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.

Explore the Yard: Follow the compass directions and discover the contribution of where you are! At each stop, list the purpose “it” may have served to the success of the plantation.

Colonial Schoolroom: Participate in a recreated classroom with lessons similar to those learned by young children which include writing on a slate and 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: Handle original salvaged Shirley bricks to reconstruct a brick wall and investigate original building materials and construction techniques used to design the “Great House”.

Art in the Park: Take an art lesson on the lawn and paint a watercolor picture of the buildings or beautiful landscape overlooking the James River. (Primary Grade).

History Detective: Uncover the reality of Shirley’s experience during the Civil War by examining copies of primary source documents from Shirley’s archives. (High School).

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.

Student Group Admission Fees for School Year 2008-2009

*Complimentary admission provided for one teacher per ten students. One chaperone or teacher per ten students is recommended.

Admission fees include Tour of the Great House, self-guided tour of the grounds, gardens, and outbuildings, with two activities. Additional programs may be reserved for a fee of $1.50 per student. Allow a minimum of two (2) hours plus additional time depending on the number of students and number or programs. Our staff can assist you with coordinating your time schedule.

Group photograph taken by a trained Shirley staff member for just $15 provides you with one electronic and one printed version provided to the group leader.  Photography use agreement included. Reservations required. Based on staff availability.

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.