Elizabeth S. Kostelny is the executive director of the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities, also known as APVA Preservation Virginia, the oldest statewide preservation organization in the United States serving as an advocate and resource for preservation of significant historic properties.
What is the Jamestown Rediscovery Project researching?
In 1994, … [APVA] launched a comprehensive archaeological excavation at Historic Jamestowne, the site of the first permanent English settlement in America, to identify and interpret the remains of the 1607 James Fort and the town site as their centerpiece contribution to the 400th anniversary of Jamestown in 2007.
When archaeologists found remains of the fort in 1996, we dispelled the long-held belief the fort was lost to the James River. Since then, we’ve found the outline of James Fort, including the remains of palisade walls, bulwarks, interior buildings, wells and pits. In addition, we’ve unearthed nearly 1 million artifacts reflective of life at James Fort, and analyzed the remains of the foundations of the last Jamestown statehouse.
How long has APVA Preservation Virginia owned the property being researched?
APVA Preservation Virginia was founded in 1889 to save threatened historic landmarks, including Jamestown. We acquired 22.5 acres near the church site in 1893 and have preserved and interpreted the site ever since.
How does it benefit the public?
The research project has significantly modified our understanding of the first settlers, their relationship with Virginia Indians, their endeavors and struggles, and how they lived and died. Discoveries have become a valuable resource for scholars and educators. Artifacts are on public display in the Archaearium, a new exhibition facility at historic Jamestowne. Visitors may also observe the dig and share in the moment of discovery.
How does your research fit into the larger 400th anniversary of Jamestown?
We’ve produced a more complete picture of the early years at Jamestown that forms the basis of new interpretative experiences under development at Historic Jamestowne and elsewhere. Our research has also been the subject of international media attention and documentaries that have helped raise awareness about the significance of Jamestown. The 400th anniversary and the commemorative events planned by Jamestown 2007 will provide a spotlight and provide a platform for historic Jamestowne and the complementary programs offered at Jamestown Settlement, the state-supported living history museum, for years to come.
