Water Wells

 

"The early wells were hand dug, usually round, though there were some large wells that were dug in a square shape. They varied from three to four feet in diameter up to as large as ten feet or more. They had to be at least big enough for a man to swing a pick. The depth of the wells varied from home to home. Sometimes the settler could go twelve feet and have a good water supply, and other times he might have to go down a hundred feet. He would dig until he hit a seep or a stream of underground water which would supply his need. Then the hole was rocked up to hold and protect the water." -- 'Well, Well, Well" by Joe Jeffrey 

Spring Garden

 

One of my favorite Colonial Williamsburg gardens, especially during the spring season.

Hedges

 

In colonial times, and in many gardens today, hedges were used to outline a garden. These were used often as natural fences as well as used for their beauty. In Virginia, boxwoods were a very popular shrub used. A popular use, if one had the money, was to cultivate a maze or labyrinth. 

Well-tended shrubbery presented a place for private conversations and good hiding places for children's games. One could relax in the shade, or follow a trail to the rest of the garden. 

However, because plants like these tended to grow copiously, it was important to keep them in check. Every place a person went, these plants could be seen and recognized." -- National Park Service