From the archives: When Wilmington recreated a Colonial Williamsburg shopping village

Just a few years after the United States' Bicentennial, a group of shops emerged near Wilmington that harkened back to the country's history.

According to the Sept. 29, 1979, Wilmington Morning Star, a shopping village meant to reflect the Colonial era opened in Scotts Hill.

The Shops at Liberty Green opened with two stores with plans to build a third. All of the shops were to reflect Williamsburg decor with most specialize in colonial items. The owner said he would be particular about the shops coming in and wouldn't let "something like a television repair shop sneak in."

The first shop specialized in walnut Chippendale mirrors and Williamsburg soaps and candles. Colonial Trimmings was the second store with Williamsburg paints and wallpapers and a picture framing service.

Other plans for Liberty Green included a wine, candy and cheese shop, a glass and ceramics shop, a traditional-type fabrics shop, a tea room and a wool shop with spinning wheels and looms.

Much like all of the Wilmington area, the Scotts Hill of today is seeing more development. However, not all history has been lost along U.S. 17 as Poplar Grove Plantation remains.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: From the archives: When Wilmington recreated a Colonial Williamsburg shopping village