In late 1718, a Royal Navy expedition dispatched from Virginia killed Blackbeard, the pirate, off the coast of North Carolina. Also, 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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Performance: The Soldier and the Widow
Experience the first conversation between Colonel George Washington and Martha Custis that set them on the path to becoming the iconic couple that history remembers.
Art Museums Admission
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Performance: Two Steps Forward…
Hear different stories of the people and events that shaped America’s early history through their own actions and choices.
CW Admission
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Film: Williamsburg – The Story of a Patriot
See the 1957 film, in its vibrant 70mm format, that tells the story of a Virginia planter deciding to join the patriot cause.
Open to the Public