner by Mr. BENJAMIN BUCKTROUT, to whom he has given up his business. I return the Gentlemen who have favoured me with their custom many thanks, and am Their most humble servant,
ANTHONY HAY.""Williamsburg, Jan. 6, 1767
"MR. ANTHONY HAY having lately removed to the RAWLEIGH tavern, the subscriber has taken his shop, where the business will be carried on in all its branches. He hopes that those Gentlemen who were Mr. Hay's customers will favour him with their orders, which shall be executed in the best and most 2 expeditious manner. He likewise makes all sorts of Chinese and Gothick PALING for gardens and summer houses.
N.B. SPINETS and HARPSICORDS made and repaired.
BENJAMIN BUCKTROUT."[Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, January 8, 1767.]
For a time Bucktrout had a partner1 — although the first record we have found of that fact appears in an advertisement announcing the dissolution of the partnership:
"Williamsburg, March 1, 1769
"The partnership between Bucktrout and Kennedy, though not yetdissolved, will terminate as soon as the work which is already bespoke can be finished, and matters brought to a proper settlement; at which time WILLIAM KENNEDY Proposes carrying on the business of cabinet making, at the house where Mr. Pelham now lives. Any of those Gentlemen who have been customers to Bucktrout and Kennedy*, and all others who please to employ him, may rely on his best endeavours to give satisfaction.
"*He has no intention to rob Mr. Bucktrout of his old customers, nor does he think he can as yet properly call any his own.[Ibid., March 9, 1769.]
In the fall of 1769, Bucktrout advertised for "JOURNEYMEN CABINET MAKERS, who, if they understand their business, will meet with good encouragement." (Ibid., September 7, 1769.) In 1771, he offered a reward for a runaway apprentice — "an Apprentice Lad about twenty Years of Age ... and a Cabinet Maker by Trade."[Ibid., April 11, 1771.]
Bucktrout evidently moved from Anthony Hay's shop ca. 1770; for on January 3, 1771 Edmund Dickinson, also a cabinet maker, announced that he had "lately opened the Shop" formerly belonging to Mr. Anthony Hay, [Ibid., Jan. 3, 1771.] It is not known whether Bucktrout moved to the house on Francis Street, formerly the property of Col. John Chiswell, at the time, or later, His advertisements in 1774 noted that he was then on Francis Street; and in 1779 he offered for sale the house in which he lived "formerly belonging to Colonel Chiswell." It is very possible that he moved onto this property after leaving Hay's Shop, but we have found no record of his purchase of the property.
At any rate, from 1771 on, Bucktrout's business grew to include paper hanging, and the sale of a large assortment of imported merchandise.2 The 3 following advertisements indicate the range of his business for the next several years:
"May 9, 1771
"Just IMPORTED, and to be SOLD cheap for ready Money, by the Subscriber, in WILLIAMSBURG,
"A NEAT and ELEGANT ASSORTMENT of PAPER HANGINGS,
[Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, eds.]
of various Kinds, and of the newest Fashions, for Staircases, Rooms, and Ceilings; namely, embossed, stucco, Chintz, striped, Mosaick, Damask, and common - ***Rooms papered in the neatest Manner, and on reasonable Terms.
BENJAMIN BUCKTROUT."
"Sept. 17, 1771.
"To be SOLD, any Time betwixt this and October Court, for ready Money, SUNDRY fine PRINTS done by Mr. FRY, and some ELECTIONS PIECES by Hogarth, the Property of a Gentleman gone to England. They may be seen at any Time on applying to
BENJAMIN BUCKTROUT."N.B. Sundry neat PAPER HANGINGS to be Sold -----Rooms neatly papered on reasonable Terms."
[Ibid., September 17, 1771.]
"Williamsburg, July 4, 1774.
"I HAVE for Sale, for ready Money, the following Articles, viz. MATRASSES, made of best English curled Hair, without any Addition of Tow or Wool; HAIR SEATING for Chairs; BOXES of TYPES for marking Linen, Books, &c. PAPER HANGINGS, of the beat Kinds, and most fashionable Patterns. I have likewise to dispose of, the Remainder of the Time of an indented young Woman, from Ireland, who was bred up as a Spinner in one of the first Linen Manufactures in that Kingdom; and the sole Reason of my parting with her is, my not having Employ for her,
[Ibid., July 7, 1774.]
BENJAMIN BUCKTROUT."
"October 27, 1774
"Just Imported, and to be SOLD cheap for ready Money, by the Subscriber in Francis Street, Williamsburg,
[Ibid., October 27, 1774.]
"FINE Bottled Porter, Taunton Beer, Gloucester Cheese, Negro Plains, Kendal Cottons, Plain and Striped Blankets, Fine Lustrings of different Patterns, Yorkshire Cloths, Patterns for Mens Surtout Coats, with Trimmings to each, Mens fine and coarse Hats, Velvet bound Hats with Roses, Mens Boots, Womens and Childrens Leather Shoes, Mens Gloves, Womens fine French Kid Gloves, Guns, Silver mounted and plain Pistols, Saddles complete, Whips, Hair Brooms and Brushes, Wool and Playing Cards, Horn Lanthorns, Plaistering Trowels, Sets of Types for marking of Linen, Checks and Striped Holland, Pepper, Allspice, Ginger, Paper Hangings for Rooms, Best Durham Mustard, Blue and White Water Jugs, Chamber Pots, Quart and Pint Mugs, Milk Pans, Sage and Balm Tea Pots, 4 Coffin Furniture, Hair Seating for Chairs, Matrasses, Glass Salts, Vinegar Cruits, Salt, &c. &c.
