Travis House Historical Report, Block 14 Building 4 Lot I, J & KOriginally entitled: "(Travis House) Block 14 Colonial Lot I (J) & K"
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Library Research Report Series - 1288
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Library
Williamsburg, Virginia
1994
Travis House - after fire and before moving
Block 14 Colonial Lots I [J] & K
(Travis House)
Colonial Lots I [J] & K (Travis House)
LOCATION:
Lots I & K lie on the north side of Francis Street in Williamsburg in the block bounded by Francis Street south, Henry Street west, Lot L on east and Lots 41 & 42 on the north. The Lots are marked "I & K" and "Travis" on the College Map (1791?).
HISTORY (in summary):
Because the lots are in that part of Williamsburg which lies in James City county and because county and general court records were destroyed by fire in 1865-, it is difficult to get a complete chain to title to this property through the years.
The first known owner of these lots was Jonathan Druitt. His will mentions that he held Lots I & K along with Lot L. According to Druitt's will, the property fell to Bruton Parish. Apparently, the vestry had allowed Edward Champion Travis, prior to 1765, to erect a dwelling and other improvements thereon. By 1778 William Bland had become owner of Lots I & K. He was followed by Robert Andrews who conveyed to Champion Travis in 1797. During Andrew's ownership, repairs and changes were made by Humphrey Harwood, Williamsburg brick mason and carpenter. The dwelling house was 70' by 20' in 1796. By 1806 the dwelling house was 76' by 20' with changes to the north wing. Champion Travis' ownership was followed by that of Samuel Travis. William Edloe came into the property via the Travis heirs in 1830. In 1839 Scervant Jones had bought via Edloe. In 1846 Jones sold to Eastern Lunatic Asylum who have held it until the present time. In 1929 Williamsburg Restoration moved the original house from its site to a lot on Duke of Gloucester across from the Palace Green (Lot 159). More recently, the old house was moved again to a temporary location on the south side of Francis street near the Hospital.
For detailed history of these lots, see: history to follow.
PHOTOSTAT COPY OF THE WILLIAMSBURG PLAT IN "WILLIAMSBURG, THE OLD COLONIAL CAPITOL" BY LYON G. TYLER
Block 14 Colonial Lots I [J] & K (Travis House)
LOCATION:
These lots are located in Williamsburg on Francis Street. They are bounded by Duke of Gloucester Street north, Henry Street west, Francis Street south and lots on the east. See: Tyler's adaptation of the College Map (1791?) opposite this page.
HISTORY:
The first known owner of these lots was Jonathan Druitt1 (sometimes spelled "Drewit," "Druet" or "Drewett.") Just when Druitt gained possession is not known from the records. However, when his will was filed in the General Court of Williamsburg on April 30, 1735, lots I & K along with Lot L, were named with the bequest that they be allotted to Richard Stayton,2 a minor. The records of the General Court were destroyed by fire during the Civil War. Fortunately, legal procedure reached the General Assembly relating to Drewit's property in Williamsburg and was thus recorded:
3.[October 1765--5th GEORGE III]
An act to vest certain lots in the City of Williamsburg in the purchasers thereof, and for other purposes therein mentioned.
- I.WHEREAS it is represented to this present general assembly, by the minister and vestry of the parish of Bruton, in the counties of York and James City, that one Jonathan Druitt, deceased, did by his last will and testament, which was established by decree of the general court, the thirtieth day of April one thousand seven hundred and thirty five, give and devise unto one Richard Stayton, and the issue male of his body, three lots or half acres of land in the city 2. of Williamsburg; but if he should die before he attained the lawful age, or without issue, then to objects of charity belonging to the said parish, and made the vestry of the said parish his executors: That the said Richard Stayton is since dead without issue, and that it would best answer the charitable intent of the donor if the said vestry were empowered to dispose of the said lots, and apply the interest of the purchase money towards the relief of the poor of the said parish.
- II.And whereas Edward Champion Travis,1 gentleman, hath contracted and agreed with the vestry of the said parish for the purchase of two of the said lots, denoted in the plan of the said city by the letters I K; and James Blair, gentleman, hath also agreed for the purchase of one other of the said lots, denoted in the said plan by the letter L; and they are now severally and respectively in possession of the said lots, and have built dwelling-houses, and made other improvements thereon.
- III.Be it therefore enacted, by the Lieutenant-Governour, Council, and Burgesses, of this present General Assembly, and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same, That from and after the passing of this act the said Edward Champion Travis shall be, and he is hereby vested with the absolute property and fee simple estate of and in the said lots, or one acre of ground, denoted in the plan of the said city by the letters I K; and the said James Blair shall be, and in like manner is hereby vested with the same estate of and in the lot denoted in the said plan by the letter L; they the said purchasers paying to the said vestry the consideration money which they were respectively to pay for the said lots.
