Bush hails Jamestown roots

President Bush on Sunday hailed the nation’s humble beginnings as a reminder that new democracies require huge sacrifices.

“From our own history, we know the path to democracy is long and it’s hard,” Bush said in a ceremony honoring the 400th anniversary of Jamestown, America’s first permanent English colony.

“There are many challenges, and there are setbacks along the way. Yet we can have confidence in the outcome because we’ve seen freedom’s power to transform societies.”

On his first visit to Jamestown as president, Bush soaked in the scene like a tourist -- first watching a dig for artifacts, then climbing aboard a replica of a majestic ship. He even grabbed a baton and playfully led the 400-piece orchestra before heading home.

Speaking where the country’s roots began centuries ago in swampland, Bush said the United States must stand with those struggling to gain their freedom.

“Today, democratic institutions are taking root in places where liberty was unimaginable not long ago,” he said, citing Iraq and Afghanistan. “The advance of freedom is the great story of our time, and new chapters are being written every day.”

Jamestown in 1607 was a grueling commercial venture, and colonists dealt with hunger, violence and hopelessness. But over time, it became a starting point of representative government, free enterprise and cultural diversity.

“It is a chance to renew our commitment to help others around the world realize the great blessings of liberty,” Bush told several thousand people gathered for the celebration.

Earlier, he and First Lady Laura Bush walked the grounds at a leisurely place.

They began with a tour of Historic Jamestowne, where archeologists continue to unearth storied remains. The structure of the settlers’ original triangular fort -- long thought to have been washed way -- has been recovered.

Bush marveled at a new find: a hilt basket, which is a hand guard that goes around a sword’s handle. The item was discovered the day Queen Elizabeth II visited Jamestown recently and was excavated Sunday, said National Park Service spokesman Mike Litterst.

Bush then strolled through Jamestown Settlement, where early 17th century living is reenacted.

The Bushes contributed items to a time capsule, to be opened at the next grand celebration, in 50 years. They included a letter from them both, a gold coin and items from the queen’s recent visit to the White House.