Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Library Research Report Series - 1225
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Library
Williamsburg, Virginia
1990
The house known as the "James Anderson House" is located on the south side of Duke of Gloucester Street in Williamsburg about midway between the Capitol and the College of William and Mary.
The first known data as to the ownership of Lot 18 is recorded in 1723 when Thomas Ravenscroft and Elizabeth, his wife, of James City County conveyed Lots 17 and 18 to Cole Digges. Evidently, Dudley Digges, a son, inherited the property and conveyed same to William Withers sometime after 1755 and prior to November, 1760. In 1760 Withers conveyed to William Holt, merchant, who held the property until 1770 when he conveyed to James Anderson, armourer. During the period it appears that Catherine Rathell, milliner, may have had a shop on this lot at the same time that Freer Armston, chandler, conducted a business on another part of the lot. Anderson mortgaged to Holt but soon became full owner. It is now known when Anderson moved into the property. not? He seems to have rented to William Drinkard for a tavern. Mrs. Christiana Campbell apparently was on Lot 18 as a tavern keeper from 1760-1769(?). Anderson had several blacksmith forges on the property. Humphrey Harwood either built or repaired these several times for Anderson. Anderson was living thereon as a blacksmith from 1776-1780 and as Public Armourer for Virginia. He removed to Richmond when the Capital was moved there but returned to Williamsburg in 1782. He lived at his property until 1798 when his death occurred. Land Tax accounts from 1782 to 1806 indicate that Anderson or his estate was owner of three lots in Williamsburg. In 1809 the same source shows that Robert Anderson, son of James Anderson, had come into legal possession of the three lots "via J. Anderson Est." There is proof that Anderson and his sister, Nancy Camp, widow of George Camp, held something like a joint ownership of the property. In 1820 the Williamsburg Land Tax accounts charge "Camp, Mary [sic] (Richmond)" with one lot held by "life estate." The buildings were valued at $1300 and lot and buildings at $1400. From 1820 to 1840 Nancy Camp held the property with valuations practically the same as in 1820. In 1840 Robert Anderson was charged with one lot on which the buildings were appraised at $1400, lot and buildings at $1500 "via Nancy Camp." Anderson continued as owner until 1842 when all buildings were destroyed by fire. The lot continued in the name of Anderson until 1861 which was the last available date of Land Tax accounts until after the Civil War. Insurance records of the Mutual Assurance Society to Nancy Camp in 1810 note her dwelling to be 44 by 20 feet, "now unoccupied situated between the lot of Mary Stith on the West and of Leroy Anderson on the east..." The dwelling with outbuildings were valued at $2500. There were three other policies for this property: 1823, 1830 and 1839. Robert Anderson's will filed in 1871 indicated that he was owner of the property. In 1880 George W. Potts had bought the property at the Anderson sale. In 1884 Potts conveyed to James L. Slater. In 1888 Slater deeded to R. A. Wise, trustee, for the Burke heirs. In 1903 the Burke family conveyed to Margarethe Larson. In 1909 Larson gave deed to C. H. Lee. In 1915 Orpha J. Lee, widow, conveyed to A. W. Hitchens. In 1932 Hitchens conveyed the property to Williamsburg Holding Corporations. Further details of ownership can be seen in the body of the report or in the Accounting Department, Colonial Williamsburg, Incorporated.
The Frenchman's Map (1782) indicates several houses on what appears to be Lot 18. A long house faces on Main Street. To the rear are two rectangular houses on the western part of the lot with three smaller houses contiguous.
The College Map (1791?) shows "Anderson" on Lot 18 and "Byrd" on Lot 19.
The Bucktrout Map (1803) added to by Lively (1867) indicates "Sands" on what would be Lot 18 if numbered, and "Leroy Anderson" to the east on Lot 19 if numbered.
Tyler's Map, an adaptation of the College Map, has the same identification as the Bucktrout Map.
The house known as the "James Anderson House" is located on the south side of Duke of Gloucester Street about midway from the College of William and Mary to the Capitol. On some Williamsburg maps the lot is designated "18" and is marked "Anderson." See: Tyler's adaptation of the College Map on opposite page.
The first definite information as to the ownership of Lot 18 is noted in 1723 when Thomas Ravenscroft1 conveyed two lots to Cole Digges.2
[November 16, 1723]
[Thomas Ravenscroft, James City County,
Elizabeth, his wife,
to
Cole Digges, York County,
Consideration: 200 pounds Current Money of Virginia]THIS INDENTURE made the Sixteenth day of November in the tenth year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord George...Anno Dom: One thousand Seven hundred & twenty three BETWEEN Thomas Ravenscroft of the County of James City Gent & Elizabeth his Wife of the one part and Cole Diggs of the County of York Esqr of the other part WITNESSETH that the said Thomas Ravenscroft & Elizabeth his Wife for and in Consideration of ye sum of Two hundred pounds Current money of Virginia to them in hand paid by the said Cole Diggs at and before the Ensealing and delivery of these presents...HAVE given granted bargained Sold aliened enfeoffed released & Confirmed...ALL them their two lots or two half Acres of Land in the City of Wmsburgh scituate lying & being in or upon the South Side of 2 Duke of Gloster Street in the said City designed in ye Plot or draught thereof by ye Numbers or figures 17 & 18 together with all the houses outhouses Edifices gardens orchards Woods wells waters & water Courses and all other improvements advantages privileges and appurtenances thereunto belonging...TO HAVE & TO HOLD...forever...IN WITNESS whereof they the said Thomas Ravenscroft and Elizabeth his Wife have hereunto set their hands & Seals the day & year above written
Thos Ravenscroft (Seal)
Eliza Ravenscroft (Seal)…
At a Court held for York County Decr 16th 1723 Thomas Ravenscroft & Elizabeth his Wife in open Court presented & acknowledged this their deed of Release of lands lying in Wmsburgh in this County to Cole Diggs Esqr... Test. Phi Lightfoot Cl Cur1
The lot numbers "17 & 18" in the above deed, probably were an error of the county clerk in copying. At this date, Lots 16 & 17 were owned by John James Flournoy, a watchmaker.2 A later deed (1761) indicates that Lots 18 & 19 (not described by numbers but by boundaries), had once been owned by Dudley Digges.3
Just how long Ravenscroft had been the owner, is not known from the records. However, there was a house or houses thereon of some consequence. By comparison the house on lot 47 was valued at £115 (in 1728/29); the Robertson house & lots 26 & 27 were valued at £200; and the Brush house was valued at £80 in 1727.
Little is known as to what use Cole Digges put his purchase. As he was a member of the Council from 1719-1744, it is probable that he resided in Williamsburg a part of each year. In August, 1739 in the Virginia Gazette under the caption, "Williamsburg," it was reported: "Yesterday Major 3Benjamin Harrison son of the Honourable Nathaniel Harrison Esq;...was married to Miss Susanna Digges, Daughter of the Honourable Cole Digges, Esq; one of his Majesty's Council of this Colony..."1
It appears from a later deed that Cole Digges, apparently, conveyed the lots to his son, Dudley Digges, and in 1755 Digges gave lease to part of the lot on which a shop stood to James Currie,2 Barber and Perukemaker:
4[July 21, 1755]
[Dudley Digges of Yorktown
...WHEREAS the said Dudley Digges did license and Permit one Doctr Kenneth McKenzie decd to set a Tenement or Shop on his Lotts in the City of Williamsburgh with liberty to remove the same at any time which Shop the said James Currie hath purchased AND WHEREAS the sd Dudley Digges and James Currie have come to the following Agreement that...Dudley Digges will grant a Lease of the Ground whereon the said Shop stands with an Addition of ten feet more for the whole length thereof for the Conveniency of Building a Shed to hold to the said James Currie and his Assigns for the term of fourteen Years at the Annual Rent of Two Pounds twelve Shillings [with the privilege of renewal for fourteen years at the expiration of the first lease] He the said Dudley Digges Hath Demised Granted and Letten...unto the said James Currie All the Ground whereon the said Shop now stands together with ten feet more extending back into the said Lotts the whole length of the said Shop Scituate lying & being on the South side the Main Street [blot] at Williamsburgh To have and to hold [blot]...[for fourteen years with privilege of renewing for fourteen years] IN WITNESS whereof the said Dudley Digges and James Currie have hereunto set their Hands and Seals the Day and Year first above written.
to
James Currie, Williamsburg, barber and perukemaker,
Consideration: £2.12.- with 5 shillings to confirm the lease]
Dudley Digges Junr (L.S.)
Jas Currie (L.S.)3 [Recorded York County Court
July 21, 1755]
Although no lot number is given in the above lease, it may refer to a portion of Lot 18 as archaeological information (report of August, 1939) indicates that a shop, apparently, was located on the eastern part of Lot 18.
