818 East Marshall Street
Richmond, VA, USA

National Register of Historic Places - John Marshall House

Statement of Significant:

The John Marshall House was the home of "The Great Chief Justice" for 45 years. During his distinguished judicial career, sessions of the Court were so spaced that Marshall was able to spend much of his time at this building in Richmond. Many of his important opinions were undoubtedly written here.

History
For 45 years this was the home of "the Great Chief Justice," John Marshall. Built in 1790, just as Marshall was emerging as leader of the Federalist party in Virginia, the house served as his home until the end of his judicial career. Marshall remained in Washington much of the time during his few years in Congress and in President John Adams' cabinet. After he became Chief Justice, he was able to spend more time at home. Altogether his judicial duties, in Washington and on circuit in Richmond and Raleigh, consumed an average of less than six months a year. Most of his remaining time was spent in Richmond, many of his important opinions undoubtable were written at home, and on innumerable occasions he hosted distinguished leaders in all branches of American life. No other site is so closely associated with this giant of American jurists.