Colonial Williamsburg Digital Library

LOCATION:

The property know as the "Bland-Wetherburn House" is located on the southside of Duke of Gloucester Street in Williamsburg. The lots are numbered 10 and 21 and "Rowsay" on late eighteenth and early nineteenth century plats of the city.

HISTORY (in summary):

Richard Bland was living on the property prior to 1716 when he conveyed to Nathaniel Harrison. In the conveyeance the lots were mentioned as 20 & 21 upon the south side of Duke of Gloucester Street. Upon his death Harrison bequeathed the property to his son, Benjamin. He conveyed to Henry Wetherburn, tavern keeper, in 1738. Wetherburn may have operated his tavern here from the time of its purchase. There is proof that he was there in 1742. John Doncastle must have leased Wetherburn's tavern in 1753 possibly was still there in 1755. If so, by 1757 Wetherburn was in the tavern keeping business on this property. In 1759 Wetherburn sold a part of Lot 20 to James Tarpley, merchant, but he kept the part east and bordering upon Lot 21. Wetherburn's death in 1760 gave his widow, Ann, one third part in the land and slaves during her life with the reversion to his nephew, Edward Nicholson. It looks as though Mrs. Wetherburn rented the tavern to James Southall, tavern keeper ca. 1766. Southall remained here until February, 1771, when Robert Anderson, another tavern keeper, took charge as a renter of Wetherburn's former property. Anderson's tavern was in operation until September, 1779, when Ambrose Davenport gave notice that he was taking over Anderson's tavern. By 1783 Henry Nicholson (son of Edward) had come into the property. He gave a deed to James Davis - which must have been a lease as Nicholson again conveyed in 1785 to William Rowsay. Rowsay or his heirs held the property until 1819. In 1820 Mrs. Frances Powell(who is thought to have married Benjamin Powell following Rowsay's death) held tow lots interpreted to Lots 20 and 21. In 1837 Mrs. Martha McGill, daughter of Mrs. Powell, gave a deed of trust to secure merchants in the city. By 1841 Richard Randolph was owner. In 1843 Johnson B. Carter was owner. He was followed by William Carter in 1848 and John H. Barlow from 1852-1886. R. H Jackson bought the property in 1889. In 1918 Mrs. Virginia B. Houghwout became owner.

BLAND-WETHERBURN HOUSE
Lots 20 & 21

Date	Owned By	Date	Occupied By	Profession
1716	Richard Bland		Richard Bland	"Gentleman"
1716	Nathaniel Harrison			"Gentleman"
1727	Benjamin Harrison			"Gentleman"
1738	Henry Wetherburn		Henry Wetherburn	Inn keeper
		1753	John Doncastle	Inn keeper
		1757	Henry Wetherburn	Inn keeper
1761	Ann Wetherburn
	Edward Nicholson
		1767	James Southall	Inn keeper
		1771	Robt. Anderson	Inn keeper
		1779	Ambrose Davenport	Inn keeper
1763	Henry Nicholson
1782	Henry W. Nicholson	1783	James Davis	Tailor
1785	William Rowsay		William Rowsay	Jeweler, Merchant
1787	Rowsay's heirs		Mrs. Rowsay
1819	Rowsay's heirs
1820	Mrs. Frances Powell		Mrs. Powell
1825	Mrs. Powell's heirs		Mrs. Martha McGill
1837	Mrs. Martha McGill		John A. MacKinder
1841	Richard Randolph
1843	Johnson B. Carter
1848	William Carter
1852	John H. Barlow		John H. Barlow
1860's			Rev. Young	School (female)
				Boarding House
1870	John H. Barlow
1886	Barlow's Estate		Wm. H. E. Morecock	as Residence
1889	R. H. Jackson		Wm. H. E. Morecock	as Residence
1918	Virginia B. Houghwout

Photostat Copy of the Williamsburg Plat in "Williamsburg, The Old Colonial Capitol" by Lyon G. Tyler

LOCATION:

The property known as the "Bland-Wetherburn House" is located on the south side of Duke of Gloucester Street in Williamsburg. The lots are numbered on the late eighteenth century and early nineteenth century maps of the city. Lots 20 & 21 have "Rowsay" thereon. See: Tyler's map on the opposite page.

HISTORY:

The earliest record which defines this property appears in 1716 when Richard Bland¹ conveyed the lots to Nathaniel Harrison.² (Deed to follow in the report.)

Bland was living in Williamsburg prior to 1709. On February 28th William Byrd of Westover came to Williamsburg about sunset and went straight to Mr. Bland's, then to visit the President and then "went to lie at Mr. Bland's."³ Bland was a member of the House of Burgesses representing Charles City County in December, 1700; August 1701; and May and June 1702. In 1706 he represented Prince George County in this assembly at the April session. In 1708 Bland was clerk of Prince George County. In 1710 he was a vestryman of Bruton Parish. In 1716 he was a member of the Board of Visitors of William and Mary College.

2.

During the period 1709-1712 Mr. Bland is mentioned many times in Byrd's Diary. Bland lived at Jordan's Point, Charles City County. He seems to have made many trips back and forth from Jordan's Point to Williamsburg. On practically every trip Bland would stop at Westover to consult with Byrd on business. On the other hand, when Byrd would go to Williamsburg as a member of the Council, he went first to Mr. Bland's "for breakfast," "to eat some custard," "to dine," "drank tea," &c. Throughout this period there are references to Bland attending to business (shipping, selling goods &c.) for Byrd in Williamsburg. There are two references to Mr. Bland's store there: "July 5, 1710 - … when we came to Mr. Bland's he told us my chest of linen sent to his store had been plundered before it came to him…" and "April 6, 1711- [Westover] About 11 o'clock came Mr. Bland just from Colonel Randolph's… He told me the things got well to Williamsburg for his store…" On April 5, 1710, Byrd writing from "Westover," noted: "I had abundance of discourses with Mr. Bland concerning our store a Williamsburg."

Research has not disclosed any evidence as to the location of the "store," nor any further details as to the kind of business which Bland managed for Byrd other than the references in the Diary.¹ It is possible that the store could have been located on Lots 53 & 54 conveyed to Bland in 1708 by the trustees of the city.²

The writer does not think that Prichard Bland's property in the city was used as a tavern. Careful reading of Byrd's Diary would 3. seem to indicate that Bland's home was frequented by prominent Councillors, Burgesses, and ladies closely associated with Bland or his wife, socially.

Not knowing when Bland sold Lots 53 & 54, we cannot state that Byrd's visits to Bland were made at the house now known as the Bland-Wetherburn House. Until further research brings forth new evidence, we shall have to leave his residence prior to ca. 1716 unknown. He could have lived at Lots 53 & 54, or at Lots 20 & 21 during this period.

It is possible that Richard Bland, the Revolutionary statesman and son of Richard Bland of Jordan's Point, was born in the Bland-Wetherburn House. Tyler states that Bland was born in Williamsburg on May 6, 1710.¹ The badly torn birth records of Bruton Parish register the birth of a child to Eliza Bland² in February, 1714--indicating that the Blands were members of Bruton Parish at that time also.

