Colonial Williamsburg Digital Library

LOCATION:

Colonial Lots 329-332 lie on the western side of Palace Street between Bruton Parish Church and the Governor's Palace. On late eighteenth and early nineteenth century plats of Williamsburg they are designated by numbers as above with "Deane" thereon. See: Tylers adaptation of the College Map (1791?) opposite page 1 of the report.

IN SUMMARY:

The four lots now known as the "Elkanah Deane House & Shop" are situated on Palace street adjoining the property known as the "Carter-Saunders House".

In 1720 two of the four lots, 331 & 332, were granted by the City of Williamsburg trustees to John Holloway. There were no buildings thereon. A gap follows in the title. A later deed (1761) indicates that John Chiswell had been the owner prior to Dr. William Carter. Carter held the property until 1772 when he conveyed to Elkanah Deane, coachmaker, for a consideration of £ 700. Prior to Carter's sale he had mortgaged the property in 1767. Instead of two lots being designated, there were four. Research has not determined the date when the other two lots came into Carter's ownership. There had been an encroachment in 1761 thereabouts upon Dr. Carter's property by Dr. McKenzie, owner of the lots north. Deane advertised in the local newspaper that he was established on Palace street, ready to carry on "the COACH-MAKING TRADE in all its different Branches... Having two or three spare Rooms he would be glad to accommodate Gentlemen with private Lodgings.—He will also take two Apprentices, who can be well recommended..." Numerous notices appeared in the Virginia Gazette by Deane from 1772 to his death in 1775, which called the attention of the public to his extensive coachmakers business. Following his death Mrs. Elizabeth Deane, widow, advertised for sale, his houses and lots "pleasantly situated in Palace street, in this city. There is a well of good water in the lot... a fine garden and pasture at the back... The houses are in good repair, and some of them but lately built." Also, for sale at public auction "the HOUSEHOLD and KITCHEN FURNITURE, a large quantity of coachmakers, joiners, and blacksmiths TOOLS..." The house and lot was not sold, however. In November, 1775 Mrs. Deane was advertising the property for sale or rent. By December, 1775 Mrs. Deane was renting the shop to Edward Roberts, saddler and harness maker, and John Howard, coach painter. (They may have been there prior to Deane's death). Early in 1776 William Halliday, coachmaker, was established at Deane's shop. It is probable that Howard and Roberts continued there also. In 1777 another coach painter, Campbell Thomson, was at Deane's shop along with Samuel A. Bell, coachmaker.

The Frenchman's Map of Williamsburg (1782) shows a large rectangular house on the southeast corner of the lots with five small outhouses located thereon.

Mrs. Deane was dead by October, 1784. Her estate continued to own the property. In 1789 her estate is charged in the Land Tax lists with "4 lots...£22.10.-." In 1806 an insurance policy on the Skipwith property south, described it as "situated between the Wythe House (Skipwith was owner then) and the Saunders House (located north)." As the Deane property lay between the Wythe House and the Saunders House, one would infer that the Deane House had disappeared. Mrs. Deane's estate continued to own the property until 1850 when Robert Saunders, owner of the "Carter-Saunders House" to the north, became owner of the four lots. On the Bucktrout Map (1807) the four lots are numbered "329, 330, 331, 332" and "Dean". Tyler's adaptation of the College Map (1791?) has the same identifications.

Saunders or his family continued to own the property from this date (1850) until 1872 when by legal arrangement with William and Mary College, Mrs. Saunders was allowed to have a part of Saunders' lots. The part given Mrs. Saunders as her dower right was the corner lot (332) which had "a new wood dwelling and a small kitchen thereon." At her death in 1886 the property fell to her daughter, Roberta Page Saunders. Miss Saunders the same year conveyed to Barnett Jones. The Jones family were owners until 1903 when it became the property of Alice Mary Bishop. Several other owners came in before 1928 when the property was sold to Dr. W. A. R. Goodwin representing Williamsburg Restoration. Further details to title can be found in the body of the report to follow.

PHOTOSTAT COPY OF THE WILLIAMSBURG PLAT IN "WILLIAMSBURG, THE OLD COLONIAL CAPITOL" BY LYON G. TYLER

LOCATION:

The four lots now known as the "Elkanah Deane House & Shop" are situated on Palace street adjoining the property known as the "Carter-Saunders House." On late eighteenth century and early nineteenth century plats of Williamsburg, the lots are designated as "Dean" and are numbered "329, 330, 331 and 332." See: map on opposite page. (Tyler's adaptation of the College Map)

HISTORY:

Two of the four lots in this study were granted by the city trustees to John Holloway in 1720. These lots were numbered 331 and 332. The deed follows:

[July 12, 1720]

[Trustees of Williamsburg
to John Holloway¹ of York County
Consideration: 30 shillings current money of Virginia]

" THIS INDENTURE made the Twelfth day of July in the Sixth year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord George... in the year of our Lord God one thousand Seven hundred & Twenty BETWEEN the Feoffees or Trustees for the Land appropriated for the building & erecting the City of Williamsburgh of the one part & John Holloway of the County of York Gentⁿ of the other part WITNESSETH that whereas the s^d John Holloway by one Lease to him by the s^d Feoffees or Trustees bearing date the day before the date of these presents is in actual & peacable possession of the premisses herein after granted to the interest that by virtue of the s^d Lease and of the Statute for transferring uses into possession he may the better be enabled to accept a Conveyance & Release of the Reversion & inheritance thereof to him & his heirs for ever the s^d Feoffees or Trustees for divers good Causes & considerations them thereunto moving but more especially for and in Consideration of the Sum of Thirty Shillings Current Money of Virginia to them in hand paid fully Satisfyed & paid they do hereby acknowledge 2 HAVE Granted, bargained, Sold, Remised, Released & confirmed... under the Limitations & Reservations hereafter mentioned DO Grant, bargain ... unto the s^d John Holloway Two Lotts of Ground in the s^d City of W^msburgh designed in the Platt of the s^d City by these figures 331 & 332 with all woods thereon growing or being together with all profits Comoditys Emoluments & advantages whatsoever to the Same belonging... TO HAVE and to HOLD...unto the s^d John Holloway his heirs and Assigns for ever... That is to Say that if the s^d Jn^o Holloway his heirs or Assigns Shall not within the Space of Twenty four months next ensuing the date of these presents begin to build & finish upon each Lott of the s^d Granted premisses one good dwelling house or houses of Such dimensions & to be placed in Such manner as by one act of Assembly made at the Capitol the Twenty third day of October 1705... then it Shall & may be lawfull to & for the s^d Feoffees or Trustees & their Successors... into the s^d Granted premisses & every part thereof with the appurtenances to enter & the Same to have again as of their former state TO HAVE HOLD & ENJOY in like manner as they might otherwise have done if these presents had never been made IN WITNESS whereof John Clayton Esq^r & W^m Robertson Two of the s^d Feoffees or Trustees have hereunto Sett their hands & seals the day & year first above written
John Clayton Seal
Wil Robertson Seal¹

Signed Sealed & delivered in the presence of us.

