Where was TURN: Washington's Spies filmed?
2014
City Locations
Richmond, Powhatan, and Charles City, VA (USA)
Location Types
Mansions, Schools/Colleges, Church/Temple
Location Styles
Georgian/Southern, Colonial, Building Dated/Retro, Dutch Colonial, Rustic
About TURN: Washington's Spies
For those drawn to historical narratives or compelling drama, TURN: Washington's Spies provides a fascinating insight into the secret activities that were pivotal in forming the United States. This compelling historical drama aired from 2014 to 2017. The series, directed by Rupert Wyatt, is set against the backdrop of the American Revolutionary War and focuses on the events from 1776 to 1781.
Jamie Bell stars as Abraham Woodhull, a Setauket farmer in New York. He and his childhood friends form an unconventional spy group called the Culper Ring. Notable cast members include Daniel Henshall, Seth Numrich, Meegan Warner, and Heather Lind.
The plot centers around the Culper Ring's efforts to aid General George Washington's army. The story begins in October 1776, shortly after the British recapture of Long Island and the Port of New York, leaving Washington's forces in a difficult situation. As the series progresses, the actions of this covert group have significant implications for the war's outcome.
The first season of TURN: Washington's Spies received mixed reviews regarding critical reception, earning a rating of 54% on Rotten Tomatoes. However, the second season experienced a positive shift in reception, garnering "generally favorable reviews" with a 68 out of 100 score on Metacritic.
TURN: Washington's Spies Locations
The critically acclaimed AMC series TURN: Washington’s Spies offers a fascinating depiction of the Culper Spy Ring's operations during the American Revolutionary War. Although the spy ring was based in Setauket, Long Island, the series was predominantly filmed in Richmond, Virginia. This is mainly due to modern-day Setauket's transformation from a quaint hamlet into a bustling town of over 15,000 residents, making it challenging to find locations that evoke the rustic charm of 1776.
However, the series captured the era's essence by filming in various locations across Virginia, including Colonial Williamsburg, Petersburg, Tuckahoe, Yorktown, and the historic campuses of Shirley, Scotchtown plantations, and the College of William & Mary. These locations provided a rich and authentic backdrop for the show, complete with historic homes and buildings still standing today, offering viewers a captivating journey back in time.
Setauket's rich history is well represented in the series. For instance, the Setauket Presbyterian Church, used by British soldiers as a stable during the Revolutionary War and the site of the Battle of Setauket on the Village Green, features prominently in the narrative. The Continental Army's attack on the British from a glacial boulder, still visible down the street, adds another layer of historical authenticity to the show.
A visit to these locations would undoubtedly be worthwhile for any fan of TURN: Washington's Spies or history enthusiasts. Not only will you get to walk the same grounds as the characters from the show, but you'll also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich historical tapestry these sites represent.
British fortification scenes in TURN: Washington's Spies
Presbyterian Church-Setauket, 5 Caroline Ave, Setauket- East Setauket, NY 11733, USA
In the first season, a poignant scene unfolds at the Setauket Presbyterian Church, which the British soldiers repurposed as a stable during the Revolutionary War. The church's pulpit and interior were mercilessly destroyed, while tombstones from the surrounding cemetery were transformed into fortifications. This scene serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of the war on daily life.
A significant fabrication in the series involves Judge Richard Woodhull (Kevin R. McNally), father of the protagonist Abraham Woodhull. While the show portrays him as an appeaser of the British, in real life, he suffered at the hands of the feared Colonel John Simcoe (Samuel Roukin) of the Queen's Rangers, who also has a role in the series.
This memorable scene was filmed at the actual location, the Setauket Presbyterian Church, adding a layer of historical authenticity to the show. The church was led by Reverend Benjamin Tallmadge, whose son, Major Benjamin Tallmadge, headed General Washington’s spy ring. Despite being damaged by bullets and cannons during the war, the original church stood until 1811 before being replaced by the current building. Abraham Woodhull, a key figure in the spy ring and a childhood friend of Tallmadge, is buried in the cemetery here.
To visit this location, you would need to travel to Setauket, Long Island, New York. The area is accessible by car, with the church on Caroline Avenue. Public transportation options include the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station in nearby Port Jefferson, from where you can take a taxi or a local bus service to Setauket.
Abe gives the money to Anna scene in TURN: Washington's Spies
Shirley Plantation, 501 Shirley Plantation Rd, Charles City, VA 23030, USA
In season one, episode three, a pivotal scene unfolds at Strong Manor, Anna Strong and her husband's estate. In the dead of night, protagonist Abraham Woodhull sneaks into the barn, signaling to Anna (Heather Lind). Here, he confides in her about an offer to become a spy, reassuring her that he has no intention of accepting. Anna's disappointment is palpable as she questions his hesitance. "What are you waiting for? What more do they need to take from us?" she says before storming off, leaving the money Abe offered her untouched.
The beautiful Shirley Plantation stands in for Strong Manor in the series. This historic location is a living testament to Colonial life and early American history, embodying the stories of indigenous people, settlers, indentured servants, and enslaved individuals. The plantation remains an active family farm and is currently home to the 11th and 12th generations of the Hill Carter family.
Located in Charles City, Virginia, Shirley Plantation is a recommended visit for fans of the show. To truly immerse yourself in the atmosphere and history, it's advisable to reserve a guided tour. To get to Shirley Plantation, if you're coming from Richmond, take I-64 East or VA-5 towards Williamsburg/Norfolk.