After 1755 and prior to November, 1760 William Withers,1 secretary to Governor Dinwiddie, had acquired Lots 18 and 19 via Dudley Digges. Basis for this statement is found in a deed from Withers to William Holt; and a deed from Withers to William Carter:
[November 18, 1760]
[William Withers, merchant,
to
William Holt, merchant,
Consideration: 350 Pounds Current Money of Virginia]…Lot or half Acre of Land Situate lying and being on the main Street in the said City on the South Side thereof now in the Tenure and Occupation of Christianna Campbell2 denoted in the Plan of the city by the Figures [sic] 18 and also part of the Lott next adjoining the East Side thereof to wit 5 feet and an half in Breadth extending Eastwardly into the said adjoining Lot on the said Street and from the Street a strait Line to be run through the said Lott to the End thereof on the back Street Paralel to the East Side of the said Lott first above mentioned And all Buildings Gardens Ways…
[Recorded York County Court, January 19, 1761]
William Withers (L.S.)3
[March 16, 1761]
[William Withers, Merchant, Williamsburg,
to
William Carter, apothecary, Williamsburg,
Consideration: 375£ Current Money]…All that Peice or parcel of Ground Situate lying and being on the South Side of Duke of Gloucester Street in the said City and 5 bounded as followeth on the North by Duke of Gloucester Street on the East by a cross Street running from Duke of Gloucester Street to Francis Street on the South by Francis Street and on the West by the Ground Sold by the said William Withers to William Holt merchant and is the remaining part of those two Lotts or half Acres of Ground purchased by the said William Withers of Dudley Digges of the Town of York Gent…And all houses…
[Recorded York County Court, March 16, 1761]
Wm Withers (L.S.)1
Mrs. Campbell, noted in the above deed of November, 1760, kept a tavern in Williamsburg for many years. Apparently, Mrs. Campbell did not own property in the city until ca. 1771 or more probably later.2 During the period of her occupancy of Lot 18 George Washington dined with her frequently on his visits to the city. A few instances are listed below:
[1762] | November 29, Monday. Williamsburg. |
Tavern Expens. Williamsburg Mrs. Campbell £8.17.6... | |
[1763] | November 3, Thursday. Williamsburg. |
...account with Mrs. Campbell....£4.4.0. | |
[1767] | November 6, Friday. Williamsburg. |
By Mrs. Campbells Acct. for my Board & ca. £3.10.0.... | |
[1768] | November 5, Saturday. Williamsburg. |
Dined at Mrs. Campbell's, where I had spent all my Evenings since I came to Town. | |
[1769] | May 4, Thursday. Williamsburg. |
Dined with the Speaker and spent the Evening (that is suppd) at Mrs. Campbell's. | |
[1770] | May 22, Tuesday. Williamsburg. |
Reached Williamsburg to Breakfast and dined at the Club at Mrs. Campb[el]l; and supped at the Raleigh. | |
[1770] | June 9, Saturday. Williamsburg and New Kent. |
Had a cold Cut at Mrs. Campbell's and went up to Eltham in the afternoon.3 |
There is a notice in the Virginia Gazette of April 27, 1769 to 6 indicate that Catherine Rathell,1 milliner, possibly had a shop on this lot at the same time that Freer Armston,2 a chandler or soap boiler, conducted a business on another section of the lot. Armston's advertisement follows:
April 27, 1769
FREER ARMSTON, Chandler and Soap Boiler, in Norfolk, FOR the better convenience of supplying the town of Williamsburg, has opened a shop between Mr. Carter's great brick house3 and Mrs. Rathell's, where may be had TALLOW CANDLES as good as any on the continent; the present price by the box 11d. paying freight from Norfolk. Best HARD SOAP at 6d. by the box, or 7d. halfpeny small quantities…4
If Mrs. Rathell was in the larger house, previously used by Christiana Campbell, then Armston's shop was between Carter's brick house and Mrs. Rathell.
In October, 1770 William Holt conveyed the property to James Anderson,5 a blacksmith: 7
[October 20, 1770]
[William Holt of Williamsburg
Mary, his wife,
to
James Anderson, Williamsburg
Consideration: 600 pounds Current Money of Virginia]…HATH granted…All that lot of half acre of ground situate lying and being on the Main street in the said City on the South side thereof now in the Occupation of the said William Holt denoted in the plan of the City by the Figures [sic] 18 and also part of the Lott next adjoining the East side thereof to wit Five Foot and an half in Breadth extending Eastwardly into the said adjoining Lott on the said Street and from the Street a strait Line to be run thro the said Lott to the End thereof on the back Street parrallel to the East side of the said Lot first above mentioned…And all buildings…
William Holt (L.S.)
Mary Holt (L.S.)…
RECEIVED this twentieth day of October 1770. of the within Named James Anderson the sum of Six hundred pounds Current Money being the Consideration within Mentioned to be received by me--
Wm Holt.1Witness
[Recorded June 17, 1771, York County Court.]
Matthw Anderson
Ellyson Armistead
Thomas Pate
In the foregoing conveyance one sees that the consideration for the property has increased from 350 pounds when Holt bought the property to 600 pounds when he sold it. In the ten years that Holt held the property the value advanced nearly one hundred per cent. Also, in the above deed the lot is designated as "18, on the south side of the Main street." And, a narrow strip of land 5½ feet was cut from Lot 19 and included in the conveyance. See: drawing below:
8On the twenty second of October, 1770 Anderson and Hannah, his wife, gave a mortgage upon the property acquired via Holt on October 20th:
[October 22, 1770]
[James Anderson of Williamsburg
[Anderson conveyed the same ground as conveyed in deed of October 20, 1770, from Holt to him being lot 18 and] also part of the lot next adjoining the East side thereof to wit: five feet and a half in breadth extending eastwardly into the said adjoining lot to the end thereof on the back street parallel to the East side of the said lot first above mentioned...to be held on condition that James Anderson, his heirs or Executors shall pay unto William Holt the full sum of six hundred pounds on or before IN SIX EQUAL PAYMENTS OF the fifteenth day of May 1772 and one hundred pounds annually for five succeeding years making the last payment to be on the fifteenth day of May 1777...that in default of such payments it shall and may be lawfull for the said William Holt his heirs and assigns to enter upon the said Lott and peice or part of a Lott...to hold and enjoy as his own and proper Estate and it is agreed between the parties that untill Default be made in payment of the said Money it shall be Lawfull for the said James Anderson to remain in the quiet possession of the said premises and to take the Rents and profits thereof to himself for his own use...1 [Recorded June 17, 1771, York County Court]
Hannah, his wife,
to
William Holt of the same city
Consideration: 600 pounds current money of Virginia]
Anderson, evidently, rented the property to William Drinkard for a tavern:
WILLIAMSBURG, February 26, 1771.
WILLIAM R. DRINKARD begs Leave to inform the Publick that he intends to open TAVERN in the House lately occupied by Mr. William Holt, nearly opposite the Post Office,2 by the ensuing April Court. Those Gentlemen who please to favour him with their Custom may depend on good Accomodation.3
It is not known exactly when Anderson moved into his property on 9 Lot 18. In 1767 Anderson purchased the southern part of Lot 19, site of the present Barraud House. In 1776 he was appointed Public Armourer for Virginia.1 Prior to this time, he was plying the trade of a blacksmith and acting as armourer in Williamsburg.2 Anderson maintained shops and forges at his Williamsburg property.3 Archaeological research has established forges on Lot 18 along the western boundary toward the south. Whether he had other forges and shops in Williamsburg when he was Public Armourer or whether the southern part of Lot 18 and a part of Lot 19 were sufficient for the shops, we do not know. In December, 1777 the Governor and Council agreed to allow James Anderson, blacksmith, thirty two pounds per month for nine hands, and twenty shillings per day, Sundays excluded, for himself; and ninety pounds per year for his shop and tools for six months to commence from September 21st, last. He was to be allowed rations for himself and workmen, a load of wood a week. He accepted these terms.4 (See: Illustration #4, appendix, for Anderson's life as a Public Armourer taken from the Public Store Records, Williamsburg.)
