Historic Structure Report, Architectural Data - Great Valley Road, Colonial National Historical Park, Virginia
Martinson EC. 1974. Historic Structure Report, Architectural Data - Great Valley Road, Colonial National Historical Park, Virginia. Historic Structure Report. U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Denver Service Center. Denver, Colorado
The purpose of this study is to determine a means of re-creating the appearance of the Great Valley Road during the 1781 period within the limitations of the present-day conditions. This report was prepared prior to the completion of the archaeological study. It includes information about the road's history, condition, and recommendations for reconstruction. Yorktown was platted in 1691, specifying lots and leaving space for streets and ways. The importance of the "Great Valley" as a communications route can be appreciated when the development of the waterfront is considered. The town wharf located between Read Street and Great Valley would have been a major activity center. Archaeological research during 1973 and 1974 uncovered evidence of the historic trace of the Great Valley Road. At the time of this report, Great Valley is a short yet deep, partially-wooded ravine. The vegetative cover ranges from a primarily open, grass-covered floor to heavy tree, shrub, and vine growth near the mouth of the ravine and along the river bluff. No trace of the historic roadway appears on the surface. It is recommended that Great Valley Road be reconstructed as nearly as possible on its colonial alignment as determined by archaeological research.
- Type
- Published Report
- Authors
- Martinson, Elmer
- Date of Issue
- 1974-06
- Publisher
- U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Denver Service Center
- Units
- COLO , NER
- Keywords
- American Revolution, archeology, Colonial Virginia, communication, Great Valley, Main Street, marl, port, ravine, road, road alignment, roadway, topography, waterfront, Yorktown
- Subjects
- CRIS-HS: 000228: Great Valley Road Trace