Visitors of Yorktown were transported back in time this weekend to witness 18th-century tradesmen at work while the Hermione docked on the waterfront.
The 18th-century tall French ship drew thousands to Historic Yorktown on Saturday, with tickets to tour the ship running out in the early afternoon and lines snaking outside of almost every restaurant on Riverwalk Landing.
Merchants from around Virginia set up camp along Yorktown’s green, displaying their craftsmanship.
After touring the ship, visitors could view blacksmiths at work, talk to a ship’s surgeon, get a taste of artisan bread and pastries and get a detailed account of Marquis de Lafayette, the Frenchman who sailed on the Hermione in 1780 to join General George Washington in the fight against the British.
The festivities continue today, with free public deck tours of the Hermione beginning at 9 a.m. and re-enactor demonstrations, music and Virginia’s finest fair happening throughout the day.
Related Coverage:
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- Photo Gallery: Hermione Arrival and a Tour of the Ship
- In Past Life, Hermione Made Legendary Journey and Fought in Several Battles
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- Hermione Comes to Yorktown: Visitors’ Guide
- Yorktown Businesses Prepare for Thousands of People Expected for L’Hermione
- Hermione Comes to Yorktown: Events Guide
- Hermione Arrival Will Close Street in Yorktown
- Additional Security Expected for L’Hermione Weekend in Yorktown
- Parking Secured for Thousands Expected to Greet L’Hermione in Yorktown
- French Volunteer Helps Bring the ship Hermione to Yorktown
- Volunteers Needed for Arrival of Hermione in Yorktown
- Track L’Hermione on Its Journey to Yorktown
- Yorktown to be First Port-of-Call for Replica Revolutionary Warship of Marquis de Lafayette
