Historic Williamsburg

43. John Carter's Store

Williamsburg, VA

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John Carter's Store and the adjoining Unicorn's Horn on the north side of Duke of Gloucester Street were built around 1765 by brothers John Carter, a merchant, and James Carter, an apothecary and surgeon. John Carter's store was on the eastern half of the building, while Dr. James Carter's practice was on the western half. John operated the store until his death in 1793. Dr. James Carter sold his portion of the shop to his partner and brother Dr. William Carter in 1779, and the store remained open until William passed away in 1799. John Carter's store was robbed in 1770. Robberies were common occurrences during this time period, and after burglaries at both the Carter Store and nearby Scrivener Store, Purdie and Dixon's Gazette ran a story about the incident and suggested that the city leaders put together a group of watchmen who could guard buildings and prevent crime. The building was used as a private residence and store between 1801 and 1830, and as a store from 1835 to 1850. The firm of Vest and Hansford occupied the building from 1851 until it was destroyed by fire in December 1859.