The Governor's Palace Historical Notes Block 20 Building 3
The Governor's Palace: Historical Notes
Department of Research
ca. 1930
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Library Research Report Series - 219
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Library
Williamsburg, Virginia
1990
THE GOVERNOR'S PALACE
HISTORICAL NOTES
Dept. of Research and Record Colonial Williamsburg, Inc.
GOVERNOR'S PALACE
Preface
For many years before the Capitol was moved from Jamestown to Williamsburg, there had been instructions to each incoming Governor directing the building of a Governor's house. It was not, however, until Governor Nott's administration, in the Session of October 1705, that the General Assembly finally passed an Act making appropriation of £ 3000, giving specifications, and appointing an overseer for the building of the house. After Nott's death, during the period from 1706 to 1710, President Edmund Jenings supervised the work for which Henry Cary was overseer.
In 1710 Alexander Spotswood came as Governor, and finding the work at a standstill, caused the passage of two Acts, one in 1710, and another in 1713, for finishing the Governor's House. It was during the years of his administration, from 1710 to 1722, that the Palace was finished and ornamented with its gardens, fish ponds, canals, and other improvements. So great a sum of money was spent that in 1718 a complaint was sent to the King, remonstrating against the "lavishing away" of the country's money.
Succeeding Governors made improvements, and accounts for repairs were paid by the Council from the two shillings revenue. In 1749, after the departure of Gooch, the Council viewed the building, and decided that extensive repairs were necessary before the arrival of another Governor. For several years the Palace was unoccupied and was evidently considerably remodeled. At this time the ball room wing was probably added. A house was bought for Dinwiddie upon his arrival in 1751, that of Dr. Kenneth McKenzie now known as the Saunder's House.
From this time there are fewer and fewer accounts for repairs. With a few exceptions, from Fauquier's administration until the Revolution, no great sums were spent on the Palace. In 1781 the Palace is described as showing signs of grandeur, but in a ruinous condition.
It is interesting to estimate the amount of money appropriated by the Assembly for building and finishing the house, and the amounts paid by the Council for repairs. From the purchase of land in 1701, until the Revolutionary War, the assembly made appropriations for building and furnishing the Palace. Using five dollars as a rate of exchange, and placing the comparative buying power of money of that time and the present day at one to five ratio, an insight can be gained to the total amount spent on the building and upkeep as follows:
iii
In addition, sums from the governor's private purse and additional sums from the revenue of 2 s. per hhd tax were expended although records of these sums are not available at the present time.
There is every reason to believe that the Palace with its adjoining offices, gardens, court-yards, park and fish ponds, must have compared favorably with other notable seats in the Colony. Travelers, even the most critical, consistently referred to the building as "neat and commodious", "the best on the continent", etc., and to the grounds as wonderfully laid out and kept.
As to furniture and furnishings, it would seem that as early as 1710, the Committee in charge ordered the best to be placed in the home of their governor, and the inventories of Fauquier, Botetourt and Dunmore, give ample evidence as to the elaborateness of its equipment and the prodigality of the life of its occupants while in the Colony. In addition to this furniture provided by the Colony and considered the "standing furniture" of the Palace, each governor brought a large collection of his own. In the late inventories some articles of furniture from each of the preceding governors are noted so that the furniture ranged in character from the "newest fashion" of Botetourt and Dunmore to some items referred to by appraisers as "old fashion'd".
The yearly "Birth-Night celebrations", with their accompanying balls and "illuminations", presented an appearance, according to Hugh Jones, equalled and surpassed only by the Court of England.
For reference, a list of governors of Virginia is given with the dates of the ruling houses of England for a corresponding period.
v
vi
vii
viii
It is concluded that according to the standards of the time, the Governor's Palace was the most elaborate seat in the Colony at the time of its construction and for many years later. Certainly the Assembly and Council used every means in their power to make it so. This view is entirely derived from the accompanying notes, and they are, of course, subject to interpretation.
ixAn explanation of the index is given on the page preceding the index.
This volume is based on the first collection of Palace notes prepared by Miss Leah James and the research staff, to which has been added the Botetourt Papers (formerly issued as a separate book); references from the Virginia Gazette, York Records, and various manuscript sources that were collected since the first book was issued.
The field workers who added the material for the revision were: Leah James, Mary F. Goodwin, Elanor S. Burr, Helen Bullock, and Carloyn R. Davidson. The accuracy and appearance of this volume is largely due to Alda Bones who typed the book. The index was prepared by Leah James and Helen Bullock.
Six copies of this book have been made and distributed as follows:
- 1. Back carbon copy - permanent file, Department of Research & Record.
- 2. Harold Shurtleff. Copy loaned to Williamsburg office and used in conferences, etc.
- 3. Dr. W. A. R. Goodwin.
- 4. and 6. Boston office; one architect's copy, one interior architect's copy.
- 5. A. A. Shurcliff, landscape architect.
Harold R. Shurtleff
, Harold R. Shurtleff, DirectorDept. of Research & Record. HR/ab 1.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
June 11, 1680 - June 22, 1699
Vol. I, page 171.
Council held at James City, Aprill the 15th 1691.
In Consideration of their Mas Instructions, It is thought fitt that it be onely proposed to this Assembly to take into Consideration the Security of the Country the Easeing the Levy per poll, and the building a house for the Govr .
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 22, page 37.
Council Papers 1698-1701.
And for yt reason we againe exhort you to use your most Endeavors that a convenient house be built for the Governour in Chief to dwell in according to his Majsties. Instructions to you in that matter.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1699
Vol. I, page 400.
At a Councill held at James City the tenth day of December, 1698.2.
His Majts Royall Instructions for the building of a House for the governour, is referred till the meeting of an Assembly.
H.R. McIlwine, ed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1699-1705 (Richmond : 1907)
Vol. II, page 42.
At a Councill held at James City Febry the 22, 1699.
. . . His Excellency was pleased to Communicate to ye Councill His Letter to ye Right Honble Lords of ye Councill of Trade and Plantations in answer of theirs to him concerning Attorneys and their Directions about a house for ye Governour-
H.R. McIlwine, ed.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1695-1702. (Richmond : n.d.)
Page 137-138.
3.An Act of Assembly May the 3d 1699.
Instructions of Lords Justices
to Gov. Nicholson.And forasmuch as his Majesty hath former given Instructions to the Governr of that his Colony concerning the Building of a House for them and the Governours of the said Colony for the time being, and hath in the meanwhile allowed unto them the usuall rent of a house where in to live, his Majesty is also gratiously pleased for the present to allow unto you the like House Rent in the same manner as unto them, but nevertheless it being necessary that a good house be forthwith built for you and the Governour of the said Colony for the time being, And it not being reasonable that his Majestye should alwaies continue to allow the said House Rent, whilst no advance is made on the other side towards the building of the said House, you are therefore accordingly to consider of the fittest place for building the same, which you are to propose the Councill and Assembly there in Order to the raiseing money for that purpose. As also to send over the Draught of such an house to his Majestye and the Commissrs for Trade and Plantations with the proposcons that shall be made for the building thereof in order to his Majestys Determination thereupon and his further Directions about the forementioned allowance for the House Rent.
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia
1698-1702
Page 146.
Monday May the 8th 1699.
Upon... Consideracon of the Report of the Committee made upon the Sixteenth parag: in the said Instruccons concerning the building a House for the Governrs of this Colony for the time being. The house agreed to the Same and accordingly.
Ordered That it be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances to report their Opinions therein-
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia
1695-1702
Page 174-5.
Monday May the 22d 1699.4.
The sixteenth paragraph of the Instructions from their Excellencies the Lords Justices of England concerning the building a house for the Governrs of this Country for the time being &c being duly weighed and considered this Committee are of Opinion that in regard there are many Pulbick Debts and other Charges and particularly that of building a Statehouse wch now lyes on the Country, the Country is not in a capacity to undertake So great a work at this time.
Va. B. T. Vol. 30, pp. 333-334
p. 109 of Virginia Manuscripts from British
Record Office &c, vol. 2, Sainsbury, Vol. II,
Part I, 1625-1715.
1699 June 28
Whitehall
Lords of Trade to Governor Nicholson - Acknowledge receipt of his letters of 4th and 27th Febry last and ... To endeavour the building a house for the Governor as the King does not think fitt to continue the former allowance of £150 per ann: to Governors for house rent. The revisal of the laws is esteemed to be highly necessary, which was etc.,
William G. illegible
Virginia Magazine of History (Richmond: illegible)
Vol. 21, page 174.
5.Council Papers 1693-1700
June the 28th 1699.You will observe by a Clause in your Instructions relating to the building of a house for your self and other successive Governours of that Colony to live in that it is thought necessary such a house be built, and that his Majsty does not think fitt to continue the former allowance of a Hundred and fifty pounds per An. to Governours for house rent. Therefore we expect to hear of your Endeavours to promote that work, and your report thereupon according to the tenour of that Clause.
Board of Trade to Nicholson.
Bruce, Philip Alexander, Virginia Plutarach
Vol. 1, page 110.
Sir Francis Nicholson-
[1700-]. . .
Although the building of a mansion for the Governor in his official capacity would be a draft on Nicholson's small salary of one thousand pounds sterling by constraining him to entertain more lavishly, nevertheless, all the weight of his approval in favor of the proposal, because such a building and the style of living which it would make necessary would increase the dignity of the Governor's position and bring the people into closer social affiliation with it be the opportunity of attending official receptions under the new roof...
[illegible notes in margin]
Public Record Office, London
C. 0. 5 #1359.
6.Letter from the Board to
Coll. Nicholson Gov. of
Virginia.
January 4, 1700.... And what you add in the 7th. Paragraph about the Governor in Chief and others living there also, we approve in like manner. And for that reason we again exhort you to use your utmost endeavours that a convenient house be built for the Governor in Chief to dwell in according to his Maj:tys Instructions to you in that matter...
Va. B. T. Vol. 31
pages 23-26
page 220, idem.
1700 Aug. 21
Whitehall.Lords of Trade to Governor Nicholson- Acknowledge his letter... His promise of advancing his Maj. revenue & hopes of being able in a year or two to build a house for his Maj. Governor very acceptable...
Ibid
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 21, page 266.
Council Papers 1698-1700
Board of Trade to Nicholson.Aug't the 21st 1700.
The Care you promise in advancing his majesties Revenue and ye hopes you express of being able in a year or two to Build a house for his Majties Governor are very acceptable things, and as we doubt not of yor endeavours therein we hope they will accordingly prove successful-
Ibid
Journal of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1695-1702
Pages 207-209.
7.An act of Assembly for Monday Decembr ye 9th 1700.
A Letter from the Lords relateing to the building of a House for the Governr of this Colony to live in
All which being read by the Clerk.
Ordered. That every of the said Lettrs lye upon the Table
Ibid.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
August 3, 1699 - April 27, 1705
Vol. II, page 117.
At a Councill holden at City of Williamsburgh December the 9th 1700.
Present
His Excellency &c
Edmund Jenings
John Lightfoot
Robert Carter EsqrsIt is the Opinion of the Councill that his Majties and the Lords Letter Concerning the Marquis Delamuce and the Settlemt of the French Refugees and all Papers Relateing to that matter, the Lords Letter Concerning the building & Erecting a house for the Goverr and the Settleing and Regulateing of all Claimes & publick debts and to see in wt State the Revenue at Present stands be Recommended to ye Consideration of the house of Burgesses.
Ibid.
Journal of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1695-1702
Page 238, 239.
9.Act of Assembly for Fryday Decembr the 27th 1700.
To the Kings Most Excellt Majestie
Wee yor Majests most Loyall and Dutifull Subjects yor Majts Council and the Burgesses of this present Genll Assembly do in all humility Begg leave to reprsent to yor Majesty That this yor Majests most antient Colony and Dominion of Virginia is at this time undr very low and needy Circumstances being ingaged in many Publick Debts and Charges That it hath already been at a very great Expence in provideing for the building A Capitol for the Seat of Genll Assemblys Courts and the Severall Offices thereto belonging, In carrying on the Revisall of the Lawes So farr as in therein proceeded in maintaining Severall Soldiers on the ffrontiers and in paying many other contingent Charges. That the Capitol will want a Considerable Sume of money more to finish it And the Revisall of 8. the Lawes not a little - That it is not knowne how long there will be a neccesity of keeping the Soldiers already rained at the ffrontiers or what occasions there may be of raising more. That the Charge of building a House for yor Majests Governr stil lyes upon us And that notwithstanding the Circumstances aforesaid to manifest our dutyfull and Loyall inclination to do as much as Wee are able for your Majesties Service Wee have this Assembly out of the imposition as it shall arise upon Liquors presented to yor Majesty the Sume of four hundrd and twenty pounds Sterling for and towards the defraying a Charge accrueing upon taking a Shipp of Pyrates the last April the same being an Extraordry and Eminent Service. So that all the ffunds appropriatd for the Support of this Government and the contingent Charges and more prticularly the Fund for building the Capitol. Revisall of the Lawes and Lessening the Levy by the Poll are quite exhausted and this yor Majests antient and great Colony will be brought undr a necessity to run in Debt for the carrying on of those Workers without a Prospect of getting Sufficient for payment in any reasonable time-
Wherefore out of a Due Sence of yor Majests princely Commiseration of all Such of them as are under Pressures and want. We do not humbly prsume to lay before yor Majesty the aforesaid Representacon of the present State and Condition of this yor Majests most antient Colony and Dominion humbly beseeching yor Majesty will be gratiously pleased in yor Princely Goodness to bestow Such a Sume out of yor Majests Quitt Rents here as yor Majesty in yor Royall Grace shall See convenient for and towards the carrying on the building of the Capitol. the payment of the future Charges which will accrue upon the Revisall of the Lawes, the building of a House for the Governr and what other contingent Charges may hereafter arise in this yor Majests Colony and Dominion upon any Extraordinary Exigence. And on our part as this Country has been alwaies ready to pay Obedience to yor Majests Commands so we have been and stil are unfeignedly Resolved to serve yor Majesty with all Loyalty and Obedience to the utmost of or poor Abilitys and to Testifye or Selves
Your Majesties Most Loyal And Obedient
SubjectsOrdered That the Committee of Proposicons and Greivances do forthwith carrye the said address to the Council for their view. That the House hath agreed to and made the Amendments therein according to the Proposicon of the Council And being returned Mr: Leigh reported they had carryed the said Address to the Council accordingly.-
Ibid.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1699-1705
Vol. II, page 131.
At a Councill held at Mr Auditor Byrds, March ye 10th 1700
The Consideration of ye Purchase of Lands Conveniently adjoining to ye Govrs house is referr'd to a fuller Councill at Williamsburgh.
Ibid.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1699-1705
Vol. II, page 137.
At a Council held at the Council Chamber April 25th 1701.
Whereas there is about fifty or sixty Acres of Land adjoyning to ye Lotts assigned in ye City of Williamsburgh for a house to be built on for ye Residence of ye Govr of this his Majtis Colony & Dominion wch Land belongs to Henry Tyler of ye County of York Gent: and he proposing to make Sale thereof at ye rate of Twenty shill per acre
Ordered yt ye same be laid out & surveyed by ye surveyr of ye County and a Purchase thereof be made to the use above-said.
Ibid.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1699-1705
Vol. II, page 182
10.At a Council held Tuesday 19th Augst 1701.
21 That you take Care that a house be Erected for ye Goverr of this Colony to make his Residence at ye aforesd City of Wmsburgh according to his most sacread Majties Royall Instructions therein given & the Instructions thereupon of the right honerble the Lds Comrs of trade and Plantations wch I now give you; And in yor whole Proceedings I pray God direct you
illegible: Nicholson
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1695-1702
Page 268
Tuesday August 26th 1701.
Mr Speaker
His Excelly intended to have Spoken to you himself but being indisposed att present hath desired us to communicate to you the Severall Propositions now Sent for your Consideration.
And afterwards he presented Severall other Papers (Vizt)...
A Plott of Sixty three Acres of Land for the Govrs house -
All which Papers were read...
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1695-1702
Page 270
11.Message of Nicholson to House of Burgesses.
An Act of Assembly Tuesday August the 26th 1701.
That you take care that a house be Erected for the Governours of this Colony to make his residence att the aforesaid city of Williamsburgh according to his most Sacred Majts Royall Instrucons therein given and the Instructions thereupon of the Rt Honble the Lords Commrs of Trade and plantations wch I now give.-
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1695-1702
Page 279.
An Act of Assembly for Wednesday Septr. the 3d 1701.
Resolved That itt is the Opinion of this house upon his Excellys one and Twentieth Proposition
That this Country; is not in a Capacity att this time to undergoe the Charge of building a house for the Governr.
Ibid.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1699-1705
Vol. II, page 183.
12.At a Council held Thursday 4th Sepr 1701.
His Excellency in Council
Whereas by an ordr of Council dated the 25th Apll 1701 it was ordered and appointed that a small Parcell of Land belonging to Mr Hen. Tilar of the County of York Gent. Adjoyned to the Lotts assigned in the City of Wmsburgh a house to be built for ye Residence of ye Govenr of this his Majties Colony and Dominion should be survey'd and lay'd out by the Surveyr of the County and purchased of ye sd Tyler at ye rate of 20 shills per acre a Survey thereof being returned whereby it appears to be sixty three acres
Ordered
That the honerble Wm. Byrd Esqr his Majties auditr pay unto the sd Henry Tyler the Sume of sixty three pounds sterling in Consideration of the aforesd Land.
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1695-1702
Page 299.
An Act of Assembly for Tuesday September the 16th 1701.
And that the Country at this time is not in A Condition to undergoe the Charge of building a House for the Governr.
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1695-1702
Page 299.
13.Tuesday September the 16th 1701.
To his Excy ffrancis Nicholson Esqr his Majests Lieut and Governr Generll of Virginia.
The humble Address of the House of Burgesses
May it please yor Excy
…
And that the Country at this time is not in a Condition to undergoe the Charge of building a House for the Governr.
Ibid.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1699-1705
Vol. II, page 197.
Thursday 25th Sepr 1701.
As to yt Part of the address Relateing to building a house for ye Govenr his Excy Considering it hath been so often passed [pressed] asks the Councils Advice whether it would not be Convt that ye paying for Land purchased of Mr Tiller whereon to build the same may not be now laid before ye house of Burgs the Council are of opinion it ought.
In the Last Clause for one hundred forty six Pounds Eight shillings and three pence his Excy Cannot agree wth the house in their opinion yt it is no Country Charge but that some way ought to be found out to sattesfy it, It is the opinion of the Council that it be Inserted to [in] ye book of claimes as also sixty three pounds paid to Mr Henry Tyler for ye Land purchased of him whereon to build a house for ye Goverr.
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1695-1702
Page 313.
14.An Act of Assembly Fryday September the 26th 1701.
I am ordered by the Council to acquaint this House that the Council do assent to the Book of Claimes Provided the Sume of One hundred Forty Six Pounds Eight Shillings and Three Pence Sterling formerly laid before this House paid by Mr Auditor Byrd for Severall Disbursements and the Sume of three acres of Land adjoyning to the City of Williamsburgh to the Lotts assigned for the Governrs House to be thereunto added.-
H.R. McIlwine, editor
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714 (Richmond : m. d.)
Vol. I, page 316.
Fryday ye 26th Sept 1701.
Ordered
That ye Clerk of ye Genll Assembly Acqt The House of Burgesses that ye Council Assent to ye Book of Claimes, Provided - - - - and the Sum of Sixty three pounds Sterl: paid Mr Henry Tyler, for Sixty Three Acres of Land Adjoyneing to ye City of Williamsburgh to ye Lots Assigned for the Governrs House to be thereunto added.
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1695-1702
Page 321. 313.
15.Friday September the 27th 1701.
A Message from the Council...
Mr. Speaker
I am ordered by the Council to acquaint this House that the Council do assent to the Book of Claims provided... the Sume of Sixty three pounds Sterling paid to Mr Henry Tyler for Sixty three acres of Land adjoyning to the City of Williamsburgh to the Lotts assigned for the Governrs House to be thereunto added-
Resolved that the House cannot agree to the Proposalls of the Council for adding the sume of Sixty three pounds Sterling to the Book of Claimes and therefore desire their Honrs will be pleased to pass the same without the said Additions-
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1695-1702
Page 321.
An Act of Assembly Saturday September the 27th 1701.
As to that part of your address relating to building a House for the Governour you must consider that by his Majests Especiall Instruccons it has been often pressed unto you - and therefore by advice of his Majts Honble Council I againe propose unto you that the sume of sixty three pound sin order thereunto be paid for the Purchase of Sixty three acres of land adjoyning to the lotts laid out in the city of Williamsburgh and to be appropriated to that use.-
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1695-1702
Page 325.
16.An Act of Assembly Monday September the 29th, 1701.
And forasmuch as we are of opinion that the Sume of Sixty three Pounds for the purchase of sixty three acres of Land adjoyning to the lands assigned in the City of Williamsburgh to build the Governrs House upon and the Sume of one hundred forty six pounds eight shillings three pence paid by Mr Auditor Byrd for several Disbursements or charges are neither of them a Country charge we pray yor Excelly will not insist further upon your Proposalls about the same but that they be defrayed out of his Majests government and the contingent charges.-
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1695-1702
Pages 326-7.
Tuesday September the 30th 1701.
A Message from his Excelly by Mr Wright
Mr Speaker
I am ordered by his Excelly to acquaint this House That his Excelly cannot be of your Opinion that the Sume of Sixty three pounds for the Purchase of Sixty three acres of land &c... is not a Country Charge for it is in his Excells Opinion that the Same is as much a Country Charge as any within the book of Claimes and therefor insist that they be some way or other Satisfyed by the Publick and if he did not do so, should judge himself guilty of Unfaithfullness to his most sacred Majestye.
Virginia Manuscripts from British Record Office &c.
Vol. 2
Sainsbury, Vol. II, part 1, pages 316-7.
17.1701/2. March 16
receivedMemorial of Col. Robt Quary to the Lords of Trade- that the Governor hath very much advanced his Maj. revenue- that he hath used all possible endeavours with the Assembly to have a Govr's house built but their continued answer is that the Country at this time is not in a condition to sustain so great a charge- so that unless some stricter commands be sent over "it is not like to be effected this many years"-...Indorsed. Recd. 16 Read 17 March 1701/2
(Va. B. T. Vol. 5 B. 46)
Calendar of State Papers, America & West Indies
1704-1705
Pages 496, 497.
Instructions to Gov. Nott
April 20, 1705.And forasmuch as an allowance of house-rent hath been made to the Governors of that Colony, we for the present allow the same unto you, but nevertheless, it not being reasonable that we should always continue the said allowance, whilst no advance is made towards the building of a House, you are therefore earnestly to recommend unto the Assembly in Our name at their first meeting after your arrival, that care be taken by them for the building of a fit and convenient house to receive you and the Governor for the time being, which may be appropriated to that use.
William and Mary Quarterly (Richmond : 1908)
1st series, vol. 16, page 13.
Williamsburg-The Old Colonial Capitol.
Three important events are identified with his [Nott's} administration: The burning of the College, in October 1705; the passage of an act, during the same month and year, for the building of a governor's house or palace;
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 130.
18.Message of Gov. Nott,
An Act of Assembly Wednesday October ye 24th 1705.
I am also by the Royal Command to Recommend Earnestly to you Gentlemen of the house of Burgesses the Building a house fit for The Reception of your Governor.
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 135.
An Act of Assembly Fryday October the 26th 1705.
Ordered: That The Consideration of That part of his Exclys Speech recommending The Building a house fitt for the Reception of The Governors be referred to The Committee of Propositions & Grievances, and That they Inspect The Journals of the former Assemblys upon that matter and Report the same with their opinions therein to the house.
Ibid.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
May 1, 1705-October 23, 1721
Vol. III, page 46.
19.…
November the 2d 1705…
His Excellency by advice of her Matys Council signed the following Warrants on the Auditor to be paid out of her Matys Revenue of two Shillings per hogshead VizTo his Excellency for House rent ending the same time thirty one pounds four shillings and Seven pence.
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 165.
An Act of Assembly Thursday November ye 22d 1705.
And upon Consideration of the Report of the said Committee made upon that part of his Exclys Speech Relating to the Building a house for the Reception of ye Governor.
The House agreed to part of the Report of the said Committee and to part Disagreed thereupon.
Resolved that it is necessary that a house be built for ye Governor.
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 168.
Address of Burgesses to Governor.
An Act of Assembly Fryday November 23rd 1705.
Wee have Likewise Resolved that it is Necessary a house be built for The Reception of her Majestys Governor here but have not as yet made any farther progress Towards it.
Calendar of State Papers, America and West Indies 1704-1705, page 738.
20.Letter of Gov. Nott to
Council of Trade
Dec. 24, 1705.…they have also resolved that a house be built for the Governor, but have not yet settled the fund for carrying it on.
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 177.
An Act of Assembly for Fryday April ye 26th 1706.
I must acquaint you since yor Last Meeting I Have received her Matys Comands (which shall be laid before you) to represent to you in ye most pressing manner the Neccessity of building a house for yor Governor, by laying Leves for that purpose without farther delay, as tending to ye honour and publiq Service of this Colony & Dominion I think Gentlemen after this there is no Occasion for argument to induce you to do what will be so agreeable to yor Queen...
Message of Nott,
Ibid.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714
Vol. 1, page 447.
21.Friday April 26th 1706.
Ordered.
That the Clerk of the General Assembly Carry to the house of Burgesses her Majties Letter recommending the building a house for the Governor wch was referred to in his Excellency's Speech.
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 180.
22.An Act of Assembly for Tuesday April ye 30th 1706.
The orders of ye day for ye house to take into consideracon his Exys speech togather, with her Matys letter recommending ye building a house for ye Governour being read.
Resolved that this house will resolve it self into a Committee of ye whole hose to take ye said Speech and Letter into consideration
Ordered That it be an instruction to ye said committee to have due consideration to all the former proceedings of this house on any matter contain'd in ye said Speech.
Then ye house resolv'd it self into ye said Committee, and after some time spent therein Mr Speaker resum'd ye chair, and Mr Robert Beverly reported from the said Committee that they had come to several resolutions, which he read in his place, and then delivered in at the Table, where the same were againe read, and agreed unto by the house, and are as follow vizt
Resolved That a duty of twenty shillings per head be laid upon Negroes imported towards defraying ye Charge of building an house for ye Governour.
Resolved that the duty of four pence per gallon be Laid on all rum and wine and one penny per gallon upon Beer and Cyder imported from all places except England.
…
Resolved that three thousand pounds Sterrl be appropriated to the building a house for ye Governour, & ye conveniencies incident thereunto.Resolved That a Bill be prepared for building ye Governour a House according to the Subject matter of the said resolves, and for appropriating so much of the two shillings per hogshead, as shall be necessary for keeping ye said house in repair, after it shall be built.
Ordered That Mr Robert Beverly, Mr Miles Cary, Mr Tayloe, Mr Hill, Mr Harrison, Mr Waters, Mr McCarty, Mr Bland... do wait upon his Excy and acquaint him with the proceedings of this house towards ye building a house for the Governour, and desire that he will be pleas'd to cause a draft of such a House as by him shall be thought most convenient to be laid before this house.
Ibid.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714, vol. 1, page 448.
Tuesday April ye 30th 1706.
A message from the house of Burgesses to his Excellency by Mr Robert Beverly and others who acquainted his Excellency that they were commanded to wait on him with the proceedings of the House of Burgesses towards building a house for the Governor, and deserved [desired] that his Excellency would be pleased to cause a draught of such a house as by him shal be thought most convenient to be laid before the House of Burgesses.
Ibid.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 181.
23.An Act of Assembly for Wednesday May ye first 1706.
Mr Robert Beverly reported yt ye persons appointed had (according to order) waited on his excy, and acquainted him with the proceedings of this house towards ye building a house for ye Governour and desired yt he would be pleased to cause a draught of such a house as by him should be thought, most convenient, to be laid before this house, and that thereupon his Excy, was pleased to say he would send an answer by a Messenger of his own.
A Written message from his Excy by Mr. Robertson, was read as followeth
Gentlemen
Yor hearty and ready compliance with what her Maty commanded me to recommend to you in relation to ye building a house for yor Governour, is such a testimony to yor Loyalty and duty to so Gracious a Queen, as will undoubtedly be very acceptable to her Maty... I have considered yor message, whereby you desire me to send you a draught of such a house, as I shall think convenient, but Gentlemen, I leave it wholy to you to give such directions therein, as you think proper,...Edw. Nott
Ordered That it be referr'd to ye Comtee of propositions and Grievances to prepare and bring in a bill for building the Governour a house according to the resolves of the house made yesterday on that matter.
H. R. McIlwine, editor
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
Vol. III, page 97. (Richmond : 1928)
[May the 22d 1706]
…
To his Excellency for half a years house rent ending the same time Seventy five pounds.
Ibid.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
Vol. 1, pages 460, 461.
24.Saturday May 25th 1706.
The House of Burgesses attending, Mr Speaker addressed himself to his Excy to this effect.
May it please yor Excellency
The House of Burgesses do humbly present to your Excellcy severl bills wch have been passed by the Council and themselves, and they pray yr assent to them.
The first is a Bill for laying an Imposition upon Liquors & Slaves, wch is designed for raising a Fund to build such a house as shal be fitt for the residence of yor Excellcy and yr Successors the Governors of this Country:
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 218.
An Act of Assembly for Saturday June the 8th 1706.
Mr Peter Beverley reported, yt ye Committee of propositions and Grievances had (according to order) prepared a bill directing ye building an house for the Governour of this Colony and dominion, which he presented to the house, and the same, being received, was read ye first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 221.
An Act of Assembly for Tuesday June 11th 1706.
A Bill Entituled an Act direction the building an house for ye Governour of this Colony and Dominion was read the second time, and some amendments being made therein, and twice read.
Ordered that the said bill with the Amendments be Engrossed
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 223.
25.An Act of Assembly for Wednesday June the 12th 1706.
An Engrossed bill Entituled an act directing the building an house for the Governour of this Colony and Dominion was read ye third time
Resolved that the bill do pass.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714
Vol, 1, page 477, 478.
Wednesday June 12th 1706.
A message from the Burgesses to the Council by Mr Peter Beverley & others who brought the following Bills Viz a bill Entituled an Act directing the building a house of the Governor of this Colony and Dominion.
-------------------
A bill Entituled an Act directing the building of a house for the Governor of this Colony & Dominion read the first time, and ordered a second reading.
-------------------
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714
Vol. 1, page 479.
26.Friday June ye 14th 1706.
A bill Entituled an Act directing the building a house for Governor of this Colony and Dominion read the second time and amended, and ordered a third reading.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 226
An Act of Assembly for Saturday June 15th 1706.
Also that the Council have agreed to the bill Entituled an act directing ye building an house for the Governor of this Colony and dominion with some amendments to which they desire the concurrence of this house
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714
Vol. 1, page 479
27.Saturday June 15th 1706.
A bill Entituled an Act directing the building a house for the Governor of this Colony and Dominion Read ye third time with ye amendments
Resolved
That ye bill with ye amendments do pass
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714
Vol. 1, page 480.
Monday June ye 17th 1706.
A message from the Burgesses to the Council by Mr Peter Beverley and others that the house had agreed to all their Honrs amendmts to the bill Entituled an act directing the building a house for the Governor of this Colony and Dominion, and had inserted them therein.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
May 1, 1705-Oct. 23, 1721
Vol. III, page 111.
28.[June ye 20th 1706.]
… An act for building a house for the Governor The Council are glad his Excellency has the opportunity of passing this Bill, being the chearfull expression of that duty and obedience the Country will always show to her Majesty.
Hening's Statutes at Large
April 1684-October 1710
Vol. III, pages 285-287.
31.[Session of October-1705]
An Act directing the building an house for the Governor of this Colony and dominion
We, her majestys most dutifull and loyall subjects, the burgesses now assembled, having taken into our serious consideration her Majesty's commands concerning the building of an house for the Governor of this her majestys colony and dominion, and how necessary it is that such an house be built without any further delay, have cheerfully and unanimously given and granted unto her most excellent majesty, the sum of three thousand pounds, to be employed, made use of and expended according to the directions of this act hereafter mentioned, and do humbly pray your excellency it may be enacted.
And be it enacted by the governor, council and burgesses, of this present general assembly, and it is hereby enacted, by the authority of the same, That an house for the residence of the governor of this colony and dominion, be with all convenient expedition erected, built, and finished upon the land bought of Henry Tyler, joyning to the City of Williamsburgh, or upon so many of the next adjacent lotts laid out for the City of Williamsburg as to the directors of the said city shall seem most fitt and convenient, or upon either or both of them, and that the said land containing sixty-three acres, and lying on the north side of the said city, together with the forementioned lotts, and the said house, and all and singular the appurtenances, shall from time to time, and at all times hereafter, be held and enjoyed by the governor or commander in chief of this dominion, for the time being, for ever to his won proper use and behoof, and shall not be applied to any other use whatsoever.
And that the said house be built of brick, fifty-four foot in length, and forty-eight foot in breadth, from inside to inside, two story high, with convenient cellars underneath, and one vault, sash windows, of sash, glass and a covering of stone slate, and that in all other respects the said house be built and finished according to the discretion of the overseer, which shall be employed by virtue of this act to take care of the same, under the direction of the governor and council.
29.And be it further enacted, That a kitchen and stable, suitable for such an house be likewise built upon the land before mentioned, according to the discretion of the said overseer, and by the direction aforesaid.
And be it further enacted, That for the more easy and better building and finishing the aforesaid house and out houses, the said overseer have full power to send for England for iron work, glass, lead, stone, slate, or any other necessarys to be made use of in or about the said buildings, and that the same be imported a the risque of the country, and also on the like risque to buy such and so many slaves, horses, carts, and other materials as in his discretion he shall think fitt, for the more expeditious and cheap carrying on the said work.
And be it further enacted, That for a supply of monys to begin, carry on and finish the aforesaid house and out houses, the said overseer shall from time to time as the occasion shall require, make application to his excellency the governor or the governor or commander in chief of this colony and dominion for the time being, who is hereby desired upon such application to issue his warrant upon the late and present treasurer of this dominion for so much money as may be wanted untill the full sum of three thousand pounds given and granted to her majesty as aforesaid, shall be fully paid out.
And be it further enacted, That the said sum of three thousand pounds shall be employed, made use of, and expended in building the house and out houses directed by this act, and the charges thereupon accruing, and to and for no other use or uses whatsoever.
And be it further enacted, That Henry Cary be appointed, and he is hereby appointed an overseer to inspect, oversee, and provide for the building aforesaid, with full power to begin, carry on, and finish the same, according to the directions of this act, and in case at any time hereafter there be a necessity of appointing a new overseer by means of death or disability of the said Henry Cary, or any other person that shall succeed him in the said employment and trust his excellency the governor or the governor or commander in chief of this colony and dominion for the time 30. being, is hereby desired on all such occasions to nominate and appoint such new overseer, and every person so appointed is hereby declared to have as full power to proceed and act in carrying on and finishing the said buildings, as the said Henry Cary, hath by virtue of this act.
