The role of Williamsburg in America’s founding is nothing short of extraordinary. In the years leading up to the Revolution, this colonial capital city was a thriving center of culture, enterprise, education — and revolutionary ideas. It was here — in these homes, government halls and taverns — that Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and so many other Founders of our future United States wrestled with critical questions of independence, liberty, self-governance, and citizenship. Together with their fellow patriots across the colonies, they defied the odds to establish what had yet to be achieved anywhere: a functional, sustainable democracy.
Today, the complex and courageous stories of our founders offer inspiration to all Americans – and indeed, all those who seek freedom and a better way of life. Now more than ever, it is critical that we ensure the future of Colonial Williamsburg, a unique national treasure that exists to preserve and to share America’s history with the world.
Our goal is to find a way for Colonial Williamsburg to continue to tell America’s enduring story. This means, first and foremost, that we need to focus on our core educational mission – Historic Area preservation, the Museums, and educational programs. These are the reasons why people come visit us. It is why they care about us. It is why they support us. …