Jamestown is a historic place in the United States and is widely known for being the first English settlement in America. Despite its fame, there are still many things about Jamestown that are unknown to most people. In this article, we will uncover five surprising facts about Jamestown that you didn’t know.
1. The Origin of Jamestown:
Many of us might think that Jamestown was named after James I, the king of England. However, that is not entirely true. Jamestown was actually named after King James’ father, Charles I.
2. Jamestown Wasn’t the First Attempt at English Settlement:
Before the establishment of Jamestown, English explorers had made several attempts to settle in the area. In 1584, Sir Walter Raleigh attempted to establish an English colony on Roanoke Island. However, the colony vanished without a trace. Another attempt was made in 1602 by Bartholomew Gosnold to establish a colony on Cuttyhunk Island, but it only lasted for a few weeks.
3. The Land Wasn’t Ideal for Farming:
The settlers of Jamestown faced many challenges in growing crops due to the poor quality of soil. Additionally, the area was infested with mosquitoes, which spread diseases like malaria and yellow fever. The settlers suffered severely from these diseases, and many died as a result.
4. Jamestown is Home to America’s First Public School:
In 1619, an Englishman named William Codd established America’s first public school in Jamestown. The school was primarily meant to educate the children of the wealthy settlers.
5. Jamestown is Home to the Oldest Protestant Church in America:
The Historic Jamestown Church was built in 1639 and is the oldest Protestant Church in America. The church was restored in the 1900s and is open to the public for worship.
Conclusion:
Jamestown is a fascinating place with a rich history. There are still many unexplored aspects of it that we may never know. These facts prove that there’s always more to discover about the places we thought we knew. From the origin of its name to intriguing historical structures, Jamestown continues to surprise and amaze visitors with its hidden gems.
