Brafferton Hall and Kitchen Architectural Report Block 16 Building 1 Lot 00ARCHITECTURAL REPORT
BRAFFERTON HALL
Block 16, Building 1
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Library Research Report Series - 1420
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Library
Williamsburg, Virginia
1990
ARCHITECTURAL REPORT
BRAFFERTON HALL
Block 16, Building 1
Brafferton Hall, built in 1723, having, in the intervening years, undergone only slight modifications, was restored in 1931, 1932 by the Williamsburg Holding Corporation, under the direction of Perry, Shaw and Hepburn, Architects.
Restoration was started December 2, 1931
Restoration was completed June 7, 1932
The measured drawings were made by J. E. Fauber
The working drawings were made by
Milton L. Grigg
J. E. Fauber
George Campbell
The working drawings were checked by Walter Macomber
This report was prepared by Milton L. Grigg, March 15, 1932 and given its present form by A. Lawrence Kocher and Howard Dearstyne October 4, 1950.
BRAFFERTON HALL AND KITCHEN
Block 16
ARCHITECTURAL REPORT
| HOUSE: | Brafferton Hall |
|---|---|
| RECORD BY WHOM: | Milton L. Grigg |
| LOCATION: | College of William and Mary |
| DATE OF RECORD: | March 15, 1932 |
| DATE OF TYPING: | May 13, 1946 |
EXTERIOR
GENERAL NOTES:
References:
- Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. 32, p. 254
- William and Mary Quarterly, Vol. 1, series 1, p. 218.
- William and Mary Quarterly, Vol. 8, series 2, p. 261.
- Humphrey Harwood's Ledger, p. 16.
- Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. 29, p. 257.
- Letters from Virginia, Maxwell, W., p. 124-131.
- William and Mary Quarterly, Vol. 8, series 2, p. 262.
- Archeological Photographs - files Perry, Shaw, and Hepburn.
- Bodleian Engraving.
- Jones Collection Photograph.
- Frenchman's Map.
- Rochambeau Map.
- Mounted color samples taken from building - office of Perry, Shaw, and Hepburn.
In general, the restoration of the structure was begun on December second, nineteen thirty-ones and the building completed on June seventh, nineteen thirty-two. The work embraced certain minor changes in plan on the third floor to more adequately suit it to the needs of the College. The entire framing of the building is new. The existing framing being removed due to its decayed conditions was replaced with new to match in size and arrangement the old structure. Where necessary for the safety of the structure, steel girders were placed, but in general, the framing system is as in the original structure.
| N 1030 | N 1317 | N 1336 | N 1355 |
| N 1031 | N 1318 | N 1337 | N 1356 |
| N 1032 | N 1319 | N 1338 | |
| N 1034 | N 1320 | N 1339 | |
| N 1035 | N 1321 | N 1340 | |
| N 1036 | N 1322 | N 1341 | |
| N 1037 | N 1323 | N 1342 | |
| N 1038 | N 1324 | N 1343 | |
| N 1039 | N 1325 | N 1344 | |
| N 1307 | N 1326 | N 1345 | |
| N 1308 | N 1327 | N 1346 | |
| N 1309 | N 1328 | N 1347 | |
| N 1310 | N 1329 | N 1348 | |
| N 1311 | N 1330 | N 1349 | |
| N 1312 | N 1331 | N 1350 | |
| N 1313 | N 1332 | N 1351 | |
| N 1314 | N 1333 | N 1352 | |
| N 1315 | N 1334 | N 1353 | |
| N 1316 | N 1335 | N 1354 |
NORTH ELEVATION.
SHINGLES: Ludowici-Celeadon Tiles are used for roofing. These were applied during the restoration of the building as a fire preventative. These are made to simulate aged wood shingles in color and texture.
DORMER WINDOWS: Three new dormers. Dormers existing prior to the restoration of the building were not original to the period of the restoration. The sizes of the new dormers were determined by framing members which were existing. The design was copied from the President's House dormers which were of the same period.
That the dormers were not original in the house was shown by the manner in which the framing had been cut, the fact that there was originally no third floor, and that the third floor was unfinished. Dormers were replaced in the restoration of the building since they were shown on the Bodleian engraving of the College Group, and were necessary for the utilization of the third floor.
CORNICE: The main cornice was reused, same being replaced with new portions exactly reproducing the old in those places where the existing was damaged.
GUTTER AND LEADER: Modern gutters and leaders existing on the building were removed. These were not replaced, but brick gutters were installed around the building for drainage.
WALL SURFACE: Brick wall surfaces are original except for minor patches as listed below.
- 1. Basement window near west corner blocked up as not original.
- 4
- 2.Vent under first floor window to west of door filled in, as not original.
- 3.Minor repainting.
PORCH: Stone entrance steps were made new. These follow fragments of old foundation as excavated and match in material, texture, joining and detail the remains of the steps found at the south entrance door.