10On March 20, 1776 "Articles of agreement between James Anderson, blacksmith, and the Committee on behalf of the public were signed..."1 Such contract indicated that Anderson would act as public armourer for the Commonwealth. He held this office until his resignation in July, 1782.2 In July, 1776 "[Warrant] to James Anderson for £142.16.0 for a quarter's wages of himself, workmen, and use of shop, per agreement."3
Another warrant was ordered on October 3, 1776: "Ordered That a Warrant issue to Mr. James Anderson for One hundred & forty six pounds five shillings for the hire of his Shop & Hands &c a Quarter of a year to the 20 Ult., Also the farther Sum of twenty two pounds two shillings & six pence, for Balance of his Account of work &c. previous to the Commencement of his Contract with the Committee of Safety."4
In January, 1777 it was "Ordered that James Anderson the public Armourer be directed immediately to inspect the Arms brought from the Head of Elk, and to clean and repair the same, and that he afterwards proceed with[out] delay to clean and repair all the other arms in the magazine."5
In 1778 and 1779 Humphrey Harwood, local brick mason and builder, made certain repairs for James Anderson: 11
Mr JAMES ANDERSON (Black Smith) | Dr | ||
1788 | th | ||
Decemr | 4 | To 80 bricks 6/8. 3 bushs of lime a 2/3 | £ .13. 5 |
To Seting up A Grate 22/6 & laying A harth 6/ | 1. 8. 6 | ||
To 1 Days labour 8/ | 8. - | ||
1779 | th | ||
May | 18 | To 250 bricks 50/ 8 bushs of lime a 6/. & building up Steps to front Door 120/ | 10.18. - |
To 2 Days labour a 18/ | 1.16. - | ||
th | |||
Novemr | 25 | To 1200 Bundels of fodther for Which I am to Receive 4 Hoes for weeding of Corn1 | |
… |
Anderson continued to operate the blacksmith shop and the armourer's shop for the Commonwealth until the Capital was moved to Richmond in 1780. At that time, he moved to Richmond and operated these shops there until his resignation in July, 1782. He came back to Williamsburg and from that time until his death in 1798 he seems to have carried on a typical blacksmith shop in which he mended grates, shovels, locks, cart wheels, hames, singletrees; made keys, hinges, gridirons, hoes, bolts, staples for window shutters and springs for chariots and other conveyances.2
The Frenchman's Map of Williamsburg (1782) indicates several houses on what appears to be Lot 18. A long house faces on Main Street. To the rear are two rectangular houses on the western part of the lot with three smaller houses contiguous.3
The map known as the "College Map" (1791?) shows "Anderson" on
12
Lot 18 and "Byrd" on Lot 19. (This map if of late eighteenth century date must have had data added later, for Anna Byrd could not have been on Lot 19 in the eighteenth century as she acquired the property in 1801 from Dr. Barraud.)1
The Bucktrout Map (1803) added to by Lively (1867) indicates "Sands" on what would be Lot 18 if numbered, and "Leroy Anderson" to the east on Lot 19, if numbered.
In 1777 a letter from Governor Patrick Henry to Richard Henry Lee gives definite information concerning James Anderson and his work as Public Armourer for the Commonwealth of Virginia:
Saturday the 21st of March 1777.
Mr. James Anderson this day agreed to do Blacksmith's work for the Commonwealth of Virginia at his shop in Williamsburg on the following terms for six months, and for a longer time unless he shall give the Board one month's notice of his intention to decline the Business, or they shall give him the same notice of their intention to discontinue him via Mr. Anderson is to be allowed fifteen shillings per day for his own wages including Sundays, for the rent of his shop, six setts of Tools and eight Vices for the Gunsmiths Business at the rate of ninety pounds per annum, he is to be allowed 6 per day for boarding each work man, for his two forges and five apprentices three pounds per month each, and if he is deprived of either of them by any accident he is to supply their place with another Hand as good; He is to employ such other workmen as the public Business requires on the best terms he can, and charge the country with whatever wages he pays.2
From this letter we know definitely that Anderson had two forges, six sets of tools, eight vices, and five apprentices. Anderson was allowed goods, shoes, hose, shirts &c for clothing the apprentices and workers under 13 him at the Public Armoury.1 He was allowed the cost of beds at the Armoury used by prisoners put to work there; and baize from which aprons could be made for the negroes hired at the Armoury.2
Further indications that Anderson's blacksmith shop was located at his property is noted in an account of Humphrey Harwood, local brick mason and builder:
[p. 1] | The Continent for New Barracks by Colo Finnie | Dr |
1776 | ||
October 21st | ... | |
December 22 | ... | |
1777 | ||
Jany 7 | ... | |
26 | To 2750 bricks @ 27/6. 48 bushels of lime @ 9d. & 15 days labr @ 2/. | 7. 1. 7½ |
To building forge Chimney 30/. & underpining Shop 15/. at J. Andersons by Order Colo Finney | 2. 5. - | |
April 3 | To 4850 bricks for Chimney at new Barracks @ 47/6. | 11.10. 4½3 |
... |
[p. 25] | The Commonwealth of Virginia | Dr |
1778 | ||
May 5th | ... | |
... | ||
1779 | ||
January 2 | ... | |
... | ||
February 19 | ... | |
To Carting 4 loads of Sand @ 10/. for Mr Jas Anderson Shop Chimneys | 2. 0. - | |
To Building 3 forge Chimneys, @ 16/ & underpining Shop 16/. | 32. 0. -4 | |
... |
In 1777 Anderson had two forges; in 1779 he had three forges.
14In April, 1779 Anderson advertised in the local newspaper his need of a good blacksmith and nailer, and also six negroes to work in his shops:
Williamsburg, April 16, 1779.
I WILL give extraordinary wages to a good BLACKSMITH and NAILER, that is capable of acting as foreman in my shops.---I am in want of six likely young NEGRO FELLOWS for six months, for which I will give 100£. each.1
In June, 1779 Anderson advertised again:
Williamsburg, June 15, 1779.
I WILL give great wages for GUN STOCKERS, and BLACKSMITHS, that are good work men.
JAMES ANDERSON.2
Williamsburg Land Tax Records which began in 1782 list "[James An]derson" as owner of three lots with tax valuation of £7.3
From 1783 to 1791 Anderson had Harwood make changes in repairs and alterations to his property:
Mr JAMES ANDERSON (Black Smith) | Dr | |
... | ||
1783 rd | ||
January 3 | To 1 bushel of Lime 1/6 [£] | 1. 6 |
To Repairing Chimney & altering the Arch & plasterg 7/6 | 7. 6 | |
rd | ||
June 3 | To Bricking up Your Well 12/. & 2 Days labour a 3/ | 18. - |
To 18 bushs of Lime a 1/ | 18. - | |
1785 | ||
Decr 20 | To 200 bricks 6/ & 5 bushels of lime 5/ | 11. - |
To laying an Harth 3/9 & setting up a Grate 7/6 | 11. 3 | |
To labourers work 2/6 | 2. 6 | |
1786 | ||
July 13 | To Mortar 2/. Repairing plastering 2/6. Wht washing 2 Rooms 9/ | 13. 6 |
Wht washg 3 Cealings a 3/ Do 2 passages 9/. & 6 Clossets a 2/ | 10. - | |
15 | ||
To 12 bushel of White wash 3/ | 3. - | |
Novemr 9 | To 16 bushels of lime a 1/. & 325 bricks a 3/. & 3 days labr a 2/6 | 1.14. - |
To building 2 forges 18/ | 18. - | |
1787 | ||
April 3 | To 250 Lathes a 1/6 & lathing & plasterg Room to Shop 6/ | 9. 9 |
To 6 bushls of lime 6/. & Hair 9d & labrs Work 2/6 | 9. 3 | |
£ 13.15. 3 | ||
Carried to Folio 115 | ||
---|---|---|
[p. 115] | ||
1787 rd | Dr Brought forward from folio (22) | 13.15. 3 |
July 3 | To 12 bushels of lime 12/ & 3/4 bushel hair 1/6 | 13. 6 |
To 2 days labour 5/. & repairing Plastering 12/ | 17. - | |
To laying harth and repairing a Grate 3/ | 3. - | |
To 66 Bricks 2/. & white washing 4 Rooms & 2 passages a 4/6 | 1. 9. - | |
To 1 bushel of White wash 2/ | 2. - | |
1788 | ||
February 26 | To 1 Barrel of Corn 15/ | 15. - |
decr 10 | To 6 bushels of lime 6/. labr 2/6 & building forge 6/ | 14. 6 |
E. Exd £ 28.8.7 | 18.12. 3 | |
To Amt of sundries as pr underwritten account | 4.16. 4 | |
£ 23. 8. 7 | ||
To 620 Bricks a 3/. & 18 bushels of lime 18/. 3 days labr a 2/8 - & building a forge 15/. | 2.19. 1 | |
See Ledger C folo 5 | £ 26. 7. 81 |
[p. 5]
Mr JAMES ANDERSON | Dr | ||
(See ante accot prior due the Est. Ledg B. folo 115) | |||
1788 | |||
Decr | 10 | To 6 bushels of lime 6/. & building a Forge 6/ | £ 12. - |
To labour 2/6 | 2. 6 | ||
23 | To sundries 24/7 - (30th) To sundry Work 34/6 | 2.19. 1 | |
1789 | |||
Sepr | 15 | To 9 bushels of lime a 9d 88 Bricks & mendg Well 10/ | 16. 9 |
Octor | 22 | To 2 bush. of lime 1/6 & building a Forge 15/ | 16. 6 |
