colonial period, ca. 1600-1775

Relates the history of the colony of New York from its founding by the Dutch in 1609 to statehood in 1788.

Arriving in New England in 1637, William is determined to recreate his home in England but realizes that the climate requires modifications to it.

Introduces the history of blacksmithing and discusses the techniques, products, well-known blacksmiths, and commercial importance of this trade in colonial America.

Describes the enterprise and commercial development that peddlers brought to the colonies before the establishment of general stores.

Traces the history of shipbuilding in the American colonies and describes each step in the building of an eighteenth-century ship.

Presents background information on cloth making in the colonies and describes the various techniques involved.

Describes how four staples--candles, soap, brooms, and cider--were made in colonial times.

Surveys the history and technique of shoemaking in colonial America.

Describes some of the foods prepared in the various areas of what would become the United States during the colonial period. Includes recipes.

Examines the art of the silversmith in colonial times.