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Life in the 18th Century

People, places, and the making of history

A resource for bios, essays, and articles on the everyday lives of extraordinary Americans. Check here for background and research on the people and places of 18th-century Virginia.

Where do I Start?

A wealth of online resources awaits.

Online Features

Today in the 1770s

New Daily Feature! Excerpts from the 18th-century Virginia Gazette have been chosen for every day of the year. View now.
Fifes & Drums

Hear Colonial Williamsburg’s renowned musical regiment. Learn more.
Costume Design Center Timeline

Colonial Williamsburg's Costume Design Center celebrates its 75th anniversary of costumed interpretation in 2009. View now.
Multimedia
Podcasts, screensavers, ringtones and more. Learn more.
Conferences, Forums, & Workshops
Opportunities to deepen your knowledge, from antiques to oxen. Learn more.

Online Resources

Meet the people

Meet famous founders and lesser-known architects of a new republic.
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See the places

These restored and reconstructed sites and buildings are at the heart of history.
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Experience the life

Learn the rhythms of the lives of 18th-century Virginians.
Learn more.