Novr | 4 | To building a Forge 15/ | 15. - |
1790 | |||
Jan: | 2 | To 2 bushels of lime 1/6 & mending plaistering 1/6 | 3. - |
June | 22 | To 2 bushels of Whitewash 3/ | 3. - |
To whitewashing 2 Rooms a 3/9 & 2 Ceilings & 7 Clossets a 1/6 | 1. 2. 6 | ||
To do 2 passages a 3/9 - lime & mendg spots per 6 | -. 6 | ||
16 | |||
July | 22 | To 2 days work of Natt - building a Wall - putting in a door frame & window frame 8/ | 8. - |
Octor | 24 | To 1½ bush. of lime 1/1½ & mending plaistering 1/ | 2. 1½ |
To whitewash & whitewashing 1/ | 1. - | ||
1791 | |||
Decr | 2 | To 3 bush: lime a 9d laying a Hearth, mending plaistg &c 4/ | 6. 31 |
In 1786 the land tax valuation increased from £7 (1782) to £22.10.2
A notice advertising the sale of the brick house adjoining James Anderson's appeared in 1795 in the local newspaper:
The large two story BRICK house adjoining Mr. James Anderson's and on the corner of the main and cross streets, about two hundred yards from the Raleigh Tavern…will be sold on Nov. 10th…3
In 1796 an insurance policy issued by the Mutual Assurance Society to Philip Barraud on a dwelling house on Francis Street gave the boundaries as "situated between the Cross Street and that of James Anderson, in the county of James City..."4 (This was the Barraud House on the south side of Francis Street.) Another policy was issued to William Carter on "Brick Buildings on the main street at Williamsburg now occupied by Jackson Saunders situated between the House of James Anderson and that of Mrs Powell in the county of James City..."5
James Anderson died in September, 1798. He did not leave a will. Evidence found in Letter Book #1 of Robert Anderson, his son, indicates that James Anderson owned homes in both Richmond (where he had lived as Public Armourer from 1780-1782) and in Williamsburg: 17
In this cause which abates by the death of the defendant James Anderson...the court on consideration thereof doth adjudge and decree that the Commissioners herein after named do divide the real estate of James Anderson deceased consisting of one house and lot in the city of Richmond, one house and lot, and two vacant half acre lots in the city of Williamsburg, and of several hundred acres of land in the state of Kentucky…1
The inventory and appraisement of the estate of James Anderson was made on October 25, 1803 with account of sales made on November 1, 1803. The total appraisal was set at $860.90. The inventory included personal property and items pertaining to the trade of a blacksmith: bellows, wire, sledge hammers, old iron, iron wheels, jack, cart wheel boxes, large scale beam and weights.2
Sometime after the death of James Anderson (1798) his dwelling house and lot in which all his children had an equity, were acquired by Nancy Camp,3 his daughter. Date of sale of dwelling and lot to Nancy Camp seems to be September, 1806. A memorandum in an Account Book of Robert Anderson, his son, will confirm this statement:
WILLIAMSBURG DECEMBER 180718
...
29
...Memo. The above named property [1 house and lot in Richmond and 2 vacant lots in Williamsburg] belonged to the estate of my father James Anderson and descended to seven of his children who survived him to wit--William, John Tyler, Leroy, Nancy, James, Henry and myself...a friendly suit was brought in the Richmond Chancery district Court for a division of the whole estate under a decree of which the two vacant lots in the city of Williamsburg were sold by J. Henderson, W. Tazewell, and Ro: H. Warburton the 20th of Sept. last. on 12 mos credit...4
WILLIAMSBURG DECEMBER 1807
...
29
...Nancy Camp dr To James Anderson's est for 29/35th of the houses and lot occupied by her which in the whole on a credit of 12 mos was sold by the commissioners on 29th Septm. last for $1000, and purchased by her the other 6/35th are retained for S. & W. Anderson, infant children of William Anderson decd [$] 828.57 James Andersons est dr To Nancy Camp for 23/35th of the above houses and lot which she is to account to Leroy Anderson Nancy Tyler Anderson Henry Anderson & herseof for to wit to
to Leroy Anderson 6/35th $171.42.90 [sic] to Nancy Tyler Anderson 5/35th 142.85.70 [sic] to Henry Anderson 6/35th 171.42.80 to herself 6/35th 171.42.80 657.14.20
The remaining 6/35th of 29/35th she will owe me for $171.42.80.1
Nancy Camp may have been occupying the James Anderson house and premises by 1805:
1805 Dec. 12--Letter of Robert Anderson to Joseph Prentis, Williamsburg:
Aunts, and Camp, together with several of your female friends direct me to present you the old accustomed offering--their love and with this conclusion of Love I will bid you adieu...21806, Aug. 12--Letter of Robert Anderson, Williamsburg, to Joseph Prentis, Jr., Suffolk:
…I found Camp's house almost deserted and Swepson too among the deserters…3
In June, 1806 Nancy Camp had some repair work done at Williamsburg:
WILLIAMSBURG June 1806 | ||
... | ||
19 | Nancy Camp Dr to Richard Lively for 42 feet timber for sills | [$] 5.83 |
... | ||
28 | ||
... | Nancy Camp re To Peter R. Deneufville for 3 M 8d nails | 50 0.504 |
In September, 1806 Nancy Camp was charged with plank and nails:
WILLIAMSBURG Septr 1806
...
6 Nancy Camp Dr for plank and Nails 11 June [$] 6.701
January 7, 1807 found Anderson writing to Prentis thus:
I go this evening to keep Geo. Pates birthday in dancing at the old Mary Camp & co...2
December 7, 1807 Anderson wrote to Prentis again:
I received your welcome letter while laying on Camps Carpet before the fire toasting the contents of an ague°3
In October, 1808 Nancy Camp was charged by Anderson with 162½ bushels of coal $40.22.4
By 1810 Nancy Camp was living in Richmond. An insurance policy declared that she resided in Richmond but was insuring her buildings in Williamsburg "...now unoccupied situated between the lot of Mary Stith on the West and of Leroy Anderson on the east...Dwelling house 44 by 20 feet two stories high-wing to the dwelling 20 by 30 feet..."5
The Camp property began to be designated by Anderson in his account books as "Camp's White House" or "White House of Nancy Camp's." Anderson undertook to keep the property, apparently, for his sister as there are numerous charges against her for repairs made: 20
WILLIAMSBURG August 1811 | ||
... | ||
27 | White House of N. Camp for his [Richard Garrett] a/c for shingling &c | $52.46 |
... | ||
WILLIAMSBURG September 1811 | ||
... | ||
9 | Camps White House for a draught on E. Ambler | 50. - |
WILLIAMSBURG February 1812 | ||
... | ||
11 | Camps White House dr To Cash paid John James for 60 sawed oak rails | $10. - |
... | ||
WILLIAMSBURG May 1812 | ||
... | ||
14 | Nancy Camp White House To the Mutual Ass. Society for the amount of quota for the year 1812 on 231 | $12.98 |
WILLIAMSBURG July 1812 | ||
15 | Camps White House dr To Sundries | |
Edward Turner for glass, putty, nails &c | [$]14.08 | |
Robert Ratcliffe for bricks, work for well, line | 14.80 | |
James Henderson for 500 pales of cypress @ 2 | 11.25 | |
Richard Garrett for plank | 2. - | |
James Guthrie for work | 36.12 | |
Merchandise for pales & posts | 25. - | |
... | ||
1 White House for nails and window glass | 3.721 |
Prior to January, 1813 the Nancy Camp House had been rented to W. T. Galt:
WILLIAMSBURG January 1813
…
2
White House recd of W T Galt for part of rent [$]100. -
On July 3, 1813 Galt paid balance of rent, $50, to Anderson.3
Throughout 1815-1819 Anderson continued to enter items against Nancy Camp for minor repairs on her Williamsburg property: 21
WILLIAMSBURG August 1815 | |||
… | |||
2 | |||
… | Camps White House for sundry Brick work | [$]11.67 | |
WILLIAMSBURG August 1815 | |||
… | |||
5 | Merchandise Camps White House to Thomas Sands for white washing done for house & lime &c | 4.92 | |
… | |||
WILLIAMSBURG August 1815 | |||
16 | |||
… | Sundries to Richard Garrett | ||
Nancy Camps White House--for work done | 31.00 | ||
… | |||
WILLIAMSBURG December 1815 | |||
… | |||
22 | |||
… | White House for Cellar hinges, nails | 10.84 | |
WILLIAMSBURG May 1816 | |||
… | |||
1 | Nancy Camp White House for repairs &c to Kitchen & smoke house | 76.01 | |
… | |||
WILLIAMSBURG June 1816 | |||
… | |||
28 | Camps White House painting two Cellar caps &c | 3.33 | |
… | |||
WILLIAMSBURG July 1816 | |||
11 | |||
… | Camps White House paid for Closet & other locks | 10.75 | |
WILLIAMSBURG January 1818 | |||
… | |||
2 | Camps White House for plank in 1815 | 9.20 | |
