Recent Phase II CRM Projects

Phase II Archaeological Site Examination of The Dunn Site (18AP84), 44 West Street, Annapolis, Maryland

ABSTRACT

Hermann Dunn Real Estate and The John Filkins Group, Inc. proposed the demolition of a series of 20th-century additions to the rear of 44 West Street in Annapolis, Maryland (Maryland Archeological Research Unit 7) for the construction of modern offices. The approximately 2,500-square foot project area has been associated with various residential and commercial operations since its associated lot was originally surveyed in 1718. Andrew Garte & Associates conducted a Phase II archaeological site examination at the site of the demolition in April 2000.

Archival research indicates that history of 44 West Street can only be evaluated when considered a part of the main structures and additions that make up the properties known as 40-50 West Street. This location has served as the site of multiple historic residences and businesses including a Tavern, Barber Shop, Restaurant and Lodging, Grocery, Ice Cream Salon, Bakery, Hotel, Clothing Store, Saloon, Wall Paper Shop, and Dry Goods Store.

Phase II site testing included the excavation of six 8 X 3-foot backhoe trenches within the area of demolition behind the 44 West Street facade. All trenches were excavated under the direction of the Project Archaeologist. Limited artifact collection was undertaken for the purposes of dating stratigraphy and interpreting the site. The location of each trench was mapped and at least one profile, from each trench, was recorded with drawings and photographs.

Excavations clearly illustrated the many building and/or renovation events that have taken place on the eastern portion of the site. Multiple wall foundations, chimney bases, and brick lined floors were documented in addition to a 4.5-foot diameter well or cistern. Archival and artifactual evidence has allowed for the dating of many, but not all, of these features. Of particular importance is the brick paved floor that was encountered at 1.5-feet below the surface in two trenches. This floor appears to be associated with a circa 1900 bakery and may have aided in the preservation of an 18th century deposit which lies below it, as indicated by the collection of a North Devon Gravel Tempered Earthenware sherd from beneath it.

The northern and western portions of the site have undergone fewer intensive building events, serving as a yard until the 20th century. Excavations revealed a possible 18th century sheet midden at a depth of 2-feet in these areas. Dateable artifacts recovered from this midden include Tin-glazed Earthenware, Staffordshire Slipware, and white clay tobacco pipe stems. The density of oyster shell and other faunal remains in this midden suggest a potential association with the taverns that occupied the site in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

The intact brick paved bakery floor and the extensive sheet midden indicate that there is additional research potential for the 44 West Street site. Further archaeological study is recommended to sample these deposits. A limited Phase III research design is proposed.