Research at Historic Hope

Archaeological investigations have been conducted at Historic Hope over several decades, including fieldwork in 1966, 1970, 1976, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, and most recently in 2023.

During the summer of 2023, an archaeological investigation at Historic Hope focused on a subsurface feature near the western façade of Hope Mansion. The excavation sought to determine the nature and function of the feature and resulted in the recovery of more than 4,000 artifacts.

The investigation ultimately identified the feature as a builder’s trench associated with a major chimney system, revising earlier interpretations of the area as a possible root cellar or punitive structure.

Archaeological Field Season Summary at Historic Hope Foundation — Summer 2023

Report prepared by Cheryl Frankum, archaeologist

During the summer of 2023, excavations at Historic Hope Foundation focused on investigating a suspected subsurface pit feature located near the western façade of the Historic Hope Mansion. Through systematic mapping, excavation, and documentation, a total of nine 1 x 1 meter test units were opened, resulting in the recovery of over 4,000 artifacts, including ceramics, glass, nails, brick, mortar, and other material culture representing both historic and modern disturbance layers.

The project initially aimed to determine whether the feature was a root cellar or another type of subsurface structure. Early excavation revealed heavily disturbed upper strata containing mixed debris, suggesting the area had been filled in over time. As excavation progressed into deeper levels, a large, continuous feature composed of compact orange clay fill and extensive brick deposits was identified across multiple units.

Through careful stratigraphic excavation, mapping, and comparison across units, the feature was ultimately determined to be a substantial builder’s trench associated with the construction of a major chimney system predating or integral to the construction of the 1803 Historic Hope Mansion. Excavation revealed up to 16 courses of brick extending below the surface, confirming the scale and structural significance of the feature. This finding clarified that the feature was not a root cellar or punitive structure, as suggested in some local interpretations, but instead a critical architectural component of the plantation’s early construction.

In addition to excavation, the project incorporated oral histories from local community members, archival research (including a 1966 excavation report and historic photographs) and public engagement through volunteers and educational outreach. These contributions helped contextualize the archaeological findings, particularly in dispelling longstanding misconceptions about the feature’s function.

Overall, the 2023 field season provided important insights into the construction practices and landscape history of Historic Hope. The integration of archaeological evidence, historical documentation, and community knowledge significantly enhanced the interpretation of the site while contributing to its preservation and public understanding.