In 1716 Richard Bland conveyed to Nathaniel Harrison property designated as Lots 20 & 21 "on which he lately lived":

[May 23, 1716]

[Richard Bland of Prince George County
to
Colonel Nathaniel Harrison of Surry County
Consideration of £100 current money of Virginia]

THIS INDENTURE made this 23rd day of May ... 1716 between Richd Bland of Prince George County of the one part and ye Honble Coll. Nathl. Harrison of Surry County of the other part. 4. Witnesseth that the sd Richd Bland for and in the consideration of ye rents & covenants hereafter named… hath demised granted lett leased &… by these presents … the Two Lotts or half Acres of Land, in ye City of Wmsburgh on which he [Bland] lately lived upon the south Side of Duke of Gloucester Street desinged in ye Plott or draugth of ye sd City by ye Numbers or Figures (20 & 21) together with all houses … gardens … To have and to Hold ye sd Two Lotts … & appurtaneances unto ye sd Nathl Harrison his heirs and Assigns for Ever …
Richd Bland (Seal)

Signed, Sealed and Dielivered in presence of
M Ingles
Benj Weldon
ffran Tyler
Tho: Mitchell
James Shield
Jno Blair
Joseph Davenport

At a Court for York County 18th June 1716
This Deed of Release of Two Lotts or half Acres of Land in Wmsburgh from Richd Bland Gentt to Nathl Harrison Esqr was proved in Court by ye Oaths of Tho Mitchell ffrancis Tyler & Jno Blair Three of ye Witnesses thereto & admitted to Record.
Phi: Lightfoot Cl Cur¹

Nathaniel Harrison of "Wakefield," Surry County, had served as naval officer for the upper district of James river and as agent for the prize office in England prior to his accepting the position of naval officer and receiver of Virginia duties under Governor Spotswood. In January, 1713/14 Harrison by Spotswood's appointment became a councillor. The appointment was confirmed in England in 1715. He became receiver general of Virginia and deputy in Virginia for the auditor and receiver general of all the colonies. He was a regular attendant at session of the council until his death in 1727.²

Burgesses and other public officers needed homes in Williamsburg 5. when they attended sessions of the Assembly or Council. It seems reasonable to suppose that Harrison's purpose in buying Bland's home was to provide a comfortable home for his family and as a place to entertain his political and social friends while he was in the city.

At the time of his death sometime between December 15, 1726 (the date of the will) and February 21-28, 1727 (the date of its probation), Harrison owned lots in Williamsburg:

[Will of Nathaniel Harrison of Surry County]

…
Item: I devise unto my son Benjamin the two lots or one acre of land which I have lying and being in the City of Williamsburg with all houses and edifices thereon to him to him & his heirs forever. …
Nathaniel Harrison¹

Records indicate that Benjamin Harrison² held the property until 1738 when it was conveyed to Henry Wetherburn, tavern keeper, of Williamsburg. (Deed to follow in the report.) A careful reading into York County Records has disclosed nothing as to Harrison's use of the property. However, there appears an unaccountable discrepancy in the numbers given for the two lots. When Bland conveyed to Nathaniel Harrison in 1716 the two lots were designated as 20 & 21. When Benjamin Harrison conveyed to Wetherburn in 1738, the two lots were noted as 21 & 22:

[January 15, 1738]

[Benjamin Harrison of Surry County, Gent.,
to
Henry Wetherburn of Williamsburg
Consideration: £150 current money of Virginia]

6.

THIS INDENTURE made the 15th Day of Janry 1738… BETWEEN Benjamin Harrison of Surry County Gent. … and Henry Weatherburn of the City… WITNESSETH That the said Benj: Harrison for and in Consideration of one Hundred and Fifty pounds Current Money to him in hand paid by the said Henry Weatherburn before the Sealing and Delivery hereof the Receipt whereof he doth acquit exonerate and discharge the said Henry Weatherburn his heirs Executors Administrators and Assigns by these presents hath granted bargained sold demised and to farm let to the said Henry Weatherburn all those two Lotts or half Acres of Ground situate lying and being in the said City of Wmsburg on the South Side of Duke of Gloucester Street designed in the plott or Draught of the said City by the Figures or Numbers 21 & 22 (In which said two Lots or half Acres the said Benja Harrison was Seized in Fee by virtue of Devise made by the Honble Nathaniel Harrison the Father decd to the said Benja [Harrison] his Son) together with all Houses Orchards Gardens and all other Improvements… thereunto belonging to the said Henry Weatherburn TO HAVE AND TO HOLD the said two Lotts or half Acres of Ground and premisses… Forever in as full and ample Manner to all Intents and Purposes as the said Benja Harrison or his Heirs might or could enjoy the same And the said Benja Harrison… doth further covenant promise and agree to and with the said Henry Weatherburn… that the Said lotts or half Acress… are free and clear of and from all former and other Gifts, Grants, Sales, Titles, Extents, Dowers, Troubles and Incumbrances…
Benjamin Harrison (Seal)¹

…
[Recorded York County Court
January 15, 1738]

Research has failed to discover what use Benjamin Harrison had made of the property.

Henry Wetherburn first appeared in Williamsburg c. 1731. In August, 1731 he was granted an ordinary license in the city. ² Wetherburn had marred Mary Bowcock, widow of Henry Bowcock, tavern keeper, between July 1730, and June, 1731.³ Following his marriage, he and his wife were executers of Bowcock's estate.⁴

7.

In 1736 Wetherburn's tavern was well known, William Randolph considered "Henry Wetherburn's biggest Bowl of Arrack Punch" a sufficient payment for 200 acres of Goochland County land which he deeded to Peter Jefferson.¹ Research has not established on what location Wetherburn was operating at this date. It is possible that he could have operated on lot 53 which was owned by his wife, Mary Bowcock, at the time of his marriage to her (1730/31).² Or, it is possible that he could have begun operating his tavern on Lots 20 & 21 immediately upon his purchase of it in 1738. By 1742 we know that Weatherburn was keeping a tavern at Lot 54 (Raleigh Tavern). A deed from John Blair to John Dixon, David Meade, Patrick Barclay, Alexander McKenzie and James Murray - merchants, states that "the messuage tenement and Lot of ground lying and being on the North side of Duke of Gloucester Street in the City of Wmsburgh [was] now in the possession of Henry Wetherburn, Ordinary Keeper."³ In 1742 Wetherburn bought Lot 57 but he did not live thereon but leased it.⁴

It has not been established by research the exact date at which Wetherburn left the Raleigh Tavern to set up tavern keeping on Lots 20 & 21. However, the Virginia Gazette around this period enlightens us as 8. to his location in 1745/46:

[January 23, 1746]

THE dwelling house, Out Houses, Store Houses, &c. in the main Street opposite to Mr. Wetherburn's in Williamsburg , (the most convenient Spot in this City for Trade, and a well accustomed Store, ) now the property of the Subscribers, will be exposed to publick Sale, to the highest Bidder, at the said House, on Tuesday , the 4th of March next …
Harmer & King.¹

Harmer & King were occupants of Lot 52 which is opposite to Lots 20 & 21, Wetherburn's lots.² (Consult map, frontispage of report.)

Prior to this last quoted notice, the Virginia Gazette advertised "A VERY genteel Chariot, little the worse for Wear, is to be sold, on the 30th Instant, at the House of Mr. Henry Wetherburn , in Williamsburg , where it may be seen … There is also a new Set of Harness for Four Horses, to be Sold, with or without the Chariot."³ Also, in 1746 the slaves of Theophilus Pugh were advertised to be sold "at the House of Mr. Henry Wetherburn in Williamsburg ."⁴ In February 1746 Mr. Wetherburn owed the estate of William Keith £8 for 8000 bundles of fodder supplied him.⁵ Mr. Wetherburn also supplied the wine at Keith's funeral.

On July 1, 1751, Mrs. Wetherburn died, and on July 11, 1751, Wetherburn married Mrs. Anne Marot Ingles Shields, widow of James Shields.⁶ By his second marriage he associated himself with tavern keeping again. (The second wife was the daughter of John Marot, tavern keeper of Williamsburg; 9. and her husband, Shields, also a tavern keeper, operated on Marot's former site until his death in 1750/51. See: House History of "Marot's or The English Coffee House," Research Department.)

