Definition: The archaeological site of Jamestown in what is now Virginia in the American southeast is a National Historic Monument that represents the ruins of a 400-year-old British colony. Established in 1607 by a English business called the Virginia Company and led by Captain John Smith, the colony suffered through a very difficult period in its early years, bailed out by trade with the Powhatan Indians in the neighborhood. The legend of Pocahontas and John Smith derived from the early days of the colony. Eventually, Jamestown did prosper, becoming Virginia's capital until 1698 when it burned to the ground and was abandoned.
Extensive archaeological investigations have been conducted at Jamestown since the early 1990s, in anticipation of the 400th anniversary of its foundings. Building foundations have been identified, as has a well dating to the period of initial occupation. Jointly owned by the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities (APVA) and the National Park Service, the site (with a museum and other open air exhibits) is open to the public for visit year round.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar.
Extensive archaeological investigations have been conducted at Jamestown since the early 1990s, in anticipation of the 400th anniversary of its foundings. Building foundations have been identified, as has a well dating to the period of initial occupation. Jointly owned by the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities (APVA) and the National Park Service, the site (with a museum and other open air exhibits) is open to the public for visit year round.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar.
Alternate Spellings: Jamestowne (17th century spelling)
