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August 1, 2005

Vacationing in Williamsburg, Part 2

We spent our first two full days here exploring Colonial Williamsburg. It was a unique experience. I knew a little about the area before coming down here, but had never researched the history of the area. I actually liked the fact that we didn't see Bassett Hall until today; its exhibits tell the story of how John D. Rockefeller, Jr. was convinced to finance the restoration of Williamsburg in the 1920s. Going though about two-thirds of the exhibits on the first day without knowing what was original construction and what was rebuilt increased the authenticity for me.

Watching the trade specialists (silversmiths, cobblers, leathermen, etc.) in their native element was very cool. I couldn't really tell which of the staff lived onsite, and as in the 18th century, but most of them would couch their descriptions with some comparisons to modern-day life. I heartily recommend a visit there, and you definitely need two 5- to 6-hour days to get to everything. At 5 years old, Ryan isn't really moved by the area, so I can't say it's great for the little ones.

We stayed in for spaghetti dinner last night, but tonight we visited the Green Leafe Cafe, which was pretty cool. They made me a good fish 'n' chips and I had a nice Sierra Nevada Pale Ale.

Last night we went out to see Sky High. I knew it would be popcorn, but its plot was more developed than I expected. Definitely worth at least a rental if you want to see a family-friendly "coming of age" superhero movie.

It's supposed to be a hot, clear day tomorrow, so it looks like we're going to go out to Virginia Beach. Later!

Posted by Alex Harden on August 1, 2005 8:45 PM |

Comments

I went to Colonial Williamsburg when I was in the 8th grade time frame of my life. I really enjoyed the experience, but I really was into American History.

Posted by: Scott | August 3, 2005 12:32 PM

I can see how it might seem a *lot* more realistic to an eighth-grader; do you remember the residents/workers endeavoring to act authentic? Melissa told me that's what disappointed her about it, like she expected kids in the period's costumes to be dashing around, playing games of the period.

Posted by: aharden | August 3, 2005 8:55 PM

Yeah, at that time I liked the crafts people acting authentic. I also remember a Colonial battle exhibition with redcoats, cannon fire and the whole nine yards.

I have been reviewing the photos you uploaded, and I remembered a lot of the governor,s mansion including the gardens.

We did Busch Gardens also as well as Jamestown and several plantations. As I said, I was and can be an American History geek so I kind of dug it back then. I have not been back since though, so no idea if I would be quite a infatuated now.

Posted by: Scott | August 6, 2005 2:14 PM

I have a lot more photos to upload now that I'm home. Will try to get them done tonight. I had a real bummer this morning - my digital camera's CCD is completely down. Other than the fact that it now takes completely black pictures, it's working fine. ;) I'll probably tinker with it later and/or see if it's worth getting repaired. I have a feeling I'd be able to get a new camera that suited my needs for almost as much as it'd cost to have it professionally repaired.

Posted by: aharden | August 6, 2005 3:38 PM

Hmm, someone notes this problem I'm seeing here. I have a few memory sticks I can use to test the cited issue; hopefully this is it.

Posted by: aharden | August 6, 2005 4:16 PM

Ugh... looks like I'm getting bitten by a common problem with my camera's model (the Sony DSC-P51). However, my camera's lasted a little over three years, 3000+ shots, and a few drops without a problem until this.

Posted by: aharden | August 6, 2005 5:46 PM

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