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

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.

1. 1

   Bruton Parish Episcopal Church

   10 min

   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.

2. 2

   George Wythe House

   10 min

   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.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   10 min

   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.

4. 4

   Governor's Palace

   10 min

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

5. 5

   Colonial Williamsburg’s Merchants Square

   10 min

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

6. 6

   Wren Building

   10 min

   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.

• 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

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