- IV.And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That the said vestry, or the major part of them, shall lend and place the money, when by them received for the sale of the said lots, in the hands of some responsible person, taking bond with good and sufficient security, in the penalty of double the money so lent, payable to themselves and their successours, the vestry of the said parish for the time being, with condition for the repayment of the said money, together with legal interest thereon, whenever the same shall be demanded; and the said vestry shall apply the interest arising on the said money from time to time to the relief of such objects of charity belonging to the said parish as they shall think proper, and to no other use or purpose whatsoever,
- V.Provided always, That the execution of this act shall be, and the same is hereby suspended until his majesty's approbation thereof shall be obtained.2
Prior to this, in November, 1762, it had been ordered by the General Assembly that "a Bill [be introduced] to empower the Vestry of Bruton Parish to sell three Lots in Williamsburg, and to lay out the Money for the Benefit of the Poor of the said Parish; and it is referred to Mr. Attorney to prepare and bring in the same."1 In December, 1762 Mr. Attorney presented to the House the Bill.2 After being presented to the Council3 it was ready for the Governor's assent. On May 11th 1765 it was "Ordered, That Leave be given to bring in a Bill To empower the Vestry of the Parish of Bruton to sell certain Lots in the City of Williamsburg, and it is referred to Mr. Edmund Pendleton to prepare and bring in the same."4
It looks as though the way had been prepared, legally, for the Parish to sell the lots. However, consent had not been given by the Governor (representing his Majesty George III) at this date. Power had been given to Pendleton to prepare the legal papers for the Governor's signature &c. However, the Burgesses did not meet again until November 6, 1766. Sessions to follow make no mention of this Bill-so, we do not know, actually, if the Governor signed and made it possible for the Parish to convey to Champion Travis or not.
Legally, it seems unusual for Travis and Blair to erect "dwelling houses" on the lots before they had title to same. However, this situation happens later in the history of Williamsburg when private citizens built on public lots. Suits followed in order to clear the titles &c.
4.At any rate, prior to 1778 the Reverend William Bland1 had become the owner of property which records indicate (later in the report) to be Lots I & K. Bland was in Williamsburg as early as 1769 though we do not know whether he lived on this property then.2
We know from a deed from the Reverend Robert Andrews3 to Champion Travis of date October 6, 1797, that Andrews had purchased the said lots on September 23, 1778 from William Bland.4 This deed was recorded in James City County Court.
In 1780 Andrews had certain changes made to his property by Humphrey Harwood, Williamsburg carpenter and brick mason. There was work such as "To 12 days work of my People Moveing House," "6200 Bricks," "Chimney & underpinning House," "repairing Larthing & plastering" and "Whitewashing 2 Rooms & 2 Closets in D. House."5
It is difficult to interpret these changes. Was the original house moved? If so, where? Was one of the smaller houses moved back from street?
The Frenchman's Map of Williamsburg (1782)6 shows the lots with houses thereon thus:
At any rate, upon moving a house in May 1780, Andrews had a chimney built, the house underpinned, lathing, plastering and whitewashing 2 rooms and 2 closets in "D. House." 1
No other changes were recorded until May 1783 when 4 rooms and 4 closets and a passage were whitewashed. In 1785 repairs were made again: laying hearth, setting up grate (up stairs) and pointing chimney. In 1786 whitewashing was done to 2 passages, ceiling and closet, underpinning smoke-house &c. In 1787 a shed was lathed and plastered, porch underpinned, steps rebuilt to cellar and jambs to chimney rebuilt. In 1788 repairs were made to plaster and whitewashing was done to 3 ceilings, 1 room and 2 passages.2
Andrews held only 2 lots in the city from 1782 (when the first land tax records were made) until 1798 when he conveyed the property to Champion Travis.3 The tax valuation remained the same, £2, until 1797 when it changed to $11. As Andrews held only two lots in the city, the repairs and changes must have been made to his property, (Lots I & K).
The College Map (1791?) has "Travis" on Lots I & K. Copy in the Research Department.
In 1796 Andrews insured his property with the Mutual Assurance Society thus:
"I the underwritten Robert Andrews residing at Williamsburg in the county of James City [insure] my wooden Buildings on France Street at Williamsburg now occupied by Ruckebey Roberts4 situated between the Lot of Wm Piggot56 and Henry Street in the county of James City…"1 The dwelling is noted as 70 x 20 of wood with smoke house 20 x 10. A building is noted as "a store" but is marked out as it was not insured.2
In 1797 Andrews conveyed the lots I & K to Champion Travis:
[October 6, 1797][Robert Andrews & Mary his wife
to
Champion Travis Consideration: $1184]All those two lots or half acres of Land, lying & in[sic] the City of Wmsburg & denoted in the plan thereof by the letters I. K. bounded on the west by Henry Street--on the north by the lots of Wyatt Coleman, East by the Lot of Wm Piggott, & on the South by France Street, except a small parcel of the Eastern Lot, beginning [sic] 24 feet from North. East Corner thereof, and running 12 feet west along the back line, thence South 8 feet, thence East 12 feet. & thence North to the beginning on the back…[illegible] Which sd lots were purchased by the sd Andrews of Wm Bland & Ann his wife, by deed dated 23 Sept 1778 & recorded in Jas City Co…3
This is the only account of sale of this property as it lies in James City part of Williamsburg and the court records were destroyed by fire.
It looks as though Lots I & K were in this pattern in 1797:
A careful study of Lot L and of Lots 41 & 42 gives no indication of the small portion (12' x 8') of Lot K reserved by Andrews in the above quoted conveyance.
The Bucktrout Map (1803) of Williamsburg shows "Travis" on Lots I & K. See: copy in Research Department.
