Montpelier Archaeology Public Programs (2019/2020) Reconstruction: Civil War Encampments

Reconstruction Expedition:
Civil War Encampments
Are you ready for an intensive, hands-on experience? In this workshop, you will
work side-by-side with master craftsmen and historians to recreate the structures
that once stood on the Montpelier property. You will also join our archaeology
staff on exclusive tours designed to immerse you in the history of the structure
you are building.
From the winter of 1863-1864, the
woods surrounding Montpelier were
filled with South Carolinian soldiers
under the command of General Samuel
McGowen. Through a combination of
metal detector survey and archaeological
excavation, we have successfully
identified five of these encampment
areas. In the early 2000s, we joined
forces with a local Civil War reenactment
group to create a mock-up of what one of
these encampments would have looked
like in a clearing behind the Gilmore
Farm. Unfortunately, this interpretive
area is now in need of some restoration
work.
During the week of October 20th to
October 25th, you will work alongside
the staff of Salvagewrights, a local