Items in the Virginia Gazette for 1751 indicate that Wetherburn upon his marriage to Mrs. Shields, took over the executorship and sale of the Shields property.¹ In the Virginia Gazette Day Book (1751-1752), items against Wetherburn appear as: "To printing adverts for Shield's Estate" and "To advertising Shield's Tavern."²

In November, 1751 Governor Dinwiddie was entertained by the Mayor and Aldermen of Williamsburg at a dinner "at Wetherburn's": John Blair was among those present. He made these notes in his Diary about the entertainment:

[November 21, 1751]

21. Mr. Commissy, Col. Ludwell and myself went out to meet the Governor, and with Col. Fairfax, Mr. Nelson and the secretary (who came up with him from York) attended him to his house. At the entrance of the town he was complimented by the Mayor and alderman, who (wth the gentn) were got together to welcome him, and invited him and the council to a dinner they had prepared at Wetherburn's, where all dined …³

Early in 1752 charges were listed in Virginia Gazette Day Book against Wetherburn for printing tickets, cards, and advertising a ball:

Williamsburg March 6, 1752.
Henry Wetherburn Dr. To Printing
For an advertisement for his Ball 5/9
100 Tickets and Cards 13/0 ---------	£-.18.9 4

The formal notice appeared in the newspaper on March 5th: 10.

For the LADIES and GENTLEMEN, There will be a BALL, AT Henry Wetherburn's , on Tuesday Evening next, the 10th Instant, and on every Tuesday during the Sitting of the General Assembly.
TICKETS Half a Pistole.¹

In May, 1752 the Ohio Company met at Wetherburn's:

By the Committee of the Ohio Company
THE several Members of the said Company, in Virginia and Maryland , are desired to meet at Mr. Wetherburn's , in the City of Williamsburg , on Thursday the 7th Day of May next.

George Mason
James Scott ,
John Mercer .
April 7, 1752

²

On April 24, 1752 "A Meeting of the CAPE Company is desired at Mr. Wetherburn's on Tuesday Evening next, at Five o'Clock."³ In October, 1752 "A General Meeting of the CAPE Company is appointed to be at Mr. Wetherburn's, in Williamsburg, on Tuesday the 24th Instant, at 5 o'Clock in the Afternoon."⁴ (Tyler says that this "company of merchants met twice a year for the regulation of exchanges and other matters of commercial importance.")

On November 3, 1752 John Doncastle advertised his ordinary at King William Courthouse for rent as he had "taken the House of Mr. Wetherburn , in Williamsburg , to enter the first of March next":

To be Rented, and entered on the first of MARCH next , THE Ordinary, at King-William Court-House, where the Subscriber now lives,… to be sold on the Premisses…; and as the Subscriber has taken the House of Mr. Wetherburn , in Williamsburg , to enter the first of March next, all Gentlemen, &c. that please to favour him with their Custom, may depend on the best Accommodations, from
Their very humble Servant,
John Doncastle .⁵

11.

On August 15th, 1755 Doncastle gave notice that he wished to rent the house in which he then lived:

NOTICE is hereby given, That the House I now live in is to be Rented, and may be Entered on before next October Court; all the Household Furniture and Liquor to be sold. Credit will be given until the 25th Day of April next, or longer if required.
John Doncastle.¹

Doncastle, evidently, was still keeping tavern at Wetherburn's in 1755, as John Armistead advertised that at December, 1755 Court his slaves would be sold "before Mr. Doncastle's Door, in Williamsburg."²

In 1754 and 1755 Doncastle bought large quantities of mutton, pork, and beef from William Lightfoot of Tedington, James City County. In May, 1755 he Bought 633 pounds of beef from Lightfoot. (See: Ms Account Book of William Lightfoot, p. 83, Research Department.)

If Doncastle operated his tavern on the site of Wetherburn's tavern (Lots 20 and 21) - which he seems to have done according to the items noted above - from March 1753 until December 1755 (or later); then, we do not know where Wetherburn lived during this period. Wetherburn and wife owned the eastern part of Lot 56 and Lot 57.³

In 1755 Daniel Fisher, a tea, coffee and wine merchant who came to Virginia from London and settled in Williamsburg where he opened tavern at the English Coffee House for a short period, praised Wetherburn's tavern keeping. (Reading over Fisher's Journal, one can see that he had no cause for personal kindly feeling towards Wetherburn --, yet, he was not unmindful 12. of the elegance and appointments of Wetherburn's tavern:

… [referring to the ordinary at "Leids Town" on the Rappahannock] as elegant an appearance, as any I have seen in the country, Mr. Finnays or Wetherburnes in Williamsburg not excepted. The chairs, Tables, &c of the Room I was conducted into, was all of Mahogany, and So stuft with fine large glaized Copper Plate Prints: That I almost Fancied myself in Jeffries' or some other elegant Print Shop.

Fisher's Journal was printed in Some Prominent Virginia Families by Louise Pecquet du Bellet (4 vols., Lynchburg, J. Bell Co., n.d. ) vol. II, pp. 751-811.

A careful study of York County records (Judgments & Orders 1752-1754) indicates that Wetherburn was plaintiff in a number of suits in which he was trying to recover debts owed him. In practically every instance Wetherburn won his suit. The amounts ranged from around £8 to £51.1

By June, 1756, Wetherburn was back at tavern-keeping. Archibald Cary petitioned the Governor that "a writ of certiorari for removing into General Court action Hustings of assault & battery of Henry Wetherburn, Williamsburg ordinary keeper, who also directed attorney general to offer to grand jury at next general court a bill of indictment." (Photostat, Research Department; original New York City Library.)

By April, 1757, Wetherburn was operating a tavern. Three advertisements in the Virginia Gazette would lead to this conclusion:

April 22, 1757.

THE Gentlemen appointed by the Common Hall of the City of Williamsburg , will meet on Tuesday next at the House of Mr. Henry Wetherburn , at Six o'Clock in the Evening, in order to agree with a Carpenter for building a Market-House in the said City.²

13.

[April 22, 1757.]

To be SOLD at public Auction, before Mr. Wetherburn's Door, on Tuesday the 26th Instant ,
AN House and Lott, in City of Williamsburg, very well situated, wherein Mr. Green , Merchant, now lives, late belonging to Mrs. Pack; with Kitchen, Dairy, Outhouses, and Garden…
George Pitt.¹

[September 2, 1757]

To be SOLD by the Subscriber, opposite to Mr. Henry Wetherburn's in Williamsburg,
ALLEN's Cordial for the FLUX, at One Pistole a Bottle;…
Richard Coulthard.²

Another reason to believe that Wetherburn was operating his tavern in 1757 and 1758 is that William Lightfoot, of "Teddington," charged Wetherburn in 1757 (May and June) with 43 pounds of mutton, 1 side mutton and 1 side of beef. In 1758 he is charged with 255 pounds of beef. ³

On August 23, 1759, Wetherburn conveyed a part of Lot 20 to James Tarpley, merchant, the consideration named being £120 current money of Virginia:

[August 23, 1759]

[Henry Wetherburn of the City of Williamsburg, Tavern Keeper, and
Anne his wife
To
James Tarpley, merchant of the city
Consideration: 120 Pounds current money of Virginia]