FRONT DOOR: The door, door frame and trim are new. The original had been removed prior to the restoration of the building. In design these were inspired by the Wythe House entrance.
The hood over the entrance door is new and follows in size the original hood, marks of which were found on the brick wall. In design, it was inspired by the ancient hood on the north entrance to the President's House.
WINDOWS: All original window frames, sash, and trim had disappeared. These were all made new and follow in design the ancient windows in the President's House. The interior treatment of the windows was dictated by existing ancient work which was found in the windows in the north east room on the first floor.
SHUTTERS: Shutters found on the building were modern and so were removed in the restoration. There being no local precedent for exterior shutters on a building of this character, no shutters were included in the restoration.
BASEMENT WALL: Original except for minor patches as noted under Wall Surfaces.
5CHIMNEYS: The chimney caps have been rebuilt from a height approximately ten courses above. the ridge and carried to the height and following the detail shown in the old photograph of the building (from the Jones Collection). (Photograph referred to from Druary Jones, Esq. of Williamsburg).
BARGE BOARDS (END BOARDS) CORNER BOARDS: None.
GENERAL NOTES:
SOUTH ELEVATION.
SHINGLES: See North Elevation.
DORMER WINDOWS: Ditto.
CORNICE: Ditto.
GUTTER AND LEADER: Ditto.
WALL SURFACE: Original except for minor patch work which consisted of repairs to the arch over the entrance door; repairs to the arch over the east window, first floor; removal and replacing with new brick of modern patches under the sills of the two east windows on the first floor; blocking up of modern basement window near west end.
PORCH: The entrance steps are built on the remains of the ancient (and assumed original) steps as excavated. The two lowest risers and treads are ancient. The work above these is new to match the ancient in every respect. The original grade has been restored on this elevation as indicated by the entrance steps. Foot scraper is antique purchased and installed in this location.
FRONT DOOR: See North Elevation.
WINDOWS: Ditto.
SHUTTERS: Ditto.
BASEMENT WALL: Original except for minor patches as noted under "Wall Surfaces".
CHIMNEYS: See North Elevation.
BARGE BOARDS (END BOARDS) CORNER BOARDS: None.
GENERAL NOTES:
EAST ELEVATION.
SHINGLES: See North Elevation.
DORMER WINDOWS: Ditto.
CORNICE: Ditto.
GUTTER AND LEADER: Ditto.
WALL SURFACE: Original except for minor repairs which consisted of:
On the south window, first floor, a modern patch was removed
below the sill. The arch above this window was removed and relaid. The
arch on the north window, first floor was repainted. A modern fire escape
was removed from this elevation.
PORCH: None.
FRONT DOOR: None.
WINDOWS: See North Elevation.
SHUTTERS: Ditto.
BASEMENT WALL: Original.
CHIMNEYS: See North Elevation.
BARGE BOARDS (END BOARDS) CORNER BOARDS: None.
GENERAL NOTES: The grade on this elevation is approximately original.
WEST ELEVATION.
SHINGLES: See North Elevation.
DORMER WINDOWS: Ditto.
CORNICE: Ditto.
GUTTER AND LEADER: Ditto.
WALL SURFACE: Original except for minor patches which consisted of: arch over first floor window on north was relaid. Modern patch removed under sill of south window first floor. Brick sill of south window, second floor, repainted.
PORCH: The basement entrance of wood was restored according to evidence on the site following local colonial precedent for detail of moulding., etc.. The brick steps are new, the arch and opening original.
FRONT DOOR: None.
WINDOWS: See North Elevation.
SHUTTERS: None. See North Elevation.
BASEMENT WALL: Original. The basement grilles occupy spaces which had been bricked up in late times and were replaced according to precedent set by the same elements at Brook's Bank and Shirley.
CHIMNEYS: See North Elevation.
BARGE BOARDS (END BOARDS) CORNER BOARDS: None.
GENERAL NOTES: The original grade has been restored on this elevation. The old lightning rod which was formerly on this face of the building has been repaired and reset.
INTERIOR.
GENERAL NOTES:
The plan has been restored to its exact original state as indicated by documentary evidence and structural facts observed on the site. The only departure from the ancient plan was made in the third floor where modern necessity demanded two baths and closet space.
FLOOR: FIRST.
ROOM: HALL #1.
FLOOR: New, of antique boards secured from Norfolk, Va.
FLOOR NAILS: Reproduction of hand wrought. Face nailed.
BEAMS: New wooden joists, new steel girders.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Plaster is new placed on metal lath and ¾" furring strips to insure a dry interior.
CEILING: New plaster on metal lath.
BASEBOARD: New, matching dimensions of original as found on the marks on the walls.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: None.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: None.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): None.
CLOSETS: None.