And be it further enacted, That the said Henry Cary, and every other person which after him shall be appointed to be an overseer as aforesaid, shall be paid and allowed for the time of their respective service and attendance in the employment and trust aforesaid, after the rate of one hundred pounds a year.
Provided always, and be it enacted, That the said Henry Cary and every other person which after him shall be appointed to be an overseer as aforesaid, shall before his admittance into the said imployment and trust, enter into bond with one surety, of five hundred pounds sterling to our sovereign lady the queen, her heirs and successors, that he will not imbezile or convert to his own use any part of the money or materials put into his hands for carrying on the building aforesaid, but that according to the best of his skill and understanding and the trust reposed in him he will faithfully lay out all such monys in and about the uses and services for which he receives it, and also that he will lay an account of his disbursments from time to time, before the governor and councill, and before the assembly at their meeting, and make oath thereto when required.
And be it further enacted, That all such charge and expence as shall or may hereafter accrue for repairing the house and out houses directed by this act, shall be defrayed out of her majesty's revenue of two shillings per hogshead.
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 32, pages 132, 133.
[Notes to Virginia Council Journals
At the session of October 1705 the Assembly appropriated £3000 for building a house for the Governors. It was to be situated on a tract of sixty-three acres adjoining the City of Williamsburg, which had been bought from Henry Tyler, with the addition of as many lots as the directors of the City should deem fit. It was to be of brick, 54 feet in length and 48 in width, inside measurements, two stories high, with convenient cellars, one vault, sash windows of glass and with a covering of stone slate. A kitchen and stable were also to be built and Henry Cary was appointed to be "overseer of the Work".
In October 1710 the house was unfinished. The Assembly then in session voted £1560 for completing the house, kitchen and stable, and also appropriated £635 additional, directing that a court-yard of dimensions proportionate to the said house, should be laid out levelled and incompassed with a brick wall four feet high, with balustrade of wood thereupon, and that a garden 254 feet long and 154 feet wide should be laid out and levelled and encompassed by a high wall four feet high with balustrades of wood upon the said wall, and a convenient kitchen garden laid out, and enclosed with pales and an orchard and pasture ground made and surrounded by a ditch and good fence, and houses for cattle and poultry built with yards attached. £ 250 of the amount appropriated was directed to be used for the purchase of furniture.
A list of the furniture ordered has been preserved. There were to be three dozen "strong fashionable chairs', three large tables, three large looking-glasses and four chimney glasses for the lower apartments, and also '"one marble buffette or sideboard with a cistern and fountain"."
The "great room" in the second story was to be furnished with gilt leather hangings and sixteen chairs to match, two large looking glasses with the arms of the colony on them, "according to the new mode" two small tables to stand under the looking glasses, two marble tables and eight glass sconces. There were to be a large looking glass for the largest bed-chamber four chimney glasses for the other chambers, and "a great lanthorn" for the hall.
32.Rev. Hugh Jones, writing in 1723 says that the Palace (as it was called) was a "magnificent structure, finished and beautified with gates, fine gardens, walks, a fine canal, orchards, etc." "Upon birth-nights and at Balls and Assemblies, I have seen as fine an appearance, as good diversions, and as splendid entertainment as I have seen anywhere else".
Dr. Tyler gives in his "Williamsburg" (213-218) an interesting account of the "Palace". He says the house occupied by Fauquier, Botetourt, and Dunmore was much larger than the earlier one, being 74 by 68 feet. This new building was ready for occupancy in 1753. The first one was either added to or pulled down and another erected on its site. As there were no later legislative appropriations for the purpose the cost of the new building must have come from some fund under control of the Governor and Council, possibly quit rents.
Lyon G. Tyler, editor
Tyler's Magazine
Vol. 6, page 23 (Richmond : 1925)
33.[Michell, Carter, Anderson and Tyler lots in Williamsburg]
…The remaining portion of Henry Tyler's grant had been bought by the General assembly of Virginia for a seat upon which to erect the Palace of the Governor. (Hening Statutes at Large, III, 285).
Burk, John Daly
History of Virginia- (Petersburg, Va., 1805)
Vol. 2, page 329.
[1705-1706.]
"... This assembly also voted a house to be built for the Governor's residence, and laid duties to raise the money for it. But his excellency lived not to see much effected therein, being taken off by death in August 1706. In the first year of his government the college was burnt down to the ground."
Beverley, Robert
History of Virginia- London, 1722
Page 98.
[1705-1706.]
This assembly also voted a house to be built for the Governor's residence, and laid duties to raise the money for it. But his Excellency lived not to see much effected therein, being taken off by death in August 1706-
Kimball, Fiske
Domestic Architecture of the American Colonies - N.Y., 1922
Page 79.
The oldest building with a pair of offices symmetrically placed was the Governor's Palace at Williamsburg, itself built 1705-1706. They were connected with the main building by a wall, constituting a shallow forecourt in front of it...
34.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 232.
Friday June 21st, 1706.
Ordered that the Sum of one hundred and five pounds due from the said Henry Cary to the Countrey for the three Negroes sold him, and all the money arising upon the sales of the houses and material aforesaid be appropriated to the carrying on the building of the Governours house, and that he give account thereof the Next Assembly.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712 Page 232.
An Act of Assembly for Fryday June 21st 1706.
Ordered That all the materials and Utensils belonging to the Capitol which are now in the hands of ye said Henry Cary, and necessary for the carrying on ye building of the Governours House be appropriated to that use, and that all the other materials in his hands belonging to the Capitol be sold.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714
Vol. 1, page 485.
35.Friday June 21st 1706.
Ordered
That all the Materials and Utensils belonging to the Capitol which are now in the hands of the said Henry Cary & necessary for ye Carrying on the building of the Governors house be appropriated to that use, and all ye other Materials in his hands belonging to ye Capitol be sold.
William P. Palmer, editor.
Calendar of Virginia State Papers and other Manuscripts
Vol. 1, page LV (Richmond : 1875)
[Introduction]
An account current of Mr. Henry Cary for the expences of burning bricks, shows the cost at which this sort of work was then done, and proves that the Governor's mansion for the building of which they were made, had been constructed of bricks made in the colony.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
May 1, 1705-Oct. 23, 1721.
Vol. III, page 118.
[August the 9th 1706.]
…
Mr Henry Cary making application to this Board for directions on severall matters relating to the Carrying on the building the Governors house. It is referred to Edmund Jenings Dudley Diggs Mr Commrs Blair Philip Ludwell William Bassett and Henry Duke Esqrs or any three of them to meet and give such directions in the severall particulars represented by Mr Cary as to them shall seem meet.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
May 1, 1705-Oct. 23, 1721
Vol. III, page 127
36.[August 30, 1706.]
…
Also a warrant to the Receiver Genll to pay unto the Exerix of Edward Nott Esq late Governor his Sallary for one quarter and 29 days ending the 23d inst being 653 li:8:4 & 49li:8s:4d for his house rent for the same time were signed in council.
Calendar of State Papers, America & West Indies
1706-1708, page 205.
Aug. 30, 1706
President and Council of Virginia to Council of Trade.
Your Lordps, will amongst the other Laws receive that for building a house for the Governor, and a fund of 3,000 £ is appropriated for that use.
Calendar of State Papers, America & West Indies 1706-1708, page 404.
March 26, 1707
Letter of Council of Trade and Plantations.
We are glad the Assembly have appropriated a fund for the building of a house for a Governor.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
May 1, 1705-Oct. 23, 1721
Vol. III, page 180.
37.[April the 28th 1708]
…
Mr. Henry Cary Overseer of the building the Governors house by petition representing to this Board that he had well nigh expended the whole Fund appropriated for building the said house and praying direction for his further proceeding therein. It being considered by this Board that there are severall Negroes and other goods bought with the money appropriated as aforesaid wch if sold would raise a considerable sum of money for carrying on the work, but are now usefull therein, And the Council haveing desired to know of Benja Harrison Junr Esqr Treasurer of the Imposition whether he could advance four hundred pounds ... Sterl for carrying on the building the Governors house, And in case an Assembly do not meet this fall or being mett shall not reimburse the sd sum then the said Treasurer shall be paid by the sale of the Negroes and other goods that have been purchased for carrying on the said work.
Calendar of State Papers
Vol. 1, page 124.
Letter of Gov. & Council to Earl of Sunderland.
June 24, 1703.
The Act of Assembly wch imposed that useful and necessary duty on Liquor and Slaves imported into this Colony, expired on the 24th of last month; It hath raised about four thousand pounds, whereof three thousand was appropriated to the building a house for the governor. The outside work of this house is expected to be finished this summer, wch will exhaust the whole fund appointed for that building, and the overplus of those impositions cannot be applied towards finishing it without ye Direction of the Assembly, but I shall take all necessary care for having that work Carryed on and finished as soon as may be.
Calendar of State Papers, America & West Indies
1706-1708, page 766.
38.Letter of Jennings to Council of Trade.
June 24, 1708.
. . .There hath been raised by this Act (duty on liquors and slaves) about 4,000 £ sterl., 3,000 £ of which was appropriated to the building of a house for the Governor, but this will not be sufficient to finish it, neither can the overplus be applied without the direction of the Assembly. 'Tis expected that all the outside work will be finish'd this summer, wch. will exhaust the whole Fund appropriated for the building, but I shall take all necessary care to have that work finished as soon as may be.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
Vol. III, page 192.
[At a Council held the 20th of September 1708.]
…
Ordered that Mr Henry Cary Overseer for the building of the Govs house lay before this Board an account how the £ 3000 appropriated for the building has been expended without mixing therewith the Service he hath done about the Capitol since the raising of the Fund.
Calendar of State Papers, America and West Indies
1708-9, page 97.
Letter of Jenings to Council of Trade.
Sept. 20, 1708.
I thought it necessary to advise with the Councill, concerning the calling an Assembly, the chief occasion for which at this time is the raising an additional fund for finishing the Governor's house, the whole sum appropriated by act of Assembly for that use being already expended, and yet the rooff not rais'd, nor any inside work done;
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
Vol. III, page 201.
39.[October the 28th, 1708.]
…
On the petition of Henry Cary Overseer for the building of the Governors house praying directions for his future proceeding since the money advanced towards that Service is expended and the building not near finished. It is Ordered that Mr Henry Cary sell by Outcry or otherwise as may best advance the price so many of the sd Negros and of the Utensils not usefull for finishing the building as will Satisfy the four hundred pounds advanced by Mr Harrison and that he take care to cover the said house at least with planks to preserve it from the injury of the weather this winter, for payment whereof the Council conceive the remaining Negros and other things in his hands will be sufficient security till the Genll Assembly hath provided for defraying that Charge and finishing the work.
Calendar of State Papers
Vol. 1, page 125.
40.[At a Council held November the 2nd, 1708.]
Mr Henry Cary, Overseer for the building the Governor's house representing that he cannot prevail with ye workmen Employed therein to proceed in covering the sd. house, pursuant to the direction of this Board, unless the arrears due to them (which amounts to near two hundred pounds) be first paid, but that done, they are willing to cover the same & wait for their pay from the General Assembly. It is the opinion of the Court that Mr Benj. Harrison, the Country's Treasurer, be directed to advance two hundred pounds for the above service, out of the money in his hands arising by the late imposition, and this Board do engage that the said sum shall be refunded him out of the two shills pr. hogshead, if the Assembly do not allow the same in his account.
Wil. Robertson, C. Cort
Endorsed Aprill 21st, 1709.
I have recd the sume of two hundred pounds, according to the above order.
Henry Cary
To ye Honoble ye p'sident & Councell
Henry Cary moste Humbley Sheweth-That whereas, you were pleased to order me in October last to take care & burne ye bricks yt were made ye somer before, att ye Governors house, & in order thereunto, have provided wood to burne ym; butt not haveing any money to defray ye charge, doe pray yt you will please to finde sum way to pay ye charge, yt ye bricks may not be loste; ye whole charge will amount to about nine & twenty or thirty pound, besides ye Carteing; ye particulars whareof are here under riten:
S £ 150 loads of wood 12 6.7.6. to moulding & burning 70 m. bricks 3s. 6d. P'M 12.5.0 To laborers worke resetting & burning ym 3.0.0 29.3.6
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia Vol. III, page 203.
November the 2d 1708.
…
Mr Henry Cary Overseer for the building the Gover house representing that he cannot prevail with the Workmen employed therein to proceed in covering the sd house pursuant to the directions of this board unless the arrears due to them (which amounts to near two hundred pounds) be first paid, but that done they are willing to cover the same and wait for their pay from the Genll Assembly. It is the opinion of the Council that Mr Benja Harrison the Countrys Treasurer be desired to advance two hundred pounds for the above Service out of the money in his hands ariseing by the late Impositions and this Board do engage that the said sum shall be refunded him out of the 2s per hogshead if the Assembly do not allow the same in his accounts.
Calendar of State Papers, America and West Indies
1708-9, page 199.
[Letter of Council of Trade and Plantations]
January 12, 1709.
We doubt not but the money raised for building a house for H. M. Govnor has been so prudently laid out that the Assembly will readily comply with your desire of giving a further supply for the finishing that work.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia Vol. 3, page 233.
41.March the 9th 1709.
Mr President acquainted the Council that his chief intention in calling this Council was to consider whether it be necessary to have an Assembly that tho he had no particular commands from her Majesty requireing the meeting of an Assembly nor any thing to propose to them for her Majestys Service (except the raising money for finishing the Governors house)...
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 16, page 83, 84.
[Also: Colonial Papers, Box 1703-1710, folder 1709, Virginia State Library Archives.]
Petition of Henry Cary in Regard to the Governor's House - 1709
To the Honerable Edmond Jenings Esquire ye P'sident of his Majesties Councell of Virginia [illegible] to. . . of y'r Honorable Councell Henry Cary Most (?) sheweth.
That whereas your Petitioner was ordered and empowered by ye late Generall assembly to build a dwelling house and out houses for ye Queens Governor have accordingly used ye utmost of my Endevor to performe ye same and have built and almost finished ye Kitchen and Carryed up ye wall and raysed ye roffe of ye Dwelling house and Covered itt with planks and layed on ye lead upon ye flatt of ye roffe and where as ye s'd Assembly ordered ye s'd house to be Covered with stone slate, which was sent of accordingly and are Com in butt are soe broke in Coming y't not two thirds of them are fitt for use and those y't are fitt Cannot mett with or here of any workman y't under-stands how to lay them soe y't ye house is still uncovered only with planks, which is not sufficient to make itt tite and soe Consequently ye timber worke will receave much Damadg by ye raine y't Come in doe therefore most humbley pray y't your Honors will please to take ye s'd building into your Considderation and Give such directions therein as you think fitt.
(Endorsed)
Mr. Henry Cary,
16th April, 1709.
[Note:
At the session of October 1705 the Generall Assembly directed that a brick house, fifty four feet in length, and forty-eight in breadth, inside measurement, two stories with a cellar, should be built as a residence for the Governors. Henry Cary was appointed overseer of the work. (Hening III, 285).]
[At the session of October 1710 as the house had not been finished another appropriation was made, with provision for gardens and house furniture, and Henry Cary again made overseer. (Hening III, 482).]
42.Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia Vol. III, page 216. 1705-1721
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial VirginiaCouncil held Aprill the 26th 1709.
…
Henry Cary Overseer appointed for building the Governors house haveing by his petition sett forth how he hath proceeded in the said building and that the Slate sent in for Covering the said house is so broke that there is above one third not fitt for use and representing that if the said roof is not speedily covered the timbers will be in danger of rotting and decaying with the rain. It is the opinion of the Council that Mr Cary cause the roof of the Govers house to be Shingled as soon as may be to preserve it from thos injurys he is apprehensive of.
Vol. III, page 1557. 1753-
A proposal (1710)
For rendring the new House Convenient as well as Ornamental.
That such necessary places as Stable, Coatch house, Cowhouse & Hen-house together with an enclosed Yard for Poultry be made.
That a Kitchen Garden and Orchard be paled in at leaste
That a Flower Garden behind the House as well as the Courtyard before it be enclosed with a Brick wall 4 foot high with a Ballustrade of Wood on the Top.
That 3 doz Strong Fashionable Chairs & 3 large Tables 3 large looking Glasses & four Chimney Glasses be bought for the furniture of the lower Apartments, as also one Marble Buffette or sideboard wth a Cistern & fountain.
43.That the great Room in the second Story be furnished with gilt Leather hangings 16 Chairs of the same, two large looking glasses with the Arms of the Colony on them according to the new Mode, two small tables to stand under the Looking Glasses and two Marable Tables Eight Glass Sconces.
That there be one large looking Glass more for the largest of the Bed Chambers and four Chimney Glasses for the said Floor
One great Lanthorn for the Hall
That all standing Furniture for the Kitchen and Brew house such as a Copper for washing another for brewing Stove Irons and other thing that must necessaryly be fixed to the House be bought & furnished at the publick Charge
[Endorsed:] Mr Robertson for the house
[Note: This was one of the papers used by the Committee which drew up in 1710 the "Act for finishing a house for the Governor, etc."]
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 17, pages 36, 37.
Proposal in Regard to the Governors House
(About 1710)
Same as Legislative Journals, vol. iii, p. 1557.
44.Keith, William
History of the British Plantations in America
London: 1738. pages 170-172.
[1710]
… Governor Nott was a Man of a very mild Temper and Behaviour, but did not live to give the People that Happiness which might have been expected from his administration for after he had passed several good Laws, and prevailed with the Assembly to provide a fund to build a convenient House at Williamsburgh, for the Governor's Residence, he died in August 1706, whereby the administration fell into the hands of Edward Jenings, Esq: then President of the Council, who had no Occasion to hold any Assembly; so that all Things remain'd quiet in Virginia until the Year 1710, that Colonel Alexander Spotswood came over Lieutenant-Governor, under the Earl of Orkney, in the same manner that Mr. Nott the preceeding Governor had done…
…
… He was well acquainted with Figures, and so good a Mathematician, that his skill in Architecture, and in the laying out of Ground to the best advantage, is yet to be seen in Virginia, by the Building of an elegant safe Magazine, in the Centre of Williamsburgh, and in the considerable Improvements which he made to the Governor's House and Gardens…
[illegible notes in margin]
William and Mary Quarterly, 1st Series
Vol. 16, page 14.
Williamsburg - The Old Colonial Capitol
45.In 1710 Alexander Spotswood arrived as lieutenant-governor... He built a brick magazine..., and completed the governor's house, which Nott had begun...
We are told that, at the governor's house, on birthnights, balls and assemblies, the scene presented was equal to anything outside the court circles of England.
William and Mary Quarterly, 1st Series
Vol. 9, page 217.
(Brunswick County and Fort Christanna)
Spotswood was the patron of both the college and the City. Under his observant eye all the edifices of any importance in Williamsburg, except the Capitol, were constructed: the Palace, the Church, the Octagon Magazine, the James City County Court-house, etc.
Official Letters of Alex. Spotswood
Introduction, p. xii.
(Richmond : Virginia Historical Society, 1822)
… He was a proficient in Mathematics, built the octagonal magazine, rebuilt William and Mary College, and made improvements in the Governor's house and gardens…
Ibid
Vol. I, p. 13.
46.Letter to Earl of Sunderland
August 18, 1710.…I have called the Assembly to meet the 25th of October, finding it for her Maj'ties Service that they should raise money for finishing the house they have begun to build for the reception of the Governor…
Calendar of State Papers, America & West Indies
1710-11, page 171.
Letter of Spotswood to Council of Trade
August 18, 1710.I have with the advice of the Council issued out writts for calling an Assembly to meet October 25: the chief business that requires their meeting is the raising money for finishing the Governor's house…
Official Letters of Alex. Spotswood
Vol. 1, page 10.
47.Letter to Comr's of Trade
August 18th, 1710.…I have, with the advice of the Council, issued out Writts for calling an Assembly to meet the 25th of October: the chief business that requires their meeting is the raising money for finishing the Governor's house...
[Note:] The building of the Governor's house was authorized by the assembly in October 1705, "upon the land bought of Henry Tyler, joyning to the City of Williamsburgh, or upon so many of the next adjacent lotts laid out for the City of Williamsburgh as to the directory of the said city shall seem most fitt and convenient" to the extent of sixty-three acres on the north side of the city, "and that the house be built of brick, fifty-four feet in length, and forty-eight feet in breadth, from inside to inside, two stories high, with convenient cellars underneath, and one vault" with "covering of stone slate". The appropriation for its cost was £ 3,000. (Hening iii, pp. 275-6)]
[October, 1710, the house not being completed, a further appropriation of £ 1,560 was made, and for the purchase of furniture and laying out gardens, etc. £635, additionally. (Hening iii, pp. 482-6)]
Sir John Randolph in a communication in the Virginia Gazette April 22, 1737, states that the overseer of the work, Henry Cary, who was appointed by the assembly, was discharged, and that Gov. Spotswood undertook its completion, and the amount already expended at that time was "upwards of £ 6,600 sterling".
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 240.
[Spotswood's speech to Burgesses]
An act of Assembly for Thursday October 26th 1710.
I am comands[ed] to put you in mind of Appropriating a farther sume of Mony for The Speedy perfecting The Governors house. This is a Matter in which Your Own Honour is now so far Engaged, That I no ways Doubt of your Ready complyance. The same Reasons which prevailed for the Beginning, do now Doubly plead for The finishing of it and as you Designed it for an honourable Reception, so I hope you no less Intend to make it a Comodious one.
Hening's Statutes at Large
April 1684-October 1710
Pages 482-486.
51.[Session of October 1710]
An Act for finishing a House for the Governor of this Colony and Dominion.
WHEREAS by an Act of Assembly, made at a General Assembly, begun at the Capitol the twenty third day of October, in the fourth year of the reign of our Sovereign Lady Anne, Queen of Great-Britain, France and Ireland, and in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and five, intituled an act directing the building a house for the Governor of this Colony and Dominion, a house according to the dimensions, discriptions and directions, in the said act mentioned and given, together with a kitchen and stable, suitable to the said house, for the residence of the Governor of this Colony and Dominion, was directed to be built and finished on the land therein mentioned; which said house, kitchen and stable not being finished according to the directions of the said act;
Wee, her Majesties most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Burgesses, now assembled, having seriously considered the necessity of finishing the said house and the great delay that hath happened in perfecting the same, have chearfully and 48. unanimously given and granted unto her most gracious Majestie the sum of fifteen hundred and sixty pounds, to be employed, made use of and expended in finishing and compleating the said house, kitchen and stable, according to the directions in the said act given, and do humbly pray your honour it may be enacted.
And be it enacted by the Lieut. Governor, Council and Burgesses of this General Assembly, and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same, That he said house, kitchen and stable be finished and completed according to the directions laid down and given in the said act of Assembly, with all convenient expedition for the uses and purposes therein mentioned.
And whereas, for rendering the said house more compleat and commodious for the reception of the Governor of this antient Colony and Dominion, severall buildings, gardens and other ornaments and things are further necessary and convenient to be made and done; therefore we, the Burgesses aforesaid, taking the same into our serious consideration, have freely and unanimously given and granted unto her most gracious Majestie the further sum of six hundred thirty-five pounds to be employed, laid out and made use of according to the directions in this act, hereafter mentioned, and do humbly pray your honour it may be enacted.
And be it enacted by the authority aforesaid, That a Court-Yard, of dimentions proportionable to the said house, be laid out, levelled and encompassed with a brick wall four foot high, with ballustrades of wood thereupon, on the said land, and that a Garden of the length of two hundred fifty-four foot and of the breadth of one hundred forty-four foot from out to out, adjoining to the said house, to be laid out and levelled and enclosed with a brick wall, four feet high, with ballustrades of wood upon the said wall, and that handsome gates be made to the said court-yard and garden, and that a convenient kitchen garden be laid out on the said land and be enclosed with pailes, and that an orchard and pasture ground be made on the said land and be enclosed with a good ditch and fence, and also that a house of wood be built and finished for houseing cattle, and that a house of wood for poultry be built and finished, with a yard thereto enclosed, on the said land.
And be it further enacted, That out of the sume of six hundred thirty-five pounds, hereby given and granted to her 49. Majestie, the sume of two hundred and fifty pounds shall be expended and laid out in buying necessary standing and ornamentall furniture for the said house, which furniture shall be provided in this country or sent for from Great-Britain by the overseer, hereinafter named, by the direction and appointment of the Lt. Governor or Commander in Chief of this Colony, for the time being, and shall forever hereafter belong to and is hereby appropriated to the said house.
And be it further enacted, That for a supply of money to begin, carry on and finish the aforesaid house, stable, kitchen, court-yard, garden, orchard, out-houses, and all other the work herein directed to be made and done, and also to buy the furniture aforesaid, the said overseer shall, from time to time, as occasion shall require, make application to his honour the lieut. governor, or the governor, or commander in chief of this colony and dominion, for the time being, who, upon such application is hereby desired to issue his warrant upon the admr. of the estate of the late treasurer, & upon the present treasurer of this dominion, for so much money as may be wanted untill the full sum of fifteen hundred and sixty pounds and of six hundred thirty-five pounds shall be employed, made use of and expended in finishing the court-yard, garden, orchard, out-houses, aforesaid, and all the work herein before mentioned and directed to be made and done, and in buying the said furniture, and the charges thereupon accruing, and to and for no other use or uses whatsoever.
And for the more easy, expeditious and cheap carrying on the building and work aforesaid;
Be it enacted, That the said overseer have full power to send to Great Britain for iron-work, glass, lead, or any other necessary materials to be made use of in and about the said house and work, and that he same be imported at the risque of the country and on the like public risque, to buy such and so many slaves, horses, carts and other necessaries for carrying on the said work as he, by and with the approbation of the Lieut. Governor or Commander in Chief of this Colony and Dominion, for the time being, and Council shall think fitt.
And be it further enacted, That Henry Cary be appointed and is hereby appointed overseer to inspect, oversee and provide for the building and all and singular the work and things hereby directed to be made and done, with full power to begin, carry on and finish the same, under and with the direction of 50. the Lieut. Governor or Commander in Chief of this Colony and Dominion, for the time being and Council, and in case, at any time hereafter, there be occasion of appointing a new overseer, by means of the death or disability of the said Henry Cary or of any other person that shall or may succeed him in the said employment and trust, his honor the Lieut. Governor, or the Governor or Commander in Chief of this Colony and Dominion, for the time being, is hereby desired on such occasions, to nominate and appoint a new overseer, and every person who shall be so appointed, is hereby declared to have as full power to proceed and act in carrying on, finishing and doing all the buildings, work and other things hereby directed by the overseer to be performed and done as the said Henry Cary hath by virtue of this act.
And be it further enacted, That the said Henry Cary and every other person which after him shall be appointed to be overseer as aforesaid, shall be paid and allowed for the time of his respective service and attendance in the employment and trust aforesaid, after the rate of one hundred pounds a year.
Provided always, and be it enacted, That the said Henry Cary and every other person which after him shall be appointed to be overseer as aforesaid, shall, before he be admitted into the said employment and trust, enter into bond, with one or more surety's, in the penalty of five hundred pounds sterling, that he will not imbezell or convert to his own use, any part of the moneys, materials or other things put into his hands or under his care for carrying on the building or other the work, aforesaid, but that according to the best of his skill and understanding and the trust reposed in him, he will faithfully lay out all such moneys in and about the uses and services for which he shall receive the same; and also that he will lay an account of his disbursements, from time to time, before the Governor and Council and before the General Assembly at their meeting, and make oath thereto when required.
And be it further enacted, That all such charge and expense as shall or may hereafter accrue for repairing the house, out-houses, gardens and all other the work herein directed to be done, shall be defrayed out of her Majestie's revenue of two shillings per hogshead.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 269.
An Act of Assembly for November 16th 1710.
Resolved That the Governors house be finished
Resolved That a Comittee be appointed to Inspect what progress is allready made upon The Governors House.-
And Thereupon a Comittee being Appointed; to Witt,
Mr Holloway Mr Christopher Robinson Mr Allerton Mr Pressly Mr Merriwether Mr Soane Mr Burwell Mr Robert Bolling Ordered That The said Committee prepare a scheme of what may be farther necessary for finishing the Governors house and That for their better proceeding Therein, They make application to the Governor for his Advice and upon Consideration of the Whole Matter Report Their opinions to the House.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 270.
51aFryday November 17th 1710.
Mr Holloway from The Comitee to Whom it was Referred to inspect What progress is allready Made upon the Governors house Reported That The said Committee had proceeded Therein and Directed him to Move That They may have leave to Meet again and That a Clerk Might be Appointed to Attend Them.
Ordered That The said Committee have Leave to Meet again and to Imploy a Clerk to Attend Them.
Louis B. Wright & Marion Tinling, eds.
The Secret Diary of William Byrd of Westover, 1709-1712
(Richmond: Dietz Press, 1941), page 220.
[August 21, 1710, at Westover]" 21. I rose at 5 o'clock and rode to see Drury Stith ... I ate some milk there and stayed about an hour and then returned home. ... About 12 o'clock Harry Cary [fn. Henry Cary was overseer of the construction of several public buildings, including... the Governor's house...] came and Mrs. Sarah Tayloe. They stayed to dinner and I ate some hashed veal. In the afternoon the company went away. ..."
Ibid., page 250.
[Williamsburg, October 31, 1710] "31. ... About 9 o'clock Mr. Bland came to see me. Then we went to Court [the General Court], where we sat about two hours and then went to Council and then back to the court, where we sat till 4 o'clock. The we went to dinner and I ate turkey. Then Colonel Lewis and I walked to see the governor's house [fn. The finishing of a house for the governor was one of the projects in which Spotswood was especially interested] and then went to the President's where we played at cards and I lost 35 shillings. ..."
Ibid., page 259.
[Williamsburg, November 17, 1710] "17. ... About 10 o'clock I went to wait on the Governor [Spotswood] and found several of the House of Burgesses there with a message to know what he would have done to the house for the Governor. I went with them to the Governor's house where he showed them all the conveniences he proposed. It rained this morning as it had done also in the night.52.
About 1 o'clock I went to the capitol where we amended the bill concerning the tobacco hogsheads. ..."
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 275.
Legislative Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia 1753. Vol. 111, page 1556.Wednesday November 22d 1710.
Mr Holloway from The committee Appointed to Inspect What progress is already made upon The Governors house and to prepare a scheme of what may be farther Necessary for finishing The same, Reported the proceedings of The said Committee Thereupon which he read in his place and Then Delivered in at the Table.
…
Then the Report of The said Committee About The Governors house was Read and ordered to Lie upon The Table with some papers Thereto Relating.Ordered That it be Referred to The Committee of Propositions & Grievances to prepare And bring in a Bill for finishing The Governors house.
[Petition of Henry Cary Nov. 24th 1710.]
Virginia sct
To the Honorable the General Assembly
Henry CaryHumbly Sheweth
That your Petitioner was appointed by Act of Assembly Overseer of the building the Governrs House untill the same was finished, And by the said Act or sallary of one hundred pounds P. Annum was setled upon your Peticonr untill he should be discharged from the said service Pursuant where unto your Peticonr Did begin and enter upon the said building and to the best of his power and ability Did Carry on and Oversee the same till it was so far advanced towards the finishing 53. as it now stands, and till the money raised by the said act and appropriated for that use was spent together with an advanced sum of two hundred pounds more than was appropriated as aforesaid. And your Peticonr then Considering himself under an Obligacon to the Assembly to take care of the same untill he was discharged, and also considering, that unless he was to be allow'd his full sallary of one hundred pounds P Anum it would be very much to his prejudice to continue there and neglect his own affairs, Apply'd himself to the Honble Mr President for his directions therein and that if he were of Opinion your Petr ought not to continue any longer in that business, that he would be pleased to discharge him your Peticonr and appoint some other person to take Care of the said building and other things belonging to it, notwithstanding which, your Peticonr could not obtain any Order or discharge about the premises from the President further than that he could not appoint any other person then these whom the Law had intrusted, & appointed for that purpose whereupon your Peticonr lookt upon himself to be under necessity of continuing to look after the said building as thinking himself lyable to answer any damages that might happen for want of his due care therein, and hath don severall things and services towards the same, dureing such intervall, as primeing and painting the Timber work in severall parts of it and burning a Large Kill of Bricks and Other small services and accordingly, the better to Enable your Peticonr to be the more carefull and diligent in looking after the said building, he did break up Housekeeping at his own Plantacon and remove his wife and other of his Domesticks to the said work or building, all which was very prejudiciall to your Peticonr and will tend much to his ruin if he be not allowed his full sallary for the full time he hath attended that service wherefore...
Calendar of State Papers
Vol. 1, page 146.
54.Nov. 24th, 1710.
Petition of Henry Cary to the General Assembly. (Same as reference to p. 1556, Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia, Vol. III)
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 279.
Satturday November 25th 1710
Mr. Randolph Reported That The Committee of propositions and Grievances had according to order prepared to Bill; to Witt
. . .
A Bill for finishing a house for The Governor of This Colony and Dominion Which he presented to The house And the same Were Received.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 281.
An Act of Assembly for November 27th 1710.
A Petition of Henry Cary being Referred by The Councill to the Consideration of This house was Read, praying his full Sallary for Being Overseer to the Building of the Governor's house.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 285.
54-a.An Act of Assembly for Wednesday November 29th 1710.
Wee thought it so Expedient to finish The house for our Governor That we have prepared a Bill in which we have given her Majesty fifteen hundred and sixty pounds for perfecting the same; And That it may be The more Commodious & Ornamental for the Reception of your Honour wee have Therein given the Further sum of Six hundred Thirty five pounds; Which we humbly hope her Majesty Will be pleased Gratiously to Accept.
[Ms. Virginia State Library Archives. (Photostat CWI).]
54bProposal
For rendering the new House Convenient as well as Ornamental
That such necessary places as Stable, Coatch house, Cowhouse & Henhouse together with an enclosed Yard for Poultry be made.
That a Kitchen Garden and Orchard be paled in at least
That a Flower Garden behind the House as well as the Court yard before it be enclosed with a Brick wall 4 foot high with a Ballustrade of Wood on the Top
That the Land belonging to the House being about 60 acres may be enclosed with a Ditch & Fence for a Pasture.
That 3 doz Strong fashionable Chairs & 3 large Tables 3 large looking Glasses & four Chimney Glasses be bought for the furniture of the lower Apartments, as also one Marble Buffette or Sideboard wth a Cistern & fountain.
That the great Room in the second Story be furnished with gilt Leather hangings 16 Chairs of the same, two large looking glasses with the Arms of the Colony on them according to the new Mode. two small Tables to stand under the Looking Glasses and two Marble Tables Eight Glass Sconces.
That there be one large looking Glass more for the largest of the Bed Chambers and four Chimney Glasses for the said Floor
One great Lanthorn for the Hall
That all standing Furniture for the Kitchen and Brew house such as a Copper for washing another for brewing Stove Irons and other things that must necessaryly be fixed to the House be bought & furnished at the publick Charge.
