Marcus White BHHS

04/10/2025

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03/08/2025

02/20/2025

Norfolk History Spotlight: The Taylor-Whittle House

Located in the heart of the Freemason District, the Taylor-Whittle House (c. 1791) is one of Norfolk’s oldest surviving residences. This Federal-style home was originally built for Richard Taylor, a prominent local merchant. In the 19th century, it passed into the hands of the Whittle family, whose members played significant roles in Virginia’s legal and political history.

The house is a rare example of early Norfolk architecture, featuring Flemish bond brickwork, original woodwork, and a beautifully preserved garden. It survived both the British bombardment of Norfolk in 1776 and the city’s devastating 19th-century fires, making it a true relic of Norfolk’s past.

Today, the Taylor-Whittle House stands as a reminder of the city’s rich history, offering a glimpse into early American life in one of Norfolk’s most historic neighborhoods.