In 1809 Travis insured his property designating that it was "on Francis and Henry Street now occupied by himself, situated between the lot of Mary Charlton (formerly Piggots) and Henry street and the lot of James Moir [north]": the dwelling house is represented as being 76' front, 20' at east end and 17' at the west with three dependencies: kitchen, smokehouse and laundry.1
By 1815 Samuel Travis2 son of Champion Travis, was executor of Champion's estate.
Travis insured the property in 1815. He describes it as "on a street in Williamsburg dividing them from the Lunatick Hospital and situated between John Bowdens lot on the East and Thomas Turner on the North in the county of James City." The dimensions of the dwelling and smoke house are as of 1809. There are indications of two other buildings on the lot though they are not insured.3
In 1820 Samuel Travis is charged with "1 lot $1150; $1000 added for buildings Heretofore charged to the Estate of Champion Travis."4
In 1823 Jesse Cole, executor of Samuel Travis, insured the property 8 now occupied by Robert B. Travis, a brother. The property lay "between Thomas Turners heirs north, Bowdens lot East and street otherwise."1 In 1830 Travis's executor insured the property. It was occupied by Henry Edloe. The dwelling house is drawn as two stories high with two smaller buildings north with two east of these.2
On July 1830 William Edloe who had become owner of this property, gave a deed of trust to secure the ownership:
[July 13, 1830]
Charles L Winfield, Marshal of the Superior Court of Chancery for the Williamsburg District
to
William Edloe… that whereas by a decree of the superior Court of Chancery for the Wmsburg District, in a cause there in depending between Henry Edloe and Elizabeth his wife, & the sd Edloe gdn of Virgg Catherine & Julia Travis,3 infants, the sd Catherine & Julia by Th: O. Cogbill their guardian assigned defts the sd Chs L. Wingfield as marshal aforesaid, is directed to make sale of the houses & Lots, in the City of Wmsburg, described in a certain deed of bargain & sale, from Robert Andrews & Mary his wife--to Champion Travis, bearing date the 6th day of October 1797; and also a Certain other deed from George Jackson, James Moir & Wm T. Galt, Commrs appointed by a decree of the Ct of Hustings for the City of Wmsburg, to Champion Travis, both of record in the County Court of James City, at which Sale, the sd Wm Edloe became the purchaser at the price of $700… The said Lots of ground lying in the City of Wmsburg, with all the Houses & Appurtenances thereon." (Recd Hus: Ct.)4
Deed of Trust-dated 13 July 1830- To Secure payt of bond for $350 with H. Edloe seq [and others] payable 1 Jany 1831, & $350 payable 1 Jany 1832- Conveying the Lots as above.5
Williamsburg Land Tax records for 1830 list William Edloe as owner of "1 lot--$1000; lot & buildings $1150. The property belonged to Saml Travis 9 decd."1
Insurance policies again lend light as to this property. In 1838 William Edloe insured his buildings thus: "My building on my own lot-now occupied by Henry Edloe situated between the lot of Bowdens estate on the East, Turners lot on the North and streets West and South…"2 The dwelling is 70' x 16' with wing 20' x 10' north; an office smokehouse and kitchen on western street line with two kitchens and outhouse on Turner line and a dairy and smokehouse west of dwelling to rear.
In 1839 Reverend Scervant Jones,3 a Baptist minister, became owner: "1 lot--$1000; lot and buildings $1150 via William Edloe & the heirs of Henry Edloe."4
Jones held the property until ca. 1843. Business Account of George W. Southall, Williamsburg lawyer, for 1843 indicates that Jones's house was sold under a trust deed. (Southall Papers, William & Mary College Archives) The Land Tax records give this data about Jones's transfer to the Eastern Asylum: "This property has been conveyed to the Eastern Asylum, but as it does not appear on the list of transfers, the Comms presume that the deed was not recorded in same. Both lots5 in same predicament."6 The Lunatic Asylum is listed in the Land Tax records for 1845 "via Scervant Jones."
In 1846 the Asylum insured the property thus: "…the Building of the Institution now occupied by the Superintendent of the same, situated between the lands of Scervant Jones on the North, and streets on the South and 10 and West in the county of James City…"1 There are three small wooden buildings to the east-back of dwelling with two small buildings (office and dwelling) bordering upon the western cross street.
In 1853 and in 1860 the Asylum insured these buildings again. In both policies, the dwelling was occupied by the superintendent. No dimensions are given of the buildings. (See policies in Illustration #3). 2
For over a hundred years the Eastern Lunatic Hospital has owned this lot on which there was a dwelling occupied by the superintendent. In 1929, Williamsburg Restoration moved the house from its original location to one on Duke of Gloucester Street across from the Palace Green (Lots 159). Recently the old Travis house was moved to Francis Street near the hospital-until decision can be made as to its final situation.
The original site now has a brick building (of recent year's) in which the superintendent of the hospital lives.
