We Shall Overcome: A Williamsburg Black History Experience

4.8 (111 reviews) 2 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

111 reviews

4.8

Delve deep into the annals of time with our thought-provoking and insightful history tours. — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

History comes to life in vivid detail on our meticulously curated and guided tours. — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Come on to our history of black Americans tour presented by Junket!

We often learn the history and stories of heroes of the American Revolution and the early history of America. What isn't often covered in history classes and history books is the story of African Americans who were enslaved during this time. On this unique tour, we'll discover the stories of African Americans who lived and worked in Colonial Williamsburg. From the slaves buried in the graveyard of the Historic First Baptist Church, to the woman who left property to her freed black servants, you'll uncover the untold stories of the oppressed, and their path to freedom.

Private and Luxury Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Excellent Quality Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate Short term availability Weather Dependent - Low

At a glance

Duration: 2 hours
Confirmation: Confirmed within 48 hours
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 20 people
People per booking: 1–20
Guide: English
Operated by: Junket: Williamsburg Premium Walking Tours and Experiences

Ages: Children (0–12 years) · Adults (13–100 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Thoroughly researched and accurate history
Included: Professional and courteous guide

Not included

Not included: Transportation

Itinerary

Stop 1

10 min

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
Brickhouse Tavern Williamsburg

10 min

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
George Wythe House

10 min

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
Governor's Palace

10 min

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
Stop 5

10 min

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
Stop 6

10 min

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
Stop 7

10 min

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
Stop 8

10 min

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

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

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

End point

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