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Colonial Williamsburg’s New Archaeology Center Unearths 17th-Century Treasures

Construction has commenced on a new archaeology center at Colonial Williamsburg, intended to showcase the living history museum’s extensive collection of artifacts. During the initial phases of development, construction teams uncovered the remnants of a building dating back to the 17th century, alongside an array of artifacts from the same era.

Archaeological work continues at the site in Virginia, which had been obscured by a parking lot since the 1960s. Excavations have revealed a substantial brick foundation measuring 32 by 24 feet, inclusive of a cellar, as well as a nearby well situated approximately 40 feet away. This significant discovery has been reported by Colonial Williamsburg.

Experts anticipate that the home could have been constructed as early as 1660, potentially marking it as the oldest known colonial structure in the region. At that time, Williamsburg was referred to as “Middle Plantation,” a name it held until its rebranding to honor William III, when it became the capital of the colony in 1699. The capital later moved to Richmond in 1780. There is a strong belief among archaeologists that this building remained intact until the 1720s or 1730s.

Jack Gary, the executive director of archaeology at Colonial Williamsburg, expressed the excitement surrounding the find, describing it as “wild” and fitting for the site, as stated in a video announcement.

The artifacts recovered include imported ceramics, wig curlers, diamond-shaped glass panes, and a silver teaspoon handle, indicating that the inhabitants of this 17th-century home likely belonged to a wealthy household.

“Many of the materials discovered are typical of what affluent homes of the period would contain,” Gary noted. “This site is remarkable, as the findings enable us to narrate the story of life before Williamsburg was officially established in 1699. This house was part of that history.”

Upon the completion of the excavation and preservation efforts, the new archaeology center will be built atop the site. While the majority of the foundation will not be directly visible, a portion will be showcased through a glass floor, allowing visitors to glimpse history underneath their feet.

Gary emphasized the experience for guests, stating, “Our visitors will literally stand on top of history, looking down on it. It will be a poignant reminder that, at every turn in Williamsburg, history is literally beneath them.”

Recent Discoveries Enhance Historic Narrative

The 17th-century home is not the only significant find in Colonial Williamsburg’s ongoing archaeological efforts. Earlier this year, archaeologists also discovered remnants of a military barracks from the Revolutionary War, unearthing chimney bricks, pottery, horseshoes, horse bits, and jewelry pieces likely belonging to military officers, as reported by local news sources.

In addition to these discoveries, the oldest surviving schoolhouse for Black children in the United States was relocated to a permanent site within Colonial Williamsburg last year. Collaborative DNA testing has also contributed to new insights about one of America’s oldest Black churches, enhancing the understanding of the area’s rich history.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Archaeology in Williamsburg

The new archaeology center is anticipated to open its doors in 2026. It will feature curated exhibitions that delve into the artifacts from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Visitors will have the opportunity to partake in hands-on experiences and engage directly with artifacts in a public archaeology teaching lab.

Gary highlighted the critical nature of lab work in archaeological projects, stating, “Many people aren’t aware that 40 percent of a project takes place at the excavation site, while the remaining 60 percent occurs in the lab. Currently, visitors can join us in the field, but there is no facility for them to follow these projects to completion. This new archaeology center will change that dynamic significantly.”

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www.smithsonianmag.com