Mrs. Victoria M. Lee in writing of Williamsburg as she recalled it during the Civil War period, has this description of the "Travis House":
The Travis House, a long, frame, building with a gambrel roof stood on the northeast corner of Francis and Henry Streets, Dr. Galt, Superintendent of the Eastern State Hospital, made his home there.3
Mr. John S. Charles, another old citizen of Williamsburg, described the "Travis House" as he remembered it during the War Between the States period:
On the square bounded by the Duke of Gloucester, Nassau, Francis and Henry Streets… is the dutch-roof house at S.W. corner of the square and known as the Old Superintendent's House. This house is in a good state of preservation and was occupied by Dr. John M. Galt, who was Superintendent of the Eastern Lunatic Asylum 11 when the War began. It is said to have been built by Mr. Travis, but now belongs to the State of Virginia.1
Footnotes
Illustration #1
FROM FRENCHMAN'S MAP 1782?
Illustration #2
| 1782 | Robert Andrews | 2 lots | £ 2 | |
| 1786 | Robert Andrews | 2 lots | 3 | |
| 1787 | Robert Andrews | 2 lots | 16.10.- | |
| 1789 | Robert Andrews | 2 lots | 11.-.- | |
| 1796 | Robert Andrews | 2 lots | 25 | |
| 1797 | Robert Andrews | 2 lots | 11.-.- | |
| 1798 | Champion Travis | 2 lots | $ 40 | |
| 1804 | Champion Travis | 2 lots | 60 | |
| 1810 | Champion Travis | 2 lots | 80 | |
| Champion Travis | 1 lot | 30 | Via Robert Travis | |
| 1811 | Samuel Travis | 3 lots | 110 | |
| 1812 | Champion Travis est | 3 lots | 110 | |
| 1820 | Samuel Travis | 1 lot ---$ 300 | 200 | added for bldgs. Heretofore charged to the Estate of Champion Travis. |
| 1 lot --- 1150 | 1000 | Heretofore charged to the Estate of Champion Travis. | ||
| 1830 | William Edloe | 1 lot --- 1150 | 1000 | The property belonged to Saml |
| 1 lot --- 300 | 200 | Travis decd. | ||
| 1839 | Scervant Jones | 1 lot --- 1150 | 1000 | via William Edloe & the heirs of Henry Edloe |
| 1 lot --- 300 | 200 | Ditto | ||
| 1843 | Scervant Jones | 1 lot --- 1150 | 1000 | This property has been conveyed to the Eastern Asylum, but as it does not appear on the list of transfers, the Commspresume that the deed was not recorded in same. Both lots in same predicament. |
| 1845 | Lunatic Asylum | 1 lot --- 1500 | 1200 | via Scervant Jones |
| 1 lot --- 300 | 200 | via Scervant Jones |
1845-1851 property listed under "Lunatic Asylum"; then Ro: McCandlish [trustee]
| 1782- | Robert Andrews |
| 1797-1810 | Champion Travis |
| 1811-1821 | Samuel Travis |
| 1822-1830 | Samuel Travis' estate |
| 1811-1823 | Robert B. Travis |
Illustration #3
Mutual Assurance Society Policy #186 Robert Andrews of Williamsburg April 21, 1796I the underwritten Robert Andrews residing at Williamsburg in the county of James City do hereby declare for Assurance in the Mutual Assurance Society against Fire on Buildings…
My wooden Buildings on France Street at Williamsburg now occupied by Rucksbey Roberts situated between the Lot of Wm Piggot and Henry Street in the county of James City…
I the underwritten Champion Travis residing at Williamsburg in the county of James City do hereby declare for assurance in the Mutual Assurance Society against fire…my two buildings on Francis and Henry Streets now occupied by myself situated between the lot of Mary Charlton (formerly Piggots) and Henry street and the lot of James Moir in the county of James City…
| The dwelling house Marked A at | $2666 2/3 |
| The Smoke house B at | 150 |
| $2816 2/3 |
Samuel Travis of Williamsburg
June 21, 1815
I the underwritten Samuel Travis residing at Williamsburg in the county of James City do hereby declare for assurance in the Mutual Assurance Society…my buildings on a street in Williamsburg dividing them from the Lunatick Hospital and now occupied by myself situated between John Bowdens lot on the East and Thomas Turner on the North in the county of James City
| The Dwelling Marked | A at | $2000 |
| The Smoke House | B at | 100 |
| $2100 |
Samuel Travis exor, Jesse Cole, of Williamsburg
April 8, 1823
I the underwritten Jesse Cole Exor of Samuel Travis residing at Williamsburg in the county of James City do hereby declare for Assurance in the Mutual Assurance Society against fire…the buildings on Samuel Travis' land now occupied by Robert B Travis situated between lots of Thomas Turners heirs north, Bowdens lot East, and street otherwise in the county of James City…
| The Dwelling Marked | A at | $1667 |
| The Smoke house | B at | 67 |
| $1734 |
Mutual Assurance Society Policy #7583 revaluation of building declared for Assurance by Jesse Cole Exor of Samuel Travis as per. Declaration No. 5020
Jesse Cole, exor of Samuel Travis, [Williamsburg]
May 20, 1830
