Magazine

HISTORIC BUILDING · COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG

The Powder Magazine stored weapons and ammunition for colonial Virginia and became a flashpoint immediately before the American Revolution.

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Overview

The Magazine was built to hold arms and ammunition sent from Britain for the defense of the colony. In 1775, the removal of gunpowder by order of Governor Dunmore provoked a confrontation that became part of Virginia's movement toward revolution.

The site or trade forms part of the broader interpretation of Colonial Williamsburg, the restored Historic Area in Williamsburg, Virginia.

What to notice

The surviving structure and its surrounding yard help visitors understand Williamsburg's military role, the importance of stored arms, and the escalation of conflict between colonial Virginians and royal authority.

Historical context

Buildings in the Historic Area are interpreted within the political, economic, social, and domestic life of eighteenth-century Williamsburg. Some structures are original survivors, while others are reconstructions created from documentary, archaeological, and architectural evidence. Visitors should consult Colonial Williamsburg's current schedule because access, tours, and programming can change.

Visiting context

This subject is best understood as part of the larger Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area. The main Colonial Williamsburg guide provides an overview of major sites, museums, trades, dining, and visitor information.

See also

• Colonial Williamsburg
• Williamsburg, Virginia

External links

• Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area
• Colonial Williamsburg — Powder Magazine