We were pretty excited about the ships.

Today, we drove east to Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in America. A long time ago in 1607, colonists stepped into Virginia and were welcomed by the local Powhatan Indian tribe. You might not have heard of this tribe, but I am going to guess you have heard of Pocahontas.

Pocahontas was the daughter of Powhatan, chief of more 30 tribes in Virginia. Like in the Disney movie she meets Captain John Smith. The 11-year-old Pocahontas saved his life. But later she was captured by the colonists and held for ransom from the Indians. The chief didn't meet all the English demands and eventually relinquished his daughter to the colonists. Pocahontas learned Christian ways, was baptized and given the name Rebecca. She soon fel for Virginian colonist John Rolfe. He was a wealthy tobacco planter. The couple had a son, Thomas, and headed back for England. Pocahontas got ill and soon died in March of 1617 in her early 20s.

Yeah, that story ends a little different in the Disney version.

Disney Pocahontas.

That one came out in 1995, so if I am spoiling for you, well, too bad, you should have already seen it. I am pretty sure I remember sitting in the front rows of the movie theater with my brother and dad for that one. I think this might be the only part my dad remembers.

In the Disney film, Pocahontas and John Smith fall in love. There is lots of drama. No John Rolfe comes up (yeah, tobacco plantation love probably isn't a big seller). She doesn't have a child. She stays in Virginia. She dances around with her long flowing hair, pretty necklace and short skirt (the above photo, well, not so much).

Beyond this crushing Pocahontas news, we had fun exploring the settlement sites and re-enactments. Check out the photos below and my Exploring Jamestown photo album.

This Indian re-enactor had the right idea on this chilly day — load up on the furs.

After the Indian village, we boarded the Susan Constant.

Cole wanted to climb to the top of the ship.

Cole found land, just a bit lower than his desired post.

Here is a shipmate.

Nap time.

James Fort time.

Nice little garden.

This little girl got to scoop hot water into the pot so she could scrub it clean. This family was one of the other few visitors to Jamestown that day. In the summer, I bet this place is all a buzz. It sounds like there are more activities in the warmer months as well.

Cole standing at the chapel pulpit.

Ready to battle.

Not sure you want to take me to battle.

Cole gives armor two thumbs up.

After the museum visit, we drove around the area and ended up walking to the edge of the James River. Pretty view.

Perhaps now I can talk Cole into watching Disney Pocahontas. It's on Netflix.