We, the underwritten Robert Anderson Special Agent, and Thomas Sands and William M. Moody Appraisers, do hereby certify, that we have viewed and revalued the Building heretofore declared for Assurance, in the Mutual Assurance Society against fire…That the said Building is at present owned by the heirs of Samuel Travis and now occupied by Henry Edloe residing at Williamsburg and elsewhere That it is situated on a street on the South dividing it from the lot of the Lunatic Hospital--on the west by another street--on the east by Bowdens, and North by Turners, lots in the county of James City…
| The Dwelling Marked | A at | $2200 |
| $2200 |
Mutual Assurance Society Policy #10736 revaluation of building formerly declared for assurance by Samuel Travis per declaration No. 7583
William Edloe of Williamsburg
January 6, 1838
I the underwritten William Edloe residing at Williamsburg in the county of James City do hereby declare for the Assurance in the Mutual Assurance Society against Fire…My building on my own lot-now occupied by Henry Edloe situated between the lot of Bowdens estate on the East, Turners lot on the North and streets West and South in the county of James City and City of Williamsburg…
| The Dwelling Marked | A at | $2500 |
| $2500 |
Mutual Assurance Society Policy #14,390 revaluation of building formerly declared for assurance by William Edloe & per Declaration No. 10736
October 27, 1846
I the underwritten President and Directors of the Eastern Asylum for the Maintenance and Cure of Insane Persons residing at Williamsburg in the county of do hereby declare for Assurance…the Building of the Institution now occupied by the Superintendent of the same, situated between the lands of Scervant Jones on the North, and streets on the South and West in the county of James City…
| The Dwelling Marked | A at | $2500 |
| $2500 |
Mutual Assurance Society Policy #17640 revaluation of building declared for Assurance by The President & Directors of the Eastern Asylum for the maintenance and Cure of Insane persons as per Declaration No 14390
Sept. 24, 1853
We, the underwritten Robert Anderson Special Agent, and John A Deneufville and William S. Peachy Appraisers, do hereby certify that we have viewed and revalued the Building heretofore declared for Assurance in the Mutual Assurance Society against Fire…That the said Building is at present owned by the Institution and is occupied by the Superintendant residing at Williamsburg That it is situated on the land of the Institution in Williamsburg on streets South and west and Scervant Jones lot on the North…
| The Dwelling Marked | A at | $2500 |
| $2500 |
Mutual Assurance Society Policy #21330 revaluation of building declared for Assurance by The President & directors of the Eastern Asylum for the Maintenance and Cure of Insane persons as per Declaration No. 17640
December 31, 1860
We, the underwritten Walker W. Vest & Parkes Slater Appraisers do hereby certify that we have viewed and revalued the Building heretofore declared for Assurance, in the Mutual Assurance Society against Fire…That the said Building is at present owned by The Institution and is occupied by the Superintendant residing at Williamsburg That it is situated on the land of the Institution--between the lot of Charles C. P. Waller on the North and a Street on the South in the said City of Williamsburg and in the county of James City…
| The Dwelling Marked | A at | $2500 |
| $2500 |
Illustration #4
Ms Ledger Humphrey HarwoodB p. 134
| The Reverend Robert Andrews | Dr | |||
| 1780 | d | |||
| May | 22 | To 12 days work of my People Moveing House a 2/-old price | £ 1. 4.- | |
| 30 | To 6200 bricks a 27/6 Mo: 100 bushs of lime a 9d & 11 days labour a 2/ | 13. 7.6 | ||
| To Building Chimney 65/ & underpining House 20/ | 4. 5.- | |||
| June | 1 | To 2 bushs of lime 1/6 & A bushel of Hair 1/6 & 2 days labour a 2/ | -. 7.- | |
| To Repairing Larthing & plastering 15/ | -.15.- | |||
| 8 | To Whitewashing 2 Rooms a 3/9 & do Closets in D. House 3/9-- | -.11.3 | ||
| 1783 | The Above Account is to be paid att or for one | £20. 4.9 | ||
| th | The present Depreciation £2000 | |||
| May | 14 | To 5 bushls of Lime a 1/ | -. 5.- | |
| To Repairing Plastering 5/ & 1 Days labour 3/ & hair 6/ | -. 8.6 | |||
| To whitewashing 1 Room & a 2 passage a 3/ | -.15.- | |||
| th | To Do 3 Rooms a 3/ & 4 Closets a 1/6 | -.15.- | ||
| 21 | ||||
| £22. 7.8 | ||||
| The Reverend Robert Andrews | Dr | ||
| 1785 | th | ||
| Januay | 5 | To 220 bricks 6/ & 4 bushels of lime a 1/ & lats work 3/ | £ -.13.- |
| To laying an Harth 2/6 & setting up a Grate 7/6 | -.10.- | ||
| To setting up a Grate (up stairs) 3/6 | -. 3.6 | ||
| Decemr | 9 | To 2 bushels of Mortar 2/ & pinting Chimney 3/ | -. 5.- |
| 1786 | |||
| Januy | 24 | To 5 bushels of lime 5/ & 350 Bricks a 3/ & 1 days lar 2/6-- | -.18.- |
| To underpining 2 sides to Smokehouse, building Well hole & working over plates 10/ | -.10.- | ||
| May | 6 | To 750 Bricks a 3/ pr C & 16 bushels of lime a 1/ | 1.18.6 |
| To underpining Smoke-house 12/ | -.12.- | ||
| To repairing plastering in House 5/9 & hair 9d | -. 5.9 | ||