DOOR AND TRIM: The interior of the entrance doors is simply treated, the frames being trimmed out in a manner similar to the window trim deduced from archaeological investigation in the north east room.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, ETC.): Typical of both entrance doors are: Brass reproduction locks; wrought iron reproduction hinges; one reproduction brass rim lock.
COLOR: Dark fig blue, matching colors found on old woodwork in north east room on woodwork. Walls and ceiling white to simulate whitewash found on fragments of original.plaster.
11EQUIPMENT: Steam heating, exposed radiation. Wrought iron lighting fixtures reproduced from an old Virginia design from "Colonial Lighting Fixtures".
GENERAL NOTES: Cellar stairs were erected under the main stairway. There was no evidence of these having occurred in the original building but since the condition of the building precluded finding such evidence, it might well have occurred. Numerous examples of such entrances exist, the President's House furnishing specific precedent for the stairs in this case.
12STAIRS: (NOTE: This sheet to be pinned or clipped to record sheet of room the stairs are in.) Stairs were rebuilt from first to second floor, the point of arriving at the second floor being determined by marks on the original framing members. All material, is heart yellow pine.
RISERS AND TREADS: New of new material. Tread nosing copied from that in the Blair House, Williamsburg.
NEWELL POST AND HANDRAIL: These members are new being adapted in design from those in the Freeman House, Williamsburg.
BALUSTERS: The balusters are accurate copies of antique balusters purchased in the southern part of Virginia.
STRINGER, STRING BOARD AND STRING BOARD ORNAMENT: These members are new and are copies of similar details in the Freeman House, Francis Street, Williamsburg.
CLOSED OR OPEN STRING: Closed.
LANDING, IF ANY (FLOOR, WINDOWS OR OPENINGS ON, IF ANY, POSTS, HANDRAIL AND BALUSTERS, "GALLERY BOARD"): None. See newell, handrail, and stringer above.
FLOOR: FIRST
ROOM: REFECTORY #2.
FLOOR: New of antique boards secured in Norfolk, Virginia.
FLOOR NAILS: Reproduction hand wrought. Face nailed.
BEAMS: Framing new of wood joists and steel girders.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Of plaster, new on metal lath and furring strips. No original plaster was found in this room.
CEILING: As above.
BASEBOARD: New of new wood following local colonial precedent. None of the original remained.
CHAIR RAIL: None. No evidence existed that either of these or the two following elements occurred in the original building.
CORNICE: Ditto.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: Ditto.
MANTEL: None.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: The fireplace was rested to its original form as shown by the original brickwork. The oak lintel replaces the original, marks of which were found.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): All new of new material. Stool height was determined by the brickwork. Marks of.the original trim in room #4 were followed for trim dimensions. Glass division follows that found in the Presidents House. Lower sash hung on weights.
CLOSETS: None.
DOOR AND TRIM: Door #3, dimensions determined by masonry opening. Trim determined by marks of trim on old plaster. Door design follows local traditional pattern. Doors frame, and trim new of new wood.
14METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, ETC.): One pair 12" H and L hinges. One reproduction brass rim lock.
COLOR: Woodwork, light orange tan. Plaster, white.
EQUIPMENT: Exposed steam radiation. Reproduction electric fixtures. Telephone outlets in base.
GENERAL NOTES: A recent partition which formerly divided this room into two was removed at the time of its restoration.
FLOOR: FIRST.
ROOM: LIBRARY #3.
FLOOR: New. Antique wood secured from Norfolk, Virginia.
FLOOR NAILS: Reproduction of hand wrought. Face nailed.
BEAMS: New wood joists, steel girders.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: New plaster on metal lath and furring strips.
CEILING: See Walls.
BASEBOARD: New of new wood. Follows local colonial pattern.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: None.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: The very unusual fireplace restored in this room was uncovered during the restoration and replaced according to the marks found on the brickwork. Attention is called to the dates and initials found on the plaster face of this fireplace. These were RY1763 and U. T. Hanmaw 1772. See photos of the Archaeological Work. There is no hearth, no marks of one being found on the old work adjoining.
WINDOWS: (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): See Refectory #2
CLOSETS: None.
DOOR AND TRIM: For Door #5 see Refectory #2. Door #8 might well have existed in the original building although no evidence was found for it, the partition being modern. This door is new of new material following the local colonial style.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, 16 ETC.): One pair H and L 12" reproduction hinges. One reproduction brass rim lock.
COLOR: Woodwork, orange tan. White plaster.
EQUIPMENT: Steam heat with exposed radiation is used. Reproduction lighting fixtures. Telephone outlets in baseboard.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH (CONT'D) : The seat for the oak lintle was found in the brickwork on the wall side. The pier carrying the other end of the beam was uncovered beneath the floor. Marks of the corbelled throat were found in the chimney and these gave the lines of the throat. The plaster work on the west side of the fireplace and that on the squirch arch above is original.
FLOOR: FIRST.
ROOM: HEADMASTER #4.
