19 July 2022

AM

Early this morning photographs were done of the terra cotta piping in-situ. Once all photography was completed, the trench was prepped for the official declaration of Locus 3, Locus 4, and Locus 5. Soil samples will be taken specifically from Locus 3 and Locus 5 to determine what the soil context within the boundaries of the terra cotta piping can tell us when seen in contrast to soil from outside the pipe boundaries. Special attention will also be paid to materials found within the terra cotta piping as this may be an indicator as to the use of the piping.

Excavation of Locus 3 and Locus 5 began simultaneously. The goal for Locus 3 is to expose and lift the drain fragment so that further exploration and soil sampling can be done. While troweling the soil surrounding the terra cotta pipe, two fragments of diagnostic bone (Special Finds #2 and #3) were found.

Special Find #2: Diagnostic Bone

Coordinates: 170.64 E/ 40.44 S

Elevation: 28.21 m. A.E.

Special Find #3: Diagnostic Bone

Coordinates: 170.49 E/ 40.50 S

Elevation: 28.24 m. A.E.

Excavation continued with the leveling of Locus 5 and the continued defining of the terra cotta piping. It is becoming more evident that the pipe extends further south. It has also become apparent that there is more of the pipe directly to the west of the fragment that has already been revealed, perhaps the other half that collapsed. While there is very little material present within either Locus 3 or 5, it is notable that there are quite a few bone fragments coming from Locus 3, the area directly above the terra cotta piping. Because more of the pipe continues to be revealed, the plan to lift the pipe has been halted and until the remainder of the southern extent has been revealed, will be kept in place.

PM

Post-lunch work continued as before. More terra cotta piping continues to be revealed in the southern extent of the trench. Special care will be taken with this portion as it seems to be slightly crushed in the easternmost extent.

Closing Elevations:

Locus 3:

NW: 28.22 m. A.E.

NE: 28.22 m. A.E.

SE: 28.25 m. A.E.

SW: 28.21 m. A.E.

Locus 4:

NW: 28.20 m. A.E.

NE: 28.15 m. A.E.

SE: 28.22 m. A.E.

SW: 28.18 m. A.E.

Locus 5:

NW: 28.22 m. A.E.

NE: 28.15 m. A.E.

SE: 28.21 m. A.E.

SW: 28.21 m. A.E.

Daily Totals:

Locus 3:

Terra Cotta: 1/10 bowl

Pottery: 12 sherds

Bone: 3 fragments