July 5, 2025

Archaeological Discoveries at Williamsburg Bray School

News Summary

Recent excavations at the historic Williamsburg Bray School on William & Mary’s campus have uncovered the nearly complete foundation of this significant educational institution for Black children from 1760 to 1774. The findings include a large cellar, a range of artifacts like colonoware pottery and personal items that shed light on the daily lives of students, and highlight the school’s complex history. These discoveries not only enhance our understanding of the colonial education system but will also be featured in future exhibits aimed at preserving this important part of American history.

Williamsburg, Virginia

Archaeologists have uncovered the nearly complete foundation of the historic Williamsburg Bray School on the campus of William & Mary, revealing significant details about this educational institution that served Black children between 1760 and 1774. This excavation was part of the renovation efforts to transform Brown Hall into Robert M. Gates Hall.

The Bray School offered education to both free and enslaved Black children, aged 3 to 10, during its operational years. The excavation revealed a previously undocumented cellar measuring 36 by 18 feet, which showed indications of two distinct floor levels. Notably, the cellar was not lined with bricks, suggesting it was dug shortly after the building’s initial foundation was laid, highlighting the construction techniques used at the time.

A diverse array of artifacts was retrieved during the excavation, dating from the 18th century to the mid-20th century. Among the notable findings are fragments of handmade colonoware pottery, which are indicative of ceramics created by enslaved Africans and Native Americans. Additionally, the archeologists discovered jewelry, buttons, and brooches likely worn by female students of the Bray School, as well as pieces of slate pencil and a wig curler, which give insight into the personal lives of the students.

Also found were Greek Revival ceramics and a significant shard of glass depicting Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom and justice. This particular shard is believed to have been used as dormitory decor by students in the early 20th century. Collectively, these artifacts offer new insights into the daily lives and educational experiences of Black children in the colonial period while emphasizing their role in American history.

Some of the retrieved artifacts will be displayed in a planned permanent exhibit at the renovated Gates Hall, while others will be sent to Colonial Williamsburg’s Colin G. and Nancy N. Campbell Archaeology Center, which is set to open in 2026. This initiative aims to preserve and showcase the historical significance of the Bray School and its contributions to education.

The Bray School’s history is not without controversy, as it was designed to instill acceptance of the enslaved individuals’ circumstances among its students. Today, the original structure of the Bray School has been restored to its 18th-century appearance in Colonial Williamsburg and opened to the public as a museum on June 19, 2023, coinciding with Juneteenth.

The discoveries at the site come at a time when the nation is engaged in critical discussions about how to remember and teach historical narratives, especially those related to Black education and experiences. In response to these findings, William & Mary plans to outline the Bray School’s foundation within the floor of the renovated Gates Hall, an approach aimed at enhancing historical understanding and fostering awareness of the institution’s role in education and the broader societal context.

This archaeological endeavor not only enriches the historical narrative of the Williamsburg Bray School but also serves as a testament to the ongoing need to examine and acknowledge the complexities of American history, especially concerning the education of Black children in colonial America.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Significant Archaeological Discovery at William & Mary
Williamsburg Uncovers Historic Bray School Foundation
Archaeologists Uncover Williamsburg Bray School Foundation
Williamsburg Bray School Opens as Museum of Black Education
Discovery of Historic Williamsburg Bray School Foundation
Significant Archaeological Discovery at Bray School Site
Discovery of Williamsburg Bray School Foundation
Williamsburg Bray School for Black Children Opens to Public
Archaeological Discoveries at Williamsburg Bray School
Williamsburg Live Brings Vibrant Performances to the Community

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER

WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!

STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER

Stay Connected

More Updates

Family enjoying pancakes at the Williamsburg Pancake Festival

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Submit