Sunday, September 23, 2007

Colonial Williamsburg

This is our last morning in Williamsburg. The city of Williamsburg currently houses about 12,000 residents and the prestigious College of William & Mary. Within the modern city is the historic district, which consists of old buildings, shops, etc., that are open to anyone. Adjacent to the historic district is Colonial Williamsburg, an area that houses more old buildings, shops, pubs, etc., and is operated as a "living history" museum. Interpreters play various roles and do presentations about the colonial era in the USA. One has to pay to get into Colonial Williamsburg. Dave and I found that we were able to see and do everything we wanted to do in the colonial section in one day.

Below are a few photos that I took during our visit. These are a preview of a two-week display that will be hosted on my photo blog. Go there every day between now and October 7 to see more of Colonial Williamsburg's attractions.

First photo: an 18th century harpsichord that was housed in the governor's mansion.

Second photo: people can use 18th century modes of transportation, i.e., walk on foot or ride via horse and buggy.

Third photo: A public notice board reminds visitors that much of colonial Virginia's wealth was generated by the labor of slaves, indentured servants and apprentice tradesmen.

Fourth photo: A fiddler plays 18th century tunes for visitors seeking refreshment in Shields Tavern.

Colonial Williamsburg is worth visiting if you've never been there, but it is expensive unless, like Dave and I, you get free tickets. Once you've been there, however, there probably is little need for repeated visits (although I have a cousin who comes back every couple of years). I went there with my parents when I was a teenager, so this was my second visit. If I wait another 34 years before going again, I'll be in my 80s. I'll see what happens before making any plans for that one.

2 comments:

Stephen said...

Sounds like a great place to visit. We enjoy visiting these kinds of places that contain living history.
The summer we met up with you in the Maritimes, we went on to the historic site of Louisburg on Cape Breton Island. It was an amazing restoration of a 1700's fortress built by New France. We enjoyed it so much despite the monsoon rain we experienced that day.

Barbara said...

sounds like a wonderful place and a great holiday you had.