[Endorsed on the back]
Mr Robertson for the house
Furniture &c for the Palace -Abt 1710 probably.
[Ms. Virginia State Library Archives. (Photostat CWI)-/ Virginia sc
55.To the Honorable the Generall Assembly
Henry Cary
Humbly Sheweth
That your Petitioner was appointed by Act of Assembly Overseer of the building the governrs House untill the same was finished, And by the said Act or sallary of one hundred pounds P. Annum was setled upon your Peticonr untill he should be discharged from the said service Pursuant where unto your Peticonr did begin and enter upon the said building and to the best of his power and ability did Carry on and Oversee the said same till it was so far advanced towards the finishing as it now stands, and till the money raised by the said act and appropriated for that use was spent together with an advanced sum of two hundred pounds more than was appropriated as aforesaid. And your Peticonr then Considering himself under an Obligacon to the Assembly to take care of the same untill he was discharged, and also considering, that unless he was to be allow'd his full sallary of one hundred pounds P Anum it would be very much to his prejudice to continue there and neglect his own affairs, Apply'd himself to the Honble Mr President for his directions therein and that if he were of Opinion your Petr ought not to continue any longer in that business, that he would be pleased to discharge him your Peticonr and appoint some other person to take Care of the said building and other things belonging to it. Notwithstanding which, your Peticonr could not obtain any Order or discharge about the premises from the President further than that he could not appoint any other person then these whom the Law had intrusted, & appointed for that purpose whereupon your Peticonr lookt upon himself to be under necessity of continuing to look after the said building as thinking himself lyable to answer any damages that might happen for want of his due care therein, and hath don severall things and services towards the same, dureing such intervall, as primeing and painting the Timber work in severall parts of it and burning a Large Kill of Bricks and Other small services and accordingly, the better to Enable your Peticonr to be the more carefull and diligent in looking after the said building, he did break up Housekeeping at his own Plantacon and remove his wife and other of his Domesticks to the said work or building, all which was very prejudiciall to your Peticonr and will tend much to his ruin if he be not allowed his full sallary for the full time he hath attended that service. Wherefore
Your Peticoner Humbly Prays that your Honr consideracon of the Premisses, and the obligacon he ly's under by the Said Act and that he may be allowed and Ordered his full Sallary for his Services aforesd.
[Endorsed on back]
Petition of Henry Cary
Novr 24th 1710By the honble Council referred by Consideration of the house of Burgesses... Will Robertson Clerk
Novr 27th 1710
Referd to the Comtee of Claims to examine the Subject matter thereof and report their opinion thereon to the house W R C.H.B Petn is for payt of his salary as "Overseer of the building of the Govr's house.
Virginia Magazine of History
vol. 26, page 161.
Account of Her Majesty's Duty on Liquors and Slaves from 10th day of December 1710 including £ 72.17.10p received by Coll'o Richard Lee for Duty before that time.
To payments for the Governor's House - - - - £ 1958.17.0
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1702-1712
Page 290.
An Act of Assembly for December the Second 1710.
An Engrossed Bill Entituled An act for finishing a house for The Governor of This Colony and Dominion Was read The Third time.
Resolved That The Bill do pass.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714
Vol. 1, page 507.
56.Monday Decembr the 4th 1710
Bill Entd an Act for finishing a hose for the Governor of this Colony & dominion.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714
Vol. 1, page 507.
Tuesday December the 5th 1710
A Bill Entd an Act for finishing a house for the Governor of this Colony and dominion read the Second time and
Ordered a Third reading.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714
Vol. 1, page 508.
Wednesday December the 6th 1710
A Bill Entd an Act for finishing a house for the Governor of this Colony and dominion read the third time.
Resolved
That the Bill do pass
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 5, page 13.
57.Boundary Line Proceedings 1710.
We rid to Williamsburg, and waited on the Governor before eleven of the clock, he was pleased to send for Mr. La Feavour, to see the manner of our takeing an observation which was performed at noon by Mr. Beverley at the Governors House very much to the satisfaction of Mr. La Feavour-
Official Letters of Alex. Spotswood
Vol. 1, page 52.
Letter to Council of Trade
March 6th, 1710 [1711]…Pursuant to her maj'tie's Instructions, I did, at the beginning of this Session, recommend to the Assembly the finishing the house they have begun to build for the Governor; upon which they have passed an Act appropriating the sum of two thousand one hundred ninety five pounds for that use.
[illegible handwritten note]
Calendar of State Papers, America & West Indies
1710-11, page 415.
Letter of Spotswood to Council of Trade. March 6, 1711.
Pursuant to H. M. Instructions, I did at the beginning of this Session recommend to the Assembly the finishing the House they had begun to build for the Governor. Upon which they have passed an Act appropriating £2195 for that use.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
May 1, 1705-October 23, 1721
Vol. III, page 272.
57a.At a Council held Aprill the 28th 1711.
Whereas it doth appear to this Board by the account of Disbursements exhibited by Henry Cary Overseer for the building of the Govners house that the method he has pursued for carrying on that building is extravagantly chargable and expensive both in the pay of the Workmen and charge of housekeeping. This Board are therefore of Opinion that it is the duty of the said Cary to endeavour the lessening the said Expence by a more frugal management of the money wherewith he is entrusted by the General Assembly, and do request the Governor to give directions that Workmen may be imployed to undertake the finishing that building by the piece or such other way as he shall find most usefull for carrying on the said Work to the best Advantage.
1710
On an invoice for a book ordered from W. H. John and Dr. S.M.T. John, 4 St. John's Road, Newport, Mon. England, dated September 17, 1952, the following postscript was typed in red:
We came across a record recently that Iron Gates for Williamsburg were made in 1710 by Major John Hanbury at the Pontypool Ironworks eight miles from Newport Mon. Then the greatest ironworks in Europe.
In the meantime Mr. Middleton has written to the Messrs John to find out the source of this information in order that he might secure a photostat of the record for the Palace report.
F.K.
October 21, 1952.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714
Vol. 1, page 524.
Friday December the 7th 1711.
the Council being informed of divers Mismangements in the building the Govrs house
Ordered
That Henry Cary Overseer of the said work lay before the Council tomorrow morning an Acctt of his Disburstments with the proper Vouchers Since the passing the act for finishing the said house.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1705-1721
Vol. III, page 293.
59.December the 7th 1711.
Whereas Henry Cary Overseer for the building the Governors house amongst divers other mismanagements and misapplications of the publick money with which he is intrusted hath under pretense of dieting the workmen imployed in the said building taken the liberty to maintain his whole family at the publick charge…
And it is Ordered that the said Henry Cary be required to lay before this Board the Account of his disbursements to be examined and passed according to the directions of the Act of Assembly for finishing the Governor's house-
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714
Vol. 1, page 525.
Saturday December 8th 1711
Mr Henry Cary attending According to order and moveing for further time to Compleat his Acctts in order to be laid before the Council
Ordered
That ye said Henry Cary attend with his Accts and Vouchers on Tuesday morning next.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714
Vol. 1, page 526.
60.Wednesday December the 12th 1711.
Mr Henry Cary presented his Acctt of Disburstmts about the Governours house and it is Ordered that the sd Accts ly on the Table to be perused by the members of ye Council.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714
Vol. 1, page 531.
Friday December the 21st 1711.
The Council proceeded to take into Consideracon Mr henry Cary's Acctts and finding therein Sevll Considerable payments for wch there are no Vouchers
Ordered
That the sd Cary perfect his Accompts and lay the same before the Council when Required.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page XXV.
…This Committee was, however, further authorized to audit the accounts of the expenditures necessary to be made on the Governor's House for its completion. The nine hundred pounds appropriated by the Assembly at their former meeting for this object had proved inadequate,… authorized… to take the construction of the building under his own supervision.61.
Calendar of State Papers, America & West Indies
1711-12, page 208.
Letter of Mr. Harley to Mr. Popple Jan. 21, 1712.
The Lord High Treasurer desires a report from the Council of Trade and Plantations, as to the directions that were given for building for the said house, and why they have not been complyed with, as also their opinion whether it may be reasonable, that the said allowance in lieu of house rent should be continued any longer…
Calendar of State Papers, America & West Indies
1711-12, page 208-209.
62.Letter of Earl of Orkney to Lord High Treasurer
Jan. 21, 1712.Whereas the govmt. of Virginia ever since the settlement of that Colony in the Crown have allowed £ 150 per annum towards the renting of a house for the Govr., but about four years past the said £ 150 was taken away by the late Lord Treasurer, upon the supposition that as H. M. had recommended to the General Assembly that a house shou'd be built by them, for the honor of H. M. and the Govt. there, which they with great alacrity and cheerfulness imbarked in, and have made such advances therein that the said house is built and cover'd, but the great disaster of the war, and the low ebb the prices of tobacco have been at, and still continue, and the publick Treasury of Virginia being exhausted, the country is not in a capacity to compleat the same, and Col. Spotswood has by his repeated letters to me desired I wou'd lay this hardship before your Lordship. Besides the emoluments of that Govnt. are much impaired, he is in a house which he pays rent for and humbly prays your Lordship will permit him to reassume the payment of the £ 150 out of the Govnt. there, untill the said house be fully compleated.
(Trade Papers, Vol. 107, pp. 108-109)
Virginia Manuscripts from British Record Office &c
Vol. 8.
Sainsbury Vol. V, part III, page 353.
1711/12. Feby 27 Whitehall.
Journal of the B. T. & Plants. Col. Blakiston and M. Perry attending, the Earl of Orkney's Memorial relating to the rent of a house in Virginia for Lt. Gov. Spotswood was communicated to them and being asked several Questions thereon, they said that Col. Spotswood had received before his departure from hence an order for leave to take £ 150 per ann: for house rent for two years or till the House for the Governor should be built- that said rent was paid out of the 2s per hhd on tobacco and that if he could obtain leave to receive said allowance for two years more they believed the house would in that time be finished- These gentlemen being withdrawn direction were given for preparing Draught of letter to the Lord High Treasurer in answer to his of 21st Ulto inclosing said Memorial- Said letter was signed March 15.
Calendar of State Papers, America and West Indies
1711-12, page 248.
63.Council of Trade and Plantations
to Lord High Treasurer
March 15, 1712.Upon the Assembly's having appropriated a fund for £ 5195 for ye building of such a house, which was thought would have been sufficient, the governors were restrained fromreceiving the £ 150 per annum usually allow'd for house-rent. But in consideration that the said house is not yet habitable, and that the Governors and Col. Spotswood (as we are informed) have had leave to receive the said house rent for two years, and that the said rent has always been paid out of the duty of 2s. per hhd.
Calendar of State Papers, America & West Indies
1712-14, page 14
Letter of Spotswood to Council
of Trade & Plantations
July 26, 1712.There is besides these only a fund raised by a temporary duty for finishing the Governor's house, and all that hath arison thereon hitherto, hath been applied to that use alone…
Official Letters of Alex. Spotswood
Vol. 1, page 164.
64.Letter to Council of Trade
July 26th, 1712.There is besides this, only a Fund raised by a temporary duty for finishing the Governor's house, and all that hath arisen thereon hath hitherto been applied to that use alone, and no great expectations of its raising much more than is so appropriated.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 21.
An Act of Assembly for Fryday November the 7th 1712.
I Have directed The Overseers for building the Governors house to Lay before you their Accounts by which you may now Judge of the Computation formerly made for finishing that building.
[Message of Spotswood]
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 22.
65.Saturday November the 8th 1712.
Some Accounts prepared by the Overseers for building the Governors House Relating to the Said Building being presented to this House were Received And upon a Motion made Ordered That the Said Accounts Ly upon the Table.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 23.
An Act of Assembly for Munday November the 10th 1712.
Upon a Motion made by a Member of the House Henry Cary Some time Overseer for Building the Governor's House hath leave to Lay before this House his Accounts Relating to the Said Building And the Same was received.
Ordered That the Said Accounts Do Ly upon the Table.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726 Page 36.
66.An Act of Assembly for Saturday November the 22d 1712.
Mr. Buckner for the Committee of Claims Reported that they had [according to Order] Inspected and Examined the Severall accounts of the Overseers for building the Governors House And presented the Same To the House.
Ordered That the Said Accounts Do Ly upon the Table.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 37.
An Act of Assembly for Saturday November the 22d 1712.
…You will perceive that it is in Vain to begin on that work [Bruton Parish] because the Sum given is not Sufficient to perfect it No more than what hath been Appropriated towards the Governors House will finish that.
[Letter of Spotswood]
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726 Page 37.
[Also: William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series, Vol. 21, p. 250]
67.An Act of Assembly for Tuesday November the 25th 1712.
Mr Nicholas Meriwether Reported that the persons appointed had [according to Order] further Examined the Accounts of the Overseers for building the Governors House And find that the Said Accounts were Justly Stated by the Committee for Publick Claims Only that there appears to be due to Henry Cary One of ye Said Overseers Three pounds Fifteen Shillings and Six pence more than he hath Credit for in his Account.
The House proceeded to the Immediate Consideration of the Report...
Resolved That this House doth Agree to the Said Report
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 39.
68.An Act of Assembly for Thursday November the 27th 1712.
A written Message from the Honourable the Lieut. Governor by Mr. Robertson Mr Speaker and Gentlemen of the House of Burgesses
Your Address presented to me yesterday gives me Occasion to let you know that I shall Diminish the Wings projected for the Publick use in the Parish Church of Bruton Since I percieve you will be Contented with less Room therein.
I expected you would have taken Notice of the latter part of the Message I sent you on the 22th Instant Concerning your Governors House For Since the Overseers Accounts which have been for Some time before you plainly discover that the Money given is all expended And that you are all Eye Witnesses that the building is not yet finished I could not believe it would need any further Recommendation from me Especially being Satisfyed that this Deficiency is owing to the Short Computation of the Expence And not to any unthrifty Management During my time: I therefore hope that you will now for the Honour of your Country appropriate a further Sum for compleating that building And not let it Remain this to all Strangers a Visable Testimony of an Imprudent undertaking.
A. Spotswood.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 39, 40.
69.An Act of Assembly for Thursday November the 27th 1712
Ordered That Mr John Robinson Mr Christopher Robinson Mr Conway Mr Meriwether Mr Fitzhugh Mr Armistead Mr Bolling Mr Soane Mr Tully Robinson Mr Ball Mr Waller and Mr Thornton forthwith make Application to the Governor and know of him what Sum may be Sufficient to finish the Governors House And Report the Same to this House…
Mr John Robinson Reported that the Persons Appointed had / according to Order/ made Application To the Governor to know of him what Sum might be Sufficient to finish the Governors House And that his Honor was pleased t Say it was very Difficult to make Computations in this Country but that he would Manage it as thriftily as he could And believed according to the best Computation he could make That Six hundred pounds besides what is already expended would finish the work.
The House proceeded to the immediate Consideration of the Said Report And Thereupon
Resolved and accordingly Ordered
That for payment of the Debt Due upon the Governrs House more than the Money already appropriated will pay And for finishing the Said House And the Appurtenances to it belonging the Sum of Nine hundred pounds be Appropriated out of the fund that shall Arise from an Act made this Session of Assembly Entituled An Act for Continuing an Act Entituled an Act for Laying a Duty on Liquors and Slaves And for Appropriating Money Sufficient to Furnish Nine hundred yards of Duffells And One thousand pounds for the Service and Relief of North Carolina out of the Said Duty And for Appointing Treasurer and that the said Nine hundred pounds be paid by the Treasurer of the Said Continued Impositions for the Time being upon Warrant of the Lieut Governor or the Governor or Commander in Chief of this Colony for the time being next after the Moneys which now are or hereafter shall During this Session be Ordered To be paid out of the Said fund.Ordered That the Persons appointed to Carry the Bill for Raising a Publick Levy to the Council Do also Carry a Coppy of the said Resolve To the Council and Desire their Concurrence thereunto.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 40.
An Act of Assembly for Fryday November the 28th 1712.
That the Severall persons to whom Money Allotments are made in the Book of Claims be paid their Respective Allowances out of the Moneys that shall arise from the act Laying Impositions upon Liquors and Slaves next after the Money first Appropriated for the Governor's House And the Money appropriated for Bruton Parish Church And for the Prison shall be paid.
And that the Said payments be made in Order following (To wit) The Allowances made to the Officers of the Last Session of Assembly in the first place The Allowances make to the Officers of this Session of Assembly in the next place And then the Rest of ye Said Allowances in the Order they Stand in the Said Book of Claims
Ordered That the persons that Carryed the Resolve relating to the Money Appropriated to ye Governors House And the Bill for Raising a Publick Levy To the Council Do also Cary to the Council the Resolve of this House Relating to the Payments to be made To the Severall persons to whom Money Allowances are made in the Book of Claims and Desire their Concurrence thereunto.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1680-1714, Vol. 1, page 552.
70.Friday November the 28th 1712.
A message from the House of Burgesses to the Council by Mr Robinson and others who brought a Resolve for appropriating the Sum of nine hundred pounds for finishing the Governors house, and also A bill Entituled...
Resolved and Accordingly Ordered
That for payment of the Debt due upon the Governors house, more than the money already appropriated will pay, and for finishing the said House and the Appurtenances to it belonging The sum of nine hundred pounds be appropriated out of the Fund that shall arise from the Act made this Session…
Colonial Papers
Box 1710-1720, folder 1712 (Virginia State Library Archives)
70a.
Saturday November the 20th 1712 pr Contra. Creditor By his Disbursments for materials, Artificers Sallarys, and dyet, as pr his perticular Account - torn torn By the Committee for Public Claims.
Upon Consideration of the Severall Accounts laid before the House by the Overseers for building the Governor's house, Reftorn this Committee to Inspect and Examin they Do find and Accordingly Report that the Said Accounts Appears to this Committee to be as they are above Stated and Set down.
Test. Miles Cary Cl. Comtee
PALACE
WILLIAM NELSON LETTERBOOK 1766-1775 (Photostat Colonial National Historical Park, Yorktown)
p. 52 [William Nelson to "Edwd Athawes Esqr & Son" of London]
Virginia Nover 24th 1767
Gentlemen,
…
There is an Affair happen'd, which gives me great uneasiness & Chagrine. The Governour imported this Year in the M[aderia] Packet 6 pipes of Wine 5 of which were delivered to him: the other marked F4F different from the others, was Intended, I believe, for his brother & was therefore not sent to Wmsburg by his order, but was Supposed to be landed in my Store or the Collector's till the Ship should be ready to take it on again; but when Capt Innis came to receive those Wines, this Pipe was not among them nor was it inquired for as I was not at home. The Truth is, it was not landed at either Store, the Consequence must be, that it was Sent away with some other Wines by Mistake to Rappa or some where else… WN
Ibid., page 137]
[Letter from William Nelson to Francis Fauquier, Esqr son of the late Lt. Gov.]
71.Virginia Septr 16th 1769
Sir
Before this reaches you, I hope you will have received the Wines &ca 70b Ship't you by the Thos Capt Hubbard... You will observe that the Ullage of the Wines is very great; But, Length of time will always occasion a good deal; what might happen from those, of whom he yr Father hspibly [sic] entertain'd too Good an opinion, cant be answered for: But this I am sure of: that immediately after his Death, We had new Doors made to the Wine Houses & the Key hath been ever since kept by Mr Carter: so that if there hath been any foul Play, it was before We had Possession of the Keys... Lord Botetourt, who bought of the Furniture &ca to the Value of abt £800 is to pay next Month, when you may expect We shall make the Remittance to you. …
Lord Botetourt is the most amiable Man in the world to the Virginians; tho he was obliged to dissolve the Assembly. They consider him as acting under Instructions: yet they admire & revere him for his good Qualities and love their Governour…
Official Letters of Alex. Spotswood
Vol. II, page 8
Letter to Earl of Dartmouth
February 11th, 1712 (1713)I shall conclude y'r Trouble of this Letter by in forming y'r Lord'p that I have obtain'd of the Gen'l Assembly a further sum of £900 for furnishing the Gover't house, w'th w'ch, (tho' given on a distant fund), I hope to compleat that work before the Expiration of the time for w'ch her Maj'tie hath been graciously pleas'd to continue my Allowance of house rent.
Official Letters of Alex. Spotswood
Vol. II, page 12.
Letter to Comrs. of Trade
February 11th, 1713After my grateful acknowledgm'ts to y'r Lord'ps for y'r favourable recommendat'n, upon w'ch I am satisfy'd I owe her Maj't's Bounty in continuing to me ye allowance for house rent for two y'rs longer, I am now to acquaint y'r Lord'ps that I have obtain'd in the Gen'l Assembly a further Sum of nine hundred pounds for finishing the house for the Gov'r, and hope with that money to compleat it within the time her Maj'tie has been pleas'd to limit my Allowance, and am so far from postponing the work for the Lucre of that house rent, that tho' the Money given by the Assembly is rais'd on a distant Fund, which cannot be expected to come in at least two y'rs (because it is anticipated for the payment of former debts) I still continue the workmen upon my own credit…
Calendar of State Papers, America & West Indies
1712-14, page 134.
72.Letter of Spotswood to Council of Trade February 11, 1713
(Same in Spotswood Letters)
See - Letter to Comrs of Trade, Vol. II, p. 12.
Official Letters of Alex. Spotswood
Vol. II, page 56.
Letter to Comrs. of Trade
March 9th, 1713.I gave y'r lo'ps an acc't in my last of the confidence the Assembly had placed in me with relation to tow particulars of considerable importance, the one for finishing of Govern'r's House with limitation of the Sum, w'ch Y'r Lo'ps will find in the Act to empower John Holloway and John Clayton, Gent to receive the money paid for Lotts in Williamsburg, etc.
Official Letters of Alex. Spotswood
Vol. II, page 66, 67.
73.Letter to Col. Blakiston
March 15, 1713.I have reason to be satisfyed with the measure you took for obtaining my last allowance of house rent, since they prov'd so successful, at least, before I send any Memorial of my own, I shall wait the effect of my Lord Orkney's applications, to which you may with a great deal of truth add that I am now in disburse, for carrying on the building of the House; upwards of £ 600, and must still advance a larger Sum, or suffer it to lie unfinished…
Hening's Statutes at Large
Vol. 4, page 49.
November 1713.
An Act to empower John Holloway, and John Clayton, gentlemen, to receive of the Trustees for the City of Williamsburg, and of all other persons whatsoever all monies by them received for Lots of Land, and otherwise, for the benefit of the said City, and the sum of two hundred and one pounds nine shillings and nine pence of Robert Carter, Esq., and to apply such monies to certain uses; and also impowering them to keep the accounts of the Governor's House, and directing the finishing of the same.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 68.
74.An Act of Assembly for Tuesday December the 8th 1713.
A Message by Robertson
I am Commanded by the Governor to Deliver to this House a written Message relating to the Overseer of the Governours House and his Accompts and he presented the Same to the House.
Calendar of State Papers
Vol. 1, page 171.
Dec. 8th 1713
Mr. Speaker and Gentlemen of the House of Burgesses
I have now ordered the overseer of the Governor's house to attend you with his Accompts, that you may thereby observe the Building has been carryed on, notwithstanding, no part of the nine hundred pounds you last appropriated is yet raised, for the allowing no interest for that sum might pass for frugal management- Yet I judge it would still be ill Husbandry to suffer Unfinished Works to stand long exposed, and an overseer's Sallary to run on, while nothing was doing, or at best to hire Workmen upon Credit; And therefore wherever any money has been wanting I have supplyed it-What now remains to be finished may, in my opinion, be either let out, or performed by so few workmen, as the Country needs no longer be at the Expense of an Overseer; for I will take care of the work, if these Gentlemen who are entrusted with the Repairs of the Capitol, or some others, have the charge of the Accompts.
A. Spotswood.
[Also: Colonial Papers, Box 1710-1720, folder 1712 (Virginia State Library, Archives.]
75.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 69.
76.An Act of Assembly for Tuesday December the 8th 1713.
Then the House proceeded to the Consideration of the Governors Message of this Day And the Same was Read as followeth Vizt
Mr. Speaker and Gentlemen of the House of Burgesses
I have now Ordered the Overseer of the Governors House to Attend you with his Accompts that you may thereby observe the Building has been carryed on notwithstanding no part of the nine hundred pounds you last appropriated is yet Raised for tho the Allowing no Interest for that Sum might pass for Frugall Management Yet I judge it would Still be ill Husbandry to Suffer Unfinished Works to stand long exposed, And an overseer's Sallary to Run while nothing was Doing, or at best to hire Workmen upon Credit; And therefore where ever any Money has been wanting I have Supplyed it.-
What now remains to be finished may, in my opinion, be either let out, or performed by So few Workmen, as the Country needs no longer be at the Expense of an Overseer for I will take care of the Works if those Gentlemen who are intrusted with the Repaire of ye Capitol, or Some others have the Charge of the Accompts.
A. Spotswood.
Ordered That the Overseer of the Governors House Do lay before this House his Accompts
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Pages 70-71
An Act of Assembly for Wednesday December the 9th 1713.
Mr. Soane Reported from the Committee to whom it was Refer'd to Inspect and Examine the Accounts of the Overseer of the Governours House that they have accordingly Examined the Said Accompts and find the Same to be Right.
Then the House proceeded to the Consideration of that part of the Governors Message of yesterday which Relates to the finishing the Governors House And the Same was Read and thereupon
Resolved That the Governor be Desired that he would be pleased to take care of Finishing the Work And that the Overseer be Discharged
Ordered That a Clause be brought in to be added to the Bill to Impower John Holloway and John Clayton Gentlemen to Receive of the Trustees for the City of Williamsburgh And of all other persons whatsoever All Moneys by them Received for Lotts of Land And otherwise for the benefit of the Said City And the Sum of Two hundred and one pounds Nine shillings and Nine Pence of Robert Carter Esquire And to Apply Such Moneys to certain uses Also to Impower them the Said John Holloway and John Clayton to have the charge of the Accompts for Finishing the Governors House
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Pages 73.
77.An Act of Assembly for Saturday December the 12th 1713.
An Act to Impower John Holloway and John Clayton Gent to Receive of the Trustees for the City of Williamsburg And of all other persons whatsoever All Moneys by them Received for Lots of Land and otherwise for the benefit of the Said City And the Sum of Two hundred and one Pounds Nine Shillings and Nine pence of Robert Carter Esqr And to Apply Such Moneys to certain uses. And also Impowering them to keep the Accompts of the Governors House and Directing the finishing of the Same.
Official Letters of Alex. Spotswood
Vol. II, page 51.
Letter to Comrs. of Trade
December 29, 1713.They / the Assembly/ have likewise placed a further confidence in me, by allowing me, without any controul, to finish the Govern'r's Ho., and by agreeing that without limiting the Sum, ye Charge thereof shall be paid out of the dutys on liquors and slaves... and they know that for carrying on the work of the House in the cheapest manner I Am already in disburse the last sum they appropriated, w'ch was £900, and that without any interest, and the funds being so far anticipated for other urgent occasions y't it will be a considerable time before I can be repaid, or any more money rec'd for finishing this Work. I hope y'r Lord'ps will therefore judge it reasonable that my house rent be continued.
Calendar of State Papers, America & West Indies
1712-14, page 278.
Letter of Spotswood to Council of Trade
December 29, 1713.[Same as above]
Calendar of State Papers, America and West Indies
1712-14, page 304.
78.Letter of Spotswood to Council of Trade
March 9, 1714.I gave your Lordps. an account in my last of the confidence the Assembly had placed in me, with relation to two particulars of considerable importance, the one for finishing the Governor's house without limitation of the summ which your Lordps. will find in the Act to impower John Holloway and John Clayton, gent. to receive the money paid for lotts in Williamsburgh.
Calendar of State Papers, America & West Indies
1714-15, page 33.
Letter of Spotswood to Council of Trade
Oct. 25, 1714.… and the night concluded with an entertainment at my house for all the Gentlemen in Town, where H. M. health was drank with the fireing of guns…
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726 Page 101.
[Also: William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series, vol. 21, p. 250]
An Act of Assembly for Friday December the 10th 1714.
I have ordered Mr. John Tyler to attend with his Accompts of the Governors house, for the time that he was overseer of that building.
Letter of Spotswood.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 105.
79.An Act of Assembly for Wednesday December the 3th 1714.
Ordered that Mr. John Tyler's Accompts of the Governors House be Inspected by the Committee of Clams, and that they do Report to the House what they find necessary thereupon.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
Vol. 1, page 586. 1680-1714.
Saturday December ye 18th, 1714.
The Committee appointed Yesterday to wait on the Governor Reported that they had Accordingly waited on his Honr at the Palace to know when and where he would be attended...
William and Mary Quarterly, 1st Series
Vol. 21, page 251.
Notes from the Journal of the House of Burgesses
Dec. 24, 1714.
Mr. John Tyler's accompts of the Governor's House reported to show a balance of 238.10.1 due him.
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 21, page 355.
80.Randolph Manuscript
Instructions to Earl of Orkney, 1715.And for as much as we have thought fit for the Dignity of the Government that a House be built for our Governor or commander in chief, for defraying of which Expence a Levy has been made, You are to hasten the Building and fitting up such a House if not already done-
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1705-1721, Vol. III, page 399.
At a Council held at Williamsburg the 26th of May 1715.
That for furnishing such arms as are most fit for Service the musquetts now in the Governors hall being a hundred & sixty in number, & in very good order be sent to South Carolina-
Ludwell Papers
Vol. II.
Williamsburg Apll. 18, 1717.81.Hond Sir
Yours I recd concerning my forbidding the Governor to cutt my Wood and if you please to give me leave, shall faithfully tell you the whole matter. I happened to be at the Governors, and he was pleased to ask my consent, to cut down some trees that grew on My land to make an opening, I think he called it a vista and told me would cut nothing but what was only fitt for the fire, and for that he would pay me as much as any one gave for firewood, to please his honour, I told him he might if he pleased cutt such Trees down, Sometime after I happened to dine with him, and he then told me there was a Swamp that did belong to me in which grew a great deale of wood, and alledged it would never be of much Service to me, by reason I could not come at it with a Cart without going through his pasture; (but that was a mistake)
…
As to the Clearing his vista he cut down all before him such a wideness as he thought fitt. amongst which there was two very good oak Timber Trees, that my Tenant had reserved to cover my Tenement...Honble Sir
Yr most Obedt Servant
Jno. Custis.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
May 1, 1705-October 23, 1721
Vol. III, page 433.
November ye third 1716.
To the Governor half a Years house rent Ending the same time Seventy five Pounds.
Upon Signing this Warrant the Governor declared that the said allowance of House Rent being according to her Majtys Orders determined the day of June last past he desir'd it might be oberv'd on the Journal that he did not Claim the same for any longer time but that the Recr Genll having made up his accounts with the whole half Years allowance of House Rent therein and there not being time to alter the Transcribe the said Accounts he had thought fit to Sign the said Warrant as it was prepared but that Credit Should be given in the next Account of the Revenue for so much of the said Seventy five Pounds as should appear to be over Charged.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 203.
An Act of Assembly for Thursday May the 22d 1718.82.Resolved: That a written message be prepared to the Governor desiring his Honour to Informe this House wheather the Governours House be finished and if not what further Sume may be necessary to be Expended in finishing the same.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 205.
An Act of Assembly for Fryday May ye 23d 1718.
Mr. Corbin reported that the persons appointed had according to Order carryed the Message of this House to the Governour desiring him to inform them whether the Governours house be finisht and if not what further Sumes of money may be necessary to finish the same and that his Honour was pleased to return the following Answer. It is not finisht and I don't know how much it will take and thereupon.
Resolved That a Committee be appointed to wait on the Governor and desire him to shew them what further is to be done to the Governour's house. To the end a Computation may be made of the Expence further necessary for finishing the same and the other works appointed by Law and that they make report to this house in writing.
/names of Committee follow/
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 206.
83.An Act of Assembly for Saturday, May the 24th 1718.
"May it please your Honour.
"Wee are ordered by the House of Burgesses to wait on yor Honour and desire you will be pleased to shew us what is to be done to perfect the Buildings and other works directed by law for the Governour of this Colony to which his Honour was pleased to return Answer."
William and Mary College Quarterly, 2nd Series
Vol. 10, page 249.
Memorandm For His Excellncy
There was by the last Assembly men appointed to view the Governrs house and to make a report of what charge was absolutely necessary for its repair which the Governr was not Pleased wth it being the first time That they had given themselves that Trouble for it was usual before for the Governr to make what Alterations or Repairs he thought Convenent & his Accts were allowd. But this time it was done wth a very small charge I think the Undertaker had abt £18 to be layd out upon the house only. The fine gardens Fish Pond &cr Are not so much regarded as Formerly.
(not signed)
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 213.
84.An Act of Assembly for Wednesday, May ye 28th 1718.
A Bill to repeal part of an act made in the Twelfth year of her late Majesty Queen Ann for finishing the Governours house and for granting to his Honour the Sume of Two hundred and fifty pounds for perfecting the work was by leave of the House presented and read the first time and ordered to be read a Second time
The House having considered the Scheme referred to be considered on this Day. Accounts of the Governours House and other Buildings-
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1715-1753.
Vol. 11, page 622.
Thursday May the 29th 1718.
A message from the Burgesses to the Council by Mr Harrison and others who brought a Bill Entituled An Act to repeal part of an Act made in the twelfth year of her late Majesty Queen Anne for finishing the Governour's house and for granting to His Honour the Sum of two hundred & fifty pounds for perfecting the said work To which they desire the Councils Concurrence
And the said Bill was Read the first time &
Ordered a Second Reading.
Manuscripts and Autographs
V-V, Va. Histo. Soc., page 45.
(1718)
Whereas by an Act of Assembly of this Colony made at the Royall Capitol in Williamsburgh in the 12th year of her late most Excellent Majesty Intituled an Act to Impower John Holloway, & John Clayton Gentlement to Receive of the Trustees for the City of Williamsburg & all other persons whatever all moneys by them received for Lots of Land & otherwise for the benefit of the said Citty & the Sum of Two hundred & one pounds Nine Shillings & Nine pence of Robert Carter Esqr And to apply Such moneys to Certain uses and also impowering them to keep the accounts of the Governors House & directing the finishing of the same It is (eut alia ?) Enacted That the Honorable the Lieut. Governor of this Colony may Employ Such & So many Workmen & Labourers & provide & furnish Such materials & other things as he shall Judge necessary & convenient for the Compleating & finishing the Said Building & Work and that whatever Sume or Sumes of money Should be laid out & Expended by the Order and direction of the Said Lieut. Governor for the 85. Uses and purposes aforesaid should be & were thereby ordered & appointed to be Satisfied & paid out of the moneys arising by the Duty on Liquors & Slaves next after the money then appropriated out of the Said Duty Should be fully Satisfied & paid. And whereas a great Sume of money may be expended by Virtue of the Said Act contrary to the true Intent & Meaning thereof Be it Enacted by the Lieut. Govr. Council & Burgesses of the present Assembly and it is hereby Enacted by the Authority of the Same That all & every Clause & Clauses in the said Act which respect (?) the Compleating & finishing the Said Building & Work be & are hereby repealed & made void to all Intents Constructions & Purposes whatsoever And Be it hereby Enacted by authority aforesaid, That the Sume of ___________ be allowed & paid to the Honoble the Lieut. Governor of this Colony to Enable him to compleat & finish the Said Building and Work and the Honoble the Lieut Governor is hereby impowered & ordered to issue his Warrt to the present Treasurer for the Said Sume who is hereby required to pay the Same accordingly.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia
1712-1726, page 228.
