In a notable archaeological find, skeletons uncovered beneath a wine shop in St. Augustine, Florida, may be traced back to some of America’s earliest colonists. This discovery offers a unique insight into the lives of the initial European settlers in North America and underscores the rich history of the nation’s oldest city.
Discovery of the Skeletons
Historians and archaeologists have recently unearthed several bones of small children buried under a wine shop in St. Augustine. This site, unexpectedly, turned out to be an ancient graveyard. Among the seven individuals discovered were three children, along with the skeleton of a young white European woman. Pottery fragments found nearby suggest these individuals lived between 1572 and 1586.
Historical Significance
Carl Halbirt, the city archaeologist of St. Augustine, highlighted the significance of this find. “What you’re dealing with is people who made St. Augustine what it is. You’re in total awe. You want to treat everything with respect, and we are,” he stated. These remains likely belong to some of the first settlers in North America, offering invaluable insights into the early colonial period.
The Impact of Hurricane Matthew
The excavation was facilitated by the damage caused by Hurricane Matthew. Flooding from the hurricane led the building’s owner to replace the wooden floor, allowing archaeologists to dig beneath the structure. The building, constructed in 1888, had untouched soil beneath it, acting as a virtual time capsule that preserved these ancient remains.
Connection to the Ancient Church
The wine shop is situated on the site of the ancient Church of Nuestra Señora de la Remedios. According to architectural historian Ellsbeth Gordon, mission churches in Florida buried everyone within the church floor, considered consecrated ground. The church had a tumultuous history, being burned by Sir Francis Drake in 1586, destroyed by a hurricane in 1599, and burned again by the British in 1702. Despite these destructions, the church served as the main meeting point for a colony established 55 years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock.
Preservation of the Remains
While archaeologists plan to move the bones found outside the wine shop to a nearby cemetery, the skeletons discovered inside the shop will remain undisturbed. These bones have lain in their resting place for over 400 years and will continue to be preserved as a testament to the early history of St. Augustine.
Conclusion
The discovery of these ancient skeletons under a Florida wine shop has provided a captivating glimpse into America’s colonial past. These findings not only enhance our understanding of the early settlers but also highlight the historical importance of St. Augustine. As researchers continue to examine these remains, they will undoubtedly reveal more stories of the individuals who played a crucial role in shaping the history of the United States.
