For over half a century the Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums has transformed children from the Williamsburg community into young adults who exemplify these attributes. With its beating drums, trilling fifes and colorful uniforms, the Corps has become one of the most recognized symbols of Colonial Williamsburg. Members of the world-renown Corps are musical ambassadors for the restored 18^th century town. Today there are approximately 80 young men and women in the Corps.

     To commemorate the Corps’ 50^th anniversary (1958-2008), Alumni of the Corps created a not-for-profit organization, The Tricorn Foundation, whose sole purpose is to establish a permanent endowment to fund scholarships for graduating members of the Corps.  Tricorn believes that the unique experience of service in the Corps builds confidence and character, teaches the value of teamwork and ultimately creates good citizens.  All alumni are extremely proud of these young men and women and feel that graduates of the Corps merit both our admiration and our continuing support through a scholarship fund. 

     We hope that you agree and we are making a direct appeal to friends and admirers of the Corps for your support in making this worthwhile endeavor a reality.  Any and all donations are greatly appreciated.  In return for your tax deductible donation your name, if you consent, will be listed as a donor on the Tricorn website, and you will receive a Certificate of Appreciation.

   

     To further commemorate the 50th anniversary, Tricorn commissioned a painting THE TATTOO by historical artist Pamela Patrick White. This painting was commissioned by Tricorn in 2008 to honor the Corps’ 50th anniversary.  The painting authentically depicts a fifer and two drummers playing the “tattoo” at the Powder Magazine in Williamsburg .  They are wearing the uniform of the Virginia State Garrison Regiment, which is known to have had a detachment in Williamsburg during the Revolution.  This is the dress "regimental" uniform worn by the present day Colonial Williamsburg Fifes and Drums. To learn more about Pamela Patrick White click here.

     Fifers and drummers were essential to the armies of the 18^th century. They relayed commands during battle and while in camp, fife tunes and drum beats regulated the soldier’s daily life. Because the musicians were under the age of 16, they were considered non-combatants. To identify them on the battlefield, they wore the opposite colors of the men at arms, which explains why the coats of the musicians in the painting are red.  The Tattoo originally was played in the evening as a signal to bartenders to close their taps so that the soldiers or sailors could return to their quarters. It later evolved into a bugle call that is now known as "taps."

     Collector quality "Giclee" prints of the original painting are available for sale in two sizes: 18" x 22" Artist proofs and 12" x 15" Collector prints.  To order a print of THE TATTOO, 

click here.

To Order 50th Anniversary
History Books
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