Walking around modern Gloucester Courthouse, you may never suspect that the area was once an important place of power for the Native American chief Powhatan (also know as Wahunsunacock.)
Not much can be seen above ground of the thriving residence that existed there some 400 years ago, but a historical marker commemorates the site.
The marker located on Main Street at the Courthouse Circle (Virginia Route 14) reads:
“The site of Werowocomoco is located nearby at Purtan Bay. This Algonquian Indian settlement was the center of power of the Powhatan paramount chiefdom when the English established James Fort in 1607. Captain John Smith was brought to Werowocomoco as a captive in December 1607 where he met the Powhatan leader Wahunsonacock and his daughter Pocahontas. Archaeologists working closely with present-day members of Virginia Indian tribes investigated the site from 2002 to 2010. They documented that Werowocomoco was an extensive settlement, including trenches defining an area of restricted access or sacred space, from the 13th century through the early 17th century.”
Werowocomoco, which translated from the Virginian Algonquian language means “place of leadership,” is known to be the residence of political and spiritual leader chief Powhatan. His daughter, Pocahontas would have resided there as well. From this location Powhatan was able to communicate and influence many other tribal communities in the area and their leaders.
In spring of 1607 Captain John Smith recorded meeting Powhatan and Pocahontas after being captured and brought to Werowocomoco. This meeting was of much historical significance and would lead to a series of both friendly and violent interactions. After many attempts at cooperation led to conflict, Powhatan eventually moved his headquarters to another location. Werowocomoco would sit in silence for many years following.
The story of John Smith and Pocahontas has been adapted into a popular animated movie that many know and love.
Much of the history of Werewocomoco has been unearthed in a series of Archeological explorations beginning in 2001 and continuing through 2010. Many of the artifacts from these ventures can be seen at the Jamestown Settlement.
Information courtesy of the National Park Service.
