Explore the Powhatan way of life in our re-creation of Paspahegh Town

The Paspahegh were one of the 30-plus Algonquian-speaking tribal groups that belonged to the Powhatan paramount chiefdom. We have based our re-creation on archaeological findings at a nearby site along the James River, oral tradition from Virginia's state and federally recognized tribes, and descriptions and illustrations recorded by English colonists in the 17th century.

Among a wooded clearing of reed-covered houses dotted with cooking circles, fields and a ceremonial circle of carved wooden posts, discover the traditional culture of Indigenous men, women and children in Tsenacommacah, the Powhatan name for this land. Inside expansive exhibition galleries, you can view a scale model of Paspahegh along with a collection of artifacts donated by the Governor’s Land Association.

In Paspahegh Town, costumed historical interpreters discuss and demonstrate traditional Powhatan cultural activities, such as hunting, fishing, gathering, growing and preparing food, processing animal hides, making pottery and weaving with natural fibers. Historical interpreters demonstrate how a dugout canoe was made using Powhatan techniques and the craft of feather weaving to create a warm garment.

Learn how these cultural elements have remained a vital part of Virginia's Indigenous communities today.

Explore Paspahegh Town - get your tickets today!

More to see and learn at Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown