Private Tour
Murder, Mayhem, and Scandal: 1-hour Historical Character Tour
Overview
Available languages
1 hour
Mobile ticket
*FOR MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY-AGES 17 +*
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.
Please note: Due to staff participation in other events, tours may be unavailable on some days. Please see our website for information.
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.
Additional Info
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
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Souvenir button
Gratuities
What To Expect
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.
The discussion point will be about the Col. George Mercer Stamp Act Incident.
Options
Murder, Mayhem, and Scandal: 1-hour Historical Character Tour
Reviews
68 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Well organized, with...
Jan S,
Nov 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Well organized, with clear communication up front. Passionate, knowledgable, engaged host and guide. Enjoyed every minute of the tour, despite the cold night.
A fun nighttime tour for adults.
Madamhooch,
Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I really enjoyed this nighttime tour! LeeAnn portrayed Mrs. Goosely who was apparently the town gossip. She knew all the shady goings-on in Williamsburg in the 18th century. These were REAL fact-based stories. I've taken plenty of tours in Williamsburg and heard about things I've never heard before! It was a lot of fun! I would recommend it for adults, though due to adult topics.
Great experience!
Curious92250,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent storytelling combined with good history lessons not found everywhere. This tour is one of the best I’ve taken part in.
A Great tour.
williampD3387JY,
Oct 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was an excellent tour, very interesting and informative. Mr. Michael Pfeifer as Mr. William Lane is quite knowledgeable, we also saw him the night before as John Adams and he was wonderful!
Wonderful tour by Lee Ann and Bill Rose
F771ABchristinef,
Oct 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Leeann and Bill Rose are two of the hardest working and creative people I know. I knew that this tour would be fun and I was right. Knowing the amount of research and dedication that goes into each and every tour makes me appreciate the event even more. Thank you for continuing to be part of a beautiful town that comes to life every day.
Interesting stories
Connector31084057094,
Oct 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We were captivated from the beginning to the end of this tour. Great impersonation and stories. Want to try other tours.
We had a great evening!
F8238YFbarbarao,
Oct 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Anna and her husband were amazing. We got into character with them and had a great time. Would highly recommend this tour!
Fascinating history lessons
JohnsonMKL,
Oct 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fun evening tour/talk with a real(?) character. Our guide was a bailiff of the court and told us of real felony cases from 1776 (and prior). Interesting to learn of the similarities and differences in law and justice from then and now. If you love history, this tour is worth it!
Enjoyable
jeffsO5263WV,
Sep 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great story line based on historical events and delivered well. Enjoyed the setting and the knowledge of our guide. Would highly recommend.
Highly recommend!!!
409jillianc,
Sep 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely Fantastic!!!! Great stories about scandals, mayhem and murder from the time period!!! Take this tour, you won’t regret it!!! The tour guide was dressed and spoke with a time period accent!!! Very engaging!!! Was also a dog friendly tour!!! Thank you!!!
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Operated by Shades of Our Past