It is apparent from the wording of the release deed above quoted that no house or houses stood upon either lot in 1720.

No record has been found which indicates the use made by John Holloway of these lots. As he owned other lots in Williamsburg-some as early as 1715², it is impossible to state that he built a house on lots 331-332 and lived thereon. In fact, there is no record of the length of Holloway's ownership.

There is a gap in the title. A deed in 1761 by William Carter to Robert Carter (to follow chronologically), states that "William Carter lately purchased from John Chiswell."³ Another deed (dated 3 1772) by Carter to Elkanah Deane (to follow chronologically), states that the "said Lots were sold and conveyed to the said William Carter by John Robinson Esquire deceased by Deed bearing date the twentieth day of July in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and fifty nine recorded in the General Court."¹ This seeming confusion as to who conveyed the property to Carter may be explained in this way. We believe that it was John Chiswell who owned the property and not John Robinson. Robinson was a son-in-law of Chiswell. In 1759, Chiswell was sent to England to show promising samples of lead ore which had been discovered along the New River, Virginia. It may be that while he was absent, John Robinson, his son-in-law, attended to the legal part of selling Chiswell's property on Palace Street in Williamsburg. If so, it would account for Robinson's name being in the deed to Deane. Records of the General Court were destroyed by fire during the Civil War period-, hence the confusion arising to title. Generally, such conveyances would have been recorded in York County.

William Carter's² conveyance to Robert Carter,³ follows:

[August 11, 1761]

[William Carter, Surgeon, Williamsburg,
to
Robert Carter, Williamsburg,
Consideration: amount not named; and 5 shillings]

" THIS INDENTURE made the eleventh day of August in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Sixty one BETWEEN William Carter of the City of Williamsburgh Surgeon of the one part and the honourable Robert Carter the said City Esquire of the other part Whereas certain Disputes and Controversies have lately arisen between the said William Carter and Robert Carter of and concerning the true 4 and just dividing Line between the Lotts of the said Robert Carter which he lately purchased of Robert Carter Nicholas Esquire and the Lotts of the said William Carter which he lately purchased of John Chiswell Gentleman the said William Carter Claiming [blur] a certain piece or parcel of Ground on Northside [blur]ne of pales of the said Robert Carter which Divides the Lotts of the said Robert Carter from the Lotts of the said William Carter from Palace Street to the West End of their said Lotts and which piece or parcel of Ground is now in the possession of the said Robert Carter Now therefore for ending and finally determining the said Disputes and Controversies This Indenture WITNESSETH that the said William Carter for the Consideration aforesaid and also for and in Consideration of the sum of five Shillings to him in hand paid by the said Robert Carter at and before the ensealing and delivery of these presents... doth... alien remise release and forever quit claim unto the said Robert Carter his Heirs and Assigns forever all the Estate Right Title... which he the said William Carter hath or might have of in and to the said piece or parcel of Ground above mentioned now being within the said Line of Pales and in the Possession of the said Robert Carter as aforesaid... IN WITNESS whereof the parties to these Presents have hereunto interchangeably set their Hands and Affixed their Seals the day and year first above Written Sealed and delivered in presence of
Wil: Carter (LS)"¹

W^m Holt
Jack Power
Tho^s Everard
Ja^s Davenport

[Recorded York County court
August 17, 1761]

In the above indenture there is a reference to "the Consideration aforesaid." This seems to imply that there was a former indenture which had named the consideration. The mention of "five shillings" seems to seal the bargain. The above indenture was not a fee simple deed as William Carter continued to live on the property and finally sold it in 1772 to Elkanah Deane, coachmaker. [To follow in the report]. A search in the York County records has failed to disclose this former agreement.

However, a letter written by Robert Carter years later (November 5, 5 1778) to Dudley Digges, a prospective buyer of Carter's lots (333-336), more clearly explains the cause of the "disputes and controversies" between the neighbors. Carter wrote:

"Doctor W^m Carter who formerly possessed the Lotts adjoining my lots complained of an Encroachment made by Doctor Mackinzie who formerly possessed my Lots, that he had put part of his Meat house on his W-C's, ground- but acknowledged that R. C. Nicholas [owner of lots 333-336 prior to Robert Carter's purchase of them] had not been informed of said trespass-that the line of Paling and the stable which R. C. N. built corresponded with said Meat house, making a due East & West line- On this information I agreed to Some Proposal, which was reduced to writing to which I refer you, not having a Copy thereof-Whoever may Purchase my Lots he to stand in my shoes, touching the agreement I made with Doctor W. C."
(Mss. Letter-Book of Robert Carter of
Nomini Hall, Chauvenet Collection, Vol. III (1775-1780) p 71; Duke University Archives-typed copy in Research Department, CWI)

Reference to an encroachment "made by Doctor Mackenzie who formerly possessed my Lots, that he had put part of his Meat house on his W-C's, ground" in the above letter, brought about a thorough search of York County records for some account of this. The only item located was on May 21, 1753, York Court, at which a suit by John Chiswell and George Gilmer, plts. against Kenneth McKenzie, deft., was dismissed as neither party appeared.¹

As it had been twenty seven years since the indenture involving the encroachment, one cannot put too much credence upon the memory of Robert Carter in this matter.

In June, 1767, William Carter mortgaged his property on Palace Street as well as some lots on the south side of Duke of Gloucester Street in order to pay debts due to Thomas Moore and others. He, mortgaged also, six slaves and his household furniture. James Carter, 6 surgeon, and John Carter, merchant, (his brothers) were his bondsmen.

