Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg is the historic district of the independent city of Williamsburg, Virginia. Colonial Williamsburg consists of many of the buildings that comprised the original colonial capital of Williamsburg in James City County from 1699 to 1780.

Related Topics:
Independent city - Williamsburg, Virginia - Colonial - James City County - 1699 - 1780

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Early in the 20th century, the restoration of Colonial Williamsburg, one of the largest historic restorations ever undertaken, was championed by the Reverend Dr. W.A.R. Goodwin and John D. Rockefeller, Jr., who wanted to celebrate the patriots and the early history of the United States.

Related Topics:
W.A.R. Goodwin - John D. Rockefeller, Jr.

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Some of the structures from the Colonial period have been reconstructed on their original sites. Many other structures have been restored to their original 18th century appearances. Many other historic buildings were demolished to return the district to an approximation of its earlier appearance. Of the approximately 500 buildings in the historic area, 88 are original. Most buildings are open for tourists to look through. Interpreters work, dress, and talk as they did in the era, teaching visitors more about the site. Colonial Williamsburg is owned and operated (as a living museum) by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, and is not directly affiliated with the nearby Colonial National Historical Park.

Related Topics:
18th century - Interpreters - Living museum - Colonial National Historical Park

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A main source of tourism to Williamsburg, Virginia, visitors can witness a treelined 1930s interpretation of a Colonial American City with exhibits including authentic colonial homes, American Revolutionary War history exhibits, and the town jail, which includes an authentic stocks and pillory display.

Related Topics:
Williamsburg, Virginia - Colonial America - American Revolutionary War - Stocks - Pillory

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