Grade 7 Students Connect With History in Jamestown and Colonial Williamsburg

The motto of Colonial Williamsburg: “That the future may learn from the past.” The sites and sounds of yesteryear came alive as Grade 7 students visited Jamestown Settlement and Colonial Williamsburg. 

At Jamestown Settlement, students developed an understanding of why and how three cultures met in Virginia - Native American, English, and West African.  In this endeavor, students experienced Native American life in the area - the Powhatan village; saw and climbed the ships - Godspeed, and Discovery - that brought Englishman to these shores in 1607; explored the James Fort and its buildings; and witnessed the powerful story of West African culture through interactive displays. 

In Colonial Williamsburg, students learned about colonial life through the streets and buildings that Thomas Jefferson and many eighteenth century historic icons traversed.  Students explored the amazing town with all the sites and sounds that recreated 18th century Colonial Virginia.  At night, seventh graders heard ghost tales that have been passed down from generation to generation.  

Most importantly, as the motto noted, each experience afforded students an opportunity to connect the past with the present.