FLOOR: See Refectory #2.
FLOOR NAILS: Ditto.
BEAMS: Ditto.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Ditto.
CEILING: Ditto.
BASEBOARD: Ditto.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: New of new material matching the silhouette (the marks of the plaster like on the brick) of the original. Detail of the mouldings was taken from Toddsbury.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: Fireplace jambs repaired. Corbelled back was repaired with new brick and the entire opening plastered. Hearth is new of new brick matching in dimension the original hearth.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): See note on Refectory #2.
CLOSETS: None.
DOOR AND TRIM: See note on Refectory #2.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH., HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, ETC.): Ditto.
COLOR: Green woodwork as found on ancient work. Red base, as found on ancient work.. White plaster.
18EQUIPMENT: See Refectory #2.
GENERAL NOTES: When carrying on the exploratory demolition of this room, the original plaster was found under the modern plaster and furring. This showed marks of the window trim base, etc. as well as numerous paint colors. The latter were preserved in this office; the whole being carefully photographed.
FLOOR: SECOND.
ROOM: HALL #6
FLOOR: New of new H. Y. P.. Random width boards.
FLOOR NAILS: Reproduction, face nailed.
BEAMS: New wood floor joists, new steel girders to preserve structure.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: New plaster on new steel lath and furring strips.
CEILING: See above.
BASEBOARD: New of new wood following in detail the local pattern.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: None.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: None.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): Follows brick masonry opening for size. Follows second floor of the President's House for glass division and frame detail. Trim as evidenced on first floor, room #4.
CLOSETS: None.
DOOR AND TRIM: All doors follow masonry opening for size. Frame and trim detail as shown on old plaster found on door jamb #21. Door detail follows local colonial precedent.
20METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, ETC.): Doors #20, 21, 22, 23. One pair H and L 12" reproduction W1 hinges. One Reading lock #c --.
COLOR: See Hall #1.
EQUIPMENT: See Refectory #2.
GENERAL NOTES: The stair to the third floor was not originally installed. Hence in the restoration of the building a cased-in stair well was used for this, the latter being cut into the railing enclosing the first floor stair well to express this fact.
FLOOR: SECOND.
ROOM: CLASSROOM # 5.
FLOOR: See notes on Hall #6
FLOOR NAILS: Ditto.
BEAMS: Ditto.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Ditto.
CEILING: Ditto.
BASEBOARD: Ditto.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: New of new wood. Follows outline of original found on ancient brick work in chimney. Detail of mouldings taken from Toddsbury.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: Opened up and repaired with new brick. Plaster work patched out. New hearth following dimensions of old which was too damaged for further use.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): See Hall #6.
CLOSETS: None.
DOOR AND TRIM: Ditto.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, ETC.): See Hall #6
COLOR: Woodwork - green grey. White plaster.
EQUIPMENT: See Refectory #2.
GENERAL NOTES: A modern partition which divided this into two rooms was removed.
FLOOR: SECOND.
ROOM: CHAMBER #7.
FLOOR: See Hall #6.
FLOOR NAILS: Ditto.
BEAMS: Ditto.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Ditto.
CEILING: Ditto.
BASEBOARD: Ditto.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: See Room #5.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: See Room #5. Underfire repaired with original brick.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): See Room #5.
CLOSETS: None.
DOOR AND TRIM: See Hall #6. Since the partition between Room #7 and Room #8 was not original., the existence of the door in this partition is conjectural. Trim such as was used in the masonry openings was adopted as was the door.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, ETC.): See Hall #6.
COLOR: Woodwork, grey. Plasterwhite.
EQUIPMENT: See Refectory #2.
GENERAL NOTES:
FLOOR: SECOND.
ROOM: CHAMBER #8.
FLOOR: See Hall #6.
FLOOR NAILS: Ditto.
BEAMS: Ditto.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Ditto.
CEILING: Ditto.
BASEBOARD: Ditto.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: See Classroom #5.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: Ditto.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): See Hall #6.
CLOSETS: None.
DOOR AND TRIM: Ditto.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, ETC.): See Hall #6.
COLOR: Woodwork, grey. Plaster white.
EQUIPMENT: See Refectory #2.
GENERAL NOTES:
FLOOR: THIRD.
ROOM: HALL #9.
FLOOR: See Hall #6.
FLOOR NAILS: Ditto.
BEAMS: Ditto.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Ditto.
CEILING: Ditto.
BASEBOARD: Ditto.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: NONE.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: None.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): Dormers new of new material. Dimensions determined by framing of ancient dormers. Dormers found existing had ancient framing and modern trim. Structural condition required rebuilding. Glass division shown on old photograph from Jones Collection. Sash hung on spring balances.
CLOSETS: None.