86.An Act of Assembly for Thursday November 20th 1718.
That there is a Warrant in the Treasurers Accots to John Holloway Esqr for two hundred pounds towards finishing the Governor's house… That he had waited on the Governor for those Accompts, and that his Honour told him, he did not expect to be called on for the Sd Accots, and therefore had not them ready.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 231.
An Act of Assembly for Friday November the 21st 1718.
The said Instructions as amended & agreed to by the House are as follow
Instructions to William Byrd Esqr Agent for the Colony of Virginia
…
3. His Construction of the Law for finishing the Governors house, whereby he lavishes away the countrys money, contrary to the intent of the Law, and even beyond what the words of the Law will bear and hath hitherto refused any Redress therein.
Calendar of State Papers, America & West Indies
1717-18, page 435.
Instructions to Wm. Byrd, Agent of Va.
Nov. 21, 1718.His construction of the law for finishing of the Governor's House, whereby he lavishes away the country's money contrary to the intent of the law…
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 23, page 76.
87.Virginia Addresses
A Fourth was whether by a misinterpretation of an act of Asembly the Governour should have power to call for what money he pleased out of their Treasury, to be spent about his House, Gardens, Fish Ponds, &c. after he had made them believe that £ 250 would finish all, Instead of which he has already called for £ 1600, and they see no End of his further Demands.
(Complaint against Spotswood)
Public Record Office, London
C05 #1318.
91.Reced with Colo Spotswood Letter of 25th March 1719.
Reced May 18th ) 1719
Read June ye 23d )Copy of Colo Spotswood's Answer to the four Articles exhibited by the Burgesses of Virginia in Maintenance of their Complaint against him, contained in their late Adress to His Majesty,
Anno 1718 A.B.C.D.
ARTICLE II
His Construction of ye Laws for Finishing ye Governor's House, whereby He Lavishes away the country's Money, contrary to the Intent of the Law, & even beyond what the words of the Law will bear, and hath hitherto refused any redress therein.
ANSWER
This Article is matter of Astonishment to me, when I consider the presumption of my Adversarys Application, in offering to my Dread Sovereign a Complaint which they very well know is so groundless that, without some singular Artificers, they could not have obtain'd its passage with ye Burgesses here; And that they Intend nothing less than a fair & orderly Tryal upon it, is evident to whoever reads my two Messages (of ye 22d & 28th of November, 1718,) wherein I press my Accusers to explain themselves upon this Article; & their Answers, whereby They tell me in short that they will not let me know what they mean by their general charge of Lavishing away the Country's Money about ye Governor's House. Being then put to guess at ye sence & meaning of this Article, & what it is They design to alledge for a Misconstruction of ye Law, or for a Refusal of Redress, I can do not otherwise than trouble your Lordship's with a Random Defence, & must be obliged to lay open some indirect practices on this head, in order to show that this Article consists of somewhat besides Truth & fair Dealing.
The Act pass'd in 1713 for Finishing ye Governor's House "Impowered me to employ such & so many Workmen & Labourors, & "to provide & furnish such materials & other Things, as I should "judge necessary and convenient for the Compleating & Finishing "ye Building & Work. And all Sums of Money 88. laid out by my Order "& Direction, for the Uses & purposes aforesaid, were appointed "by that Act Authorized & Impower'd Messieurs Holloway & Clayton "to take and keep Ye accompts of all the Moneys which should be "laid out & expended for & towards ye Finishing the said House & "Works.
From hence I conceive that the two gentlemen named in the Act, are to answer to the Cavils that may be made to their Accompts; & yt what lyes upon me to Clear is Matter of Fact, which must be found & proved by an Enquiry upon the Spot, ere any Judge in Europe can be ripe for a Determination upon the Case: For if I am question'd upon the Discharge of my Trust, I am to make appear yt I have directed no other Work to be Carry'd on, than what was projected before the passing this Law; That I have ordered no extravagant Rates to be paid, or extraordinary Work to be performed; & that the Men & Materials have been duely employed & expended in Finishing the Governr House, with its appurtenances, & no otherwise. Now how can all this be proved in any place, but where the Building can be viewed, ye Rates compared & the workmen Examined? For my part I am ready for the Enquiry, & do pretend to put it on a Stricter footing than I am obliged; by not only showing that I have no more than Continued what had been actually begun, or for which preparations had been made; but by also demonstrating that the Artificers & Labourors have wrought for wages much under what are generally given in this Country at Private Buildings: And should I descend to particular Remarks on the Management of this Building since my time, I could point out such Generosity on my part towards carrying it on, as heartily grieves me now to have bestow'd, since I perceive the ungratefull Return that these people make me for the same. But as I think it not fitting to trouble Yr Lordships with little particulars, so neither do I see there is any need thereof, since taking their clamour in gross, it appears upon the face of the Accompt. which they would presume to perplex his Majesty with, to be unreasonable & ungenerous, For deducting the Credit given, and sundry Sums which ought to have been brought into the Overseers Accompt before my time, it will be found that from Christmas 1713, to this day, I have expended about their Building and Gardens but little above Two Hundred pounds pr annum. A mighty sum indeed, to demonstrate that I have Lavished away the TREASUR of a PROVINCE! and at such a time too, when their publick Treasury so abounds in Cash, that they have chosen to place Ten Thousand pounds out at Interest for Two pr cent yearly proffit. But what is still more surprizing, is that these very men having in their former Session agreed (after they had seen the accompts given in) to allow towards ye Work £ 250 over & above the Money then found 89. to be Expended, do yet nevertheless exhibit now a Charge against Me for Lavishing away their Treasure, even before I have exceeded what They themselves thought reasonable to appropriate, & notwithstanding I have hitherto drawn for no more than £ 200 of that sum.
I know not what They mean by my having hitherto Refused any Redress in this Complaint, for I'm sure no one of their Articles surprised me more, than this, when I saw it exhibited against Me; I till then taking the Country in General, by the Conversation I held with the Gentlemen thereof, to be delighted with ye Building, & having been used to hear nothing but Commendations of the Contrivances & Frugality of the Works. Tis true these Burgesses brought in a Bill to Repeal ye Law for Finishing the House, but if it never passed ye Council, I cannot be taxed with Refusing my assent to it; and if I declined entering into Conversation with three or four of their Members, who came on the 24th of May last to Discourse with Me about ye Works of the House, I then did plainly let them understand that I excepted against the Men and not their Business. And their Speaker & Many of their Members must own that about that time I often walked & freely talked with them concerning the Works then in hand, & offered, if ye Assembly did not care to be at ye Expence of the Fish-Pond & Falling Gardens, to take them to my Self; these improvements happening to be upon the Town Land & such as would to long want Purchasers. Besides from the first moment I discovered yt any Burgesses were disposed to cavil at the Expense of ye Building, I slackened my hand in carrying on the Works, & thereupon frequently & Publickly said, Let them hire again an Overseer (which expence I have saved them for five Years past) to finish after their own fancys what remains to be done, & upon settling a reasonable Fund for keeping all in Repair, I will surrender ye Trust & Power, that I am by Law possed'd of for Compleating ye Governors House.
I might add a great deal more in justification of my stewardship, but until I learn what my Adversarys pretend to fault therein or unless They will please to let me understand what I am to answer to before your Lordships upon this head, 'tis odds but I shoot besides the Mark, which they may set up. For I apprehand yt they will endeavour to play me as false a part at home to make good this Article, as they acted here to exhibit it. And to explain this Assertion, I must inform Your Lordships that contrary to all practice of former Assemblys (wherein ye Standing Committee of Claims always used to Examine publick Accompts) a Select committee of four of the most prejudiced Members were set to examine these accompts of the publick Building; and privately at their own lodgings having 90. pull'd to pieces plain quarterly accounts that had their proper vouchers laid in order to justify each Article, They presented to ye Consideration of ye House a Scheme (as they call'd it) maliciously calculated to startle & puzle the weaker sort of Members, ye same being drawn up after a confused unintellgible manner, with some wilfull Errors & spitefull Mistakes of their own, & formed upon the supposition of a Mansion-House Kitchin & Stable (as the first Act described) being all that was to be built. And to carry on the Deceit, ye Second Act passed in 1710, which allows an Orchard, Gardens and other Appurtenances, was conveyed away ½ not to be met with in the office: So that by this Concealment They found means to possess some members that what the first Act directed, was all that I was Impower'd to finish, And yet further not contented with imposing upon some Mens understanding in this Mater, ye Managers thought their game was not sure enough unless they stirred up the Burgesses Resentment too; ½ for that end a very unfair and displeasing Misreport of a Message, which I had sent by Mr. Clayton concerning the Accompt, was contriv'd to be made to ye House just as they were entring upon their Impeachment.
But in fine, supposing I stood mute upon this Article, what is therein it, that can with any propriety be understood to be a subverting the Constitution, a Depriving people of their Ancient Rights and Priviledges, or a daily Exercising Hardships on His Majestys Good Subjects? Which is ye Charge that my accusors are to prove.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 233.
An Act of Assembly for Monday November the 24th 1718.
As I am well satisfyed that many of your absent Members did not expect any such proceedings nor would have concurred in these measures, I therefore take occasion to let you know that as soon as you have Summoned all your Members to attend and have got together a full house, I shall lay before you & fully explain some matters which seem to have been misunderstood by the greater part of your House, and which I am perswaded will serve to vindicate my self from the charge laid against me, and the Country from the Imputation of being a discontented people. In the mean time I desire you to proceed to some determinations on the Accounts of the Governors house which were laid before you Six months ago, That if any objection to the particular Articles should be the occasion of your not passing them in form, the same may be examined now while the persons concerned, are alive and present who can best answer your doubts. And I desire you will not be diverted by the Artifices of those who have misreported to you my Answer to the message sent me by Mr. Clayton relating to those Accounts
A. Spotswood
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Pages 239, 240.
92.An Act of Assembly for Friday November the 28th 1718.
The Treatment I have mett in relation to the Accounts of the Govrs House will astonish all Mankind, but those, who have occasioned that proceeding of yours. When you asked for the late Accots of that Building I sent a Message to yor Committee that I expected yor House would examine & pass those which had remained so long before you, ere you took the trouble of inspecting new ones.
[Message of Spotswood]
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 241.
Saturday November 29th 1718.
In about an hour after I went to the Capitol, and Mr. Corbin and I did search the sd Journal, where we found an Entry to the Effect following; The House having considered the Scheme referr'd to be considered on this day Ordered that the same be Lodged in the Office of the House of Burgesses, with the Accounts of the Governor's house and other Buildings.
[John Clayton]
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 241.
93.An Act of Assembly for Saturday November 29th 1718.
… and told me he came from the Committee for an account of the money issued since the last Session for the use of the Governors house.
… Ordered that the same be Lodged in the Office of the House of Burgesses, with the accounts of the Governor's house and other Buildings-
[Letter of John Clayton]
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia
May 1, 1705-October 23, 1721
Vol. III, page 498.
At a Council held the 17th day of April 1719.
The Governor acquainted the Council that some of the Works about the Governors house not being finished will be in danger of being spoyled if care be not taken to compleat the same. That since the house of Burgesses' have thought fitt to fault his management of the said works, and judged the finishing what the Law has directed; to be lavishing away the Country's money, he might very well content himself with letting those works lye exposed to the injury of weather which will soon render useless all the Expence which hath been laid out upon them, were it not for the Concern both for the Honors and Interest of the Countrey that so much Labour & Cost should not be altogether rendered fruitless & vaine. And therefore he now proposed to the Consideration of this Board whether they think it advisable that those works as are begun about the said House, and may be in danger of becoming useless for want of being completed ought to be finished with all convenient Speed.
Official Letters of Alex. Spotswood
Vol. II, page 323.
94.Letter to Lords of Trade
May ye 26th, 1719.I have here likewise Enclosed an Acco't of the produce of the Dutys on Liquors and slaves from the year 1710 to the Determination of the Law in Dec'r, 1718, By w'ch Your Lord'ps may observe that after finishing a House for the Governor, (w'ch was little more than begun when that duty was laid,)…
Hening's Statutes at Large
Vol. 4, page 95.
November 1720.
An Act to empower Henry Cary, gentleman, to finish the House of the Governor of the Colony and Dominion of Virginia.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 268.
An Act of Assembly for Tuesday November the 15th 1720.
Ordered
That the Several Accounts of money Expended for repairing the Capitol and building the Governours House, Since the last assembly be laid before this House-
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 275.
An Act of Assembly for Tuesday November the 22d 1720.
Mr. Clayton laid before the House Several Accounts of the Disbursements in the Building the Governors House, the Church, Magazine and Prison.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 277.
95.Wednesday November 23d 1720.
That a Committee be appointed to attend the Governour and desire him to Communicate to them what he thinks proper to be done for the finishing the Governours House Gardens and other works which he is Impowered by Law to finish and to view all the Improvements that have been made Since Christmas 1717 in the Gardens for the Ornament and preservation thereof and to compute the Charge of the whole and report their Opinions therein to the House; and it is referd to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Pages 283, 284.
96.An Act of Assembly for Tuesday November 29th 1720.
In answer to your Message desiring me to Communicate to Your Committee what I think proper to be done for finishing the Governors House Gardens and other works which I am Impowed (Impowered) by Law to finish, I take Occasion to remind you how I became Vested with that Power and What has followed thereupon.
You May observe by the Journals of your House in the year 1713 as well as by a Law passed the same Session That I was desired by the Burgesses to take upon me the Care of carrying on and finishing the said works: In compliance with their Request and in order to save to the publick the annual Expence of One Hundred Pounds which had been paid to an Overseer for eight years before (even during the time when the Building was entirely at a Stand) I did undertake the Trouble of providing Workmen, Labourers and Materials and of directing and Inspecting their work but I made it an Express Condition that other persons should have Charge of the Accounts-
However being obliged to advance my own money to pay the workmen by reason of the deficiency of the Revenue at that time I was drawn in to take Minutes of Disbursements and to keep Vouchers of the Greatest part of the Accounts, so that the Two Gentl'm who were appointed of that purpose could not when called upon by the Assembly make up the Accounts of the Building without my assistance.
. . .
Whereupon you'l Excuse me if I decline all future Concern in these works and whoever you are pleased to appoint to Oversee them may inform you what still remaines to be done as he or they may likewise have in Charge if you think fit to get justly computed and valued the Works of the Gardens that are left unrated, Especially since it seems to be too Troublesome an Affair for your Committee to set about the computation thereof and that I am loath to offer any valuation of my own Gardeners and Servants performances.(Letter of Spotswood)
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 200.
Monday December the 5th 1720.
That Mr. Corbin, Mr. Blair, and Mr. Stith do inspect the Governours House and other buildings which the Governor is Impowered by Law to finish And that Mr. Cary be desired to attend them and to Compute the Charge of what is further necessary to be done therein And that the said Committee report the same to the House-
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 293.
Thursday December the 8th 1720.
Mr. Corbin reports That the persons appointed had accordingly to Order Inspected the Governours House and other Buildings and that Mr. Henry Cary attended them and had computed the Charge of what is further necessary to be done therein which amounts to fifty Two pounds Eleven Shillings and Six pence and delivered an Estimate thereof in at the Table.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 293.
97.Thursday December the 8th 1720.
Resolved:
That a Bill be prepared to Impower Mr Henry Cary to finish the Governours House and other works according to the Estimate thereof and to take Such measures for draining the Water that falls from the Eves as shall be proper and for repealing that Clause of the Law which Impowers The Governour to finish the Said House and works.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 296.
An Act of Assembly for Saturday December the 10th 1720.
A Bill to Impower Henry Cary Gent to finish the House of the Governr of the Colony and Dominion of Virginia was read the first time-
Resolved
That the Bill be read a Second time.-
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 297.
97a.Saturday December the 10th. 1720.
Mr Grymes reports That the persons appointed had according to order Inspected and Examined the Accounts of the Governours house and Gardens, the Church, Magazine and prison and that they find due to the Governour on Balance the Sum of four hundred Sixty nine pounds Two Shillings and nine pence half penny.
…
A bill to Impower Henry Cary, Gent to finish the House of the Governor of the Colony and Dominion of Virginia was read the second time.Resolved
That the Bill be Ingrossed.
April 25, 1945
To:
Mr. Perry
Mr. Kendrew
Mr. Goodwin
From: Martha Davis
In a letter dated April 4th Mr. Ray Shaw wrote to Mr. Chorley as follows concerning Mr. Ashton's comment about the Sedan chair.
"I wonder if he was right about the Sedan chair. Here in Bath they were used to carry bathers upstairs to their beds and special gaps were made in the turns of some of the staircases in order to make room for them, and I feel almost certain that they were often left in big halls to save trouble, servants never having been too energetic."
Mr. Chorley thought you gentlemen would be interested in what Mr. Shaw had to say on the subject.
M V D
MVD
Copy to N. Y.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 297.
An act of Assembly for Monday December 12th 1720.
Ordered
That the Estimate of the Charge of finishing the Governours House be Entered on the Journal which is as follows:-
450 yards painting on the roof of the House at 12d £22..10..0 4 yards Ditto on the Side board Shutter 4..0 White washing the passage and private Staires and mending the plastering in the Billiard Room 1.. 5..0 Paving One Vault with Brick 2.. 0..0 Turning 4 Arches over the Vault doores 6.. 0..0 ffinishing a Partition in the Cellar 0.. 7..6 Altering the Balcony doores to hang on the Outside 0..15..0 Covering the flatt roof with Pitch, Sand, and Lime and laying a ffloor of Plank over the Same 12.. 0..0 *ffinishing the Bannio 1..10..0 Changing Ladders to Secure against ffire 6..00..0
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1715-1753, Vol. 11, pages 652, 653.
99.Tuesday December 13th 1720.
A message to the Council by Mr Clayton & others who brought a Bill Entituled An Act for supply of certain defects found in an Act prescribing the method of appointing sherifs Also a Bill Entituled An Act to empower Henry Cary Gent to finish the House of the Governor of the Colony & Dominion of Virginia:
…
A Bill Entituled An Act to impower Henry Cary Gent to finish the house of the Governor of the Colony & Dominion of Virginia were severally Read the first time, andOrdered a second Reading.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1715-1753, Vol. 11, page 654.
Friday December the 16th 1720
A Bill Entituled An Act to impower Henry Cary Gent to finish the house of the Governor of the Colony & Dominion of Virginia
Read the third time
Resolved
That the Bill do pass.
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1712-1726
Page 304.
Saturday December the 17th 1720
A Message from the Council That they have passed the Bill Intituled an Act to Impower Henry Cary Gent to finish the House of the Governour of the Colony and Dominion of Virginia.
William and Mary Quarterly, 1st series
Vol. 10, page 84.
Charter of Williamsburg, 1722.
Whereas a healthful, pleasant and commodious place… hath been appointed and laid out for a Town… called Williamsburg, … where our Capitol for the reception of our General Assembly and courts of Judicature and a commodious House for the reception of our Governor…
Ibid. Vol. 10, page 87.
100.Charter of Williamsburg, 1722.
Provided also that nothing herein contained shall be construed, deemed or taken to give any power… or any officer by them appointed to hold plea of any matter or Thing arising within the Bounds of the Land appropriated for the Governor's House, or to serve any process or Execution on any Person or Persons being within Governor's House, or of his Family without the licences of such Governor for the time being.
Beverley, Robert: History of Virginia, London: 1722
Page 234, 235.
Of the Building in Virginia (1722)
The third is a house for the Governor, not the largest, but by far the most beautiful of all the others. It was granted by the Assembly in Governor Nott's time, begun in President Jenning's time but received its beauty and conveniency from the many alterations and decorations, of the present Governor, Colonel Spotswood; who, to the lasting honor and happiness of the Country, arrived there, while this house was carrying up.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 18.
At a Council held June the 13th 1722.
…
An Account of the sundry Services done by Mr Cary of repairing the Governors House, & inclosing the Magazine, was laid before the Board, and Ordered to be paid out of his Majtys Revenue of 2s per hhd &c.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1721-1739
Vol. IV, page 31.
101.At a Council held at the Capitol April 26th 1723.
Whereas it has been representing to this Board that great part of the Arms in the Magazine and at the Governors House are much out of repair & unfit for Service; And whereas by the act of Assembly for Erecting the Magazine; the Salary Therein appointed for the Armourers expressly given for mending and repairing the Arms.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 34.
At a Council held at the Capitol May 2d 1723.
The several Accots of Henry Cary and John Brush for Work and Reparations about the Governors House being Eamd in Council, and they sworn respectively to the Trust thereof were Ordered to be paid out of his Majestys Revenue of 2s per hhd.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 41.
At a Council held at the Capitol May 30th 1723.
…
To sundry Charges about the Govrs House 111.0.4½
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia
1712-1726, pages 380, 381.
(Message of Drysdale)
Saturday June the 10, 1723.Upon examination of the Arms in the Magazine and Governors House…
I find great part of them very much out of Repair And in the Condition they now are Unfit for Service.
Palace Report, p. 108-a:
Robert Carter Letterbook, 1727 (mss., VHS)
102."Rappa. May 15th 1727"
[Attachment to letter probably to William Robertson, clerk of the Council]
"THE NECESSARYS REQUISITE FOR THE BIRTH NIGHT IN ALL RESPECTS EQUALLY THE LAST BIRTHNIGHT.
"The Govrs house to be Illuminated Mr. Claytons also and likewise the Capitol if it was so before I believe the Colledge and all the houses in Town will be also Illuminated
"Bonfires to be made as before.
"All the Loyal healths to be drunk. The Guns to be fired and the Batterys to fire. The flaggs to be hoisted [as] was ordered by Coll Drysdale.
"The Gentlemen and Ladys that will come to --- torn Invited. Cold Treats to be provided a Ball to be had for the [L]adys. The Gentlmen of the Council and their familys p[ar]ticularly to be invited Mr. Grimes' family I shall invite what ever I have Omitted to be Supplyd The charge and Co[st] to be kept of and paid of[f?] Mr. Grimes I expect will let me have the money. "My wine you may be free with I believe one of the Pipes will sufficiently answer the Occasion. Other Liquors &ca. you must provide as well as you can
"I am
"Sir[Robert Carter, President of the Council and acting governor, 1 Aug 1726 - 11 Sept 1727, between Drysdale & Gooch.]
[P. S.] "All Immaginable care must be taken to prevent disorders and disasters."
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1715-1753, Vol. 11, page 702
Wednesday June 19th 1723.
Resolved
That the sum of one hundred pounds out of the Publick money in the hands of the Treasurer be paid to the Governor to be employed in repairing the Arms in the Magazine and Governors House.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 56.
At a Council held at the Capitol October 31st 1723.
…
An Accot of sundry Charges for Reparation of the Govrs House was examd in Council and Ordered to be paid out of his Majtys Revenue of 2s per hhd Port Dutys and head money.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 57.
103.At a Council held at the Capitol November 5th 1723.
To sundry Accots for Reparation of the Govrs House 222.19.4
The/ Present State/ of/ Virginia/ ... by Hugh Jones, A.N./ Chaplain to the Honourable Assembly, and lately/ Minister of James Town, &c in Virginia/ London:/... MDCCXXIV.
Also: Howe, Henry History of Virginia Charleston, S.C., 1848 Page 323.
1724.
Public Buildings here of Note, are the College, the Capitol, the Governor's House, and the Church...
The palace, or governor's house, is a magnificent structure, finished, and beautified with gates, fine gardens, offices, walks, a fine canal, orchards &c with a great number of the best arms nicely posited by an ingenuous contrivence of Governor Spotswood's. It likewise has the ornamented addition of a good cupola or lantern, illuminating most of the town upon birthnights... These buildings are justly reputed the best in all English America, and are exceeded by few of their kind in England...
[illegible handwritten notes in margin]
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 69.
104.At a Council held at the Capitol May 6th 1724.
To the Charge of the Governors House 31.0.7¾
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 75.
At a Council held at the Capitol October ye 31st 1724.
Sundry Accots for Repairs about the Governors House were Examd and allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1721-1739, Vol. IV, page 76.
At a Council held at the Capitol November 5th, 1724.
To Wm Prentis for sundry contingent Charges £ 6 To Do for sundy Repairs about the Govrs House 51.16.9¾
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1721-1739, Vol. IV, page 85.
105.At a Council held at the Capitol May the 4th 1725.
To Henry Cary for Repairs about the Govers house £9.19.10¾
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 91.
At a Council held at the Capitol the 29th day of October 1725.
To Henry Cary for sundry repairs about the Governors house 24.7.10½
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 99.
At a Council held April the 28th 1726.
…
The Accompts of contingent Charges and for repairing the Governor's house were this day examined in Council and passed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 101.
106.At a Council held May the 3d 1726
To the same for sundry repairs about the Govrs House 13.9.-
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 114.
August the 2d 1726.
It is Resolved that a Message be sent to the late Govrs Lady in the name of the President and Council expressing the just sense they have as well of the publick Loss, as of her in particular by the death of the said Governor; that they heartily condole with her on this occasion; that they desire she will please to continue in the Governor's house, and make use of any other Conveniences about it during her stay here; and to assure her of the Council's readiness to do her Service, and that John Holloway Esqr and Archibald Blair Gent who manage her affairs be desired to deliver this message.
Ordered that mr Richard Hickman be and he is hereby appointed to have the care and inspication of the Govrs house and Gardens after Mrs. Drysdales removal thence, and for the better keeping the said Gardens in order John Grymes Esqr is desired to purchase of Mrs. Drysdale the remainder of the present Gardiner's time, and that he be employ'd in taking care of the said Gardens under the direction of Mr Hickman
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 23, 1739
Vol. IV, page 115.
107.August the 2d 1726.
It being represented to this Board that there are divers pieces of furniture belonging to the late Govr which are not only convenient, but ornamental to the Governor's house, His Maties Receiver Genl is desired to buy such of the said household furniture as he sees fit & for the purpose aforesaid to be paid out of his Maties Revenue of 2s per hhd.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 118
October the 28th 1726.
The Receiver Genl laid before this Board an accot of furniture bought of Mrs. Drysdale for the use of the Governor's house according to the directions of this Board, and the said accot was allowed.
Ordered that Thomas Crease be paid for his Service & labourers in assisting in putting in order the Gardens belonging to the Governor's house.
The Accot of contingent Charges, and an Accot for sundry repairs about the Governor's house were severally examined & allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 120.
108.At a Council held November 2d 1726.
To the same* for sundry repairs about the Governor's House 7.12.2
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1721-1739
Vol. IV, pages 134, 135.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 32, page 118.
Virginia Council Journals 1726-1753 May the 2nd 1727.
The Accompt of Contingent Charges from the 25th of October last together with the expenses of keeping in repair the Governor's House were this day examined and allowed in Council.
Ordered that Henry Cary and John Tyler, Gents. be appointed to view the Governor's House and Report what Reparations are Necessary therein and the charges thereof, and that the sume be forthwith sett about; And it is further Ordered that the great Dining room and Parlour thereto adjoining be new painted, the one of pearl colour the other of cream colour, and that the window frames outer doors and eaves be also new painted, that the pasture fence be put in repair and that Labourers be hired to assist the Gardiner in putting the Garden in good order.
Tyler's Magazine
vol. 8, page 210.
108a.Tyler-Strother- Allen Families
6. John Tyler
He was a builder in Williamsburg, and erected in 1714 the famous Powder Magazine and two wings of the new church in Bruton Parish. He also finished the palace building which had been begun by Henry Cary. May 2, 1727, "Henry Cary and John Tyler, Gent." were appointed by the House of Burgesses to view the Governor's house and report what reparations are necessary therein." (Journal of House of Burgesses, 1712-1726, p. 101; 1727-1740, p. 19; Journal of Executive Council.)
ROBERT CARTER LETTERBOOK 1727
Mss. Virginia Historical Society.
[Not directed but, from subsequent letters, probably to William Robertson, clerk of the Council, from Robert Carter, President of the Council, and acting governor between the death of Lt. Gov. Drysdale in 1726 and the arrival of Lt. Gov. William Gooch in 1727.]
109.Rappa May 15th 1727
Sir
…
You have forestalled me two or three days in respect to ye Kings birthday I intended to wait but till Wednesday night before and then to have dispatched directions to you about it you very well know my Innate Principles have all along bin Strong and Entirely for his ---- [ms. torn] family and in ye Post I am now in my Duty requires [me] to Celebrate his Majestys birthday. My Dayly Indispson deny me ye Satisfaction of being present at ye Seat of Govt] my Self Yesterday I was so very ill could hardly stay to End of Divine Service… In order to this herewith I send a Letter to the Secretary* wch you are to Send away by Express Desireing him to p[er]sonate my room if he Should decline it I must rely Upon You and Mr Hickman to do your utmost and I will by you request the Town Gentlem. Mr Attorney Mayr Holloway and Majr Blair to be Assisting in ye Governmt & direct ye Affair. The Govrs house to be Sure is ye fittest place You may very well Conclude when I laid in that wine at Town I had this day in my thoughts in Case a Govr should not Arrive Wt ever Sorts of drink Coll Drysdale had I would have ye Same and in all respects keep pace with him My Salary is as large and I thank God I have as little reason to be Sparing of it. I speak more particularly in the Enclosed paper.…
Sir
Yor most humble Servt
[Robert Carter]THE NECESSARYS REQUISITE FOR YE BIRTH NIGHT IN ALL RESPECTS EQUALLYE LAST BIRTHNIGHT,
The Govrs house to be Illuminated Mr Claytons also and likewise ye Capitol if it was so before I believe ye Colledge and all ye houses in Town will be also Illuminated
Bonfires to be made as before.
All the Royal healths to be drunk. The Guns to be fired and ye Batterys to fire. The flaggs to be hoisted [as] was ordered by Coll Drysdale.
The Gentlemen and Ladys that will come to --- torn Invited Cold Treats to be provided a Ball to be had for ye [La]dys. The Gentlemen of ye Council and their familys p[ar]ticularly to be invited Mr Grimes' family I shall invite what ever I have Omitted to be Supplyd The charge and Co[st] to be kept of and paid of Mr Grimes I expect will let me have ye money.
My wine you may be free with I believe one of the Pipes will sufficiently answer ye Occasion. Other Liquors &ca you must provide as well as you can
I am
Sir
[Robert Carter]All Immaginable care must be taken to prevent disorder and disasters
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 137.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 32, page 121.
At a Council held at the Capitol the 6th day of May 1727.
To the same* for sundry expences in repairing the Governor's House £ 45. 5. 5½
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 151.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 32, page 245.
At a Council held October the 27 1727.
An Accot of contingent Charges from the 25th of April 1727 to the 25th of this present month; also an account of Work done to the Governor's House, and other disbursements upon the same for the like time, together with an accot of the Charges in the apprehending Vidal and execution of certain Pirates were this day laid before the Governor in Council by Nathanael Harrison Esqr Deputy Auditor, and being examined, divers of the articles of the said account were allowed, and others to be reexamined and regulated by the said Auditor.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 154.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 32, page 250.
110.At a Council held at the Capitol November the 2d 1727.
To the same* for money paid for Repairs upon the Governors House £ 85.10.5
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 173.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 33, page 16.
At a Council held April the 27th 1728.
…
The acct of sundry disbursements for repairing the Govrs House were examined and allowed.Ordered that the sum of eighty pounds Curt money be paid to Joseph Sutton Joiner, if he will accept the same in full of his account for the work done at he Governor's house but if he refuse the same, it is ordered that the Receiver General do appoint fit persons with such as the said Sutton shall name to view and value the said work, and so much as shall appear due to him on such valuation be paid him at the passing the next half years accounts of the Revenue.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 174.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 33, page 18.
111.At a Council held May the 2d 1728.
To William Prentis for sundry repairs and other services about the Governor's House 147.5.2
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 33, page 386.
Virginia Council Journals, 1726-1753.
October the 24th, 1728.The acct. of Contingint Charges and of sundry expences about the Governor's house were severally examined in Council and allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 192.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 33, pages 387, 388.
At a Council held November the 2d 1728.
To the same* for sundry repairs about the Governor's House 7.19.2½
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 200.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 34, page 201.
. . .112.
The Accot of contingent Charges for the last half year, & also the account of sundry reparations about the Governor's house, were severally examined & allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 203.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 34, page 205.
May the 3rd 1729.
The following Warrants on the Receiver General to be paid out of his Majesty's Revenue of 2 shillings per hogshead...
To William Prentis for sundry reparations about the Governor's house 55:11:8¼
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 210.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 35, page 271.
Nov. the 1st 1729.
The account of Contingent Charges for the last half year ending the 25th of October the Accot of Sundry expences about the Governours House & an accot of Sundry charges of the Imprisnmt Tryals & Condemnation of divers pirates were laid before the board examin'd & ordered to be pd out of his Majesties Revenue of two shillings per hogshead.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
Vol. IV, page 211 (1721-1739)
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 35, page 272.
113.Novr 5th 1729
To Wm Prentis for Sundry Charges about the Governours House £29:18:9¼
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 217.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 35, page 407.
At a Council held at the Capitol the 6th day of May 1730.
The following Warrants to be paid out of his Majesties Revenue of two s per hogshead for Duties & head money was this day Sign'd by the Governor & Council (viz)-
. . .
To Wm Prentis for Sundry repairs about the Governours House 17:19:5
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1727-1740 Pages 108, 109.
Also: William & Mary Quarterly 1st Series, Vol. 22, p. 58. Wednesday, July 8, 1730.
114.Mr. Speaker acquainted the House That the Governors House was very Inconvenient for want of a cover'd way from the Offices into the House, And that the Governour had desired him to propose to the House to contribute a small sum of money towards building the same.
Resolved, Nemine Contradicente, That the Treasurer be impower'd to lay out sum not exceeding One hundred pounds in building a cover'd way from the Offices belonging to the Governors house into the said House.
Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
1715-1753, Vol. 11, page 783.
Wednesday July the 8th 1730.
A message from the House of Burgesses by Mr Clayton and others who brought
A Resolve
That the Treasurer be impowered to lay out a Sum not exceeding one Hundred Pounds on Building a Covered Way from the Offices belonging to the Governors House into the said HouseTo which they Desire the Concurrence of the Council
And the said Resolve was Agreed to
Gooch Papers, Ms. Va. Hist. Soc.
Vol. 1, page 194.
July 25th 1730.
But if it be demanded what the Casual Expence may Amount to, when no extraordinary Accidents happen, it is Answered, that the Charge of Expresses & Messengers, of repairing the Governor's House, and other Incidents come to £ 300 p. Annu:
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 3, page 121.
