This James Shields was the first of three generations of the Shields family to own and operate Shields Tavern in Williamsburg, Virginia. This tavern has been restored and is today operating under the name of Shields Tavern in Colonial Williamsburg.
By court records it is determined that he died sometime between 17 September and 19 November of that year. The inventory of his personal effects was not presented in court until January 1751.

Shields' will (dated 19 Dec. 1747) mentions his wife Anne, daughters Elizabeth and Hannah [by his first wife Elizabeth (d.1737)], son James, daughters Anne and Christiana, step daughter Judith BrayIngles; plantations at Skimino and on Mill Swamp and horses and lots in Williamsburg; slaves including Simon, Belinda, Juba; his his wagon and horses.

When Shields wrote his will he was concerned that the seat of government might be moved from Williamsburg. He bequeathed his daughters Elizabeth and Hannah L50 each Virginia currency provided not move. He bequeathed his daughters Anne and Christiana L100 each Virginia currency with the same proviso. In both cases the daughters were only to receive one-half of the stated bequest if the capital moved within 10 years-reflecting his concern that the economic future of Williamsburg might be less favorable if the capital moved further west.

Shields' unappraised inventory lists most items in the tavern by this room order: parlor, hall, upstairs, shed, bar, garden room, chamber and kitchen, upstairs, closet, cellar & c. Listed under the cellar heading are some items in the yard and/or stable, and livestock and other items at the quarters (presumably at Skimono or at Mill Swamp). Twenty-five unnamed slaves are noted but it is not possible to determine how many resided in town. The inventory indicates a well furnished tavern with sufficient rooms to occupy a building of the full size determined by recent archaeological excavations.