Richard marks a bill of attainder against Selah Strong scene in TURN: Washington's Spies
Tuckahoe Plantation, 12601 River Rd, Richmond, VA 23238, USA
In the fifth episode of season one, viewers are transported to a Christmas celebration in Setauket. In an impactful scene, Richard (Kevin R. McNally) signs a bill of attainder against Selah Strong (Robert Beitzel), which Hewlett (Burn Gorman) posts at Strong Manor. The bill includes a phrase about granting freedom to his slaves, leading to a jubilant celebration among them. This scene poignantly captures the complex dynamics of power, oppression, and hope during this tumultuous period.
The backdrop for this memorable scene is the Tuckahoe Plantation in Richmond, which serves as the home of Richard Woodhull in the series. Tuckahoe holds historical significance as the boyhood home of Thomas Jefferson and is recognized as a National Historic Landmark. Architectural historians regard it as one of the finest early 18th-century plantation homes in America, making it a fitting location for the series' exploration of Revolutionary War-era America.
For fans wishing to experience the setting firsthand, Tuckahoe Plantation is open year-round from 9am to dusk for self-guided tours. It takes approximately 30 minutes to drive from Richmond using VA-150 N/Chippenham Pkwy N and River Rd. The duration may vary depending on traffic conditions.
Washington dictates a letter to Howe scene in TURN: Washington's Spies
Patrick Henry's Scotchtown, 16120 Chiswell Ln, Beaverdam, VA 23015, USA
The commander of the Continental Army, George Washington (Ian Kahn), dismounts his horse. As he does so, viewers are given a view of his encampment, with the Continental Army set up across the yard in a display of military readiness. At this moment, Washington dictates a letter to General Howe, expressing his anger over the barbaric treatment of prisoners on British ships. The scene was captured in season one, episode six.
This scene was filmed at Patrick Henry’s Scotchtown, a location steeped in revolutionary history. This historic home is the sole residence of Patrick Henry, the renowned Patriot and Orator of the American Revolution. From 1771 to 1778, Henry resided in this place, where he conceived his most influential ideas that propelled the revolution forward. Today, it is a testament to his brilliance and his pivotal role in shaping America's history. Patrick Henry's Scotchtown offers a range of experiences for fans wishing to visit. Visitors can explore the grounds, listen to a cell phone tour, enjoy a birding trail, shop in the museum store, eat lunch under the pavilion, or participate in one of the site’s many hands-on classes and special events.
The site is open from March through December. To reach Patrick Henry’s Scotchtown from Richmond, Virginia, take I-95 N to VA-54 W/Patrick Henry Rd in Ashland. The journey will take approximately 40 minutes by car.
Woodhull scouts out the British military scene in TURN: Washington's Spies
Columbia University, 116th and Broadway, New York, NY 10027, USA
In season four, viewers are transported to the vibrant cityscape of colonial New York City. Abraham fearlessly embarks on a mission to gather intelligence on British military operations, illuminating the difficult endeavors undertaken by the members of the esteemed Culper Ring.
The series paints an authentic picture of the city during this tumultuous era. As depicted in the show, parts of the colonial city were notorious for prostitution. Another grim reality of the time was the use of prison ships for holding captives, like the character Selah Strong. Similarly, sugar factories were converted into what was known as sugar prisons, further highlighting the harsh conditions during the Revolutionary War.
One of the notable settings in the series is the townhouse serving as the headquarters for British Major John André (JJ Feild). Additionally, the show highlights King's College, which later evolved into Columbia University, capturing the era's essence through its architecture and atmosphere.
A visit to Columbia University in New York City is highly recommended for fans seeking a glimpse into the show's rich history. With its preserved historic architecture, the university offers a captivating journey into the past. Engage in intriguing events and immersive tours that delve into the university's captivating history, making it an absolute must-visit destination. Conveniently, you can reach Columbia University by taking the 1 train to the 110th Street-Columbia University station.
Conclusion
TURN is an ambitious and beautifully crafted series that brings to life the fascinating story of the Culper Ring, a group of men and women who risked their lives to provide General George Washington with crucial intelligence about the British movements during the American Revolutionary War. The series is based on the book “Washington’s Spies” by Alexander Rose, and its narrative is as intriguing as it is historically significant.
The performances in the series are commendable, with the actors successfully embodying the complexities and nuances of their characters. The script is well-written, maintaining a delicate balance between historical accuracy and engaging storytelling. The depiction of 18th-century spycrafts, such as signals sent through the color and alignment of dresses on a clothesline, adds a layer of authenticity and fun to the narrative.
The filming locations, predominantly in Richmond, Virginia, contribute significantly to the series' atmospheric setting. Despite the spy ring being based in Setauket, Long Island, the transformation of Setauket into a modern and bustling town necessitated the shift to more rustic and period-appropriate locations in Virginia. TURN breathes life into the messy and often overlooked aspects of the American Revolution, providing a more realistic and nuanced portrayal than what is commonly presented in textbooks and political discourse.
All in all, TURN: Washington's Spies is definitely worth watching. It offers a compelling blend of history and drama, enhanced by solid performances, a well-crafted script, and stunning cinematography. It may not be an easy watch, but as the series aptly demonstrates, neither was the American Revolution.