Forge, Fire, Stitch, and Shave -
The Technologies That Built James Fort

Colonial Williamsburg journeyman blacksmith Steve Mankowski pulls a "bloom" out of a small furnace used for smelting iron called a bloomery.WILLIAMSBURG, Va. - Through the new program "Forge, Fire, Stitch, and Shave - The Technologies That Built James Fort," guests explore the technologies and military tactics that sustained the early settlers of James Fort. The program takes place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on June 23 at Historic Jamestowne.

Members of Colonial Williamsburg's Historic Trades department will demonstrate and discuss the skills and techniques that were used for making iron, barrels, shoes -- and even the walls of houses. Younger settlers are invited to join Captain Brewster and several soldiers from 1612 as they recruit and drill the new arrivals, learning the technology of defense and the military discipline necessary to defend the fort from expected Spanish encroachments.

Since the rediscovery of James Fort in 1996, archaeologists have been uncovering clues that reveal how the early settlers lived, worked and survived at this frontier outpost. In this special program, guests will have the opportunity to see some of the trades practiced inside the area where the original 1607 fort stood.

The program is free with paid admission to Historic Jamestowne. Admission is $10 per adult (which includes both Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown Battlefield). Children under age 16 are admitted free. America the Beautiful National Park passes are accepted. Preservation Virginia members are also admitted free. For further information, call (757) 229-4497 or visit www.historicjamestowne.org.

This program is presented jointly by Historic Jamestowne and The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.

Historic Jamestowne is jointly administered by the National Park Service and The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (on behalf of Preservation Virginia) and preserves the original site of the first permanent English settlement in the New World.