Revolution 250: Stories From The First Shore

The American Revolution offers countless remarkable stories of ordinary citizens doing extraordinary things—from the call for independence in 1776 Philadelphia to the improbable surrender at Yorktown in 1781. Hampton Roads, with its deep harbors and strategic position in the prosperous Virginia colony, played a distinct role in that history.

What are the stories, both familiar and lesser-known, from Colonial Hampton Roads? What was life like in the region's unique triad: Williamsburg, the cultural and political epicenter; Princess Anne County, with its vast agricultural economy; and Norfolk, with its vital maritime trade? Who was Lord Dunmore, Virginia's last Royal Governor, and why did Norfolk remain a Loyalist stronghold? What games and pastimes did the colonists enjoy? How did notorious turncoat Benedict Arnold end up in Portsmouth? And how did that famous cannonball come to rest in the wall of a Norfolk church?

As America prepares to mark its 250th anniversary, WHRO presents Revolution 250: Stories From The First Shore, a chronicle of America's semi-quincentennial through the people, actions, and events that have shaped our country. This weekly feature offers a fresh and intriguing look at American independence through our region's unique lens.

This podcast is independently produced in recognition of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and is not officially affiliated with any national or state Revolution 250 organizations.

Listen Mondays at 7:31 AM and 4:32 PM on 89.5 WHRV and 11:00 AM and 5:30 PM on 90.3 WHRO.

Stream the latest episode here, subscribe through Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Episodes are also available anytime on the WHRO Media Player and the WHRO App.

Funding for Revolution 250: Stories From The First Shore has been provided by Colonial Williamsburg and The Virginia Museum of History and Culture's Commonwealth History Fund, presented by Dominion Energy.