Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

Something looks a little different at the Magazine... 👀 Thanks to years of architectural research and archaeological discoveries, the Magazine's second-floor windows have been restored to better reflect how the building appeared in 1776. While they may seem like a small detail, these new casement windows tell a much bigger story. Archaeologists uncovered fragments of diamond-shaped window glass and the lead strips that once held the panes together, providing evidence that the Magazine originally had casement windows. Historical records also showed those windows likely remained in place until at least 1778, making them the best choice for restoring the building to its Revolutionary-era appearance. Using this evidence, preservation experts researched historic examples, developed an accurate design, and partnered with skilled craftspeople to handcraft the new windows. Every discovery helps us better understand the past and brings us one step closer to sharing it as accurately as possible. Like so many other projects around the Historic Area, this restoration is fully supported by donors. Join them by making a gift and becoming a donor today: https://bit.ly/4vBf4FX

As the first master metalsmith to work in the reconstructed James Craig Shop (the Golden Ball), Bill deMatteo helped bring an 18th-century trade back to life. The shop opened to visitors in July 1955, continuing a tradition of metalsmithing that had been part of Colonial Williamsburg since the late 1930s. This archival film, produced in 1971, follows deMatteo as he transforms scrap silver into a handcrafted coffeepot and mug, offering a behind-the-scenes look. Produced by Arthur L. Smith, the head of the Foundation’s audiovisual department, "The Colonial Silversmith” was one of dozens of educational films produced for use in schools, museums, libraries, and television broadcasts. 🎥 Watch the full film on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/eT7jxNCX

Body art has a much longer history than many realize, and were present in both Indigenous and European communities. This #NationalTattooDay, learn more about who got tattoos, what they meant, and why they got them in the 18th century: https://lnkd.in/eyMD6kJ2 ✍️

Do you have a favorite photo from a recent visit with Colonial Williamsburg? We may choose it as our “Parting Shot” in an upcoming issue of the Foundation’s quarterly magazine, Trend & Tradition. Here's how: 🖼️ Pick your favorite photo from a recent visit with Colonial Williamsburg (either as a .jpg or .tif file, at least 300 dpi at 5x7) ✉️ Send to partingshot@cwf.org 🗣️ Tell us where you’re from and why you love the image! 📸: Sarah Jones, Brenna Behel, Mike Lewis, Rebecca Jaeager

This event would not have been possible without a solid *Foundation*! The 250th celebration of our nation was a true community-wide effort, with teams from across The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation coming together to create an unforgettable experience for our guests. From the Historic Area and Hospitality to behind-the-scenes setup to volunteers, everyone had a hand in this momentous occasion. With sincere gratitude, thank you to all who contributed your talent, energy and passion to make the day such a success. HUZZAH to our CW family!

This July 4, thousands of people stood where America began, and millions more watched from home. On behalf of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, thank you for joining us to commemorate the nation’s 250th birthday. We are so glad you joined us in celebrating America’s 250th birthday! Huzzah! 🎆 Download your free commemorative poster and remember the 250th for years to come. Designed exclusively for this once-in-a-lifetime event and featuring a list of highlighted guests and performers, there’s no better way to continue the celebration at home: https://lnkd.in/ezGG7Ygd

Whether you’re in person or viewing the broadcast, be a part of the July 4 celebration by joining fellow Virginians from across the state! 📜 Begin your July 4th celebration with the words that started a new nation and join us LIVE as Thomas Jefferson reads the Declaration of Independence, 250 years after it was written. Livestream link to the Morning Reading of the Declaration of Independence at 9:30 AM EDT on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ekfqg3aR 🎥 Broadcasting live from the heart of Williamsburg, VA across all station-branded PBS platforms including the PBS app and https://lnkd.in/efPA4-vK

In time for America’s 250th birthday, we asked some of Colonial Williamsburg’s historical interpreters: What’s your wish for America’s future? Here’s what they had to say. 💌 #CivicSeason #WishWall #CW250