Join professor Cliff Clark and alumnus Cary Carson ’63 for a backstage view of Colonial Williamsburg and engaging discussions on the politics of history.

The Weekend

Professor Clark will lead us through discussions as to how our interpretations and understanding of life and politics in colonial America have changed in the past half century. We will look at the pros and cons of interpreting history through living history museums versus biographies and textbooks.

Cary Carson ’63 will take us behind the scenes to learn about Williamsburg’s artifacts, archaeology, rare books and manuscripts, and the conservation of its historic buildings.

Location

Williamsburg is the restored capital of colonial Virginia and the country’s largest interactive living history museum. Explore the sights, sounds, scents, and tastes of the colonial era, recreated by its colorful and impassioned citizens. Historic Williamsburg, spanning 301 acres, includes 88 original buildings and more than 500 meticulously reconstructed colonial homes, government buildings, trade shops, and taverns.

Accommodations

The Williamsburg Lodge, one of John D. Rockefeller’s original colonial Williamsburg hotels, will be Carleton’s base. A block of rooms is reserved for our group until March 10. Reserve your own room by calling 800-261-9530. Be sure to mention Carleton to get our special rate.

Faculty

Cliff Clark, history professor and the Hulings Professor of American Studies, has taught American history and American studies at Carleton since 1970. Clark is an expert in American domestic architecture and American social history.

Cary Carson ’63, vice president of research of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, will be our local guide and leader.