The mortgage follows:

[June 27, 1767]

[William Carter, surgeon, Williamsburg
to
James Carter, surgeon, Williamsburg and
John Carter, merchant, Williamsburg]

"THIS INDENTURE made the twenty seventh day of June in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and sixth seven BETWEEN William Carter of the City of Williamsburg, Surgeon, of the one part and James Carter Surgeon and John Carter Merchant both of the said City of the other part WHEREAS the said William Carter is indebted to the said John Carter in the Sum of forty Pounds by Account to Thomas Moore of the County of King William Gent in the Sum of One hundred and thirty Pounds by Bond with the said John his security to the Estate of Captain John Tucker deceased in the SUM of One Hundred and sixty four Pounds with Interest on Bond with the said James and John his Securities to Benjamin Waller in the Sum of One hundred Pounds with Interest on Bond with the said James his Security to the fund for the relief of poor Clergyman's Widows in the Sum of Eighty Pounds with Interest on Bond with the said John his security to Thomas Hornsby in the Sum of thirty seven Pounds two Shillings with Interest by Bond and to Thomas Willings and John Jacob of London by Bond in that Sum of five hundred and seventy one Pounds five Shillings and six Pence Sterling with Interest upon four hundred and fifty three Pounds Sterling part thereof from the thirty first day of December last past NOW THIS INDENTURE WITNESSETH that for indemnifying the said James and John from their securitieships aforesaid for securing the payment of the said several Sums of Money and for and in Consideration of the Sum of five shillings by the said James and John to the said William in hand paid at or before the Sealing and delivery of these Presents the Receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged HE the said William Carter hath Granted Bargained sold Aliened and Confirmed and by these Presents DOTH Grant... unto the said James Carter and John Carter ALL those four Lotts of Ground in Palace Street in the said City whereon the said William now lives and also all that piece or parcel of Ground situate on the South side of Duke of Gloucester Street in the said City... and is part of the two Lots Purchased of the said Withers of Dudley Digges Gent and Sold by the said Withers to the said William Carter And all Houses Buildings Waies Profits Commodities Hereditaments and Appurtenances whatsoever to the same belonging and the Reversion and Reversions Remainder and Remainders thereof and also the six following Slaves, to wit... and all the Household and Kitchen Furniture Goods and Chattels of him the said William Carter particularly mentioned and described in a Schedule hereto annexed and all his Estate Right Title... and every part thereof TO HAVE AND TO HOLD... unto the said James Carter and John Carter their Heirs Executors Admors and Assigns... forever Provided always and these Presents are upon this condition 7 nevertheless [William Carter to pay off the debts to the above named parties and not to default]... it shall and may be Lawful to and for the said William Carter his Heirs and Assigns quietly & peaceably to hold and enjoy the above mortgaged Premises without the Molestation or interruption of the said James Carter and John Carter or any other Person... IN WITNESS whereof the Parties to these Presents have hereunto interchangeably set their Hands and affixed their Seals the Day and Year first above Written
William Carter (L.S.)

Sealed and Delivered
in Presence of
John Tazewell
Fred Bryan
Tho^s Everard

A Schedule of Goods &^c now in Possession of Doctor
William Carter Viz^t
1 Large Mahogany square Table
1 Round d^o Tea Table and Tea Board
1 Mahogany Desk and Book Case and 1 D^o Spice Box and Drawers
1 Mahogany Candle, & Wash Bason Stands
1 Great Arm Chair
1 Easy Chair and Pan
1 ½ doz Chairs
1 Black Walnut Desk and Book Case
2 large Looking Glasses & 1 Small d^o
1 Round & 1 square Black Walnut Table
1 Cloaths Press, & Dressing Table & Glass
4 Beds Bedsteads and Furniture
1 large and two small Pine Tables
1 Silver Soup and six Table Spoons
11 Silver Tea Spoons and Tongs
1 Silver Punch Ladle
3 China Bowls
1 Doz : Knives & d^o Forks & Doz: Stone Plates
1/2 doz: China Tea Cups & Saucers
3 pair Shovels & Tongs
1 Bowl Rack and 2 large Chests
5 Iron Pots Racks and Pot Hooks &
1 pair Shovels and Tongs and Poker
1 Doz: hard Mettal Plates & 4 Dishes & other Kitchen Furniture
4 Cows & 1 Calf and 1 Sorrel Horse.
And everything else on the Lots of the said William Carter.
WILLIAM CARTER (L.S.)"¹York County the 27^th June 1767
WITNESS

8 [Recorded York County Court
July 20, 1767]

The above quoted mortgage is extremely significant and revealing. First, it indicates that Dr. William held 4 lots¹; that he was financially involved and that his brothers had come to his aid; and lastly, it gives a list of furnishings in the house on Palace Street where Dr. Carter was living at this date (1767). The "schedule" of the furnishings, apparently, covers everything as the last line notes: "And everything else on the Lots". As only four beds with furniture are listed, it seems reasonable to assume that he could have had four bedrooms to his house. From the furniture listed, one can imagine that there was a dining room, a parlor, bedrooms in the dwelling, with a kitchen outside, and a stable for horses and cows.

About a month later, Dr. Carter's stable burned to the ground:

"WILLIAMSBURG, July 30. [1767]

Last Monday morning, early, a fire broke out in the stable of Doctor William Carter, at the foot of his lot in Palace street, which consumed it and a couple of horses, with some grain, &c. The fire had got to such a height before it was discovered that Mr. Carter, in attempting to save his horses, ran a great risk of his life, by the fire blazing out soon after he had opened the door, which made it difficult for him to gain it again, and occasioned his being very much burnt. It is not known how the fire happened. Fortunately there was little or no air stirring, which in all probability saved the adjoining houses... [There follows the editor's comments on the necessity of fire protection in the city]"²

In December, 1768, Dr. Carter offered his house and lots for sale through the Virginia Gazette:

[December 15, 1768]

"To be SOLD, on very reasonable Terms, for Cash, or on 3 or 4 Years Credit, paying Interest for the Money, THE Dwelling-House in Palace street, with four Lots of Ground, well enclosed, and in good repair, where the subscriber now lives. There is no situation in this city 9 superiour to it, for pleasantness and convenience.
WILLIAM CARTER".¹

Carter's house was not sold. Evidently, he continued to reside there until 1771 (when he moved to Gloucester County) as he offered his property, again, for sale then:

[August 29, 1771]

GLOUCESTER County, August 29, 1771.
"THE Subscriber gives this publick Notice, that he is now settled at the Plantation which belonged to the late Mrs. Batop... with an intent to practise PHYSICK AND SURGERY...
WILLIAM CARTER

He is inclined either to sell, or rent by the Year, his Dwellinghouse and Lots in Palace Street, which may be entered on by the first of October next. For the terms apply to Mr. John Carter, Merchant in Williamsburg."²

The October 17, 1771 advertisement of this property by John Carter, stated:

