The theme of Jamestown Settlement’s “Bartering for a Continent: How Anglo-Indian Trade Shaped America” special exhibition is reflected in a trio of lectures to be presented at 4 p.m. on Thursdays, September 15, 22 and 29, in Jamestown Settlement’s Robins Foundation Theater.
The exhibition, which opened June 4 and continues through December 10, explores the story of trade between American Indians and English colonists, from the founding of Jamestown through the American Revolution, and the role of Virginia in the development of a new world of exchange in goods and commodities across the North American continent. Artifacts from private and public collections are on exhibit, including 17th- and 18th-century firearms typical of those used in the fur trade during 1650-1800, peace medals used in diplomatic relations, and English trade beads, tools and household items traded for animal pelts. The special exhibition also provides an opportunity for visitors to take part in the trading adventure and test their bartering skills.
September 15: In “Before & After – The Effect on Indian Trade of the Arrival of the English,” Terry Bond, a historical interpreter at Jamestown Settlement, will discuss the evolution of trade among American Indian tribes, from local products in the early 17th century to mostly European goods by the end of the century, and the impact on intertribal relationships.
September 22: In “Scarlet Cloth and Tinsel Lace: The Political and Cultural Significance of Chiefs’ Coats,” Mark Hutter, a journeyman tailor and supervisor in the Colonial Williamsburg Department of Historic Trades and Skills, will explore the use and meaning of “chiefs’ coats” during political negotiations between colonial governments and American Indians throughout the 18th century.
September 29: Jamestown Settlement historical interpreters Carol Wiers and Vincent Petty will examine how the value of objects and labor was determined in Anglo-Indian exchanges in “What Do I Get for a Buck? – The Social and Economic Value of Trade in the 17th Century.”
Lectures are included with admission to Jamestown Settlement: $17.00 for adults and $8.00 for ages 6 through 12, and free to residents of James City and York counties and the City of Williamsburg, including College of William and Mary students, with proof of residency. Advance reservations are recommended by calling (757) 253-4572 or emailing rsvp@jyf.virginia.gov.
In addition, visitors can pre-register for a two-hour basket workshop at 12:30 p.m. on September 15, 22 and 29 to discover the process of making twined baskets and take one home. Workshops are $20 per person in addition to museum admission and limited to 15 participants.
“Bartering for a Continent: How Anglo-Indian Trade Shaped America” special exhibition is funded in part with a grant from James City County.
Jamestown Settlement, located at State Route 31 and the Colonial Parkway (2110 Jamestown Road) is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For more information, call (757) 253-4838 or visit http://www.historyisfun.org/jamestown-settlement/bartering-for-a-continent/bartering-lectures/.