The Virginia Gazette

Today in the 1770s: October 26

WILLIAMSBURG, 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 throught the land. The houses are in good repair and som of them but lately built. . . . ELIZABETH DEANE

Virginia Gazette (Pinkney) October 26, 1775
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About this entry:

Elkanah Deane the Irish coachmaker whose clients included Governor Dunmore and Robert Carter, operated a successful coachmaking business from 1772 until his death in 1775. Like many tradesmen, he fell into financial trouble when his customers failed to pay him on time, leaving his wife to collect his debts as well as sell his real estate property. She wisely mentioned the fenced-in lots, pasture, and availability of water in advertising the houses and lots. Nevertheless, she was unable to find a buyer and rented the property to another coachmaker who continued the business on the site.

Sources: CWRR Deane House

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