| Colonial
Williamsburg Williamsburg, VA |
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| Places | Pictures | Faces | Tips | Links | Books |  |
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The most extensive restoration and reconstruction project in America, Colonial Williamsburg was the dream of the Reverend Dr. William Goodwin, who won the support and financial backing of John D. Rockefeller, Jr. in 1926. Their shared vision of rebuilding the colonial capital of Virginia and turning it into a living classroom was a huge success and millions have benefited from Dr. Goodwin's persistence and Mr. Rockefeller's generosity ($100 million worth!). It's a one-of-a-kind place. |
) Bruton
Parish Church - The first building to be restored is still in use as
a congregational meeting house. We attended a free organ concert here by
a costumed performer. |
) Raleigh
Tavern - After the House of Burgesses was dissolved, they met here secretly
to plot their sympathy boycott to aid Massachusetts. |
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) Audience
with Lord & Lady Dunmore - "It was fun meeting the Governor
and his wife in the ballroom where Felicity had a dance lesson (in her Christmas
book). Lady Dunmore sang and played a harpsichord. I curtsied to them."
--Amanda |
) Courtesy
Lessons at the Powell House - "We watched some girls practicing
their manners while waiting for supper. They sat up straight and had polite
conversation. They couldn't smile at each other." --Amanda
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) Silversmith
- "Back in 1774, people bought silver as an investment or way to
save their money. They could use silver as cash, like buying something with
a silver spoon. This man was very skilled at working with silver."
--Harrison |
) Gunsmith
- "We watched something very boring at the gunsmith shop. They
were BORING out the barrel of a rifle! It took two men, lots of time, and
a big wheel to turn the bore." --Harrison |
) Wig
Maker - "People who wore wigs had to shave their heads. The
wig maker made a wooden "blockhead" the size and shape of their
head, then made the wig to fit it. Some people powdered their hair instead
of wearing wigs. That's why powder rooms were first built in homes."
--Amanda |
) Saddle
Maker - "Since saddles last a very long time, saddle makers
also made other things to earn money. They made knife holders, gun holsters,
water buckets for putting out fires, saddle bags, leather cases and even
shoes." --Harrison and Amanda |
) Weaver
- "This man is weaving linen cloth on a big loom. The cloth has
a pattern made from a very old scrap found in Williamsburg. To put the colors
in, there has to be a separate spool that he puts through the threads on
the loom." --Amanda |
Printing
Press -" It was cool watching the printer make copies of the
Virginia Gazette. He said it takes 6 hours to set one full page of type.
In 1774 they could print about 1500 pages a day, but today they only do
about 100." --Harrison |
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Slave's
House at Carter's Grove
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Governor's
Palace
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Colonial
Living |
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Beds "Which bed would you rather sleep in? The slaves didn't have a choice. This slave bed is basically just a pile of hay with a blanket thrown on. The palace beds are draped with pretty fabrics and they are soft, clean and comfortable. It seems very unfair." --Harrison |
) Lady Dunmore's Room |
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Kitchens There is a stark contrast between cooking for survival and eating fancy food cooked in abundance by servants. The disparity between classes in the 1700s was vast. |
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) Slave's "Decorations" |
Decorations "The slaves only had harnesses for there decoration. The governor has muskets & swords for his decorations. I don't think the slave's were treated well back then".--Amanda |
) Palace Decorations |
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A
Colonial Town : Williamsburg |
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 Faces
(Click Here
for more faces) |
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Plan a lot of time! Colonial Williamsburg is a big place with lots to do. One day is definitely not enough. The first day is just learning the layout and finding out what is available. The schedule of events changes daily, so planning ahead is valuable. Get there early. The streets are empty in the morning and tours at the Palace and the Capital are less crowded then and at mealtimes. Watch the 37-minute film, "Williamsburg--The Story of a Patriot" in the visitor center. It's over 40 years old, but well done and timeless. It's a good way to get into the mood of the colonial era. Take a lunch with you, or make reservations at the taverns many days in advance. Seating is very limited. Your children may have fun dressing like kids did 250 years ago. You can plan ahead and bring your own Colonial outfits, or rent simple ones from the visitor center. |
The
Insiders' Guide to Williamsburg : Jamestown-Yorktown |
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For Younger Readers |
For Older Readers |
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PLEASE DONATE GENEROUSLY TO HELP THE VICTIMS OF HURRICANE KATRINA
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As
you can see from this huge page, we loved Colonial Williamsburg. Even
being off-season with some of the buildings closed, we spent six days
exploring this 1700s village and plantation. Amanda got into the time
travel aspect of the place and dressed up like a Colonial girl several
of the days. The setting is beautiful, the shops and craftspeople are
intriguing, the costumed villagers are friendly, and the whole experience
makes learning about this important period of American history effortless
and fun.
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Mary
Geddy's Day : A Colonial Girl in Williamsburg
