The Reverend and the Millionaire

If you’re curious about how Colonial Williamsburg was brought back from the brink of decline to a celebrated historical site, then The Reverend and the Millionaire tour might just be worth your time. Priced at $25 per person, this one-hour walk offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people and ideas that turned an aging town into a living museum.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines storytelling with visual insights—you’re not just hearing about history, but actually seeing the sites involved in the restoration process. Plus, the guide’s knowledge makes complicated historical efforts simple and engaging. That said, since it’s a walking tour that depends on weather, it’s worth planning ahead for rain or shine.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy history, stories of visionaries, or simply want a deeper understanding of Williamsburg’s transformation. It’s a good fit whether you’re a history buff or just looking to add some meaningful context to your wander through Colonial Williamsburg. Let’s walk through what makes this tour a solid choice and what to keep in mind before booking.

Key Points

• Focused storytelling: The tour centers on the story of Dr. W.A.R. Goodwin and John D. Rockefeller Jr., revealing how their partnership revived Williamsburg.
• Short but detailed: Just an hour long, it packs in historical background, site visits, and restoration insights.
• Engaging guides: Multiple reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making the experience more lively.
• Weather-dependent: As it’s a walking tour outside, be prepared for all conditions.
• No Williamsburg entry: The tour does not include access to buildings, but it offers a comprehensive street-level view.
• Affordable value: At $25, it offers a deep dive into Williamsburg’s history that many find worth the price.

A Close Look at the Tour Itself

Starting Point: Bruton Parish Episcopal Church

We loved the way the tour kicks off at Bruton Parish Church, a landmark steeped in history. Here, the guide introduces you to W.A.R. Goodwin, the Reverend whose vision set the restoration in motion, and paints a picture of what Williamsburg looked like when he arrived. The church’s significance as a community hub adds a compelling start to the narrative.

This first stop is more about setting the scene than being a detailed visit—admission isn’t included, but the focus is on storytelling. Expect about 15 minutes here, during which you’ll get a solid introduction to the main characters and their motives.

George Wythe House: The Dream Takes Shape

Next, you visit the George Wythe House, where the guide discusses Goodwin’s dream of restoring Williamsburg to its colonial glory. This part of the tour is lively, with the guide pointing out on Palace Green what the town looked like in 1927, when the restoration efforts really gained momentum.

It’s fascinating to hear about the need for funding—how Goodwin had to rally support and secure financial backing. Again, you’re not touring the interior (admission not included), but the focus on visual cues and stories makes this segment engaging. Approximately 15 minutes here.

Walking the Streets: The Partnership of Goodwin and Rockefeller

The real core of the tour is the walk along West Duke of Gloucester Street, where you learn about the partnership between Reverend Goodwin and John D. Rockefeller, Jr. The guide explains how Rockefeller’s financial support allowed Williamsburg’s streets and buildings to be reconstructed or preserved.

Here, you’ll see and hear about original buildings versus reconstructed ones, with explanations of restoration methods. The guide’s descriptions help paint a vivid picture of a town being carefully pieced back together, sometimes through detective work—searching for the original locations of historic structures. Since the path might differ based on weather or maintenance, it keeps the experience fresh for each group. Expect around 20 minutes for this segment.

Raleigh Tavern: The Public Exhibition

The tour concludes at Raleigh Tavern, the first site opened to the public for exhibition. Here, the guide shares insights into how Williamsburg’s story was curated for visitors and the importance of public education in historic preservation. The visit is about 10 minutes long, serving as a nice wrap-up that emphasizes the ongoing story of Williamsburg’s restoration.

What’s Included

• A souvenir button that you can keep as a fun memento of your walk.
• The tour does not include admission to Williamsburg’s buildings, but the focus is on the streets, stories, and visual history.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and engagement. One reviewer called it an “excellent, detailed tour” that dives into the story of Williamsburg’s restoration and praised the guide for making history accessible. Others appreciated the visual aids—old photographs and site descriptions—that helped bring history to life.

Many mention the value for money—especially given the depth of storytelling in just an hour. Even those who found the walk fast appreciated the informative nature, with comments like “the guide was well prepared and loud enough to be heard in the back.”

Some reviewers pointed out the weather dependence—since it’s an outdoor walk, rain or shine can impact the experience. A few mentioned that the pace was brisk, so if you prefer a more relaxed stroll, you might want to inform your guide.

Tips for Making the Most of It

• Wear comfortable shoes and be ready for outdoor walking.
• Check the weather forecast so you’re not caught unprepared.
• Arrive a few minutes early at Bruton Parish Church to settle in.
• Bring questions—guides love to share stories beyond the script.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $25, this tour offers a focused, well-told story about Williamsburg’s revival. Since it doesn’t include admission to Williamsburg’s sites, it’s a good introduction, especially if you’re short on time but want context for your visit. For history lovers, the detailed narrative about the partnership between Goodwin and Rockefeller makes it a worthwhile investment.

The value also comes from the quality of the guide, who apparently makes the story engaging through vivid storytelling and local knowledge. If you’re interested in the how and why of Williamsburg’s restoration, this tour covers it well.

Who Should Consider Booking?

This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts wanting a concise yet thorough overview of Williamsburg’s restoration. It’s also a good option for those who enjoy walking tours and don’t mind outdoor elements. It’s ideal if you prefer a guided narration that makes the past come alive, especially through visual stories and site descriptions.

It’s less suitable if you’re looking for interior visits or a more leisurely pace—since the tour is fast-moving and weather dependent, it’s best for those prepared to walk outdoors for about an hour.

The Sum Up

If you’re keen to understand the story behind Williamsburg’s stunning comeback, The Reverend and the Millionaire tour offers a compelling, well-delivered narrative. The guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, turning what could be dry history into an engaging story. You’ll gain a vivid picture of how a visionary Reverend and a wealthy benefactor shaped this historic town’s future.

It’s a great pick if you want a slice of history with a personal touch, especially if you’re curious about the figures behind the scenes. The tour’s value is rooted in the storytelling, the beautiful streets, and the chance to see how history was painstakingly pieced back together—without breaking the bank.

While weather can be a consideration, the experience is flexible and informative enough that most visitors will finish feeling like they truly understand Williamsburg’s remarkable restoration journey. Just remember to dress accordingly, arrive early, and enjoy the stories that continue to echo through the streets of this historic town.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the focus on stories of restoration and history can be appreciated by older children and teens interested in history. It’s a walking outdoor tour, so young children should be prepared to walk and stand.

Does the tour include entrance to Williamsburg’s buildings?
No, this is a street-level tour that does not include access to Williamsburg-owned buildings.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but rich experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 18 days ahead, and booking in advance ensures a spot, especially during peak seasons.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and check the weather forecast to dress appropriately—since it’s weather dependent.

What is included in the ticket price?
You’ll get the guided tour and a souvenir button. No entry tickets to buildings are included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if it rains?
The tour is weather dependent, and if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This walking tour delivers a focused, engaging look at Williamsburg’s restoration story, with knowledgeable guides and vivid storytelling. It’s a wonderful way to deepen your understanding of this historic town and its remarkable transformation.