Secret Lives on Colonial Women

Williamsburg, Virginia, is a town brimming with stories of history, revolution, and tradition. While many visitors focus on the grand political events or the colonial architecture, this tour offers a fresh perspective by shining a light on the women who quietly shaped the community’s development. For $25 per person, you’ll spend around 1 hour 45 minutes exploring Uptown Williamsburg, guided by a knowledgeable storyteller who brings these fascinating characters to life.

What makes this tour particularly engaging? First, we love how it reveals the hidden roles women played—from midwives and schoolmistresses to society’s gatekeepers and behind-the-scenes political influencers. Second, the stories of enslaved cooks working alongside the Founders and actresses breaking societal norms offer a glimpse into the diverse, often overlooked lives of colonial women.

A potential consideration? While the guide is praised for her knowledge, some reviews suggest the storytelling might not fully align with the title, “Secret Lives of Colonial Women,” so if you’re expecting a highly mysterious or secretive narrative, you might find the focus more on social influence and community roles.

This experience suits history buffs who enjoy authentic stories beyond the typical tour, as well as anyone interested in women’s history or cultural insights into colonial society. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to see Williamsburg from a different angle—one that celebrates the women whose contributions often went unnoticed.

Key Points

• Focus on women’s roles across social, political, and community spheres in colonial Williamsburg.
• Insightful storytelling by a guide well-versed in local history.
• Affordable and brief, making it easy to fit into a Williamsburg itinerary.
• Visually engaging walk through historic Uptown Williamsburg.
• Includes a traditional guided tour but excludes gratuities, so tipping is optional.
• Suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals or using public transportation.

Exploring Williamsburg’s Women: What to Expect

Williamsburg’s colonial era is often associated with founding fathers and revolutionary battles, but this tour shifts focus to the women whose lives intertwined with those grand events. Spanning three centuries, the tour’s narrative explores how women influenced society, politics, medicine, and culture—sometimes behind the scenes, sometimes front and center.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at Bruton Parish Episcopal Church, a site that itself speaks to the era’s social fabric. From there, we walk through Uptown Williamsburg, where each stop reveals a different story:

• The Midwife: An essential figure in colonial towns, this woman provided more than health care; she was a trusted community member. We learned that her knowledge and care were vital to the local population, especially given the limited medical resources of the time.

• The Schoolmistress: Educating future leaders, her role extended beyond teaching; she helped shape the minds that would eventually govern and lead. The story underscores the importance of women in education, often overlooked historically.

• The Governor’s Lady: As the wife of Williamsburg’s governor, she maintained societal standards and hosted influential gatherings. Her story highlights the social expectations and pressures placed on women of high status while also hinting at their subtle political influence.

• The Councillor’s Wife: From behind her social façade, she played a part in shaping political circles, illustrating how women often wielded power indirectly.

• The Enslaved Cook: This remarkable woman worked closely with the Founders, showcasing resilience, skill, and the often unrecognized contributions of enslaved individuals in colonial society.

• Actresses and Society Breakers: Women who stepped outside societal norms, entertaining and inspiring others, breaking barriers in a patriarchal society.

The Experience and Guide

The guide, Lisa, is praised for her well-informed commentary. While some reviews note that her storytelling may not always perfectly match the “secret” aspect of the title, her insights into women’s community roles are engaging. Her knowledge brings historical context, helping us understand how these women’s lives intersected with some of the most significant events of the era.

This tour is a walking experience, so comfortable shoes are recommended, and its timing at 2:00 pm allows for a leisurely exploration without feeling rushed. The group size is capped at 30, fostering an intimate atmosphere where questions are encouraged.

Practical Details

• Price: $25 per person offers good value for this focused, storytelling experience.
• Duration: Around 1 hour 45 minutes—long enough to get depth without fatigue.
• Meeting Point: Starts at Bruton Parish Church, easily accessible via public transportation or walking from other Williamsburg sites.
• Inclusions: Guided walk through historic Williamsburg, but tips are not included, so consider tipping your guide if you enjoyed the experience.
• Weather: The tour is outdoors and weather-dependent; a rainy day might require rescheduling or cancellation.

Authenticity and Value

What sets this tour apart is its authentic storytelling. Unlike large bus tours, this walk offers a chance to see Williamsburg through the lens of ordinary and extraordinary women. The guide’s articulate narration makes these stories feel alive, connecting past struggles and triumphs to the present.

At $25, it’s a modest investment compared to other Williamsburg experiences. The focus on women’s influence and stories adds a layer of depth often missing in traditional colonial tours, making it worth considering for history enthusiasts, women’s studies students, or anyone curious about the everyday lives behind historical events.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

One guest notes, “While the guide was knowledgeable and interesting, her commentary didn’t seem to go with the title, ‘Secret Lives of Colonial Women,’” highlighting that the stories shared emphasize public roles and societal influence over clandestine or hidden activities. The authenticity and depth of these stories compensate for any mismatch in expectations.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is a great choice if you want to deepen your understanding of colonial Williamsburg beyond the typical sights. It’s especially suited for those interested in women’s history or social roles of the period. Families with older children, history buffs, and culturally curious travelers will find it a rewarding addition to their Williamsburg visit.

If you prefer a more mysterious or ghostly experience, you might want to consider one of the haunted ghost tours. But for a thoughtful, well-guided look at the lives of women who shaped colonial society, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and there are no age restrictions specified. However, younger children might lose interest during the walking and storytelling segments, so it’s best for older children or teenagers.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, making it manageable for most schedules and stamina levels.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Bruton Parish Episcopal Church at 2:00 pm, an easily accessible location in Williamsburg.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is often booked 42 days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended to secure your spot.

What’s included?
A guided walk through historic Williamsburg. Tips and gratuities are not included.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate, but the content is historical and may be best appreciated by older children or adults interested in history.

Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re eager to see Williamsburg through a fresh lens, this tour offers compelling stories of women who helped shape colonial society. It’s a well-paced, affordable experience that highlights their influence in politics, community life, and the arts—all told by a knowledgeable guide who makes history engaging.

While it may not unveil secret underground plots or clandestine affairs, it reveals a different kind of influence—one of resilience, skill, and societal shaping. Perfect for history lovers, cultural explorers, and those wanting to understand the often-unseen forces behind foundational moments in American history.

In summary, this tour offers a genuine and engaging perspective on colonial Williamsburg’s women, enriching your understanding of the community’s development through heartfelt stories and insightful narration. For travelers looking for authentic, story-driven history that celebrates diversity and resilience, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Williamsburg itinerary.