… DO Grant Bargain and Sell Alien and Confirm unto the said James Tarpley his Heirs and Assigns forever a certain Part or Piece of a Lot of Ground belonging to the said Henry Wetherburn Situate Lying and being on the South side of the Main or Duke of Gloucester Street in the said [city] of Williamsburgh denoted in the Plan of the City by the Figures 20, to begin at the Northwest Corner of the said Lot and thence to Run Eastwardly and along the line of the said Lot on the said main Street Forty feet for Front thence Southerly into the said Lot Fifty Six Feet by a Line Paralel to the Street marked in the Plan of the said City by the letter L Thence Westerly Forty feet a Paralel Line to the First Course and thence Northwardly along the west Side of the said Lot to the Beginning. And all Buildings… 14. TO HAVE AND TO HOLD the said part of piece of a Lot of Ground with the Premisses unto the said James Tarpley his Heirs and Assigns…forever…IN WITNESS whereof the Parties to these Presents have hereunto interchangeable Set their hands and Affixed their Seals the day and Year first above Written.
…

Henry Wetherburn (LS)
Ann Wetherburn (LS)¹

[Recorded York County Court September 17, 1759]

Henry Wetherburn died between July 15, 1760 and December 15, 1760. Unfortunately, the will is mutilated in spots but enough is legible to know what disposition he wished for his property. Several items from the will follow:

…ITEM I [torn] wife Anne Wet [torn] [Tenem]ents an[d] [torn] also give her my Negro Girl named Clarissa forever and after my Just Debts Funeral Charges and the Expences Attending the Admon of my Estate are Paid I give her one moiety or half part of my whole Personal Estate forever ITEM I give to Harry Armistead who now lives with me my Negro Boy named Dick and my Silver watch to him and his Heirs forever and I Order and direct my Executors hereafter named to Lay out and Expend the Sum of one hundred pounds current money in the Schooling and Education of the said Harry Armistead…ITEM I Order and Direct that my Plate and whole Personal Estate be Sold by my Executors for the best price they can get for the same. ITEM. I Give and Devise to my Nephew Edward Nicholson the Reversion [of my] Lands Tenements and Slaves given to my wife for her Life and all other [torn] Estate real or Personal of what Nature or kind soever in the whole wo[torn] to him and his Heirs forever LASTLY I constitute and Appoint my Frie[n]ds Mr William Prentis and Mr. Benjamin Waller Executors of this my Will And Testament hereby revoking all other Wills by me made . . . IN WITNESS whereof I have hereunto [set] my hand and Affixed my Seal this thirteenth day of November in [torn] of our Lord one Thousand seven hundred and [torn]
Henry Wetherburn (L.S.)²

[Recorded December 15, 1760 York County Court]

The day the will was recorded, another legal paper was recorded:

On the Motion of Anne Wetherburn Widow and Relict of Henry Wetherburn deed and with the Consent of Edward Nicholson It is Ordered that Robt Carter Nicholas George Wythe William Hunter James Tarpley and Thomas Everard or any three or more of them lay off and assign unto the said 15. Anne One third part of the Lands and Slaves of the said Henry Wetherburn according to the direction of his Will.¹

On December 19, 1760, an inventory and appraisement of the estate of Wetherburn in York County was made.² This inventory of the personal estate is a long one and confirms Fisher's description as to fine furnishings. There were pier glasses, brass candlesticks, sconces, fine china and silver, mahogany furniture, prints, excellent liquors &c. By Listing the furnishing in each room, the size of the tavern is realized: "The Bull Head, The Middle, The Chamber, Room over the Bull Head, Porch Chamber, --over middle room, Great [Room], Mr. Page's, Wheat, End, The Sh[ed]." There was a kitchen and a stable on the property.

At the March 16, 1761, Court for York County, the committee appointed on December 15, 1760, to assign unto Wetherburn's widow her third part of the lands and slaves --, made this report to the court:

An Allotment and Assignment of Dower in the Land and Slaves of Henry Wetherburn decd unto his Widow was returned to wit
In Obedience to the Order of the Court of York County We the Subscribers have Allotted and Assigned unto Anne Wetherburn Widow of Henry Wetherburn decd the Dwelling House Outhouses and two Lotts of Land No 21 & 22 in the City of Williamsburgh excepting the Tenement in Possession of James Martin Barber Also nine Slaves named Caesar, Sarah and her Child Tom, Jack, Sarah and her child Rachel Sylvia Phillis and Judy and as for her one third part of the Land and Slaves of her said late Husband Given under our Hands this 25th day of January 1761 G. Wythe, Ro. C. Nicholas, Wm Hunter, Thos Everard. Whereupon It is Considered by the Court that the Attachment and Assignment aforesaid be Established and Confirmed.³

Mrs. Wetherburn's dower right-one third-was established and she was owner of Lots 20 & 21 during her lifetime and the reversion, according to the will, would descend to Edward Nicholson, Wetherburn's nephew. As Wetherburn 16. had conveyed the western part of Lot 20 to James Tarpley in 1759, the two lots allotted to Mrs. Wetherburn must have been Lot 21 and the eastern part of Lot 20. Martin may have occupied this lot.

At the March 16, 1761 Court an inventory and appraisement of Wetherburn's personal property in James City County was recorded.¹

In November, 1763 Wetherburn's executors in their report to the Court showed that Wetherburn's estate in entirety amounted to £2084.7.3 ½.² After subtracting Wetherburn's debts, £972.14.4 ¼, there remained £1111.12.11. Mrs. Wetherburn (after charges against her) received £101.-.1 ½.³ And, in 1767, a final payment was made to her of £65.7.4 ½.⁴ This adds up to: Mrs. Wetherburn's total assets from her husband's estate was £166 plus . See: Illustration #6, Appendix, for complete records.

It seems reasonable to believe that Mrs. Wetherburn-whose financial condition was anything but affluent-decided to lease the dwelling, and that James Southall,⁵ tavern keeper in Williamsburg, may have moved there c. 1766: (He was there in June, 1767)

Williamsburg, August 28.

WANTED,
A YOUNG MAN qualified to act as Bar-Keeper, that can write a tolerable Hand, and understands something of Accounts. Such a one will meet with good Encouragement by applying to
JAMES SOUTHALL.⁶

17.

A study of Lot 53 indicates that Biers was located thereon at this time. Lot 53 is opposite to Lots 20 & 21. See: map opposite front page of the report.

JUST IMPORTED,
In the Rachel & Mary, Capt . Anderson,
and to be SOLD, on very reasonable
terms, at the subscriber's shop, opposite
Mr. Southall's,
DRUGS AND MEDICINES… WILLIAM BIERS.¹

There is a possibility that Southall was operating the tavern on Lot 21 perhaps as early as November, 1763.² He had a tavern in Williamsburg, and - as research has not established him on any other location - this may have been his tavern then. In May, June, and July, 1763, James Craig had accounts against Southall:

"To a Lost part of the pasture age	£-.2.1
To Carting claret from York	-.4.-
To Carting 2 bls. Pork	-.1.6-

(Ms Account Book of James Craig, Research Department)

Whether Mrs. Wetherburn kept living in the house until her death (as she had the right to do) is not known. A few scattered items in the court records from 1766-1769 indicate that she was alive and was entering suits for debts.³ There is no record of her after August, 1769.

If Southall was operating the tavern on Lot 21 in 1763, he had the pleasure of entertaining Washington "at Southall's" January 19, 1764.⁴

In 1769 Washington "dined at the Attorney's and went to Southall's in the Evening in drawing Colo. Moore's Lottery."⁵

18.

Interesting accounts of Southall's tavern showing rates for breakfast, drinks and dinner are given below:

1768		The Estate of Samuel Middleton Decd
May	2	To Toddy 1/3 Dinr & Club 64/	£-.5.3
	3	To Julip 7 ½ Punch 1/6 Club do 21 ½	4.3
		To Dinr & Club 4/3 Cash lent 20/	1.4.3
	4	To Julip 4/10 ½ Punch 1/6 Dinr & Club 4/6	7.10.½
	5	To Breakfast 1/3 Julip 7 ½	1.10.½
			£2.3.6 1

[Account of Robert Carter]
febry 23, 1771-
Dr. Mr. James Southall of Wmsburg, ordinary.
To a pipe of madeira wine of the best quality	£55.

