The contents of sub-floor pits illuminate the evolution of African-American culture. Early artifacts - beads of a type and color favored by West Africans and pipes made of local clay, but decorated in West African style-describe people far from home, clinging to the familiar.

An artist's rendition of slaves at rest, socializing and dancing.

More recent objects paint a portrait of quintessential American - people who worked to earn money with which they bought possessions.

Field slaves in particular could make money from hunting and fishing, as evidenced by the gun flint and fish bones found in sub-floor pits. Other objects indicate that enslaved people took medicines - probably traditional remedies - and had lives rich in religion and ritual. Even in bondage and denied their basic human rights, slaves developed a unique culture, one that resonates still in American culture today.

Click on the links below to listen to African- American spirituals, which blend traditional African rhythms with Christianity.

Wade in the Water
My Lord, What a Morning

Search for more spirituals at Official Site of Negro Spiritual, Antique Gospel Music

Photo: Colonial Williamsburg Foundation