Guide Book to Williamsburg Old and New

After the settlement of Jamestown in 1607 the population of the Virginia Colony gradually spread out from that center until, in 1633, it became desirable to develop farms in the territory between the James and York Rivers, which has ever since been called the Virginia Peninsula. From its position in relation to the rivers, this settlement was named Middle Plantation.

The privilege of dwelling in this district was granted by the colonial legislature on condition that a Palisade be erected to keep out the Indians. This palisade extended from Queen’s Creek, which empties into the York River, to Archer’s Hope Creek (now called College Creek), which is a tributary of the James. This palisade was kept in repair until 1710.

At present, only two buildings remain which were here in the 17th century: the Galt House on Francis Street and the main building of the College.