27. THE LAST STATEHOUSE

THE recommendation to move the capital, as was the case with earlier proposals of a similar nature, was not accepted. Later, royal instructions provided for the rebuilding of Jamestown. Eventually, normal functions were resumed and a statehouse—the last for Jamestown—was erected.

[December 4, 1685]

By the House of Burgesses.

Ordered

That MR Auditor Bacon [Nathaniel Bacon, Senior] pay to Col Philip Ludwell fouer hundred pounds Sterl out of the moneys accruing from the duty of three pence per gallon upon liquors, for and in consideration of rebuilding the state house,¹ upon payment of which money Mr Auditor is desired to take bond from Col. Ludwel for the full compleating of the said house, in such manner, as shall be fully satisfactory to his Excellency, the Councel and the house of Burgesses, answerably good and equivalent to the condition for the same.

His Excellencies and the Councels concurrence here is desired by the house

Test Robert Beverley Clerk Assembly

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¹ The foundations of this structure are visible at Jamestown today.

Resolved by the house, that the room in the state house, called the Porch Chamber be kept and approporiated an office for the Clerk of the Assembly and that Robert Beverley the present Clerk take possession thereof and therein lodge and place all Records, Books and Papers belonging to the Assembly, which either now are or for the time to come shall be committed to his charge, keeping or custody.

Ordered that this resolve of the house be sent to his Excellency & the Councel with the requests of his house for their concurrence therein.

Proposed by the house, that the lower room in the state house opposite to the Court house room be with all possible expedition fitted for the secretaries office in such manner, as his Excellency and the Councel shal direct, and this House doe pray his Excellency will please to Command and direct the doing thereof, and that the Honorable Col Ludwel be treated with about it.

Legislative Journals of the Council of Colonial Virginia

Last Modified: Thurs, Sep 11 2003 10:00:00 pm PST source/5/sb5ab.htm