First identified during the 1971 Kelso survey, Site A is located to the northeast of the Carter's Grove Mansion, approximately 2500' from the James River. Currently situated in a pasture, the area had been repeatedly plowed, destroying all cultural layers and leaving only the remains of features that intruded subsoil. A major ravine that feeds into the western branch of Grice's Run is located directly east of the site. The site was threatened by development activities in the late 1970s requiring its complete excavation. Eric Klinglehoffer led this excavation under the direction of Noël Hume.

The most complex of all of this time period's occupations, Site A contains several buildings, fences, graves, defensive measures, and exhibited growth by stages. The main dwelling measured 20' by 18' and was later enlarged to 40' by 18'. On one side a lean-to measuring 7'6" by 22' was added. This wattle and daub earthfast structure probably had a brick chimney. An unusual second structure, called the cellar house was interpreted as a temporary dwelling constructed when the site was first occupied. Inside the bottom of this almost square (20' by 19') cellar were six structural postholes found in the corners and in the center of the eastern and western walls. These posts supported a wooden ceiling, which Noël Hume believed was covered by an A-framed roof. Seven smaller post structures were also found along with numerous fencelines and slot trenches. Ten pits, some connected to small buildings by slot trenches were found within this complex. Located well away from this building complex was a large oblong ditch/trench that surrounded the site. The only break or entranceway was located to the south of the complex. Within the ditch were four groups of graves containing a total of twenty-three graves. The remains of men, women, and children were found, some in gabled lidded coffins, other with no coffins at all. No signs of violent death or unusual burial practices were noted (Noel Hume 1991).

Artifacts

This site contained an amazing assortment of artifacts, many of which reflect high social status. Strands of silver and woven gold used in clothing were found in the cellar fill. During the early seventeenth century clothing was one way to express social standing. A resolution passed in 1621 designed to suppress material excess, banned the use of silver and gold in clothing for all except government officials (Noël Hume 1991).

Architecturally, window glass and a Dutch delft tile also reflect social standing. Tiles functioned as either wall or fireplace skirting, but were considered to be a decorative nicety (Noel Hume 1991). Window glass was not considered a necessity, or necessarily common.

Other atypical finds included a single cannon ball, 108 case bottles, a locally made alembic, other kiln furniture, and body armor. Ceramics from most of the pits crossmend with each other and the cellar which suggested that these features were open at the same time (Noel Hume 1991).

Dating and Interpretation

Missing from this site were signs of destruction by fire and unorthodox burial practices. Ceramics suggest the site was occupied during the 1630s and 1640s. A Binford pipestem mean date of 1631 suggests the site was occupied somewhat earlier. While the accuracy of this technique has been questioned by some (Noël Hume 1991), it is possible that this site was first occupied around 1625.

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