115."Virginia under Governor Gooch"
Ye extraordinary expences are not any way to be computed because they rise or fall as the exigencies of the Govt require; but if it be demanded what the casual expenses be valued at, when no extraordinary accident happens, it is answered that the charge of Expresses and messengers, of repairing the Gov House and other incidents to about £300-
Gooch's letter to Board of Trade.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 228.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 36, page 346.
At a Council held at the Capitol the 28th day of Octr 1730.
…
Sundry accounts and Contingent Charges for the last half year and also an account of Charges & Reparations about of the Governours house were Severally laid before the Board examined & allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 232.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 36, page 352.
116.At a Council held at the Capitol the 4th day of Novr 1730.
The following Warrants on the Receiver Genl to be paid out of his Majesties Revenue were this Day sign'd by the Govr in Council (vizt)
To Wm Prentice for sundry Disbursments about the Governours House 54:7:3
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 240.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial VirginiaApril 29th 1731.
The accompt of Disbursements for Sundry Reparations About the Governours House and Also the account of Expresses and other Contingent Charges for the last half Year were Severally examin'd & allowed.
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 242.
May the 6th 1731.
The following Warrants on the Receiver Genl to be paid out of his Majesties Revenues were this day Sign'd by the Govr in Council (vizt)
To Wm. Prentis for sundry disbursments about the Governours House 40:7:5½
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 254.
117.Novr the 2d 1731.
…
The Accot of Contingent Charges & for Repairs about the Governours House were examin'd in Council & allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 255.
Novr the 4th 1731.
The following Warrants on the Receiver General to be paid out of his Majesty's Revenue of 2s per hhd port Duties & Head Money were this day Sign'd by the Govr in Council (viz)
To Wm Prentis for Sundry Expresses & other Contingent Charges 115: 7:2½ To the Same for Sundry Disbursements abt the Govrs house 53:11:7½
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 267.
April 29th 1732.
Sundry Accots for Reparations about the Governours House & also the accot of Contingent Charges for Expresses & other publick Services during the last half year were Severally examin'd in Council & allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 280.
118.June 29th 1732.
The following Warrants upon his Majesy's Receiver Genl to be pd out of the Revenue of 2s per hhd port Duties & Head money were this Day Sign'd by the Govr in Council (Vizt)
To Wm. Prentis for Sundry Repairs about the Govrs House 26: 4:
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 288.
Oct. 26, 1732.
The Accot of Contingent Charges for the last half year was this day laid before the Board & being examined was allow'd Also an Accot of Disbursements for Repairs about the Govrs House was this day examd & allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 292.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739 Vol. IV, page 299.Nov. 2, 1732.
The following Warrants on the Recr Genl to be paid out of his Majesties Revenue of 2s per hhd &c were this day Sign'd by the Governour in Council (vizt)
To Wm Prentis for Sundry Repairs about the Govrs House 125: 1:
119.At a Council held at the Capitol the 26th of April 1733.
The accot of Contingent Charges for the last half year & also the Accot of Work & Repairs about the Governours house were severally examin'd & allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 300.
May 4th 1733.
The following Warrants on the Recr Genl to be paid out of his Majesty's Revenue of 2s per hhd port duty's & head Money were this day Signed by the Governour in Council (viz)
To Wm Prentis for Sundry repairs about the Govrs house 41:4:
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 309.
October 29th, 1733.
The Accounts of Contingent Charges for the last half Year and also Account for Repairs about the Governor's House were this day Examined & allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 314.
120.Novr 2d 1733.
The following Warrants on the Receiver General to be paid out of His Majestys Revenues was this day signed by the Governour in Council
To William Prentis for sundry Repairs abt the Governrs House 43:1:9½
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 321.
April 30th 1734.
The Account of Contingent Charges for the last half Year, and also the Account for Reparations about the Governors House to the 25th Inst were this day regulated, and allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 322.
May 4th 1734.
The following Warrants on the Receiver General to be paid out of His Majesty's Revenues were this Day signed by the Governor in Council (viz)
To Wm. Prentis for Repairs abt the Governors House 79:13:8
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 337.
121.November the 1st 1734.
The following Warrants on the Receiver General to be paid out of His Majesties Revenue of 2s per hhd Port Duties & Head Money were sign'd by the Governor in Council Vizt.
To Repairs about the Governors House 64:15:4
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, pages 351, 352.
May the 5th, 1735
The following Warrants on the Receiver General to be paid out of His Majesties Revenues were this day Sign'd by the Governor in Council Vizt.
To Repairs about the Governors House 27:13:8½
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 361.
At a Council held at the Capitol Novr 1st 1735.
The Account of the Contingent Charges & of the Disbursments about the Governors House for the last half Year were severally Examined & allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 363.
122.November the 4th 1735.
The following Warrants on the Receiver General to be paid out of His Majesties Revenue of two Shillings per hhd Port Duties & head Money were sign'd by the Governor in Council Viz
To Wm Prentis for sundry Contingent Charges 229:10:6 To Wm Prentis for Sundry Repairs abot the Governors House 107:12:11¼
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, pages 368, 370.
At a Council held at the Capitol May the 5th 1736.
The Accots of Contingent Charges & other Disbursments about he Governors House was severally Examined & allowed.
To Repairs to the Governors House 58: :
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 383.
At a council held October the 29th 1736.
Sundry Accounts for publick Services & other contingent Charges & also for repairs about the Governors house were examined & allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 385.
123.November the 4th 1736.
The following Warrants on the Receiver General to be paid out of his Majesties Revenue of 2s per hhd Port dutys & head money were signed by the Governor in Council. Vizt.
To Sundry Repairs about the Governors House 61: 5:10
Virginia Gazette, Wm. Parks, Ed.,
Also: Virginia Historical Register
Vol. 6, page 27.
Williamsburg, Nov. 5, 1736
Last Saturday being His Majesty's Birth-Day, the same was observ'd here with firing of guns, Illuminations and other Demonstrations of Loyalty: And at Night there was a handsome Appearance of Gentlemen and Ladies at His Honour the Governor's where was a Ball, and an elegant Entertainment for them.
William and Mary Quarterly, 1st Series
Vol. 15, page 223.
Observation in Several Voyages and Travels in America in the Year 1736. London Magazine, July 1746.
Williamsburg is a most wretched contriv'd affair... There is nothing considerable in it, but the College, the Governor's House, and one or two more, which are no bad Piles...
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 394.
124.At a Council held May the 3rd 1737.
The Accounts of Contingent Charges & Disbursments for Repairing the Governors house were Severally Examined and Allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 396.
At a Council held the 5th day of May 1737.
The following Warrants on the Receiver General to be Paid out of his Majs Revenue of 2s per hhd were Signed by the Governor in Council as follows, (Vizt)
To Sundry Repairs about the Govrs House 119: 1:11
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 406.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History Vol. 14, page 12.
October the 26th 1737.
The Account of Contingent Charges for the last half Year and also an Account of Expences about the Governors House was Severaly Examined and Allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 408.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 14, page 14.
125.At a Council held at the Capitol Novr 3d 1737.
The following Warrants on his Majs Receiver General to be paid out of his Majesties Revenue of 2s per hhd Port duties and head money were this day Signed by the Governor in Council Vizt.
To William Prentis for the Governors House 77: 9:-
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 413.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 14, page 21.
At a Council held at the Capitol Decr. 15th 1737.
Ordered
…
That there be paid to Mr. Philip Fench the Sum of Ten pounds for laying and planting the Avenue to the Governors House.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 416.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 14, page 25.
At a Council held at the Capitol Apl 27th 1738.
The Account of Contingent Charges about the Governors House were Examined and Allowed.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 417.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 14, page 27.
126.At a Council held at the Capitol May 5th 1738.
The following Warrants to be paid by the Receiver General out of his Majs Revenue were this day Signed by the Governor in Council as follows Vizt
To Repairs about the Governors House 78:14:10
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 426.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History Vol. 14, page 119.
At a Council held at the Capitol the 26th day of October MDCCXXXVIII.
The Account of Disbursments for the Governors House and the acct of Contingent Charges for the last half Year were Severally Examined and Allowed.
Virginia Gazette, Wm. Parks, Ed.
Also: Virginia Historical Register
Vol. 6, page 150.
Williamsburg, Nov. 3, 1738.
Last Monday being the Anniversary of His Majesty's Birth Day, was observ'd in this City with all the distinguishing Marks of Loyalty we are capable of shewing. In the Morning the Publick Flag was hoisted on the Capitol; at Noon the Cannon at the Governor's House were trebly discharg'd; and at Night most of the Gentlemen's and Other Houses of Note, were illuminated. His Honour the Governor was pleas'd to give a handsome Entertainment for the Gentlemen and Ladies together with a Ball;…
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 427.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 14, page 122.
127.At a Council held at the Capitol the 7th day of November 1738.
The Several following Warrants on the Receiver General for payment of the Established Salarys and contingent Charges were Signed by the Governor and Council Vizt.
To William Prentis for Repairs about the Governors House 77:11.10
Virginia Gazette, Wm. Parks, Ed.
January 4, 1739.
Stray'd away from the Governor's Pasture about a Fortnight ago, a light bay Horse...
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 437.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 14, page 245.
May 1st 1739.
The Acount of Contingent Charges and for Repairs of the Governors House being laid before the Board was Examined and allowed.
Virginia Gazette, Wm. Parks, Ed.
128.May 4, 1739.
Stray'd away from the Governor's Pasture, on Wednesday the 25th April, a Bay Gelding… and a Black Gelding… Whoever will bring the said Horses to me shall be well rewarded, besides what the Law allows.
William Gooch, Jun.
Executive Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia
October 25, 1721-October 28, 1739
Vol. IV, page 438.
Also: Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 14, page 338.
At a Council held at the Capitol the 5th Day of May 1739.
The following Warrants on the Receiver General to be paid out of his Majestys Revenue of two Shillings per Hhd Port Duties and Head Money were this Day Signed by the Governor
To Repairs done to the Governors House 50: 7: 4
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 14, page 347.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia-1737-1763.
Nov'r. 1, 1739.
Also an Acc't of work done at the Govern'rs House in the same time.
Virginia Gazette, Wm. Parks, Ed.
November 2, 1739.
Tuesday Last, being the Anniversary of His Majesty's Birthday, it was observ'd here, with great Decency and Respect. In the morning, the Flag was disply'd at the Capitol, At Noon the Great Guns at the Governor's were trice discharg'd, And in the Evening the Governor's House, the College, several Gentlemen's and other Houses, were beautifully illuminated… His Honour the Governor entertained a great Number of Gentlemen and Ladies at his House, with a Ball and an elegant Supper...
Anniversary on Oct. 30 - old style [When Calendar was changed in 1752 - 11 days were added and Nov. 10th cel. as b.d. M.G.]
129.
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 14, page 347.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia - 1737-1763.
Nov'r. 3'd, 1739.
For repairs done to the Govern'rs House £ 78:2:6
Virginia Magazine of History Vol. 14, page 351.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia -1737-1763.
April 30th, 1740.
Also an Account of work done at the Gov'rs House from the 25th of October, 1739, to the 25th of April, 1740 and the same was considered and allowed.
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 15, page 5.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia - 1737-1763.
130.June 17th, 1740.
To Will'm Prentise for so much p'd for repairs of the Governor's House £ 103:18:9
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 14, page 9.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia, 1737-1763.
Oct'r. 28th, 1740.
Acc't conting't charges and repairs of the Gov'rnors House from 25th April 1740 to the 25th of Oct'r. 1740.
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 15, page 10.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia, 1737-1763.
Nov. 3, 1740.
To Repairs done to the Govern'rs House £ 31.13.1
Oldmixon, John
British Empire in America
London: 1740, I: 407.
131.1741 .
(The public buildings.) "Are all built of brick and covered with shingle roofs, except the Debtor's prison which is flat roof'd."
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 14, page 116.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia - 1737-1763.
April 29th, 1741.
The Acco't of Contingent Charges, as also the Acco't of work done at the Gov'rs house, were now settled and allowed.
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 15, page 122.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia - 1737-1763.
May 5th, 1741.
For repairs done to the Gov'rs House £17.12.11
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 15, page 245.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia - 1737-1763.
Oct'r 27, 1741.
The Acc't of Contingent Charges and for ye repairs of ye Governour's House being laid before ye Board, was allow'd-
November 3, 1741.
For Repairs done to ye Governor's house £79.5.5.
Notes
*This was a bath-house. - Back to Text
[*William Prentis] - Back to Text
*[ Secretary of Colony-Carter's son John Carter] - Back to Text
[*William Prentis] - Back to Text
131a.
Orange County Will Book No. 1, 1735-1743
Photostat, Virginia State Library
At a Court held for Orange County on Thursday the 26th day of November 1741
This Appraisment of the Estate of Jno Campbell deced being returned into Court by the Admr and it is Admitted to Record
Test
Jonathn Gibson ClCr
INVENTORY of Effects belonging to the Estate of the late Mjr Genl Spotswood Deced
182
| Brought Over | £174.. 4.. - |
| ONE Green Camblet Bed and one Iron Bedstead one Feather Bed, one Bolster, 2 pillows one white Quilt and two Blankets | 9.. -.. - |
| One Black Japan'd Card Table | -..15.. - |
183
131c
184
131d
185
| Brought Up | 409.. 7.. 0 |
| A Coach and Harness for six Horses | 25.. -.. - |
| A Chariot | 65.. -.. - |
| A Chaise | 2.. -.. - |
131e
| Draggon | £ 3.. -.. - | |
| Jolly | 8.. -.. - | |
| Gilbert | 8.. -.. - | |
| Puppy | 8.. -.. - | |
| Phoenix | 6.. -.. - | |
| Prince | 5.. -.. - | |
| 38 |
| 16 Cows | a 25/ | £ 20.. -.. - |
| 13 Small Catle | a 15/ | 9..15.. - |
| 9 Cows | a 25/ | 11.. 5.. - | |
| 6 Small Catle | a 15/ | 4..10.. - | |
| 136 lb old Iron 3 Gun Barrells and some old milk pans | 1.. 5..10 | ||
| 46..15..10 | |||
| Carry'd Over | £ 946 2 10 | ||
| Brought Over | £ 946.. 2..10 |
186
| 31 Cows Heiffers and Steers | a 25/ | £ 38..15..- | |
| 2 old Bulls | a 25/ | 2..10.. - | |
| 10 Catle of 2 yrs old | a 15/ | 7..10.. - | |
| 12 Yearlings | a 10/ | 6.. -.. - | |
| 54..15.. - |
| 10 Cows | a 25/ | £ 12.. -.. - | |
| 6 Steers | a 35/ | 10..10.. - | |
| 3 Do & 2 heiffers | a 20/ | 5.. -.. - | |
| 5 of 2 years old | a 15/ | 3..15.. - | |
| 4 yearlings | a 10/ | 2.. -.. - | |
| 33..15.. - |
| 14 Cows 2, 4 Yr old Steers | a 25/ | £ 20.. -.. - | |
| 2 Steers 3 yr old & one Bull | a 20/ | 3.. -.. - | |
| 4 Cows at Newpost | a 25/ | 5.. -.. - | |
| 28.. -.. - |
| 6 Cows | a 25/ | £ 7..10.. - | |
| 1 Bull | a 25/ | 1.. 5.. - | |
| 2 large and three Small Stears | 6.. -.. - | ||
| 2 of 2 years old | a 15/ | 1..10.. - | |
| 6 yearlings | a 10/ | 3.. -.. - | |
| 19.. 5.. - |
| 46 Sheep | a 5/ | 15.. -.. - |
| 14 Latter Lambs | ||
| £1139.17..10 |
PURSUANT to an Order of Orange County Court bearing date ye 27th September 1740 We the Subscribers being first Sworn before Robt Slaughter Cent have Appraised the above Estate this 26th January 1741/2 ----
Exrs
John Finleson
Butler Spotswood
Samuel Ball
Elliott Benger
W Russell
At a Court held for Orange County on Thursday ye 28th day of January 1741
This Inventory and Appraisment of the Estate of Alexr Spotswood Esqr deced being presented into Court by Elliot Benger Gent one of ye Exrs of ye last Will & Testament of ye deced, And on his Motion is Admitted to Record
Test
Jonathn Gibson ClCur
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 15, page 377.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia - 1737-1763.
May ye 4, 1742.
The Acc't of Contingent Charges and for repairs of ye Governour's House being laid before the Board was allow'd
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 15, page 378.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia - 1737-1763.
May (--) 1742.
For repairs done to ye Gov'rs House £47.6.10
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 16, page 17.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia - 1737-1763.
October 29, 1742.
The Account of Contingent Charges and for Repairs of the Governor's house being laid before the Board, was allowed.
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 16, page 18.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia - 1737-1763.
133.Nov. 4th, 1742.
For Repairs done to the Gov'rs House £89.7.8
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 16, page 26.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia - 1737-1763.
April 30th, 1743.
The Accounts of Contingent Charges and for Repairs of the Gov'rs house being laid before the Board, were allowed.
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 16, page 28.
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia - 1737-1763.
May 6th, 1743.
For repairs done to the Gov'rs house £48.14.11
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1326, Transcripts, Library of Congress.
134.1743.
Account of His Majesty's Revenue of 2s per hogshead &c. arising within this Colony of Virginia...
By a Warrant for Repairs done to the Governour's House £72: 1:5
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1326, Transcripts, Library of Congress
1744.
Account of His Majesty's Revenue of 2s per hogshead &c. arising within this Colony of Virginia...
By a Warrant for Repairs done to the Governour's House £81:15:0 120: 0:9
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1326, Transcripts, Library of Congress.
1745.
Account of His Majesty's Revenue of 2s per hogshead &c. arising within this Colony of Virginia...
By a Warrant for Repair done to the Governour's House £63: 6:00 103:12: 8
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1742-1743
Page 173.
135.Wednesday, March 5, 1745.
A Petition of James Bird, was presented to the House, and read; praying that he may be allowed the whole Salary of Fifty Pounds Sterling, per Annum, as Armourer; and that this House will make him some Allowance for cleaning the great Guns before the Governor's House.
Virginia Gazette, Wm Parks, Ed.
May 23, 1745.
Stol'n or stray'd away, about the Middle of April last, from the Pasture of the Hon. William Gooch, Esq; in Williamsburg, a large black Gelding,... Whoever brings the said Horse to the Subscriber's Dwelling-house, in Williamsburg, shall have a Pistole Reward, and no Questions ask'd, by me.
John Carter.
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1326, Transcripts, Library of Congress.
1746.
Account of His Majesty's Revenue of 2s per hogshead &c. arising within this Colony of Virginia...
By a Warrant for Repairs done to the Governour's House £79:13: 8 174: 2: 3
Journals of the House of Burgesses of Virginia, 1742-1748
Page 229.
136.Tuesday, July 15, 1746.
Mr. Conway reported, That the Committee appointed, had, according to Order, attended the Governor in his Bed-Chamber , and presented the Address of this House to him; to which he was pleased to make the following Answer.
Virginia Gazette, Wm. Parks, Ed.
July 31, 1746.
Stolen or Stray'd away on Saturday Night the 26th of July, from the Governor's Pasture; near Williamsburg, a dark brown bay mare…
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1327, Transcripts, Library of Congress.
1747.
Account of His Majesty's Revenue of 2 s per hogshead &c. arising within this Colony of Virginia...
By a Warrant for Repairs done to the Governour's house 55:13:11
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1327, Transcripts, Library of Congress.
1748.
Account of His Majesty's Revenue of 2s per hogshead &c. arising within this Colony of Virginia...
By a Warrant for Repairs done to the Governour's house 56:16: 2
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1327, photostat.
25th of April 1748 to the 25th of October 1748.137.
By a Warrant for Repairs done to the Governour's house 21: 2:0
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1327, Transcripts, Library of Congress.
1749.
Account of His Majesty's Revenue of 2s per hogshead &c. arising within this Colony of Virginia...
By a Warrant for Repairs done to the Governour's House 26:15:11 18: 1: 5
From Photostat "Virginia Journals of Council, 1740-1752" reproduced from the Public Record Office of England. Colonial Office. Clas 5. 1423 (1740 March - 1744) (1747-1752 April) 1429. (1752 April - Dec.) - p. 402.
At a Council held September the fourth 1749.
The Council having taken under their consideration the ruinous Condition of the Governor's House thought proper that it should be surveyed by some skilful Persons and on estimate made by them of the Charge of putting it in good Repair, and were pleased to appoint Mr. James Wray and Mr. Richard Taliaferro for that Purpose, and ordered the Clerk to give Notice to them thereof, and desire that they would forthwith carefully view & inspect the said House and make a Report as soon as possibly they could of the Expense which they should judge the Reparation might amount to.
[handwritten note in margin - illegible]
From Photostat "Virginia Journals of Council. 1740-1752" reproduced fromthe Public Record Office of England. Colonial Office. Class 5. 1423 (1740 March - 1744) (1747-1752 April) 1429. (1752 April - Dec.) - p. 407.
138.At a Council held November the Second 1749.
The Council this Day having taken a View of the Governor's House, and considered the bad State in which they found it, were of Opinion, that it should be generally and thoroughly repaired.
Gooch Papers, Transcripts, Va. Hist. Soc.
Vol. 3, page 1015.
Nov. 7, 1749.
Letter of Thomas Lee, President of the Council (Acting Gov. of Va.) Wmsburg Nov. 7, 1749 to Lords Commissioners of Trade & Plantations, has the following:
"I have not yet reced the particulars of the damage done by the late storm to Fort George, soe as soon as I have it, I will transmit it to your Lordships, The Governor's House, gardens, etc., has been Viewed and Examined by our most Skillful Architect and he reports that the necessary repairs will cost £ 1259-6, Curt Money, which being matter of revenue, the expense of those repairs, I have acquainted the Lords of His Majesty's treasury with it, in which if I am wrong I beg your Lordships directions as to my future applications in such cases."
William and Mary Quarterly, 1st series
Vol. 16, pages 19, 20.
139.Williamsburg- The Old Colonial Capitol.
After his (Gooch's) departure (1749), there was an interval of two years, during which John Robinson, Thomas Lee and Lewis Burwell, as presidents of the Council, acted as deputy-governors, and in this time steps were taken toward rebuilding and enlarging the palace.
…
As the palace was not ready for occupancy when Dinwiddie arrived, he resided during part of his term in a house on the Palace Green, leased from Dr. Kenneth McKenzie, and now known as the Saunders House.
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1327, Transcripts, Library of Congress.
1750.
Account of His Majesty's Revenue of 2s per hogshead &c. arising within this Colony of Virginia...
By a Warrant for Repairs done to the Governour's house 19:13: 7 18: 9: 4 1750.
[From the years 1743 to 1750 the repairs to the Governor's House paid out to the revenue from the 2 Shillings per hogshead tax totalled £ 959:19: 9.]
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1327, Transcripts, Library of Congress
140.1750.
Account of His Majesty's Revenue of 2s per hogshead &c. arising within this Colony of Virginia...
Warrant to one year's house rent to President £150: 0: 0
Gooch Papers, Transcripts, VA. Hist. Soc.
Vol. 3, page 1049.
Letter of Lords Comrs. of Trade to Thomas Lee.
Jan. 23d., 1749/50.
…Whatever concerns the Revenue is immediately under the Direction of His Majesty's Treasury, and you did well in making your application to the Board relating to the Repairs for the Governor's House.
Capt. Roger Jones, of London and Virginia Page 223.
Letter of Lady Gooch to Mrs. Elizabeth Jones
Feb. 4th. 1749/50.
ye great parlor is almost as broad as our dressing room at Wmsbg and within 2 foot as long, ye other about ye size of my closet, we have four chambers on ye first floor and two light closets and as many garrots, and I believe they'd all stand in ye hall…
(A comparison of her London house with the Governor's Palace in Williamsburg).
Dawson, Wm.
L.S. to Sir Wm. Gooch.
141.Aug. 20, 1750.
". . . Touching T-L's [over this is written "the"] P's Place of residence some were once a little ruffled, but all seems smooth at present, Then it was I heard, with pleasure, our worthy Governor highly commended for being always on the spot."
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1327
1751.
Account of His Majesty's Revenue of 2s. per hogshead &c. arising within this Colony of Virginia...
By a Warrant for Repairs done to the Governour's House 14:15:11 55: 5: 9
William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series
Vol. 8, page 17.
Diary of John Blair, 1751.
(Note on Dr. Kenneth McKenzie)
The decd referred to in the text is on record at Yorktown, and conveys for the Governor's use lots 333, 334, 335, 336 on the Palace Green, being the lots occupied by what is known as the Saunders House. This effectually disposes of Dr. E. D. Neill's rather belittling reference to the Palace, quoting Dinwiddie, who was only speaking of Dr. McKenzie's house.
William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series
vol. 7, page 135, 139.
142.Diary of John Blair
February 21, 1751.Cloudy & rainy Shewd Mr. Muir ye Govers. house.
May 11, 1751.
Warm walking to Grays, viewed ye place for Govers. house.
William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series
Vol. 8, page 6.
Diary of John Blair
May 27, 1751.Mr. Richards now with me abt. the Govrs. house, and said if he did it he must have four years to finish it. Ie what to be done.
May 28, 1751.
Col. Fairfax gives hopes of Mr. Dinwiddie and urges some repairs to the Govrs. house.
Ibid., Vol. 7, page 141.
June 12, 1751.
Do consulted abt. ye Govrs. House and I am desired to write to Presidt.
Ibid, Vol. 8, page 10.
July 31, 1751.
Attended the Presidt in Council who was agt purchasg a house for the Govr of M'Kenzie and agt Mr. Leheups accot of £22.10.0, etc…
Ibid, Vol. 7, page 144.
143.August 7, 1751.
Do The Presidt here. I waited on him at Govrs. house.
William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series
Vol. 7, page 145.
Diary of John Blair
August 30, 1751.Do Finished ye Contract wth Taliaferro for ye Govrs. house.
(NOTE:) The palace was not occupied for some years after this which explains the statement (otherwise contradictory of what we know of the size of the palace) of Governor Dinwiddie, in one of his letters, that in the house then occupied by him there "were three rooms below besides the garret rooms". At its first construction, the palace was made 54 feet by 48, and it was afterwards (probably now) enlarged to 74 feet by 68. (See Quarterly II, 198; Howe's Historical Collections of Virginia, 328.)
Ibid., Vol. 8, page 13.
October 15, 1751.
Govr Ogle, Mr. Secy Jennings and Mr. Tasker dined here wth the Council, and after dinner waitd on the President at the Govrs house, where in presence of the Council his Excely took the oaths before the Presidt, and gave bond with 2 surety.
From Photostat copy "Journals of Council, 1740-1752"
Page 517.
144.At a Council held October 29th, 1751.
The Council having taken into Consideration the Necessity of providing a House for the Reception of the Governor it is Ordered That John Blair and Philip Ludwell Esqrs be impower'd to treat with any Person upon the Hiring of a House for the Purpose.
William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series
Vol. 8, page 14.
Diary of John Blair
November 1, 1751.The council desired me to contract for rent of a house for the Govenr on the terms spoken to in council, wch amounted to £ 70 per anne wth leave to hire Col. Ludwell's house for half a year at a venture, £ 40.
From Photostat copy "Journals of Council, 1740-1752"
Page 517.
November 21st, 1751.
At a Council held November 21st 1751.
John Blair and Philip Ludwell Esqrs. were directed and impower'd to treat and agree with Doctor McKenzie of Williamsburgh upon the Purchase of his House for the use and Accommodation of the Governor.
(This was probably the house now known as the Saunders House. E.S. Stubbs.)
William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series
Vol. 8, page 15.
145.Diary of John Blair
November 21, 1751.Mr. Comissy., Col. Ludwell and myself went out to meet the Governor… attended him to his house… At the Govrs. house he produced his commission with a handsome speech...
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1327, Transcripts, Library of Congress.
1752.
Account of His Majesty's Revenue of 2s. per hogshead &c. arising within this Colony of Virginia...
Warrant for Repairs on the Governour's House 818:8:10
Virginia Gazette, Wm. Hunter, Ed.
Also: William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series
Vol. 13, page 14.
November 17, 1752.
Friday last, being the Anniversary of his Majesty's Birth Day, in the Evening, the whole City was illuminated. There was a Ball, and a very elegant Entertainment, at the Palace, where were present the Emperor and Empress of the Cherokee Nation, with their Son the Young Prince, and a brilliant appearance of Ladies and Gentlemen; several beautiful fireworks were exibited in Palace Street, by Mr. Hallam, Manager of the Theatre in this City
Virginia Gazette, Wm. Hunter, Ed.
November 17, 1752.
The Emperor of the Cherokee Nation with his Empress and their Son the Young Prince attended by several of his Warriors and great Menand their Ladies, were received at the Palace by his Honour the Governor, attended by such of the Council as were in Town and several other Gentlemen, on Thursday the 9th Instant, with all the marks of Civility and Friendship, and were that Evening entertained, at the Theatre, with the Play, (the Tragedy of Othello) and a Pantomime Performance, which gave them great Surprize, as did the fighting with Naked Swords on the Stage, which occasioned the Empress to order some about her to go and prevent their killing one another. The Business of their coming is not yet made publick; but it is said to relate to the opening and establishing a Trade with this Colony, which they 146. are very desirous of. They were dismissed with a handsome Present of fine Cloathes, Arms and Amunition; and expressed great Satisfaciton in the Governor's kind Reception, and from several others; and left this Place this Morning.
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1327, Transcripts, Library of Congress.
1755.
Account of His Majesty's Revenue of 2s. per hogshead &c. Arising within this Colony of Virginia…
By a Warrant for Repairs on the Governour's House 195:4:3 1114:6:7
illegible
Ibid, C05, #1328.
1754.
By a Warrant for Repairs on the Governour's House 112:10: 6 853: 4:10
Ibid, C05, #1328.
1755.
By a Warrant for Repairs on the Governour's House 88:15: 2 71: 2: 3
Dinwiddie Papers
Vol. 11, page 187.
146-aSept'r 5th, 1755.
At a Meet'g at the G'rs House, with the chiefs of the Cherokee Nat'n…
EXECUTIVE JOURNALS OF THE COUNCIL 1754-1774
[From Mss. Virginia Historical Society typed ms. in preparation for publication.]
147.At a Council held November 11th, 1756
…
[Warrants signed for period Apr. 25 - Oct. 25, 1756] …
For repairs to the Governour's House [£] 53: 8: 2 At a Council held May 7th 1757
…
For Repairs to the Governor's House [Oct 25, 1756-Apr.25, 1757]- 10: -: - At a Council held November 5th 1757
…
For Repiars to the Governor's House [Apr. 25-Oct. 25, 1757]- 10: -: - At a Council held May 3d 1758
…
For Repairs to the Governor's House [Oct.25, 1757-Apr.25, 1758]- 10: 0: 0 At a Council held Novemr 6th 1758
…
For Repairs to the Governor's House [Apr.25-Oct. 25, 1758] --- 162:15:2 At a Council held November 6th 1759
…
For Repairs to the Governor's House [Apr. 25-Oct.25, 1759] ---- 69:10: - At a Council held May 7th 1760
…
For Repairs to the Governor's House [Oct.25,1759-Apr/25,1760]--- 45:13: 5
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1328, #1329, Transcripts, Library of Congress.
1756.
Account of His Majesty's Revenue of 2 s per hogshead &c. Arising within this Colony of Virginia
By a Warrant for Repairs done on the Governour's House 33: 5: 4 53: 8: 2
Ibid, #1329.
1757.
By a Warrant for Repairs done to the Governour's House 10: 0: 0
Ibid, #1329.
1758.
By a Warrant for Repairs done to the Governour's House 10: 0: 0 162:15:2
Dinwiddie, R.
L.S. to Thos. Dawson.
147aLondon Mch. 1753.
… On my arrival here I found Francis Foukier Esq. appointed to succeed me in the Government. He is a gentleman of good sense and Interest here, and I hope he will be agreeable to the people and make a good Governor which will give me pleasure as I will always wish prosperity and happiness to Virginia.
Corbin, Col. Richard, Letter Book of, 1758-1768
Ms. Va. Hist. Soc., page 11.
26th Apl 1758
Ad. to Col. HunterRobert Dinwiddie Esq.
…you will be pleased for the present to be informed that when I produced your Honor's order on Col.Peter Randolph for £ 171:8:6 he made the following objections, viz you deduct 3l for the use of the Bedsteads &ca In the sense he understands the agreement, he insists that deduction ought to be more considerable 2d you charge 7:10 for matrasses and counterpanes he says no charge was to be made for this & - attorney understood Mrs. Dinwiddie 3d you charge 50l for the Chariot. He says Turnbull agreed for it and He must pay for it.
-----------------------------------
Mr. Grymes will not be concerned with the Harpse and so I have desired Col. Hunter to make sale for it with the other goods.
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1329, Transcripts, Library of Congress.
1759.
Account of His Majesty's Revenue of 2s per hogshead &c. Arising within this Colony of Virginia...
By a Warrant for Repairs to the Governour's House 164: 9: 5
[From the years 1751 to 1759 the repairs to the Governour's House paid out of the revenue from the 2 shillings per hogshead tax totaled £2624: 5:7]
Burnaby, Rev. Andrew Travels through the Middle Settlements in North America in the years 1759 to 1760, London: 2nd. edition, 1775.
Also: Virginia Historical Register, Vol. 5, page 30.
147-aaJuly 5, (1759)
…There are few public edifices that deserve to be taken notice of; those which I have mentioned are the principal ones; and they are far from being magnificent. The Governor's palace indeed, is tolerably good, one of the best upon the continent…
EXECUTIVE JOURNALS OF THE COUNCIL 1754-1774
[Mss. Virginia State Library. From typed ms. in prep. for publication.]
148.At a Council held at the Governor's House, May 25th 1758
…
The President likewise communicated a Letter from Sir John St. Clair, dated Winchester May 19th signifying that both the Virginia Regiments wanted Blankets, and that the second was without Arms, which he desired they might be supplied out of the Governor's House, as the Arms there can never be put to better use.Upon which it was the advice in Council that the Consideration of the said Letters be deferr'd till a full Council could be called;…
At a Council held June 2d 1758
. . .
The President laid before the Board Sir John St Clair's Letter of the 19th of May... and also a Letter from him of the 23d……
Which Letters being read, the President acquainted the Board that considering the pressing Exigencies of the Service, he had sent away all the Arms in the Magazine, and all those in the Governor's House, being near 700, to York, to be transported from thence to Falmouth, with 25 Barrels of Powder, a Quantity of Shot and Flints, and 8 Drums, being all we had, with a Chest of Medicines and Instruments, and what Blankets could be got here, and had given Orders to Gentlemen in Fredericksburg and Falmouth to provide Waggons to… carry the Cargo immediately to Winchester.
Campbell, Charles
History of Virginia, page 502.
[1759]
Burnaby, who visited Virginia about this time, in describing Williamsburg, mentions the Governor's palace as the only tolerable good public building. The streets being unpaved are dusty, the soil being sandy. The miniature capital had the rare advantage of being free from mosquitoes; and it was, all things considered, a pleasant place of residence. During the session of the assembly and of the general court, it was crowded with the gentry of the country. On these occasions there were balls and other amusements; but as soon as the public business was dispatched the visitors returned to their homes, and Williamsburg appeared to be deserted.
