Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg

Life in Colonial Williamsburg
Trina Bissonette
ANT 101: Cultural Anthropology
Dr. Daniel Beteta Jr.

August 11, 2007

Life in Colonial Williamsburg
From 1700 to 1780, Williamsburg was the center of every sphere of Virginian life. As the only city in the colony, it attracted to it the most enterprising tradesmen, the most skillful professional men, and the most talented artists. As the seat of William and Mary College, it was the focus of philosophic, religious, humanistic, and scientific thought. As the meeting place of the Colonial Assembly, it witnessed the development of the great ideals whose ferment yet leavens our national consciousness. For these reasons, the study of the history of Williamsburg is in truth an examination of many of the bases upon which our social, cultural, and political structure rests. (Carl, 1990)
Colonial Williamsburg covers one hundred and seventy three demesnes with five hundred original and cautiously reconstructed public buildings, private homes, taverns and shops. Ninety acres of gardens and public greens add to the beauty of your surroundings. Stop and talk with the costumed historians, many demonstrating historic trades and crafts. Nearby is the College of William and Mary. Chartered by the British Crown in 1693, William and Mary is the nation's second oldest university. Presidents Jefferson, Monroe and Tyler were educated there. Classes are still held in the Wren Building, the oldest academic structure in continuous use in America. Within minutes of Williamsburg are Jamestown, Yorktown, Busch Gardens, Water Country USA, Williamsburg Winery, Norfolk and Newport News. The Williamsburg area is "plantation country." Step back in history and experience what everyday life was like for America's aristocracy. Berkeley Plantation is the site of the first official Thanksgiving in 1619 and birthplace of Benjamin Harrison. Evelyn ton Plantation is the home of Edmond Ruffin, who fired the first shot in the Civil War....

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