Subfloor Pits: Exploring Archaeological Discoveries in the Cellar of the Main House
Archaeology & Landscape Restoration
Montpelier–one property, many plantations
Today, Montpelier’s property boundaries encompass at least five plantations from the Madison era. This blog explores how we discovered this aspect of present-day Montpelier, why this occurred, and a little background on each of these plantations.
The South Yard: Archaeology
What did the Archaeology Team find in the South Yard?
Paste Gems
One of the most thrilling artifacts to uncover at a site is a paste gem and in the last two seasons at the Overseer’s we have found six. Paste gems are imitation jewels, or rhinestones, made by pouring melted glass into gem shaped molds to mimic real gemstones. They could be made in any size [...]
The Stories Artifacts Tell: Health and Well-Being at the Field Quarters
What does archaeology tell us about how Black laborers enslaved by the Madisons took care of the health and well-being?
Paperless Shovel Test Pit Survey at the Overseer’s House
The Archaeology Team is starting to do survey at the Overseer’s House…and beginning our paperless system! Read to learn how you can follow along from home!
How do You Know Where to Dig?
Learn how archaeologists figure out where to dig, and how you can help!
Finding the Overseer’s Site
Metal detecting led us to the spot to find the Overseer’s House! Learn how!
Exploring Madison’s Home Farm: New Excavations at the Overseer’s House
The Archaeology Department is beginning a new period of excavations at the Madison Home Farm – beginning with the Overseer’s House!
The Joy of Finding a Piece of Glass
Read about how one of our Expeditioners helped uncover a special artifact – and discover what it was!
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