Archaeologists conduct dig on Princess Street

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — History buffs got a chance to see Wilmington in a unique way Saturday with an archaeological dig.

The dig, headed by Public Archaeology Corps, is taking a deeper look under a building on Princess Street in Downtown Wilmington. The building is being renovated and the construction company contacted the archaeologists to look at the area where they plan to build an elevator shaft.

The building was constructed around 1915 for the fraternal order, The Order of Knights of Pythias. So far, the dig has turned up clothing, glass bottles, documents, and pieces of china. Archaeologist Jonathan Schleier said the digs give a better understanding of the area.

“You know, the landscape wasn’t always like it is,” Schleier. “This street would have been completely different back in 1890 and this is a good way to see.”

CLICK HERE for more information about public digs and Public Archaeology Corps.