Update: Archaeology at the Nathaniel Russell House
The latest phase of archaeology field work is now complete at the Nathaniel Russell House, but the Kitchen House Project, continues. Lead archaeologist on the project, Dr. Andrew Agha, is now working in the laboratory to clean, catalog, and study the thousands of artifacts discovered in the cellar excavation. The site was so rich in findings that the scope of this initial phase of the project was expanded to include a comparative analysis with objects found in previous excavations. While lab work, research, and report writing are ongoing, Museum staff is busy planning ways to share the important Kitchen House stories through monthly archaeology programs and new artifact exhibits.
Among the exciting finds were ceramics, glassware, tools, and other daily-use items that paint a vivid picture of life at the Nathaniel Russell House during the nineteenth century. To take our visitors behind-the-scenes of these discoveries, we’re sharing exclusive videos on our Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts to dive deeper into the significance of these finds and an up-close look at our team’s ongoing work to uncover and interpret the past. Follow along to stay connected with each step of this journey!
Now, with the cellar space cleared and safe access obtained to the Kitchen House’s flooring system, the next phase of this critical project can begin. Preservation contractor Richard Marks is currently working with a structural engineer to finalize plans to stabilize the wood floors and the two large brick hearths. The stabilization phase of the project, supported by the Foundation Board’s $100,000 allocation, is projected to occur early next year. The exhibit space continues to be accessible for tours during this work.
Be on the look out for a special talk in the new year, where Dr. Andrew Agha will present an in-depth discussion of the findings, allowing guests to view the artifacts up close and learn more about what they reveal about the site’s history. As always, be sure to stop by 51 Meeting Street to tour the National Historic Landmark in person and see history unfold in real time.