Jamestown: British Planting on Virginia Soil

In 1607, the British established the Jamestown colony on the James River. Three wooden ships, Susan Constant, Godspeed and Discovery, carry 104 men from England to this tiny island. Shortly, they are confronted by the Powhatan-led local Indians. By 1609, the first Anglo-Powhatan War broke out. All but 60 settlers die in a period called "The Starving Time."

Compared to the lack of resistance from the indigenous people for the Pilgrims at Plymouth, Jamestown settlers struggled for survival. By 1619, an elected legislature is established. In 1622, over 350 settlers are massacred outside of the Fort at Jamestown. In 1644, the Third Anglo-Powhatan War breaks out.

In spite of such a difficult time, Jamestown does become established. By 1699, the colonial capital moves from Jamestown to Williamsburg. Slavery, first established in 1619 at Jamestown, becomes well-ensconced in the colony to support the growth and harvesting of tobacco.

There is well-established shipping between Jamestown and England.

A Full-Scale Model of the Godspeed

There was supporting industry for maintaining the ships.

While there is an extensive museum with galleries of collections spanning the 17th and early 18th centuries, the active research and active archeology is being undertaken at the neighboring Historic Jamestowne. This work is affiliated with the National Park Service.

Check out this website for learning about the fascinating work being done.

https://historicjamestowne.org/archaearium-virtual-tour-2/

Cheers,

Brio