Archaeologists Discover 250-Year-Old Brick Kiln at Thomas Jefferson's Monticello

This month, archaeologists have discovered a 250-year-old brick kiln on the East Lawn of Monticello, the estate of Thomas Jefferson, which dates back to the construction of Monticello I between 1768 and 1782. The excavation was part of preparations for improvements to a bus boarding area, following insights from a 2018 Plantation Archaeological Survey. The kiln was recognized by its consistent brick fragments showing signs of burning and embossed bricks utilized for neoclassical water tables. Unlike other known kilns located near a stream, this one is situated adjacent to the main house. Enslaved individuals and indentured workers were responsible for firing bricks here. This discovery sheds light on earlier assumptions regarding brick debris found last year. Monticello remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site, continually unveiling archaeological discoveries.