| To 2 days of labourers work 5/ | -. 5.- | ||
| 14 | To White-washing 2 passages 9/ & do Ceiling & Closet 4/6 | -.13.6 | |
| 1787 | |||
| June | 27 | To 24 bushels of lime a 1/ & 664 bricks 20/ | 2. 4.- |
| To 3 ½ days labour a 2/6 & hair 1/ | -.10.9 | ||
| To underpining porch 10/ | -.10.- | ||
| To lathing & plastering 20 yds in shead a 6d | -.10.- | ||
| To re-building steps to Cellar 12/ | -.12.- | ||
| To do Jambs of Chimney 2/6 | -. 2.6 | ||
| Octor | 8 | To 6 bushels of lime 6/ & 150 Bricks 4/6 | -.10.6 |
| To setting up a Grate 7/6 & repairing Cellar Wall 2/6 | -.15.- | ||
| 1788 | |||
| To labours work 3/6 | -. 3.6 | ||
| May | 9 | To lime & Repairing plastering 2/ ¾ bus Whtwash 1/6 | -. 3.6 |
| To wht washing 3 Cealing a 2/6 & 1 Room & 2 passages a 4/6-- | 1. 1.- | ||
| 1789 | |||
| Sept | 15 | To lime 1/6--6- bricks 2/ mendg yr back & layg an Hearth 3/- | -. 6.6 |
| 1790 | |||
| Jan | 26 | To cash to ball | -. 1.6 |
| £14. -.- |
Illustration #5
TRAVIS FAMILY
ROBERT ANDREWS
Robert Andrews, Episcopal minister, was the son of Moses Andrews of Pennsylvania, and a great-grandson of John Andrews who emigrated in 1654 from Leicestershire, England, to Maryland. He was educated at a College in Philadelphia, and was tutor for several years in the family of Mann Page, of "Rosewell" in Virginia. He went to England for ordination. He was professor of moral philosophy in William and Mary College, 1779; and was transferred to the mathematical chair in 1784.
In 1781 he was private secretary to General Nelson. In 1788 he represented Williamsburg in the state convention. In 1798 he was a member of the legislature and voted against the celebrated resolutions of Mr. Madison. He served with President Madison of William and Mary College on a commission to define the Virginia and Pennsylvania line.
Andrews was a member of the Botetourt Chapter of Free Masons of Williamsburg. He served as chaplain during the Revolutionary War. Later he was president of the Dismal Swamp Company.
He married twice: first in 1775 to Elizabeth Ballard, daughter of Robert Ballard, clerk of Princess Anne county court. Their children were: Robert and Elizabeth, twins who never married; Anne married William Randolph of "Wilton"; Catherine married Joseph B. Wilkinson, and John. Dr. Andrews married the second time in 1795 to Mary Blair, daughter of Judge John Blair of Williamsburg. She was born in 1758 and died in 1820 with no issue.
He died in Williamsburg in 1804.
LOTS: Andrews' ownership of Lots I & K are discussed in this house history. In 1796 he sold these and moved across the street to the John Blair property which he continued to own until his death. His widow and heirs held this property until 1846.
(See: House Histories of these lots).
Sources in compilation of the above data:
- Virginia Historical Magazine, vols. 24 & 29
- William and Mary Quarterly, series 1, vols. 4, 5, 6 & 7
- Tyler's Encyclopedia of Virginia Biography, vol. I, p. 171
- George Southall Papers, William and Mary College
- Virginia Gazette and Weekly Advertiser, Nicolson, ed.,
- Swem's Virginia Historical Index March 28, 1795.
REVEREND WILLIAM BLAND
A Virginian of the large Bland family. Student at William and Mary College, 1758-63. Ordained, 1767. Licensed for Virginia, June 24, 1767. Married Elizabeth, daughter of Reverend William Yates, Minister of James City Parish, probably from his ordination to about 1777 or thereabouts. Protested against American Episcopate. Represented Warwick Parish in Convention of 1785, and Elizabeth City in 1786. In 1789-90, claimed to be rector of St. Paul's, Norfolk, but the Convention did not sustain him and his factional vestry. Continued, however, to preach in Norfolk, and finally got possession of St. Paul's Church. Intemperate. (Meade, pasim; Tyler, Cradle of the Republic, 148; Colonial Churches, 73) Loyal to American cause in the Revolution.
(Goodwin's The Colonial Church In Virginia, p. 251)REVEREND SCERVANT JONES
1785_____1854
Scervant Jones, son of John Jones Sr. and Mary Hubbard Jones, of Warwick county Virginia, was born in 1785 and died in Williamsburg April 3, 1854. He married twice: (1) Anne Timson Buckner of York County who was born in 1787; married in 1805 and died in 1849. He married (2) a Mrs. Pollard. No issue by either marriage.
It seems that in 1815 Scervant Jones bought that tract in York county known as "Bellefield" from William M. Waller and Elizabeth Waller, that it came from William M. Waller and Lucy, the wife of Thomas Massie as the only children of William Waller deceased … and also a grist mill thereon. There was some connection between the Wallers and Jones. Dr. Lyon Tyler seemed to think Jones' sister married William Waller. If this is true, Waller must have had two wives.
In early life he practiced law in James City county and represented that county in the state legislature. He did not commence preaching until advanced in life.
