Archive for April, 2010
Be Part of the American Revolution in Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg, VA is truly a living history museum, offering visitors a chance to step back into 18th century America. With dozens of restored historic buildings, you immediately feel like a time traveler as you walk thru town.
Yet it’s the re-enactments and Colonial tradesmen that provide a real glimpse at what life was like when the idea of America was born.
A special re-enactment - Revolutionary City® - tells the story of the transformation of Americans. Subjects include everything from a distant monarch to citizens of a self-governing nation. Woven throughout is the story of African Americans and their ongoing struggles for freedom and independence.
This year’s reenactment features some new scenes, as well, including one that dramatizes the reaction of Williamsburg residents to the imposition of the Stamp Tax.
Every day, from 3 to 5 pm, weather permitting, the east end of the Colonial Williamsburg Historic District is turned into a special street theater where the events of the Revolution play out. Visitors will be invited to join in as the stories of everyday life in 18th century Williamsburg are brought to life.
On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, “The Collapse of Royal Government,” chronicles the years from 1765 to 1776 during which Great Britain’s King George III and Parliament attempt to tighten controls over their unruly colonies in North America but only succeed in driving them into rebellion.
“Citizens at War,” on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, details the trials and tribulations that Virginians faced from July 1776 to October 1781 as the War for Independence changes their lives and the world they have always known.
“Building a Nation” on Mondays explores the lives of residents and prominent visitors to Williamsburg and their contributions to the founding of the new nation.
For more on Colonial Williamsburg and nearby Busch Gardens Williamsburg theme park, visit www.historicwilliamsburgusa.com.
Everyone Loves History in Historic Williamsburg
Who says history can’t be fun for kids and adults alike!
Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area offers a unique opportunity to step back more than 220 years to the eve of the American Revolution. As the nation’s largest living history museum, Williamsburg’s 301 acres includes 500 buildings, homes, stores and taverns all reconstructed and restored to their 18th century appearance. Yet it’s the people of Williamsburg who truly bring the incredible history to life for all to enjoy.
You’ll find tradesmen practicing 30 historic trades and domestic crafts; historical interpreters ready to answer your questions; character actors portraying critical events in our nation’s development; and 90 acres of gardens. It’s all part of Colonial Williamsburg.
From tours of the historic buildings and battlefields to the live action drama, Revolutionary CityTM, Williamsburg provides an amazing opportunity to explore America’s rich history in a fun and interactive way. There’s also the rest of the area’s historic triangle, including Historic Jamestowne, where John Smith and company established the first permanent English colony in the New World, and Historic Yorktown where the Revolutionary War’s more decisive battle was fought.
If the history starts getting old for the younger crowd, Williamsburg is also home to big thrills and modern day fun. You can ride world-class roller coasters at nearby Busch Gardens Williamsburg. The European themed park offers up 350 acres of fun-filled rides, attractions, animal shows and live entertainment. Or for those hot summer days, you can take the whole family to cool off at Water Country USA, the mid-Atlantic’s largest water park.
With so much history and present day thrills and excitement, it’s no wonder Williamsburg remains one of America’s favorite destinations. You can find out more about discount Williamsburg family vacation packages at www.HistoricWilliamsburgUSA.com. Or go to www.WestgateReservations to see how you can save on Williamsburg hotel and resort accommodations including beautiful Westgate Historic Williamsburg Resort.
