Adults, Seniors, Family, and Church Groups

All group programs are customized based on the interests of the group, age of group members as well as the length of time scheduled for visiting. A minimum of twenty (20) is required to reserve a program. Advanced reservations are required. Some programs subject to staffing availability.

These hands-on interactive programs are fun for all ages and interests. Call LaFawn Crewe at 1-800-232-1613 or email.

Advanced reservations are required to be eligible for group discounts and programs. Program availability contingent on staff availability.

Punctuality in arrival time is appreciated; late arrivals cannot be guaranteed their entire programs.

Payment: One form of payment for the entire group is due on the day of the tour:  cash, credit card (VISA or MasterCard), or check (company, personal, or travelers checks.)

For more information or to make your reservation, call 1-800-232-1613 or email.

Tour of the Great House:  Take the guided tour of the Great House which includes stories of the Hill Carter family members who have lived at Shirley for 11 generations.

Self-Guided Grounds, Gardens, and Buildings Tour:  Follow the grounds and gardens map provided at orientation which includes information on each of the original early 18th-century buildings and other points of interest.

Choose from the following available programs:

Some programs subject to staffing availability and length of visit.
Add $1.00 per person per program. Programs customized for the group.

Colonial Schoolroom:  Participate in a recreated classroom with lessons similar to those learned by young children on the plantation by penning with a quill. 

Games and Amusements:  Try a variety of 18th-century and 19th-century games including jacks, marbles, jack straws, “Close-the-box”, nine pins, and lawn bowling.

Brick-by-Brick:  Use original salvaged Shirley bricks to reconstruct a brick wall and investigate original building materials and construction techniques used to design the “Great House.”

Slave Life at Shirley:  Explore the stories of slave life at Shirley Plantation by reviewing copies of family documents and letters and discover the role of archaeology in interpreting slave life at Shirley.

Role of Religion:  Listen and learn about the various spiritual beliefs both Anglo-Saxon and African Americans were practicing during the Colonial era and how it influenced early America.

Courtesies:  Learn the social graces young ladies and Virginia gentlemen were taught in the 17th and 18th centuries. Compare and practice with the social behaviors of today.

The Mighty James (River): Learn how the James River changed history beginning in 1607 and continues to be the one of the most influential rivers in America today. Hands-on activities include walking from the banks of the river to each of the outbuildings.