Public Records Office

        After the Capitol was gutted by fire in 1747, the legislators decided to provide for “the Preservation of the Public Records and Papers" by housing them in a separate building, an example followed in other colonies. The one story building, without basement, was constructed with a view to safety. The sloping chimney caps, designed to prevent downdrafts in the flues; the plastered window jambs and interior partitions of brick; and the masonry floor all reflect the builders' fear of fire. The hip roof is characteristic of public buildings in the eighteenth century. A fine, pedimented doorway in rubbed brick adds dignity to the façade. The rounded front steps, similar in design to others in Williamsburg, are of blue Shrewsbury stone. The building served as the office of the secretary of the colony until the capital was moved to Richmond in 1780. The Court of Admiralty and the City of Williamsburg used it for a time, and the building later became an adjunct of the Williamsburg Grammar School. By 1855 it had been transferred to private ownership. The frame wing at the rear of the building is modern. This building now is used for historic exhibitions.

• What makes a good museum exhibit?

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