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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.
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15 min
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 min
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 min
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 min
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.
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.
End Point
This endpoint will be in front of the Raleigh Tavern. The tour will not return to its starting point.