About this experience
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.
At a glance
- Duration: 1 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 1 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is included
- Souvenir button
Not included
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
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.
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.
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.
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.
Meeting and pickup information
- 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.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Shades of Our Past
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- 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
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What accessibility information is provided?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
What is the cancellation policy?
Traveller reviews and photos
Traveller experiences load when you reach this section.