In 1839 Jones moved into Williamsburg having bought the house now known as the "Travis House" (Lots I & K) from William Edloe. The next year Jones bought Lots 41 & 42 to the north of the Travis Lot and facing upon Duke of Gloucester Street. He sold the Travis lot in 1846 to the Eastern Lunatic Asylum. He kept Lots 41 & 42 until his death in 1854.
Jones seemed to become involved financially in the period 1838-1846. In 1838 he gave a deed of trust on the Burwell's Mill tract and the King's Creek tract. In 1842 he gave a deed of trust to Moreau Bowers to secure Philip C. L. Burwell for Burwell's Mill and "also, a lot of land in Wmsburg at the corner of the street in front of the Hospital and of a cross street leading to the College landing which lot of land was conveyed to the said Jones by and which formerly was the residence of Henry Edloe Also a lot of land in the City of Williamsburg adjoining the one just mentioned and known as Turner's lot lying at the corner of Main street and of the cross street leading to the College Landing with all the estray of the said Jones in the property hereby conveyed …" George W. Southall held a second mortgage on the latter property.
College students roomed with Scervant Jones from 1834-1848.
In 1849 his wife died. Jones wrote this epitaph for her tombstone in Bruton Parish churchyard:
Here lie all that the grave can claim of
Mrs. ANN TIMSON JONES.
Consort of the
Rev. SCERVANT JONES.
Born 1 Sept. 1787,
Married 26 Dec. 1805
2. Baptised 3 Mar. 1822
Died 6 June 1849.If woman, ever yet did well;
If woman, ever did excell;
If woman, Husband ere adored;
If woman, ever lov'd the Lord;
If ever Faith and Hope and Love,
In Human Flesh did live and move;
If all the graces ere did meet,
In her in her they were complete.My Ann, my all my Angel Wife,
My dearest one my love my life,
I cannot sigh or say farewell,
But where thou dwellest, I will dwell.
Dr. Tyler wrote: "Rev. Scervant Jones, minister of the Baptist congregation which met in the powder magazine, was a singular mixture of piety, simplicity, humor and business shrewdness. Many anecdotes are related of him … It is said that the slab which marked her grave was brought to Williamsburg on the top of the coach in which he and his second wife sat, as they returned from their wedding."
James B. Taylor writing in Virginia Baptist Ministers (1859) had this to say about Scervant Jones:
"An intimate friend, who knew him well, gives the following recollections of his ministry. 'He had charge of the Baptist Church in Williamsburg for several years before he went there to live. He was then residing at his farm called King's Creek, about seven miles from Williamsburg. He had also charge, for many years, of a Baptist congregation which met at an old church, (formerly Episcopal) in York County called Kiskiak Church, vulgarly called "Cheesecake." Both of these charges he continued until his death. A year or two before this event, he set on foot the design of erecting a house of worship for the Baptists in Williamsburg, they having for many years used for that purpose, by the permission of the town authorities, a well-known ante-revolutionary public building, devoted originally to the purposes of a powder magazine, which was too small for the convenient assembling of those who came to worship. Mr. Jones' purpose, in consequence of his failing health, was not consummated until after his death. He had succeeded by zealous efforts, in collecting several hundred dollars in Williamsburg and elsewhere for this object, and went so far as to have the cornerstone laid … This devoted servant of Christ died April 25th, 1854, aged seventy.'"
The Virginia Gazette, published in Williamsburg by Thomas Martin, issue of April 27, 1854 carried a notice of Scervant Jones' funeral. The May 4, 1854 carried tributes of respect to him. (2 columns). The first notice stated that Jones had been pastor of the Williamsburg Baptist Church for the last nineteen years. He accepted no pay for his services. On 3. May 18, 1854, The Virginia Gazette (Williamsburg) gave notice that "the Funeral Sermon of the late Rev'd SCERVANT JONES, will be preached by Dr. R. B. C. Howell at the Baptist church in this city, on Tuesday the 23d inst., at 11 o(clock, a.m. Dr. Howell will also preach in the same church on Wednesday, the 24th instant." He was buried in Bruton Parish Churchyard beside his first wife.
- Virginia Gazette, November 17, 1854.
- Virginia Gazette, April 27, 1854.
- Virginia Gazette, May 4, 1854; May 18th, 1854.
- The Record of Bruton Parish Church by Goodwin, pp. 117-118 (Rich: 1941)
- Williamsburg The Old Colonial Capital, by Lyon G. Tyler, pp. 264-266 (Rich: 1907).
- York County records: Deeds 12 (1834-1840) pp. 291, 333.
Deeds 13 (1840-1843) p. 263 Deeds 14 (1843-1849) pp. 34, 123, 239.
Deeds 8 (1809-1820) pp. 377-378.
Land Tax, Williamsburg
Personal Property Tax, Williamsburg - Mutual Assurance Policies
- Virginia Baptist Ministers by James B. Taylor, p. 438 (Phila: 1859).
The Virginia Gazette, Williamsburg, 1854:The funeral of the Rev. Scervant Jones will take place at his residence this (Thursday) afternoon, at half past 3 o'clock.--The friends of the family and the public generally are respectfully invited to attend.
