Tradition for a Modern World.
Feature: Colonial Williamsburg Museum and Foundation, Williamsburg, Virginia
But how do we make products for today? No skimping on style, vibrancy of color and everything with a story. Then there is authenticity. Williamsburg’s tagline is “Trend Meets Tradition”. Williamsburg presents so many beautiful products for the home derived from their outstanding museum collections. Mottahedeh is a leader in exact reproductions, as well as adaptations for today.
Chelsea Bird with Lexington Empire Green and Daphne Atoll
Expressing living history at Colonial Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg is a living history village. It was created to preserve and present Colonial American lifestyle and buildings. Tourism in Virginia is shared with Jamestown and Yorktown. Williamsburg is one of the largest historical preservation projects in the country with close to 70,000 visitors per year since its creation in the 1920s. As showcase of early American culture, Williamsburg has been the backdrop for international conferences by U.S. presidents hosting prominent world figures.
The historic district of Williamsburg, Virginia, encompassing 301 acres, the site is populated by many authentic buildings, dating back to the 1700s and earlier. New repro buildings have been added to provide a balanced and realistic glimpse into early American life. Guests can see period clothing, acting, demonstrations, taverns serving typical colonial food, gift shops, performances, and festivals. All this adds to and air of authenticity and a village-style atmosphere.
There is even resident Thomas Jefferson, an actor who personifies his personality and his involvement with original Williamsburg at the time of America’s independence. It is, in short, a living community, completely interesting and lots of fun.
Duke of Gloucester with Chelsea Feather & Lexington Caramel
The Mottahedeh’s connection with Colonial Williamsburg runs deep.
During the late 1970s Mildred Mottahedeh worked closely with former Vice President Nelson Rockefeller to develop and commercialize reproductions of antique world art. In truth, they were buddies. Both had world renowned collections of fine 18th century Chinese export porcelains, of the type widely sought after in the British Colonies. Cementing their relationship was shared vision of entrepreneurship as a way of assisting developing countries become more self-reliant through industry. But this association did not include Colonial Williamsburg at the time.
Nelson Rockefeller’s mother, Abby Aldrich Rockefeller, had a passion for art and antiques and was one of the creators of Williamsburg Museum and the Williamsburg experience herself. She is also credited to be one of the founders of the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
How it Started
In the mid-1920s, Abby and her husband were contacted by Reverend Dr. Goodwin, who was rector of Bruton Parish Church and an instructor at the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. After seeing Dr. Goodwin's restored church, they explored further his concept of a massive restoration of the city to its authentic days prior to the American Revolution, as Williamsburg was the capital of the capital of the Virginia Colony. They became committed to funding the project, which started in 1927.
Virginia Blue with Lexington Azure and Lavande
The result was Colonial Williamsburg; a living history museum which has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world. One of the museums within the complex, the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, is named in her honor.
One person can have an impact and a contribution to the General good.
Mottahedeh’s licensing relationship began in 1989, a decade after Mildred and Nelson’s association ended.
During its nearly century-long existence Colonial Williamsburg has been supported by host of philanthropists and foundations. Prominent among them are the Rockefeller family, the Daughters of the Confederacy, Reservation Virginia, and the local Chamber of Commerce.
Imperial Blue with Azure and Villa Toscana
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Shopping is a novel experience at Colonial Williamsburg.
Here are the companies making unique products for them. All are excellent.
- Carvers’ Guild – fine mirrors
- Caskata Artisanal Home – dinnerware and giftware
- Caspari – paper tabletop, gift wrap, and stationery
- Entryways – handmade coconut fiber doormats
- Focal Point – crown moldings kits
- Friedman Brothers – fine mirrors
- Global Views – furniture and home décor
- Michaelian Home – needlepoint and hooked pillows, kitchen towels, and rag rugs
- Mottahedeh – fine china dinnerware and giftware
- Owen Suter – Reproduction Furniture
- Park Designs – tabletop, table linens, décor, and giftware
- Port 68 – lighting and decorative accessories
- Robert Abbey – floor and table lamps, pendant lighting, and lighting fixtures
- Royal Heritage Home – comforters and matelassé bedding
- Spicher and Company – vinyl floor coverings
- The Magnolia Company – dried wreaths, swags, and garland
- Windham Fabrics – quilt fabric collections
- World Art Group – printed wall art
We hope you get the chance to peruse so many wonderful products available, all with special provenance.
Delve into the origins of our country and learn about the arduous journey in the founding of America where the vision of opportunity and freedom for all is its foundation. Unity is the light that will illuminate the whole world.
