Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Library Research Report Series - 1615
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation Library
Williamsburg, Virginia
1990
Most of this area was excavated in 1942 during the month of April. A small portion near the southeast corner of the block, that had not previously been excavated, was investigated in February 1947.
The only foundation uncovered in this area was a small chimney which apparently was that of a small dwelling or servants' quarter. The size of the original building could not be determined as no evidence of foundations was found. Since the chimney was very roughly built, of bats and salvaged bricks of various sizes, it was probably a cheaply-constructed structure. It may have been a log house or small dwelling with wood sills resting on the ground.
The Frenchman's Map of 1782-86 shows only one building in or near this area. This building faced south on the center-line of North England Street. According to the Unknown Draftsman's map the building was partly on Colonial Lot 179 and partly on Colonial Lot 180.
During the latter part of the nineteenth century North England Street was extended north from Scotland Street to the railroad. In executing this work several feet of earth were graded from this site, therefore destroying all evidence of a colonial building.
In July 1938 some archaeological excavating was done on the east side of North England Street, but no building foundation was discovered. (See Archaeological Drawing Block 28, Area D.)
James M. Knight
Colonial Williamsburg
Architectural Department
November 17, 1947