The Breakthrough Trail

— Pamplin Historical Park —

The shallow depression in front of you marks the location of what was once a substantial dwelling. Archaeologists excavated this site in 1997 and discovered a well-preserved brick foundation and flooring. The artifacts recovered from the site suggest that the house dates to the early 19th century.

This building was part of the Tudor Hall plantation owned by the Boisseau family. Research has not revealed who lived here, but it is possible that members of the family or plantation employees, such as an overseer and his family, occupied this home. The relatively elaborate construction and its isolated location make it doubtful that it served as slave quarters.

The best military map of the area produced in 1867 includes what appears to be a dwelling in approximately this location. However, none of the Confederate sources mentions a house between their fortifications and their picket line, and no Federal account refers to a structure in their path during the Breakthrough attack. It is possible that the building had fallen into ruins before the war or that the Confederates had leveled it to maintain a clear field of fire in front of their works.

Further historical and archaeological research might tell us more about this mysterious dwelling. In the meantime, in the interest of preservation and your own safety, do not disturb this site.

Sidebar: This structure, the bricks for which were laid in English bond, is an example of how fragile the historical record can be. The origins and occupants of this house remain unknown. After taking this photograph, archeologists backfilled the excavation to preserve it.

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Lieutenant Colonel Ronald A. Kennedy
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"Our Line of Battle was so Thin"
1st Lieutenant Evander McNair Robeson
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The Attack Begins
First Man Over the Works
Sergeant John E. Buffington

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