How Has Williamsburg Virginia’s History Shaped Its Present?

Williamsburg, Virginia, is one of the oldest cities in the United States and has a long and fascinating history. Established in 1632 by the English settlers, Williamsburg was Virginia’s capital for over 80 years and for three decades was even the capital of the newly formed United States of America. For that reason, the city has some of the strongest ties to the Colonial Era and many of its architecture, economy, and traditions reflect this time period. While some of these have since changed throughout its history, many are still evident today. In this article, we’ll explore how Williamsburg’s past has shaped its present.

Colonial Architecture

One of the most recognizable features of Williamsburg is its abundance of colonial-era architecture. From the brick sidewalks to the horse-drawn carriages, Williamsburg captures a certain charm and romanticism when sent back to the times of America’s early settlers. According to HistoricWilliamsburg.org, the city of Williamsburg has “more than 400 restored or reconstructed buildings from this period” and is home to some of America’s oldest surviving buildings. The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation has preserved a large portion of the city’s original historical structures, making it one of the most iconic representations of 18th-century architecture in the world. The most well-known is likely The Governor’s Palace, a Georgian-style mansion that was originally built in 1722 as the official residence of Virginia’s royal governor From its stunning period rooms to its beautifully landscaped gardens, it offers a snapshot into the greatest architectural achievements of the early American colonists. The palace has since become a beloved landmark and one of America’s most visited historical sites. The foundation has since also restored over 70 major buildings in and around historic Colonial Williamsburg. Perhaps one of the most impressive of all is the Bruton Parish Church, which was built between 1678 and 1683 and is one of America’s oldest surviving churches. Its original stained glass window still stands today, along with an original Altar by London craftsmen and a chandelier given by Queen Anne in 1713. Other important restorations include The Courthouse, Capitol, Magazine, Treasurer’s Office, Tyler Pottery, Smith’s Tavern, Peyton Randolph House, Place House and Custis Square.

Colonial Lifestyle & Traditions

In addition to its arcitecture,Williamsburg has also kept many colonial traditions alive over centuries. From classic colonial cuisine to traditional colonial dress, many of these old habits are still the norm today. According to Colonial Williamsburg, there was a distinctive lifestyle in 18th-century America, marked by large families, passionate loyalty to their respective colony, as well as a rigid family structure based largely on class. This lifestyle can still be seen in much of Williamsburg today. Families are still closely knit and there’s a strong sense of community among residents. Additionally, much of the city’s traditional cuisine still remains popular today. Dishes such as pulled pork BBQ, Brunswick stew and hoecakes are all traditional recipes from colonial times that are still enjoyed by Williamsburg residents and visitors alike today. Sightings of traditional 18th-century dress can also be found throughout Williamsburg. From bonnets to breeches and waistcoats to aprons, costumes from the period are still worn as both formal and informal attire — especially during Colonial Williamsburg’s reenactments, which take place during different times throughout the year.

Industry & Economy

Williamsburg is currently known for being an affluent community with a strong economy, but like all cities it has gone through periods of economic highs and lows. In Colonial times, it was known as an important port town thanks to its access to the James River which made it easier to transport goods and resources to other places on the east coast. According to Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Library, industries in Williamsburg during this time included shipbuilding, barrel-making, silversmiths and hat-making. There was also a thriving tobacco trade — tobacco being one of the colony’s major cash crops — which was exported to other colonies in America and overseas markets such as England and Spain. Today, while traditional colonial industries have since been replaced with more modern businesses such as tourism and education, the city’s ports continue to serve as an important hub for industrial goods and services — including oil and gas export businesses — making it an integral part of Hampton Roads’ economy. Additionally, tourism remains one of its largest sources of revenue with millions flocking to Colonial Williamsburg every year for exhibits about Colonial history or for one of its many festivals

Conclusion

Williamsbrug, Virginia has certainly survived some major changes throughout its history — from larger-than-expected floods to major economic downturns — but it still remains true to its Colonial roots Museum Historic restoration throughout much of downtown depicts what life may have been like almost 300 years ago while cultural events such as the Craft Fair or Fife & Drum Corps show allow guests to experience life in Colonial times first hand Truly preserving its past while simultaneously looking towards to future Williamsburg remains a timeless city with a fascinating history that continues to shape its present.