Historic Williamsburg

21. St George Tucker House

Williamsburg, VA

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The St. George Tucker House was the home of St. George Tucker and his sizable family. Tucker, who was a Revolutionary War officer, College of William and Mary law professor and judge, was born in Bermuda. He purchased three lots from Governor Edmund Randolph in 1788. Tucker's purchase included the former home of theater owner William Levingston as well as the theater itself, which was the first playhouse in America. The 1716 house was the largest structure on the property. It was only a story and a half tall, with four rooms. Tucker moved the structure to Nicholson Street and faced it toward Market Square. St. George Tucker was married twice. His household eventually consisted of nine children and five stepchildren, as well as himself, his wife and the housekeeper. He evidently had a sense of humor. In one of his writings, "Garrison Articles to be Observed by the Officers and Privates Stationed at Ft. St. George Tucker in Williamsburg," he refers to himself as fort commander. As his family grew, Tucker added on to the house. It eventually became a two-story home with east and west wings, a covered walkway to the kitchen, and a functional cellar. Charles F.E. Minnigerode, a German political refugee and William and Mary Professor, was a friend of St. George Tucker's son Nathaniel Beverley Tucker. While visiting the home in 1842, he put the first Christmas tree in Williamsburg in the parlor for Nathaniel's children. The house was restored to its colonial appearance between 1930 and 1931, and the Tucker descendants continued living in the house until 1993. The St. George Tucker House is now used as a reception center where Foundation donors who contribute over $100 can attend special programs and events. It is not open for tours.