Data Recovery underneath Gates Hall: the Original Bray School Foundation

The Center for Archaeological Research undertakes focused data recovery efforts at Gates Hall. While the structure undergoes construction and rehabilitation, the Center is able to access previously unreachable areas of the cellar and basement area. Finding that more of the original Bray School foundation is intact than was previously thought, the project has gained the attention of several news outlets.

'Groundbreaking' Discoveries: Archaeology at W&M deepens understanding of the historic Williamsburg Bray School

W&M Magazine, October 1, 2025

{{youtube:medium|w1hMnE9P9j8, Part of the team discusses their journey from classroom to the dig site.}}

Digging backwards through history lights the way forward

W&M News, June 17, 2025

Enslaved Black Children were Educated Here

The New York Times article covers a broader scope than just the Center's project. The Center is mentioned and is illustrated in some photos.

New York Times, June 16, 2025

Archaeologists unearth foundation of 1760s schoolhouse for Black children

AP News, June 18, 2025