Archaeology and Colonial Life
Archaeology gives us clues about the people who lived and labored at Mount Vernon. This, in combination with objects, documents, and places, allows us to learn more about past lives and legacies. Explore more about archaeology below!
Enslavement at Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon was home to over five hundred enslaved individuals throughout George Washington's lifetime. The stories of these individuals are told through evidence like archaeology, documents, and objects.
More on enslavement at Mount Vernon
Archaeological Discoveries
At Mount Vernon, archaeologists look for different pieces of evidence to learn more about how people lived and labored in the 18th century. We discover new things every day.
What is Archaeology?
Gathering the Evidence
By putting all of the evidence together, we know a lot about the people who lived at Mount Vernon. However, there is still a lot more to discover.
Looking at the EvidenceArchaeology Online
Explore our archaeological collections to discover additional resources
Explore the Slave Cabin
Seeds
These seeds were found by the House for Families, which was a living quarter for people enslaved near the Mansion. People who were enslaved at Mount Vernon often grew their own plants or foraged for food to help improve their diet.
Porcelain Pieces
These porcelain pieces were also found near the House for Families. It looks like pieces of a punch bowl, and was most likely used for multiple purposes.
Spinning Report
This spinning report not only shows what was created, but who exactly created it. Evidence like this help tell the story of the people at Mount Vernon.
Available Resources
Interested in researching colonial life? Explore these sources!
- Enslavement at Mount Vernon
- Lives Bound Together Virtual Exhibit
- Biographies of People Enslaved at Mount Vernon
- Video Biographies of People Enslaved at Mount Vernon
- Housing of People Enslaved at Mount Vernon
- Labor in the Mansion
- House for Families
- House for Families Archaeology
- Ask an Archaeologist
- Primary Source Collections
- Daily Life of Enslaved Population
- Division of Dower Slaves, 1802
- Spinning House Ledger
- Distillery Ledger
- Spinning Report
- Persimmon Seeds
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