Thomas Everard House, Williamsburg

The Thomas Everard House stands as a testament to the wealth and influence of Thomas Everard, a prominent planter and civic leader in colonial Williamsburg. Constructed in 1718, it ranks among the oldest houses in the area and offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the colonial elite. The house, with its five-bay, timber-framed structure and hand-split weatherboard exterior, exudes a sense of modest elegance that reflects the architectural trends of its time.

Originally built by John Brush, the first keeper of Williamsburg's Magazine, the Everard House underwent several modifications over the centuries while retaining its essential character. Its interior is furnished with authentic 18th-century antiques, providing visitors with a window into the past. Notable features include a center-passage plan layout, indicative of fashionable architectural styles of the era, and a finely crafted staircase adorned with elaborately turned balusters and ornate carving.

Meticulously restored to its early appearance, the Everard House showcases the painstaking efforts to preserve its historical integrity. Recent restoration work has uncovered original wallpaper fragments and patches of paint, offering valuable insights into the house's original interior decor. The yard surrounding the house features original brick paving discovered during archaeological excavations, adding to its authenticity.