Last updated: April 9, 2021
Place
Enslaved Village at Snee Farm
NPS
Quick Facts
Location:
Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
Amenities
2 listed
Benches/Seating, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits
The Enslaved Village site at Snee Farm consists of the archeological remains of four buildings at the southwest corner of the park, located along the trail system. Archeologists believe the enslaved community of Snee Farm first established this village in the eighteenth century and occupied it through the nineteenth century. Three of the structures (circa 1828 - 1853) likely housed enslaved people. The fourth structure (circa 1754 - 1818) was likely used for storage.
It was depicted on historical maps as a series of orderly cabins. The archeological evidence of the village, however, presents a less orderly picture but one enhanced by trash pits, artifacts, and a range of potential building types not illustrated on the maps.
Lowcountry planters implemented the task system for agriculture production. Instead of working a set time, enslaved people completed a measurable daily task. Rice cultivation tasks included hoeing one-fourth of an acre or threshing 600 sheaves of rice. After completing their tasks, enslaved people could grow and sell crops, visit with family and friends, and rest. Archeologists excavated the trash pits around the enslaved community of Snee Farm, finding animals bones and crustacean shells. These discoveries indicate the enslaved had the time to supplement their diet and that the enslaved of Snee Farm labored under the task system.
It was depicted on historical maps as a series of orderly cabins. The archeological evidence of the village, however, presents a less orderly picture but one enhanced by trash pits, artifacts, and a range of potential building types not illustrated on the maps.
Lowcountry planters implemented the task system for agriculture production. Instead of working a set time, enslaved people completed a measurable daily task. Rice cultivation tasks included hoeing one-fourth of an acre or threshing 600 sheaves of rice. After completing their tasks, enslaved people could grow and sell crops, visit with family and friends, and rest. Archeologists excavated the trash pits around the enslaved community of Snee Farm, finding animals bones and crustacean shells. These discoveries indicate the enslaved had the time to supplement their diet and that the enslaved of Snee Farm labored under the task system.