We Shall Overcome: A Williamsburg Black History Experience

Williamsburg, US
91% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (48 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Thoroughly researched and accurate history
  • inclusion
    Professional and courteous guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Transportation

Meeting Point

Meet your tour guide in front of the Kimball Theatre. Your guide will be wearing a white Junket t-shirt and holding a yellow flag. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the tour.

Meeting point

428 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA 23185 , United States

End point

End Point

Meet your tour guide in front of the Kimball Theatre. Your guide will be wearing a white Junket t-shirt and holding a yellow flag. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the tour.

Meeting point

428 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA 23185 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

The Historic First Baptist Church-Nassau Street Archaeology Project

Learn the history of this church that was attended by several slave owners. Several slaves are buried in the church's graveyard. Bonus Tour Inside Church: Only available Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Subject to availability

Duration 10 minutes
2

Brickhouse Tavern Williamsburg

This historic building, now a tavern, once held the first African American lawyers office. Discover the history of its barrier-breaking owner. *We only stay outside the attraction

Duration 10 minutes
3

George Wythe House

The man this home is named after, George Wythe, owned slaves. Despite this, his slaves were loyal to him, and discovered a plot to assassinate him. *We only stay outside the attraction

Duration 10 minutes
4

Governor's Palace

During the American Revolution, there was debate over the role of African Americans. A British official in Virginia, Lord Dunmore, issued a proclamation that, if slaves would fight for the British, they would be freed. *We only stay outside the attraction

Duration 10 minutes
5

Peyton Randolph House

Some colonists weren't sympathetic to the plight of slaves at all. The lady of the house here is a prime example of this. Discover the truth of the ownership of slaves here. *We only stay outside the attraction

Duration 10 minutes
6

Raleigh Tavern

After Lord Dunmore issued the proclamation promising freedom in return for siding with the British, the colonists met to consider their response. Uncover the truth of the First Virginia Convention. *We only stay outside the attraction

Duration 10 minutes
7

Mary Stith House

The daughter of the president of the College of William & Mary, Mary Stith was "ahead of her time". She lived to see America's independence established, and left most of her property to her freed black servants. *We only stay outside the attraction

Duration 10 minutes
8

Colonial Williamsburg Courthouse

This courthouse is where slaveowners filed the bill of sale for the slaves they purchased. Discover the process of recovering fugitive slaves. *We only stay outside the attraction

Duration 10 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Junket: Williamsburg Premium Walking Tours and Experiences

What our experts say

  • icon
    Arrive 15 minutes early to check in.
  • icon
    Consider visiting nearby Brickhouse Tavern.
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    Public transport options are nearby.
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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    Don't miss the bonus church tour on select days.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the hidden chapters of American history on the "We Shall Overcome: A Williamsburg Black History Experience" tour presented by Junket. While history classes may focus on the heroes of the American Revolution, this unique tour reveals the often overlooked stories of African Americans who lived and worked in Colonial Williamsburg during this time. Delve into the untold narratives of the oppressed and their inspiring journey to freedom.

What to expect?

Prepare to embark on a 120-minute journey of discovery and enlightenment. Throughout the tour, you'll explore significant sites and hear captivating stories that shed light on the lives of African Americans during the colonial era. Uncover the hidden history of the Historic First Baptist Church graveyard, learn about the barrier-breaking owner of a historic tavern, and visit the George Wythe home to uncover a slave-assassination plot. With each step, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by African Americans during this transformative period.

Who is this for?

This tour is for anyone with a thirst for knowledge and a passion for untold stories. History enthusiasts will relish the opportunity to delve into the often-overshadowed lives of African Americans in Colonial Williamsburg. This tour is also a must for those seeking a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of American history. By exploring the experiences of African Americans, we enrich our understanding of the nation's past and present, making this tour perfect for all open-minded individuals.

Why book this?

Immerse yourself in the real stories of African Americans who played vital but often concealed roles in shaping America's history. This tour provides a unique opportunity to challenge traditional narratives and gain a deeper appreciation for the struggles and resilience of enslaved individuals and those who fought for their freedom. Let the passionate and knowledgeable tour guides of Junket lead you through these powerful sites, providing valuable insights and thought-provoking revelations along the way. By participating in this tour, you contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of American history.

Good to know

Join the tour group in front of the Kimball Theatre at Williamsburg's Duke of Gloucester Street. It is essential to arrive at least 10 minutes early to ensure a smooth check-in and a comfortable start to the tour. While some attractions are explored from the outside only, the captivating stories and historical significance remain undiminished. Prepare for a dynamic and engaging exploration of Williamsburg's past, brought to life by expert guides who are equally passionate about history and storytelling.

Reviews

Customers who have taken part in the "We Shall Overcome: A Williamsburg Black History Experience" tour rave about the invaluable insights it provides. One visitor remarked, "This tour exposed me to a part of American history that is often overlooked. It was eye-opening and thought-provoking." Others praised the knowledgeable guides who brought the stories to life with passion and expertise. Explore the untold history of African Americans in Colonial Williamsburg and discover a richer understanding of America's past on this captivating tour.

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