Prentis Store, 214 Duke of Gloucester Street, Williamsburg, Williamsburg, Virginia

Significance: The oldest original store in Williamsburg, the Prentis Store was built in 1738-1740 by William Prentis, and has more architectural elaboration than most of the commercial buildings in town. The pedimented roof facing the street is trimmed with a full modillion cornice and the eaves have a very pronounced kick which adds interest to the roof line. The roof structure is trussed, which is unusual in a building of this size. The two rooms on the first floor are presently adapted for modern commercial uses. The store was restored in 1929, with further restoration work done in 1972, by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, the owners.
Survey number: HABS VA-316
Building/structure dates: 1740 Initial Construction