Treasures from Swem Library's Special Collections Vault In-Person
Explore the stories behind rare books, letters, diaries, photographs, maps, and other remarkable items from the Special Collections Research Center in the Earl Gregg Swem Library at William & Mary for an open house of treasures at the James City County Library, 7770 Croaker Road. Drop in between 11am-2pm to view selected materials up close, learn how they illuminate local and regional history, and talk with staff about how these unique collections are preserved and used for research. Highlights include the Frenchman’s Maps of Williamsburg from 1782, a hand drawn map of Jamestown Island during the Civil War, a first edition of the Book of Mormon, letters and documents from our Founding Fathers and Mothers, a 1700’s James City Legal Form book, and letters by the Marquis de Lafayette during the American Revolution. This welcoming event is open to anyone curious about the past and the fascinating objects that help bring it to life.
- Date:
- Saturday, Aug 15 2026
- Time:
- 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
- Time Zone:
- Eastern Time - US & Canada (change)
- Location:
- Grace & Stanley Kitzinger Community Room
- Building:
- James City County Library (7770 Croaker Road)
- Audience:
- Adults Age 18 or older
- Categories:
- Self-Directed Workshops