William & Mary Quarterly, 1st series
Vol. 16, page 23.
Williamsburg-The Old Colonial Capitol. Burnaby's Travels, 1759.
…The capitol and college were "far from magnificent", the Governor's house was only "tolerable", though he admitted it to be the "best on the continent".Virginia Magazine of History Vol. 33, page 113.
148-aProprietors of the Northern Neck
[1759, July]A few days later, as he records, Mr. Burnaby had the opportunity of meeting Lord Fairfax at "The Palace" on the occasion of a reception by Governor Fauquier…
EXECUTIVE JOURNALS OF THE COUNCIL 1754-1774
[From mss. Virginia Historical Soc. typed ms. in prep. for pub.]
At a Council held November 6th, 1760
. . .
For repairs to the Governour's House [Apr.25-Oct.25, 1760]- [£]114: 0:11 At a Council held May 6th 1761
For Repairs to the Governor's House [Oct 25, 1760-Apr.25, 1761]- 32: 9: 6 At a Council held Novr 6th 1761
For Repairs to the Governor's House [Apr. 25-Oct. 25, 1761]- 77:11:11 At a Council held May 7th 1762
For Repairs to the Governor's House [Oct.25, 1761-Apr.25, 1762]- 49:14: 4 At a Council held Novemr 5th 1762
For Repairs to the Governor's House [Apr.25-Oct. 25, 1762] --- 92:17: 2 At a Council held May 5th 1763
For Repairs to the Governor's House [Oct.25,1762-Apr/25,1763]--- 43:10: 2
[Journals missing from 1764-1767. MG]
149.Virginia Gazette, Wm. Hunter, Ed.
November 30, 1759.
Just imported in the Good-Intent, Capt. Reddick, and to be sold Cheap, for ready Money, by the Subscriber, living at the Palace, in Williamsburg; where Gentlemen may depend on being well served, with the following Garden-Seeds, by.
Their humble Servant,
Christopher AyscoughSix-Week Peas, Charlton Hotspur Peas, Marrowfat Peas, Nonpareil Peas, Spanish Morrotto Peas, Sugar Dwarf Peas, Windsor Beans, Long-poded Beans, White Blossom Beans, Green Beans, Nonpareil Beans, large English Turnip, early Dutch Turnip, early Dutch Cabbage, Sugar-loaf Cabbage, Battersea Cabbaage, large Winter Cabbage, Red Cabbage, Yellow Savoy Cabbage, Green savoy Cabbage, early Colliflower, late Colliflower, Colliflower Brocoli, Purple Brocoli, curled Colewort, Scarlet Raddish, short-topped Raddish, whit Turnip Raddish, black Turnip Raddish, white gass Lettuce, black Gass Lettuce, brown Dutch Lettuce, Nonpareil Lettuce, Silesia Lettuce, brown Dutch Lettuce, Nonpareil Lettuce, Silesia Lettuce, white curled Endive, white Spanish Onion, English Onion, Leek, Chardoon, Italian Cellery, white Mustard, Garden Cresses, Winter Cresses, Charvel, Clary &c.
[handwritten notation in margin - illegible 1760-1763]
Virginia Magazine of History
Vol. 16, pages 140; 150;
Executive Journals, Council of Colonial Virginia 1737-1763.
150.Novem'r 6th, 1761.
For Repairs done to the Gov'rs. House £77.11.11 Nov'r 1st, 1764.
Acc't of Contingent charges from 25th April '64 to 25th of Octo'r 64, and for work done at Gov'rs house -pass'd.
Nov'r 6, 1764.
Repairs to G'rs house £274.3.5
Robert Rogers
"A Concise Account of North America"
London: 1765; page 118.
1765.
"The Governor's House, an elegant seat being enclosed with beautiful walks of trees and elegantly furnished inside and out... the other public buildings are very spacious and elegant."
[Gordon, Lord Adam]
Journal of an Officer in the West Indes, 1764-65
Transcript (Lib. of Cong.) from the Brit. Mus.
King's Mss., #213. ff. 54b-60.
Also: Mereness, Newton D., Travels in the American Colonies, pages 403, 404.
Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, Eds.1764-1765.
…
The people are well-bred, polite and extremely civil to Strangers... the Governor's House is handsome and commodious, and he himself very happy, and the people so in him…Mr. Fauquier was Lieut.-Governour in 1765, when I there…
N.B.- a very good house and garden in Williamsburg.
151.June 6, 1766.
Wednesday last being the Kings' Birthday, his Honour the Governour with some of the principal Gentlemen of this City, met at Mr. Pullett's tavern, and spent the evening in honour of his Majesty; and several houses were illuminated, as also the flag displayed on the Capitol. There was no ball at the Palace, nor any publick rejoicing here;…
Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, Eds.
October 29, 1767.
Last Sunday being the anniversary of the accession of our Most Gracious Sovereign to the throne, a sermon well adapted to the occasion was preached in our Church by the Rev. Mr. Horrocks,… and next day his Honour the Governour gave a ball and elegant entertainment at the palace, to a numerous and splendid appearance of Ladies and Gentlemen…
Ibid.
March 3, 1768.
Early this morning died at the Palace, after a tedious illness, which he bore with the greatest patience and fortitude, the Hon. Francis Fauquier, Esq; Lieutenant Governour and Commander in Chief of this Colony, over which he has presided near ten years, much to his honour, and the case and satisfaction of the inhabitants… He was a Fellow of the Royal Society, and died in his 65th year.
[handwritten note in margin - 1767-8 illegible p. 171-a]
York County, Virginia
Book 21 - Wills & Inventories
Pages 397-403.
Will entered -
March 20, 1768.Fauquier, Francis.
…Will and testament in the manner and form following…
And whereas I am possessed of sundry small parcels of land, slaves, and other effects in the Colony and Dominion of Virginia not included in the aforesaid Deed of Trust, I dispose of them in manner following. I will that all my lands, slaves and other effects whatsoever be disposed of by my executors hereafter to be named for this part of my estate, and sold for the payment of my just debts, and the few legacies I shall leave, and the 152. residue if any there shall be, disposed of as is hereafter directed. That is, that all my land which consists of two small parcels the one bought of Mr. Ferguson, the other of Mr. Moody and both since inclosed by me under one fence, shall be offered to the Honorable, the Council, as being very convenient for any future Governour of this Colony for the price of two hundred and fifty pounds sterling, which I… to be under the real value thereof; and the… household furniture in the Palace at Williamsburg be likewise offered to the Hon. Council for the like price of two hundred and fifty pounds… for the use of the succeeding Governour, my plate… ware, and household linnen excepted… stay one year and no longer. And in case he shall refuse them, then I will that they be sold at Public Auction, or by any other method my executors shall direct for the best price that can be got for them.
It is now expedient that I should dispose of my slaves, a part of my estate in its nature disagreeable to me, but which my situation made necessary for me; the disposal of which has constantly given me uneasiness whenever the thought has occurred to me. I hope I shall be found to have been a merciful Master to them and that no one of them will rise up in judgement against me in that Great Day when all my actions will be exposed to Public view., For with what face can I expect mercy from an offended God, if I have not myself shewn mercy to these dependant on me. But it is not sufficient that I have been this Master in my life, I must provide for them at my death, by using my utmost endeavors that they experience as little misery during their lives as their very unhappy and pitiable condition will allow. Therefore I will that they shall have liberty to choose their own Masters and that the women and their children shall not be parted; that they shall have six months allowed them to make such choice during which time they shall be maintained out of my estate; that my executors shall take for them of such masters as they shall choose twenty five per cent under the then market price. If at the end of six months any of them should not have made such choice, and if either of my executors choose to take any of them , I will that they should have them at the same price as if they… And in this case, I also will that they should take the same price of such persons or any other on them they can depend to answer my intention and earnest desire of entailing kindness upon them as far as it is in my power; Of all which my executors are to be whole & sole judges, not accountable to any one for having sold them at what may be supposed to be an under rate. In case of extremety and not otherwise, they must be sold for the best 153. price that can be got for them.
All the rest of my effects in this collony except my plate, pictures, china ware, and household linnens as before excepted and musical instruments, I hereby direct shall be sold for the best price that can be got for them. And I will that the produce of my land, slaves, furniture and other effects hereby directed to be sold be applied to the payment of my just debts and legacies, and be paid to my eldest son Francis Fauquier, for that purpose by my executors after their deducting what is necessary to pay my funeral expenses, debts and legacies due in this Colony. And I further will that after all such payment made, the overplus be divided in equal parts between my dear wife and two sons or such of them as shall be living at the time of my death; always intending to make an alteration in my will, if God should grant me time and understanding after the loss of either of them if I should survive such loss.
I give and bequeath to my dear wife Catherine Fauquier, all my plate, pictures, china ware and household linnen for her whole and sole benefit, always hoping that she will dispose of any surplus... to either of my sons if they should marry and settle to save them the expense of purchasing new.
I give and bequeath to… son Francis Faquier, all my books both here and in…
I give and bequeath… youngest son William Fauquier all… musick books both… with the first part of my will as they are part of my effects in England and included in the Deed of Trust, but as I have power to alter that disposition by my will, my desire is that these and whatever else my seem to clash therewith any be considered as such alterations and pass to my said sons in consequence of these bequests.
And whereas I am indebted to my eldest son Francis Fauquier, in the sum of Twelve hundred pounds sterling, my will is that this sum be considered as part of my debts and not included in the division of my estate. and whereas I have at sundry times advanced money to the use of my youngest son William Fauquier, to the amount of about one thousand pounds, sterling, my will is that the said sum of one thousand pounds, be paid to my eldest son Francis Fauquier to make them equal before the division of my estate takes place.
I hereby direct my executors to purchase one single stone brilliant diamond ring of the value of one hundred guineas at 154. least, which I bequeath to my much esteemed and respected patron George Montague Dunk Earl of Halifax as a small token of my gratitude to him for the many favours conferred on me unmerited on my part; and which I hope he will do me the honour to wear in remembrance of a man who never one moment forgot the Great obligation he had to his Lordship.
I also direct that my executors purchase four other single stone brilliant diamond rings of the value of 25 guineas each… I bequeath to them not as a reward… I have hereby given them for I well know they have… sterling in recompense of her great fidelity and attention to me in all my illnesses, and of the great economy with which she conducted the expenses of my kitchen, during my residence at Williamsburg, as his Majesties Lieutenant Governour, when it was in her power to have defrauded me of several hundred pounds.
And my further desire is that this my will be read by one of my executors before my wife and children, if in Virginia, other executors, servants, and slaves that everything may be explained to them if there should be any clause which they may not understand or may give them or any of them uneasiness.
And I hereby appoint the Hon. William Nelson, Robert Carter, two of his Majesties Council, the Hon. Peyton Randolph, Speaker of the House of Burgesses and George Wythe, Esquires, executors of this my will as far as it relates to my estate and effects in Virginia and no farther.
And I hereby declare I have no other Will by me having destroyed the former, which makes it unnecessary for me to revoke any such writing purporting to be my will, and this I declare to be my last will all written with my own hand and signed by me at Williamsburg this 26th day of March, 1767, and in the 64th year of my age.
Fran: Fauquier LS
Before us
Thos. Everard
James Cocke
154-a
EXECUTIVE JOURNALS OF THE COUNCIL 1754-1774
[Mss Virginia State Library. From typed ms. in prep. for publication ]
155.At a Council held April 20th, 1768
. . .
William Nelson Esqr acquainted the Board that the late Governor desired in his Will that two parcels of land which he bought of Mr Ferguson, and Mr Moody, adjoining the tract belonging to the Government, might be offered to the Council at the price of £250 Sterling and also his household furniture at the like price, for the use of succeeding Governors:The Council… disapproved of buying the furniture; but unanimously agreed to purchase the lands at the price mentioned;…
York County, Virginia
Book 22 - Wills, Inventories
Page 83-99.
[1768]
Fauquier Inventory
Goods received by the executors since the decease of the late Francis Fauquier, deceased, shipped by John Norton.
| 2 fine dble Gloster Chases | 0:18:10 |
| Lead for Do. | 0: 8:11 |
| Fine beef | 13: 6: 3 |
| 13 Ox Tongues | 2: 5: 6 |
| 2 barrels of herring - 1000 | 4:10: 0 |
| A pipes of Madeira Wine | 100: 0: 0 |
156.
157.
158.
| 8 loaves lump sugar, 8 loaves refined do., 8 loaves triple do. | 16: 4: 2 |
| 1 large turkey carpet | 5: 0: 0 |
| 12 ½ yds. printed cotton | 0:18: 9 |
| 12 yds. dowlas | 0:18: 0 |
| 1 hair broom and bottle brush | 0: 2: 6 |
| 1 doz. Carboys | 4:10: 0 |
| 25 per cent exchange | 1: 2: 6 |
| 10 per cent for charges | 0:11: 3 |
160.
| 1 bottle brush, 1 doz. carboys | 6: 4: 3 |
| 3 cows, 2 calves | 8:11: 0 |
| 1 quarter veal and head | 0: 7: 0 |
| 34 yds. linnen | 2:11: 0 |
| 18 yds. towelling | 0:10: 0 |
| 7 yds. cotton | 0:10: 6 |
| 15 yds. printed cotton | 1: 2: 6 |
| 49 loaves sugar sterling | 11:16: 8 |
| 37 ½ per cent advance on do. | 4: 4: 3 |
| 1 letter case and perambulater | 2: 0: 0 |
| Suky and her two children Mary and Sall | 105: 0: 0 |
| 17 bottles claret | 2:11: 0 |
| 1 spy glass | 1: 7: 0 |
| 1 pair pistols | 1: 4: 0 |
| 1 lanthorn | 0: 3: 0 |
| 28 yards linnen | 1:17: 4 |
| 1 pair boots and housing | 1:16: 6 |
| 23 ½ yds. plains | 3: 2: 8 |
| 1 barrel tongues | 1:18: 6 |
| Negro Tidus | 41: 5: 0 |
| 4 geldings | 64: 0: 0 |
| 1 blunderbus | 1: 0: 6 |
| Negro Tom | 45: 0: 0 |
| Mary and her child Jemima | 52:10: 0 |
| 1 reading desk | 0: 2: 0 |
| 1 doz. knives and forks | 0:17: 0 |
| 1 ½ doz. ditto and case | 1: 6: 6 |
| 2 lbs. Bohea Tea | 0:17: 6 |
| 1 lb. green ditto | 0:15: 0 |
| A parcel of livery lace and shoulder knots | 2: 0: 0 |
| 1 cask beef 299 lbs. | 4: 7: 2½ |
| 1 bridle 5/3 | 0: 5: 3 |
| 1 camp bed | 1:10: 0 |
| 2 lbs. green tea | 1:10: 0 |
| a parcel of brass and iron | 0:12: 0 |
| 1 champaign box | 3: 2: 0 |
| 1 camp table | 0: 8: 0 |
| 2 Portmantuas | 0:10: 0 |
| 2 tea kettles and 1 chafin dish | 0: 8: 6 |
| 1 case and 5 forks | 0: 5: 0 |
| 1 ½ doz. knives and forks and case | 1: 8: 0 |
| A parcel of tin moulds | 0:10: 0 |
| A parcel of remnants | 2: 2: 0 |
| A microscope | 3: 0: 0 |
| A pair of holsters | 0: 1: 3 |
| 1 chest of tools | 2:15: 0 |
| 3 blank books | 0: 4: 0 |
| 6 yds. white cloth | 3:15: 0 |
| 1 box soap canisters | 0: 1: 3 |
| A parcel of horse clothes | 0:12: 6 |
| A cask beef - 299 lbs. | 4: 7: 2½ |
| A riding chair | 8: 5: 0 |
| 2 cases bottles and paper | 0:10: 0 |
| A parcel of sieves | 0: 5: 6 |
| 1 leather musell ? | 0: 1: 4 |
| 1 tent etc. | 2: 7: 6 |
| 1 tea chest | 0: 5: 0 |
| 2 camp stools | 0: 1: 6 |
| 1 tent cloth | 0:17: 0 |
| 4 trays | 0:10: 4 |
| A parcel bedsteads | 1:10: 6 |
| 1 reading stand | 0: 1: 3 |
| 1 chest | 0: 6: 3 |
| 1 coal skuttle | 1: 0: 0 |
| 1 copper cistern | 1:10: 0 |
| A gelding | 2: 1: 6 |
| Post Chariot | 40: 0: 0 |
| An inkhorne | 0: 3: 9 |
| Chess Board, Men and backgammon table | 4: 0: 0 |
| A parcel stationary | 11: 0: 0 |
| 10 head cattle | 26: 0: 0 |
| Negro John…) | |
| Negro Sall and her child Henry ) | 104: 0: 0 |
| Negro Moll | 30: 0: 0 |
| Negro Manny and her child (The child died for which a discount) | 41: 5: 0 |
| 3 cows | 6: 0: 0 |
| 1 horse old Dimple | 15: 0: 0 |
| An old cart and harness | 5: 0: 0 |
| 25 bushels wheat | 5: 0: 0 |
| 1 inkstand | 0: 7: 6 |
| ½ of two cheeses | 1: 5: 5 |
| ¼ of a jug of oil | 0:10: 0 |
| 1 gross of Malmsey Wine for I. Norton | 12: 0: 0 |
| 1 sedan | 7: 0: 0 |
| A cheese with 35% advance | 1: 5: 5 |
| ¼ of a jug Florence Oyl | 0:10: 0 |
| 6 bottles Malmsey | 0:10: 0 |
| 13 ½ doz. old Hock | 42: 6: 0 |
| 3 bottles Champaine | 0:18: 0 |
| 20 pints Tokay | 3: 0: 0 |
July 20, 1771. [illegible]
165.
[handwrittien note in margin - illegible to wife see p. 153]
166.167.
[handwritten note in margin - illegible to wife - see p. 153, illegible]
168.169.
[illegible handwritten notes in margin]
170.
Nelson, William of York
Letter Book, 1766, 1775.
To Francis Fauquier, Jr.
Aug. 10, 1768…The worked fire screen and Stand, the green silk Damask easy chair, the high bureau with looking glass doors, the oval looking glass, trinkets swords, etc. will be sent to you… I will be glad to hear that she (Mrs. Fauquier) bears her loss better than you fear'd she would. If a general concern would contribute to lessen that of Individuals Mrs. Fauquier hath many to bear a part of hers.
Ibid., 1766-1775 page 83.
[Letter from William Nelson to John Norton of Lond.]
Virginia July 9th 1768.
… P.S. what's to be done with the old Coach? to lay it's Bones here or to be sent home to be new ground in the Mill as old people say they wish for.
[handwritten note - illegible]
Ibid., page 87. [William Nelson to Fauquier's son, Francis Fauquier]
Virginia Augt 16th 1768.170-a
Sir…
… We are in daily hopes of hearing from you, of being inform'd whether the Gentlemen who succeeds to the Government is willing to take the Coach, but particularly that Part of the Furniture, which is to be offer'd to him, because if he declines taking them, the sooner we sell them I think the better.
[Note: Photostat of the following document, the original of which - in handwriting of George Wythe - is in the possession of Dr. Joseph E. Field, of Joliet, Ill., was presented to the Research Department by Dr. Lyman Butterfield in October, 1951.]
155.ARTICLES belonging, as mr Fauquier says, to his father's estate, not mentioned in the inventory [1768]:
- A large Wilton carpet which lay in mrs Fauquier's dressing room.
- A bell-glass-lanthorn which hung on the landing between mr Fauquier's dressing room and the china closet
- Two carved mahogany stands with one glass globe standing on the stairs.
- A square glass lanthorn hanging at the bottom of the stairs.
- Four pair of green painted Venetian shutters.
- A pair of globes -
- A pair of money scales and weights in a case
ARTICLES mentioned in the inventory not accounted for:
[endorsed]
Paper inclosed in Francis Fauquier esq;'s letter to G. Wythe, June 21, 1773.
Copy.
RE TYPED FROM ORIGINAL BY ARCHAEOLOGY
RECEIVED ARCHITECTURE 9/22/67
York County Records
Wills & Inventories
No. 22, pp. 83-89
Inventory of Goods and Effects belonging to the Estate of The Honble Francis Fauquier Esquire Deceased taken at Williamsburg Virginia
84
156.
85
157.
| 1 Leather Trunk | 0: 5: 0 | |
| 34 Yds Coarse white Linnen | 1/6 | 2:11: 0 |
| 36 Towlling in 2 pieces | 1: 0: 0 | |
| 1 Looking Glass | 0: 5: 0 | |
| 9 yds Knife Cloths | 0: 3: 0 | |
| 28 yds Dowlass | 1/6 | 2: 2: 0 |
| 1 old Grate | 0:10: 0 |
86
158.
87
88
159.
89
160.
90
| Tidus | £ 55..0..0 | |
| Lancaster | 70 | |
| Old John | 40 | |
| Young John | 60 | |
| Tom | 60 | |
| Bristol | 55 | |
| Suckey & 2 Children Mary & Sall | 140 |
| Nanny and her Child Sukey | 65 | |
| Sall and her Child Harry | 70 | |
| Hannah | 60 | |
| Doll | 40 | |
| Mary and her Child Iemima | 70 | |
| 785..0..0 |
| 25 Bushels Wheat | a 4/ | 5 |
| Oyl | 2 | |
| 12 Barrels Corn Sold Christopher Ayscough | 6 |
Goods Received by the Executor since the decease of the late Francis Fauquier deceased Shipped by John Norton
91
| Sterling | |
| 4 doz and 4 Scots Hankers | 2:14:2 ½ |
| 1 piece Moree | 2: 6: 0 |
| 2 Ells of drill about | 2: 1: 8 |
| 4 pieces Fustian about 25/ | 5: 0: 0 |
| 1 parcel of Hose about | 1:10: 0 |
| 2 fine dble Gloster Chaeses | 37 ¾ lbs | 18:10 |
| lead for Do | 1:11 a 2 ¾ | 8:11 |
| Fine Beef | 6:1:10 4 ½ | 13: 6: 3 |
| 13 Ox Tongues | 2: 5: 6 | |
| 2 Barrels of Herring | 1000 45/ | 4:10: 0 |
| £70: 6:10 ½ |
| 35 per cent Advance on Ditto | 24:12:4 ½ | |
| 94:19:3 |
| 2 Pipes Madeira Wine recvd since the Death of their Honble Francis Fauquier Esq | 100 |
| £2947:18:0 ½ |
Of the above Goods and Effects there was to the amount of £1762:10:2 ¼ sold in this County by the Executors as will Appear by the account Sales and the remainder of the Goods &c. shipped home by the directions of the Testator and by order of Francis Fauquier Esquire.
AN ACCOUNT SALES of Goods and Effects belonging to the Estate of the late Hon: Francis Fauquier Esq deceased.
92
163.
| 1 pr morees | 2: 6: 0 | |
| 2 pieces Rushea Drab | 2: 4: 9 ½ | |
| 3 pieces brown Holland | 3:14: 0 | |
| 4 pieces Chex hankerchs | 2:14: 2 ½ | |
| 20: 5: 6 | ||
| 35 percent Advance | 7: 1:11 ¾ | 27: 7: 5 ¾ |
93
164.
94
165.
95
166.
| 1 large Turkey Carpet | 5: 0: 0 | |
| 12 ½ yards Printed Cotton 1/6 | 0:18: 9 | |
| 12 yards Dowtass 1/6 | 0:18: 0 | |
| 1 Hair Broom and Bottle Brush | 0: 2: 6 | |
| 6:19: 3 |
| Sterling | ||
| 1 dozen Carboys | 4:10: 0 | |
| 25 percent Exchange | 1: 2: 6 | |
| 10 percent for Chartes | 0:11: 3 | |
| 6: 3: 9 |
96
167.
| 1 Letter Case and Perambulater | 2: 0: 0 | |
| Sukey and her 2 Children Mary and Sall | 105: 0: 0 | |
| 107: 0: 0 |
| 17 Bottles Claret 3/ | 2:11: 0 |
| 1 Spy Glass | 1: 7: 0 | |
| 1 Pair Pistols | 1: 4: 0 | |
| 2:11: 0 |
| 1 Fusie | 1:11: 0 |
| 1 pair Pistols | 2:17: 0 |
| 1 lbs Green Tea | 0:15 0 |
| 1 Curry Comb 5 Brushes 3 dust Shovels & 1 Tea Kettle | 1: 4: 0 |
97
| 1 Blunderbuss | 1: 0: 6 | |
| Negro Tom | 45: 0: 0 | |
| Mary and her Child Iemima | 52:10: 0 | |
| 98:10: 6 |
| 1 Reading Desk | 0: 2: 0 |
| 1 dozen Knives and forks | 0:17: 1 | |
| 1 ½ dozen Ditto and Case | 1: 6: 6 | |
| 2: 3: 7 |
| 2 lbs Green Tea | 1:10: 0 |
| a parcel brass and Iron | 0:12: 0 | |
| 1 Champain Box | 3: 2: 0 | |
| 1 Camp Table | 0: 8: 0 | |
| 2 Portmantuas | 0:10: 0 | |
| 4:12: 0 |
| 3 Tea Kettles and 1 Chafing Dish | 0: 8: 6 | |
| 1 Case and 5 forks | 0: 5: 0 | |
| 0:13: 6 |
| ½ dozen Knives and forks and Case | 1: 8: 0 | |
| a parcel Tin Moulds | 0:10: 0 | |
| a parcel Remnants | 2: 2: 0 | |
| 4: 0: 0 |
| A Microscope | 3: 0: 0 | |
| a pair Holsters | 0: 1: 3 | |
| 3: 1: 3 |
| 1 Chest Tools | 2:15: 0 |
| 3 Blank Books | 4: 0: 0 |
98
| 6 yards white Cloth | 12/6 | 3:15: 0 | |
| 1 Box Soap Canisters | 0: 1: 3 | ||
| 3:16: 3 |
| a parcel Horse Clothes | 0:12: 6 |
| a Cask Beef | 299 lbs | a 3 ½ | 4: 7: 2 ½ |
| a Riding Chair | 8: 5: 0 |
| 2 Cases Bottles and Paper | 0:10: 0 |
| a parcel Sieves | 0: 5: 6 | |
| 1 Leather Musell | 0: 1: 4 | |
| 1 Tent Do | 2: 7: 6 | |
| 2:14: 4 |
| 1 Tea Chest | 0: 5: 0 |
| 2 Camp Stools | 1:6 | 0: 1: 6 |
| 1 Tent Cloth | 0:17: 0 |
| 4 Trays | 0:10: 0 |
| a parcel Bedsteads | 1:10: 6 |
| 1 Reading Stand | 0: 1: 3 |
| 1 Chest | 0: 6: 3 |
| 1 Coal Shuttle | 1: 0: 0 | |
| 1 Copper Cistern | 1:10: 0 | |
| 2:10: 0 |
| a Gelding | 2: 1: 6 |
| Post Chariot | 40: 0: 0 |
| an Inkhorne | 0: 3: 9 |
| for Chess Board Men & Back Gamon Tables | 4: 0: 0 |
| a parcel Stationary | 11: 0: 0 |
| for Jones 10 Head of Cattle | 26: 0: 0 |
| Negro Young John | |
| Negro Sall & her Child Harry | 104: 0: 0 |
| Negro Doll | 30: 0: 0 |
| for Negro Nanny and her Child | |
| The Child died for which a discount of £10 was made by Appraisers | 41: 5: 0 |
| 3 Cows | a 40/ | 6: 0: 0 |
| 1 Horse old Dimple | 15: 0: 0 |
| an old Cart and Harness | 5: 0: 0 | |
| 25 Bushels Wheat 4/ | 5: 0: 0 | |
| 1 Inkstand | 0: 7: 6 | |
| 31: 7: 6 |
99
| ½ of two Cheeses | 1: 5: 5 | |
| ¼ of a Jug Oil | 0:10: 0 | |
| 1 Groce Malmsey Wine for J. Norton | 12: 0: 0 | |
| 13:15: 5 |
| 1 Sedan | 7: 0: 0 |
| a Cheese with 35 percent Advance | 1: 5: 5 | |
| ¼ of a Jug Florence Oyl | 0:10: 0 | |
| 1:15: 5 |
| 6 Bottles Malmsey | 0:10: 0 | |
| 13 ½ dozen old Hock | 42: 6: 0 | |
| 3 Bottles Champaine | 0:18: 0 | |
| 20 Pints Tokay | 3: 0: 0 | |
| 46:14: 0 | ||
| £1762:10: 2¼ |
Nelson, William of York
Letter Book, 1766, 1775
171.To Francis Fauquier, Jr.
Aug. 10, 1768… The worked fire screen and Stand, the green silk Damask easy chair, the high bureau with looking glass doors, the oval looking glass, trinkets swords, etc. will be sent to you… I will be glad to hear that she (Mrs. Fauquier) bears her loss better than you fear'd she would. If a general concern would contribute to lessen that of Individuals Mrs. Fauquier hath many to bear a part of hers.
[Recorded July 1771]
Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, Eds.
October 27, 1768.
Last Tuesday evening arrived in Hampton road, in eight weeks from Portsmouth, the Rippon man of war of 60 guns, Samuel Thompson, Esq; Commander, having on board his Excellency the Right Hon. Norborne Baron de Botetourt, his Majesty's Lieutenant and Governor General of this Colony and dominion. Next morning his Excellency landed at LITTLE ENGLAND, and was saluted with a discharge of cannon there. After tarrying a few hours, and taking a repast, his Excellency set out about noon for this City, where he arrived about sunset. His excellency stopped at the Capitol, and was received at the gate by his Majesty's Council the Hon. the Speaker, the Attorney General, the Treasurer, and many other Gentlemen of distinction, after which being conducted to the Council chamber, and having his commissions read, was qualified to exercise his high office, by taking the usual oaths. His Excellency then swore in the members of his Majesty's Council, after which he proceeded to the Raleigh Tavern, and supped there with his Majesty's Council. His Excellency retired about ten, and took up his lodgings at the palace, which had been put in order for his reception. Immediately upon his Excellency's arrival the City was illuminated, and all ranks of people vied with each other in testifying their gratitude and joy that a Nobleman of such distinguished merit and abilities is appointed to preside over, and live among, them.
[handwritten note in margin- illegible see p. 171-a (1767-1770)]
Burk, John Daly
History of Virginia
Petersburg, 1804-1816
Page 363.
171-a[1768]
Botetourt began his administration with great parade; he met the assembly in a state coach which had been presented to him by the King, and in imitation of his sovereign this equipage was drawn by six white horses, which slowly drew him from the palace to the Capitol-
EXECUTIVE JOURNALS OF THE COUNCIL 1753-1774
[Ms. Virginia State Library - typed ms. in prep. for pub.]
171-bAt a Council held November 6th 1767
…
For Repairs to the Governor's house [Apr.25-Oct.25,1767] --- [£] 57:10: - At a Council held May 7th 1768.
…
For Repairs to the Governor's House [Oct.25,1767-Apr/25,1768] 382:11: - [Lord Botetourt arrived and attended Council Oct. 26, 1768]
At a Council held November 1st 1768
…
For repairs to the Governor's House [Apr.25-Oct.25,1768] --- 91:12: - At a Council held November 7th 1769
…
For Repairs to the Governor's House [Oct.25,1768-Apr.25,1769] - 505: 2: 7 At a Council held May the 4th 1770
…
For Repairs to the Governor's House [Oct.25,1769-Apr.25,1770] -- 312:17: 9
PRO C0-571332 page 49. CW M-244 Reel 45.]
PALACE 1768
[Lord Botetourt to the Board of Trade Nov.12, 1768.]
My Lord
Inclosed is a Copy of a letter from Mr Stuart one of his Majesty's Superintendants which was received by Mr President Blair Friday evening, Nov: 4th He brought it to me early Saturday morning… [more concerning letter and action on it] - Having seen two or three Paragraphs in the English Papers reflecting upon me by the Initial letters of my name, I intreat of Your Lordship, if that method is Continued, that You direct the following words to be inserted in the London Chronicle, if you approve them-Williamsburg Nov: --
Lord Botetourt begs as a favour of those who shall for the future do him the honour to abuse him, that they indulge themselves with writing out his name at length, as he promises to take no other vengeance then will arise from his correcting himself if they hit right, and doing better if he can-I have the Satisfaction to find that the King and Queens Pictures are arrived perfectly safe - Mr Ramsey never did two better- We are all delighted with them- I have the honour to be My Lord Your Lordships Devoted Honble Servant
BOTETOURT.
Williamsburg Nov.12th 1768."
[Noted as "Duplicate-orig.dated 10th Nov. Recd March 7, 1769]
172.
William and Mary Quarterly, 1st series
Vol. 13, page 87.
Meade Family History.
From the palace in Williamsburg to the Capitol was about three quarters of a mile. When his Lordship went down to meet the Assembly it was in much greater style than any Governor of Virginia had ever before displayed.
[On Botetourt]
Ibid, Vol. 16, page 29
[1768]
Williamsburg - The Old Colonial Capitol.
The governor (Botetourt), attended by a numerous retinue of guards, rode from the palace to the capitol in his superbly furnished state coach, drawn by six milk-white horses.
Public Record Office, London
C05, #1372, illegible
Letter from Lord Botetourt
November 1st, 1768.
…As my servants could not keep up with me and the Palace was totally unprovided with everything, I have been asked every day to dinner by the principal Gentlemen, and am at present upon the very best Terms with all. I like their stile exceedingly and augur well of everything that is to happen. My House is admirable, the ground behind it is much broke well planted and watered by beautiful Rills, and the whole in every respect just as I could wish…173.
Virginia Gazette, Wm. Rind, Ed.
January 5, 1769.
To be SOLD on Monday the 9th of January next, at public sale, before Mr. Hay's door, ONE HUNDRED ACRES of LAND, situate in York county, within a Mile of the city of Williamsburg, adjoining his excellency the Governor's pasture, the lands of John Coke, and Daniel Parke Custis, Esq., deceased, and Queen's creek, on which is a piece of fine marsh, a good and convenient landing, also a piece of fine swamp land either for pasturage or meadow, and the high land very good, on which is a good DWELLING-HOUSE, three rooms and a passage on the floor, all convenient out-houses, mostly new and in pretty good repair; also an orchard of about 100 Hughes' crab trees. Six months credit will be allowed the purchaser for the land; which is subject to the widow's dower, and is sold by virtue of a decree of York county court, to satisfy sundry debts due from the estate of Lawson Burfort.
John Ferguson, Executor.
Botetourt, Lord, Letter to Lord Hillsborough
(Bancroft Papers) Vol. II, Va. Notes.
Williamsburg, 10 May, 1769.
"… 52 dined with me yesterday, and I expect at least that number to-day."
Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, Eds.
174.May 11, 1769 (Supplement)
On Monday last his Excellency the Right Honourable Norborne Baron de Botetourt… went in state from the Palace to the Capitol and delivered the following speech to the General Assembly…
Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, Eds.
May 25, 1769.