… | |||
WILLIAMSBURG May 1818 | |||
… | 6 | Camps White House repairing cellar steps | 10.001 |
… | |||
WILLIAMSBURG April 1820 | |||
5… | Camps White House for 12 pannels planking between Mrs Byrds lot | 36.00 | |
WILLIAMSBURG September 1820 | |||
… | |||
15 | Camps White House for tax on house & lot | 3.901 |
In 1820 Williamsburg Land Tax records give: Mary Camp (Richmond) 1 lot, life value of buildings $1300; lot and buildings $1400 (formerly charged to, and in part held by Robert Anderson).2
In 1823 Nancy Camp moved to Norfolk. She insured her property in Williamsburg again: "…owned by Nancy Camp residing at Norfolk…occupied by Robert Anderson…are situated on the main Street in Williamsburg north, a back street south--Sands' lot East and Stiths lot west…"3
During 1829-1832 Anderson charged Mrs. Camp's house with minor repairs:
WILLIAMSBURG December 1829 | ||
… | ||
28 | Nancy Camp for sundry work &c for dwelling &c | $37.96 |
… | ||
WILLIAMSBURG January 1830 | ||
… | ||
29 | Nancy Camp for 32 lbs Nails for shingling &c | 3.20 |
… | ||
WILLIAMSBURG October 1831 | ||
25 | ||
… | Nancy Camp--for work done by Richard M. Bucktrout on her lot by him | 29.604 |
23 | ||
WILLIAMSBURG October 1842 | ||
Ann Camp dr To Merchandise Account for sundry repairs &c to house from Jany 1832 | 101.00 | |
… | ||
Ann Camp for 12 years rent of house & lot from Jany 1831 to Jany 1843 | 1200.001 |
Mrs. Camp insured her property in 1830 thus: she stated that she was the owner and Robert Anderson was the occupant. The dwelling was valued at $1800 and the kitchen at $160.2
In 1839 Mrs. Camp insured the property again: Robert Anderson was the occupant. The dwelling and wing were valued at $3000 and the kitchen at $250.3
In 1840 Williamsburg Land Tax Records indicate that Robert Anderson was owner of "1 lot valued with buildings at $1400 via Nancy Camp."4 When Nancy Camp sold the Williamsburg property to her brother, Robert, she retained a life right. An insurance policy of Robert Anderson's, April 14, 1840, on this property states that "Nancy Camp holds the life estate…that the property was occupied by Anderson and it was situated between Thomas Sands on the east and Beverly Rowsay and others on the west, main street on the north and Francis street on the south…"5
In 1842 a native of Williamsburg wrote in her Diary that a big fire had occurred on the south side of Duke of Gloucester Street burning down the house which Robert Anderson owned or occupied then: 24
1842
April 4, A Great Fire occured at 2 oclock last night it originated in Mr T Sands burnt Mr Robert Andersons house Mr. G. Southalls office Nelly Bollin's beverly Rowzies on the other Miss R Mr Andersons large Store on the opposite side of the Street, Sally Jeffersons house on the Back Street the old Coffee house occupied by Mr Hurt and anoth tenement.1
Another account of the fire follows:
Sumterville, Alabama
My dear brother
I was much shocked and concerned, to learn by an article in the Phenix that your dwelling house and store had been burned down, together with some other houses. I picture to myself the anxiety and perplexity of yourself, sister Helen, and indeed the whole family, in endeavouring to save the many articles of value and interests that it contained. We wait with feelings of anxious suspense to hear the particulars of the Accident, and as none can describe them more minutely than yourself a circumstantial account from your pen, would be received with thankfulness by us all. I hope, indeed I feel pretty certain, that the house and property were insured…2
In 1843 Williamsburg Land Tax Records note that two buildings (on separate lots) belonging to Robert Anderson had been totally destroyed by fire. Such lots were valued at $300. Apparently, Anderson was owner of the lots until 1861 which is the last date of the records available.3
A statement of Mr. John S. Charles in his "Recollections of Williamsburg" during the Civil War period, indicates that a fire had swept over this area:
…
There were, when the War began, no more houses on this square fronting on Duke of Gloucester street; but instead there were immense brick gable ends of houses that had long since been destroyed by fire. These foundations were often filled with 25 water that afforded the small boys rare sport--boating in the summer and skating in the winter…1
At Anderson's death in 1859, his will indicated that he still was owner of the property, subject of this report. Just what disposition was made of the lot is not known--except we know that, apparently a house had been erected on the lot following the fire. However, in June, 1880 from a deed of date, July 28, 1884, we learn that George W. Potts had become the owner at the sale of Robert Anderson's property by the commissioners so directed.2
In 1883 Potts conveyed the property to James Edloe--the lot fronting 60 feet on the south side of Duke of Gloucester Street running back between parallel lines 152 feet.3 In May, 1884 Edloe and Potts by deed conveyed to James L. Slater.4
In 1888 James L. Slater and Robinette, R., his wife, gave deed to R. A. Wise, Trustee, "in trust nevertheless that the said party of the second part will permit Maria C. Burke, the wife of M. F. Burke, to hold and occupy and enjoy the said property and the rents…thereof for and during her natural life, and after her death, that the same shall be occupied and enjoyed by the children or survivors of them of the said Maria C. Burke to them and her heirs forever."5
In 1903 M. F. Burke, Trustee for Maria C. Burke, Walter H. Burke 26 and Ava, his wife; W. H. Burke and Margaret, his wife, and Maria J. Burke conveyed with general warranty to Margarethe Larson, the property described as "on Duke of Gloucester Street 150 by 60 feet."1 Several liens and deeds of trust follow until 1909 Margarethe Larson, widow, gave deed to secure payment of $1200 to C. H. Lee.2 In 1915 a sale was made to comply with the terms of the deed of trust of 1909. Orpha J. Lee, widow, for $1000 conveyed with general warranty to A. W. Hitchens the property mentioned above.3
In 1932 A. W. Hitchens and Mamie, his wife, conveyed the property described in deeds above, to Williamsburg Holding Corporation. The grantors reserved the use and possession of the said property to and until January 10, 1934, free from rent.4
Further details of ownership can be found in the Accounting Department, Colonial Williamsburg, Incorporated.
1782 | derson | 3 lots | £7 annual value [taxed] |
1786 | James Anderson | 3 | £22.10.-- |
1791 | James Anderson | 3 | £15.--.-- |
1797 | James Anderson | 3 | £15.--.-- |
1798 | James Anderson | 3 | |
1801 | James Anderson's Est | 3 | $50.00 |
1806 | James Anderson Est | 3 | $75 |
1809 | Robert Anderson | 3 | $80 |
via. J. Anderson Est. | 3 | ||
1810-1819 |
[Anderson owned either 4 ¾ or 5 lots. The 3 lots via J. Anderson are listed among them, but I am unable to figure out which they are. M.A.S.]
Estate | Value of lots | Sum added to lots for bldgs. | ||
1820 | Mary Camp (Richmond) | 1 life | $1300 | $1400 (Formerly charged to and in part held by Robert Anderson) |
1821 | Nancy Camp Norfolk | 1 | $1300 | $1400 A misnomer in the last return of the commissioners. |
1822-1839 | Nancy Camp Norfolk | 1 | $1300 | $1400 |
1840 | Robert Anderson | 1 | $1400 | $1500 via Nancy Camp |
1842 | Robert Anderson | 1 | $1400 | $1500 |
1843 | Robert Anderson | 1 | 200 Buildings totally destroyed by fire in April 1842 | |
Robert Anderson | 1 | $100 Buildings totally destroyed by fire in April 1842 |
[Note: Because of the number of lots owned in Williamsburg by Robert Anderson it is impossible to figure out from the tax records which lot corresponds to the lot, subject of this study. Obviously, he was the owner in 1859 when he died. M.A.S.]
James Anderson, blacksmith, was born in 1739/40. He married Hannah Tyler. He was in Williamsburg by 1766 for he bought 120 acres on the south side of Queen's Creek from Peter Powell, chairmaker. In 1767 he purchased the southern part of Lot 19 on Francis Street (site of the present Barraud House). There is a possibility that he built thereon and occupied it. In 1770 he had acquired Lot 18 entire. The same year Anderson conveyed a small strip of Lot 19 to William Holt. Following his death in 1798 his property passed to his daughter, Nancy Camp, and then to his son, Robert Anderson. The last named conveyed the strip of Lot 19 in 1783 to William Carter.
