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Day 2: June 3, 2005 |
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Day 2: June 3, 2005 |
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I backtracked just a bit to check out this diner I had noticed last
evening. It was certainly worth it. The Blue Star has been in business in
this spot with the same owner since 1963. I don't believe many travelers
stop here any more and it has become a place where everybody knows your
name - and your car. Regulars are usually recognized as they pull into the
parking lot and have their coffee waiting by the time they reach the
counter.
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US-60 passes right through Williamsburg and I decided to pass the day
there. It has been on my "to do" list for a long time and,
scheduling wise, this was the perfect opportunity. My son and his wife
were busy until mid-afternoon and the historic town is less than twenty
miles away. Weather wise it was not so perfect. It was not actually
raining when I reached the Visitor's Center at Colonial Williamsburg but
puddles stood on and around the 3-D map outside. I bought my ticket,
caught a shuttle, and started my visit with a short orientation walk.
Incidentally, in what could be coincidence or an intentional connection
with the past, the present day cost of admission is exactly the same
amount as the original construction cost of the entire 18th century town.
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Williamsburg was the capital of the Colony of Virginia during the American
Revolution. When the capital was moved to Richmond in 1781 its importance
immediately dropped and its decline began. Its revival started in
1926 with a lot of Rockefeller money. Existing buildings were restored and
other buildings were reconstructed on their original locations. Three
buildings that played significant roles in Williamsburg and United States
history are the Governors Palace, the Magazine, and the Capitol. The
Magazine is restored. The other two are reconstructions.
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Of course one of the attractions of Colonial Williamsburg is the presence
of people practicing and displaying the trades and other occupations of
the 1700s.
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You can ride around town in 18th century style or interact with 18th
century town folk. That big line is for a mock trial inside the
courthouse.
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This is not a reconstruction or even a restoration. This is Bruton Parish
Church; In constant use since 1715.
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Archeological research continues today as evidenced by this ongoing dig of
Mr. Charlton's Coffeehouse.
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