"To be RENTED, and may be entered on immediately, THE LODGINGS where Doctor John De Siqueyra now lives.³ Also to be sold, or rented, the DWELLINGHOUSE and LOTS in Palace Street, where Doctor William Carter lately lived. For Terms inquire of Mr. John Carter, Merchant in Williamsburg."⁴

ELKANAH DEANE, Irish coachmaker, from New York,⁵ may have been in Williamsburg prior to his acquiring and settling himself on Dr. William Carter's property in June, 1772. In August, 1771, James Cocke of Williamsburg received an acknowledgment from John Norton & Sons, London merchants, of an invoice of "Goods for Dean the Coachmaker amtg to £ 145.18.9 which are come safe to hand & to satisfaction".⁶

"Virg^a W^msburg Dec^r 3^d 1772 D^r Gentⁿ I rec^d your kind favor of the 31^st Aug^st last covering Invoice Goods for Dean the Coachmaker amt^g to £ 145.18.9 which are come safe to hand & to satisfaction...¹ [Also there was an invoice of December 3, 1771 including coachmaker's materials]
4 doz best Carvers Gauges Sorted
2 doz John Greens best Firmers
1 Good handsaw. L Tennent d^o 1 brace & Bitts 1 Turkey Stone free of flints 7 Inches long & 3 broad.
1 Book Cyphers. 1 d^o od draughts for Coaches & Chariots both of the newest fashion.
1 doz. Carver Chissels
3 doz best hair Pencils for Herald painting...
3 doz books Gold leaf
6 Electric Globes of different sizes
3 doz Carver Gouges."²

This invoice indicates that Deane was preparing in a big way to have ample tools on hand as well as materials for Herald painting and sketches of the newest fashion for coaches & chariots.

In May, and June, 1772, Deane advertised in two Williamsburg newspapers that he was then established on Palace street, ready for customers. He noted also that he had two or three spare rooms for private lodgings:

WILLIAMSBURG, June 17, 1772.

"THE Subscriber, having served a regular Apprenticeship to the noted Mr. Joseph Carncross, of the City of Dublin, COACH-MAKER, and for many Years past carried on the COACH-MAKING TRADE, in all its different Branches, in Ireland, and in New York, where he had the Honour of making a Coach, Phaeton, and Chaise, for his Excellency the Right Honourable the Earl of Dunmore,³ is now removed, with his Family⁴, from New York to Palace Street, in this City, where he proposes to make and repair all Sorts of Coaches, Landaus, Chariots, Post Chaises, Phaetons, Curricles, 11 Chaises, and Chairs, with Harness of every Sort: also Steel Springs, and Iron Work of every Kind relative to the Coach-making Trade; likewise Painting, Gilding, and Japanning. The Subscriber being determined to do all his Work in the best Manner, and on the lowest Terms, humbly hopes those Gentlemen that are pleased to employ him will pay Cash, at least for any Piece of new Work, on Delivery of the same; and will be truly thankful to every Gentleman or Lady who will employ him to repair Carriages, even if the Repairs do not exceed Half a Bit. The utmost Care, and Dispatch of Business, shall be the constant Study of the Publick's most humble Servant,
ELKANAH DEANE.

…Having two or three spare Rooms he would be glad to accommodate Gentlemen with private Lodgings.——He will also take two Apprentices, who can be well recommended and whose Friends are willing to give a Gratuity to have them accomplished in their Business."¹

Early in July, 1772, Deane was conveyed the property of Dr. William Carter's:

[July 4, 1772]

[William Carter, surgeon, Gloucester,
Rebecca, his wife
James Carter
John Carter Gentlemen
to
Elkanah Deane, coachmaker,
Consideration: 700² pounds current money of Virginia]

" THIS INDENTURE made the fourth day of July in the year of our Lord one thousand seven Hundred and seventy two BETWEEN William Carter of the County of Gloucester Surgeon and Rebecca his Wife, and James Carter, and John Carter, of the City of Williamsburg Gentlemen of the one part, and Elkanah Deane, of the same City Coachmaker, of the other part WITNESSETH that for and in consideration of Seven Hundred pounds current Money of Virginia by the said Elkanah to the said William James and John Carter in hand paid at or before the sealing and delivery of these presents... do grant bargain sell alien enfeoff and Confirm unto the said Elkanah Deane his Heirs and Assigns forever all those four Lots of Land lying and being in the City of 12 Williamsburg and Parish of Bruton County of York on the West side of Palace Street and bounded on the North by the Lots of the Honourable Robert Carter, on the West by Nassau Street on the South by Prince George Street and on the East by the said Palace Street lately in the possession of the said William Carter except a small piece or parcel thereof adjoining the Lots of the Honourable Robert Carter Esquire and conveyed him by the said William Carter by Indenture bearing date the eleventh day of August one thousand seven Hundred and sixth one, Recorded in York County Court which said Lots were sold and conveyed to the said William Carter by John Robinson Esquire deceased by Deed bearing date the twentieth day of July in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and fifty nine recorded in the General Court. And all Houses Buildings... TO HAVE & TO HOLD...forever...IN WITNESS...
William Carter L.S.
Rebecca Carter L.S.
James Carter L.S.
John Carter L.S.

Sealed and delivered In presence of
Fra^s Tomkies
John Hughes Witnesses for W^m and Rebecca Carter
Alex^r Craig
John Tazewell as to W^m & Ja^s & Jn^o Carter
William Cowan Ditto
Henry Tazewell
Tho^s Everard
Will: Russell"

¹ [Recorded July 20, 1772 York County]

The lots are not numbered in the above deed but the description is so clearly defined by adjacent property and streets that there is no doubt they are the four lots owned by William Carter. Research has failed to discover when Carter acquired the other two lots (329 and 330). These lots are to the rear (west of 331 and 332).

On July 8, 1772, Deane bought 1128 pounds of bar iron from Robert Carter through Robert Prentis, Williamsburg merchant.

"Sales of Barr-Iron rendered by M^r Rob^t Prentis [for Robert Carter] 1772 July 8 Elkanah Deane——1128 lbs." ²

On July 14, 1772, Deane gave a mortgage to John Carter to secure the price of seven hundred pounds which he had agreed to pay for the property. According to the mortgage agreement, Deane promised "to pay two hundred pounds with interest from the twenty sixth April last on or before the twenty sixth Day of October seventeen hundred and seventy three and five hundred pounds the other part there of with Interest from the said twenty sixth day of April last past and on or before the twenty sixth Day of April which shall be in the year of our Lord one thousand seven Hundred and seventy five."¹ The property was to revert to Carter in case of Deane's default in payments.

