Historic Jamestowne, VA

The first permanent English settlement - Jamestowne. Founded in 1607, some 13 years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth, Jamestowne served as the capital of Virginia throughout the 17th century. We spent a wonderful day here - gorgeous weather, lush green surrounds (we avoided the swamps!), and a guided tour of the archaeological digs by an archaeologist who has been working the site for nearly 20 years. His passion for the project was contagious. I can only imagine how exciting it would be to work at this site, discovering new artefacts daily and piecing history together. We were able to draw some parallels for the children between this settlement and the first settlement in Australia - the hardships, the climate, interactions with indigenous people, population growth and development. 

Once again the children completed their Junior Ranger workbooks - and received a patch to be sewn on. We had a truly lovely lunch at the cafe on site - fresh, healthy soup, salads and fruit. We had a few conversations with other visitors who were keen to know about the children's ranger vests and badges.

Archaeologist giving guided tour of the Jamestown Fort - long believed eroded into the river, but now being uncovered

Explaining the dig site of two huge ovens - some early brickwork (1600s), believed to be used as forges

Memorial to Capt John Smith

With Pocahontas 

A reconstruction - over original footings - of the church where John Rolfe and Pocahontas were married

Gates into the fort

With Ranger Jeff - very enthusiastic ranger, and great with the kids!