When Colonial Williamsburg was founded in the 1920s, it was part of a movement to preserve the “heritage” of early America, which was in danger of being lost to demolition and disrepair. However, as historians and archaeologists dig deeper into the past, this idea of static “preservation” has become problematic. As each generation of historians and writers revises history, and each asks new questions about the past, places such as Williamsburg change as well, incorporating aspects of history previously overlooked or left out. The next generation of visitors to the Williamsburg restoration may find themselves surrounded by a completely different version of the colonial American past than visitors today experience.
After reviewing this source, return to the main activity window to test your comprehension, answer short essay questions, embark on longer projects, or view related Bedford, print, and Internet sources.