Deane must have been able to make the payments on time as the property continued in his wife's name for many years after his death. (to follow chronologically in the report.)

Sources produce nothing concerning Deane's coach business until April, 1773, when he advertised for journeymen chairmakers and apprentices:

[April 8, 1773]

"THREE or FOUR
JOURNEYMEN CHAIRMAKERS
Would meet with encouragement,
As also ONE or TWO
APPRENTICES,
By applying to ELKANAH DEANE;
Who has for SALE an Elegant
PHAETON and CHAISE."²

Deane's account with Carter during February, May and July, 1773 is given below:

"M^r Elkanah Deane Coachmaker in W^msburg
[in account with Robert Carter]

		Dr
14
1773: Feby 26	To ¼ Ton of Barr Iron but it weighed 4 1b short @ £22.10.2 pr Ton	£ 5.11.8
May 14	To 634 1b of Barr Iron @ £22.10.- pr Ton	7. 1.8
		£12.13.4"

[Settled Nov. 4, 1773]

"Elkanah Deane of W^msburg Coach-Maker

1773: July 23	[In account with Robert Carter]	Dr
	To 322 1bs Bar Iron @ 20 £.10.0 pr Ton delivered by Mrs Crawley1	£ 3. 5.0"

[Settled Nov. 4, 1773]²

In October, Deane advertised again in detail giving his qualifications, former experience, and types of work he had done:

[October 28, 1773]

"ELKANAH DEANE,
COACHMAKER,
Has for SALE a Neat
POSTCHAISE and HARNESS,
almost as good as new; also a neat single CHAIR and HARNESS; entirely new, which he will sell cheap for ready money, at his shop in Palace street: where gentlemen may be supplied with carriages and harnesses of every kind in the coach or chair way, completely finished, and agreeable to appointment. He likewise repairs carriages and harnesses, and the PAINTING BUSINESS is done in the most elegant manner, having now procured as good a hand as he has met with since his residence in America.—In my former advertisements I mentioned where I served a regular apprenticeship, namely to Mr. JOSEPH CARNCROSS, in the city of Dublin, and carried on the coach-making trade for several years at home; also, that on my coming to America, I made, in the city of New York, for his Excellency the Right Honourable the Earl of Dunmore, a coach, phaeton, and a chaise, which may now be seen by any gentleman that has an inclination. I chuse to be thus particular, as there is a certain CANADIAN, who resides near the Madhouse, and tells of his long experience in Europe, but never was one yard nearer to it than he now is, nor in his life ever saw three four wheel carriages made till within these two or three years, and the whole of his knowledge, I can venture to say, without any presumption, he gained in my shop. I return my most sincere thanks to the gentlemen and ladies of Virginia, who have favoured me with their commands, and they may be assured I will always make it my study to please." ³ [Also Nov. 11, 1773 Rind]

Robert Carter who owned "Nomini Hall," Westmoreland County, and a house in Williamsburg on Palace Street [the Carter-Saunders House], had Williamsburg craftsmen do work for him. Elkanah Deane's account was:

[November 13, 1773]

"Elkanah Deane for repairs done my Chair——£ 6.9.6."¹

Through the pages of the Virginia Gazette, Clementina Rind, ed., October 28, November 11 and 18, and December 2, 1773-, one may read the charges and countercharges of the rival coachmakers, Peter Hardy and Elkanah Deane. Hardy, a Canadian, located near the "Madhouse" had formerly worked for Deane.² He referred to Deane as "an HIBERNIAN COTTAGER" and the "PALACE STREET PUFFER." Deane survived in the city longer than Hardy.

In April, 1774, Deane advertised again giving his location as "At his shop in Palace street":

[April 7, 1774]

"ELKANAH DEANE,
COACHMAKER,
At his Shop in Palace street,
WILLIAMSBURG.

MAKES all kinds of coaches, chariots, postchaises, phaetons, curricles, chairs and chaises, with harness of every sort. Carriages of every kind are repaired, painted, and japanned, in the best manner, and on the most reasonable terms, for cash. Gentlemen or ladies residing in the country, by sending their commands to said Deane, may depend on being well used, and their commands executed with the greatest care and dispatch. He returns his unfeigned thanks to those gentlemen and ladies who have favoured him with their custom, and is determined to make it his study to please all who are kind enough to employ him.——Being in want of a few 16 more JOURNEYMEN, he will give the following prices, provided they are good hands; For every chair body, single or double, according to my directions, I will give four pounds, for every chair carriage eighteen shillings, for every pair of wheels twenty two shillings, and so in proportion for all other work. I would willingly take two or three apprentices who have been genteelly brought up, and tolerably educated; no others need apply.——Said Deane has some choice brandy, gin, rum, and several kinds of cordials; such as anniseed water, orange ditto, clove ditto, all fours, cherry brandy, and rasberry ditto; all of which he will dispose of on reasonable terms, for cash, to those who will take a quantity."¹

Deane's business seems to have continued to prosper. Another notice about a month later gives in detail the various sorts of carriages made and repaired by him with prices paid to experienced journeymen who completed a chair body, carriage and wheels. He still was in need of more apprentices:

[May 19, 1774]

" CARRIAGES of various sorts and prices to be sold by ELKANAH DEANE, coachmaker, at his shop in Palace street, Williamsburg; who makes all kinds of coaches, chariots, post chaises, phaetons, curricles, chairs, and chaises, with harness of every sort. Carriages of every kind are repaired, painted, gilded, and japanned, in the best manner, and on the most reasonable terms, for cash. Gentlemen or ladies residing in the country, by sending their commands to said Deane, may depend on being well used, and their commands executed with the greatest care and dispatch. He returns his un-feigned thanks to those gentlemen and ladies who have favoured him with their custom, and is determined to make it his study to please all who are kind enough to employ him.— Being in want of a few more JOURNEYMEN, he will give the following prices, provided they are good hands: For every chair body, single or double, according to my directions, I will give four pounds, for every chair carriage eighteen shillings, for every pair of wheels 22 shillings, and so in proportion for all other work. I would willingly take two or three apprentices who have been genteely brought up, and tolerably educated, no others need apply.- Said Deane has some choice brandy, gin, rum, and several kinds of cordials; such as anniseed water, orange ditto, clove ditto, all fours, Cherry brandy, and rasberry ditto; all of which he will dispose of on reasonable terms, for cash, to those who will take a quantity." ^[2]

By March, 1775, Deane seems to have met with some reverses or 17 "many disappointments". He announced that he is not able "to give any credit in future, unless upon bond with approved security":

"WILLIAMSBURG, March 23, 1775.