²

In March, 1771, Southall moved over to operate the Raleigh Tavern.³

On February 28, 1771, Robert Anderson advertised in the Virginia Gazette that he was taking over the tavern of Southall's:

WILLIAMSBURG, February 28, 1771.
THE SUBSCRIBER HAS TAKEN THE HOUSE LATELY occupied by Mr. Southall , where he hopes to be prepared, by the ensueing General Court, for the Accommodation of Gentlemen. He returns Thanks to those Gentlemen who have formerly frequented his House, and hopes to merit a Continuance of their Custom.

ROBERT ANDERSON.

N.B. A single Man, well recommended, who understands the Business of a Bar, will have Employment by Applying to me.⁴

Note that there was to be a bar operated at the tavern.

19.

During 1771 Washington dined or supped at Anderson's tavern:

1771, May 6th Monday. Williamsburg.
Supped at Anderson's.
May 7th spent the evening at Anderson's
Nov. 3. Dined at Anderson's. ¹

In 1772 Washington was at Anderson's twice:

1772 Mar. 24th ca.
Spent the evening at Anderson's.
Nov. 18th
Spent the evening at Anderson's. ²

In 1773 Washington was at Anderson's:

1773, Nov. 23rd.
Spent the evening at Anderson's.
Nov. 30th
Spent the evening at Anderson's.³

In 1774 Washington was at Anderson's four times:

1774, June 6th
Supped at Anderson's.
June 13th
Spent the evening at Anderson's.
June 14th
Spent the evening at Anderson's.
June 16th
Spent the evening at Anderson's.⁴

Anderson's tavern continued in operation until 1779. Through advertisements of Anderson and of others seeking to find strays or lost articles, or the attempts of new enterprises to locate themselves with reference to a well-known concern, it is possible to establish Anderson as still a tavern keeper. In 1771 Margaret Hunter, milliner, moved from the northern side of Duke of Gloucester Street to stand "next door to Robert Anderson's tavern."⁵ 20. In 1773 a piece of land in York County was advertised to be sold "before Mr. Robert Anderson's Tavern in Williamsburg."¹ In 1774 Anderson advertised for a "A PERSON who understands the Business of a DRAWER."² Three craftsmen in 1774 notified the public of the proximity of their businesses to Anderson's tavern: John and William Rowsay opened their jewelry shop "next Door below Mr. Anderson's Tavern;"³ Robert Bruce, clockmaker, moved from the Golden Ball to the house "above Mr. Robert Anderson's;"⁴ and James Slate, tailor, was "the second Door below Mr. Anderson's Tavern."⁵ In December, 1774, Alexander Purdie gave notice that he was withdrawing from the Virginia Gazette (of Purdie & Dixon) and would set up a Virginia Gazette of his own editorship in "the House formerly occupied by Messrs. Tarpley & Thompson & Co. on the main Street, and adjoins Mr. Robert Anderson's Tavern."⁶ (Tarpley's store was on part of Lot 20.)

When the American Revolution came on Anderson received appointment as a Captain of a company. It looks as though the tavern was operated during the revolution. In March, 1776, Anderson advertised for a good hostler: "WANTED IMMEDIATELY, A GOOD HOSTLER. Such a one coming well recommended, for diligence and sobriety, will have good wages."⁷ Advertisements for lost and strays in 21. November and December, 1776, refer to "Captain Robert Anderson's tavern."¹ In 1777, Anderson furnished lodgings. A Mr. Fournier lodged at Anderson's when he was soliciting students interested in learning mathematics and fortification.² In March, 1778, a pair of saddle bags were stolen "from Mr. Anderson's bar."³ On May 8, 1779, the real and personal property of Alexander Purdie, deceased, were advertised for sale. Along with his printing office [located on Lot 20] was an "unexpired lease of the adjoining house, used as a composing and press room."⁴

In May, 1777, Ebenezer Hazard was in Williamsburg. He records in his Journal that he "lodged at Anderson's." (See: Virginia Magazine of History, October, 1954.)

Anderson's tavern was popular in 1779 with a prominent local citizen:

1779	Colo Thos Jones
June 11th	to Ro: Anderson	Dr
	Dinners & ca at 10 ds	£51
	Recd the above
	Ro: Andeson

⁵

In September, 1779, Ambrose Davenport gave notice that he had taken over Anderson's tavern in Williamsburg:

WILLIAMSBURG, September 25, 1779.
THE subscriber begs leave to inform the publick in general, and his friends in particular, that he has opened TAVERN in the house formerly occupied by Captain Robert Anderson. Gentlemen who favour him with their custom, may depend on his utmost endeavors to give satisfaction.
AMBROSE DAVENPORT.⁶

22.

Davenport was operating on the property in 1780. An announcement by Margaret Hunter (who was located a this date on Lot 53-opposite to Lots 20 & 21) stated that her store and millinery shop was "opposite Mr. Ambrose Davenport's tavern."¹

However, by August, 1780, Davenport had decided to sell his household furniture and equipment such as billiard tables, balls &c:

To be SOLD to the highest bidder, for ready money, at the subscriber's house in this city, on Monday the 21st of August, SOME household and kitchen furniture, consisting of a number of good Beds, bedstands, sheets, counterpanes, chairs, tables, looking-glasses, &c. a billiard table and balls. Also three horses and two riding chairs. Likewise a likely young negro fellow, about 20 years of age, and a neat tenement in the lower end of the town, leading to York.
WILLIAMSBURG, July 27, 1780.
AMBROSE DAVENPORT.²

The removal of the capital to Richmond in the spring of 1780 may have been the cause of Davenport's decision to sell out. Such removal of the capital took away the income of tavern keepers in Williamsburg at "Public Times" and throughout the year.

While Southall, Anderson and Davenport were operating the tavern on Lot 21, the property was owned and held by Wetherburn's heirs, the Nicholsons.³ (In the allotment to Anne Wetherburn in 1761, (cited before in the report) two tenements had been referred to. These were to revert at her death to Edward Nicholson and his heirs.)

Another reason to know that Nicholson was owner is found in a deed of Tarpley's store and lot to Samuel Beale in 1782. The deed mentions the eastern and southern boundaries of the store as "the Henry Nicholson lot."⁴

23.

Further evidence is found in a bill of repairs charged by Humphrey Harwood, Williamsburg carpenter, against Henry Nicholson in 1783. These repairs were apparently made on the same house that Wetherburn formerly lived in since two of the rooms bearing the names of "Bull Head," and "a large room" were listed in Wetherburn's inventory.

	Henry Nicolson, and Mrs Ann Craig	Dr
1783
Novemr 11	…
	To whitewashing 3 rooms a 4/16 & a large Room 10/--	1.8.6
	…
	To laying a harth in Bull head 2/6 & tag down Grate ---	-.5.-

¹

As the account is made out to "Henry Nicholson and Mrs. Ann Craig," one wonders if Mrs. Craig could be the former Mrs. Ann Wetherburn, widow of Henry Wetherburn?² Making the account jointly would lead one to think that this property once owned by Wetherburn, was still jointly owned by his heirs. Further repairs under this account were: lathing, plastering, bushels of whitewash, laying hearth, mending chimney. Rooms mentioned are: "3 Rooms," "large room," "back room," "Bull head," "5 Rooms" and passages, entries, closets, stairs &c.³ It is possible that Mrs. Craig was living in the house as the account was paid in 1785 by "Bazel Holmes for Mrs Craig."

