[MassHistPres] Finding what lies beneath

[Mike Potaski]

The Uxbridge Historical Commission is having an historical architecture study done on the historic Cornet John Farnum House. This is intended to identify issues with the structure that need to be remedied to ensure its survival through the Town's tricentennial in 2027 and beyond.

The house once had an ell that's clearly shown on old depictions and undoubtedly a well. I'm impressed with the archaeological work done on the Skerry House in Salem and would love to do the same here. The house was a family home through 1797 then was a mill tenement through 1968 so there's probably quite a bit to find with nearly 300 years of continuous occupation. At a minimum, if GPR or actual digging could find the outline of the now-demolished ell, it would allow for a visual depiction perhaps by uncovering the top course of stone from the foundation.

How do we start down this road?  Does the DCR Archaeologist or MHC provide advice? Are there grants that would help with costs?

Michael Potaski
Uxbridge Historical Commission
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