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Yorktown BattlefieldGrand French Battery
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Colonial National Historical Park - Yorktown Battlefield

On October 19, 1781, a British army under General Charles Lord Cornwallis was forced to surrender to General Washington’s combined American and French army. Upon hearing of their defeat, British Prime Minister Frederick Lord North is reputed to have said, "Oh God, it's all over." And it was. The victory secured independence for the United States and significantly changed the course of world history.

 
Park Ranger Giving Tour

Tours and Programs

Tours: Yorktown Battlefield offers Ranger guided tours of the battlefield and town. Other tours and programs are available on a seasonal basis.
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Childrens's Artillery Program

For Kids

A variety of activities designed just for kids are available at Yorktown Battlefield. These activities include Ranger-led programs with hands-on activities. 
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Exploding fireworks

Special Events

The park has many events going on throughout the year that commemorate Yorktown's role in American history.
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Write to

Colonial National Historical Park
P.O. Box 210
Yorktown, VA 23690

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Information
(757) 898-2410

Fax

(757) 898-6346

Climate

Tidewater Virginia generally has a warm climate. Average winter daytime temperatures peak at 10 C (50 F) with night time lows of 3 C (25-20 F). Chilling winds coming off the rivers can produce wind chill temperatures much lower. Summer temperatures range from daytime highs of 30 C (85-90 F) down to 20 C (60 F) at night. Area is generally humid, especially during the summer months.
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Re-enactor camp in 1981  

Did You Know?
The 9,000 American forces were in the minority during the Yorktown Campaign. The French army and navy combined for over 25,000 men, while the British army and navy participants numbered over 21,000.

Last Updated: March 02, 2009 at 11:48 EST