People of Williamsburg
Eighteenth century Williamsburg was a community on the brink of revolution. Learn the stories of ordinary people during extraordinary times.
People You May Know
Stories from the Virginia Gazette
Read Their Stories
Voices in the Community
Gowan Pamphlet
An enslaved tavern worker, Gowan Pamphlet risked his well-being to secretly preach to fellow African American believers. He founded Williamsburg’s First Baptist Church, which continues to this day.
Ann Wager
After being widowed, Ann Wager made a living as the only teacher for the Bray School, educating enslaved and free African American children in Williamsburg for 14 years.
Revolutionaries
Thomas Jefferson
Author of the Declaration of American Independence and third president of the United States.
George Wythe
Teacher of some of early America’s most influential minds.
Patrick Henry
The Revolution’s most renowned orator.
Meet a Resident
Jane Vobe
Successful Williamsburg tavernkeeper.
James McClurg
Well-known physician in Virginia and resident at Custis Square.
Brafferton Student
Learn About Williamsburg
Historic Places
300+ buildings comprise our colonial capital city. 89 of those buildings are original to the 18th-century, while the rest were carefully reconstructed based on extensive research and archaeological evidence.
Moments in History
How did ordinary people navigate a world of colonialism, slavery, and revolution? How did colonists come to defy the social order? How did they build a new one? Dig into these stories to learn more.
Preserving the Past
The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation brings history to life for new generations through careful research, conservation and preservation and by providing immersive programming and authentic resources for learners, educators and researchers throughout the world.
Visit Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg is the world’s largest living history museum. Our 301 acres feature iconic sites, working tradespeople, historic taverns, and two world-class art museums.
