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.
Rationale: Test Cut AS was excavated to investigate a collection of cobblestones found in the backyard of Lot 8. The cobblestone turned out to be Belgian Blocks. The blocks were removed from their original location sometime in the 20th century and stored in the basement of what was then public school (P.S. 15 and 134), which was in operation between 1885-1922.
Results: Subsoil found in the eastern third of the test cut to a depth of 29-inches below excavation surface.
Lot 8, Test Cut AS, Stratum VI, Level A
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Collection method
Shovel, Screen (1/4-inch mesh). Arbitrary 4-inch Level.
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Soil description
Tan Silt with Green Mottles
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Munsell
10YR 6/6, 5Y 6/2
