In 1678, one of the most significant manors in Virginia was constructed by Christopher Robinson (1645-1692/3. This home was the gathering place for many of the important families of Virginia who helped shape the colony into the state it eventually became. Members of the Wormeley, Beverley, and Braxton families would often come to Hewick to discuss the affairs of the colony.
Born in this house was the son of Christopher I, John Robinson (1683-1749), who was named acting Governor of Virginia in 1749 upon the departure of Governor Gooch to England. His son, Christopher Robinson II (1703-1738), upon inheriting the estate, renamed the plantation Hewick, for the ancestral home in England. His brother was the Honorable John Robinson (1704-1766), Treasurer of Virginia. Speaker of the House of Burgesses in Williamsburg for seven sessions (1738-1765). Carter Braxton (1736-1797), a signer of the Declaration of Independence, married Judith Robinson, granddaughter of the founder.
Sir John Beverley Robinson (1791-1863), probably the most distinguished Canadian of the 19th century, was a descendant of Christopher Robinson of Middlesex Co., VA.
Hewick has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 7/18/78, and the Virginia Landmarks Register of Historic Places. N-45, Middlesex Co., Rte. 17, 3.1 miles n.w. of Saluda.
An article can be found in The William and Mary Quarterly, in Volume One - Series Two, Beginning on Page 134, 1921.CHRISTOPHER ROBINSON, ONE OF THE FIRST Trustees OF WILLIAM AND MARY COLLEGE HIS HOME, "HEWICK ON THE RAPPAHANNOCK."
A few "Robinson" family crests printed on parchment paper are still available for $7.00 + $3.70 s/h email, write or call Helen to order.
As of January 5th, 2005, Hewick is now a private home not open to the public. It has been sold to a new owner for his family compound, he is not a Robinson descendant, however he will be restoring the grounds with loving care!
Helen Battleson will continue to host the Robinson Family Mailing List on Rootsweb and Ancestry.com. She will continue to help Robinson descendants through her vast database of Robinson's. Please sign up at:
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The Hon. Christopher Robinson of "Hewick", in Virginia