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Wharves, privies, and the pewterer: Two colonial period sites on the Shawmut Peninsula, Boston

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Abstract

During the 18th century, the urbanization of Boston included the development of the low-lying portions of the Shawmut Peninsula. The Paddy’s Alley (BOS-HA-12) and Mill Pond (BOS-HA-14) sites are located on a narrow isthmus connecting Boston’s North End to the rest of the peninsula. Excavations at these sites allowed the examination of a variety of research topics: waterfront modification, sanitation, land use, and commercial activities. At the Paddy’s Alley site, excavations were located at the rear of two residential lots. These areas had been used as a garden and for a workshop. The Mill Pond site was located at the rear of property abutting Mill Pond. Landmaking and wharf construction along the water’s edge, as well as use of the area for a stable, was recorded. Excavation procedures included use of the Harris system of stratigraphie recording that provided detailed stratigraphic control.

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Balicki, J.F. Wharves, privies, and the pewterer: Two colonial period sites on the Shawmut Peninsula, Boston. Hist Arch 32, 99–120 (1998). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03374264

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