History through material culture.
Use search bar to find objects by historic event, time period or culture
Osnaburg Fabric Apron- Charleston, SC
In 1735, South Carolina passed a Act outlawing enslaved Africans to wear any garment greater than the value of “negro cloth”.
19th Century Carving Fork- Nashville, TN
This carving fork was found at Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage Plantation. Two of the tines hold the meat in place, while the third “tine” is most likely a hand guard.
Bone Needlecase- Burlington County, NJ (Video)
New Jersey archaeologists find a carved, bone needlecase that reflects African American craft and symbolism.
Carnelian Ring- Montpelier Plantation, VA (Video)
According to historical texts, Cambay crafted carnelian stone into beads, not rings. Further analysis could determine if the ring is an original import or reshaped from beads.
Pierced Coin- Poplar Forest, VA
Enslaved African-Americans at Poplar Forest used a pierced coin as a protective charm and teething device.
Grub Hoe- Prince George's County, MD
Grub hoes were most likely used to break the soil for tobacco plants, the primary cash crop for Maryland-based plantations.
Servant Bell System (3D)- Popular Forest Plantation, VA
Bell systems function via a system of wires strung throughout the building.