Built in 1770, the Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens is the only structure in Wilmington, North Carolina, from the Colonial era that is open to the public. Constructed on the ballast stone walls of the former city jail (circa 1744), the house retains many vestiges of its previous incarnation, such as outdoor and sub-basement jail cells and a freestanding kitchen house with a massive hearth replete with period cooking utensils.

Operated as a museum house, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to view a fine example of Georgian architecture and experience what life was like during pre-Revolutionary Wilmington. The house and kitchen are fully furnished with 18th- and 19th-century antiques and artifacts. Guided tours include the stories of the people who lived and worked here as well as the women’s organization that saved this landmark from the wrecking ball. Occupying an acre, the Colonial-style gardens consist of seven distinct areas, including an orchard with pomegranate and fig trees, a kitchen garden, and a rose garden.