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 AO1 was excavated to further investigate archaeological features found in Test Cut AO. These features include a cistern, privy, builder's trench, and foundation wall. Importantly, the excavations of the test cuts in the backyard of Lot 9 revealed that this area was the most archaeologically intact on the entire project. This means that many archaeological features, artifacts, and intact stratigraphical layers were discovered during testing. Test Cut AO1 is an important resource for understanding the historical development of Lot 9.
Results: A 19th-century, dry-laid stone and brick privy (Feature 12) was found in Test Cut AO1. The privy was installed sometime between 1810-1830 and abandoned by the 1850s. Archaeologists discovered the remains of an historic wooden post, or postmold, at the bottom of the privy. The feature was found to extend from 78- to 86-inches below the privy surface. Project archaeologists were unable to determine exactly when the postmold was installed and used, though it may have been a support for the intrusive 1880s boundary wall.
Lot 9, Test Cut AO1, Stratum XXIV, Level A
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Collection method
Trowel, Screen (1/4-inch mesh). Natural Level.
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Soil description
Post-Mold with Black Silt
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Munsell
5YR 2.5/2
