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. Overall, archaeologists excavated 27 test cuts inside, adjacent to, or within the walls of the tavern, representing around fifty-percent of the total area. Three test cuts (BY, BR, and BT) were placed along the Lovelace Tavern's eastern stone wall as it abutted Pearl Street. Test Cut BR was placed east of Test Cut BY and north of Test Cut BT. Tavern deposits were found in both halves of the test cut, while remnants of the wall were only found in the western portion.
Results: A thin layer of disturbed, dark brown soil containing rubble and mixed materials was found across the surface of the test cut to 1.5-inches below surface except for the unit's southeast corner, which went to 5-inches below surface due to backhoe operations. A deeper pocket was also found in the cut's northwest corner.
Lot 9, Test Cut BR, Strata IV, Level A
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Collection method
Trowel, Screen (1/2-inch mesh). Natural Level.
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Soil description
Yellow-Brown Silt
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Munsell
5YR 3/2 - 7.5YR 3/2
