When we arrived back at ‘Grandma’ Vicky’s we enjoyed a fabulous southern meal with Vicky, Greg, Noah (Vicky’s son), and Amanda (Noah’s wife). It was nice to spend time with them.
The next morning we headed out to the Historic Triangle (Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown). We added one more stop – Freedom Park. It has a replica of the first free black settlement in the area. the slaves were given their freedom and places to live rent free for 10 years after their owner passed away. A lot of work was put into the replicas and creation of the place. It was fun to learn the process.
Our second stop was Jamestown – the first settlement in America in 1607. Lots to learn as we walked around the settlement. Our favorite part was the glassblowers house where we watched them make different glass pieces.
Also, we learned/were reminded that trees were a valuable commodity to England who was dealing with deforestation and couldn’t build ships and didn’t have enough trees to burn to blow glass (the fire for melting the glass is about 2,000 degrees) and more. I sometimes don’t connect all the natural resources and their value. Although, we drove by a paper mill by ‘Grandma’ Vicky’s often and saw trees being delivered there and wood chips being made.
Our third stop was Colonial Williamsburg where we simply enjoyed walking around the town that looks like it did back in the 1700s when it was the capital of Virginia. We even got to sit in the church that people like George Washington and Patrick Henry sat in. It was fun to step back in time. Claire LOVED it! (Sorry, no pictures!)
Our fourth stop was Yorktown – where the British surrendered to the colonial/US army led by George Washington in October 1781. We learned about the siege, the battle, and the help the French gave. We tried to drive the battlefield or encampment tours, but they were closed.
We drove ‘home’ a new way and stopped for food at a restaurant/bar on the way home. Matt and the kids played/learned pool. A lovely day!
Leave a Reply