The rear yard of the Dutch House will be used as a Native Garden in the near future, filled with trees, foliage and fauna for the public to enjoy. The process of planting as well as the future growth of trees and shrub roots will permanently disturb archeological evidence present in the rear yard. The New Castle Historic Society has called upon John Milner Associates to excavate the rear yard over a two week period. Ground Penetrating Radar (commonly referred to as GPR) used in the rear yard indicate several anomalies that John Milner Associates Inc. has begun to excavate in the form of test pits, square 2.5' x 2.5' holes in the ground. Although the anomalies were believed to be only a few centimeters under the surface much more thorough and deeper excavations have been necessary. Thus far, the holes are turning out to be three feet or deeper. The depths of the test pits are similar to those that were found at the Amstel House but still rather deep for the area.
The progress of the excavations at the Dutch House relies heavily on the support of volunteers. There is always work to do with screening and artifact cleaning. Volunteers this week have already helped enormously. It's your history, come and be a part of its unveiling!
