The Archeology of Bacon’s Rebellion

Bacon’s Rebellion began as a campaign of violence against the region’s Indigenous people carried out in defiance of the royal governor. The elite instigators of the insurrection garnered broad support by stoking prejudice and exploiting the desperation of struggling and marginalized groups, including many in the colony’s growing, and increasingly oppressed African population who saw in the uprising a chance for self-liberation.

Take a closer look at some of the artifacts recovered to consider what ordinary finds from an extraordinary context can reveal about ordinary life and labor during this pivotal period.

We will meet in Williamsburg, carpool to Bacon's Castle via the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry which departs Jamestown for Surry at 4:45 pm, and enjoy a free audio tour of the grounds and outbuildings before the lecture. We will also have time to explore the Castle while we are there.

Bring a snack or bag dinner to picnic on site at Bacon's Castle before the panel lectures begin.

Meeting Time & Location: Meet at Target (Monticello Marketplace) near the EV Charging station, 4630 Monticello Ave, Williamsburg, VA 23188. The Ferry departs Jamestown at 4:45 pm, we will depart the Target Parking Lot by 4:20 together. 

Cost of tour is $15 per person and the deadline to register is August 17th. Payment can be made by cash, check, or card on the day of the event (payable to TVHS). If you would like to mail your check ahead of time, please send to P.O. Box 427 Williamsburg, VA 23187.