South Street Seaport Becomes Archaeological Site Covering Centuries

Remnants of early New York life are being discovered steps from Wall Street

New York City has become an archaeological site, with thousands of artifacts such as an 18th-century bone toothbrush and champagne bottles corked centuries ago unearthed to prove it.

Other items uncovered in lower Manhattan include a copper half-penny and a pair of children's shoes. They're remnants of early New York life workers discovered steps from Wall Street while digging to install new utilities for the growing residential and business South Street Seaport area.

Last week, 100 liquor bottles from the 18th century popped up. Some are still intact and corked.

Alyssa Loorya is an archaeologist whose Brooklyn firm is overseeing the excavation. She said Wednesday "you never know what you'll find right underneath your feet" in New York City.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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