BENJAMIN BUCKTROUT."
"February 4, 1775.
BENJAMIN BUCKTROUT CABINET MAKER, IN FRANCIS STREET, WILLIAMSBURG,
STILL carries on that Business in all its Branches, where Ladies and Gentlemen may be supplied with any Sort of Cabinet Work in the best and neatest Manner... I return those Ladies and Gentlemen who were pleased to favour me with their Commands my most grateful Thanks, and hope for a Continuance of their Favours, which to merit shall always be the Study of their most humble Servant.
BENJAMIN BUCKTROUT"N. B. I should be glad to take one or two Apprentices, of bright Genuises, and of good Dispositions, and such whose Friends are willing to find them Clothes."
[Ibid., Dixon & Hunter, February 4, 1775.]
In August, 1779, Bucktrout offered for sale the house which formerly belonged to Colonel Chiswell, on Francis Street, as well as some of his household furniture and furnishings, his cabinet-makers tools, and some seasoned wood for cabinet-making and building:
"To be sold betwixt this and the 27th of September, at private sale; the houses and lots where the subscriber lives, formerly belonging to Colonel Chiswell, it is very well calculated for a tavern as there is every necessary requisite, with a very good pasture joining. Also will be sold for ready money, on Wednesday the 22d of September, a variety of house hold and kitchen furniture, consisting of beds, bedding, mahogany chairs, tables, and chest of drawers, handsome looking-glasses, Queen's china plates and dished, ivory handled knives and forks, and an easy chair. Likewise two riding chairs and harness, two carts with harness for four horses, three very good milch cows, three good chair horses, two mare colts, ... a negro woman, who is an exceeding good washer and ironer; likewise will be sold a chest of cabinet makers and house joiners tools, with a quantity of very fine broad one, two, and three inch mahogany plank, which has been cut this five years, a parcel of shingles, pine and oak plank and scantling, nails of different sizes, window glass 8 by 10, and many other articles. *** All persons indebted to the subscriber are desired to settle their accounts by the last of September; and those who have accounts are desired to apply for payment. I intend leaving this state in October next.
BENJAMIN BUCKTROUT."[Ibid., Dixon and Nicolson, eds., August 28, 1779.]
During the early years of the Revolution, from ca. 1777 until 1779, Bucktrout was purveyor to the Public Hospitals. On November 19, 1778, the Council of State decided that "he ought to be allowed in the future for his Services as Purveyor and Steward to the public Hospital four Dollars & one 5 ration per diem."(Council Journals, II, 219.) Prior to that date, he had received various sums for his services. He resigned in 1779, and on March 29th of that year Thomas Russell was appointed Purveyor in his place.
We do not know whether or not Bucktrout left the state in October of 1779 — the date mentioned when he offered his house etc. for sale. He certainly gave up the house, for on the 2nd of October, 1779, William Davenport announced that he was opening Tavern "in the house formerly occupied by Col. Chiswell, and lately by BenjaminBucktrout." [Virginia Gazette, Dixon & Nicolson, eds. Oct. 2, 1779.]
He continued to own property in Williamsburg, and if he left, had returned there prior to 1784. For in that year he gave notice that he intended "for England Shortly, and shall not return until next summer."[Virginia Gazette, & Weekly Advertiser, July 17, 1784.] In 1788 he again announced that he intended to go "to England immediately."[Ibid., August 14, 1788.]
The Williamsburg Land Tax Records, which begin in 1782, list Benjamin Bucktrout as owner of¼lot in 1782. In 1812 he owned 8¼ lots. In 1813 the tax on his real estate was charged to his "Estate" — indicating that he had died between the date of the tax record in 1812 and 1813.
In 1814 his property was charged to his wife, Mary Bucktrout, as "devise." [Williamsburg, Land Tax Records, 1782-1865.]
February 8, 1951
Mary Goodwin
Mrs. Peachy Wills, an aunt of Robert Greenhow, merchant of Williamsburg, in a letter to Mrs. John Colter, Staunton, on April 30, 1797 had some gossipy remarks about old Mr. Bucktrout:
… what think you of the widdower Bucktrout, he is proving his title to both parts of his Name, pitty it was not gudgeon instead of trout as to the first part, he is turn'd out quite a beau, scarlet waistcoat and his neat wig in a stiff single curl round and mounted on good horse with a servant riding behind him on a good one also, following a chair in which the damsel was going out of Town, and this not once or twice but as often as this Miss Bruce goes to see her sister in the country, who married a young Mr Brown a grandson of old Weldons, I can but think if old Molly could make him see her looking at him how he'd Jump out of his Scarlet attire and shrink into his old greasy leather indispensibles an white cap again, it really is ridiculously laughable to see the old puppy apeing, what he never was, I mean smart cleverness, he prances after the poor girl, incessantly, people say, and 'tis supposed, she will be brought to considder that half a loaf is better than no bread, poor girl I sincerely pitty her it she is under undue influence, his other part of Name comes under that of fish which may be hooked, or [torn] netted, or Snarled, which of these traps she made use off[sic] know not, but tis certain she plays him about at her will at present, …(Typescript copy of letter supposed to be in the Tucker-Coleman Collection. Mrs. Coleman seems to think the original was at the College. Not able to locate the original letter. See: Name Data Card, Research Department.)
