In late 1718, a Royal Navy expedition dispatched from Virginia killed the pirate Blackbeard off the coast of North Carolina. 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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Tour: Custis Square Archaeology
Take a guided tour and talk with archaeologists in the field about the current archaeological investigations at John Custis IV’s four-acre home and early 18th-century gardens.
CW Admission
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Street Theater: 1776
Gather with the people of Williamsburg to discuss and consider the front-page news of July 26, 1776.
Open to the Public
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Evening Program: Historical Keyboard Recital
Guest artists from the Historical Keyboard Society of North America offer an elegant evening of 18th-century music performed on historical keyboard instruments.
Open to the Public
Event Ticket