It began on the swampy marshes of Jamestown in 1607. It ended on the battle scarred landscape of Yorktown in 1781. It was 174 years of hope, frustration, adventure and growth that saw a lonely settlement of 104 men and boys grow into a nation of 13 colonies of 3 million people, of many races and many beliefs. Jamestown and Yorktown mark the beginning and end of English Colonial America.
Historic Jamestowne
Historic Jamestowne is a place of many beginnings, many first. It was the beginning of England's successful colonization of America with the first Permanent English Colony. It was the first seat of English government in Virginia, the place where the first representative government met in 1619 and the first recorded arrival of Africans to English America.
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Yorktown Battlefield
Yorktown is the site of the final major battle of the American Revolutionary War. The Revolution secured independence for the United States and significantly changed the course of world history.
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Colonial Parkway
An integral part of Colonial National Historical Park this 24 mile scenic Colonial-style highway connects Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown. Its panoramic vistas, gently winding curves, through patches of Pine and Evergreen forest, constantly leaves the visitor with an expectation as to what the next curve may bring forth.
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Cape Henry Memorial
The park's Cape Henry Memorial unit marks the approximate site of the first landing of the Jamestown settlers in Virginia. It also overlooks the Chesapeake Bay scene of the Battle of the Capes, the sea battle that played an integral part in the Yorktown campaign and led to the surrender of the British at Yorktown.
Tidewater Virginia generally has a warm climate. Average winter daytime temperatures peak at 10 C (50 F) with night time lows of 3 C (25-20 F). Chilling winds coming off the rivers can produce wind chill temperatures much lower. Summer temperatures range from daytime highs of 30 C (85-90 F) down to 20 C (60 F) at night. Area is generally humid, especially during the summer months. Layered clothing is recommended in early spring, late fall and winter. Good walking shoes for year round comfort. Insect repellent recommended in spring and summer for mayflies, mosquitoes, chiggers, and ticks. For a three to five day forecast go to more information. more...
Did You Know? By the Act of March 1, 1872, Congress established Yellowstone National Park in the Territories of Montana and Wyoming, the first National Park in the world. This act was signed by President Ulysses S. Grant. more...
