Williamsburg is in southeastern Virginia on a peninsula between the James and York Rivers, which run into Chesapeake Bay. Settled in 1632, it was Virginia's capital from 1699 to 1779. After time the city declined and it was not until the 1920's that the people took a real interest in Williamsburg. In fact, it was only in 1926 that the idea of excavating and restoring the colonial site of Williamsburg took bloom. The once known Williamsburg went through a complete transformation from an industrial town into a what is now known as Colonial Williamsburg. Colonial Williamsburg bridges Virginias past and present, with remnants of the Confederacy preserved amid the cultural and commercial bustle of modern day. Colonial Williamsburg is the nation's largest and oldest outdoor living history museum and portrays 18th-century Williamsburg as it appeared on the eve of the American Revolution. Throughout the city, an engaging mix of sights, sounds and activities helps visitors reconnect with America's past and become active participants in 18th-century life. Not only can visitors enjoy the restored buildings, but also actors recreate the everyday lives of early settlers. On Colonial Williamsburg's 173 acres, 88 original 18th- and early 19th-century structures, such as the courthouse, have been meticulously restored. The site is bent on keeping to the period's authenticity from pieces of furniture, pottery, china, glass, silver, pewter, textiles, tools, and carpeting, to landscaping. All year round visitors can observe hundreds of costumed interpreters, wearing bonnets or three-cornered hats. Many inhabitants of the settlement have organized a demonstration of their trades into seminars observed by the public. Historic trade demonstrations, dramatic vignettes, interactive programs and encounters with "People of the Past" take place in 28 exhibition sites and historic trade shops throughout the Historic Area. Visitors can enjoy 18th-century style dining in authentic colonial surroundings at one of Colonial Williamsburg's four operating taverns. Come out and enjoy being part of Colonial Williamsburg living history!