Forward, Together

Daily Press editorial

June 16, 2007

In his annual "state of the historic region" talk to community leaders, Colonial Williamsburg President Colin Campbell said, "Don't fall back." He was referring to the importance of continuing the spirit of cooperation that helped make the 400th anniversary of English settlers' arrival at Jamestown such a success.

Most impressive and welcome may be the long-overdue willingness of the two Jamestowns to dance together. To get the most out of their time here, visitors really should see both the living-history re-creation at the state-run Jamestown Settlement and the adjoining site of the actual settlement at Historic Jamestowne, which is jointly operated by APVA Preservation Virginia and the National Park Service. But for years, many visitors have missed out because each site seemed to prefer a solo performance, and there was no joint ticket, and little cross-over promotion, to encourage them to see both.

With a successful joint venture under their belts - and with Historic James-towne's status as a partner strengthened by a slew of archeological discoveries and new facilities - there's no excuse for not only maintaining it, but building on it.

The roster of partners goes on. The state stepped up with enthusiasm, largely in the form of money for new, permanent improvements at Jamestown Settlement - thanks in no small measure to Sen. Thomas Norment, who helped the money tree shake. The city of Williamsburg and James City County did, too, and Colonial Williamsburg and the College of William and Mary. And all the private entities who joined in. So when visitors came and the national media turned its attention to our historic tale, what they saw was a seamless and well-coordinated show. Speaking of the local shrines of American history, Campbell observed that each part is essential to the whole, each chapter essential to the telling of the story. Speaking of tourists, he noted that not only did they come to the Jamestown fete but, "They're still coming. And they will always come if we have the imagination and readiness to make it worth their time. Together, we can do it."

Together is the only way to do it.

 

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