Features: May 6, 2002

Archeological Dig Begins to Unearth 19th Century History at Rensselaer

Archeologists have begun digging for history on the south side of campus in the parking lots located behind Cogswell Lab, adjacent to College Avenue.

The site is of historical interest because the homes of 19th-century laborers were once located there. Foundations of former homes, privies, and a cistern already have been unearthed. Clay pipes, toothbrushes made from bone, and old water bottles, among other artifacts, also have been found.

Jodi Ackerman

Hartgen Archeological Associates, a local firm, have been hired to recover and document artifacts found at the site where Rensselaer is planning to build a parking garage.

The State Historic Preservation Act, administered through the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, requires an investigation to determine whether an area to be developed is considered to have historical significance. If so, an archeological excavation must take place to collect artifacts and identify historical structures.