DOORS AND TRIM: Locations determined by necessity for adapting third floor for modern administration use of the college. Detail of the trim as on the other floors. Doors follow original later doors in the Saunders-Dinwiddie House.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, ETC.): Doors #30, 32, 33, 34, 35, 31, 36, 37, 38, 39. One pair H and L reproduction hinges. One reproduction Reading lock.
25COLOR: See Hall #1.
EQUIPMENT: See Refectory #2.
GENERAL NOTES: The entire third floor is arranged to suit the needs of the College. The third floor was originally unfinished and was apparently opened up and dormers erected sometime before 1747.
FLOOR: SECOND.
ROOM: HALL #6.
STAIRS: (Note; this sheet to be pinned or clipped to record sheet of room the stairs are in.) See General Notes on preceding page.
RISERS AND TREADS: New of new pine.
NEWELL POST AND HANDRAIL: None.
BALUSTERS: None. Stairway is enclosed with new R. W. Beaded Boards. As in the dependway at Claremont.
STRINGER, STRING BOARD AND STRING BOARD ORNAMENT: None.
CLOSED OR OPEN STRING: Sheathed.
LANDING (IF ANY), FLOOR, WINDOWS OR OPENINGS ON, IF ANY, POSTS, HANDRAIL, BALUSTERS, GALLERY BOARD:
FLOOR: THIRD.
ROOM: ROOM #10.
FLOOR: See Hall #9.
FLOOR NAILS: Ditto.
BEAMS: Ditto.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Ditto.
CEILING: Ditto.
BASEBOARD: Ditto.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: None.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: None.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): See Hall #9.
CLOSETS: None.
DOOR AND TRIM: See Hall #9.
METAL WORK ON DOORS (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, ETC.): See Hall #9.
COLOR: Woodwork, cream; base, black. Plaster, white.
EQUIPMENT: See Refectory #2.
GENERAL NOTES: See Hall #9.
FLOOR: THIRD.
ROOM: BATH #15
FLOOR: See Bath #14.
FLOOR NAILS: Ditto.
BEAMS: Ditto.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Ditto.
CEILING: Ditto.
BASEBOARD: Ditto.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: None.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: None.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): See Hall #9.
CLOSETS: None.
DOOR AND TRIM: See Hall #9.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, ETC.): See Hall #9.
COLOR: Woodwork, cream. Walls, white.
EQUIPMENT: See Toilet #14.
GENERAL NOTES: See Hall #9.
FLOOR: THIRD.
ROOM: TOILET #14.
FLOOR: Linoleum.
FLOOR NAILS: None.
BEAMS: See Hall #9.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Ditto.
CEILING: Ditto.
BASEBOARD: Rubber stock.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: None.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: None.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): See Hall #9.
CLOSETS: None.
DOOR AND TRIM: See Hall #9.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, ETC.): Ditto.
COLOR: Woodwork, cream. Walls, white.
EQUIPMENT: Steam heat, exposed radiation, modern plumbing fixtures to fit utilitarian demands of the College.
GENERAL NOTES: See Hall #9.
FLOOR: THIRD.
ROOM: ROOM #13.
FLOOR: See Hall #9.
FLOOR NAILS: Ditto.
BEAMS: Ditto.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Ditto.
CEILING: Ditto.
BASEBOARD: Ditto.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: None.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: None.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): See Hall #9.
CLOSETS: None.
DOOR AND TRIM: Ditto.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS ETC.): See Hall #9.
COLOR: Woodwork, cream; base, black. Plaster, white.
EQUIPMENT: See Refectory #2.
GENERAL NOTES: See Hall #9.
FLOOR: THIRD.
ROOM: ROOM 12
FLOOR: See Hall #9.
FLOOR NAILS: Ditto.
BEAMS: Ditto.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Ditto.
CEILING: Ditto.
BASEBOARD: Ditto.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: None.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: None.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): See Hall #9.
CLOSETS: Installed for convenience; all materials new.
DOOR AND TRIM: See Hall #9.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS ETC.): See Hall #9.
COLOR: Woodwork gray; walls, white; base,black.
EQUIPMENT: See Refectory #2.
GENERAL NOTES: See Hall #9.
FLOOR: THIRD.
ROOM: ROOM #11.
FLOOR: See Hall #9.
FLOOR NAILS: Ditto.
BEAMS: Ditto.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Ditto.
CEILING: Ditto.
BASEBOARD: Ditto.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: None.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: None.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): See Hall #9.
CLOSETS: None.
DOOR AND TRIM: Ditto.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS ETC.): See Hall #9.
COLOR: Woodwork, grey; walls write; base, black.
EQUIPMENT: See Refectory #2.
GENERAL NOTES: See Hall #9.
BASEMENT.
The basement has been given over to mechanical needs of the structure.
The portion under the main hallway and to the west of same (under the Refectory) was the only portion originally excavated.
This basement has brick paving, a large portion of which is original. All door openings are as originally placed in dimension and lo- cation, the frames and doors being new of new wood. These follow the de- tail of those in the Wythe House. Hardware for these: reproduction 12" H and L hinges and Wl hasp.
