2025 Upper Blacksmith Shop
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In the 2025 excavation season a primary focus was the upper Blacksmith shop. It is a relatively large building that contains three hearths, a small, medium and a large one. The small is being kept open for visitors to view. A few artifacts were found and we have them displayed around the site. Unusual for buildings at the Delaware, the outer walls were built using a drystone construction technique, perhaps reflecting the Cornish traditions of the Mine Captains.
The Site
The large area in front of the walkway is the remains of the Upper Blacksmith shop from the 1800's. Most of the area that was excavated has been filled back in to preserve the historical reference. We have kept open one the the hearths right in front so you can see a little more detail
Identifying structure
Grid markings were created and digging began to carefully remove layers of sediment. Along the way some artifacts were found, documented and bagged for later study. This process helped identify the boundaries of the building as well as areas of interest within it.
Hearths
This was the smallest hearth and the one left open for viewing. The intent is to add period correct tools and equipment to the site to better interpret the history of the location.
Building
This is an image of the corner foundation of the building. Unlike most buildings on the site this was constructed from Mine rock but as a dry stack structure with little or no mortar being used.
