Archaeology Dig Diary June 15, 2005

Archaeology Dig Diary - Wednesday, June 15

Chopping the tree stump The last group of excavators has arrived. With the addition of these interns the excavation team has grown to over 30 individuals. The group is made up of undergraduates from several universities including Virginia , SUNY, Mount Holyoke , Beloit , Mary Washington, and Brigham Young.

The excavation of the building intruded by the 20th-century icehouse has been slowed by the presence of several large tree stumps. Trowels, shovels, and hand axes are used to remove these impediments without damaging important archaeological remains. Brad and Justin are the reigning axe champions.

Work on the structure on the edge of the terrace is progressing nicely with the discovery of two large pits that appear to have been filled in the late 18th century. If this date holds up, this material would have been deposited near the time that Mary Washington left the farm.

Fun Fact: This year’s excavation has recovered several 20th-century toys including glass marbles, plastic car parts, and fragments of baby dolls. These probably belonged to the kids of farm families that lived here during the middle of the 20th century.