An access door 2' x 3' was cut in the brickwork in the north- south wall to give access to the modern mechanical equipment.
See Hall #1 for basement stairs.
0UTH0USES.
(NOTE: See Outhouse sheet of Montague House in sample record. In general give approximate age of outbuilding, record-character, and its former site if moved to its restoration location from another place. If "original" on the site, record it briefly as you would a house. If new give authority or precedent for its design. If new - or moved from somewhere else - but standing on an old foundation, mention the fact and also note what formerly stood there.)
The Brafferton Hall Kitchen is the subject of a separate report.
BRAFFERTON HALL KITCHEN
COLLEGE OF WILLIAM AND MARY
(36)
| HOUSE: | Brafferton Hall Kitchen |
|---|---|
| LOCATION: | College of William and Mary |
| RECORD BY WHOM: | Milton L. Griggs |
| DATE OF RECORD: | April 5, 1932 |
| DATE OF TYPING: | May 20, 1946 |
EXTERIOR.
GENERAL NOTES:
This building conforms in plan dimensions to the foundation as excavated.
The restored structure does not occupy the foundations exactly, due to the necessity of preserving some trees which overlapped the footings. The building is therefore set four feet north of the foundations excavated. The east and west walls partially overlap and otherwise line with the old foundation.
The location of the kitchen building is shown on the various early maps in several locations. However, excavations have definitely settled its location as being 59'-5" from the west wall of Brafferton Hall, the south wall of the kitchen being four feet north of the line of the south wall of Brafferton Hall.
No information was available to lend any clue as to the architectural design of the exterior. The design is therefore conjectural, being composed of elements precedented as set forth elsewhere in this report.
NORTH ELEVATION.
SHINGLES: Ludowici Celeadon Tile shingles were installed on this roof for fireproofing. These are made to simulate wood shingles.
DORMER WINDOWS: None.
CORNICE: Of new wood. In design it is inspired by the cornice on the Tabb House near Morrison in York County.
GUTTER AND LEADER: None.
WALL SURFACE: Of new brick made locally. Laid in Flemish bond with random glazed headers. Brickwork below the ground brick water table is laid in English Bond. Window jambs and corner bricks were selected for light color.
PORCH: None. Entrance steps are of antique stones, which were found in various places about the city. These are arranged in the manner usually employed on outhouses.
FRONT DOOR: The sheathed door is copied from one in an old shop in Fluvanna County, Virginia. The door frame section is inspired by that on the office building at Claremont. The brick jambs are of selected brick, the head arch is of ground brick as in the Custis Kitchen, Williamsburg.
WINDOWS: Glass size is the traditional 8"x10". Trim detail is taken from the President's House. The brick jambs are selected brick, the arch ground.
SHUTTERS: None.
BASEMENT WALL: English bond above grade - no excavated basement.
CHIMNEYS: Built on the old chimney foundation which determines its plan dimension. Cap detail as on old chimney now a part of east building 3 (38) at Court House, Williamsburg.
BARGE BOARDS (END BOARDS) CORNER BOARDS: Of new pinewood. Precedent for design is to be found at Montpelier in Surry County, Virginia.
GENERAL NOTES: This elevation has one feature which is unique. This is the roof line following what is commonly termed the "Clipped Gable". Precedent for this is to be found at Brandon; Stratford Kitchen; The Mansion, Boiling Green, Virginia; and in numerous larger buildings.
SOUTH ELEVATION.
SHINGLES: See North Elevation.
DORMER WINDOWS: None.
CORNICE: See North Elevation.
GUTTER AND LEADER: None.
WALL SURFACE: See North Elevation.
PORCH: None.
FRONT DOOR: None.
WINDOWS: See North Elevation.
SHUTTERS: None.
BASEMENT WALL: See North Elevation.
CHIMNEYS: See North Elevation.
BARGE BOARDS (END BOARDS) CORNER BOARDS: See North Elevation.
GENERAL NOTES: See North Elevation.
EAST ELEVATION.
SHINGLES: See North Elevation.
DORMER WINDOWS: None.
CORNICE: Bone.
GUTTER AND LEADER: None.
WALL SURFACE: See North Elevation.
PORCH: None. For steps see North Elevation.
FRONT DOOR: See North Elevation.
WINDOWS: A casement window such as was found on the servant's quarters at the Henley Farm in King and Queen County, Virginia was installed for convenience. This was arranged in the wall to give the effect that the brickwork had been removed and the window installed at a later date. This fact explains the brick bond at the windows and the lack of an arch.
The grille opening installed to vent the attic space is inspired by the grille opening on the outhouses at Brandon, and the Henley Farm, King and Queen County, Virginia.
SHUTTERS: None.
BASEMENT WALL: See North Elevation.
CHIMNEYS: See North Elevation.
