Historic St. Mary's City Archaeology, Research and Collections has unveiled a new, colorized drawing of St. Mary's Fort. This updated illustration, created by Jeffrey Parno, integrates the latest archaeological findings from the past four years, providing a more accurate representation of the 17th-century fort.
The new drawing highlights three significant updates based on recent excavations and ground-penetrating radar (GPR) results. First, the colorized sections of the drawing indicate features that have been confirmed through archaeological digs. These sections represent the verified structures and layouts, offering a glimpse into the fort's authentic historical appearance. The remaining parts of the drawing, while still informative, are primarily based on GPR results and not yet confirmed by physical excavation.
2020 St. Mary's Fort Drawing
2024 St. Mary's Fort Drawing
One of the most notable updates is the inclusion of a small square bastion located on the northern corner of the fort. This feature was not identified in earlier GPR surveys but was revealed through recent archaeological work. The addition of this bastion provides new insights into the fort's defensive capabilities and overall design, suggesting a more complex structure than previously understood.
Another significant change in the updated drawing is the depiction of Maryland's first storehouse. This large, colorized building now occupies the central area of the fort, replacing what had previously been thought to be three separate, smaller buildings. The discovery and confirmation of this substantial storehouse not only alter the perceived layout of the fort but also highlight its importance in the early colonial economy of Maryland.
Jeffrey Parno's work in updating the drawing of St. Mary's Fort showcases the dynamic nature of archaeological research. As new discoveries are made, historical interpretations must be revised to reflect these findings accurately. This updated drawing is a testament to the ongoing efforts of archaeologists and researchers dedicated to uncovering and preserving the history of Maryland's first colonial capital.
The fort, originally established in 1634 by English settlers, was a critical site in the early history of Maryland. Over the years, numerous excavations have taken place at Historic St. Mary's City, each contributing to a deeper understanding of the site's historical significance. The latest discoveries, as depicted in Parno's drawing, underscore the importance of continued archaeological work in uncovering the past.
The integration of new archaeological data into visual representations like Parno's drawing not only aids researchers but also helps the public engage with history in a more tangible way. By seeing the confirmed features of St. Mary's Fort, both scholars and the general public can gain a clearer picture of life in early colonial Maryland.
Historic St. Mary's City Archaeology, Research and Collections continues to encourage public interest and involvement in archaeology through exhibits, educational programs, and community events. The updated drawing of St. Mary's Fort will likely be a central feature in future displays, providing visitors with an up-to-date and accurate depiction of this significant historical site.
As archaeological methods and technologies advance, it is expected that further discoveries will continue to refine our understanding of St. Mary's Fort and other historical sites. The work at Historic St. Mary's City serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of historical research and the ongoing quest to uncover the truths of the past.
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