What makes Colonial Williamsburg so special isn’t just the 18th-century buildings, gardens, and animals. It’s the people who bring history to life every day—365 days a year! I could blog for days about the wonderful interpreters you’ll encounter during your visit but instead, with the help of some very talented local photographers, I thought I’d show you what (and who) makes a trip here such a welcoming experience!
I would like to extend a special “thank you” to Fred Blystone, Sandy Cetin, Annie Horan, Shannon Schojan, Judy North, and Jerry Shell for helping me with this project and capturing these very special moments.
Now that you’ve scrolled through all the pictures—tell us, are any of these faces familiar to you? You may recognize them from some of our blogs featuring our historic trades and talented interpreters!
Bella says
We have been making yearly trips for CW for roughly 10 years now, and we are always impressed with the knowledge that we gain through the interpreters. Whether it’s in the trade shops, homes, programs, or on the street we have always been treated very courteously and our queries addressed in a most knowledgeable and polite way. We love CW!!!!!
Wendy says
We were there in April and we so enjoyed a carriage ride with that nice young man! He was quite interesting with his stories, definitely a do again. 🙂
Lanie Avery says
It must have been Adam. He has been there for quite some time and is a delightful, polite young man.
Lanie Avery says
Sorry, forgot to post the pic!
Jessica A. Ross says
What a great picture! Thanks for sharing. 🙂
Jessica A. Ross says
Adam was one of our very first blog interviews! http://makinghistorynow.com/2014/10/10-reasons-why-its-fun-to-ride-coach/
Brenda Delores Poole says
The adorable gentleman 5th from top is lovable Adam Canady!
Jessica A. Ross says
Why, yes. Yes it is!
Melissa Blank says
The one 10th from the bottom is of course Eleanor, the Armory Cat! She just let me share the image as long as I kept petting her!
Jessica A. Ross says
Haha! We got a two for one deal with that picture. 🙂
Terry Gruber says
Nice pics, but please, no beards unless you are a soldier on campaign, and even then only a few days growth.
Nancy Fawcett says
This is so wonderful. Have loved Williamsburg since I was a child and am 63 now! Love the faces.
Jessica A. Ross says
I’m so glad you enjoyed the blog, Nancy! Thank you for sharing.
Bethany B says
The young lady in the garden seventh from the bottom is my sister!
lou graziano says
I first became aware of your sister through the facebook site on Williamsburg when your parents said it was she who was on the cover of the Williamsburg Magazine. We saw her today and she was still having the time of her life. She may not remember me but I am the one writing the bio on Peyton Randolph and she might remember that. We also live in NY in Westchester.
Jessica A. Ross says
Well, hello Jen’s sister!
Robert C says
I spoke with her before if she tends the garden. She was very nice. She gave me some good tips about my garden at home. Cant remember exactly what the process was but something along the lines of covering up the young budding plants in the winter to protect from frost as well as the sun to give the vegetable more flavor.
Jessica A. Ross says
Wesley, Jen, and Emily are all extremely knowledgeable and helpful. I recommend every guest make a stop at the Colonial Nursery on their way down DoG Street.
Amanda Doggett says
Hi there! I’m the red head in blue featured above. I’ve worked for CW for almost two years, and while I can’t speak for every one, I can say with certainty that the thing that keeps me coming back to work and restors my faith in living history every day is YOU. Our guests. The people who listen to what we say, who come looking for an escape, a history lesson, or a smile. We do this for you. Thank you for letting us be your guide into the 18th century. It’s a pleasure!
tommy says
NO, THANK YOU very much . I have been to CW some 18 - 20 times it is always a great trip !
Jessica A. Ross says
What a sweet message, Amanda. You are always a pleasure to work with and a joy to the guests!
Robert C says
Thanks so much for interacting with us guests! Have a season pass and its always fun to chat with the workers. Sometimes I have to refrain from asking too many questions.
Jeff picoult says
Hi Amanda!
You aren’t kidding about offering a smile. I was at CW with my family last week and we were greeted with smiles and enthusiasm at every turn. The history lesson is amazing and the knowledge and willingness to share is absolutely wonderful. Sometimes, though, it’s just the friendly and playful banter that is what’s so fun. When we stopped by the Joinery you made your entrance with a special treat for one of the Joiners and then were teased about being sassy. That sassy-ness of yours is a glorious thing. It adds a touch of fun to each and every encounter with your guests and keeps your coworkers on their toes. As I said on our way out the door…. Stay Sassy!
Thanks, so much, for all that you, and all of the others do at CW.
I’ve attached a photo of you from our trip this past spring. I have a few others if you’re interested. I’ve also posted one or two on my instagram at instagram.com/jeffpicoultphotography
Janet Bird says
The person one row 3, photo #2 on the grid photo and fifth from the bottom of the large photos is Lynn. She always greeted everyone with a smile at the Dubois Grocer, but she is not working at CW this year. We have kept in touch with her and enjoy visiting with her when we are in the Williamsburg area.
Jessica A. Ross says
Thank you for sharing, Janet!
Judi Mobilio says
Love this one! When we visited a few weeks ago I commented to my husband that the talented and enthusiastic interpreters and tradespeople are so much of what makes Colonial Williamsburg special.