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Williamsburg Premium Outlets

Williamsburg Premium Outlets

Find impressive savings at Williamsburg Premium Outlets, with…
Merchants Square

Colonial Williamsburg’s Merchants Square

With its conception dating back to 1927, Merchants Square is…
Everything WIlliamsburg

Everything Williamsburg

Snacks and Souvenirs - from t-shirts to toys, you’ll find a…
The Mole Hole

The Mole Hole

Located in the heart of Williamsburg, The Mole Hole is a unique…
Wallace's Trading Post

Wallace’s Trading Post

Wallace’s Trading Post is your one-stop-shop for quality merchandise…
Williamburg Merchants

Williamsburg Merchants

Four generations of Wallaces in Williamsburg have enjoyed a long…
The Shoe Attic

The Shoe Attic

Looking for shoes in the Williamsburg Virginia area? Well The…
Edgewood outfitters llc

Edgewood Outfitters

Edgewood Outfitters is an independent boutique with a cute selection…

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THE HISTORY OF WILLIAMSBURG

Prior to European settlement, the area around modern-day Williamsburg was settled by the indigenous American tribes of the Powhatan Confederacy. Williamsburg was first settled in 1638 and was originally referred to as Middle Plantation due to its location on the high ground in the middle of the Virginia Peninsula. In 1699, Middle Plantation was renamed Williamsburg in honor of King William III of England.

By the turn of the 20th century, Williamsburg was a quiet country village, and many colonial buildings, while still standing, were in disrepair. The Reverend Dr. D.A.R. Goodwin made it his goal to restore Williamsburg to its colonial spendor, seeking financial help from none other than John D. Rockefeller Jr., the heir to Standard Oil. It was due to the Rockefeller contributions that Williamsburg became what it is today: A living museum, with history preserved and on exhibit every day.

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