--April 27, page 2, col. 3.TRIBUTE OF RESPECT
At a regular Church meeting of the ZION BAPTIST CHURCH in Williamsburg on the first day of May, A.D. 1854. On motion, Brother JOHNSON SANDS was chosen Moderator.
On motion, the following preamble and resolutions were unanimously adopted:
WHEREAS, it has pleased an All-wise Providence, to afflict our beloved Pastor, (the Rev'd SCERVANT JONES) for several months past, and finally to have closed his career on Tuesday, the 25th ultimo, who for 19 years officiated as Pastor of the Church without charge to its members, and who, when occasion presented itself, exhibited not only a willingness, but anxiety to entertain largely and bountifully those who visited us, and at all times, thereby relieving the members here from much expense, whose course of Pastorship had for its sole object the prosperity of its churches, and who during the last few years had by his own exertion, obtained a subscription of $ 5000 to erect a new Baptist meeting house in this place, but was not permitted to see his highest anticipation realized. He leaves behind him an interesting family and many friends, to mourn his loss with us.
Be it therefore,
Resolved, 1st. That we deeply lament the loss of our much loved Pastor, who so long "went in and out before us" "breaking to us the bread of life." Yet we mourn not as those without hope, for his life, was a life, of usefulness to the Church here and elsewhere. That he was permitted to live to a good old age, being in his 70th year when he died. It may be truly said of him: --He has finished his course, he has kept the faith, and henceforth there remaineth for him a crown of eternal life, and his works follow him.
Resolved, 2nd. That we highly appreciate goodness, kindness, and generosity of heart which induced brother Jones to have officiated for us as Pastor so long free of charge to the church and congregation.
Resolved, 3rd. That in the death of Brother Jones, the church has lost a most efficient Pastor and member, his family a kind husband, father and master--this community a most estimable citizen, and education a devoted friend and liberal patron.
Resolved, 4th. That we deeply sympathize with sister Jones and her family in this bereavement, but she and they have the same blissful hope "that our loss is his gain," that we have, and we pray God to give her and them grace to bear up and hope under this trial of deep affliction.
5.Resolved, 5th. That in token of respect for our beloved Pastor, our pulpit be hung with mourning for 30 days.
Resolved, 6th. That the Clerk be requested to furnish the bereaved family with a copy of this preamble and resolutions, and a copy be sent to the Williamsburg Gazette and Religious Herald for publication.
Signed by order of the Church,
W. H. YERBY, Clerk.
--May 4, p. 3, col. 3.--May 4, 1854, p. 3, cols. 3-4. [The Virginia Gazette, Williamsburg.]I. O. O. F.
At a special meeting of HAMILTON LODGE, No. 20, I. O. O. F. Williamsburg, held at the Lodge room, on Thursday, April 27th, 1854. Brother W. Y. Peyton, proposed the following preamble and resolutions, which were unanimously adopted:
WHEREAS, it has pleased Almighty God, in his All-wise dispensation, to remove from our Fraternity, and from the cares and troubles incident to a transitory existence, our beloved brother, the Rev'd Scervant Jones, and whereas, we after an intimate acquaintance with the deceased for many years, duly appreciate his many virtues, and deeply feel the sad loss occasioned by his death.
Therefore,
Resolved, 1st. That in the death of brother Jones, the church, the community and Odd-Fellowship, have lost a faithful and denoted friend.
Resolved, 2nd. That as a minister of the gospel, we reverenced him, as a christian, we honored him, as a citizen, we respected him, and as a brother, we loved him.
Resolved, 3rd. That as a patron of learning, a friend of virtue, and a member of the social circle, his loss will be deeply felt, and that few, like him, possessed those rare accomplishments, which so warmly endeared him to his friends and acquaintances.
Resolved, 4th. That we deeply sympathize with his bereaved family in their affliction, and humbly hope that this dispensation of an overruling Providence, may be borne with christian fortitude and meekness.
Resolved, 5th. That as a token of regard for the deceased, our Lodge-room be clothed in mourning, and that the brothers wear the usual badge of mourning for the space of thirty days.
Resolved, 6th. That a copy of these proceedings be sent to the family of our deceased brother, and also to the Williamsburg Gazette and 6. Religious Herald, for publication.
J. BUNTING, Secretary.
CHAMPION TRAVIS
Champion Travis, son of Colonel Edward Champion Travis, was a member of the conventions of 1775 and 1776, colonel of the state regiment in 1775, naval commissioner in 1776, justice and sheriff of James City county. He married Elizabeth Boush, of Norfolk, [in 1772].
(Tyler's Virginia Biography, I, p. 344)EDWARD CHAMPION TRAVIS
He was a descendant of Edward Travis (Q.V.) He owned a large part of Jamestown Island, and was burgess for the same from 1752 to 1765 as well as colonel of the James City militia. He married Susanna Hutchings, daughter of Colonel Joseph Hutchings, of Norfolk county. He was born in 1721 and died in August, 1770; father of Colonel Champion Travis. (Tyler's Virginia Biography, I, p. 344)
The Travis family were represented in the colonial Assembly of Virginia from 1643 to 1776. (See: Journals of the House of Burgesses covering this period.) They represented Jamestown Island where they owned large acreage for many years. Jamestown was controlled by the Travis or Ambler families, politically, for over a hundred years. It was similar to the rotten boroughs of England.