Woven through Williamsburg’s past and present are the stories of women bold enough to lead, create, and transform the world. Discover the women behind the area’s storied sites, from trailblazers who shaped history to creators redefining art. Then continue your journey through the area’s women-owned galleries, shops, and restaurants.
Notable Women in Williamsburg History
Step back in time to discover the women who made history here. Their stories – tales of survival, skill, and devotion – come alive in the region’s landmarks, museums, and attractions, inviting you to engage with and experience their lasting impact firsthand.
Pocahontas
Visit Jamestown Settlement to explore the life of Pocahontas, daughter of Powhatan who was the supreme chief of more than 30 coastal Virginia tribes. She helped build bridges between cultures, shaped early diplomacy, and became known for her marriage to John Rolfe. Through fascinating exhibits including an interactive table inspired by a pop-up book, you can learn about Pocahontas’ influential role in early Virginia and her legacy in American history.
Cockacoeske
Queen Cockacoeske, leader of the Pamunkey Tribe, was known for her resilience and diplomacy as she navigated the onslaught of Bacon’s Rebellion and helped secure peace through the Treaty of Middle Plantation. Her story offers a rare Indigenous perspective on colonial Virginia’s early history. Learn more about Cockacoeske, who ruled until her death in 1686, when you visit Jamestown and Colonial Williamsburg.
Angela
Angela, a Black woman listed in the 1625 Virginia census, was among the first Africans brought to Virginia after being captured in Angola and transported overseas. Enslaved by Jamestown planter William Pierce, she lived and worked in his household. Though records fall silent after 1625, recent archaeological discoveries at the Pierce site offer new insights into her life and legacy. Explore the mystery of Angela at Historic Jamestowne.
Anne Burras Laydon
Discover the story of Anne Burras Laydon, who after arriving in 1608 as a 14-year-old maidservant, endured Jamestown’s harsh early years. She married John Laydon in the colony’s first wedding. Her life of resilience, family, and survival offers a window into the challenges of Virginia’s earliest settlers.
Christina Campbell
Head to Christiana Campbell’s Tavern in Colonial Williamsburg to learn about one of the most prominent 18th-century tavern keepers. Campbell provided “genteel accommodations” to notable guests, including George Washington, and supported the education of enslaved Black children. Her story highlights entrepreneurship and the social life of colonial Williamsburg.
Ann Wager
Ann Wager dedicated her life to education at the Williamsburg Bray School, one of the earliest institutions dedicated to Black education in North America. She taught enslaved and free Black children over the course of 14 years, instructing around 400 students while raising her own family. Wager’s work created early educational opportunities in colonial Virginia.
Sarah Osborn
Sarah Osborn supported the American Army during the Revolutionary War by traveling with her husband Aaron. She cooked, mended, and organized meals for troops. Her courage and dedication highlighted the critical and often overlooked contributions of women in America’s fight for independence. Learn more about Sarah Osborn at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.
Local Women Artists of Yesterday & Today
Long before Williamsburg became known as a modern arts destination, women carved out a place for creativity, and their influence is still shaping the region’s story.
Clementina Rind
Clementina Rind emerged as one of colonial Virginia’s most influential voices when she took over the Virginia Gazette in 1773, after her husband passed away. Since she was a widow, she navigated the rare space where women could own and operate a business and conduct legal affairs. Though her career was brief, Rind’s leadership helped position Williamsburg as a vital source of information.
Abby Aldrich Rockefeller
Abby Aldrich Rockefeller influenced local culture by celebrating American folk art at a time when it was overlooked. Her visionary collection became the foundation of the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, the nation's oldest institution dedicated to preserving, collecting, and exhibiting American folk art. Through her gifts to the Ludwell-Paradise House at Colonial Williamsburg in 1938 and her passion for supporting emerging artists, she ensured that folk art would remain pivotal to the region.
Today, women artists continue to craft the next chapter of Williamsburg’s story, whether it be from fashion studios or art galleries.
Tabitha Sewer
Fast forwarding to modern times, local artist Tabitha Sewer exemplifies the multi-dimensional talents and skills of women in Williamsburg. After serving in the US Air Force, Tabitha pursued a creative journey and bought her first sewing machine. Now a sewing and fashion blogger, her passion has grown into a business where she shares her love for sewing and crafts through classes, workshops, and events for both children and adults. She fosters hands-on discovery in Williamsburg’s creative community. Check out her website and Instagram page.
Beverly Burgdorf
Beverly Burgdorf brings art to life at Colonial Folk Art Studio & Gallery, which she founded with her husband to support and work alongside other artists. She loves teaching and watching her clients grow. Her attached gallery, Jux.ta.po.si.tion, showcases local artists’ creations and her own work, which she also sells wholesale nationwide.
Gulay Berryman
The former director of Williamsburg Art Gallery, now a fully online gallery, Gulay Berryman showcases both history and modern expression through her work. Drawing inspiration from the Historic Triangle, she enjoys bringing America's early history to life. She has received multiple international awards and has been invited to exhibit at prestigious art events around the world.
Lori Waters
Abstract painter Lori Waters transforms emotion into color, texture, and movement. Born in Virginia Beach and now living in Williamsburg, she layers paint to evoke reflection and discovery, inviting viewers to pause and reflect. Find her work featured at The Downtown Gallery.
Shop & Dine at Women-Owned Businesses
A journey through Williamsburg’s women-led legacy isn’t complete without exploring its women-owned businesses.
Feel like you’re shopping with friends at Three Sisters Boutique, where every handpicked piece reflects the bond that inspired the shop’s creation. Its sister shop, Three Cabanas, invites you to uncover vintage and modern trends. Round out your shopping spree with footwear for any occasion at The Shoe Attic, plus portrait-ready and playground-ready children’s clothes at The Carousel.
Every great adventure deserves bold flavors, and our women-owned restaurants are ready to fuel your every step. Savor a blend of nostalgia and craftsmanship as you sip fresh-brewed coffee or light bites at Mobjack Coffee Roasters & Petite Café. Order refreshing drinks and tuck into artisan sandwiches or bowls at Coastal Thirst. Or, feast on authentic Thai dishes from rich curries to fresh spring rolls at Thai Tara Sushi & Bar.