Colonial Times (Williamsburg Vacation)

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Mar 26, 2004
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I'm taking the family to Williamsburg in a couple of weeks, and want to get any recommendations for period-specific knifemakers/blacksmiths. We're looking over all the on-line information, and trying to decide where to spend our time, and prefer to immerse the kids in the "old ways", which, of course, would include blacksmiths and knife makers of the colonial period.

Any recommendations out there? Of course, any good restaurant recommendations would be also appreciated, but I'm trying to keep relatively on topic.... :D
 
We have taken quite a few family vacations in Williamsburg and have always had a very pleasant time. I also recommend side trips to Jamestown and Yorktown, if you have time.

There is a blacksmith shop, among other craft shops. You can observe the smith at work and ask questions.

As for restaurants, one of my favorite restaurants, anywhere, is the Trellis, just a short walk from Colonial Williamsburg. Best for lunch or a fancy dinner.

Have a great trip!
 
Not sure if you are asking for a maker to make a knife for your trip or makers to visit (it appears the later, but thought I would mention a maker to consider). If you are wanting a knife to take with you, check out Bob Alderman's work. He is one of the makers you can find in the Makers forum. Bob does outstanding historical accurate work.
 
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Not sure if you are asking for a maker to make a knife for your trip or makers to visit (it appears the later, but thought I would mention a maker to consider). If you are wanting a knife to take with you, check out Bob Alderman's work. He is one of the makers you can find in the Makers forum. Bob does outstanding historical accurate work.

The latter, but I'm always looking for a good maker as well, thanks!
 
My only recommendation is to get there early. Years ago I went there with my family and got there about 3PM. We were told that they would be closing at 5. This was in July on a Saturday. :confused: Maybe things have changed since then.

On the way out we saw an Amish buggy coming to the park. I stopped and told them that it was closed. They were not happy. Ja?
 
My daughter and I visited William & Mary last summer. Spent most of a day in Colonial Williamsburg. The highlight of our visit was a Tavern Dinner with friends. We ate at the King's Arms and had a very good meal and great time. They try to recreate an 18th Century dining experience. The only thing my daughter didn't like was the peanut soup.

Link

Being able to spend her holidays at Colonial Williamsburg almost made her choose William and Mary. ;)
 
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Colonial Williamsburg is one of my very favorite places. The Kings Arms is quite nice, but my favorite restaurant in the restored area is Chowning's Tavern. I usually end up having dinner there when I go (as in, every night of my stay :) ).

Definitely go to The Yorktown Victory Center and the Jamestown Settlement and Jamestown Rediscovery. The nice thing about that area is that Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown are so close to one another. The drive along the Colonial Parkway is quite pleasant.

I haven't been to Williamsburg in ages. I definitely need to plan another trip over that way. Anyway, enjoy the trip! It's a great place to visit. :)
 
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