Historic Jamestowne

Yesterday, we visited Historic Jamestowne, the site of the first permanent English settlement in America. As we walked down the footbridge, it felt like we were going back in time.

The Memorial Church was the center of worship at Jamestowne. It was humbling to walk through the doors.

The kids enjoyed the statues of Captain John Smith and Pocahontas.

Historical Trivia: Pocahontas was the daughter of Paramount Chief Powhatan. She was captured by the English while she was a teenager. As she was held hostage, she learned English and converted Christianity, taking the Christian name "Rebecca". In 1614 she married John Rolfe (not John Smith as Disney protrays) and bore him one child...Thomas Rolfe. In 1616 the young family returned to England. However, in March 1617 she became gravely ill and died at the approximate age of 22.  

James Fort was so realistic. We truly felt like we were stepping back in time.

Going to the actual site of Jamestowne was absolutely amazing! It's hard to describe the feeling that comes over you as you walk the grounds where the English settlers lived and struggled to survive. Jamestowne is an active archeological site. Jamestowne Rediscovery describes the efforts to find out as much as possible about the time period and people of Jamestown long ago.

Jamestown Rediscovery

While at Historic Jamestowne, part of the National Park Service, Christopher, Emily, and Lydia worked for hours to complete their Junior Ranger requirements. They went over and beyond the requirements :-)

After completing the requirements for Junior Ranger, the Jamestowne Park Ranger presented them with very nice patches and certificates! They sure earned them!

After visiting Historic Jamestowne, the kids wanted to visit the Jamestown Glasshouse located nearby. I didn't realize that they had never seen a glassblower perform his trade. They were fascinated!!

The Jamestown Glasshouse

What a wonderful day we had! The children and I are learning SO much about American History :-) Hands-on learning is the BEST! We've established a new thankfulness for the God-fearing men that endured such hardships to establish our wonderful country! May we never forget...