Williamsburg Independence History Walking Tour

Independence from Mother England was not a foregone conclusion as we've been taught. Many questioned what American Independence would mean. For the colony of Virginia, it was a very difficult decision. During this one-hour walking tour discover how and why the men of the House of Burgesses finally decided to declare independence for Virginia and how their 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.

Meeting Point

Bruton Parish Episcopal Church

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

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.

What's included:

• Souvenir button

Not included:

• Admission to Colonial Williamsburg. Single day tickets are $49. 99 for adults; $28.99 ages 6-12.
• Gratuities

What to expect:

Duration: 1 hour

Governor's Palace

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

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

James Geddy House

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

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

Peyton Randolph House

100 W Nicholson St, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA

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

Raleigh Tavern

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

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