Williamsburg Land Tax Records for 1782 list Henry Nicholson as owner of "3 lots with tax value of £15."⁴ In 1785 Nicholson's lots were broken down into 1 lot valued at £5 and 2 lots which he sold to William Rowsay. (The first was Lot 57); the other 2 lots are interpreted as Lot 21 and the 24. part of Lot 20 once owned by James Davis - but, evidently, not paid for.)¹

As Nicholson owned three lots in the city from 1782 to 1789--, it is difficult if not impossible to know when repairs and refinishing was made on each lot. Harwood's accounts - detailed as they are - give no clear cut solution. These accounts beginning in 1780 are given in detail in Illustration #3. The items-with the exception of the account with Henry Nicholson and Mrs. Ann Craig (referred to above)-could be for any of the three lots.

The Frenchman's Map of Williamsburg (1782) indicates a large building flush to the street on what appears to be Lot 21 with four outbuildings to the south. On Lot 20 there is a good-sized building with three out-buildings to the south.²

In 1783 Henry Nicholson and wife conveyed a part of what appears to be Lot 20 east of James Davis, tailor:

[September 5, 1783]

[Henry Nicholson and Sarah, his wife,
to
James Davis, tailor,
Consideration: £90]

THIS INDENTURE made the fifth Day of September in the Year of our Lord one Thousand seven hundred and eighty three BETWEEN Henry Nicolson of Williamsburg in the State of Virginia, Planter, and Sarah his Wife, of the one part and James Davis of the same place Taylor, of the other part WITNESSETH that for and in Consideration of the sum of Ninety Pounds to the said Henry Nicolson in hand at or before the sealing and Delivery of these presents by the said James Davis well and truly paid, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged. They the said Henry Nicolson and Sarah his Wife have, and each of them hath, granted, bargained, sold, aliened, released and confirmed, and by these presents do, and each of them doth, grant, bargain… and confirm, unto the said James Davis his Heirs and assigns: all that Messuage or Tenement now in the Possession of the said James Davis, situate, standing and being in the City of Williamsburg aforesaid, adjoining to 25. the Store of Samuel Beall ¹ esquire on the West, and to another Tenement belonging to the said Henry Nicolson on the east Together with all and singular the ways, passages, Waters, Water Courses, Lights, Easements, Profits, Privileges, Advantages and Appurtenances, whatsoever, to the said premises belonging or in any wise appertaining and all the estate, Right, Title, Interest, property Claim and Demand, whatsoever, of them the said Henry Nicolson and Sarah his Wife, or either of them of in or to the same. To have and to hold the said Messuages or Tenement…unto the said James Davis his Heirs and assigns…for ever…IN WITNESS whereof the said parties to the presents have hereunto set their Hands and Seals the Day and Year above Written.

Henry Nicolson (LS)
Sarah Nicolson (LS)

Signed sealed and
Delivered in presence of
David Miller
William Rowsay
Samuel Crawley

Received the day and year within written of the within named James Davis, Ninety Pounds in full for the Consideration within mentioned
Witness
Henry Nicolson.

²

From this conveyance, we note that Davis was already living on the premises when this was signed. Though it reads like a deed, it must have been a lease as Nicholson was owner when he conveyed all of his property to Rowsay (to follow chronologically).

In June, 1785, Davis advertised for "two JOURNEYMEN TAILORS" and notifies customers that he has on hand also "a general Assortment of Superfine and Second CLOTHS, and other MERCHANDISE":

[June 4, 1785]

The Subscriber Begs leave to inform the Public in General, and his customers in particular, that he has just received from LONDON, by the VIRGINIA HERO
A general Assortment of Superfine and Second CLOTHS, and other MERCHANDISE, Which he will sell reasonably for Cash or Tobacco; They consist of the Following articles, viz. SUPERFINE blue, 26. brown, light, drab, skyblue, Boutilles, and white Broadcloth, Second ditto, Superfine white and buff Cashmeres, Nankeens, Silks and Twists of all sorts, White, and brown Buckrams, Superfine blue, white, and buff Shalloons, A large assortment of the most elegant and fashionable Buttons, Cambricks, white persians, White and brown thread Stockings, Silk ditto, Coarse and fine Irish Linens, Muslin, Demity, Light and ground Handkerchiefs, Copperplate ditto, Jeans and Fustians, Printed Linens, Chintzes and Calicoes, 5 quarter Balloon Chintz.

He proposes carrying on his Business as usual; and will give good encouragement to two JOURNEYMEN TAILORS, who understand their business. Gentlemen who purchases a plain suit of clothes out of his shop, may have them made for Four Dollars, and may rely on having their work done in the neatest manner, and as expeditiously as possible. LADIES RIDING HABITS made in the newest taste.
JAMES DAVIS.¹

By 1785 William Rowsay ² had purchased two lots from Henry Nicholson.³ We believe that the two lots were Lot 21 and that part of Lot 20 on which James Davis had been located.⁴ Rowsay also bought the eastern part of Lot 20 from Samuel Beal. (See: will of Rowsay to follow.)

On May 31, 1786, Rowsay offered through the columns of the Virginia Gazette or American Advertiser to sell "the house in which he now resides": 27.

May 31, 1786.

The precarious state of the Subscriber's health has determined him to leave the state, and being largely indebted to Messr. HUNT & ADAMS, and they pressing for payment, has compelled him however disagreeable, to deliver up and assign his store accounts over to them, with full power to sue and recover the same, in like manner that he himself lawfully could do…

…
The subscribers Houses and Lots on Palace-street, with the Lands and Negroes in York-County, advertised sometime past, are yet for sale. He would also willingly sell the house he now resides in, which was formerly a well frequented tavern, being the house on the main street, nearly opposite the Rawleigh, occupied by Mr. Southall, and afterwards by Mr. Anderson. The houses and out-houses are now in good repair, and the lot under an excellent plank enclosure.
WILLIAM ROWSAY.¹

From Rowsay's description of his dwelling, there can be no doubt but that it was located on Lot 21.

Rowsay's will (written on July 7, 1786; recorded February 5, 1787) made disposition of this property thus:

[Will of William Rowsay]

…I give and bequeath to my Executors herein after named or the survivors of them all my estate both real and personal to be sold either at public or private Sale in their best judgement for the purpose of paying my Debts, except the Lott and Houses which I purchased of Samuel Beall² adjoining Store whereon I now live which I give and bequeath unto my Affectionate Wife Frances Rowsay for and during the term of her natural life as the said Lott stands now inclosed, to wit, running a due South course from the East end of the Store house on the said Lott to the Back Street including all the improvements thereon which said Lott and Houses I desire may at the expence of estate be repaired and rendered comfortable for my Family. After the death of my said Wife I give and bequeath the said Houses & Lott purchased as aforesaid of Samuel Beall to my Son John in Fee Simple…And if the payment of my Debts in the opinion of my Executors should not 28. require the Sale of my Lotts and Houses whereon I now dwell which I purchased of Henry Nicholson then I give and bequeath the said Houses and Lotts to my Son John in Fee Simple he paying to each of my Daughters one third part of what my executors may judge the said Tenement to be worth… I give all the residue of my Estate after paying my Debts thus one Moiety thereof to my affectionate Wife Frances in Fee Simple and one-fourth part thereof to the Children of my friend MR. James Craig and to such charitable purposes as my executors may think proper in equal proportions… My Will and desire is that all my Estate except what may be taken for the payment of Debts as aforementioned may be kept as far as possible together and the produce of it employed towards the support of my affectionate Wife and my Children until the death or marriage of my Wife, or the marriage or arrival at Age of any one of my Children…¹

In the above will, Rowsay makes it clear that he owned Lot 21 (on which there was a store at this date) and the entire Lot 20 (the eastern part had been purchased from Samuel Beall c. 1785, and the western part went with his purchase from Nicholson in 1785). He affirms that the property purchased of Beall begins at the east end of the storehouse thereon and running back to Francis Street should be repaired and made comfortable for his wife as her property. He notes that "the Lotts and Houses whereon I now dwell which I purchased of Henry Nicholson" would belong to his son, John, if the estate should be able to pay out all indebtedness. And, in case of death or marriage of his wife, the property kept in tact could be divided. We note, also, that the lot was well inclosed with pailings.