Bucktrout's first wife's name judging from reference above must have been Molly. If Dr. Tyler is correct, she was Mary Earnshaw, daughter of John Earnshaw, collector of the upper port of James River until his exit to England in 1775 when he became a Tory. (See: William and Mary Quarterly, series 1, vol. 5, p. 17; and Microfilm M-73 Loyalists Transcripts, CWI) Earnshaw's personal property in York county was sold for escheated property in 1779. (Virginia Gazette, June 8, 1779.)
The marriage bond between Benjamin Bucktrout and Mary Bruce is recorded in York County Marriage Bonds, microfilm, Research Department, as July 3, 1797.
JAMES HUBARD
There were two James Hubard's living in York county at the same tine and of the same generation: James Hubard, merchant and partner with Jerman Baker at one time; and James Hubard, lawyer, who qualified in Gloucester county in 1759 to practice law. This James Hubard removed to Williamsburg in 1769 where he advertised in the Virginia Gazette to practice in that city.
James Hubard, lawyer, married Frances Morton, only child of Joseph Morton and Frances Colston Morton, daughter of William Colston, prominent citizen of Richmond county.
Joseph Morton (1715?-1759) was a Yorkshire man and an immigrant to Virginia where he became a distributing agent for a group of Yorkshire horse breeders. "Traveller," imported stud and race horse, was owned by Morton from 1748-1757. He seems to have married in 1738 and a year later, he designated himself in the newspaper as of Richmond county but now living in the county of Orange. In the spring of 1752, his first wife having died, he married Elizabeth Beckwith, daughter of Sir Marmaduke Beckwith of Richmond county. Also, in 1752 Morton acquired Dr. John Dixon's plantation in James City county where he removed and served as commissioner of the Peace and Burgess 1756-1758. He died in James City county in 1759. His will on record in King George county court order book.
Children of James Hubard and Frances Morton Hubard were: Morton, member of Masonic Lodge in Williamsburg in 1778.-1781; James, born Feb. 12, 1765; Matthew, born Dec. 25, 1766; Meriwether, born Oct. 16, 176-; Frances; Elizabeth and Charlotte.
In 1762 in the settlement of James Morton's estate, lots of James Hubard in Williamsburg which he purchased of Richard Bland and Robert Beverley recorded in the general court, were noted. These lots were in the area of "Green Hill" on the north side of the city. Hubard and his family lived thereon until sometime in 1782 when he fled to New York as a loyalist. Here he died in May or June, 1782. Mrs. Hubard had gone to New York to be with her dying husband but returned to Williamsburg where she continued with her children for many years.
In 1782 Mrs. Hubard sold the lots near "Green Hill" to Joseph Prentis. She must have moved to Lots 251-252 on Francis Street. In 1797 her house was burned. Frances, her daughter, was to have been married that day to Robert St. Clair, said to have been a son of Gen. St. Clair of the Revolution. Daughter, Elizabeth, married Col. John Bowyer and lived near Lexington, Virginia.
Sources used in compiling these notes:
- William and Mary Quarterly, series 1. vol. V, pp. 106-109.
- Harrison's The Equine F.F.V's (Richmond, 1928) pp. 66-67
Joseph Morton - Hening's Statutes..at Large, vols VII, pp. 636-38; VIII, pp. 168-170
- Virginia Gazette
- York County records: Deeds 6, p. 146 (1782 Hubard to Prentis)
- Williamsburg Land Tax records
- Virginia Gazette and Weekly Advertiser, April 8, 1797.
- Public Record Office, S/D 263 A.0. 13/31 James Hubard &c. (Microfilm CWI)
- American Loyalists Calendar of Orig. Memorials, vol. 2 (Tr. by N.Y. Public Library, Microfilm M-73 CWI.)
Footnotes
Bucktrout married Mary Bruce of "the Parish of Bruton and County of York," in 1797. This was his second marriage. In 1797 Mrs. Peachy Wills spoke of him as a widower courting Miss Bruce. They had four children: Horatio, who married and lived in Norfolk; Rachael, who married Hipolite Reptan and had one child, Rachel Reptan; Richard M. Bucktrout, who married lst, Delia Higgins and had Delia and Mary Elizabeth Bucktrout, and 2nd, Celestia Lindsay, and had Horatio Bucktrout; and Benjamin Bucktrout, who married Louisanna Cosby and had four children. (Name Data File - information from Mrs. Virginia Haughwout of Williamsburg a descendant.)