BARGE BOARDS (END BOARDS) CORNER BOARDS: See North Elevation.
GENERAL NOTES: See North Elevation.
WEST ELEVATION.
SHINGLES: See North Elevation.
DORMER WINDOWS: None.
CORNICE: None.
GUTTER AND LEADER: None.
WALL SURFACE: See North Elevation.
PORCH: None.
FRONT DOOR: None.
WINDOWS: None. For note on grille opening, see East Elevation.
SHUTTERS: None.
BASEMENT WALL: See North Elevation.
CHIMNEYS: See North Elevation.
BARGE BOARDS (END BOARDS) CORNER BOARDS: See North Elevation.
GENERAL NOTES: See North Elevation. Brick spatters were installed on the north and south elevations to carry the roof water from the building walls.
INTERIOR.
GENERAL NOTES:
The plan arrangement of this building is entirely conjectural save for the location of the chimney. Room arrangement was made to accommodate the present administrative use of the building by the college.
FLOOR: FIRST.
ROOM: MAIN ROOM.
FLOOR: Of new pine random width flooring.
FLOOR NAILS: New.
BEAMS: New of pine #2 x 10" - 16" o.c. spanning north and south.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: New plaster on steel lath and furring strips.
CEILING: New plaster of steel lath.
BASEBOARD: New of new wood. Following in design the local colonial pattern.
CHAIR RAIL: Plain beaded 6" stop board only as in the McCandlish House. This is of new wood.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: None.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: The fireplace has been given up to space for the safe. required by the modern use of the college. The flue was carried down and stopped off above the safe space to provide for future use as a fireplace.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): Sash detail and frame and trim follows that found in the President's House. Sash are hung on sash balances.
CLOSETS: A passage-closet was placed between this room and the small office. This was necessary for the present use of the college.
9 (44)DOOR AND TRIM: Doors and trim on the interiors of this building were copied from those in the Croker House in James City County.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, ETC.): Entrance door - one reproduction latch. One Corbin Rim lock. Reproduction 12" H and L hinges. All other doors - one reproduction latch, one pair 12" H. and L hinges.
COLOR: Woodwork and below chair rail, dark fig blue. Walls, buff. Ceiling, white.
EQUIPMENT: Pseudo-reproduction fixtures adapted for commercial use are installed for light. Steam heat with exposed radiation is used for heating.
GENERAL NOTES:
FLOOR: FIRST.
ROOM: OFFICE.
FLOOR: See Main Room.
FLOOR NAILS: Ditto.
BEAMS: Ditto.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Ditto.
CEILING: Ditto.
BASEBOARD: Ditto.
CHAIR RAIL: Ditto.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: None.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: None.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): See Main Room.
CLOSETS: Ditto.
DOOR AND TRIM: Ditto.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, ETC.): Ditto.
COLOR: Ditto.
EQUIPMENT: Ditto.
GENERAL NOTES:
FLOORS FIRST.
ROOM: TOILET.
FLOOR: See Main Room.
FLOOR NAILS: Ditto.
BEAMS: Ditto.
WALLS AND WALL COVERING: Ditto.
CEILING: Ditto.
BASEBOARD: Ditto.
CHAIR RAIL: None.
CORNICE: None.
PANELLING OR WAINSCOT: None.
MANTEL: None.
FIREPLACE AND HEARTH: None.
WINDOWS (SASH TRIM AND FRAME AND METAL WORK): Casement as in Keeling House, Princess Anne County. Modern fasteners, H hinges reproduced.
CLOSETS: None.
DOOR AND TRIM: See Main Room.
METAL WORK ON DOOR (LATCH, HINGES, DOOR KNOB, FASTENINGS, ETC.): H and L 12" reproduction hinges W.l. One thumb latch, one bolt.
COLOR: Buff plaster walls; white ceiling; dark fig blue woodwork.
EQUIPMENT: Steam heat, modern lighting fixtures, modern toilet fixtures.
GENERAL NOTES: This room added for convenience.
BRAFFERTON HALL, WILLIAM AND MARY COLLEGE
July 30, 1931
Very little is known about Brafferton Hall and the following references represent the data available to date:
"Henry Cary (1675?-1749) of Williamsburg and later of Warwick and 'Ampthill' (now of Chesterfield County) succeeded his father Henry Cary (son of Col. Miles Cary, the emigrant) in his business as contracting builder. Henry Cary the younger built (probably) the Brafferton, and (certainly) the President's House at William & Mary College . . ." (Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. 32-p. 254.)
Letter to Mr. Alderman Perry, Mercht. in London, signed by the President and 4 Masters:
Sir,
"Williamsburg, Aug. 10, 1732
"These are to advise that we have desired Mr. John Randolph's assistance in the choice of Books by my Lord Bishop of London, our Chancelour's advice, for a small library for Brafferton; and therefore to desire you to supply him with money for that business out of the Brafferton fund, not exceeding two hundred and fifty or three [16] hundred pounds, if he requires it. Take his receipts and place them to the Brafferton account.