Last Friday being the QUEEN'S birthday, the flag was displayed on the Capitol; and in the evening his excellency the governor gave a splendid ball and entertainment at the Palace to a very numerous and polite company of Ladies and Gentlemen.
Virginia Gazette, Wm. Rind, Ed.
Thursday, June 15, 1769.
LAST Saturday his excellency WILLIAM TRYON, Esq; Governor of North Carolina, and His Lady, arrived at the Palace in this City, on a visit to his excellency Lord BOTETOURT, and we hear they propose staying sometime with his Lordship, and Mr. Edwards, secretary to his excellency, arrived here; and, we are told his Excellency ROBERT EDEN, Esq; Governor of Maryland, is expected here in a short time.
Tryon, Gov., to Lord Hillsborough
Colonial Records of N. Carolina, Vol. VIII, p. 54.
American History Room - From Tryon's Letter Book.
175.Williamsburg 8th July 1769.
… The very friendly and polite reception I have received from Lord Botetourt and the ease and satisfaction with which I have passed these last four weeks within the circle of his Lordship's hospitality,… have not only greatly restored my health…
Eddie, Wm.
Letters from America, historical
and descriptive, page 4.
Chesapeak Bay,
Sept. 1st, 1769.Yesterday I made an excursion to Williamsburg, the Metropolis of Virginia, the situation of which is by no means equal to York Town. The Capitol where the delegates of the people assemble is neat and elegant; the college and the Governor's palace, are likewise handsome edifices; but I did not distinguish any other buildings which particularly merited observation.
Nelson, William of York
Letter Book, 1766, 1775.
Virginia Gazette, Wm. Rind, Ed.To Francis Fauquier, jr.
Sept. 16, 1769.…We had new doors made to the Wine house, and the key hath been ever since kept by Mr. Carter… Lord Botetourt bought of the furniture to the value of £ 888 and is to pay next month…
Thursday, October 26, 1769.
Yesterday being the day appointed for celebrating the anniversary of his Majesty's birthday, his Excellency the Governor gave an elegant ball at the Palace, where there was a numerous and very brilliant assembly of Ladies and Gentlemen.
Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, Eds.
176.December 28, 1769.
Last Tuesday his Excellency the Governour gave a ball and elegant entertainment at the Palace to the Gentlemen and Ladies of this City.
Brock, Robert A.
Virginia and Virginians
Vol. II, page 465.
1770.
[Two views of stove - Inscription below.]
Old Colonial Stove
Made in London in 1770, by Buzaglo, and presented by the Duke of Beaufort to the first Virginia House of Burgesses.
Botetourt Papers
Virginia State Library, Archives.
177.London the 15th, August 1770.
My Lord
Sensible of the obligation by your Lordship's order I thankfully acknowledge the favour, flattering myself of having discharged my duty therein, and that it will merit Your Lordship's approbation, assuring Your Lordship that cost nor trouble was spared in the execution; The Elegance of workmanship and Impression of every particular joint, does honour to Great Britain, it excels in grandeur any thing ever seen of the kind, and is a Master piece not to be equalled in all Europe, it has met with General Applause, and could not be sufficiently admired. The said machine etc." is contained in Seven Cases, and Inclosed Directions for Erecting it etc." Your Lordship will be pleased to order the strict observance thereof, as I am very particular, that it may be faithfully Erected, I am with most profound respect,
My Lord
Your Lordships
most obedient
& most humble Servt:
Buzaglo
Botetourt Papers
Virginia State Library, Archives
178.1770.
DIRECTIONS FOR USING THE WARMING MACHINES.
- 1 Put on Cinders enough as high as the Blowing-Hole.
- 2 Put on the Cinders a Handful of dry Chips and Shavings.
- 3 Put on the chips Some Cinders and some fresh Coals.
- 4 Set the Chips a fire till they flame well.
- 5 Shut the great Door, and keep the little one open.
- 6 Put on more fresh Coals, and keep a good Fire till the Machine is hot, then a small Fire will do for the rest of the Day.
- 7 If the Machine draws too fast, keep the Blowing-Door rather less than Half open, and that will weaken the Draught.
- 8 Take the ashes out every Morning and sweep the Machine and funnel quite through once a Week.
- 9 When you want to renew the Fire, rake backwards and forwards all the Cinders, and put on fresh Coals if required.
- 10 Let the Body of the Fire, be always higher than the little Door.
- 11 If you want the Fire to keep in long and save Coals, bring all the Fire in a Heap, in the Middle of the Machine; put on a large Coal, Keep the little Door but one third open and the Damper (if any) half open.
- 12 Never make too strong a Fire; for if you do, it will smell like a Box-Iron; in such case, open your Air-Pump or the large Coal-Door for eight or ten Minutes, and it will carry off the offensive Smell.
- 13 If your Chimney smoaks, and the Fire will not light, open six inches of Sash-window; set your Chips and Shavings a Fire; when they are well lighted, shut the large Door, and keep the little one open; close your Sash, and it will smoke no more.
Virginia Gazette, Purdie & Dixon, Eds.
September 6, 1770.
Last Sunday arrived at York, from Annapolis in Maryland, his Excellency ROBERT EDEN, Esq. Governour of that Province, with his Lady, the Hon. WILLIAM FITZHUGH, Esq; one of the Council there, and Miss Darby. Upon notice of their arrival LORD BOTETOURT sent his coach for them, which brought them to the palace that evening.
Virginia Gazette, Wm. Rind, Ed.
Thursday, October 18, 1770.
On Monday the 15th instant, about One o'Clock in the Morning departed this Life, universally lamented throughout this Colony, his Excellency the Right Honourable NORBORNE Baron de BOTETOURT, his Majesty's Lieutenant Governor General and Commander in Chief of the Colony and Dominion of Virginia, and Vice Admiral of the same.
Truly and justly to express the many great Virtues and amiable Qualities which adorn'd this noble Lord, as well in his public as private Character, would demand the Skill of the ablest Penman. Suffice it then to inform such Parts of the World as were strangers to his transcendent Merits, that Virginia, in his Fall, sorely laments the Loss of the best of Governors, and the best of Men. Let his distant Relations and Friends be told that we have all anticipated, and shall, to the latest Period, share their Griefs and deep Afflictions; and that we condole with them, with the Warmth of the most tender Affection.
[handwritten notes in margin - illegible]
179.Botetourt Papers
Virginia State Library, Archives.
181.Virginia Octor. 30th 1770.
My Lord Duke
It is with infinite concern that we acquaint your Grace with the death of his Excellency Lord Botetourt, our late most worthy Governor; which happened on the 15th Inst. after about three weeks Illness. We think we may venture to say that never was a loss more universally lamented; so large a share had his Lordship, by his many endearing Qualities, gain'd of the affections of all Ranks of people; and we flatter our selves that your Grace will be persuaded that every human Effort was exerted to preserve a life, in which this whole Colony considered herself so exceedingly interested.
Some embarressments were occasion'd by his Lordsp's having omitted, till it was too late, to give directions about his affairs here; these, however, it was endeavour'd to remedy in such manner, as will be best explain'd by the enclos'd Transcript from the Records of our General Court then sitting. The funeral was attended with some expence, of which particular Accounts shall hereafter be transmitted to your Grace. The Managers &, we believe, the whole Country thought themselves called upon by every sentiment of Gratitude & affection to pay the most respectful regard to his Lordship's memory, and it will afford them no small satisfaction, if the manner in which it was conducted, should meet with the approbation of your Grace, and his Lordship's other friends in England.
We have made an exact and perfect Inventory of his Lordsp's effects, of which you will receive a copy inclos'd. Thinking it rather indelicate to particularize his Lordsp's wearing apparel in the Inventory we have there omitted it, but, for your satisfaction we send you a distinct account of every Article. Some few things in the House, of which we inclose a Memorandum, are of so perishable a nature, that we judge it most prudent to dispose of them as soon as possible, and will take care to have it done in the best manner. As to the rest; your Grace will be pleas'd to give such Orders about them, as you may think proper. It occurs to us, as probable, that some of the Articles, which you may not chuse to have sent over to England, may suit his Lordship's Successor; many pieces of the Furniture are in the best taste, and we believe most of the liquors are good in their kind. The Slaves are reckon'd orderly & valuable, &, perhaps, may be convenient to our next Governor. His Lordsp brought over with him a good many white 180. Servants, and, after a short trial, found it convenient and necessary to purchase and hire Negroes to assist in the business of his family, and do the Drudgery without Doors. We presume your Grace will have no inclination to transport the Horses to England; and, upon considering that the expence of maintaining them, till your pleasure can be known, must be very considerable, we have thought it advisable to accept an offer made by a Gentleman, by which he agrees to take them all at the same prices they cost his Lordship, and keep them at his own expence Risque, till a new Governor arrives, and, if he chuses it, to let him have them at the same Rates; this proposal was made and accepted, as well to save Charges to the Estate, as that the Governor may be accommodated with a Sett of horses immediately on his arrival if he should incline to take these.
We have thought it advisable to retain in the Service of the Estate William Marshman, who proved a most valuable and faithful Servant to his Lordship, that the Furniture and other things may be taken care of, and we have also continued, as his Assistant, Thomas Fuller another excellent Servant, till we receive you Grace's commands.- Permit us, if your Grace should incline to treat with a succeeding Governor for any of the Articles contain'd in the Inventory, to recommend referring the several prices to an Appraisement to be made here by some reputable and judicious persons upon Oath.
The exceeding great respect we bear to his Lordship's memory will ever incline us to render every acceptable Service, in our power to your Grace and all others, with whom he was connected; if therefore you should think fit to honour us with your Commands, we have only to beg the favour of you to be as particular and explicit as possible in every respect that we may be able with the greater certainty and precision to answer your Graces Expectations and wishes.
We have the honour to be your Grace's
Most respectful and Obedt. hble. Servts.
by
(Wm. Nelson )
(Jno. Randolph )
(Robt. Carter Nicholas )
(Geo Wythe )
(Jno Blair )
Botetourt Papers
Virginia State Library, Archives.
205.In Inventory of the Personal Estate of his excellency Lord Botetourt began to be taken the 24th of Octor. 1770.
Cash found in the house £ 57.2.1½
In the front parlour
- 2 Leather Smoking Chairs
- 2 Card Tables, Mahogony
- 1 Walnut Writg Table
- 1 Couch Mahogony frame covered with checks
- 2 small looking glass
- Fry Jefferson's Maps of Virga
- Bowen's & Mitchell's Map of N. America
- 1 pr. Tongs, Shovel poker Fender and hearth Broom
- 11 Chelsea China figures. 2 Venitian blinds
In the Closet
- 1 old finear'd Beaureau
- 1 Mahogy Card Table
- 1 large Black Ink stand
- 1 small Japan'd do
- 1 Green wax Taper & stand
- 1 Venitian blind
- 1 Glass Lanthern
- 14 Med. Tapers
In the Hall & Passage below
- 2 Mahy. red damask Elbow chairs covered with checks
- 8 chairs of the same
- 10 large globe lamps
Dining Room
- 2 leather smokg chairs
- 12 Mahy chairs hair bottoms
- 1 large mahy ding table
- 1 smaller do
- 1 walnut writg table
- 1 mahogy plate warmer & 12 bottle stands
- 1 mahogy wine cooler
- 1 mahogy library table containg papers public & private
- 1 mahogy Desk, containg sundry papers private & public, one embroidd pocket book, a miniature drawing, 1 Diamd mourng ring & a pair of Gold sleve buttons, pruning Knife & a steel pencil.
- 1 white wax taper & stand
- 1 black Ink stand
- 13 wax portraits
- 1 Shovel, pair Tongs poker & Fender & hearth broom
- 1 Mahoy fire screen
- 11 Chelsea china figures
- Henry's Map of Virga
- 1 Oval lookg Glass
- 3 Venitian blinds
- 1 East india fire lock
- 1 Small readg desk, 1 large oyl Cloth at Mr. Kids
- 1 full round box & 3 pieces of English Sweet Meats -part of a Box of Barbadoes Sweet Meats -part of a Box rock Sugar - Part Box candid Lemon Peale-Part of a Box of English Sweet Meats 4 dozen Oranges-
In the Bowfat
- 2 large enamd China bowls
- 2 lessr blue & white do
- 2 pr. English china Candlesticks
- 56 pieces ornamental china
- 12 large cut water Glasses
- 12 Small do
- 4 large cut glass tumblers
- 3 small
- 28 cut wine glasses
- 4 strong beer glasses
- 1 Hock glass
183.
Ball Room
- 3 large mahogy dining tables
- 1 large round walnut do.
- 12 mahogy chairs hair bottoms
- 1 large dutch stove
- 3 glass lustres with 6 branches each & gauze covers
- 2 large paintings of the King & Queen gauze covers
- 2 Venetian blinds
Supper Room
- 1 large dutch Stove
Powder Room
- 1 Boot Jack
- 1 old pine table
- 2 coppr coal seuttles
- 1 Wig block with Screw Stands
- 1 copper warmg pan
- 6 old japan candlesticks
- 1 Brass do.
- 1 stone Cistern with brass cock
- 1 small wire cage
- 4 wooden do.
- 2 japan bread baskets
- 4 tin & wicker plate baskets
- 2 Fowling pieces
- 1 large & 1 small hair Sieve
- 1 green hand. Carvg knife
- 4 round large glasses for candles
- (A parcel of old glass Tho's. Perquisite)
Little middle Room
- 2 oval mahogy tea boards brass hoop
- 1 Trivet, 1 Hanger, Cheese toaster
- 1 Oak Linnen press
- 1 Scollop'd claw tea table
- 1 Fender, poker tongs & Shovel
- 1 hearth brush & pair bellows
- 1 old oak chest of Drawers
- 1 old umbrella
- 19 japanned Waiters
- 1 small wire bird cage
- 1 coppr boiler 2 large tea kettles
- 2 japd cake baskets
- 5 Maps
Closet to the little Room
- 3 dutch lead boilers with heaters
- 1 do. do. tea kettle
- 4 do. coffee pots & lamps
- 1 hand do. mill
- 1 do. do. fix'd
- 2 Coppr coffee pots
- 3 chocolate pots with four mills
- 1 lime squeeser & stand
- 3 sugar hatchets
- 1 large butter scoop
- 3 toasting forks
- 2 Sieves
- 2 Japan'd tea chests & cannisters
- 4 Japd sugr tongs
- 1 large blue & white Tea pot
- 2 red china tea pots
- 6 blue & white breakft cups & saucers
- 12 do. small
- 6 do. Coffee cups
- 1 do. sugr bason
- 1 do. slop bason
- 1 do. cream pot with top & stand
- 1 do. tea jug with top & stand
- 1 do. bread & buttr plate
- 4 staffordshe coffee pots
- 4 do. tea pots
- 2 do. qt. mugs
- 3 do. pt. mugs
- 3 do. cream pails & ladles
- 10 do. fruit baskets & 14 dishes
- 2 do. lip'd cream pots
- 7 do. sugr basons
- 2 do. buttr basons
- 29 do. tea cups & 64 saucers
- 30 do. coffee cups
- 8 do. wash hand Basons
- 3 do. qt. slop basons
- 7 do. bowls
- 1 do. pickle stand
- 7 do. small breakft plates
- 16 do. large do. do.
- 24 do. soup plates
- 68 do. shallow do.
- 1 tin canister painted old
- 1 do. funnel
- 1 wooden lemmon strainer
- 2 wicker plate baskets
- 1 Iron cork screw
- 5 tin canisters plain
- 1 wooden bowl
- 5 bottles arrack & 6 barbadoes Spirit
Pantry
- 1 Ticken couch, Mattrass boulster 3 blankets white quilt & red check covering
- 1 Library Table with a Stool
- 1 Wash hand bason, bottle & stand
- 1 Mahogy Beaureau. 1 smal blk. walnut Table
- 1 Chest of tools
- 1 small drying horse for linnen
- 1 small washing tub. 1 Fender, poker tongs and Shovel. 1 toastg fork, 1 hearth brush.
- 4 Meat & 2 Glass trays of Mahogy
- 1 wire bird cage with balance weight
- 1 small coppr tea kettle
- 2 Maps. 14 prints. 1 iron chest in closet next the fire & 2 braces of pocket pistols
- 1 cloath's brush
Pantry continued Closet [Sic]
- Broken pots of pickles
- Vials of colour'd Sugars
- 4 ½ Vials of Capilare
- Phyzic closet contains a variety of Medicines, & a case of Instruments in Surgery
- 2 pair of Apothecaries Scales
- 2 Wire & 2 wooden cages
- 1 Shavg pot, Basson & case of 6 Rasors
- 1 Stone. 1 Water jug
- 1 Lanthorn, 1 small tin funnel. Vinegar jug. part of a jug of Lamp, and part of a jug of sweet Oil
- 40 bottles of Rum, & 2 of Virga Cyder
- 4 do. Burgundy. 24 of Madeira
- Thread pins &c in library table draw
- 7 Setts of card counters in 3 damask silk bags
- 6 doz. Mould tallow candles. 5 doz. dipp'd do.
- 7 do. & 3 spermaciti do. 7 large wax do.
- 1 do. & 10 large night lamps wax
- 5 do. of small do.
- 5 do. & 7 wax tapers
- 4 mahogy & 1 walnut knife box
- 3 doz. strong black handle knives & forks little us'd
- 31 black handle knives & 35 forks pretty much worn
- 34 buck handle knives & 35 forks
- 5 Green handle carving knives & forks
- 1 do. white china handle
- 3 Staffordshire Mugs & Bason
- 3 large japann'd Jacks, 1 half pint mug
- 1 Small dutch oven
- 13 japann'd hand waiters
- 2 japann'd wine cisterns
- 1 Lignumvita stand with 4 casters
- 2 small Cedar tubs omitted
Plate in the Pantry
- 27 Dishes
- 60 Plates
- 1 Turin & Ladle
- 8 Buttr boats
- 1 Bread basket
- 1 Large tea board
- 4 Salvers
- 1 Large waiter
- 6 small hand do.
- 6 Large Salts & Shovels
- 1 Wash bason
- 1 Chamber pot
- 2 Half pint cans
- 1 large Lamp
- 1 small do.
- 6 small Salts & Spoons
- 4 Carving Spoons
- 3 Soup Spoons
- 1 Stand with 3 Casters & 2 cruets
- 3 Large Casters
- 16 Candlesticks. 1 flat Candlestick
- 2 Taper Candlesticks
- 3 pr Snuffers with 1 Stand & 1 pan
- 8 French plate Candlesticks
- 3 do Soop Ladles
- 1 Silver fish Slice
- 1 do. Lemon Strainer
- 1 do. writing stand. Bell & 2 Casters
- 2 do. Branches with 4 Nozzles
- 2 do. do with 2 do
- 2 do. do with 1 do
- 2 Nozzles & pans
- 6 Gold cups
- 18 silver bottle Labells
- 3 do punch Ladles
- 8 Skewers
- 1 Wine strainer
- 30 Tea spoons
- 2 pr Sugr tongs
- 2 Cream pots
- 12 Card counters
- 54 large Knives & 55 forks with 3 prongs
- 2 black Shagreen Cases containg each
- 1 Doz large knives & 1 Doz. fork & 1 Doz. --- and large table Spoons.
- 1 Case containing 1 doz Knives & 1 doz Forks with China Handles
- 1 small Shagrine Case contg 1 doz Desert Gilt silver handled Knives; 1 doz Silver Forks & one doz Spoons
- 1 do. contg 1 doz silver handled Desert knives & Forks & 1 doz Spoons
- 1 do. contg eleven Silver handled desert knives -
- 1 Doz. large table Spoons with Lady Hereford's Arms
- 1 ½ Doz large table Spoons engraved with a unicorn
- 1 Sheffield ware tea Kitchen
- 2 pr. ornamental steel Snuffers & stand
- 1 do. steel spring snuffers
- 3 do. common
- 1 large metal oval dish
Glass in Pantry
- 5 cut glass wine decanters
- 16 plain qut do.
- 12 quart water do.
- 4 pint do.
- 4 long beer glasses
- 6 flowerd small ones
- 3 large cut beer glasses
- 28 do. plain do.
- 6 flowered wine glass & 13 Hock glasses
- 1 large tumbler & 10 small ones
- 3 Canns
- 6 double flint cut Salts
- 35 plain wine Glasses
- 30 flowered do.
- 4 glass cruits 2 small flowered do.
- 40 cut wash hand glasses & 47 saucers
- 8 ground stoppers
- 3 pr. nut crackers 1 iron cork screw
Memorandum
- Mr. Treasurer recd in charge His Lordship's watch Seal & Key
- 1 Dia. Hat button
- 2 Gold & 1 steel seals
- 1 Diamd ring for Lady Winne
- 2 pr. of gold buttons
- a Lady's picture in Miniature
- a Diamd stock buckle
- a pr. of stone Shoe & Knee buckles
- a Silver stock buckle (Marshman has it)
- 1 red leather case contg a pr. of stone Shoe & knee buckles.
- 1 Shagreen do. of paste Shoe buckles
- 1 do. of 8 chaced spoons & sugr tongs
- 1 pr. cut Steel shoe Buckles; 2 pr plain Shoe & knee Buckles - 2 Morocco Pocket Books
- 3 Cases Surveyor's Instruments; 2 Snuff Boxes
- 1 small Ivory box; 1 tooth pick Case
- Sundries packt in a small Mahogony Cases -
Passage up Stairs
- 6 large globe glass Lamps
- 1 Spider table
- 12 Mahogy hair bottom chairs
Library
- 1 Shovel, tongs, poker fender, hearth broom
- Map of N. & S. America
- 20 prints
- 1 blue venetian blind
- 1 Wilton carpet
- Books as pr Catalogue with the 2 Curtains which cover them
- 1 Japann'd ink stand, 1 green wax taper with japann'd stand.
189.
Closet off the Passage up stairs
- 12 doz packs playing cards
- 30 packs of Message cards
- 11 Buckling Combs 5 tooth brushes
- parcel of tooth picks 6 Tobacco pipes
- 19 Doz & 5 short tapers contain'd in 9 papers
- 3 doz. long wax candles
- 5 do. & 2 middling wax tapers
- 6 do. large wax lusters
- 14 do. smaller size do.
- A parcel of broken wax candles
- 11 bunches of green wax tapers
- 14 do. white do.
- 24 lb of chocolate
- A canister of about 4 ½ lb of Hyson Tea
- 2 large & 1 small canister
Chamber over the Dining Room
- 1 Oak bedstd with chints curtains & valens bed, bolster a pr. of pillows, 2 Matrasses
- 2 blankets & white quilt, 1 bed Carpet
- 1 Mahogy night table
- 8 Green bamboo chairs with check'd Cushions
- 1 Mahogy cloaths press
- A green hammer cloth laced with gold
- A pr. of Pistols with furniture housing gold laced
- 5 Small Swords & some of his Lordshp's wearing apparel
- 1 Mahogy Desk, empty
- 1 Painted chimney board
- 1 Iron Grate, Shovel, tongs poker, fender & hearth broom
- 2 pr. green stuf window Curtains & rods
- 1 Japann'd Ink stand, white taper & stand
- 1 Old Mahogy dressg table
In the Closet
- Small lookg Glass mahog. frame
- Small Mahog. table with leaves
- Wash bason & mahog. stand compleat
- Large deal toilet table
Chamber over the Front Parlour
- 1 Oak bedstd with a suit of white callico curtains & valens, bed, bolster, pr. of pillows & white Virga cloth counterpane, & carpet
- 4 Green Bamboo chairs with check cushions
- 1 Cloaths press Mahogy
- 1 Mahog. chest of draws
- 1 Small walnut table
- 1 Chimney board, Grate, Shovel, tongs, poker, fender, & hearth broom
- 1 wash Bason with Mahogy stand compleat
- 1 Japann'd ink stand, 1 white taper & stand
Middle Room
- 1 Large chimney Glass gilt carv'd frame & 4 gilted brackets
- 3 Suits of Window curtains
- 1 Desk & book case with glass doors, empty
- 2 Mahogy cloaths presses with apparel, 2 snuff boxes, 1 small ivory box & the Seal of the Colony
- 8 Crimson damask chairs with red check covers
- 1 small do.
- 1 large easy arm chair
- 1 do. Mahog. table
- 2 Small do. and do.
- 1 Wash Bason Mahog. stand Compleat
- 1 Chimy board, Grate, fender, shovel, tongs, poker and hearth brush
191.
His Lordship's Bed Chamber
- A Gold Watch, and walking Cane
- 1 Mahog. Bedst., 2 Matrasses, 1 Bolster
- 2 Pillows, 2 blankets, 1 white Quilt & bedstead in 3d. Store Room.
- Chints & green cotton furniture & 1 bed Carpet
- 1 Mahog. Night table with close stool pan & chamber pot
- 1 Large Walnut chest of draws containg his Lodp's Linnen, Gloves, Stockgs, &c 3 Seal Skin cases of Surveyor's Instruments &c, 1 Shagreen case containg 8 Chas'd Silver tea spoons & 1 pr of tongs, 1 do., a pair of paste buckles, 1 red leather case a pr. of stone shoe & knee buckles, 2 Morrocco Asses Skin Pocket books of Memorandums, 1 deal box, 1 diamd stock buckle
- 1 pr. stone shoe & knee buckles
- 1 diamd Hatt buckle, 2 gold seals, 1 steel do. 3 gold loops & 3 gold hat buttons, 5 parcels of silver livery hat lace with loops & buttons
- 1 pr. of Gold buttons, 6 Sets of mourng shoe & knee buckles
- 5 pr. of sleeve buttons, mourng
- 2 pr. of gild'd buckles
- 3 Gild'd stock buckles
- 2 Sets of New steel Shoe & knee buckles, 1 pr cut steel Shoe Buckles
- pr. old do. 5 moung stock buckles
- 1 Silver stock buckle
- 3 Steel breeches buckles
- 1 Handsome toothpick case
- 1 Small chest of draws some stockings & caps
- 8 Yellow bottom chairs & two stools of walnut
- Grate, fender, Shovel, poker, tongs & hearth broom
- 1 Japen ink stand & taper with stand
- 1 Mahogy dressg table
IN THE STORE ROOMS.
1st.
- 10 Loaves treble refined Sugar
- 22 do. Double
- 27 do. single
- ¾ of a Chest of Congo Tea. 21 ½ lb. Turkey Coffee, 22 ½ wt. India do.
- 6 lb. Cannister of do.
- 4 Jars of Raisins
- A broken Case of different Sorts of Spices
- A Box of Corks. a Box of Tar.
- 1 large Chest; 3 plate Boxes & a leather plate Case
- 1 old Leather Trunk with Papers said to belong to the late Govr. Fauquier
- 1 old traveling Trunk, 1 small empty deal Box-
- 1 old traveling Leather Trunk-
- 6 empty deal Boxes
- 26 prs. plain Negroes Shoes
- 32 hair sifters of different sorts
- 11 gauze do.
- 5 tin Funnels, 1 muffin Toaster- 1 toastg Fork- 1 wine Crane-
- 3 Egg strainers
- 2 large & 4 small Graters - 1 wooden rolling Pin
- 3 Soup & 1 doz. table Pewter Spoons
- 3 butter Scoups - 7 paint Brushes
- 6 small & 10 large wooden Spoons
- 4 tin fish strainers - 5 Iron tin'd Ladles - 2 tin sauce Pans
- 32 balls pack thread - 2 plate Baskets
- 20 large Lamps with Irons & tin Covers
- 3 black Japan Cans - 2 tin pepper Boxes - 4 tin Candle Sticks-
- 50 lb. of Starch - 3 tin Cullondars
- 1 broken paper pearl Bailey - 2 do. white mackaroons - 2 do. yellow do. - 1 broken paper Bag of morells - 1 do. Truffles -
- 1 do. Gensing 1 do. snake Root - 3 cannisters flour of mustard-
- 2 Powder Machins - 1 paper green grass
- 1 broken paper of stone blue - 28 lb. powder'd blue - 6 lbs. sweet Almonds, 6 lb. do. in Shells - a large Paper of Sarsaparilla- 2 Boxes Bristol Soap 20 Cakes Soap in another box-
- 2 ½ lb. Beeswax - 26 lb common hair powder - 27 lb. best do.
- 5 Carpet Brooms, 3 Hearth do - 6 doz cain brooms, 2 do whisks
- 3 iron dust Pans - 2 coal do. & mpps. - 16 hair dust brushes - two Bottle
- Brushes - 3 wooden lemon strainers - 13 Plate Brushes
- 7 hearth stones - 3 quart Bottles Wine - 2 pints Strong waters not full, 1 small Cruet & 3 phials
- 2 cloaths Brushes - shoe Brushes-
- 10 dry rubing brush Clamps - 8 flat clamp brushes -
- 1 ps. Holland - 3 ps. sheeting
- 11 ¾ yds. coarse Irish linen-
- 17 yds. do. 12 yds do. 13 ½ yds Hoccaback
- 10 yrds Holland Sheting - 2 yrds worstead gauze - 1 ps. Moreco
- 1 ps. fine Damask Napkining. - 21 damask breakfast Clothes-
- 2 ps. Oznabrigs
- 37 yds Oznabrigs - 76 yds. & ¼ do.
- 4 ps. checkt Handchiefs -
- 7 checkt Handerchiefs -
- 8 ¼ yds. brown Holland - 5 ½ yds. printed Cotton - 1 Woman's Cotton Gown 5
- small remnants of white Flannel.
- 1 ps. crimson Shalloon - 1 ps. Br. Fustian
- 18 ¾ yds. do. - 8 ½ crimson Shag.
- 21 ¾ yds. crimson Cloth, & a remnant of Livery Lace - 17 yds. light cold do.
- 9 yds. light cold do. - 20 ½ yds. blue plains
- 8 ¼ Green do. - 2 ps. & 18 ¾ yds. Prussia Drab - 1 Bale unopen'd contg 3 ps. green & 3 ps. blue plains-
- 11 Men's Castor Hats - 23 pr. coarse thread Hose - 23 pr. worstead do.
- 25 pr. yarn do. - 4 Parcels of worstead & 3 of Metal Buttons -
- 1 paper & a piece of Pins - 19 pieces of white Tape
- 2 ps. green ferriting - 6 cut pieces of Ribband of difft sorts -
- 37 hks. Mohair of different Sorts - 7 Bunches of cruels
- 32 hks. &. Ball of Silk - 12 Bunches Thread - 1 doz thread Laces - 16 papers of thread & 2 doz. thread waistcoat buttons-
- 2 small brown Linen bags - a dble body Girth - 1 horn handled carving Knife & 2 forks - 5 pr. spring steel Snuffers - 3 pocket Knives - 2 pr. Scissors wth Shagrine Cases- 2 dble Pen Knives- 2 steel Pencils - 6 wooden Pencils - a chagrine case of Raisors &c. 11 Oyster Knives - 1 Hone & 1 Raisor Strap
- 18 empty Kniffe & Raisor sheaths
- 7 quires Cartridge & a Ream of common brown Paper - a Parcel of Shells - 2
- Bows & 12 Arrows - a Pott of bitter almond Powder-
- 4 old Cartouch Boxes
- 2 Bayonets - 1 brass Fender - 1 very small Mahogany Box
2d. Store Room
- 33 large Beer Glasses. 8 Cruetts-
- 6 qt. water Decanters 2 pint do-
- 1 qt. & 1 pt. wine decanter
- 45 Wine Glasses, 28 Hock do. 29 wash hand glasses wth 21 saucers
- 2 large glass shades - 4 glass Covers - 28 Japan'd tea boards- & waiters - 2 Japan'd Cheese Trays - 2 flat green Candlesticks Snuffers & Extinguishers - 9 Japan'd Candle Extinguishers - 6 pr. common Snuffers.
- 3 green taper Candlesticks - one broken
- 14 copper paste moulds, 1 plate Basket, 6 wooden moulds,
- 1 Dutch metal Tea Kitchen, 2 Tea Kettles, 1 copper Boiler
- 3 Dutch metal Coffee Pots -
- 11 Tin Night Candlesticks & 1 tinder Box -
- 1 Tin Still - 12 pewter Water Plates
- 3 doz. pewter plates - 12 blue & white China Tea Cups & 12 blue & white
- China Tea Cups & 12 Saucers
- 6 do. Coffee Cups - 1 do milk pot - 2 Slop Basons & 1 sugar dish
- 10 white do. Coffee Cups & 10 Saucers
- 2 Cream Pales & Ladles - 1 slop Bason & Sugar Dish - 2 white stone Tea Pots-
Staffordshire Ware
- 7 Coffee Pots - 3 Tea pots - 3 Sugar Basons
- 9 Butter Basons - 12 Tea Cups - & 24 Saucers
- 39 Soup Plates - 133 Shallow do. - 15 breakfast plates
- 36 smaller do. 2 flower Pots
- 1 wash Bason & 1 Bowl - 17 water Bottles
- 15 lip Jugs - 6 round do. - 6 Lamps -
- 3 Stone close stool Pans-
3d. Store Room
- 100 feet fly Lattice - 100 feet Bird Cage do.
- 1 chimney Board belonging to the dining Room-
- 1 Canvass Portmantua - 1 gr- coat bag -
- 2 Curtain Rods - 4 Window Blinds - 4 Leather Portmantuas -
- 1 pr. Saddle Bags - 2 Leather straps - 3 wooden curtain frames A long Box of Gilt borderings intended for the supper Room.
- Donn's Map of Bristol - 1 Box Bermuda Coral - 1 Chinese Temple set with Shells
- Part of a bag of black lead - an old Box with a little whiting in it - 3 kegs with small Quantitie's of Colours-
- 2 spare Branches &c belonging to the Lustre in the Ball Room-
- 3 doz. brass branches unopen'd
- A Paper of Prussian Blue - 2 ½ doz small Pullies -
- 6 brass branches for Globe Lamps
- 1 Bunch brass large Curtain Rings & 2 Bunches of small-
- a paper of white Studds
- a parcel of Nails with brass Heads & small Tacks - a parcel of white Tacks-
- an empty deal Box - 3 Mahogany waiters
4th. Store Room
- 60 flint glass Bottles for preserving Insects - 2 Remnants of Rush Matting
In the Passage up-Stairs-
- 4 large Chests & 2 Trunks - 4 wooden Bird Cages -
In a Closet
- 3 blue moreen window Curtains belonging to the dining Room -
- 1 blue baise do. for Supper Room - 4 pr. Blankets
- 1st. Chest contg a Parcel of Maps & Prints-
- 2d. 2 green Damask Curtains Ozanabrigs intended to paste the paper on in the Supper Room.
- 3d. 2 Venitian Suits of Gauze Curtains - 4 chex covers for the smoaking chairs - a Remnant of silk & 1 do. blue worstead line
- 4th. 4 Remnants of Carpiting.
Garrett Room Over His Lordship's Bed Chamber
- 2 Mahogany field bedsteads wth red chex curtains - 2 feather beds - 2 Mattresses.
- 3 Bolsters, 1 Pillow - 3 Blankets - 2 Quilts - 1 Oak Chest of Draws.