To be sold CHEAP, for CASH,
AT my shop in PALACE street, a neat new post chariot, a phaeton, and a great variety of chairs, double and single, of different forms and prices. I request those gentlemen that are indebted, to pay me in April next, that I may thereby support my credit, and be enabled to carry on my business. The many disappointments I have met with has put it out of my power to give any credit in future, unless upon bond, with approved security, to bear interest from the day the work is delivered. I return my sincere thanks to those gentlemen who have favoured me with their commands.
ELKANAH DEANE.

… Ran away the 18th instant (March) OBADIAH PURYER, a journeyman chairmaker, who engaged under a certain written agreement to serve the subscriber for one whole year, from the 29th day of August last. I do hereby forwarn all persons from employing or harbouring the said Puryer, being determined to put the law in force against him, unless he returns to his service. I suspect he may be lurking somewhere about Richmond.
E.D."¹

An examination of the York County Order Book (1774-1784) failed to disclose but two suits of Deane as plaintiff. These were for small amounts. The financial trouble which Deane seems to have run into must have come from inability to collect for work done by him. (To follow in the report).

It is of interest to see that Robert Carter who owned property toward the north (Lots 333-336) used the proximity of Deane as a means of locating the Carter property when offering it for sale, in 1774. Carter advertised thus:

[May 26, 1774]

"For SALE,
THE improved SQUARE of LOTS adjoining the lots belonging to Mr. E. DEANE, coachmaker in Palace street, Williamsburg..."²

In June, 1775, Deane wrote Mr. Pinkney, editor of one of the newspapers in Williamsburg:

[June 22, 1775]

"Mr. PINKNEY,
PLEASE to let those gentlemen know who are indebted to me 18 that unless they discharge their respective balances this meeting, their names will be inserted very shortly in all the Williamsburg papers, that the world may know how tradesmen are treated in Virginia.
ELKANAH DEANE."¹

Deane died sometime between June 22, and October 26, 1775 for on the latter date, Elizabeth Deane, his widow, advertised the "HOUSES and LOTS of the late Elkanah Deane," for sale or rent:

[October 26, 1775]

"To be SOLD or RENTED,
THE HOUSES and LOTS of the late Elkanah Deane, pleasantly situated in Palace street, in this city. There is a well of good water in the lot belonging to the dwelling-house, and a fine garden and pasture at the back of the same, all well paled in; also several springs and a run of water throughout the land. The houses are in good repair, and some of them but lately built. And on Tuesday the 7th of next month will be sold, for ready money, the HOUSHOLD [sic] and KITCHEN FURNITURE, a large quantity of coachmakers, joiners, and blacksmiths TOOLS. There are on hand, and will be sold, very cheap, for cash, an elegant PHAETON, single and double CHAIRS of several sorts, finished in the best manner. All persons indebted to the said estate are requested to make immediate payment; and all those whose accounts are not settled at the next meeting of the merchants, it is expected will give bond. Those also who have demands against it are desired Immediately to bring in their account to the subscriber, who is authorized to settle the same.
ELIZABETH DEANE." ²

Mrs. Deane gives a detailed description of the late Elkanah Deane's property though she does not name the lots by number. She notes that some of the houses thereon "are but lately built." She announced, also, that a public sale would be held on the (7th of November 1775) when "HOUSEHOLD and KITCHEN FURNITURE, a large quantity of coachmakers, joiners, and blacksmiths TOOLS" would be sold. Unfortunately, a careful search of the York County Records produced no account of this sale. An account of Mrs. Deane's notice of approaching sale of property put in Purdie's Virginia Gazette, mentions that William Page had been empowered to settle Deane's estate.

On November 4, 1775, Mrs. Deane advertised the property for sale or rent:

[November 4, 1775]

"To be SOLD or RENTED,
THE HOUSES and LOTS of the late Elkanah Deane, deceased, pleasantly situated in Palace Street. There is a Well of good Water on the Premises, an exceeding good Garden and Pasture at the Back of the Dwelling-House, all well paled in; and there are several Springs, and a Run of Water through the same. The Houses are in good Repair, and some of them but lately built. And on Tuesday the 28th of November next will be sold, for ready Money, the HOUSEHOLD and KITCHEN FURNITURE, a large Quantity of COACHMAKERS, JOINERS, and BLACKSMITHS TOOLS, belonging to the said Deceased...There are on Hand, and will be sold remarkably cheap for Cash, an elegant PHAETON, and DOUBLE and SINGLE CHAIRS of several Sorts, finished in the best Manner.
ELIZABETH DEANE, Administratrix.

N.B. All Persons indebted to the said Estate are requested to make immediate Payment, and Bonds will be expected from all who do not settle their Accounts at the meeting of the Merchants; those who have any Demands against the said Estate are desired to bring them in, properly proved.
Williamsburg, October 26, 1775."¹

On December 13, 1775 Mrs. Deane was renting the shop to Edward Roberts, a saddler and harness maker, and to John Howard, a coach painter. From the wording of their advertisements for trade, one is lead to believe that they had been there some time-perhaps, prior to Deane's death:

"WILLIAMSBURG, Dec. 13, 1775.
THE subscriber continues to carry on the business of SADDLING, CAP, and HARNESS making, at the late mr. ELKANAH DEANE'S shop, near Palace street.
EDWARD ROBERTS."²

"THE subscriber still continues to carry on the PAINTING business on COACHES, CHARIOTS, &c. at the late mr. E. DEANE'S shop, near Palace street.
JOHN HOWARD."³

On December 15th, five of Deane's slaves and "a one-horse chair, made by Mr. Deane last summer" and "a good tumbler" were advertised 20 for sale on January 8, 1776:

[December 15, 1775]

"To be SOLD before the Rawleigh door in Williamsburg, the 8th day of January next, for ready money,
FIVE Virginia born SLAVES...a genteel and fashionable mohogany bedstead complete; a one-horse chair, made by Mr. Deane last summer, with a top over it, which will carry double, and is very little worse for use; a good tumbler, the wheels tired, and was made a few months ago;..."¹

Mrs. Deane continued to rent out her late husband's shop. Roberts and Howard could have moved out as William Halliday, coachmaker, was established there early in January, 1776. It is probable that the shop was large enough for a coachmaker's shop and a harness maker and painting shop, too. Deane had advertised that he carried on the coachmakers business "in all its different Branches"-which would take in the blacksmith, harness maker and coach painting line. Halliday's notice follows:

"WILLIAMSBURG, January 6^th, 1776.
"THE subscriber begs leave to inform the publick, that he has opened the late mr. Elkanah Deane's shop near Palace street, where he intends to carry on the COACH and CHAIR making busines in its various branches.
WILLIAM HOLLIDAY." [This is the only instance of Halliday's name being spelled Holliday.]²

Halliday came to Williamsburg in 1772. He advertised in the Virginia Gazette as "WILLIAM HALLIDAY, and CO. Coachmakers, From LONG-ACRE, LONDON" and stated that he had "opened a Shop, in the Street leading to the Capitol Landing, next Door to Mr. Shepherd's, Harness Maker…" where he made "PHAETONS, DOUBLE and SINGLE CHAIRS…also Carriages neatly repaired... They will undertake all Kinds of JOINERS and CARPENTERS WORK, and HOUSE PAINTING in general."³

In December, 1776, Elizabeth Deane, widow of Elkanah Deane, made a statement in the Virginia Gazette concerning the administration of her late husband's estate:

[December 13, 1776]

"WHEREAS Elizabeth Dean, WIDOW of the late Elkanah Dean, coachmaker of the City of Williamsburg, administered to the Estate of her deceased Husband, and sold, by public Sale, to the Amount of two Hundred and forty odd Pounds of said Estate which Money was collected, and feloniously carried off, by a certain William Dean, Brother of the said Elkanah Dean, who likewise put the Books, with several Bonds and Notes, into the Hands of Mr. James Hubard, for the Recovery of such Sums: This is to forwarn all Persons concerned not to pay any Money to said Hubard, as his Receipts cannot be good against any Payments to him on Account of the Estate, the Books, Bonds, and Notes having been taken from me very much against my Will.
ELIZABETH DEAN."¹

Let us recall that the Virginia Gazette, Purdie, ed, October 27, 1775 had stated that "William Page had been empowered to settle Deane's estate." Now, we find that Elizabeth Deane, widow of the coachmaker, was or had tried to administer. A long and thorough search into York County court records (Judgments & Orders; Deeds; and Wills and Inventories) for the period 1772-1790, failed to give any information further about the settlement of Elkanah Deane's estate except a few references.² An effort was made to check William Page, James Hubard, William Deane, in York court records as a clue to Elkanah Deane's. settlement.

In 1775, Elizabeth Deane was paid cash "for Steel furnished the Public."³

Other renters of Deane's shop appeared in 1777. Campbell Thomson, a coach painter, and Samuel A. Bell, a coachmaker. Thomson has advertised in April, 1774 as a "Herald and Coach Painter at his Shop opposite 22 the new Hospital, in Williamsburg, where he carries on the Painting Business; he likewise paints all Kinds of Landscapes with Accuracy, and repairs all Kinds of Painting and Gilding in the most elegant Manner..."¹

By 1777 Thomson had moved to Mrs. Deane's shop:

[June 12, 1777]

"The subscriber having been for many years overseer of BUCKRAM and GLUE manufactory in Ireland, hereby informs the managers of the Williamsburg manufacturing society, that as the expense of erecting such a work will be but small the factory being convenient to a tan yard, that those articles may be made as cheap as they have ever been imported. If such a scheme should be adopted by the society, the subscriber will spare no trouble to instruct any one of their servants.
R. Campbell Thomson.
He may be spoke with at Mrs. Dean's shop, in Palace street."²

[July 11, 1777]

"SAMUEL A.BELL, coach-maker, begs leave to inform the publick, that he carries on his business at the shop lately occupied by Mr. Dean, in Palace street where gentlemen may have their work done in the most elegant and substantial manner, and with punctuality. He is in want of 3 or 4 good hands, to whom suitable wages will be given."³

Bell was in partnership with Edward Roberts in March, 1777. They advertised that they were "about to remove to the state of Maryland,..."⁴ Bell did not move for the above quoted notice (July 11th) stated that he was at Mr. Deane's shop in Palace street.

Deane's estate had never been settled. On November 16, 1778, York County court, the following motion was ordered to be recorded:

"On the Motion of Eliz^a Deane It is Ordered that John Tazewell John Carter and John Greenhow or any two of them do examine State and Settle an Account of the Administration of the 23 Estate of Elkanah Deane dec^d and make report to the Court."¹

Two other orders for settlement of Deane's estate were ordered;² then, there seems to be nothing in the records further.

The Frenchman's Map of Williamsburg (1782) shows a large rectangular house on the southeast corner of the lots with five small outhouses located on the lots.³

Williamsburg Land Tax records for 1782 list "Elizabeth Dean .... 4 lots .... £6 [valuation for tax purposes]."⁴ See: Illustration #2 for tax list to 1861.

Williamsburg Personal Property Tax records for 1783 list "Elizabeth Dean as owning 1 slave and 1 cattle."⁵

By October, 1784, Elizabeth Deane had died: "Elizabeth Deane's Est. [was ordered to be settled] J. M. Galt & Humphrey Harwood, administrators."⁶

Mrs. Deane's estate continued to own the property until 1850. In 1789 the property was listed as "4lots ... £22.10.-" See: Illustration #2 for complete accounts.

In 1820 "Elizabeth Deane's Estate was charged with 1 lot—$600; sum added for buildings $400."⁷

In 1806 an insurance policy taken out by Henry Skipwith who owned the Wythe House on Palace street, describes that house as "situated 24 between the Lott of Robert Saunders¹ and the Church Yard."² As the Deane property was situated between the Wythe House and the Saunders House, one would infer that the Deane house had disappeared.^{3 or could Saunders be renting the Deane}

The Bucktrout Map (1807) indicates "Dean" on Lots 329, 330, 331 and 332. (Copy in Research Department) The Tyler adaptation of the College Map (1791?), copy opposite page 1 of the report, has the same identifications.

The lot towards the north of the Deane lots, now known as "the Carter-Saunders" property, had been acquired in 1801 by Robert Saunders, lawyer. Saunders died in 1835 leaving his three lots to his son, Robert Saunders, professor of mathematics at William and Mary College at this time. In 1850 the Land Tax records show that Robert Saunders, Jr. had acquired "1 lot with buildings $600 From Jn^o E. Pierce in 1849." As Elizabeth Dean's Estate is not charged with "1 house and lot $600" after 1850-, it seems reasonable to believe that Saunders got the Deane lot and that the county clerk was slow in recording this sale. From this date to the death of Saunders in 1867, the entire square bounded by Palace Street east, Prince George Street south, Nassau Street west and Scotland Street north-was owned by Robert Saunders, Jr.

