Grissell Hay

Birth date unknown
Wife of apothecary Peter Hay
Widowed in 1766
Died 1778

Grissell Hay was the wife of the apothecary Peter Hay. Widowed in 1766, she sold some of his estate at public auction and turned their home into a lodging house. An advertisement in the "Virginia Gazette" of February 18, 1768, announced, "I take this method to inform the public, that I have very commodious lodgings to let for a dozen gentlemen, and their servants, with stables and provisions for their horses, and shall be much obliged to those who will favour me with their company."

Grissell Hay died in May 1778.

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Apothecary

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For What Ails You

For poxes, headaches, and fevers, the apothecary has a preparation to ease your symptoms. Medical historian Susan Pryor details the treatments. May 19, 2008

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Caring for the Mentally Ill

Williamsburg's Public Hospital was the first facility for the treatment of the mentally ill in British North America. June 11, 2007

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The Cherokee Nation

The modern Cherokee Nation is enjoying a renaissance in language and culture. Living History Demonstrator Paula Nelson shares the resurgence. November 16, 2009

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Whiskey and beer are the safe alternatives to water in colonial Virginia. Historic Foodways' Frank Clark describes the benefits of brewing. November 9, 2009

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