In summary, given the differences in structure types, topographic placement and

associated artifacts, it is possible that Hut Feature 90 (with its location on the ridge, more

resources invested in the fabric of the structure, and higher access to material goods) could have

been occupied by an officer, while the remainder of the huts were likely occupied by enlisted

troops. Given that only four huts sites were sampled, such interpretations are only preliminary

and serve to raise questions for further testing.

Discussion and conclusion

In conclusion, the findings of excavations at the McGowan encampment speak to the

crowded and sparse living conditions that Confederate soldiers spent their winter months during

1863-64. One common denominator that appears throughout the huts excavated is the ephemeral

nature of architectural features and the sparseness of artifacts. The lack of material goods

recovered at the McGowan encampment is very apparent when one contrasts the finds from this

camp with those made by relic hunters in contemporary Union camps across the Rapidan River.

In these locations, hundreds of bottles, ceramics vessels, and military equipage and paraphernalia

have been excavated (John Kendrick, personal communication, 2002). While the lower amount

of goods at the McGowan encampment is evident, excavations revealed material disparities

between hut sites that are indicative of the hierarchical chain of command in the camps. While

these differences are not surprising given the rigorous hierarchy built into any military

organization, what is exciting is how this hierarchy manifests itself in the material record. In

particular, the variables most affected (which are seen in many other examples of hierarchically

structured societies) are location, resources available for shelter construction, and access to

goods. What needs further exploration (through excavation of additional hut sites) is whether

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