Powhatan Creek Park and Blueway is part of the Chesapeake Gateways Network and provides access to the James River at Jamestown Island, including scenic views of Historic Jamestown. The park consists of a small non-motorized boat/canoe/kayak launch with gravel parking for up to 20 vehicles, as well as 5 observation/fishing piers. Fishing and boat launch access is available 24 hours a day. Powhatan Creek is listed on the Natural Resources Inventory as the most biodiverse creek on the peninsula. Scenic views of tidal marshes and an abundance of wildlife highlight trips on this beautiful waterway.
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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.