Archaeologists excavating the Lebanon Town Green in Lebanon, Connecticut, have uncovered the well-preserved remains of an 18th-century bake house. The structure, believed to have been used to bake bread for French troops supporting the American Revolution, was found earlier in June.
Sarah P. Sportman, Connecticut state archaeologist, stated that while few artifacts were recovered, one significant discovery was a burned gunflint dating to the Revolutionary War era. Gunflints were essential components of flintlock firearms used to ignite the powder charge. Other recovered items included ceramic and glass fragments from the late 19th century, indicating more recent landscaping, as well as older ceramic fragments, animal bone pieces, clay smoking pipe fragments, and bottle glass from the late 18th century.
Historians had long suspected the presence of a French bake oven on the town green, with its potential location previously marked by a commemorative plaque. An amateur excavation in 1896 reportedly found masonry and bricks, but lacked documented evidence. This modern excavation represents the first comprehensive archaeological investigation of the bake house.
Sportman noted that the bake house foundation, though not robustly constructed with tightly built stonework, appears largely intact despite the earlier dig. It is considered more permanent than temporary earth ovens used by troops on the move. The structure likely used a stone base with brick for the oven itself, indicating it was intended for a multi-month encampment.
Pre-excavation ground-penetrating radar suggested the stone and brick structure was part of a larger complex of buildings on the green. Further testing is planned for the fall to clarify these features and provide a more complete understanding of the site. This excavation is part of a broader archaeological and historical project in Lebanon, coinciding with the nation's 250th anniversary. Experts have identified numerous other sites related to 18th-century militia training and a potential French hospital, underscoring Lebanon's significant role during the Revolutionary War. The Lebanon encampment was part of the route for French troops under General Rochambeau, highlighting the crucial assistance provided by French allies in the American victory over British rule.