Excavated
in 2002, this structure was probably also used as a dwelling. The posthole
pattern of the building measured roughly 16-feet square with a central
ridgepole-supported roof, and gable ends along its northern and southern
elevations. Postholes outlining the building’s hearth and chimney were
located off-center along the southern gable end of the building. Two shallow
subfloor pits were located within the interior of the building, one behind
the other, and also in front of the hearth. Analysis of the artifacts
and plant remains from the root cellar is currently on-going. The structure
is separated from the main dwelling by the north-south fence line and
is situated within what was likely the working yard of the Atkinson houselot
where the daily activities of life such as cooking, tending to animals,
as well as various small craft activities related to the operation of
the plantation were taking place. The building’s small size and inclusion
within the houselot’s work space suggests that this building may have
been used to quarter laborers, possibly indentured servants or slaves,
working on the Atkinson plantation.
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