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Jamestown Settlement
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Historical site
The Jamestown Settlement, located on an island in the James River in Virginia, holds profound historical significance as the site of the first massive, permanent English colony in the Americas, established in 1607 by the Virginia Company of London. The colony's early years were characterized by massive, devastating hardships, including rampant disease, severe starvation during the 'Starving Time', and intense, often violent conflict with the massive Powhatan Confederacy. Jamestown's ultimate survival was massively dependent on the introduction of a new, highly profitable strain of tobacco by John Rolfe, establishing a massive plantation economy. Furthermore, the site is critically important as the massive origin point of American representative government, with the convening of the first General Assembly in 1619, and the tragic arrival of the first enslaved Africans in the same year. History K8 — colonial origins and the establishment of slavery.
- Location: United States
- Top sights: Ampitheatre · Historic Jamestowne - Visitor Center · Governor Harvey House
- Nearby: Croaker (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 5 | 9 | 15 | 20 | 25 | 27 | 26 | 22 | 16 | 10 | 6 |
| Rain mm | 72 | 70 | 87 | 88 | 100 | 119 | 127 | 137 | 130 | 101 | 83 | 91 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The living-history museum and replicas of the first settlement are open year-round. Visitors can explore the ships, houses, and Powhatan village.
Typical hours
The grounds are typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. In winter, it often closes one hour earlier.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the grounds. Flash is prohibited inside the historic buildings.
Time needed
Allow at least two to three hours for a thorough visit. The many costumed interpreters and interactive stations take time.
Combine with
Combine your visit with nearby Colonial Williamsburg or Yorktown Battlefield. Virginia's Historic Triangle features many attractions.
Getting there
Jamestown Settlement is about 20 minutes southwest of Williamsburg, reachable by car via the Colonial Parkway. Parking is available.
Insider tip
Visit early morning to beat large school groups and tour buses. Bring sun protection and water as most time is spent outdoors.
Geography
Facts
- Jamestown was established on May 14, 1607, more than a decade before the massive Plymouth colony.
- During the horrific 'Starving Time' winter of 1609-1610, roughly 80 percent of the colonists perished.
- John Rolfe's successful cultivation of a sweeter tobacco strain in 1612 ensured the massive economic survival of the colony.
- The first representative legislative assembly in the Americas convened at the Jamestown church in 1619.
- The first recorded massive arrival of enslaved Africans in British North America occurred at Jamestown in 1619.
- The original massive fort was built in a triangular shape to defend against potential attacks from the Spanish.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Jamestown Settlement (16)
Jamestown Settlement🏛 museum
The Jamestown Settlement is a living-history museum that recreates the first permanent English colony in America.
🌐 jyfmuseums.org🕒 Mo-Su 09:00-17:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Jamestown Settlement?
A living history museum that recreates the first permanent English settlement in America.
What can you see there?
Replicas of ships, a settlement, and a Powhatan village.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it is very interactive and educational for all ages.
How much time should you plan for?
A full day is good to explore all areas at leisure.
When is it open?
Usually open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
Jamestown Settlement: where is it located?
Jamestown Settlement is located in United States.
Jamestown Settlement: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ampitheatre, Historic Jamestowne - Visitor Center, Governor Harvey House.
Jamestown Settlement: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Jamestown Settlement: why is it worth visiting?
The Jamestown Settlement, located on an island in the James River in Virginia, holds profound historical significance as the site of the first massive, permanent English colony in the Americas, established in 1607 by the Virginia Company of London.
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