Celebrating America 250 in colonial fashion
Photojournal by Janie Ferguson
It is currently eighty six degrees and partly cloudy here in Williamsburg, Virginia this 9th day of July 2026. We are enjoying the area, and its historic events on this the 250th Anniversary of our American Independence, and the founding of the United States.
Bringing grandchildren to such a historic place is very enjoyable, and teaches them our history, as well. You can see Ronnie above reading the Declaration of Independence, donning his Colonial yellow trimmed hat. “We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.” Ronnie is naturally interested in reading it, to see just what it says!
We spotted a window display at the Colorful Stitches Fine Yarn store located in the Colonial Williamsburg Merchant Square. Wonderfully displayed was Thomas Jefferson, and the Declaration of Independence, and we went in to take a closer look. Thomas Jefferson was attired in knitted versions of the type of period clothing that he wore, while drafting the Declaration of Independence. Also, knitted replicas of the desk, inkwell, quill pen, and chamberstick are seen here, too. “The knitted Declaration of Independence was inspired by the original document, this enlarged version was hand knitted by the store’s owner Bonnie Burton. The yarn was hand-dyed botanically in Virginia Beach using chestnuts and avocado pits to resemble parchment paper.
“We were delighted to see “A Knitted Moment in History,” that the store team hand knitted together to commemorate the 250th Celebration of American Independence. Many different kinds of buttons, along with the yarn, and other items are all for sale there, too. What patients, time, accuracy, and care were taken to display such a unique display of our history for others to enjoy. In this day and age of “instant” everything, it is very valuable to know that people still take the time to intricatly knit, and share their works of art! Thank you all.
Family time together at Colonial Williamsburg, VA, as we stroll along. We had to look up the name of this beautiful, pink, blooming tree, as I say hi from Virginia. Virginia was my home from 1967 until1982. It is a Crape Myrtle. A fast growing, deciduous tree. It has multi-stemmed branches, and a smooth bark. It is a popular ornamental choice in southern landscapes due to its long blooming period from summer into autumn.
Off in the distance, as we walked along in this historic area, we could hear the tapping of a drummer, and the sweet shrill of the fife playing tunes. As we followed their sound we came closer to listen, watch and record intently as they were recreating the sound of the American Revolution where fife and drums were used as “instant messaging.” Much different than “Instant messaging” is today. “Drummers Call” 18 century military music returns in 2026. They played a vital role in camp life, giving signals for assembly, mail call, water call, and church call, and in battle, relaying commands over the din of cannon and musket fire, too.
I’m ending today with a visit inside the Joiner Shop. Joiners were woodworkers that used 18th century tools and techniques and did the finish work for buildings including shutters, windows, doors, fireplace surrounds, and built in cupboards. We enjoyed watching as the wood was being shaved here.
I’m glad you came along with me today on our visit to Virginia, as we celebrated our 250th Anniversary of America’s Independence. America may not be what it used to be, but we are still a free nation, under God, of the people, by the people, and for the people.
We need to pray for our leaders. The Bible says, “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.”
I’m a day early this week. I hope you enjoy these photos and our time here together, and your weekend, too.
Sincerely, Janie
