Williamsburg World War II Historical Character Tour

Be transported back to Williamsburg in 1943 in this 1-hour character tour. Learn how the citizens of the town are dealing with rationing, blackout drills, and all the new servicemen in town during the Holiday season.
Please note that each tour is unique, so the advertised routes may vary. You will be guided through town by either a USO Hostess or an Air Raid Warden. However, for evening tours, the guide will solely be an Air Raid Warden.

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.

Please be aware that due to staff participation in other events, tours may be unavailable on certain days. For details about these programs, please visit our website.

Meeting Point

Bruton Parish Episcopal Church

201 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA

We will meet at the corner of Duke of Gloucester Street and Palace Green, in front of the church.

What's included:

• Replica World War II Christmas Card to the Troops

Not included:

• Gratuities

What to expect:

Duration: 1 hour

Bruton Parish Episcopal Church

201 W Duke of Gloucester St, (Next to Palace Green), Williamsburg, 23185-4201, Virginia

Our guide will discuss the roles of churches and other organizations, as well as the citizens of Williamsburg, in housing troops and serving as observation locations for spotting planes.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included

George Wythe House

Palace Green Street, Williamsburg, 23185, Virginia

Our guide will discuss the origins of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and its commitment to the military, including classes for the military on the topic of liberty.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included

Governor's Palace

300 Palace Green St, Colonial Williamsburg, Williamsburg, 23185, Virginia

Our guide will explore the impact of the war on the citizens of Williamsburg, including holiday tours and the significance of "lights out."

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included

West Duke of Gloucester Street

W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA

In front of the Custis Tenement, our guide will discuss the impacts of segregation and the contributions of the African American community during the war, including the culinary talents of Lena Richards at the Travis House.

10 minutes

Colonial Williamsburg’s Merchants Square

134 N Henry St, Williamsburg, 23185-4138, Virginia

Our guide will explore the various forms of entertainment available to soldiers in Williamsburg, including movies and the USO.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included

Our guide will describe the contributions of the College of William and Mary during the war, including offering housing to military spouses, holiday fund drives, and providing junior hostesses for the USO.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included