Anderson maintained shops and forges on his Williamsburg property. In 1776 he was appointed Public Armourer and rented his shops and forges to the Commonwealth of Virginia during the Revolutionary War. In 1780 when the Capital moved to Richmond Anderson went to carry on his work there. He remained until 1782 when he resigned as Public Armourer and returned to his home in Williamsburg. In 1788 Anderson had Humphrey Harwood, a Williamsburg brick mason and carpenter, build other forges for him. A manuscript book of Anderson's exists covering the period 1788-1798 which, from the accounts, would indicate that Anderson's shops during these years handled simple blacksmith's work such as horse shoeing, mending tools, &c. There are items in the Virginia Gazette, Official Letters of the Governors of Virginia, Calendar of Virginia State Papers, and Public Store Records, Williamsburg, which show the kind of work which Anderson performed for the State and for his private business. His inventory, made in Williamsburg in 1803, lists bellows, anvils, vices, scales, hammers, tongs, &c. For further details see: Illustration #4, appendix, of this report.
Anderson had eight children: John Tyler Anderson, William Anderson, Leroy Anderson, Nancy Anderson Camp, James Anderson, Julia Anderson, Henry Anderson and Robert Anderson. See: Genealogical chart attached for dates of birth, marriages and deaths.
Sources used in compiling these notes:
Robert Anderson, son of James Anderson of Williamsburg (blacksmith, gunsmith and public armourer during the Revolution), and Hannah Tyler, was born in Gloucester County on October 22, 1781. James and Hannah Anderson had eight children: William, John Tyler, Leroy, Nancy who married George Camp, James, Julia, Henry and Robert. Robert was a nephew of Matthew and Rachel Anderson who owned Lot 51 at one time.
In 1814 Anderson married Helen Maxwell Macaulay Southall, widow of Peyton Southall. Her mother was a daughter of Alexander Macaulay, prominent merchant of Yorktown. George W. Southall was a step-son of Anderson.
Anderson owned considerable property in Williamsburg, Yorktown, Richmond and Norfolk. For many years he was a special agent for the Mutual Assurance Society of Richmond. He was financially interested in the Dismal Swamp Company. He acted as executor or administrator for numerous estates in Williamsburg and Yorktown. His account books, day books and journals provide detailed business accounts of people in the Williamsburg area from around 1800 until his death in 1859. The originals are now at the Virginia Historical Society at Richmond.
Sometime prior to his death --after 1853 he moved to Yorktown leaving his wife in Williamsburg. His will dated February 22, 1857 with four codicils was recorded at Circuit Court for James City County and the City of Williamsburg the 12th day of October 1871 and proved by Robert A. Bright and William S. Peachy. An inventory and appraisement of the personal estate was taken the 4th day of November, 1879. This is on record in the York County Court Records. There were a number of suits pending for years in the settlement of the estate; some went on for years after his death. He left no legitimate children. Those spoken of as son or daughter were the children of his wife. He remembered liberally slaves and children of slaves. ---his children
The residence of Mrs. Helen M. Southall (widow of Peyton Southall and wife of Robert Anderson) at the time of the death of Robert Anderson, was the house now known as the "Barraud House," located on the southern part of Lot 19, Williamsburg.
Sources used in compiling these notes:
Cole Digges was the son of Councilor Dudley Digges of "Bellfield," York County. He was born in 1692. He married Elizabeth Power, daughter of Dr. Henry Power.
Cole Digges was a Burgess representing York County in 1718 and a Councilor from 1720-1744. He died in 1744.
Source used in compiling these notes:
Dudley Digges was the son of Colonel Cole Digges and Elizabeth Power. He was born in 1718, educated at William and Mary College, Burgess from York County 1752-1776, member of the Revolutionary Conventions and Committee of Correspondence, Committee of Safety, 1775 and a member of the Board at the Eastern State Hospital acting as president until his death in 1790. He married Martha Armistead.
Sources used in compiling these notes:
Thomas Ravenscroft, according to Dr. Lyon G. Tyler, was in Virginia by 1692. In 1715 he acquired Lots 268 from Christopher Jackson in Williamsburg. In 1716 he acquired Lots 269-270 from the trustees of the city. Evidently, he had bought Lots 17 & 18 on Duke of Gloucester Street prior to 1723 for in that year he and his wife, Elizabeth, sold to Cole Digges. In 1720/21 Ravenscroft patented 5000 acres in Prince George County. In 1722/23 he was sheriff of James City County.
It is assumed that he removed to Prince George County around 1723. He was a Burgess representing Prince George County 1727-1734 and Justice of the Peace of Prince George County in 1733.
In 1734 and 1735 Ravenscroft agreed to build the church at Wells Hill (Blandford, Petersburg) for £485. As he was of the vestry, we assume that he acted as a contractor for this project though he is cited as a carpenter in York County Records.
He married Elizabeth ---- and had a son, John Ravenscroft. Bishop. John Stark Ravenscroft, first Bishop of North Carolina, was his great grandson.
Ravenscroft died in January, 1736/37 according to the Virginia Gazette.
Sources used in compiling these notes:
William Withers, private secretary of Governor Dinwiddie, was born in Lancaster, England, in 1731/32, and came to Virginia in 1745 as the heir of an estate, "Chotank," in Stafford County which had been devised to him by a relative, John Withers, by will dated August 29, 1698.
The ancestor of the family in Virginia was William Withers. [above noted]. His father dying before his birth, he was reared by his uncle who was a clergyman of the Established Church. In Virginia, Withers was first employed as the clerk of Anthony Walke of Nansemond County. He afterwards located in Williamsburg where he became the secretary of Dinwiddie. According to one account of him, he went with Dinwiddie to England in 1758. If he did, he was back in Virginia in 1761 when he conveyed property to William Carter.
Withers removed to Dinwiddie County ca. 1769 and located at a place still known as "Kingston." A Lieutenant William Withers was in the Revolutionary War in 1777. In 1769 Withers served as Justice of Dinwiddie County. In 1782 he was an inhabitant of Petersburg and furnished aid from Brunswick County in the war.
Withers married on October 19, 1761 Priscilla Wright of Nansemond County. He had a daughter, Priscilla who married John Grammer in 1788; and four sons: William, Thomas, John and David Wright. Their descendants are now living in Petersburg and around in Dinwiddie and Brunswick Counties.
Withers died in 1816 at "Locust Grove," Dinwiddie County.
Sources used in compiling these notes:
M-1016-1
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book Oct. 12, 1775-Oct. 1776
October 12th 1775
p. 4 Thos Harris Armourer Dr pr Comty Safety To general Acct for 2 Blankets @ 11/ £ 1. 3. - 2 shirts (chick) @ 14/3 1. 8. 6 1 pr Shoes 7. 6 1 pr Stockings 2. 6
M-1016-2
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Journal 1776-Aug. 1777
p. 240 Williamsburg July 16th 1777Public Armoury
To Cash paid John Wilson & Co for 560 lb blisterd Steel, delivd---50.-.-
James Anderson pr Rect
Ibid.
Journal Sept. 14, 1778-Nov. 30, 1779, #45
Williamsburg October 10th 1778…
Publick Armoury
To Sundry Old Wrappers for Approns for the Smith's at work in Mr Anderson Shop £ 2. 8. -
Ibid.
October 27, 1778
p. 47 Publick Armoury Dr To 7 Large Spike Gimblets @ 5/3 £ .15. 9 6 Do Do @ 1/2 7. 6 3 Gimblets @ 6/ 1. 6 1 Grindstone 12. - pr James Anderson £ 1.16. 9
Ibid.
Nov. 11, 1778
p. 63Williamsburg
Public Armoury Dr Cash paid for Candles for the use of the Publick BlackSmith Shop---13.-.-
Ibid.
Nov. 16, 1778
p. 66 Publick Armoury Dr To Cash paid Mr James Anderson for 15 pr hinges bot of Geo. Reid for his Shop 6.0.0
M-1016-2
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Journal Sept. 14, 1778-Nov. 30, 1779, #45
p. 1 Sept 14, 1778 WilliamsburgPublick Armoury
To Cash paid Colo Turner Southall 300 Bushels Coal deld Mr Anderson :4/ 60.0.0
M-1016-1
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book October 1775-April 1779July 14, 1777
GENL ACCT COMMONWEALTH Dr To Cash paid Jas Anderson for 3 Juggs Linseed Oil 3 Juggs @ 3/ [not extended] 9 Gall 3 qts @ 12/6 [not extended]
M-1016-2
Williamsburg Public Store Records
p. 174
PUBLICK ARMOURY Dr July 5, 1777… Augt 18 To Cash paid W Aylett for Iron delivd Mr Anderson [£] 104.7.10
M-1016-1
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book October 12, 1775-October 1776August 30, 1777 Williamsburg
James Anderson
PUBLICK ARMOURY Dr To 1 Box Sheet Tin deliv'd Some time ago to Mr Anderson for Making Kettles &c Delvd
Ibid., vol. 7
Day Book begun 25th August 1777Sept. 20, 1777
James Anderson
PUBLICK ARMOURY pr Or Mr Page Dr To Sundries pr Mr Anderson for Clothing the Workmen Viz 2 ¾ yds Coating @ 20/ 2.15. - 3 Yds Honleys @ 12/ 1.16. - 3/ yd Cloth @ 24/ .18. - 14 Yds Oznbrigs @ 3/ 2. 2. - 6 Hs Turst 7 1/2d . 3. 9 3 pr Shoes @ 8/ 6 pr Hose @ 5/
M-1016-1
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book begun 25th August 1777, vol. 7October 28, 1777
PUBLICK ARMOURY Dr To 6 Dutch blanketts @ 30 Yds linen for beds & sheets @ 6/ Deliver'd
James Anderson
Ibid.
