"In 2025 alone, archaeologists there unearthed unusual creamware, and evidence that Monticello had prototypical bathrooms. Now, experts have uncovered yet another striking find-a 250-year-old kiln where enslaved people and indentured laborers fired the bricks used to build Monticello."
"Researchers returned to conduct more extensive excavations earlier this month ahead of a planned upgrade to a nearby bus boarding area. 'In our first few quadrants, we uncovered a continuous layer of brick rubble,' academics associated with the find wrote."
"Soon enough, archaeologists realized they'd discovered another disassembled kiln. Their next challenge? Dating it. Several standout bricks unearthed here offered critical clues."
Monticello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has revealed significant archaeological findings, including a 250-year-old kiln used by enslaved and indentured laborers. Discovered in 2018, the kiln was excavated further in 2025 during a survey. Initial findings included brick rubble and segments of bricks, leading researchers to identify the kiln's historical significance. The bricks found provided clues that date the kiln back to Monticello I, constructed between 1768 and 1782, highlighting the labor involved in building Jefferson's estate.
Read at Artnet News
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