Long before the English arrived in Jamestown, Indigenous peoples inhabited the land, with large Native settlements at surrounding sites such as Indian Field Creek. As the English colonized the area in the early 17th century, tensions between the colonists and Indigenous peoples led to ambushes and battles. Pocahontas, a real Indigenous person and daughter of Chief Powhatan, played a significant role in this history.
Colonial Williamsburg now offers events to explore the history of Indigenous communities and African American residents. Efforts are being made to tell the stories of Black residents, such as the uncovering of the foundations of the First Baptist Church, one of the oldest African-American churches in North America. The church has a rich history, initially formed in 1776 by free and enslaved Black people.
In addition to efforts to preserve and share the history of the First Baptist Church, plans are underway for a new African American Heritage Trail in Williamsburg, which will highlight important historical sites related to African American history, such as the Bray School – believed to be the oldest existing building dedicated to the education of Black students in the USA.
With ongoing efforts to uncover and share these important histories, Williamsburg is working towards a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of its diverse past for future generations.
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