Penny Postcards: For Propriety’s Sake

Anytime is the perfect time to visit Colonial Williamsburg, but it can’t be fun to work as an historical interpreter in the summer, toiling outside in the humidity under all those pre-revolutionary clothes!

These postcards sent by Dave and Deborah Collins of Yorktown feature the elegant and historically accurate—but uncomfortably warm—fashions of bygone days.

Bootmakers Shop, COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG

Why, even while at work by the fireplace, this bootmaker wears his woolen stockings.

The Printing Office, COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG

This printer’s sleeves may be rolled up, but don’t assume he’s not burning up. Even as the owner of the craft shop, he’s practicing his trade by hand.

Spinning and Weaving Shop, COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG

Mobcaps are a must for any time of year, even 85-degree weather, even though they are itchy and provide absolutely no shade.

Christine Stoddard
Christine Stoddard is a past contributor to Virginia Living.
March 19, 2025

Spring Garden Tours at Brent and Becky’s

Brent and Becky’s Bulbs
March 19, 2025

Trumpeting Equality: The Women’s Suffrage March of 1913

Virginia War Memorial