• Governor’s Palace - 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.
• James Geddy House - 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.
• Peyton Randolph House - 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.
• Raleigh Tavern - 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.

• Souvenir button
• All fees and/or taxes

• Gratuities

Join this engaging 1-hour walking tour to explore the intricacies of Virginia’s quest for independence from England. Uncover the obstacles faced by the members of the House of Burgesses as they made the momentous decision to declare Virginia’s independence, and see how this crucial choice impacted the Continental Congress in Philadelphia.

Please note: Tours may not be available on certain days due to staff involvement in other events. For more details, please visit our website.

*Shades of Our Past is not associated with Colonial Williamsburg; therefore, this tour does not include access or admission to buildings owned by Colonial Williamsburg. As the tour takes place on the streets of Colonial Williamsburg, it is dependent on weather conditions. Please be prepared for any weather.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.