- 1 old red Table; Wash Bason --- stand & Bottle - 1 small mahogy stand, 1 Fender - Donn's Map of Bristol.
195.
in a Closet
- 3 long green Cushians for Stools in the Ball Room -
- Supper Room Carpet - Dining Room do.
- Front Parlour do., Middle Room on second floor do.
- 4 remnants of old mattings - large sand bag for supper Room -
Room over the Study
- 1 old oak Desk - 19 old prints - 1 old red Table - 1 Bedstead, Mattrass, bolster 2 blankets - 1 red & white flower'd Quilt -
- 1 suit blue & white Linen Curtains - 2 old wire Bird Cages
Garret Room over the Front Parlour
- 1 Field bedstd feather bed, matrass bolster, pillow 1 blanket
- 1 Quilt red checks Curts
- 1 Mahogy night table. 1 mah. Desk
- 1 Pewter bed pan. 1 claw fire screen
- 1 Small black walnut table
- 1 Grate, fender poker, tongs & shovel
- 1 Wash hand bason & stand compleat
- 1 old red japann'd table
- 1 japann'd Ink stand
Cellars
- in the Passage 6 Casks strong & 6 do small Beers - unopen'd
- 1 Barrel of Cranberries
- 1 Hogshead Molasses Beer
- 2 empty Hhds 2 powdering Tubbs
(small beef cellar)
- 1 empty Carboy; 7 Iron Hoops - 1 empty cask - 2 Bushel Cask of Split Pease
the Passage
Rum Cellar
- 1 Hhd. Rum & abt 1/3. 2 brass Cocks. 2 earthen pans - stooper -
Stone Cellar
- abt 11 doz. Hatwell water. 4 doz. gallipots english moist sweet meats - 2 potts Virga sweet Meats - a box & paper of twisted glass & frost - 3 entire & 5 broken Potts of sweet meats - part of a pot of pickled mangoes.
- 1 whole & 1 broken pot of Tamarin
- 4 entire pots of Walnuts. 2 full jars of Currants - 3 full Boxes of Sperma Caeti Candles -
- 11 Bottles of Capers - 3 do. Olives
- 2 do. anniseed Water 1 do. english Ginn
- 1 Whole Box mould tallow Candles 1 pr. of do 1 pr dipt do, a Parcel of old Boxes
Cooks Cellar
- -- Bottles goosberries 3 Bottles dble distill[ed] [Vin]egar
- -- 1/3 of a Cask Currents - 2/3 of a [ca]sk
- -- brown sugar - half Cask Rice -
- 3 of three pots Lard
Binn Cellar
- No. 1 contains
- 17 doz & 4 bottles old Hock - Ben. Hinton [?] 8 ½ doz. do. Mr. Fauquier
- 2. 7 ½ doz. Madeira -
- 3. 37 doz & 7 Madeira
- 4. 9 doz & 3 Bottles English small Beer
- 5. 37 ½ doz. strong beer very fine
- 6. 14 Bottles old Madeira
- 7. 9 doz & 4 Bottles of Porter
- 8. 27 doz & 5 Bottles Claret
- 9. 11 doz & 2 Bottles Burgandy
- 10.18 ½ doz rd Port -
- 11.12 doz & 2 Bottles Madeira
197.
In the Vault
- 6 doz & 8 Bottles of Claret
- 2 doz 1 Bottles white wine
- 16 Bottles Arrack -
- 4 doz. malmsay Madeira - Mr. Fauquier
- 11 doz peach Brandy - 2 Bottles Honey
- 6 Bottles old Claret - 3 Bottles Champaine
- 14 Bottles old Spirits - 6 Bottles fine Arrack
- 11 Bottles french Brandy - 3 doz & 4 Bottles old Spirits
Cydar Cellar
- 1 Barrel peach Brandy - 1 Brass Cocke in an old Cask - 3 doz & 5 Bottles english Cyder - 2 qr. & half Virga Cyder
Strong beer Cellar
- 3 doz 9 Bottles damaged ale -
- 1 Hhd of Rum; abt half a Hhd of Spirits
- 24 doz & 8 Bottles of strong Beer
Madeira & Cheese Store
- 6 Pipes of Madeira Wine -
- small part of a Hogshead of Molasses
- a Case wth about forty pound of Hops
- 2 dble Gloster cheeses - 37 single do. a small Box of Corks & Bottle Stopper.
198.
The Out-Houses
- 1 State Coach, & Harness for a pair of Horses
- 1 Post Chaise, with Harness compleat for four Horses & two draw Boxes (in the Store Room)
- 1 Green park Chair
- 1 Letter and Grease Box
- 1 New Waggon & a Cart, with Harness for Six Horses with Leather Collars & Iron Traces
- 1 Roller, 1 plough, & 1 pair of Harrows, & 1 Bush Frame, and 1 plough paddle
- 5 Grey Coach Horses, & 1 Mare
- 2 Grey Saddle Horses, & 1 Mare & 1 Bay Filly
- 4 Cows, 1 Bull, 5 Stears, and 3 Calves
- 2 Barrow pigs, & 1 Boar at the Attorneys
- 37 Head of Sheep
- 19 Weathers
- 1 Stack of Hay
- 1 Large Wheel Barrow
- 23 Bushels of Indian Corn
- 47 ½ Bushels of Oats
- 23 Bushels of English Wheat
Negroes.
- Hannah
- Sally & her Child Billy
- Doll
- Dan
- Natt Piper
- Cesar
- Phillis
Poultry.
- 20 Turkeys
- 18 Geese
- 9 Ducks
Garden Implements.
- 2 Weeding Knifes, 2 Asparagus Knifes
- 4 Wheel Barrows, 4 pr. Garden Shears, 1 Saw
- 4 Watering pots, 1 Small Hatchet, 3 Baskets
- 5 Spades, 5 Rakes, 4 Large Drawing Hoes
- 3 Small Howes, 3 Dutch Howes, 1 Tarping Spade
- 1 Edging Knife, 1 Dung Fork
- 1 Small Gravel Rake, 1 Dock Iron
- 2 Scythes, 22 Large Bell Glasses, 1 Small Bell Glass
- 21 Dozen of Earthen Flower pots
- 1 Wire Sieve, 1 cap Glass
Park Implements.
- 4 Maddocks, 1 Grubbing hoe, 1 Small Sledge, 4 Maddocks pick Axes, 2 Felling Axes, 1 Broad Axe, 1 small do.
- 1 Faggot Bill, 7 Iron Wedges, 2 Mauls with Iron Hoops, 1 Broad Howe, 8 Spades
- 1 Cross Cut Sawe, 4 Short Forks, 1 pitching Fork, 3 Scythes, 6 Mauls, a parcel of wooden Rakes, 1 Line, 1 Logger, 1 Hand saw,
- 1 Drawing Knife, 2 Augures, a 14 Round Ladder, a 25 do. 1 Waggon Rope, 4 Casks with Clover & Rhye & Grass Seeds, 2 Calf Muzzles, 1 Thistle Paddle, 1 plank of Cherry Tree, 1 Hay Cutting Knife, 7 paddlocks, 6 wheel Barrows, a parcel of Old Lumber, 1 Turkey Coop
Coachman's Room & Closet Adjoyning
- In Deal Cases.
- 6 Horse Sheets, 6 Fillet Cloaths, 3 White Rubbers, 6 Rollers,
- 4 Saddle Cloaths, 2 Inside Brushes, 6 Horse Brushes, 5 Water Brushes, 3 Oyl Brushes, 1 Hard Brush, 1 Brass Brush, 5 Main Combs & Spunges.
- 2 pr. of Stirrup Irons, 2 Spunges, 1 Green Cover for the post Coach.
In Post Coach Trunk
- 8 Horse Nets, Oyl Cloath Cover to Trunks
In Large Deal Case
- 2 Oyl Cloth Portmanteau Cases, 2 Horse Muzzles, 17 Rack Reins,
- 3 Black Stirrup Leathers, 4 Black Straps, 3 Hempen Halters, 4 Currey Combs, 1 Cord & Spunge for ye Horses Mains, 2 pr. of Hobbles, 1 Girt, 6 Horse Collers, new, 6 Do. used, 12 Coller Reins, 14 ½ Sheets of Scowring paper, 2 Coach Horses' Whips.
- 1 Phaeton do. (2 Corn sieves in ye Stable) 1 Field Mahogany Bedstead, 2 mattrasses, 1 bolster, 3 Blankets
- 1 Red and White Flowered Quilt, with Red Check Curtains, 1 old Oak Table, 1 Walnut Writing Desk, 4 Old Green Bottom Chairs,
- 1 Swing Looking Glass, 2 Iron Dogs, with Brass Nobs, 1 poker,
- 1 pr. Tongs, 1 Hair Broom, 1 Boot Jack.
Groom's Room & Closet Adjoyning
- 1 Field Mahogany Bedstead, 2 Mattrasses, 1 Bolster, 3 Blankets,
- 1 Old Red and White Flowered Quilt, with Red Check Curtains,
- 2 old pine Tables, 2 Chamber pots, 1 Close Stool.
- 3 Silver stitched new Sadles, with Saddle Cloths, 1 plain Saddle & Cloth, 1 New Livery Saddle with furniture, 2 Old Livery Saddles with furniture, 1 old plain Saddle, 6 New Snaffle Bridles, 2 New pelham Bit Bridles, with polished Bit, 1 New do. with Gold Bosses, and polished Bit. 1 do. almost New with cased Bit. 1 snaffle Do. with cased Bit, 1 Furniture Bridle with Gold Bosses and Blue Badson, 4 new white Rubbers, 6 Horse sheets almost New, 4 New Fillet Cloaths, 4 New Saddle pannels, 4 New Rollers, 2 Do. a little Worn,
- 5 New Horse Nets, 1 New Red saddle Cloth with white Binding, 1 white do. with Green Bindings, 3 old Furniture Saddle Cloaths,
- 1 new Breast plate to a Saddle, 3 New Heads & Reins, 10 Furniture Bridles,
- 7 pr. new Stirrup Leathers, 1 pr. Do. used
- 2 Watering Bridles
- 1 New Running Martingale, 5 new Cruppers, 3 old Do. 3 pr. old Girts, 15 pr. New single Girts, 6 pr. New Double Do. 3 New Surcingles
- 3 Old Saddles pannels, 2 New mail pillions and straps, 2 new Horse Collers, Old Horse Collers, 6 new Hack Reins, 6 new Hempen Halters
- 1 pr. New Stirrup Straps and Leathers, 1 New Crupper,
- 2 New powder Flasks, 1 pr. Holsters almost new, 3 new thin Skins, 1 New Furniture pad, 12 Brass Saddle Buttons and Staples, 1 New Currey Comb, 1 pr. of polished stirrup Irons, 3 pr. Silver Mounted Horse pistols, 4 new Horse Joggs, 1 New Furniture Whip 1 Boot Jack (1 Half Bushel, 1 Iron Sieve, 1 old Cask in Granary)
Laundry
- 5 Flat Irons, 2 box Irons, with one Heater to each,
- 2 Iron Stands, 1 pr. of Tongs, 1 large Boyling Copper,
- 1 Long Stool, 2 pine Tables, 1 Linnen Horse, 1 mangle-
- 1 Large Iron pot, 1 Brass Skillet, 2 Linnen Baskets,
- 3 Washing Tubs, 2 pails, 1 piggin, 4 mangle Cloaths,
- 2 Ironing Cloaths, 1 Wooden Funnel, 1 Hair Sieve,
- 3 Rensing Tubs (1/3 part of a Barel of Lamp Oyl, a small quantity of tar in ye cellar adjoyning to the Laundry).
Dairy
- 5 Tin pans, 5 Earthen pans, 1 small Chern, 1 pail
- 1 Piggin, 1 small brass kettle, 1 tin Do.
- 1 Large Double Turkey Coop-
Small Room Adjoyning to Poultry House
- 1 Old Mattrass, 2 Old Blankets.
201.
Gardiner's Room
- 1 Small Field Bedstead, Feather Bed, Mattrass Bolster, pillow, 3 Blankets, 1 Red and White Flower'd Quilt, with Green and White Cotton Curtains, 1 Old Pine Table, 1 Old Red Do. 2 Old Iron Dogs, Fender, Tongs and Shovel.
Servant's Hall
- 2 Old Iron Dogs, 1 poker, 2 Old pine Tables, 2 Mahogany Waiters,
- 2 Black Cans
Out Houses Belonging to the Kitchen
Larder
- 2 Barrels pickled Tripe, 1 Whole Kitt of Salmon.
- 1 Piece of Do. 1 Jar of Virginia Mangoes, 1 Jar of Candied Lemmon,
- 1 Piece of Hogs Lard, 1 piece of Jar of pickled anchovies,
- About 1/3 of Firkin of Butter, 2 Neat's Tongues, 1 Cake of Tallow,
- Part of a Carboy of Vinaigre, 6 Ropes of Onions, A parcel of broken Staffe Ware.
- 1 large Wooden Tray, 5 empty logs.
Smoke House
- a Barrel & 2 Tubs of soft soap
- 133 pieces of Bacon, 4 large powdering tubs
In the Cole house is about 1000 Bushels of Sea Coal by conjecture
In the Salt house is 6 whole Sacks of Salt & a piece. 9 pieces of tubs pots & Kitchen stuff. An empty fish Barrel.
Charcoal house about 40 bushls to appearance & 1 Wooden bushel mease. and some Lumber.
202.
Scullery
- 2 Washg tubs. 6 water pails.
- 3 Iron pots. 1 pr. Iron Dogs.
- 1 pr. of Iron spit racks
- 6 Spits. 1 coffee & 1 chestnut roaster, 1 Iron Frying pan,
- 1 old tin candle box. 1 chopg board.
- 1 Stand for candle moulds
- 2 Wooden Trays. 1 small stone jug
- 1 Old sieve. 1 Iron Oven peel
- 1 Old wooden Chair. 1 old pickg pot
- 1 Old jelly stand. 1 old plate rack. 1 Ax.
203.
Kitchen
- 1 Large meat Jack & appurtanences.
- 1 Dutch Oven. 1 Salamander. 1 pr. Bellows
- 1 Skimer & 1 flesh fork. 2 gridirons
- 2 Iron Trivets. 1 poker & tongs.
- 1 large boilg coppr, 1 Box iron & A heater.
- 1 old wooden chair, 1 large fire screen,
- 1 Blue Salt box. 1 marble mortar.
- 5 Stone jarrs empty, 1 large Glass Lanthorn
- 1 Half bushel hand basket.
- 2 Iron meat cleavers. 21 Pewter Dishes, & 15 plates. 1 Pewter fish Strainer
- 12 white stone scollops. 5 Tea Canisters.
- 2 round coffee canisters. 1 parcel of Hartshorn Shavgs & 1 do. Icing glass.
- 1 small & 1 large Sieve. 1 Can of 18 lardg Needles. 16 pewter ice moulds
- 16 Earthen sweet meat pots.
- 2 pair steak tongs.
- 3 Wooden rollg pins 1 knife & fork.
- 1 Coffee mill fix'd. 4 doz copr moulds.
- 3 pewter Ice moulds. 9 doz & 9 Tin moulds of different forms. 2 paste brushes. 5 paste markers. 2 small iron stands
- 1 old 8 day clock. 26 pewter candlemoulds
- 8 old hair Sieves, 1 pr. of 2 lb. coppr - scales & weights. 1 old pewter dish.
- 1 small flower keg. 1 hand Dinner Bell, 1 stone jarr candied orange peal.
- 1 small Gauze sieve.
- 2 tin cullenders.
- 21 Copr Stew pans & 24 Covers.
- 4 do. Soup pots & covers, 1 do. alamode pot & cover
- 1 do. preserg pot & do.
- 1 do. small fish kettle & cover
- 5 do. sauce pans & ___ do.
- 1 do. dippg pan.
- 1 do. fish strainer
- 1 Bell mettle pestle & morter
- 2 chopg knives
- 2 round copr paste pans & 2 oval tin do.
- 4 Iron bird Spits
- 3 do. Soup ladles 1 Iron bastg Ladle
- 1 Tin ventilater 1 do. soup horse
- 1 do. skimmer 3 Funnels.
- 4 large tin graters 4 tin Naples bisket pans. 1 large tin flat candlestick.
- 21 tin meat covers. 2 large pewter water dishes
- 3 copr chafing dishes
Glass
- 21 Glass Salvers
- 1 cut glass pirimid & frame compleat
- 1 plain do. with 14 pails
- 5 flat plates. 3 lookg glass frames
- 4 Scollop plates
- 21 glass flower stands 4 green do.
- 2 round cut glass cream basons covers & dishes
- 2 ------------ do. oval ----- do. & 2 ----- do.
- 4 Scollop plates
- 3 do. sweet meat glasses for a change
- 67 Orgeat glasses
- 46 plan flint jelly & Silibub glasses
- 5 buttr dishes & covers
- 50 cut jelly & Silibub glasses
- 39 plain square jelly do.
- 87 Jelly & Silibub do. of different sorts
- 16 Tart pans glass 8 flat sweet meat pans
- 3 common sweet meat midg glass
- 41 pieces of common desrt glasses
- 39 do. of best cut do. do.
- a small quantity of Izing glass.
Linnen
- 26 Pillow cases
- 2 pr. very large fine Sheets
- 17 pr. lesser fine do.
- 18 ½ pr. Servants do.
- 4 Damask long Dinner Table cloths
- 6 Doz. Napkins to do.
- 4 long Diaper table cloths
- 4 Middle cloths to do.
- 5 doz. Napkins to do.
- 2 long Damask table cloths
- 4 doz. Napkins to do.
- 1 large Damask table cloth
- 1 Middle cloth to do.
- 1 doz. Napkins to do.
- 6 Fine damask table cloths
- 6 doz. Napkins to do.
- 2 damask table cloths
- 2 doz. Napkins to do.
- 30 Dinner table cloths & 5 doz old Napkins
- 36 Breakfast cloths
- 12 Servants table cloths
- 2 ½ doz fine diaper tea Napkins
- 35 Damask do.
- 3 doz. fine diaper Towels
- 27 Huckaback do.
- 65 Brown Rubbers
- 5 Round Towels
- 2 Coarse dresser cloths
Cook's Bed Chamber
- Field bedst. 2 Matrasses, 3 blankets, 1 Quilt 1 Bolster & pillow Red check Curtains.
- 1 Round mahogy table with leaves.
- 1 do. do. Tea do.
- 1 Green easy chair with green coverg & cushion
- 1 Arm Chair-leather bottoms.
- 6 mahogy chairs Hair bottoms
- 1 Walnut Desk
- 3 pr. red check'd window curtains.
- 2 pokers, 1 Fender, Tongs, Shovel & hearth brush
- 1 dust pan hangg trivet
- 1 Coppr. Tea kettle
- 15 Prints. 2 Teapots 3 Cups & Saucers
- 1 Sugr. Dish & 2 bottles of Staffordshire ware.
- 2 black jappan'd Canns
- 7 Canisters. 1 Sieve 1 Basket
- 6 Artificial flowers
- 1 glass tumbler
Servant's Hall
- 67 Staffords round Dishes
- 64 do. oval do.
- 23 do. puddg do. 1 Sallad Dish
- 10 Soup plates
- 11 Shallow do.
- 6 large & 4 small breakfast plates
- 6 round & 6 oval fish strainers
- 4 Turins & covers. 5 Sauce boats
- 4 Egg Cups
Celler
- 14 Gross of empty bottles
[Handwritten note in margin - Enclosed with the illegible to Wm. Nelson, etc. from illegible - January 2, 1771.
(See following pages 216-217). M.G.]
January 2, 1771
Things to be sent to England
- Gold Watch and Walking Cane
- Three seal skin Cases of surveyors Instruments one Shagreen Case contg Eight chas'd Silver Tea Spoons and one pair of Tongs, one Pair of Paste buckles one red Leather Case a pair of Stone Shoe and Knee Buckles, two Morrocco Asses Skin Pocket Books of Memorandums, one Diamond Stock buckle one Pair of Stone Shoe & Knee Buckles one Diamond Hatt Buckle, two Gold Seals, one Steel Seal, one Pair of Gold Buttons, two setts of New steel shoe & Knee Buckles, one Pair of cutt steel shoe & Knee Buckles, one Handsome Tooth Pick Case.
In My Lords Bedchamber
- The Public & Private Papers and other Things contain'd in the Library Table and Mahogany Desk, to be put in the Most convenient of the Two & be sent carefully to England the thirteen Wax Portraits, The East India Firelock.
In Dining Room
- The Pistols with furniture & five small Swords.
In Chamber over Dining Room
- Two Snuft Boxes one Small Ivory Box
In Middle Room
- One Piece of Fine Damask
- Napkining
- All the Maps and all the Books
- All the Plate in General. & Knives
- Forks and Spoons-
- All the China
- All the Table & House Linen
- Three Pipes of Madeira to be fill'd & Well cas'd
- None of the Staffordshire Ware to Come.
In Store Room
A Catalogue of Ye Books In The Library.
no. of Volumes.
- 3 Clarendon's History of the Rebellion
- 2 Postlethwayt's Dictionary
- 2 Johnson's Dictionary
- 7 Statutes at Large
- 2 Anderson on Commerce
- 3 Plinius Marduini
- 2 Miller's Gardener's Dictionary
- 1 Virginia Laws
- 1 Laws of Virginia
- 2 Ralegs History of the World
- 1 Virginia Laws
- 1 Pamphlet Military Devotion
- 1 Byron's Narrative-
- 1 Ode to Shakespear
- 1 Journal of H. Burgesses
- 1 Seat of the late War
- 1 Map North America
- 1 Kerkead
- 1 Ignorant Philospher
- A parcel of Pamphlets & old Magazines
- 1 Atlas - 3 Books of Paints & Drawings in paste board
- 1 red Letter Case
1
- 1 Conquest of Mexico
- 1 Jacobs Law Dictionary
- 4 Baion's Works
- 3 Lockes Works
- Acts of George the second beginning in the 15 yr. of His Reign, ending the 30th.
- 1 Coopers Dictionary
- 2 Traps Virgil
- 1 Ansons Voyage
- 1 Journal of the House of Burgesses
- 3 Minutes of the Lord from Jany. 1765 to May 1768.
- 1 Universal Dictionary of the marine
- 1 Map of Virginia
2
- 6 Hammers Shakespeare
- 1 Carter's Epictatus
- 6 Popes Illiad
- 5 Popes Odyssey. 2 Vols. Goldsmith's Roman History-
- 4 Smollets His. of England
- 9 Ciceronis Opera Oliveti
- 3 Robert's His: of Charles the 5th. 1st. Vol. missing
- 3 Blackstones Commentaries… 2nd. do. 1st & 3d do. lent out & not returnd
- 2 L'Esprit des Loix-
- 6 Humes His: of England. all missing
- 1 Observations on the Statutes
- 1 Plays
- 1 Prussian Exercise
3
- 1 Hainsworths Dictionary
- 1 Dictionare de Boyer
- 1 Caesar Auden dorpii
- 1 Boyers Dictionary
- 1 Littletons., Do...
- 26 Statutes at Large 24th. do.
- 20 Universal History
- 1 Bible & 1 Prayer Book
- 1 Diseases of the Army
- 1 Stat. Will. & M. Coll.
- 1 Virga Laws, abridg'd
- 1 Johnson's Dictionary- do
- 2 Knox's historical Journal
4
- 1 Stiths His: of Virginia
- 1 Essays on Husbandry
- 1 Cordens His of Canada
- 1 Postlethayt's System
- 1 Pounal on the Colonies
- 4 Sherlocks Sermons
- 8 Oeuvres de Voltaire
- 2 Leland's Demosthenes
- 9 Popes Works
- 1 Camp Discipline
- 4 Smollet's Continuation
- 4 Atterbury's Sermons
- 2 Douglass's North America
- 2 European Settlements
- 1 Military Essay
- 1 Bailey's Dictionary
- 1 Meiger Do.
- 1 Boyers Do. Abridged
- 6 Tom Jones
- 9 Letter's de Maintenon
- 6 L' Ami de Hommes
- Sherlock's 3rd. Volume (at his Lordship's)
- 1 Discourse of Trade
5
- 16 Treatise on Ventilators
- 1 Telemaque
- 3 L' Esprit de la Lique
- 6 Memoirs de Maintenon
- 1 Belisaire
- 2 Adventures of Jos. Andrews - 1 missing- only one
- 1 Spinkes Devotion
- 8 Swift's Works
- 2 His: of the 5 Indian Nations
- 10 Select Plays - T & 1 T.C.G.
- 9 Do. --------C - 2d. Mr. Stark
- 8 Oeuvres de Moliere
- 4 Fool of Quality
- 2 Antoninus's Meditations
- 1 Milton's Paradise lost
- Court & City Register for 1768.
- do. -------------------- 1769 & 1770.
- Virginia Almanack - do.
- Flora Virginica
6
- 3 Books of Journals- sent to Mr. Wythe Attorney
- 1 Flora Virginica - said to come from Mr. Clayton.
- 3d. Vol Rapins History
- 3 Vol's. Sherlock's Sermons, said to be in the house when my Lord Came -
- 1 Book of engross'd Letters - retd to the office
Books doubtful to whom they Belong *
Standing Furniture at the Palace
- 34 Scripture Prints
- 2 Shades in Frames
- 2 Brass Branches
- 7 Mahogony chairs
- 1 Iron Grate
- Fry & Jefferson's Map in the Closet.
in the Front Parlour
- Arms & Colours. 2 looking
- Glasses - 6 fine leather Buckets
- 1 step Ladder - 1 step Ladder
In the Hall & Passage
- 1 pr. brass Sconces
- 1 Side Board wth Marble Slab
In the dining Room
- 19 Leather Bottom Mahogony chairs
- 8 long stools
- 8 stocker Brackets
- 6 brass Branches
In the Ball Room
- 2 long walnut dining Tables
- 16 Walnut Leather bottom chairs
- 2 Glass Lustre wth 12 Branches
Supper room
- 2 large deal Benches
In the Porch
- 2 Dressers
In the Powder Room
- Chimney & 2 brass Sconces-
- a Dresser & Monumental
- Piece to Thos. Fairfax
- an old glass Lanthorn
- 1 pr. Steps.
In the little middle Room
- 1 Gilt looking Glass
- 3 paintings over the Door
- Map of new England
- 4 Leather Bottom Mahogony Chairs
- 1 pr. old Money Scales
In the Pantry
- 3 large Roman Catholick Pictures
- 1 glass Lanthorn
- 1 large looking Glass- 1 pr. steps in the Passage closet-
In the Passage up Stairs
- 1 looking Glass
- 1 check Curtain & Rod
- 1 writing Table
Study
- 2 looking Glass with black Frames & 2 glass Sconces
- 2 outer Window screens
- 10 Prints in Frames in the Closet
- one looking Glass wth painted Frame
Chamber over the Dining Room
- 1 looking Glass. 14 Prints
Chamber over the front Parlour
- 2 long looking Glasses with red gilded frames
- 1 large Glass on the Side of the Room with carved gilt frame
- Glass Lustre with six Branches
Middle Room
- One Chimney looking Glass
- a Shade
- a Stand of Shelves
In his Lordship's Chamber
- 1 long Box with a Parcel of broken Sconces-
in the 2d Store Room
- 6 spring Blinds - 4 Billiard Tacks
- parts of a Bedstead 1 brass sconce
- a parcel of old Iron
3d
- 4 very old black Leather chairs
in Passage up Stairs
- 1 looking Glass with Gilt Frame
- Stand of Shelves -
Room over his Ldship's Bed Chamber
- wooden Horses - 1 Rope
Cellar
- 12 Leaden & six stone flower Potts
- 1 Rolling Stone - Tubbs & orange Tree & Roller for the Tubbs
Garden
- 1 Handmill
Outhouse
- 1 Step Ladder & old chair
- 3 Horses - 2 large Shelves -
in the Wine Store
Botetourt Papers
Virginia State Library, Archives.
Ibid.1770.
Lord Botetourt To George Wythe. is Dr. To 200 bushels of coal at 10d. 8. 6. 8 To freight of ditto 3d. 2.10. 0 £10.16. 8 I acknowlege the coal above mentiond to have been received
W. Marshman.
Accot
Mr. Wythe
£10.16. 8
213.[1770, Nov. 13]
Sir
please to pay to Mr. Saunders the Sum of Sixty Pounds Current Money, being the Balance of Lord Botetourt's Subscription to the Building of a Workhouse, the whole of which was one Hundred Pounds & part, viz. forty Pounds receiv'd from his Lordship by myself was formerly paid to Mr. Saunders-
Your most Obedient
& very hble. Servt
J. HorrocksNovr. 13. 1770
To
Robt. Carter Nicholas Esqre.
Treasurer-Mr. Commissary's Note to pay Jno. Saunders for Bal. of his Ld. Ship's, subscription for the Work House £ 60.-
Nelson, William of York
Letter Book- 1766, 1775. p. 183
To Sam'l Athawes, Merchant, London
Dec.96, 1770.…You have heard . . of the death of our excellent governour Botetourt. I have bought Lord Botetourt's fine set of Horses with the sole view of offering them to his successor at the same price… I have also kept in my service the coachman… the Gardener is also continued, that the Garden: Park etc. may be in good order for the next Governor.
[handwritten notes - illegible]
Brock, R. A.
Mss. Note Book
Pages 56 to 60.
[Acc'ts, Estate of Lord Botetourt]
1769/70
| Oct. 17 | 17 Books Silver Leaf for J. Kidd | 1: 1: 3 |
| Oct. 20 | To taking down Bedstead & Cleaning Do. & mending a form | 0:15: 0 |
| To putting up Do. after funeral | 0:10: 0 |
| Oct. 17 | To 16 books Silver Leaf at 2/6 | 2: 0: 0 |
| " 1 doz. books Dutch metal @ 15/ | 0:15: 0 |
[handwritten notes in margin - illegible]
Brock, R. A.
Mss. Note Book
pp. 56 to 60.
216.The Estate of Lord Botetourt, Deceased in Acct wth J. Kidd.
1769/70.215.
Botetourt Papers
Virginia State Library, Archives.
Also: Tyler's Magazine
Vol. 3, page 120-122.
218.[1771, Jan. 2d.]
To the Honble. William Nelson Esqr
John Randolph, Robert Carter Nicholas, George Wythe, and John Blair Junr Esquires.Gentlemen
I did not till last night receive your Letter of October 30th, being the Duplicate, with the very meloncholy Account of Lord Botetourt's Death or I should have sooner acknowledg'd it.
I must beg leave, Gentlemen, thro' You to make my best Complimts. to the Council, and to return them many thanks for the great care that they have taken of Lord Botetourts Affairs in Virginia by appointing such Gentlemen as you are, to be a the trouble of managing them, And at the same time I cannot be unmindfull how much I and all Lord Botetourt's Friends and Relations are in Debted to You, for the Great Regard, Respect, and Esteem, You have shewn to my late Dear Friend by directing so very handsome a funeral and conducting it with so much Order and Decency; and I shall be most ready to pay any Expence that may be incurred thereby.
I understand by a Letter from Marshman to Ld. Botetourt's agent Mr. Conway that his Lordship expressed a desire sometime before he died to be bury'd in Virginia, so that I do not intend removing the Body to England, but hope the President &c. of the College will permit me to erect a Monument near the place where he was buried, as the only means I have to shew the sincere affection and regard I bore him when alive, and to express in some degree my sorrow and affliction for his Death. At the same time I flatter myself it will not be disagreeable to the Virginians to have this remembrance of a person whom they held in such high estimation and whose loss they so greatly lament.
As I wish as nearly as possible to fullfill Lord Botetourt's intentions, and as I know it was one of them to present at his departure the Picture's of the King and Queen and the State Coach with the furniture there to belonging, to the Colony for the use of the succeeding Governors, I must trouble You therefore, Gentlemen, to desire the Council on 217. behalf of the Colony to accept them, and to receive them of me as a small return for the many distinguishd marks of honor and esteem they shew'd my Dear Friend when alive, the Care and Attention they bestow'd on him when ill, and the Respect, and, affectionate Regard they paid to his Memory, in his funeral.
For my own part Gentlemen my most sincere thanks are due to You for the great assiduity and readiness with which You undertook these affairs and for the trouble you have been at on my Acct. by securing the Effects which by the Generous Donation of the kind Testater devolve to me: It gives me great satisfaction to hear that Marshman and all Lord Botetourt's servants behaved themselves so well to their late Master, and I approve intirely of your Direction to Marshman to stay there till all the Effects are disposed of, and that there may be as much trouble as possible taken off your hands, I have by this same opportunity directed Blandford, of whose honesty and fidelity I have the highest opinion, he remain in Virginia and Jointly to take your Direction and to execute your Commands.
I shall inclosed a list of those things that I would have sent to England, the rest of the things I desire may be disposed of to the best advantage either by public or private sale. See pp. 205-208
I must desire You to be very carefull of all his public and Private Papers and accounts, and to give Directions that they and all his small Things of Value should be put into the Mahogany Desk or Library Table or any other Package you shall Judge most proper and sent to England with the rest of the things in the List, by the first opportunity of a Ship to Bristol
I desire that all Lord Botetourt's wearing apparell and body Linnen may be given to Marshman.
It is unnecessary for me to add that I wish to have the State of his Lordship's Acct. transmitted to me as soon as possible.
I am
Gentlemen
Your most Obidient
most Oblig'd humble Sert.
Beaufort.Badminton
Jan. 2d. 1771.
Botetourt Papers
Virginia State Library, Archives.
[1771, Jan 2d.]
Wearing Apparel
In Chamber over Dining Room
- 1 Blue Cloth Frock wth white Lining
- 2 Blue Frocks, & 2 Waistcoats
- 2 pr. Leather Breeches, 5 pr. Black Silk Do.
- 3 pr. Black Velvet Do. 1 pr. of white Cloth Do.
- 1 pr. White Velvet Do. 1 White Satin Under Waistcoat
- 1 Crimson Silk Under Waistcoat
- 1 White watered silk Embroidered Waistcoat
- Thickset Frock, 1 Brown Doyley Do.
- 1 Fustian Frock & Waistcoat, 3 White Silk Waistcoats
- 1 Old Brown, & 1 Old Blue Great Coat
- 2 White Cloth Waistcoats, 1 Old Scarlet Do. Gold Lace
- 1 Blue Silk Do. 2 Blue Great coats, 1 Scarlet Cloak
- 4 Green Bays Wrappers -
In the Middle Room
- Compleat suit of pale Crimson Cut Velvet
- 1 Do. wth Gold Buttons, deep coloured Do.
- 1 Do. of White Cloth, and White Silk Waistcoat, laced with Silver.
- 1 Do. Gold, Tissue, 1 Do. of a Larger pattern
- 5 Black and 1 White Hats
- 1 Suit of Mourning with Weepers
- 1 Mourning Frock and Waistcoat
- 1 Raven Grey Do. - and Do.
- 2 Full Suits of Black Cloth
- 1 Full trimmed Suit of Crimson Cloth
- 1 Do. of Scar