Introduction: Lots 8, 9, and 15 are modern designations for adjacent parcels of land 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.
The tavern was constructed by the second English Governor of New York, Francis Lovelace, around 1670. Taverns were important spaces for colonial communities, serving as centralized meeting places that fulfilled important social, recreational, political, and economic functions. Lovelace Tavern became New York's temporary City Hall starting in the late-17th century after the Stadt Huys fell into disrepair and was demolished in 1706.
Rationale: Remains of the Lovelace Tavern were first encountered during the excavation of Test Cut AQ. As a result, a total of five units were archaeologically tested in the immediate area (Test Cuts AQ, AQ1, AQ2, AQ3, and AQ4). Archaeologists discovered six major stratigraphical layers representing different depositional events -- the most important being those related to the construction, use, and destruction of the Lovelace Tavern. Overall, archaeologists excavated 27 test cuts inside, adjacent to, or within the walls of the tavern, representing around fifty-percent of the total area.
Results: This level is part of a larger layer of subsoil that predates the construction of the tavern. Some historic artifacst were found in the upper part of the layer, though their occurance decreased with depth. The subsoil eventually became sterile.
Lot 8, Test Cut AQ2, Stratum VIII, Level A
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Collection method
Trowel, Screen (1/4-inch mesh). Natural Level.
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Soil description
Red Sand with Silt Lenses
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Munsell
7.5YR 5/6
