Founded in 1632, Williamsburg was the first — and, for a long time, the only — municipality in Virginia, making it the political, educational, and social center of the largest and wealthiest of the 13 colonies. In 1699, Williamsburg succeeded in Jamestown, the first permanent English-speaking settlement in the New World, as Virginia’s Colonial Capital. Here, the ideas of representative government took shape. Here, many of the leaders of the new American republic learned their statecraft. And nearby in Yorktown, independence was won.
Today, the City of Williamsburg is an independent city with an estimated population of approximately 15,550, as of 2021. Williamsburg sits along Interstate 64 corridor midway between Richmond and Norfolk/Virginia Beach — at the center of the Eastern Virginia region, which has a population of more than 2.5 million.
Our Pillar Institutions
The City of Williamsburg is home to the second oldest college in the U.S., William & Mary, and the world’s largest living history museum, Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
William & Mary, founded in 1693, is a premier public research university that is widely recognized for its outstanding academic reputation, beautiful campus and vibrant community. As a “Public Ivy” — one of only eight in the nation — William & Mary offers a world-class education at an exceptional value.
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is a 301-acre outdoor history museum with more than 600 original and reconstructed houses, outbuildings, shops, taverns, and public buildings. Known worldwide for its preservation and interpretation of the nation’s founding, Colonial Williamsburg is the City’s largest taxpayer and tourism driver.
August 31, 2024
Politico
Colonial Williamsburg: Black History MonthJoin us in February for Black History Month as we shine an even brighter light on our year-round African American programming. Discover these American... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg: Judith and DanielJudith and Daniel, an enslaved couple, anxiously await their reunion after a year apart. Learn the tragic story of their separation and why this happy... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg: Black History Month at Campbell's TavernCelebrate Black History Month with a thoughtfully curated dinner menu at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern. Inspired by African American influences on Co... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg: All Things Are PossibleMeet with Robert Carter III, who in 1791 owned more enslaved people than any other Virginian. His inner struggles and new-found faith will lead him to... Read More
Nation Builders Discuss SlaveryJoin two Nation Builders to discuss how they viewed the complicated tragedy that was the institution of slavery. Speak with the Nation Builders, and t... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg: Black Artists and Artisans TourEnjoy a guided tour of the exhibit “I made this”: Works by Black Artists and Artisans.... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg: Measure of a Man’s WorthIt is June, 1776. For the last 11 months, the Rebels have occupied the Governor's Palace, safeguarding its treasures while the war raged throughout N... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg: Quilting DIY CraftDiscover the story of Emma Russell, quilter, and enjoy a mini-quilting project.... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg: Presidents’ WeekendTake advantage of the long weekend to visit the place where it all began. Before they were presidents, Virginians George Washington, Thomas Jefferson,... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg: An Evening with the PresidentsJoin George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison this Presidents' Day weekend for a special evening event. The Presidents will explore how ... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg: Visit a Nation BuilderStep into the past with a Nation Builder. Through stories, discussion, and questions, explore the hopes, choices, and challenges they faced in William... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg: Firing of the Noon GunIn the life of Continental soldiers, the noon gun signaled a cessation of morning drills and work parties and a start to preparing the midday meal. ... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg: Musket Demonstration The musket was the best tool for warfare in the 18th and early-19th centuries. A member of Colonial Williamsburg’s Military Programs staff will demo... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg: Black History Month at King's Arms TavernCelebrate Black History Month with a specially curated lunch menu at King’s Arms Tavern. Featuring dishes inspired by African American influences on... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg: Salute to the PresidentsJoin us to celebrate the presidency with the Fifes & Drums of Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia State Garrison Regiment, and Nation Builders George Wash... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg: Presidential BrunchJoin us in the Terrace Room of the Williamsburg Inn for a sophisticated brunch inspired by the favorite dishes of our Founding Fathers. Indulge in a c... Read More
Colonial Williamsburg’s Spring Homeschool DaysDuring these special times, homeschoolers and their families can discover history brought to life at a special discounted rate. Join us to visit the h... Read More
A Common Cause To All 2025State planners of the 250th commemoration will convene at The Williamsburg Lodge for the third and final time for A Common Cause To All. This event is... Read More
Andrew Trivette
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