Hugh Jones, Chaplain of Governor Spotswood and Professor of Mathematics in the college, thus wrote of the town in 1722:
"At the Capitol, at publick times, may be seen a great
number of handsome, well dress'd, compleat Gentlemen.
And at the Governor's House upon Birth Nights, and at
Balls and Assemblies, I have seen as fine an Appearance,
as good Divertion, and as splendid Entertainments in
Governor Spotswood's time, as I have seen any where else.
"These buildings here described are justly reputed the best in all English America, and are exceeded by few of their Kind in England.
"In every part of this Town are excellent Springs of good Water, or else may be made good Wells; and the Ground falling on both Sides conveys the Water and Rain by small Channels into the Creeks; but to make the main Street exactly level, the Assembly gave a considerable Sum, which was expended in removing Earth in some places, and building a Bridge over a low Channel; so that it is now a pleasant, long, dry Walk, broad, and almost level from the College to the Capitol. Williamsburg is now incorporated and made a Market Town, and governed by a Mayor and Aldermen; and it is well stocked with rich Stores, of all Sorts of Goods, and well furnished with the best Provisions and Liquors.
"Here dwell several good Families, and more reside here in their own Houses at publick times. They live in the same neat Manner, dress after the same Modes, and behave themselves exactly as the Gentry in London; most Families of any note having a Coach, Chariot, Berlin or Chaise.
