About this experience
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. Routes may also be changed to accommodate activities in Colonial Williamsburg.
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.
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
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What is included
- Replica World War II Christmas Card to the Troops
Not included
- Gratuities
Itinerary and highlights
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.
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.
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.
Our guide will explore the impact of the war on the citizens of Williamsburg, including holiday tours and the significance of "lights out."
Our guide will explore the various forms of entertainment available to soldiers in Williamsburg, including movies and the USO.
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.
Meeting and pickup information
- We will meet at the corner of Duke of Gloucester Street and Palace Green, in front of the church.
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
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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
What is the cancellation policy?
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