1781 Before the Siege. The British come to Yorktown

British soldiers dressed in 18th century uniforms
Experience the historical village of Yorktown as it might have appeared in September of 1781, under the occupation of His Majesty's forces commanded by Lieutenant General Charles, Earl Cornwallis.
Witness as the British dig in and fortify Yorktown in the weeks before the Continental & French Army arrive to establish their siege lines. Stand on the grounds where it really happened 243 years ago.
Watch British soldiers drill and execute their daily duties. See local town folk of the day going about their business under the watchful eye of the administration of Lord Cornwallis’s soldiers.
Demonstrations by the British Army & Naval forces, and Camp followers, will intrigue visitors, offering a glimpse into a period in our history long past. Come, enjoy, and engage with His Majesty’s forces and learn the British story in the last major land battle to be fought in the American Rebellion in North America.

Both Saturday and Sunday
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
-Patrolling of Yorktown & Water Streets
-Medical Display at the Nelson House Yard
-Colonial blacksmith display & demonstration at York Hall
-Camp followers cooking & laundry demonstration Between Sommerwell-Cole Digges House
10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
-Manning Redoubt 9 on Yorktown Battlefield
10:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m. & 1:15 p.m.
-Royal Artillery firing at Yorktown Battlefield Visitor Center
10:30 am, 1:30 p.m. & 1:15 p.m.
-Drill and displays & soldier uniform-equipment at York Hall
4 p.m.
-Camp closed to public.

Last updated: August 5, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Colonial National Historical Park - Yorktown Battlefield
P.O. Box 210

Yorktown, VA 23690

Phone:

757 898-2410

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