Page 132 - The Hunt - Spring 2021

TRAVELER
SETTING THE STANDARD SINCE 1978
of the historic area and was able to convince members of the Rockefeller family to lead the effort. At first, they did so largely in secret, buying many properties quietly so prices wouldn’t wildly increase.
Once the initial purchases were completed, many newer buildings were destroyed (including some from the 19th century) and a historical area was created. Running its length are two parallel streets with a greensward in the middle, somewhat resembling a college campus. A few existing colonial buildings were restored, some were moved from other locations, and others were completely rebuilt with historical accuracy in mind. While the exterior and interiors may look—or even be—authentic, many buildings have electricity, rest rooms, and heating and cooling.
Today, Colonial Williamsburg is comprised of some 500 buildings, 88 of them deemed “original.” A visit of a few days may involve coming into contact with only a dozen or so. Chief among these are the Capitol (a replica of the 1705 original) and the Governor’s Palace. There’s also the reconstructed Wren Building on the College of William & Mary campus, which abuts the western end of the historic area. At the visitor’s center, you can buy tickets for guided or unguided tours and watch a short film about the old town.
Families with children tend to flock to the buildings that house the workshops, where craftspeople in period costumes labor as they would have 300 years ago. Colonial Williamsburg was built with slave labor, and many activities and events recognize the contributions of both slaves and freed Blacks during the 1700s. While there’s an entry fee for most buildings, anyone can stroll the vast common area. Finally, the four colonial taverns are popular eating and drinking establishments.
Williamsburg is also known for the modern amenities of its resort area. There
are four hotels—including the Williamsburg Lodge and Williamsburg Inn—plus limited opportunities for lodging in the historic section. In the “border zone” around Merchants Square, the historic area joins with the modern town and the college. Here you’ll find a variety of modern shops, restaurants, grocers and bookstores, all easily walkable from the lodges—no matter what century you happen to be walking in at the time.
Complete design services and fine craftsmanship Custom barns, arenas, garages, and living quarters
130 THE HUNT MAGAZINE spring 2021
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