Research & Archeology at the Enslaved Quarter Site

Partial reconstruction of the enslaved quarter site at Belle Grove showing cabins, fire pits, a blacksmith shop, barn, stable, and a swept dirt yard

Digital illustration by Dr. David Hixson based on archeological research by Dr. Matthew Greer

Most enslaved people at Belle Grove lived in the field you see before you. Archaeologists surveyed and excavated this site from 2015 through 2019. Their goal was to learn about enslaved life at the plantation.

Unfortunately, no photographs, maps, or accurate drawings exist of the quarter site. While research is ongoing, this illustration is a partial reconstruction of the site as it may have appeared in the early 1800s.

Visit Belle Grove Plantation to learn more about the people enslaved there.

Swept Yard

Enslaved women swept the area around their homes to create yards for their families. The lack of grass made it easy to pick up dropped items.

Cabins

Archaeologists found that there were at least five log cabins in the enslaved quarter site. As many as 13 people lived in each home.

Fire Pits

Enslaved people occasionally cooked and socialized around two fire pits behind the cabins. This location provided a small amount of privacy.

Blacksmith Shop

The quarter site included a blacksmith shop. This is where enslaved blacksmiths such as Daniel, Carter, and Jim worked.

Agricultural Complex

Next to the enslaved quarter site was a large barn and stable. These structures housed the Hites’ horses and agricultural equipment.

Why so few trees?

The woods behind the site date from the late 1900s. In the early 1800s, this part of Belle Grove was cleared of most trees.