Using the old jail as the foundation, the Burgwin-Wright House was built in 1770 by John Burgwin, planter, merchant, and treasurer of the colony of Carolina. In 1781, “the most considerable house in town” was occupied by Lord Cornwallis as his headquarters shortly before his defeat and surrender at Yorktown, Virginia. In 1799, Joshua Grainger Wright purchased the house for 3,500 Spanish-milled dollars. Occupied as a residence until 1937, it was bought by The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in the state of North Carolina.

Today, the beautifully restored Burgwin-Wright House is the oldest museum house in Southeastern North Carolina. Visitors will enjoy the fine detail of the Georgian-style architecture, the 18th and early 19th century furnishings, and stories of the people who have lived in this house. The house is graced by a formal – or parterre – garden, a terraced garden, and an orchard, all featuring appropriate plants and trees. This charming property creates a link with the past and is an excellent example of a colonial gentleman’s town residence. Behind this fine colonial home, there is a free-standing building that houses the kitchen and a craft room. In the kitchen, open hearth demonstrations of colonial cooking are presented during special events.

For current admission rates, please call.

Tickets for all three house museums in Wilmington—the Latimer House, the Bellamy Mansion, and the Burgwin-Wright House—are available for $24 from any of the museums.

Hours
Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m to 4 p.m.
The tours begin on the hour with the last tour beginning at 3 p.m.