William Harwood's accounts with Rowsay indicate that repair work was done upon the store and other houses; however we cannot state on which lot this work was done except in two instances quoted below: 29.

		Mr William Rowsay's Estate. By Ben Powell	Dr
1788
Februy…
	28	For Mrs. Rowsay
		To 9 Bushels of lime a 1/ & 10 hair ¼ & Layg dary floor & plasterg 10	£1.0.-
		To Seting up 2 Grates 3/9 & 2 ½ days labour a 2/6	10.0
		To taking Down a Grate & Seting it up again 5/ & 4 bushs lime 4/	9.-
		To 250 Bricks a 3/ & layg Smoak House floor & Plastering do 10	17.6 1
…
		Mr Benjamin Powell	Dr
		Dr Brought from Folio 174 Ledger A	£139. 1. 3
1788	th	To 12 bushels of lime 12/ & 500 bricks 15/ for Rowsay's House	1. 7. -
August	12	To labours Work 4/ & building up Steps 10/	.14.-
		To building up Steps to Cellar 6/	6.-
		To repairing Well at plantation 7/6	7.6 -
Novr	13	To 200 bricks 6/ 8 bushels of lime 5/ & labr 2/6	13.6
		To underpinning necessary 4/6	4.6
		E. Excr for	£142.13. 9
		W.H. Exor
		The above work amounting to	3.12. 6
		should have been charged to Wm Rowsay decd	£139. 1. 3
1789
Septr	1	To yr assumpsit for Rowsay's Est.	11.19. 5
			£151. 0. 8
1790
Jan.	29	To cash pd you by an order on Jos. Prentes'
		Esqr in full of all demands	£ 22. 4.11
			£173. 5. 7

²

Powell was named to act as one of Rowsay's executors in case the first named could not act. Evidently, he did settle Rowsay's estate. Items in 30. February, 1788, above quoted, apply to the houses on Lot 20 which Rowsay had bequeathed to Mrs. Rowsay for her home following his death; items in August 1788 and November, 1788 apply to John Rowsay's houses on Lot 21. It gives a picture of the outhouses on Mrs. Rowsay's lot as well as work done in general on both lots.

Sometime prior to 1791 Mrs. Rowsay may have married Benjamin Powell.¹ From 1785 through 1819 William Rowsay or his estate was taxed for 5 lots in the city - which means that the estate was held intact until 1819. In 1804 Frances Powell was taxed for two lots at $40 and in 1820 Frances Powell's two lots are described as follows: the first, with a house or houses on it valued at $600, house and lot $675 had been formerly charged to Wm. Rowsay's Est. (This is interpreted to be Lot 20.) In 1820 Frances Powell is charged with another lot with house or houses valued at $1100; houses and lot $1200. (This is believed to be Lot 21.) In 1820 Frances Powell is charged with another lot with house or houses valued at $1100; houses and lot $1200. (This is believed to be Lot 21.) In 1825 Frances Powell held 2 lots: "1 lot and buildings $675; buildings $600" and "1 lot and buildings $1200; buildings $1100." In 1826 Mrs. Powell still held the lot valued at $1200 but she conveyed the $675 lot to Edward Walker.²

Insurance policies for the Mutual Assurance Society - though not on Mrs. Powell's property - indicate that she was living at this property in 31. 1796. Policy #149 to William Carter states that his property was located "on the main street in Williamsburg…situated between the House of James Anderson¹ and that of Mrs. Powell in the county of James City."² In 1806 a policy, #711, to Anna Byrd, indicates that her property on Francis Street lay between "the Lott of James Anderson west and that of Frances Powell East."³ In 1823 Leonard Henley's policy, #5029, indicates that he was situated between "the lot of William McCandlish on the East, Frances Powell's lot on the West, and streets otherwise."⁴

On April 24, 1837, Martha McGill, daughter of Frances Powell, gave a deed of trust to the lot and dwelling house under discussion to her son, John D. McGill's trustee, George W. Southall, for debts to the Williamsburg merchants, Sheldon & Maupin, and William W. Vest:

[April 24, 1837]

…All that certain piece, parcel or lot of land and Dwelling House thereon, situate, lying and being in the City Williamsburg, and now held and owned by the said Martha, and bounded as follows, to wit: on the North by the main Street, or Duke of Gloucester Street; south by the back street, or Francis Street; East by the Lot of Leonard Henley, decd-and West by the Lot of Roscow Cole, now occupied by John A. Mackinder together with all and singular the buildings, etc.⁵

Mrs. Frances Powell was dead by 1825. She had a will which was, evidently, recorded in the Hustings Court of Williamsburg.⁶

32.

Following Mrs. Powell's death, Mrs. McGill must have taken in a few roomers and boarders. Bills from Mrs. McGill to Mr. B. Hansford, to J. Cockell and F. Morrison so indicate:

	Mr B. Hansford To M. McGill	Dr
	To board of your daughter for 8 ½ a $12	$ 7.02
	Contra by Cash $40 Ditto 10.00 Beef 4.50	54.50
		47.50 1
	Dr Martha McGill
	In Account with G. W. Southall	Cr
1838
Oct 8	To Cash paid John D. McGill for you	$30.00
Dec 22	Cash recd of J. Cockell for rent of large Room	20.00
" "	10 pCt Coms for renting out room & Collecting rent	2.00 2
	Geo: F. Morrison
	To Mrs. Martha H. McGill
1835
Jan 15	To Quarters Rent at $60	$15.00
	Commencing 15 Oct. 1834

³

Williamsburg Land Tax records for 1841 show that Richard Randolph had come into possession of the property "via Martha H. McGill heretofore to the Estate of Francis Powell."⁴

Randolph held it only two years. In 1843 Johnson B. Carter was the owner. The property carried the same valuations as when Mrs. Powell was the owner.⁵ In 1848 Johnson B. Carter had transferred the property to William 33. Carter of Richmond, and it was as "Formerly to Johnson B. Carter." ¹ William S. Peachy in his account Book (1837-1851) in Research Library records:

1846
July 27	JOHNSTON B. CARTER	Dr
	To 5 pr ct commr on $1734 amount of House & Lot conveyed to me as Trustee	$86.20
	To deed to Wm Carter purchaser	5.--
	To amount paid on bond, bal of sale	1632.80
		1724.00
1846
July 27	By amount of sale of House & Lot	$1724.

In 1852 John H. Barlow was the owner: "1 lot & bldg $2000; bldg $1800." An insurance policy of Leonard Henley Estate (1835) places J. H. Barlow on the west.² Barlow was owner in 1861. This is the last year of the Williamsburg Land Tax records extant. Barlow's estate was the owner in 1871. ³

Mr. John S. Charles, an old Williamsburg citizen, writing in 1933 of Williamsburg as he recalled it c. 1861, describes the property thus:

The house next west [east?] was known as the Young house, as Rev. Mr. Young was pastor of the Baptist Church and lived there, his wife conducting a female school in this house when the War began. Just after the War some army officers were quartered there. The next house was known as the Henley house, which along with the Young house has changed but little in appearance since 1861.⁴

Mrs. Victoria M. Lee gave her remembrance of the property thus:

Next to the Servient House was the Richard Bland, which has remain unchanged. A family of Young's occupied this house; my family and I boarded with them when we first came to Williamsburg as refugees.⁵

34.

