Christmas on the Homefront: A 1-Hour World War II Character Tour

Overview

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.

Itinerary

1. Bruton Parish Episcopal Church

   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.

   · 10 min· Admission not included

2. George Wythe House

   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.

   · 10 min· Admission not included

3. 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.

   · 10 min

4. Governor's Palace

   Our guide will explore the impact of the war on the citizens of Williamsburg, including holiday tours and the significance of "lights out."

   · 10 min· Admission not included

5. Colonial Williamsburg’s Merchants Square

   Our guide will explore the various forms of entertainment available to soldiers in Williamsburg, including movies and the USO.

   · 10 min· Admission not included

6. Wren Building

   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.

   · 10 min· Admission not included

How to use your ticket

This ticket does not grant entry into buildings owned by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. It is valid for this tour only. A detailed final confirmation message will be sent via TripAdvisor/Viator 2-3 hours before the tour start time.

Meeting and end point

What to know before you go

• 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
• You will receive confirmation immediately when you book.

Travelers

Cancellation policy

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

• From 1 days before : 100% refunded
• From 0 days before : 0% refunded

This activity can be canceled in case of bad weather.

Reviews

Product code: 446908P5

Activity offered by Shades of Our Past via Viator.