We had some showers over the night but woke to a pretty nice day. Partly cloudy and 85 degrees.
We drove about 45 minutes to The Jamestown Settlement.
A statue of Pocahontas hiding behind Martha. She later married John Rolfe, a tobacco farmer and statesman. She died and is buried in England on a trip there with him.
And a Statue of John Smith
In 1602 the first British Settlement it was chosen for its strategic location and deep harbor. At one time as many as 38 trade ships were mored in her harbor and one Captain wrote, "The Harbor here is so deep we are not anchored out but tied to the trees on shore.
Then we went back to our Trailer's location on Fort Monroe and toured the Fort. It turned out to be far more interesting than Jamestown. It was significant in the fight with the British for America's Independence, as well as an important stronghold for the Union during the Civil War. The Fort itself is on an island, and a moat was dug around it with the dirt piled high around the walls for protection.
The first Iron Clad Ships did battle just near the Fort.
Inside the cannons adorned every window. On the floor you can see the track the mounting rode on to aim it to the left or right. The mounting also allowed for it to retract to load, then slide out to fire.
Many very famous individuals walked these grounds. Edgar Allan Poe was a soldier here.
During the Civil War Both President Lincoln and U.S. Grant were here to strategize.
Prior to the Civil War Robert E. Lee was a soldier stationed here. Below is a picture of his quarters.
During the Civil War the Confederate President, Jefferson Davis, was captured and a prisoner held here for two years until the end of the war.
All of the buildings are very old and very cool. Great museum here.
The door to Jefferson Davis's cell on display.
And at the tip of the island, a lighthouse, one of Martha's favorite things.
Our travels continue tomorrow. Thanks for joining us and now you are on the list of famous people to come to Fort Monroe.
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