Page:Bruton parish church restored and its historic environments (1907 V2).djvu/36

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By whom it was built is not known, but for many years it was the home of the Galts, vestrymen of Bruton Parish Church, and doctors, through successive generations, in charge of the Eastern State Hospital, which was established by the House of Burgesses in 1769, and is the oldest institution for the exclusive care of the insane in America.

The Galts were also prominent in the Masonic Fraternity, whose delapidated ancient temple, where the first Grand Lodge of Virginia was organized, stands further up on the same side of the street.


Tazewell Hall

Until recently, the home of Sir John Randolph, Speaker of the House of Burgesses, and of Edmund Randolph, Attorney-General during Washington's administration, stood at the head of England Street, to the south of the Powder Horn. The house has been turned around, and now faces the east.


Other Points of Interest


Raleigh Tavern

The site of the old Raleigh Tavern, now occupied by the store of L. W. Lane & Son, is of interest, as it was here that the Burgesses frequently met, after the House was dissolved by Lord Dunmore, and acted upon many of the most important measures culminating in the Revolution. Bruton Parish Church was doubtless called in those days to counteract many influences which proceeded from this famous resort, where the genial freedom of colonial life gave vent to itself in excesses which often called for repentance.


The Six Chimney Lot

On the grounds of the Eastern State Hospital, where now stands the brick Custis kitchen, once stood the home