Day Book June 1, 1778-Nov. 13, 1778November 13, 1778
½ Box Candles £13.-.- for the use of the Shop
recd by
James Anderson
Ibid.
Day Book June 1, 1778-Nov. 13, 1778February 7, 1778
PUBLICK ARMORY Dr pr Mr James Anderson To 1 Large Spike Gimlet No 14 @ 2/6 £ -. 2. 6 To 2 Ditto ditto No 11 @ 1/5 -. 2.10
M-1016-3
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Ledger January 1778-November 30, 1778
p. 52PUBLICK ARMORY
1778
February
…
May 14 To 2251 lb of Steel deld Mr James Anderson @ £21.16/pr ---490.14.4 ¼
M-1016-1
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book Jan. 7, 1778-May 30, 1778, vol. 10May 14, 1778 Williamsburg
…
PUBLICK ARMOURY Dr for 90 Barrs of German Steel deld Mr Jas Anderson To 8 Faggetts Steel by Thos Pitt Recd: by
James Anderson
Ibid.
Day Book June 1, 1778-Nov. 13, 1778, vol. 11PUBLICK STORE WMSBURG
August 26, 1778 Williamsburg
Publick Armourer Dr To 39 panes of horn for makg Lanthorns
M-1016-1
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book June 1, 1778-Nov. 13, 1778, vol. 11Sept. 3, 1778
Deld Mr James Anderson Seventy one tons of Lead brot from Mr Holts; being part of four Tons manufacd by Mr Holt from a quantity of pigs send him from on board the Brigg Northampton 600.0.0
M-1016-1
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book June 1, 1778-Nov. 13, 1778Oct. 24, 1778 Williamsburg
PUBLICK ARMOURY pr Ord Govr Dr To Sunds deld John Gregory a File Smith at work in Mr Andersons Shop 3.9.6
M-1016-1
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book Jan. 14, 1779 WilliamsburgJan. 11, 1779 Williamsburg
PUBLICK ARMORY Dr To 1 Box Sheet Tin @ 150/ 4 Blankets @ 30/ for the use of the Boys employ'd in the Nail business 8 in number Recd by James Anderson
Ibid.
Day Book Jan. 14, 1779 WilliamsburgJan. 21, 1779
[James Anderson paid 15/ 3d for clothing for apprentice boys.]
M-1016-1
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book Jan. 14, 1779 WilliamsburgFeb. 22, 1779 PUBLICK ARMOURY To 5 Quire paper @ 7/ to repare the windows of the House rented of Mrs Hay 12/lb F 1.18.3 Recd by James Anderson
M-1016-2
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book July 1, 1779-July 12, 1780
p. 33 Sept. 2, 1779
Publick Armoury pr Ord Bd of War Dr To 6 dressed Calf Skins @ 135/5d £ 40.12. 6 for 6 Aprons for the Pub Smith pr Mr Anderson
Ibid.
p. 40 Sept. 15, 1779
Publick Armoury Dr To 1986 Sheets Tin pr Inventory @ 1/ £ 993.-.-
M-1016-2
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780Novr 4, 1779 Williamsburg
Publick Armoury pr Mrs Hay Dr To Cash paid for 9 Months rent of a House to repair & Clean the Publick Arms by Mr Andersons people 45.-.-
Ibid.
Journal Sept. 14, 1778-Nov. 30, 1779, #45March 5, 1779 Williamsburg
Publick Armoury pr verb. ord Govr Dr To 4 Blankets @ 73/ £ 14.12.0 To 36 Yds brown Linen @ 7/6 13.10.- £ 28.2.- for Beds & covering for the use of the Prisoners employ'd in cleaning Arms to be returned
pr Jas Anderson
Ibid.
Journal Sept. 14, 1778--Nov. 30, 1779, #45
p. 250 April 9, 1779
Publick Armoury pr Mr Anderson Dr To 5 pairs Shoes for 5 Negroes employ'd in the Publick Blacksmiths Shop @ 25/
M-1016-2
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780April 26, 1779
PUBLICK ARMOURER Dr To 2 Boxes of Tin, one not quite full @ 15.-.- Recd James Anderson
Ibid.
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780
PUBLICK ARMOURY pr Ord Govr Dr April 26, 1779 To 48 Yds baize @ 10 Yds do for approns for the Negroes hired by the Publick 36.-.- Recd by James Anderson
Ibid.
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780May 5, 1779
Publick Armoury pr ord honble D Jamieson Dr To Sundng for 5 boys Samuel Dun, Thos Stroud, Thos Haney Jno Martin, Sam Bryan, imployed in making Nails, pr Vol: ord Mr Jameson To 85 Yds Oznabrigs @ /6 1 1b Thread @ 18/ 10 doz buttons 10.3.6 pr James Anderson
M-1016-2
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780May 10, 1779
Deld Mr James Anderson 16 [1b] Candles for the use of the Publick Armoury 2.8.-
Ibid.
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780
May 12, 1779 Dr Deld 3 1b Candles for Armourers 1.16.-
Ibid.
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780PUBLICK ARMOURY ord B. W. Aug. 11, 1779
[checks, linen, thread, "for Sheets for the Workmen"] drilling for beds, bolsters &c 91.16.6
Ibid.
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780
Sept. 8, 1779 Wmsburg Dr Publick Armoury ord B. W. 15 x Cut Saw files @ 9/4d 9 hand saw do @ 6/4d 12 Dressd Calf Skins for aprons 135.5.- pr Jas Anderson
Ibid.
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780
Sept. 11, 1779 Dr Publick Armoury pr Mr. Anderson for 3 Tons Nail rods Case & Inventy 3243.16.5 deld the 7th
Ibid.
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780
Sept. 20, 1779 Williamsburg Dr PUBLICK ARMOURY Ord. Bd of War 6 Baskets contg 72 bottles Oil @ 36/ 129.12.0 306 1b Wire @ 90/ 1377.-.- 20 1b Sheet Lead @ 40/6 40.10.- £ 1547.2.- pr Jas Anderson
Ibid.
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780Nov. 5, 1779
Publick Armoury Dr To 1 Ton of Nail rods pr Thos Powell £ 1087.4.- pr James Anderson
M-1016-1
Williamsburg Public Store Records 1775-1780
Roll 1
Cash Book July 1, 1779-June 22, 1780
p. 26 Mr James Anderson for his Apprents Augt 19th 1779 Dr 24 ¾ Yds blue Cloth @ 50/ 12.7.6[St] 25 doz butts 14/ 4 Scanes chrd 3 0.15.0 22 pr Country Shoes @ 8/ 22 pr hose @ 5/ 14.6.0 22 Wb Shirts @ 12/6 33 Yds Check 2/3 17.9.0
Ibid.
Cash Book July 1, 1779-June 22, 1780
p. 31 Sept. 15, 1779 Dr James Anderson 25 1b bro Sugar @ 20/ 25.0.0 1 doz knives & Forks 4.3.4
Ibid.
Cash Book July 1, 1779-June 22, 1780
p. 35 Oct. 2, 1779James Anderson Genl ord. Council
25 1b Coffee @ 17/6d 21.17.6
M-1016-2
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780Sept. 14, 1779 PUBLICK ARMOURY pr James Ands for 1986 Sheets Tin pr Inventory @ 1/ [not extended]
Ibid.
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780Nov. 4, 1779
PUBLICK ARMOURY pr Mrs Hay Dr To Cash paid for 9 Months rent of a house to repair & Clean the publick Arms by Mr Andersons people 45.-.-
Ibid.
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780May 18, 1779
"James Bryan in shop with J. A."
Ibid.
Day Book April 10, 1779-June 20, 1780March 25, 1779
PUBLICK ARMOURY Dr To 10 Yards thick Ducks for the Bellows to cover their joints Recd by James Anderson.
M-1016-2
Williamsburg Public Store Records
Day Book Nov. 1778-Nov. 1780PUBLICK ARMOURY
[5 boys paid for making nails]
Ibid.
