The Archaeology of Seneca Village

One of the main reasons we know so much about Seneca Village is because of a major archaeological excavation project conducted in 2011, the findings of which were synthesized in the report, "Seneca Village, A Forgotten Community," published in 2018. Organized by the Institute for the Exploration of Seneca Village History, the project unearthed hundreds of artifacts that have contributed to our understanding of Seneca Village.

The NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, which oversees all archaeology projects in public parks and safeguards all the artifacts excavated from City parks, created a digital exhibit featuring the artifacts excavated from Seneca Village.

The blending of historical documentary research and archaeological excavations, known professionally as Historical Archaeology, provides a richness of detail that each subject alone cannot bring. Below, artifacts used by Charlotte and William Godfrey Wilson highlight the day-to-day lives of Seneca Villagers that are otherwise absent from documentary sources. Explore more: In the Wilsons’ Kitchen: Discoveries from Seneca Village.

Photos courtesy of the New York City Archaeological Repository.

One nearly complete light blue transfer printed and molded gothic style whiteware teapot consisting of 49 mended body, handle, spout, and rim sherds.

Printed Gothic-Style Whiteware Teapot

Five faceted cobalt blue glass beads. Some of the beads have traces of a copper alloy wire.

Faceted Glass Beads

One bone toothbrush handle with a missing brush head. The bottom of the toothbrush is chipped. The edges of the handle are slightly beveled.

Bone Toothbrush Handle