Colonial Williamsburg wants you to take aim at a new experience — one that may have been a popular form of entertainment for 18th-century soldiers.
The Revolutionary City will debut an axe-throwing range Saturday, according to a release from the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
“Our increasing numbers of Historic Area guests enjoy engaging, hands-on experiences that enrich their visit and support Colonial Williamsburg’s core educational mission,” said Colonial Williamsburg President and CEO Mitchell Reiss. “Like our popular kids’ archaeological dig, educational Musket Range and other new offerings, the Axe-throwing Range offers guests a chance to experience the 18th century like the people who created our nation.”
The range will allow guests to throw axes similar to those that were issued to many American units during the Revolutionary War. According to the release, the axes were rarely thrown at enemies during battle — instead, they were thrown at trees and other targets as a means of entertainment and competition for troops during their down time.
Guests will first receive a history and safety lesson before moving to throwing lanes, where they will take aim at a target roughly 15 feet away. Colonial Williamsburg will host eight axe-throwing programs a day between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Participation is limited to guests 12 and older, and those 17 and younger will need to be accompanied by an adult. Tickets for the Axe-throwing range cost $10.
The range is located at the intersection of Boutetourt and Nicholson streets.
