Author and historian Carson Hudson describes the Golden Age of Piracy, from approximately 1680 to 1730, focusing on the lifestyle of pirates. The presentation looks at the life and reputation of Blackbeard in particular.

Discover more about the notorious Blackbeard by reading this article by George Humphrey Yetter.

Colonial Wiliamsburg Librarian Juleigh Clark describes her research into the events described in Revolutionary-War-era newspapers, both in articles and advertisements.

Note: this podcast is no longer available. To view a transcript of the original podcast, click here.

War creates an industry of its own in every century, calling artisans and inventors to bring forth the best of their craft in the fastest way possible. In the Revolutionary War, this burden lay heavily on metalworkers, whose sword blades and gun barrels were in constant demand. Suzie Dye, a journeyman brass founder, discusses the technology of war in the 18th century, particularly the art of swordmaking.

Click here to discover more about colonial gunsmiths and iron workers.

Marshall Scheetz, an apprentice cooper at Colonial Williamsburg, talks about coopering according to colonial-era practices.

Note: this podcast is no longer available. To view a transcript of the original podcast, click here.

Ken Schwarz, a blacksmith at Colonial Williamsburg, talks about smithing according to colonial-era practices.

Preston Jones, a silversmith at Colonial Williamsburg, talks about the process of making silver pieces according to colonial-era practices.

Christine Trowbridge, master brick maker at Colonial Williamsburg, talks about the process of making bricks according to colonial-era practices.

Pete Stinely, a printer at Colonial Williamsburg, talks about the work of printing according to colonial-era practices.

Ed Chappell, director of architectural research at Colonial Williamsburg, talks about the research required to restore buildings to their colonial-era state, and how perception of how a building should be restored and presented changes over time and with the appearance of new information.

Al Saguto, a shoemaker at Colonial Williamsburg, talks about making shoes according to colonial-era practices.