James A. Fields House

The James A. Fields House is a two-story red brick structure with Renaissance Revival design, featuring an entrance tower, low pitched hipped roof, and tall two-over-two windows. The residence displays refined details characteristic of this architectural style and sits in a residential neighborhood in Newport News.

Built in 1897, the house was the residence of James A. Fields, Virginia's first Black judicial officer who graduated from Hampton University in 1871. Fields played a key role in shaping legal structures and public service in Virginia during this transformative period.

The building temporarily served as Whittaker Memorial Hospital, the first medical facility for Black residents in Newport News during the early 1900s. This conversion of a private home into a healing space reflects how the community adapted the structure to meet urgent public needs.

The residence is located on 27th Street and remains a private home with limited access, though it can be viewed from public areas. Visitors can photograph the exterior and appreciate the architecture from the street.

Fields operated his law practice from this residence while also teaching legal theories to young Black students. This combination of home, professional office, and educational space made the residence a hub for legal development and learning in the community.

Location: Newport News

Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 36.98470,-76.42190

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:07