This has been a great day; I went with my son's class on a field trip to Jamestown, Virginia. As you may remember, Jamestown was the first permanent English settlement, established in 1607. Jamestown was also the capital of Virginia until 1698.
Almost immediately after landing, the colonists were under attack from the Algonquian Indian. Under the leadership of John Smith, they quickly built a fort, including a storehouse, church, and a number of houses. The friendly tribe of Powhatan Indian helped the colonists survive the harsh conditions by trading with them. The Powhatan chief was also the father of famous Pocahontas.
Sorry to disappoint everyone, but Pocahontas and John Smith did not have a steamy affair. When John Smith arrived to the New World, he was 27 years old, while Pocahontas was only 12. That difference in age makes the romance unlikely. Another thing I learned today, Powhatan men and women shaved their heads. So the image of John Smith madly in love with incredibly attractive, long-haired Pocahontas was dreamed up by Hollywood. Just a brief history lesson for Tuesday. Have a fabulous and productive day.
Here are some photos of Jamestown Settlement from my trip with 4th graders.
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