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Williamsburg: Hospitality and history make this living museum a vital economic center
Fife-and-drum brigades, candlelit windows framed by auburn brick buildings, and streets bustling with 18th century mercantile activity. As a living history museum, Williamsburg Va., wears the costume of America's Colonial period as stylishly as a gentleman wears a powdered wig.
The images of early America are emotionally powerful and economically priceless. Each year they draw nearly 4 million visitors into the greater Williamsburg area, visitors who spend $650 million to experience American history firsthand, shop, and unwind.
As a result, the Historic Triangle - Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown - is a center for cultural, educational, and entertainment activities. These areas are linked by Interstates 64, 95, and 81, and the National Park Service's scenic 23-mile Colonial Parkway.
"Williamsburg is a terrific place to visit, to live, and to work," says Bob Hershberger, executive vice president of the Williamsburg Area Chamber of Commerce.
The historical significance of the area as a political and economic center is well documented.
Jamestown was founded in 1607 as the first English-speaking settlement, predating Plymouth in Massachusetts by 13 years. In 1996, after half a century of searching, archaeologists discovered the original military fort of this settlement.
Yorktown is the site of the last major battle of the American Revolution -- British Gen. Charles Cornwallis' surrender to George Washington in 1781. Williamsburg was chartered in 1699 as historical Virginia's capital. And Colonial Williamsburg, as it is today, was birthed with the $2 million donation of John D. Rockefeller Jr. in 1926, and the vision of Rev. William Archer Rutherfoord Goodwin. Years of authentic restoration and reclamation produced 173 acres of buildings, gardens, and common areas that pay homage to America's past.
"The restored area, with its interpreters, is a unique classroom where all ages can learn about early America," Hershberger says.
Without a doubt history provides a foundation for the tourism industry that is vital to the local and state economies. Tourism is Virginia's second largest industry, and Colonial Williamsburg is among the hot spots.
In the 1997 "Virginia Visitor's Study," 10.9 percent of the pleasure tourists surveyed chose Colonial Williamsburg as their favorite special attraction. Blue Ridge Parkway was second with 10.6 percent of the votes,...