Day Book Nov. 1778-Nov. 1780
PUBLICK ARMOURY pr Mr James Anderson Dr To 1/2 Coil deep sea Line wh for securing Gun Braces 0.10.0
JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF VIRGINIA Vol. II, p. 459, appendixWednesday 20th March 1776
Present. The Members for the preceeding Day.…
Articles of Agreement between James Anderson Blacksmith & The Committee on behalf of the public, were Signed & acknowledged by the said James Anderson and Edmund Pendleton Esquire President, and ordered to be recorded.
…
Ibid., p. 410.Ibid., p. 48.February 10, 1776
…
Ordered a Warrant to James Anderson for £119.2.10½ the ballance on account for Smiths Work settled by the Commissioners
…
December 17, 1777
…
Warrant for fifty pounds payable to James Anderson upon Account as Public Armourer.
…
Ibid., p. 18.October 28, 1777
…
His Excellency the Governor, with the Advice of the Council, issued a War, upon the Treasurer in favor of James Anderson for fifty pounds upon Account as Public Armourer.
…
Ibid., p. 39.December 3, 1777
…
The Governor & Council this day agreed to allow Mr James Anderson (Blacksmith) thirty two pounds per month for Nine Hands, & twenty shillings per Diem (Sundays excluded) for himself; and at the rate of Ninety pounds per Annum for his Shop & Tools for Six Months to commence from the 21st Septr last. Mr Anderson is to be allowed Rations for himself & Workmen--a Load of Wood per Week or as much as is necessary to cook for the Workmen. The Wages of the Journeymen are to be as Cheap as Mr Anderson can get them for. Mr Anderson attended in Council & accepted of the above Terms.
…
JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF VIRGINIA Vol. II, p. 79.February 5, 1778
The Lieutenant Governor with the Advice of the Council, gave Orders to James Anderson (Public Blacksmith) to deliver 500 lbs Iron to Robert Gibbons for the use of the Garrison at York.
…
Ibid., p. 128.May 4, 1778
A Warrant was issued for fifty pounds payable to James Anderson upon Account as Public Armourer.
…
Ibid., p. 151.June 20, 1778
A Warrant was issued by the Governor with the Advice of the Council, for fifty pounds payable to Mr James Anderson upon account as Public Armourer.
…
Ibid., p. 179.August 22, 1778
…
A Warrant for fifty pounds payable to Mr James Anderson upon Account as public Armourer.
…
Ibid., p. 200.October 21, 1778
A Warrant was issued for two hundred pounds payable to James Anderson upon Account as public Armourer.
…
Ibid., p. 230.December 5, 1778
A Warrant was issued upon the Treasurer for One hundred pounds payable to Mr James Anderson upon Account as Armourer & Smith for the public.
…
JOURNAL OF THE COUNCIL OF VIRGINIA Vol. II, p. 251.March 26, 1779
…
Wart to Mr James Anderson £300 on acct as Per Armorer.
…
Ibid., p. 285.February 3, 1781
…
Also a Warrant to Mr James Anderson, public armourer for two thousand pounds upon acct:
…
1810 November 16th Mutual Assurance Policy #231
"Nancy Camp residing at Richmond in the county of Henrico do hereby declare for assurance in the Mutual Assurance Society against fire on buildings of the state of Virginia my buildings on Duke of Glouster Street in the city of Williamsburg and county of York which are now unoccupied situated between the lot of Mary Stith on the West and of Leroy Anderson on the east in the county of York…
The Dwelling marked A at | $800 |
The Wing to | |
Dwelling marked B at | 700 |
The Kitchen marked C at | 100 |
$2500" |
1823 April 7th. Mutual Assurance Policy #5012 Revaluation of Buildings declared for Assurance by Nancy Camp as per Declaration #231
"…That the said buildings are at present owned by the said Nancy Camp residing at Norfolk and are occupied by Robert Anderson That they are situated on the main street in Williamsburg north a back street south-Sand's lot East and Stiths lot west in the county of York & James City…
The Dwelling & Wing marked A at | $1875 |
The Kitchen marked B at | 185 |
$2060" |
1830 May 20th. Mutual Assurance Policy #7578 Revaluation of Buildings declared for Assurance by Nancy Camp as per Declaration #5012…
"That the said Buildings are at present owned by Nancy Camp residing at Norfolk and are occupied by Robert Anderson That they are situated on the main street in Williamsburg, between the lots of Thomas Sands and Richard Coke Junr on the East, and the lots formerly Mary Stiths on the West, and streets otherwise in the county of York…
The Dwelling and wing marked A at | $1800 |
The Kitchen marked B at | 160 |
$1960" |
1839 April 24th. Mutual Assurance Society Policy #10995 Revaluation of Buildings declared for Assurance by Nancy Camp as per Declaration #7578
"…That the said Buildings are at present owned by Nancy Camp and are occupied by Robert Anderson That they are situated on the Main street in Williamsburg on the North, Francis street on the South, Richard Coke Junr and Thomas Sands' lot on the East, and the late Mary Stiths lot on the West…Nancy Camp now residing at Norfolk…
The Dwelling and Wing marked A at | $3000 |
The Kitchen marked B at | 250 |
$3250" |
1840 April 14th Mutual Assurance Society Policy #11,111 revaluation of buildings formerly declared for assurance by Nancy Camp per declaration #7578
"Robert Anderson the underwritten reversioner for myself and for Nancy Camp who holds the life estate residing at Williamsburg in the county of York do hereby declare for assurance…the buildings on south side of main street in Williamsburg now occupied by myself situated between the lot of Thomas Sands on the east and Beverly Rowsay and others on the west, main street on the north and Francis street on the south in the county of York…
The Dwelling and wing marked A at | $3000 |
The Kitchen marked B at | 250 |
$3250" |
Inventory and appraisement of the estate of James Anderson, decd in Williamsburg made on the 25th October 1803 | Account of Sales of the est. of James Anderson decd made 1st November 1803 on a credit of six months. | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Nat, a Negro man blacksmith | 600.00 | Robert Anderson | 600.00 | |
1 | pair blacksmiths bellows | 20.00 | Nathaniel Anderson | 11.00 |
one anvil | 20.00 | do do | 11.00 | |
one anvil | 9.00 | George Jackson | 5.00 | |
one Vice | 8.00 | Nathaniel Anderson | 8.00 | |
one Vice | 8.00 | George Jackson | 5.50 | |
1 | large scale beam and@@weights | 8.00 | do do | 4.00 |
3 | bunches wire | 1.50 | Robert Anderson | 1.50 |
1 | lot of guns and pistols | 4.00 | James Wright | 2.75 |
2 | sledge hammers | 4.00 | Nathaniel Anderson | 4.00 |
1 | lot of hammers | 2.00 | do do | 2.25 |
1 | box sundry old iron | 3.00 | James Wright | 2.25 |
1 | plough | 2.00 | George Jackson | 1.00 |
9 | cart wheel boxes | 1.00 | Nathaniel Anderson | 1.00 |
1 | brass kettle &c | 3.00 | James Wright | 2.25 |
four mills incomplete | 3.00 | do do | 8.25 | |
1 | Jack and several iron@@wheels | 2.00 | John Crump | .60 |
1 | lot of files | 3.00 | Simkin Bryan | 1.66 |
1 | lot of window scrawls | 3.50 | George Jackson | 3.25 |
1 | lot of iron and chair wings | 1.00 | do do | 0.50 |
1 | lot of tongs | 2.00 | Benjamin Powell | 1.00 |
1 | lot of punches &c | 2.00 | Nathaniel Anderson | 1.00 |
1 | dozen mahogany chairs | 24.00 | Nancy Camp | 24.00 |
13 | black walnut chairs | 6.50 | John Crump | 7.28 |
1 | pair Mahogany tables | 12.00 | Nancy Camp | 12.00 |
1 | corner table | 3.00 | Robert Anderson | 1.00 |
1 | round table | 3.00 | Nancy Camp | 3.00 |
1 | looking glass | 3.00 | Nancy Camp | 3.00 |
20 | oz. 12 dwt. silver spoons@@9/ Oz. | 30.90 | Do Do | 30.90 |
1 | bed, bolster &c | 15.00 | do do | 15.00 |
1 | bed, bolster &c | 15.00 | do do | 15.00 |
3 | pots 2 ovens and 1 skillet | 2.50 | do do | 2.50 |
1 | frying pan and 3 fenders | 2.00 | do do | 2.00 |
hooks, racks and candle@@moulds | 4.00 | do do | 4.00 | |
2 | pokers and 2 pair tongs | 2.00 | do do | 2.00 |
4 | flat irons and trivit | 1.00 | do do | 1.00 |
8 | blankets | 12.00 | do do | 12.00 |
$860.90 | $836.44 |
In the Lektriever report, Nancy Comp was changed to Ann Comp throughout the report.