Colonial National Historical Park

National Historical Park · VA · nps.gov page

Wooden split rail fencing and flowering trees surround a grassy field behind an interpretive panel
On this field on October 19, 1781, the British army laid down their weapons to end the Siege of Yorktown and effectively grant independence to the American colonies.Photo: NPS Photo

On May 13, 1607, Jamestown was established as the first permanent English settlement in North America. Three cultures came together – European, Virginia Indian and African–to create a new society that would eventually seek independence from Great Britain. On October 19, 1781, American and French troops defeated the British at Yorktown in the last major battle of the American Revolutionary War.

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News

  • Actor who plays Hamilton standing with hand in air and legs spread apart
    Colonial National Historical Park Presents Hamilton With Hamilton

    On Oct. 17, Colonial National Historical Park hosts Hamilton with Hamilton. This free event at the Yorktown Victory Monument features a live conversation with an Alexander Hamilton reenactor and outdoor screening of the movie musical Hamilton.

  • A group of five historical reenactors dressed as British soldiers. Three of the men have muskets. the fourth is holding a cup. In the center is an officer.
    Yorktown 1781: Before The Siege

    Travel back in time and experience Yorktown 1781: Before the Siege — a dynamic living history weekend that transforms Yorktown’s Historic Main Street into a bustling British occupied town on Sept. 12 and 13.

Photos

Bikers at Entrance to Historic Jamestowne Tour Road
Weekend Biking Near Tour RoadPhoto: Elizabeth Green
Bacon's Rebellion
Living History ProgramPhoto: Park Ranger Linda Williams
The Royal Artillery Living History Team Firing Yorktown Battlefield's 6 Pounder
Living History ProgramPhoto: Park Ranger Linda Willliams
Two brick arch bridges span a wood shaded road
The Colonial Parkway, a 23 mile scenic byway, links Virginia's Historic Triangle of Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown.Photo: NPS Photo / Roger Green

Park information and photos come from the National Park Service. This is not an official NPS site.