Introduction: Lots 8, 9, and 15 are modern designations for adjacent parcels of land fronting Pearl Street that were owned together and used as a single property until the early 1830's. Excavations produced important discoveries like that of the Colonial-era Lovelace Tavern, proving that significant archaeological resources could still exist in urban spaces. Project archaeologists were able to lobby for increased time and funds to continue their work on the strength of these finds, leading to additional discoveries. In all, the project provided considerable information about the history of New York City and its inhabitants from the 17th to the 20th centuries.
Rationale: Test Cut A1 along with A, E, G and G1 were the first units excavated as part of the Stadt Huys project. The purpose of these cuts was to explore the stratigraphy of the area. Archaeologists realized that a considerable amount of modern fill was overlaying important materials and deposits. Project staff then determined that the best course of action was to remove the modern fill by machine to save time and energy. The information gleaned from these test cuts were instrumental in the development of the site's excavation methodology.
Results: All of the levels excavated in Test Cut A1 included mixed artifacts in modern fill. No intact deposits were uncovered. Archaeologists discovered a concrete basement floor at 30-34-inches below the excavation, at which point the test cut was discontinued. The basement floor was also uncovered in Test Cuts A, G and M.
Lot 8, Test Cut A1, Stratum IV, Level A
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Collection method
Trowel, screen (1/4-inch mesh). Arbitrary 4-inch levels.
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Soil description
Brown sandy silt with gray and green clay
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Munsell
10YR 5/4, 5 Y 6/3, 10YR 5/6
