History through material culture.
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Wig Curler- Stafford County, VA (3D)
Although George Washington did not wear a wig, over 200 wig curlers were found at his Ferry Farm home in Stafford County, Virginia.
Woodville Rosenwald School Desk- Gloucester County, VA
Despite the initial terms for funding a Rosenwald School, Gloucester’s African American community chose to raise the remaining the budget themselves and rather than accept contributions from the White school board.
18th C. Cufflinks- Montpelier Plantation, VA
In Colonial America, men with means enhanced their buckles, buttons and cufflinks with paste jewelry.
Boyd’s Battery- Fredericksburg, VA
Boyd’s Miniature Galvanic Battery was a personal wellness device that eliminated ailments using gentle, electrical currents. The device is an example of the late19th century believe that electricity could purify the body and the blood.
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.
Connecticut Coppers- Fairfax County, VA
Connecticut Coppers were one of many state-minted coins released after the Revolutionary War and were distinct for the grapevines added to Liberty’s shield.
Onion Bottle- Historic Jamestowne, VA
Archaeologists discover a 17th century black glass, onion bottle belonging to governor of Virginia, Francis Nicholson.
Servant Bell System (3D)- Popular Forest Plantation, VA
Bell systems function via a system of wires strung throughout the building.