Baking Oven Used At Jamestown Three Centuries Ago
The earthenware baking oven shown was restored from over 200 fragments found during archeological excavations at Jamestown. In use, heated stones were placed inside and left until the walls of the oven were hot enough for baking. Sometimes the oven was placed directly on the embers. With the small thick door in place, heat was retained for considerable time—the domed top reflecting the heat down on the bread or cakes that were being baked.
"Harvesting" Ice
Research on painting by author. Photo courtesy National Park Service.
"Harvesting" Ice At Jamestown About 1640
Conjectural Painting
Although not a commodity in the strict sense of the word, an icehouse was indispensable in preserving certain products. Archeological explorations at Jamestown revealed that icehouses were built on the island over 300 years ago. Ice was "harvested" during the winter months, and often remained in storage as late as September or October. It was used for cooling bottled wines, "firming" butter, and keeping fresh certain foods, such as fish, meats, and dairy products. In the illustration men are carrying ice to the circular-shaped, brick, icehouse. In the distance a man is sawing ice.