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(I'm dedicating the next six weeks' posts to various sites in and around Williamsburg, starting with the historical colonial village itself.)
Let me begin by saying that the best way to approach any visit to an historical site is by preparing to have an "experience"--plan to leave your world and your ecpectations behind and immerse yourself in the one you are visiting. It's easy to do in Williamburg.
The colonial setting, with historical reproductions and restorations of original buildings, will take your breath away. You'll easily imagine, (or at least ask yourself) what was it like to live here . . . in this time and in this place? Now you're on your way. . .
Tour every magnificent architectural specimen--the Governor's Palace, the Court House, the homes, the gardens, shops--you'll think you remember all that great colonial history you learned in Social Studies, but you have no idea how much the guides will teach you about this cradle of America. You'll marvel over the beauty and ingenuity apparent, and the blending of elegant British architecture and English garden mazes interspersed with the rudimentary thatched colonial abodes with their functional vegetable patches.
Some of the park's employees have spent years learning about their
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You must eat at Christiana Campbell's Tavern! It was George Washington's favorite eatery in Williamsburg, and a place of great historical significance. This respite served as a gathering point where some of the first discussions over a split with England occurred, while Christiana served the organizers seafood delicacies, pot pie and pots of tea. This is a true "experience" you won't want to miss! You'll stroll through the garden, passing under arbors of wisteria boughs while listening to the baas of sheep in the pen to the right. Even the wait is worthwhile, sitting on her
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Visit the artisans shops, (be amazed at the ingenuity of the craftsman), and the gift stores, (let your children see the few simple toys the colonial children enjoyed). Grab a tri-corner hat and join in the political rhetoric going on in the Revolutionary City. Two-hour interactive programs involve you and your family in great American events like the debate over the signing of the Declaration of Independence. You're not just studying history--you're living it! Can you think of a better way to get your children to love their country, its past and its future?
There are skits and re-enactments going on all along the streets, and
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Summer is the best time for the full program, but December in Williamsburg is spectacular as well. On the Sunday of the first full weekend in December, the city hosts the Grand Illumination, the official start of the holiday season. Based loosely on the old British tradition of placing candles in windows to welcome the arrival of special guests or to herald an occasion of note, the simple candle-lighting has now grown to a full lighting extravaganza, drawing an average of 25,000 people. Click on the photo to the right to see a beautiful photo-essay by Dr. Ellen K. Rudolph. What a great way to begin the Christmas season.
So plan a trip to Williamsburg. Next week we'll tour another spot on Virginia's historic triangle!
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