Market Square Reclamation: May 6 CARF Update
A Cataraqui Archaeological Research Foundation (CARF) team is providing regular updates on its progress as it explores Kingston's Market Square prior construction of a new public space. The report below was prepared by S. Bazely.
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CONTINUED SITE PREPARATION
- Mechanical excavation was carried out in the Phase 1 area (east of the current area of archaeological investigation) in the area of the existing concrete planters and steps, which were removed for the construction of the ice groomer gazebo - this is at the northwest corner of the existing rear wing of City Hall.
FINDINGS
- In the area of new mechanical excavation, adjacent to and part of 2D, there are more foundations of the tenement houses and possibly tavern along Brock Street - there is continued evidence of the 1840 fire as well as artifacts that date to this period.
- The stratigraphy in the area adjacent to 2D and 2C contains layers that are interpreted as earlier structures c. 1800-1830.
- Running adjacent to the boundaries of 2D (south edge) and 2C (north edge) and extending to 2A (south edge) is a long linear alignment of stone starting near the northeast corner of the current City Hall and extending towards King Street - this appears to be a stone revetment which is consistent with the position and form of the 1756 French earthworks - the pre-1840s structures appear to be built on top of and into this.
- In the area of 2C which contains the soft limestone rubble fill interpreted as a 19th or 20th century disturbance, remnants of the stone piers forming the north arcaded wall of the Market Wing have been exposed - there are an additional 3 piers evident, although the post-1865 event has demolished these almost down to bedrock.
- In 2B excavation has begun into the 1865 burn deposit, located between the two interior stone walls of the Market Wing.
- The stone curbing located at the top of the stone steps may have once supported boardwalks - there is photographic evidence of this from the 1880s - there is also a surface drain running parallel to the stone curb and steps.
MEDIA COVERAGE & PUBLIC EDUCATION
- CKWS-TV news show and COGECO Cable aired segments on the project on Monday, May 3, at 5:30 and 6:30 p.m.
- Project information was provided to CBC Radio.
- Schools tours will be held the mornings of May 12, 17, 19, 24 and 26.
- The crew continues to provide information on the general history and findings to date to visitors who stop at the fence.