In 1889 in a suit which started in 1871, the property of Barlow's was advertised for sale as "all that valuable lot of land, with the building thereon, situated in the City o Williamsburg Known as the Carter lot bounded as follows on the North by Duke of Gloucester Street on the East by the lot of Wm. H. E. Morecock being the lot upon which William H. E. Morecock now resides. This lot is well located and highly improved." The purchaser was R. H. Jackson who paid $790 for the lot and buildings thereon. The property valued at $1500 in the 1870's.¹

In 1895 Jackson gave a mortgage for $1200 to Charles J. Krag of property described as "known as and being the 'Carter House' and bounded as follows: on the north by Duke of Gloucester Street; on the East by the lot of R. B. Servant; on the south by Francis Street and on the west by the lots of said Jackson and R.N. Harrell. And being the premise sold and conveyed by B.D.Peachy, Commissioner to the said Robert H. Jackson by deed dated February 29, 1892 and recorded in Deed Book #2, page 426 records of said James City County State of Virginia…"²

In 1918 Mrs. Virginia Bruce Haughwout had become the owner.³ She is the present owner.

Note: The writer has not found any insurance policies covering this property.

Illustration #1

From Frenchman's Map

Illustration #2

Williamsburg Land Tax Records:

1782	Henry Nicholson	3 lots	£ 15
1785	William Rowsay	2 lots via Henry Nicholson (tax transfers)
1798	William Rowsay est	5 lots	$ 83.34
1803	William Rowsay	5 lots	$ 83.34
1804	Frances Powell	2 lots	$ 40
1806	Frances Powell	2 lots	$ 66.67
1807	Frances Powell	2 lots	$ 70. -
1812	Frances Powell	2 lots	$100
1819	Frances Powell	1 lot & bldg $675; bldg $600
		1 lot & bldg $1200; bldg $1100
1825	Frances Powell Est	1 lot & bldg $675; bldg $1100
		1 lot & bldg $1200; bldg $1100
1826	Frances Powell Est	1 lot & bldg $1200; bldg $1100
	Edward Walker	1 lot & bldg $675; bldg $600 via Martha McGill who heired from Frances Powell decd
1841	Richard Ranolph	1 lot & bldg $1200; bldg $1100 via Martha H. McGill heretofore to the Estate of Frances Powell
1842	Richard Randolph	1 lot & bldg $1200; bldg $1100 via Martha H. McGill heretofore to the Estate of Frances Powell
1843	Johnson B. Carter	1 lot & bldg $1200; bldg $1100
1848	William Carter
	Richmond	1 lot & bldg $1200; bldg $1000 Formerly charged to Johnson B Carter. Transferred in 1848.
1851	William Carter
	Richmond	1 lot & bldg $2000; bldg $1800
1852	John H. Barlow	1 lot & bldg $2000; bldg $1800
1856	John H. Barlow	1 lot & bldg $2500; bldg $2000
		McGills Lot
1861	John H. Barlow	1 lot & bldg $2500; bldg $2000

Personal Property Tax Williamsburg:

1788	Frances Rowsay	4 blacks
1792	Fanny Powell	4 blacks
1724	[Frances Powell does not appear again]

Illustration #3

[NOTE: Writer does not know which of Nicholson's lots these repairs were made. Some of it could have been on Lot 57.]

Ms Ledger of Humphrey Harwood, B, page 28

Mr. BENJN WELDON. (for Henry Nicolsons Estate)

			Dr
1780	th
Jany	17	To 8 bushs of lime a 8/ & ½ do hair [blot] & 1 days labr 2/6	£-. 8. 9
		To 2 days work Mending plastering 12/	12.-
	31	To Whitewashing 2 Rooms, & a Closet a 3/9	11. 3
	27	To 100 bricks 2/9 Mending Kitching Chimney 3/9 & labr 1/6	7. 9
March	18	To 2 bushs of lime 1/6 hair & mendg plastering 2/8 & ½ day labr 1/	5. 6
		To Whitewashing 3 Rooms, & A passage a 3/9	11. 3
			--------
			2.16.6

PER CONTRA

1785
Augst 10	By this Account Caried to Mr. Henry Nicolson's Account (Folio 41)	£2.16. 6

[NOTE: Writer does not know on which of Nicholson's property these repairs were made. Some of it could have been to his building on Lot 57.]

Ms. Ledger of Humphrey Harwood, B, page 41

Mr HENRY NICOLSON

1781	th		Dr
Jany	18	To 1 bushel of lime 1/3 & mendg Chimy & turning Arch 3/6	£-. 4.9
Octobr	30	To Cash lent you 13/4. (Decemr 5th) to Mortar & plaster a 6/	19.4
no such acct		To Work done to Amount to 56/6 Changed to Mr Ben Weldon as Gardin to the Above Mr Henry Nicolson	1. 4.1
			2.16.6
1782	th
Septr	25	To 5 Bushs of Wheat a 6/	1.10.-

1783		HENRY NICOLSON, AND MRS ANN CRAIG	Dr
Novemr	11	To 18 bushels of lime a 1/ & hair 1/6 & 5 days Labour a 3/	£1.14.6
		To repairing larthing & plastering 30/ & to 40 Larthes a 7	1.10.7
	24	To 4 bushels of whitewash a 2/ & whitg 1 passage 4/6 & 2 entires 4/6	.17.-
		To whitewashing 3 Rooms a 4/6 & large Room 10/--	1. 8.6
		To 4 bushs of lime a 1/ & Repairing plastering in Back room 2/6	6.6
		To laying a harth 2/6 & mending a Chimney 2/6 (do)	5.-
		To whitewashing back Room & Closet 7.6	7.6
		To whitewashing 5 rooms and 2 passages up Stairs a 4/6	1.11.6
			£ 8. 1.12

Mr Henry Nicolson

		To Sundries Brought Down	£ 5.10.7
1785	at
Augst	31	To 32 bushels of lime at 1/ & 668 bricks a 3/pr C-	2.12.-
		To taking down Chimney 25/	1. 5.-
Sepr	1	To 18 bushels of lime 18/ & 4 days labr a 2/6	1. 8.-
	3	To 15 do of do 15/ & 2000 bricks a 3/	3.15.-
		To 7 days labr a 2/6 & rebuilding Chimney 70/	4. 7.6
		To 3 days labr a 2/6	7.6
	14	To 56 bushels of limea 1/ & 4 bushels of hair a 2/	3. 4.-
	15	To 28 bushs of do a 1/ & plastering 1 Room (85 Gal) a 3 ½	2.13.8
		To repairg larthing & plastering in the other Rooms 38/	1. 8.-
		To laying a Harth up Stairs 2/6 & buildg pair of Steps 7/6	.10.-
		To 7 ½ days labr a 2/6 & 100 larths 1/6	1. 0.3
		To repairing underbining 2/ & 4 load of sand carted a 1/6	8.-
Octr	12	To 1 ½ bushels of Whitewash a 2/ & whitewashing 3 Rooms & 1 passage & Closet a 2/6	1. 0.6
1786
March	7	To 6 bushels of Oats a 2/6	15.-
			£30. 1.-
1788
Decr	10	To 1 bushl lime 1/ & mendg plasterg & lbar 1/ --	2

Illustration # 4

Illustration #5

Illustration #6