So here we are in Colonial Virginia – the year is 1774. Because the entire area has been restored to what it was like over 225 years ago, it’s not too difficult to envision yourself in the midst of early Americana.

We’re really having a blast here. First of all, it’s great family time.  We had to remind ourselves that we don’t have to schlep the kids around to see every exhibit or demonstration. It’s been a God-given blessing to just be away from the routines of home.

On the first day, we checked in to the hotel after over 13 hours of driving from Chicago. Ruthie, the wildcard on the trip, was an absolute gem.  As long as we fed movies into the truck’s DVD player, she was fine. When the movie she was watching was ending, she was already making her request for the next one.

After check-in, we took the shuttle bus to the historical town area to catch the “Retreat”.  This was performed at the end of every day by the British regulars and the Virginia militia to signify a day’s end for a soldier.  It started with a fife and drum march to the barracks and closed with an inspection of the militia –  ragged farm boys (aged 16 and up) and men called to be soldiers to protect the colony. Eventually these boys would turn allegiance from England to form the Continental Army under George Washington. For now, they are loyal subjects of the King.

Here’s the boys waiting for the march:

Here’s the march!

And the Capital building – when Williamsburg was the capital of Virginia.