Preserving Colonial History - Williamburgh, VA

Williamsburg was the thriving capital of Virginia, when America was taking shape. From 1699 to 1780, Williamsburg was the political, cultural and educational center of the American colonies.

Today, Colonial Williamsburg is the world’s largest living history museum and part of a 301-acre historic district. It contains several hundred restored or re-created 17th, 18th and 19th century buildings with costumed staff as guides. The historic restoration of the area was championed by Dr. W.A.R. Goodwin with financial support of Standard oil heir and philanthropist John D. and Abby Aldrich Rockefeller. The museum features iconic sites, working tradespeople, historic taverns and art museums.

Here is what caught my eye; I hope you enjoy!

The Governor’s Palace was the first official residence of the royal governors of the Colony of Virginia. The main house burned down in 1781 and was reconstructed in the 1930’s

Some of the colonial style buildings

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Colonial Houses: The Historic Homes of Williamsburg

By Howard, Hugh

Insiders' Guide® to Williamsburg: And Virginia's Historic Triangle (Insiders' Guide Series)

By Corbett, Susan

Colonial Williamsburg: The Guide: The Official Companion to the Historic Area

By The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

Horse and colonial carriage

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Spring tulips

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There is no right or wrong way to explore Williamsburg, take it at your own pace.

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Today, Colonial Williamburgh includes 85% of the area of the capital as it was in the 18th century.

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Picturesque red barn

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An 18th century style military tents display

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The historic area is approximately one mile long and a little more than a half mile wide.

The Colonel John Taylor House was built in 1750

The original capitol building completed in 1705, as a two-story H-shaped structure connecting two building by an arcade. Each wing served one of the two houses of the Virginia legislature, the Council and the House of Burgesses.

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More of the Governor’s Palace

What you should know:

• There is no cost to walk in Colonial Williamsburg.

• House and attraction admission can be purchased online or at the Visitors Center.

• There are public restrooms.

• You could spend a couple of hours to an entire day exploring here.

• There is on the street parking, some metered and some free.

• Parking in-season may be difficult.

• People are friendly and helpful.

• Check the website for any special events.

• The historic district is closed to car traffic.

• They offer hop-on/hop-off shuttle buses.

• There are quite a few nearby restaurant options.

For more information: Colonial Williamsburg