Murder, Mayhem, and Scandal: 1-hour Historical Character Tour *FOR MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY*
5.0
9 Ratings
Williamsburg
Explore 18th-Century Williamsburg's dark side with tales of murder, mayhem, and scandal. A unique, mature-audience tour through history's shadows.
Duration: 1 hour
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • East Nicholson Street - This is the location of the Public Gaol (Jail). The story will revolve around the trial of Blackbeard’s pirates, or other trials held in the Capitol Building.
  • R. Charlton’s Coffeehouse - The discussion point will be about the Col. George Mercer Stamp Act Incident.
  • Chiswell Bucktrout House - The story will revolve around the sensational Col. John Chiswell case.
  • Raleigh Tavern Bakery - The story will revolve around different scandals you may have heard at the tavern.
What's Included
  • Souvenir button
  • All fees and/or taxes
What's Not Included
  • Admission to Colonial Williamsburg. Single day tickets are $49. 99 for adults; $28.99 for ages 6-12.
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

FOR MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY

During this one-hour walking tour, hear the darker side of 18th-Century Williamsburg. Stories of murder, mayhem, and scandal–those things talked about in taverns, back alleys, and the courts–straight from the town’s citizens. Each tour will be different and the stories are a-plenty.

Due to the sensitive nature of the subjects and the salty language of the time, this tour is recommended for mature audiences 17 and older. Please note, that since every tour is different, the routes advertised may also differ.

Shades of Our Past is not affiliated with Colonial Williamsburg and, 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.

Location
Capitol Building
East Duke of Gloucester Street
Please meet your tour guide in the circle on Duke of Gloucester Street, directly in front of the Capitol Building by the gate.
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
5.0
(9 Ratings)
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N7497nocb
May 15, 2024
Good mix of history and fun - Beautiful evening in a beautiful setting. Our leader for Murder, Mayhem and scandal was a woman of the time and very knowledgeable. She was able to bring to life actual people who were a part of some trials in life that are not shared in History books!!! Care was given to involve guests in the experience. Wear comfortable shoes and there are areas to sit if need be. Enjoyed it very much!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sallykz2356ab
May 13, 2024
Guided walking tour of Murder, Mayhem and Scandals of Colonial Williamsburg - Murder, Mayhem and Scandals is a delightful hour of intriguing stories of past citizens of Colonial Williamsburg presented by historical interpreter Lee Ann Rose portraying the real life Jane Vobe. As we walked through the streets of Colonial Williamsburg, we would stop at various locations, and with great enthusiasm, Mrs. Rose in the character of the gossiping Jane Vobe would tell us what event happened at that particular location. Stories of Thomas Jefferson, Patrick, Henry, and the local towns people and the Murder, Mayhem and Scandals of the time. Mrs. Rose portrayal of the gossiping Jane Vobe was excellent. She made me feel like I was back in that time period. I would highly recommend this walking tour as it has a little bit of everything to keep you wondering what was going to happen next.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
R7668vosusanb
May 13, 2024
Dinner and a show? We did it all when we opted to take this tour. It made for a most enjoyable evening!! - Our guide, Mrs. Vobe a chirpy citizen of 18th century Williamsburg, appeared as through a time portal, to share stories of whimsy and drama with our circle of friends. She seemed unaware of her 21st century companions differences, as she drew us together to share her juciest prattle. The tour was a 60 minute walk and talk. Mrs Vobe chattered on with a keen awareness of private matters, embarrassing moments and scandalous acts which were taking place in the Capitol City of her day. Delicate listeners were oft times drawn to gasps, as spicey language peppered the monologue. Perhaps not best suited for youngsters. The fun of the tour swells, as do the stories saucy punch lines. At tours end, I was of a mind that the Virginia Gazette likely kept the all-knowing Mrs. Vobe on an 18th century "speed dial". The tour was a fun and informative one -woman show that educated and entertained to our delight!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Doraro11fx
May 13, 2024
Wonderful Historical Tour with a Williamsburg Insider😊 - This was a wonderful historical tour. The guide had us enthralled from the beginning of the tour! A historical tour given in the form of friendly "news sharing aka gossip ". The guide engaged every person in the tour. I learned so many stories that I went home and read up on them. It was wonderful to learn from people who obviously love their job and being able to share historical information in an enjoyable way! A++
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Grace_s
May 9, 2024
Memorable experience! - Highly recommend this tour! Very interesting and engaging. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and relatable. Loved the character sharing the stories in the way the would have been told in the days the events happened.
Review provided by Viator
Josephph6223jz
Apr 16, 2024
Mayhem - I was very pleased with this tour. It was an hour tour went at a great pace and the guide was great. He was in character not just dressed but played the part well. Very informative and knew a lot of gossip for back in that day. Haha I would recommend it.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
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