Pots have been made in Maryland for over two millennia by Maryland Indians. These were hand formed using local clays, strengthened by adding grit or broken up shell or other materials and sometimes decorated, sometimes not. We will never know …
Although the Brick Chapel has rightfully received the greatest attention, several other structures once stood in the Chapel Field. Some date to the early c. 1635-1645 mission, including the first wood chapel. Another is a structure called the Priest’s House. …
Archaeology at the St. John ‘s site revolutionized our understanding of life in early Maryland and recovered well over a million artifacts. Perhaps the most unique of all found by Ruth Mitchell’s team in 2004 was a thin piece of …
One of the most melancholy aspects of Project Lead Coffins was finding the remains of a tiny baby buried next to the coffins of Philip and Anne Calvert. Archaeology told us that the child had been buried after the two …
Many buildings have been encountered during the archaeological explorations of St. Mary’s City and many more remain to be discovered. Determine their date and purpose can be challenging, especially for outbuildings around which artifacts tend to be far less abundant …
In the 1970s excavations at the Van Swerigen site, many impressive artifacts were found. Most were the objects used in Van Sweringen’s elegant “Lodging House” or those from later occupants of the house in the eighteenth century. In the image …
Fishing is a very popular activity for Marylanders today, enjoying the bounty found in the Chesapeake Bay and the rivers and streams of the state. Was this also the case in the seventeenth century? If so, what fish were popular …
In 1694, Maryland officials faced a dilemma. Maryland’s first Royal Governor, Sir Lionel Copley, had died and, along with his deceased wife, were resting in unburied lead coffins. It was assumed that directions would come from England to have their …
Deep in the lore about early Maryland is the most famous tree in St. Mary’s City. The “Old Mulberry” stood on Church Point were it was long a very prominent sight. Why this tree is notable is because it witnessed …
To prove your identity, especially on important documents, people in the 17th century required more than a signature because signatures could be easily forged. The solution was an ancient one – having a personal seal. Ancient civilizations of the Near …
