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US Route 301 Archaeology Update

Written on: July 24th, 2013 in Archaeology Updates, US301

Alternative Mitigation of the Polk Tenant Site (7NC-F-111)

Cross-section of a well excavated in the late 1980s
at the Thomas Williams Site near Glasgow.

Versar continues to collect information on previously excavated wells from all over the state of Delaware. Last month we reviewed more than 100 archaeology reports prepared for DelDOT over the last 30 years.  That review found that at least 50 wells have been identified across the state as a result of archaeological research conducted in advance of highway improvements. Wells have been found on historical home sites, farmsteads, dairy farms, stores, and blacksmith shops dating from the mid-1600’s through mid-1900s.  Materials used in the construction of these wells included wood timbers, barrels, stone, and brick.  The wells consist of both square and round shafts, with round being the most common form. This month we will visit the Archives of the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs in Dover.  There Versar researchers will review reports from non-DelDOT sponsored archaeological investigations.  We plan to examine reports conducted by other state agencies, federal agencies and the military, universities, or by volunteer community groups such as the Archaeological Society of Delaware.

To learn more about this site, visit: https://deldot.gov/environmental/archaeology/williams/index.shtml