Today, Kelly, Jen and the girls on Silver Linings (Katie, Ruby and Violet) visited Jamestown Settlement today. It was a memorable experience. English settlers came to Jamestown in 1607 (before the Mayflower!). They lived there from 1607 to 1624. It was a tough time for them. The Indians attacked them a few days after their arrival. They didn’t plan on a land attack. Instead, they focused their energy on a potential Spanish attack on the waterway. When they arrived the water was fresh water and in the fall the currents shifted and it became more saltwater and caused people to become ill and die. The English were not interested in doing manual labor to survive. It was said to be the starving years. There is even evidence of cannibalism after the person died. They also stole from the Indians. When they were caught the Indians told them that if they left their camp again, they would kill them. Basically, the Indians starved them. As a result, the settlers eventually left Jamestown. This was the era of John Smith and Pocahantas….and Disney got the story wrong!

In the 90’s, the town of Jamestown took over ownership of the land from a private owner and began archaeological digging.  Until this time, it was thought there was no evidence of the settlement. While we visited, they were still digging. We got a presentation from an actual archaeologist! They were uncovering building foundations, a water well and their kitchen (ditch). It was in the kitchen that they discovered cannibalism.  

We really enjoyed learning about the settlement and the role of an archaeologist. It was a highlight of our trip.

Afterwards, we made a short drive to downtown Williamsburg.  The main street is closed to cars and has cute little shops and restaurants. We had a girls lunch at a cheese shop with a charcutier tray and wine on their outside seating.  

After we got back to the boat, we made good use of having a rental car when to Lowes to get supplies for some future boat projects. While at Lowes we met someone who recommend we go to Rick’s for ice cream after… so obviously we did lol