In late 1718, a Royal Navy expedition, dispatched from Virginia, killed Blackbeard the pirate off the coast of North Carolina. At that same time, 15 members of his crew were captured and brought to the Public Gaol in Williamsburg. They were tried for piracy at the Capitol by Virginia Governor Alexander Spotswood in early 1719. Join in this recreation of the actual trial of Israel Hands, a member of Blackbeard's crew. Hear the evidence and make a judgment! How would you sentence a pirate? Due to the subject matter, this program is not recommended for young children.
Parking near the Historic Area is recommended. If you plan to park at the Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center, please check the bus schedule.
Other Experiences
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Presentation: Musket Demonstration
Military Programs staff will demonstrate the loading and firing of the musket. Experience the sounds and smells a soldier experienced during the Revolution.
Open to the Public
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Presentation: Finding Jane Vobe
A sneak peek behind the scenes into the research behind Colonial Williamsburg's newest Nation Builder Jane Vobe.
CW Admission
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Performance: Visit with James Madison
Step into the past with James Madison, Scholar Statesman.
CW Admission