During the 18th century, half of Williamsburg’s population was black. The lives of the enslaved and free people in this Virginia capital are presented in reenactments and programs throughout the Historic Area.

• Introduction to Colonial African American Life

  Dig deeper into the everyday details of Williamsburg’s African American population. Learn more.

• Dunmore’s Proclamation

  An early promise of freedom came with strings attached. Learn more.

• Great Hopes Plantation

  Visit a working plantation and see enslaved life in an interactive setting. Learn more.

• The African American Family

• African American Clothing

• Visit the Historic Area

  Explore African American daily programming in our events calendar