• Bruton Parish Episcopal Church - The guide will explain the involvement of churches and other organizations, along with Williamsburg’s citizens, in accommodating troops and serving as observation points for aircraft detection.

• George Wythe House - The guide will cover the establishment of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and its dedication to the military, including educational sessions on liberty for military personnel.

• Governor’s Palace - The guide will discuss the war’s effects on Williamsburg’s residents, including holiday tours and the importance of “lights out.”

• West Duke of Gloucester Street - In front of the Custis Tenement, the guide will address the effects of segregation and the African American community’s contributions during the war, highlighting Lena Richards’ culinary skills at the Travis House.

• Merchants Square - The guide will explore the entertainment options available to soldiers in Williamsburg, such as movies and the USO.

• Wren Building - The guide will detail the College of William and Mary’s wartime contributions, including providing housing for military spouses, organizing holiday fund drives, and supplying junior hostesses for the USO.

• Replica World War II Christmas Card to the Troops
• All fees and/or taxes

• Admission to Colonial Williamsburg: $49.99 per adult.
• Gratuities

Step back in time to Williamsburg in 1943 with this engaging 1-hour character tour. Discover how the town’s residents are managing rationing, blackout drills, and the influx of servicemen during the festive season.

Each tour offers a unique experience, so the routes may differ. Participants will be led through the town by either a USO Hostess or an Air Raid Warden. For evening tours, an Air Raid Warden will exclusively guide the tour.

Shades of Our Past is not connected with Colonial Williamsburg, and as such, this tour does not include access to Colonial Williamsburg-owned buildings. The tour takes place on the streets of Colonial Williamsburg and is dependent on weather conditions. Please dress appropriately for the weather.

Please note that tours may not be available on certain days due to staff involvement in other events. For more information about these programs, please visit our website.

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