During the construction of a new archaeology center in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, workers unearth the remains of a late 17th-century mansion once own by a wealthy resident. Alongside the house remains, they discover a range of historical artifacts from the same era.
Since the 1960s, the site had been occupied by a parking lot. Excavations are ongoing as archaeologists continue to explore and uncover its historical significance.
According to Colonial Williamsburg, the site has reveal the house brick foundation and cellar, measuring 32 by 40 feet. Additionally, a well has been discover roughly 40 feet from the structure.
Colonial Williamsburg stands as the largest living history museum in the United States. Spanning 301 acres, it features numerous authentic and reconstruct 18th-century structures. The site is animate by actors and interpreters who vividly portray the rich history of Williamsburg.
Recent discoveries emerge during the development of the Campbell Archaeology Center, scheduled to open in 2026. The center will feature state-of-the-art classrooms, advance laboratories, engaging exhibitions, and an extensive collection of artifacts from the museum.
The architects of the Center are currently modifying the building’s design to seamlessly integrate the archaeological site within the structure.
Researchers estimate that the newly uncover residence was construct before the city of Williamsburg was officially found in 1699, potentially as early as 1660. Prior to Williamsburg’s establishment, the area was known as Middle Plantation.
In 1699, the town was rename Williamsburg to honor William III and became the capital of the Virginia colony. It held this status until 1780, when the capital move to Richmond. During its time as the capital, Virginia was one of North America’s wealthiest and most influential colonies.
Between 1737 and 1740, they tore down the house. Archaeologists, who examine artifacts discover in the well and cellar, suggest that the inhabitants were affluent. They found a large, almost pristine window from the house, numerous clay wig curlers, intricately design import ceramics, and a silver teaspoon.
Furthermore, they discover at least four cowrie shells, which were commonly utilize as decorative items by enslaved individuals.
Another discovery include a collection of animal bones, which were remnants of meals consume at the residence. The bones, identified as belonging to cows, pigs, sheep, and fish, offer valuable insights. Researchers intend to conduct further analysis to uncover more details about the dietary habits of the inhabitants.
At present, the investigation is ongoing to determine the identity of previous occupants of the house. A significant obstacle is that property records for this area of Williamsburg were destroy during the Civil War.
Colonial Williamsburg has unearth numerous historical treasures over the years, including a notable 17th-century residence.
Earlier this year, archaeologists discover remnants of a Revolutionary War-era military barracks. Among the unearthed artifacts were pottery shards, chimney bricks, horseshoes, horse bits, and jewelry, including what are believe to be officers’ cufflinks.
