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Offered languages
- English
During this 1-hour walking tour, learn the complexities of Virginia's decision to seek independence from England. Discover the challenges faced by the men of the House of Burgesses as they ultimately chose to declare Virginia's independence and learn how this pivotal decision influenced the Continental Congress in Philadelphia.
Please note: Due to staff participation in other events, tours may be unavailable on some days. Please see our website for information.
*Shades of Our Past is not affiliated with Colonial Williamsburg; therefore, this tour does not include entrance or admission into Colonial Williamsburg-owned buildings. Since the tour is through the streets of Colonial Williamsburg, it is weather contingent. Please be prepared for all weather conditions.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
We will meet at the corner of West Duke of Gloucester Street and Palace Green. There will be a sandwich board with a Shades of Our Past logo upon it to indicate where the tour guide is located.
This endpoint will be in front of the Raleigh Tavern. The tour will not return to its starting point.
Itinerary
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1Governor's Palace
Our first stop will be at the top of the Palace Green to discuss the founding of Virginia, its government, and how proud they are to be British subjects.
15 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
2James Geddy House
Our second stop will be on the corner of Palace Green and Nicholson Street, behind the James Geddy House. Here we will discuss the French & Indian War, the economic repercussions, and Parliament's plan for recovery.
15 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
3Peyton Randolph House
At our third stop, we will discuss Peyton Randolph's role in the government, the response of the House of Burgesses to the Boston Tea Party and the Intolerable Acts, and Lord Dunmore's reaction to the House of Burgesses.
15 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
4Raleigh Tavern
At our last stop, we will discuss the Burgesses response to the dissolution of the government, an overview of what led Virginia down the path to independence, including the Virginia Conventions, and Virginia's influence over the Revolution, Independence and future generations.
15 minutes • Admission ticket not included
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Show 1 more
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Show more
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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