RD142 - Annual Report of the Jamestown 2007 Steering Committee


Executive Summary:
May 2006 marked the beginning of events observing a landmark American moment–the 400th anniversary of Jamestown’s founding. Since then the international spotlight has been on the Commonwealth many times. In January 2007, Vice President Dick Cheney addressed a special commemorative meeting of the General Assembly at Historic Jamestowne’s Memorial Church. He noted that “much of America’s story began with a little three-sided fort, raised on the banks of the James River.” That evening, Governor Tim Kaine delivered his State of the Commonwealth message from Jamestown Settlement.

In the past 18 months, Jamestown 2007 has held more than a dozen Signature Events, developed hundreds of statewide and national partnerships, recognized nearly 200 official communities, and compiled a remarkable record of achievement. The commemoration has produced markedly increased visitation with guest attendance up an average of 50% at the Jamestown sites, increased awareness of travel opportunities throughout Virginia, brought international attention to the Commonwealth, and raised understanding of Virginia’s pivotal role in the nation’s history. An economic impact study is being completed that will help us gauge the full benefit of the commemoration.

One of the major highlights of the commemoration was the two-day visit of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh to both Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne, the state Capitol in Richmond and Colonial Williamsburg. The Queen’s visit brought international attention to America’s 400th Anniversary and a heightened sense of excitement that served as a catalyst to Anniversary Weekend culminating with the visits of President George W. Bush, Honorary Chair Sandra Day O’Connor and other distinguished guests during three days of Anniversary programs and events.

This report provides an overview of the programs and events during fiscal year 2007 that have created these accomplishments. -The support of the Governor and the General Assembly has been the underlying element allowing commemoration planners to make America’s 400th Anniversary an international success. With foresight dating back a decade, the Commonwealth has made available the resources necessary to revitalize Jamestown’s story as an integral and important part of the American landscape.

As a representative from St. Augustine, Florida observed, “Jamestown 2007 has raised the bar for everyone planning historical commemorations.” Indeed, the successes of this commemoration have prompted planners of similar events from Plymouth, Santa Fe, Baltimore, Quebec, Vermont and New York to study Jamestown 2007 as a model of what can be achieved.

On behalf of Jamestown 2007 Steering Committee and staff, we thank you for your support of Jamestown 2007 and America’s 400th Anniversary.