Saunders' will (dated July 20, 1848; codicil (dated May 10, 1849)-both were probated and recorded on May 3, 1869. He bequeathed his wife, Lucy Burwell Saunders, all of his property excepting his house and lot in Williamsburg wherein his aunt —— Saunders, widow of Uncle John, lived and died. This property he willed to his cousins, Mary and Sarah Saunders.⁴

In August, 1869 Mrs. Saunders, Widow, renounced the provisions and codicil of the will.¹

Saunders and wife in 1867 had given a deed of trust to the College for "The house and lot in Williamsburg, constituting the present residence of the said Saunders... to secure the College $2500." This refers to the residence, and lot which now embraced the Deane lot.²

A deed-in lieu of dower- to Mrs. Lucy Saunders part of the property of Robert Saunders, deceased, was conveyed by the President and Masters of William and Mary, on November 14, 1872. The property was described as follows:

"Commencing at the southeast corner of the said lot running north 64 feet, by the line fence on the west side of Palace Green, thence west in a straight line back to the lot of Robert H. Armistead, thence south along said Armistead's line of fence to Prince George street, and thence east along said street to the beginning, together with the new wood dwelling and small kitchen thereon."^{meaning that the Deane house was gone?3}

In July, 1870 a Report of the Faculty of Visitors of William and Mary College disclosed the fact that the Saunders property (or a part of it) had become College property by way of a mortgage:

"... It is necessary that the Grammar School be removed from the College Grounds... The Palace Lot, containing from 4 to 5 acres, belongs to the College, and affords an admirable site for the School... while the capacious dwelling on the adjoining lot which belonged to the Estate of the late Robert Saunders, but was recently-purchased by the College is admirably suitable for the residence of the Master, and the Boarding House of the boys. A convenient school house large enough to accommodate 100 boys 40' by 60' can be erected for about 1500 Dollars.... The dower right of M^rs Saunders, to the property, the house & lot, bought by the College, in virtue of which she agrees to retain a portion of the lot at valuation, in fee simple, the excess of her dower over the value of the lot to be expended by the College in constructing a small dwelling on the portion she retains-."⁴

In July, 1871 a Report of the Board of Visitors stated:

"... Since your last meeting, July 1870, a commodious brick building, 62' x 43', for the Grammar and Matty School has been erected on the foundation of the Colonial Palace, and furnished in the most approved style at a cost of about $4300 00; and a dwelling for M^rs Saunders in payment of her right of Dower in the House and Lot... purchased by the College, at a cost of 400 Dolls... The House and Lot thus purchased, with the School House and Palace Lot... nearly 10 acres, may now be assigned to the School, and the College thus relieved of most of its debt, amounting to 8400 Dolls. to the Matty School. This is the nett sum given by the English Court of Chancery to the College, in trust, for the establishment of the School..."¹

The small house was built for Mrs. Saunders on what appears to be the Deane part of Saunders' property.

The part conveyed to Mrs. Saunders by the College was further designated as "commencing at the southeast corner of said lot (being the northwest corner of the intersection of Palace and Prince George Streets) and running north 64 feet by the line of fence on the west side of Palace Green, thence west ... to the lot of Robert H. Armistead, thence south along the side of Armistead's line to Prince George Street, and thence east along said street to the beginning. This deed reserves to the College the right to remove the barn then on the portion of the lot conveyed to Mrs. Saunders."²

Mrs. Saunders' will, dated December 11, 1879; probated January 11, 1886, bequeathed "to her daughter, Roberta Page Saunders, the house and lot adjoining the old homestead..."³

In July, 1886 Roberta Page Saunders and her brother Robert P. 27 Saunders, conveyed to Barnett Jones: consideration $500 the house and lot situate on the Palace Green in the City of Williamsburg, Virginia, at the southwest intersection of Prince George and Palace Streets, and bounded on the north by the Presbyterian Church property,¹ and being the same property conveyed to Lucy B. Page Saunders, by deed dated November 14, 1872.¹ In 1889 Jones acquired the back portion of the lot of the Presbyterian Church.³ At his death Jones' property fell to his wife, Margaret S. Jones⁴ and at her death in 1897, to her three sons: Edward B., Richard B, and Carl Walker Jones.⁵ In 1903 Carl Jones conveyed to Alice Mary Bishop.⁶ In 1910 the lot was conveyed by the Bishops to trustees of the Presbyterian Church: "lot at the corner of Palace Green and Prince George Street to a depth of 145 feet on Prince George Street."⁷ It must have been a deed of trust as the Bishops in 1919 conveyed to Frank G. Linekin.⁸ Linekin in 1919 conveyed to Merritt W. Foster: "lot fronting 100 feet on Prince George Street beginning at point 145 feet west of Palace Green.⁹ From Agnes Dixon Foster in 1928 the property was sold to W. A. R. Goodwin representing Williamsburg Restoration.¹⁰

Further details of title can be found in the Accounting Department files, Colonial Williamsburg, Incorporated.

Mr. John S. Charles writing in 1929, recalled Williamsburg as he remembered it during the Civil War period (1861). He had this to say about the property: 28

" The only dwelling on the square bounded by Scotland, Nassau, Prince George and Palace streets was the Saunders house, with its numerous outhouses, such as kitchen, servant's quarters, etc. This house presented then very much the same appearance that it does today, with its double front porch supported by white columns built of brick. This was the hospitable home of `Bob Saunders', once president of the College of William and Mary, and professor of mathematics. He was for many years mayor of this city. He was widely known and highly esteemed. He owned many slaves and an extensive plantation on York River. He died not long after the War and was buried in the garden of his home under a big weeping willow tree where now can be seen the tomb stone that marks his final resting place. Nearly on the site of the present Presbyterian Church, there was a big barn and carriage house and to the westward of it, up to recent years, was a small wooden house, used as the coachman's abode. Mr. Saunders owned the entire square at the northeast corner of which was burying ground for the colored."¹

We can see that Mr. Charles was describing the Carter-Saunders House in detail.

Another old citizen of Williamsburg during the Civil War period, Mrs. Vandergrift, stated that "On the site of the old Presbyterian church was a large frame barn, part of the Saunders property."²

There are no insurance policies available on this property.

FROM FRENCHMAN'S MAP 1782?

Illustration #2

Illustration #3

Illustration #4