President's House

The President's House is the official residence for the college president at William & Mary in Williamsburg and displays Georgian-style architecture with formal symmetry and brick construction. It sits northeast of the Wren Building on the historic campus and was originally designed with a central passage layout.

The house was built in 1732 and served as headquarters for General Cornwallis during the American Revolutionary War. After the conflict, it housed French and Continental troops before becoming the president's residence.

The residence serves as home to the college president and represents the institution's enduring commitment to housing its leadership on campus. Visitors see a building that remains an active part of daily college life.

The building sits on the open college campus where it is visible from outside, located northeast of other historic structures on the grounds. Visitors can walk the campus to view it while exploring the other significant buildings in the area.

The building is recognized as the oldest college presidential residence that remains in continuous use in the United States. Its continuous operation for over two centuries makes it an uncommon example of institutional longevity.

Location: Virginia

Part of: College of William & Mary

GPS coordinates: 37.27122,-76.70833

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:03