Williamsburg

Referred to as Virginia’s Historic Triangle are the colonial towns of Yorktown, Williamsburg and Jamestown. An interesting way to begin to understand the history of this area is to visit these three significant towns, all part of the Colonial National Historical Park, located on a peninsula between the James and York Rivers, and connected by the beautiful and scenic Colonial Parkway. Colonial Williamsburg is one of our nation’s treasures and certainly one of the highlights of a visit to the Mid-Atlantic States. After you have toured Richmond, it is but a short drive to reach Williamsburg, first on I-64 and then south on Route 199. First settled in 1633 and known as Middle Plantation, it was the capital of the state and the social and cultural center for over 80 years. Thereafter, Thomas Jefferson moved the capital to Richmond, where it remains today. Williamsburg, whose visitors’ center is near the Governor’s Palace (757-220-7645), has been restored to closely resemble the 18th-century town as it originally existed. There are more than 80 buildings on this 301 acre living museum, from the 18th and 19th centuries while others have been rebuilt on original sites. Among these are public buildings and numerous shops, taverns, homes, and gardens, all now open to visitors. Trades are demonstrated as they were originally practiced and interpreters of the history of Williamsburg are dressed in period costume, making the past come alive with their interesting dialogue on life in the 18th century. The village has numerous events, both during the day and into the evening, which are suitable for young and old alike. In addition to touring the historic area, especially the Capitol, the Governor’s Palace, the DeWitt Wallace Gallery, and the Bruton Parish Church, you should visit the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Center. (757-220-7645)At the heart of the town of Williamsburg is the College of William & Mary, one of America’s finest academic institutions since it was founded more than three hundred years. Many of the students who attend this college get involved in the reenactment of history as staged throughout Williamsburg.