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Robert Carter Nicholas
- Born 1728
- Graduate of College of William & Mary
- Able lawyer
- Served 10 years as burgess
- Died 1780
Conservative Virginia patriot
Robert Carter Nicholas, like Speaker Peyton Randolph, Edmund Pendleton, and George Wythe, was one of Virginia's conservative patriots. A graduate of the College of William and Mary and an able lawyer, Nicholas served for 10 years as a burgess before becoming treasurer of the colony in 1766. Nicholas helped draft the resolutions of the House of Burgesses against the proposed Stamp Act in 1764, but opposed the "young hot, and giddy members" who supported Patrick Henry's Stamp Act resolves in May, 1765.
Introduced resolution for June 1 day of fasting and prayer
Nicholas introduced the resolution of May 23, 1774, setting aside June 1 as a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer in sympathy with embargoed Boston. He is also remembered for trying to prevent premature violence in March, 1775, by opposing Patrick Henry's resolution to raise 10,000 regulars "for the duration." Although Nicholas was never an advocate of independence, his legal skill and unquestioned integrity led to his appointment to the Court of Chancery in January 1778.
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Telling the story of colonial women.
Kristen Spivey reveals some surprises about 18th-century women and their role in history. March 6, 2006
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Carolyn Wilson on Interpreting an American Lady
Carolyn Wilson talks about her passion for what it means to be an American citizen and her love for interpreting Betty Randolph in Colonial Williamsburg's Historic Area. August 15, 2005
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The Declaration of Independence
Hear the words that were catalyst to the Revolution, read by Bill Barker, Colonial Williamsburg's Thomas Jefferson. July 2, 2007
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No Master Over Me
A man purchases his enslaved family to set them free. James Ingram shares the tale. February 4, 2008
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Founders or Traitors
Not all colonists were ready to follow their leaders into revolution. Interpreters Steve Holloway and John Hamant debate in character as John Adams and Benjamin Franklin. December 3, 2007
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Tempted to Enlist
The prospect of ready money tempted many middling men to enlist. Bryan Simpers and Bereni New interpret the Hoys at Colonial Williamsburg. July 30, 2007
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