As Williamsburg was the capital of Colonial Virginia, so it is today the central point of historic Virginia. This narrative takes the reader on an informal trip through the heart of a fascinating countryside, which still retains all the mellow charm and tradition the past two centuries have given it. The journey begins with the venerable town of Fredericksburg, rich in its memories of both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. It continues down the Rappahannock, rambles along both banks of the James among the old river mansions, visits the site of Jamestown, stops for a while at Yorktown, and, of course, tarries longest at Williamsburg itself. Here a tour is made of the buildings and show-places of this newly restored capital of Old Virginia and its surroundings – the early homes and gardens, the historic churches, the Capitol where Patrick Henry delivered his famous oration, the college of William and Mary.
In NANTUCKET and ANNAPOLIS Mr. Stevens showed an uncanny flair for catching the personality of a town or community; and in this book he has utilized it to the full, coloring the narrative with his delightful sense of humor which seems to pervade even the most solemn events or the most dignified personages. There is history in these pages, but it is not oppressive, for much of it is anecdote, the human interest stories of by-gone characters – governors, statesmen, generals, fine gentlemen and reigning belles – the figures of history and legend that give Williamsburg its significance.
The book is profusely illustrated with the author's pen and ink drawings, with a frontispiece in color. For the traveler who expects to go to Williamsburg, this volume will be invaluable; for one who has already visited there, it will be no less a source of information and pleasure.
—from the dustjacket
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