Revolution 250: Stories From The First Shore

"Loyalists Vs. Patriots: When Neighbors Became Enemies"

*Content Advisory - This episode contains descriptions of torture which may be unsettling to some listeners. Discretion is advised* Loyalty in a time of rebellion carried a heavy cost. Nearly one in five colonists sided with Britain during the Revolution, including immigrants, enslaved people, and Native allies. Seen as traitors by their communities, they endured harassment, violence, and the loss of homes and property. Discover the overlooked struggles of Loyalists during the American Revolution. 

"A Taste of the Past: Food in Colonial Virginia"

What was for dinner in colonial Virginia? Meals were hearty, seasonal, and deeply rooted in tradition. Indigenous crops, African influences, and European methods combined to create a distinctive culinary culture that reflected the colony’s diversity. Explore how everyday meals helped shape Virginia’s identity.

"The Sound of Colonial Virginia"

In colonial Virginia, music was everywhere. From bawdy ballads in taverns to candlelight concerts in Williamsburg. Blending English, Scottish, African, and European traditions, these sounds carried stories of love, politics, faith, and freedom. Discover how music became the heartbeat of Virginia’s culture and set the stage for revolution.

"The Courthouse that Ignited the Revolution"

In Northampton County, the courthouse became a place of defiance long before open war. From petitions against “arbitrarye and illegall” taxes in 1653 to rejecting Parliament’s Stamp Act in 1767, local justices and citizens boldly challenged authority. By 1774, they burned tea in protest and sent food to Boston. Discover how Virginia’s Eastern Shore turned its courthouse green into a stage for revolution.

"The Boycott: Unity and Defiance in 1769"

In 1769, Parliament’s new taxes pushed Virginia’s burgesses from the Capitol to Williamsburg’s Raleigh Tavern, where they pledged no more British goods. Washington, Lee, and Jefferson joined merchants and planters in an act of economic resistance that spread across the colony. Discover how the Non-Importation Agreement ignited unity.

"Williamsburg: Cradle of Revolution"

Williamsburg’s rise from quiet plantation crossroads to revolutionary capital began with its riverside location and healthier climate. Colonial leaders, scholars, and patriots shaped a city where debates in the House of Burgesses helped spark independence. Discover how Williamsburg became Virginia’s political and cultural heart.

"Farming in The Colonies: Agriculture on the Eve of the War"

Tobacco built fortunes in colonial Virginia--but at what cost? From the arrival of enslaved Africans in 1619 to overproduction and economic collapse by the Revolution, this episode explores how farming shaped Hampton Roads. Discover how demand, labor, and a single crop set the stage for a fragile economy.

"Princess Anne County: The Fields that Fueled the Revolution"

Before revolution gripped Virginia, Princess Anne was already a force. An agricultural stronghold east of Norfolk’s shipping lanes and Williamsburg’s political halls, its fertile fields drew planters, and inlets nourished trade and tradition. But by 1775, quiet farms gave way to gunfire. Discover how Princess Anne helped fan the flames of America’s fight for independence.

"Smallpox, Riots and Divided Loyalties"

In 1768, Norfolk faced a deadly outbreak—and a radical medical solution. But hope turned to chaos when fear, politics, and violence collided. Discover how a bold attempt to fight smallpox ignited riots, shattered trust, and revealed deep divisions in colonial Virginia. 

"Norfolk: Port of Trade, Gateway to Revolution"

Long before the revolution, Norfolk thrived as a colonial powerhouse. As a lifeline to the British Empire, by the 1770s, the port bustled with merchants, shipbuilders, and sailors, fueling Atlantic trade. However, when tensions with Britain escalated, this vital port became a flashpoint. Discover how Norfolk’s rise and fiery fall marked a turning point in America’s revolutionary journey.