The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation advances its mission—"that the future may learn from the past"—through educational programming, preservation, and ongoing research. As a not-for-profit 501(c)3 educational institution and the largest U.S. history museum, Colonial Williamsburg is dedicated to researching and sharing the fascinating stories of those who built America, including people of all backgrounds. By doing so, we deepen our understanding of history and contribute to our nation's ongoing effort to build a more perfect union.

The Foundation's world-class resources reflect its commitment to scholarship and preservation:

The John D. Rockefeller Jr. Library houses five main collections—Reference and Circulating Collections, Corporate Archives, Media Collections, Special Collections, and the Visual Resources Collection. Whether you're a historian, student, museum professional, independent scholar, artist, interpreter, or simply curious about history, our growing collection welcomes all who seek knowledge.

The Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg showcases thousands of objects from the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum and the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum. These collections include fine, decorative, mechanical, and folk art, displayed through innovative and evolving exhibitions that bring history to life.

Through these resources and ongoing efforts, Colonial Williamsburg continues to inspire, educate, and connect visitors to America's rich and complex history.