Discover craftsmanship in more than 20 trades, where modern-day practitioners use 18th-century tools and techniques to apprentice in — and eventually master — blacksmithing, woodworking or gunsmithing, just to name a few. These world-renowned experts not only make goods and provide services to our Historic Area, they also consult and produce for other cultural institutions around the world. Your admission ticket grants you access to the shops and yards. Visit, ask questions, and observe their mesmerizing work. You will not find a trades community with so many experts in one place anywhere else in the world.
Woodworking
Apparel
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Weaver
Weaving the Fabric of Our Lives
CW Admission
Handicap Accessible
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Wigmaker
The Height of Colonial Fashion
CW Admission
Handicap Accessible
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Public Leather Works
Workman at the Public Leather Works cut, mold, and stitch leather and heavy textiles into a variety of necessary products for Virginia's fighting men.
CW Admission
Handicap Accessible
Food & Agriculture
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Foodways
What did Williamsburg’s 18th-century residents eat — and how did they cook it? Check the Public Armoury to see these interpreters prepare authentic colonial dishes, using the equipment and recipes that fueled the colonists.
CW Admission
Handicap Accessible
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Colonial Garden
Growing Vegetables, Herbs, and Flowers
CW Admission
Handicap Accessible
Metalworking
Specialty Trades
Please note that some images may have been taken prior to COVID-19. All guests are required to wear face masks when indoors, and they are recommended outdoors. Face coverings will be worn by Colonial Williamsburg staff. Learn more here about our commitment to the health and safety of our guests and staff and what protocols we have in place.