Reviving Williamsburg

Williamsburg's evolution and significant role in shaping our understanding of 18th-century America are explored in depth in the present day, where it is recognized as the world's largest "living history" museum. As the capital of the Virginia colony in the 1700s, Williamsburg was a crucial setting for the pivotal debates that paved the way for the American Revolution. The extensive restoration efforts spearheaded by W. A. R. Goodwin, with the backing of John D. Rockefeller, Jr., in the 1920s and 1930s, have allowed visitors to experience Williamsburg as it existed in the 18th century.

Building upon the foundation laid by the classic work "Williamsburg Before and After," which has sold over 200,000 copies, "Restoring Williamsburg" provides a fresh and nuanced perspective on the ongoing restoration process. Alongside capturing key moments in the site's transformation, the book delves into the complexities of modern curatorial practices and evolving approaches to historical preservation. Richly illustrated with over 350 photographs, watercolors, sketches, maps, and other visual aids, "Restoring Williamsburg" showcases new imagery from before and after the restoration efforts.

This publication serves as a valuable contribution not only to the realm of architectural history and restoration techniques but also to our comprehension of the town that continues to ignite reflections on American history. Distributed by The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, "Restoring Williamsburg" offers a comprehensive examination of Williamsburg's past, present, and future, shedding light on its enduring importance in shaping our collective heritage.

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