This exhibit highlights a sample of reanalyzed colonoware vessels, all originally excavated from the South Flanker well at Drayton Hall from 1979-1980. This well is located on the south side of what used to be the South Flanker building, which initially stood adjacent to the main house and fell into disrepair and was removed by 1900. While the well was originally dug as a water source, it eventually became ill-suited as such, likely due to contamination from brackish water. At this point, it became a trash pit, and we can archaeologically see several episodes of debris being discarded over generations. These deposits have resulted in distinctive layers that are recognizable by diagnostic artifact types. We use certain "time-marker" artifacts (i.e. artifacts with known date ranges) to understand the time periods associated with each event (or group of events) of trash being thrown down the well. From this analysis, we can separate the South Flanker well feature into three distinctive periods: c. 1750-1780 (John Drayton's occupation of Drayton Hall); c. 1785-1820 (Charles Drayton); and c. 1820-late 19th century (multiple generations of Drayton ownership). Colonoware was recovered from all three of these occupation phases.
Date
August 18, 2021 - December 31, 2022
Location
Online/ Drayton Hall 3380 Ashley River Road
Charleston, SC29414
Thank You! Your Charleston Visitors Guide is on its way! Please allow 7-10 business days for delivery within the domestic US. Please allow 3 - 4 weeks for deliveries outside the United States.
Access Your Favorites from any Device and Get Suggestions for Upcoming Events
Share Your Favorites
Would you like a free Charleston vacation planning guide?
Published annually, the official Charleston Visitors Guide is full of gorgeous photography, insider tips, maps, and resources to help you plan your Charleston vacation.