Imagine taking your student group on a trip back in time. Not only to stroll past historic buildings, but to become immerged in CC by engaging and interacting with real-live people portraying people of the past, and teaching history through the demonstrations and reenactments and stories of our struggles to become Americans. Colonial Williamsburg offers visitors unique opportunities to discover 18th-century life in colonial Virginia. By visiting this beautifully restored 18th-century town, you have the opportunity to learn firsthand, about the roots of American independence.
Williamsburg was the political, social and cultural capital of Great Britain’s largest, wealthiest and most populous colony. The Hall of the House of Burgesses at the Capitol echoes with the voices of Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry and other Virginia leaders who debated the issues of freedom and liberty for Virginians.
Stores, shops and taverns along Duke of Gloucester Street, the main thoroughfare, bustle with activity. Stop in at the Pasteur and Galt Apothecary Shop and learn about the latest 18th-century health care techniques. At the Golden Ball Silversmith Shop, watch skilled craftspeople turn bars of silver into goblets, pitchers, and other exquisite objects. The silversmith is one of nearly two dozen trades that demonstrate the daily work of many 18th-century working Americans. At the Courthouse, you might be invited to be a witness, defendant or judge in a re-creation of a court case from the 1700s. And while you are there, don’t forget to have your picture taken in the stocks or pillory!
Across the street is the Magazine, scene of the Gunpowder Incident of April 1775, in which British marines removed the colony’s powder under orders from Lord Dunmore. This incident galvanized the colonists and threatened to launch Virginia into war. Learn about the life of an 18th-century soldier. At the Magazine you may be enlisted to join Williamsburg’s independent company, given a “weapon” and drilled in the finer points of marching.
Find yourself fully in the colonial past as you learn an 18th-century dance, take part in a witch trial or march with the Fifes and Drums. And, go behind the scenes with curators and gardeners. Young visitors will especially enjoy the James Geddy House and Foundry, where they learn about 18th-century family life and household activities from costumed interpreters their own age. They may even be invited to try their hand at writing with a quill pen or playing a colonial game.
Before your school group visits, please be sure to visit our web site for tips to make your visit a special, engaging and safe visit. We look forward to seeing you. Group pricing is available. To plan a trip or make reservations, call 1-800-361-7241 or visit colonialwilliamsburg.com/grouptours
