Archaeologists uncovering the foundation of the historic Williamsburg Bray School, a key site in the education of Black children.
Archaeologists have uncovered the nearly complete foundation of the Williamsburg Bray School, one of America’s oldest institutions for Black children. The excavation, part of renovations for Gates Hall at William & Mary, revealed a cellar and numerous 18th to mid-20th century artifacts, including pottery linked to enslavement. This historic site, operational from 1760 to 1774, played a crucial role in the education of free and enslaved Black children. The findings illustrate the broader narrative of Black education in America, enriching the history of Williamsburg and its ties to African American heritage.
Williamsburg, Virginia – Archaeologists have made a significant discovery by unearthing the nearly complete foundation of the Williamsburg Bray School, recognized as one of America’s oldest educational institutions for Black children. This historic site was operational from 1760 to 1774 and is located on the campus of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia.
The excavation, which was carried out during renovations for Gates Hall, revealed a cellar measuring 36 feet by 18 feet that was not lined with bricks. This suggests that the cellar was likely dug shortly after the building’s foundations were laid. The discovery marks an important milestone in understanding the educational history of African Americans.
During the excavation, a variety of artifacts were retrieved from the site that date back from the 18th century to the mid-20th century. Significant finds include fragments of slate pencils, jewelry, pottery shards, buttons, and ceramics. Notably, Colonoware pottery linked to enslavement was also uncovered, which offers insight into the lives of African Americans during that time period. One particularly special artifact was a shard of glass featuring Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom, war, justice, and the arts.
The Williamsburg Bray School was established with the dual intention of teaching both free and enslaved Black children. This institution aimed to rationalize slavery through a religious framework while promoting literacy among its students. The head teacher, Ann Wager, played a critical role in educating these children from the ages of three to ten, helping to instill a sense of acceptance regarding their circumstances. Over its operational years, the school became part of the broader narrative of education for Black individuals in America.
After its closure in 1774, the Bray School transitioned into a private home and ultimately became integrated into the university’s campus infrastructure. Historical methods such as tree ring analysis were employed to determine the original structure of the schoolhouse, providing valuable data for historians and archaeologists alike.
The recent findings are expected to be showcased at the forthcoming Colin G. and Nancy N. Campbell Archaeology Center, set to open in 2026. Additionally, some of the retrieved artifacts will be permanently displayed at the fully renovated Gates Hall. This incorporation will allow visitors to connect with the site’s historical significance and foster a deeper understanding of the education and experiences of its young students.
William & Mary President Katherine A. Rowe highlighted that these discoveries not only enrich the historical narrative of the institution, but they also illuminate the early history of the city and its ties to African Americans. Colonial Williamsburg, at the site of the school, emphasizes the pivotal role of African Americans in shaping the history of Williamsburg.
The artifacts unearthed from the Bray School site reflect the struggles and resilience of those who attended the school and contribute to a broader understanding of Black education in America. With these discoveries, researchers and educators aim to present a more comprehensive history that acknowledges both the challenges and achievements of Black individuals in earlier centuries.
Archaeological Discoveries at Williamsburg Bray School
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
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