Casa de Vino 57 Historical Tours The British Period 1763-1784

Exploring the British Period of St. Augustine with Casa de Vino 57 Historical Tours

If you’re someone passionate about history and planning a visit to St. Augustine, you’ll want to check out the Casa de Vino 57 Historical Tours focused on the British Period (1763-1784). While I haven’t done this tour myself, I’ve gone through the details and reviews to give you an honest look at what you can expect. It’s a tailored experience that promises a deep dive into a fascinating chapter of the city’s past, with expert guides and a flexible approach.

What really caught my attention is how they emphasize using primary and secondary sources, plus a scientific method of research. That level of care means you’re not just getting a generic script — the tour is designed to be both accurate and engaging. Plus, the fact that it’s personalized to your interests makes it stand out from more cookie-cutter options. However, it’s worth noting that the tour lasts around 2 to 3 hours; it’s not a quick overview, but a chance to really engage with the story.

One thing to consider is the price — at $72 per person, it’s on the higher side for a tour of this length. But if you’re a history lover or looking for a genuinely educational experience, the depth and quality might justify the cost. This tour would suit those who prefer meaningful, story-driven visits over surface-level sightseeing, and it’s definitely friendly to anyone curious about the British influence in the city.

If you like your tours personalized, historically detailed, and focused on the British period of St. Augustine, this could be a perfect fit. Just keep in mind that it’s a private experience, so the attention is all yours or your group’s, which can make for a more relaxed, in-depth exploration.

Key Points

• Personalized Tours: Each experience is tailored to the group’s interests, creating a more relevant and engaging visit.
• Research-Driven Approach: Uses a mix of primary and secondary sources, with a scientific method for authenticity.
• History Comes Alive: Guides aim to make history relatable, balancing facts with storytelling.
• Rich Itinerary: Focuses on key sites like the Joaneda House, Pena-Peck House, Cathedral Basilica, and Government House.
• Flexible Duration: Lasts about 2 to 3 hours, giving enough time for in-depth discussion without feeling rushed.
• Private Experience: Only your group participates, providing a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

A Detailed Look at the British Period Tour in St. Augustine

Starting Point: Casa de Vino 57 and the Joaneda House

The tour begins at the Casa de Vino 57, set in the historic Joaneda House. This initial stop is more than just a starting point; it’s where the tour’s narrative begins to unfold. The property itself is steeped in history, and the guide will likely discuss its significance as a foundational site for the story of this period. The inclusion of a food for thought about the property adds a personal touch, making the history feel more tangible.

Pena-Peck House Museum and Gift Shop

Next, you’ll visit one of the 35 first Spanish Period buildings in the city — the Pena-Peck House. Built during the Spanish rule, it was ordered by King Ferdinand VI for the royal treasurer. That kind of detail helps you see the political and administrative structure of the time. The guide will probably share stories about the house’s original purpose and how it fits into the city’s fabric.

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine

A highlight for many visitors, the Cathedral is the oldest Christian congregation in the contiguous US, built during the Second Spanish Period (1793-1797). The guide will likely discuss its architecture, religious significance, and role during the British occupation. As one of the key religious and cultural sites, it helps to visualize how the city’s identity was evolving during this time.

The Government House

This residence served multiple roles—during the first Spanish period, the British period, and the second Spanish period. It’s a prime example of how power and governance moved back and forth in this city. Expect the guide to illuminate how colonial governance operated during this fluctuating political climate, and why such continuity in architecture is significant.

Plaza de la Constitución

While historically vital in many ways, during this tour, the plaza’s focus is on the British period and the American War of Independence. It’s an opportunity to connect the dots between local and global history. The guide may discuss the influence of British rule, along with the broader geopolitical context.

Historic Fortifications and Refugee Stories

You’ll hear about the fortifications and how they served during the British occupation, as well as stories like that of Greek refugees from the fall of New Smyrna Colony. These personal stories add a human element to the broader historical narrative, making the period more relatable and vivid.

What It’s Like in Practice

The tour is designed to be both informative and engaging, with a focus on storytelling that makes history accessible. The guide’s passion, as one reviewer noted, really shines through — “Jonathan has a wealth of knowledge about the history of SA… he gives you his fullest attention and is not in a hurry.” Expect to be encouraged to ask questions and explore topics in depth. Since it’s private, the experience can adapt to your curiosity, which is a real plus.

The stops are spaced out reasonably, with some sites requiring short walks around downtown. Since the entire tour lasts 2-3 hours, you’ll get a comfortable amount of time at each major site without feeling overwhelmed. The inclusion of admission tickets in some stops means you won’t need to worry about extra costs, making the experience straightforward.

Price and Value

At $72 per person, this tour is an investment. It’s not the cheapest option in town, but the focus on quality, personalized content, and expert guidance justifies that. If you’re serious about understanding the British influence in St. Augustine, it’s worth considering. The detailed, research-based approach also means you’re likely to walk away with insights that go beyond surface details.

Who Would Enjoy This?

This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts, curious travelers who want a richer understanding of St. Augustine’s past, or those who enjoy guided storytelling. It’s particularly good if you prefer a tailored experience over larger, group tours. It’s less ideal if you’re just looking for quick sightseeing or family-friendly activities — this is more about the stories and context.

Final Thoughts

The Casa de Vino 57 Historical Tours focused on the British Period offers a thoughtful, detailed look into a pivotal chapter of St. Augustine’s past. Its research-driven approach, combined with a personalized touch, makes it stand out for anyone who values depth and authenticity in their history tours. While it’s a bit on the pricier side, the quality and customization justify the expense, especially for those eager to connect with the city’s complex colonial past.

If you’re the type of traveler who appreciates stories behind the stones, enjoys engaging guides, and wants a meaningful learning experience, this tour is likely a great fit. It’s a chance to explore not just sites, but the stories and struggles that shaped the city during a turbulent and transformative period.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is private and tailored to your group, but given its historical depth and detailed focus, it’s more suited for older children or teenagers interested in history. It’s not specifically designed as a family activity.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically runs about 2 to 3 hours, giving ample time to explore each site and have discussions.

What sites are included in the tour?
Major stops include Casa de Vino 57, Pena-Peck House Museum, Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, the Government House, Plaza de la Constitución, and local fortifications and refugee sites.

Are tickets included in the price?
Yes, at certain stops, admission tickets are included, making the experience more straightforward for travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, which is helpful for flexible planning.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, providing a more relaxed and customized experience.

What’s the price per person?
The cost is $72.00 per person, which reflects the personalized service and expert guidance provided.

If you’re looking for an in-depth, personalized journey into St. Augustine’s British period, this tour might just be what you need. It’s a chance to connect with history in a meaningful way, guided by someone with a genuine passion for the city’s stories.