The Capitol

From 1699 to 1780, Williamsburg was the political center of
Virginia, and here was built the state's first capitol building.

For most of the year, Williamsburg was a small
college town and market place, but twice annually,
during "publick times," the planters' capital sprang
to life. It was then that the legislature usually met,
and the courts were in session. A crowded social and
political calendar attracted men of every pocketbook
and profession from all parts of the colony. The
population of the town doubled almost overnight, and
every available inn, tavern, and private house was
packed to overflowing. On some occasions, the rooms
were insufficient to accommodate the visitors; at such
taverns as the Raleigh, guests might be awakened after
only a few hours of sleep to make way for others.

-- crazy! (I found that quote here.)

The west wing of the Capitol housed the General Courtroom on the first floor. The General Court, the highest court of the colony, convened in
April and October to hear both civil and criminal cases.
The jury below pronounced an accused thief "Guilty." :)
Members of the House of Burgesses which met here in the Capitol
included Patrick Henry, George Washington, and Thomas Jefferson,
who is speaking below. :) He taught us a lot!



Upstairs in one of the committee rooms for the burgesses,
it was neat for us to see that in the center of the table were
the Bible, the Book of Common Prayer, and the Laws of Virginia.
(I am reminded of David's lament, maybe somewhat out of
context, but the words do fit: "How the mighty have fallen!")