Department 56 - Taliaferro-Cole House

Size: 6 x 7 x 7.5

 

Coachmaker Charles Taliaferro purchased property on Duke of Gloucester Street in the early 1770s. The lot had several buildings on it, including the house, shop, kitchen, smokehouse, stable, and laundry plus gardens. This seemed to reflect the plantation arrangement in smaller scale.

 

Taliaferro practiced his trade in Williamsburg for more than 30 years as well as operating a brewery and a warehouse, hiring out boats, and selling food and supplies to outfit ships. In the early 1800s, Jesse Cole acquired the house and shop next door, where he operated a post office and general store.

 

Today, this distinctive dwelling is used as a private residence owned by The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Department 56 has carefully replicated the famous Williamsburg holiday decor which features wreaths and garlands in the Della Robbia style. Hand sculpted and hand painted wreaths and window trim have colorful touches, bringing a unique look to this Village.

 

Coordinates with: 4018972 "Caroling In Williamsburg"