We are
Sir
Your most humble Servants" (William & Mary College Quarterly, Vol. I, first series, p. 218)
Page 2 William & Mary College account in Humphrey Harwood's Ledger: B - p. 16Faculty Minutes, July 14, 1845.
"It was resolved that two thousand dollars, or so much thereof as shall be necessary, shall be expended in the necessary repairs of the College & its buildings. That in as much as the Faculty have already ordered the Brafferton House to be reshingled and the floor of the passage below to be repaired, that this work shall be considered as parts of such reparation, and moreover all the sashes, frames, and external woodwork of the college and such internal parts as may stand in need of it shall be painted with at least two coats of good oil paint." (William & Mary College Quarterly, Vol. 8, Second series, p. 261.)
1745
"1777 Septemb 3 - To Whitewashing 2 passages a 7/6 (Mr Brackin's or Brafeton) . . . . 0:15:0" "1778 October 22 - To Whitewashing 3 Rooms a 1/6 & 2 passages a 10/- for Mr. Bracking .2: 2:6 Novemb. 6 - To Whitewashing A Room for Mr. Brackin 7/6 . . . . . . .. . . 0: 7:6" "1779 Jany. 20 - To Contracting Gramer School Chimney & layg Harth . . . . . 4:16:0"
Letter from Robert Michie. 1797.
". . . requested him particularly to direct Moir to reserve a room from which we may calculate on his coming back - I have taken your room as its called in College and have the happiness to tell you that there is an alteration considerable in the Brafferton."
(Footnote: The Brafferton is a brick house on the Campus of William & Mary. It was built in 1723 for the use of the Indian School founded under the bequest of Hon. Robert Boyle, 1692. The funds bequeathed were invested in the Purchase of the manor of Brafferton in Yorkshire.)
(Virginia Magazine of History, Vol. 29, p. 257).
1824.
"The collegial buildings, I find, are a large house appropriated to the students, with a handsome yard in front, on either side of which is another house, nearly as large, for the use of the professors. Non of these is worth the honour of a description. . .
"the Professor now led me through the different private rooms, which I found so dark and forbidding, that I didn't wonder the tenants were not at home. The public rooms are not much better . . ."
(Maxwell, W., trans., Letters from Virginia, p. 124-131.)
Page 31845. Faculty Minutes, July 3.
"Ordered: That Mr. Saunders be a committee to have the Brafferton House shingled and the floor of the College passage below stairs repaired, and that he be empowered to draw upon the burser for the funds necessary." (William & Mary College Quarterly, Vol. 8, Second series, p. 261.)
1848. Faculty Minutes, March 4.
"Resolved: That the buildings called the President's House and Brafferton ought hereafter to be occupied by the President and one of the professors, and that a committee be appointed to inquire and report to the next meeting of the Visitors whether a dining room can be provided in the College, and in what part of it and at what cost it can be done, and at what cost suitable building for the accommodation of a steward can be erected, and if the funds of the College can justify the expenditure for these purposes." (William & Mary College Quarterly, Second series, Vol. 8, p. 261.)
1849. Faculty Minutes, July 5.
". . . the kitchen attached to the Brafferton House rebuilt, the Wells cleaned out and pumps put in them, . . . the Brafferton House and the President's House painted, as well as the palings around the front yard." (William & Mary College Quarterly, Vol. 8, Second series, p. 262.)
Harold R. Shurtleff, Director
Department of Research & Record.
ab
Report by: Helen Bullock
cc: P.S. & H., Boston and
Williamsburg.
Dr. W.A.R. Goodwin
Arthur A. Shurcliff.
Brafferton Building - No. 2
Block 16
Suggested changes:
- 1.Text, page 154 "was erected in the year 1723 from Funds contributed by the Executors" etc. to avoid the uncertainty about the phrase "endowed in the Year 1723".
- 2.The quotation in The History of the College of William and Mary, 1874, page 27 reads: to "keep at the said College so many Indian children in sickness and health, in meat, drink, washing, lodging, clothes, medicines, books and education, from the first beginning of letters till they should be ready to receive orders and be thought sufficient to be sent abroad to preach and convert the Indians, at the rate of fourteen pounds per annum for every such child, as the yearly income of the premises, subject to the deduction aforesaid should amount to".
- 3.Compare "At the Time of the War between the States it was used as the Headquarters of the Federal Provost Marshall in command of the City" and "The Brafferton was used as an office and quarters of the U.S. officer commanding the town" (Report of President Benjamin S. Ewell to Board of Visitors, July 5, 1865, quoted in Wren Building, page 152.)
- 4.Brafferton Hall now serves the College as the Faculty Club and a guest house. (Charles McCurdy, Alumni Secretary)