Unraveling the Use of Yards: Synthesizing Data from Monticello’s North and South Yard Excavations

Summary

Over the past thirty years, archaeologists at Monticello have excavated portions of the lawns located on opposite sides of Thomas Jefferson’s home. To date, no comprehensive synthesis of the archaeological data from these excavations has been conducted.  Because of the varied tasks undertaken in the structures adjacent to these yards, the areas on the North and South side of the mansion were functionally different. Comparative stratigraphic and ware-type analysis aim to expose stratigraphic temporal patterning and distinct functional differences within these opposing spaces. The findings presented here speak to both the diverse use of yard space as well as the effect of Jefferson’s landscaping endeavors on the Mountaintop. This paper attempts to integrate decades of archaeological excavations into a larger discussion of temporal and spatial patterning of artifacts in Monticello’s yards.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Paper / Report Submission (General Sessions) 2016   •
• Society for Historical Archaeology 2016

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Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology

Record Identifiers

PaperId(s): 898