Alamo Archaeology Church Preservation - September 19

Archaeological investigations continued on the south side of the Alamo Church. Archaeologists completed EU 144 and continued at EU-135. A new unit—EU141—was opened immediately south of EU-140.

Archaeologists in EU-135 reached an approximate depth of 90 cm below surface by the end of the week. The team identified multiple features in the unit and recovered several diagnostic artifacts. One of the more fascinating features was a combination of two stone alignments that form a corner. The alignment was first revealed in the previous week but further excavation has exposed the alignment across the unit. This alignment appears to correspond with a previously encountered alignment from EU-144 which was preliminarily identified as a wall foundation for the late 1800s police substation. The construction technique and top elevation of the alignment in EU-135 match the feature from EU-144. There was also a caliche and lime surface within the unit and extending beneath the alignment. Additionally, archaeologists revealed two large post molds at approximately 70 cm below surface. The post molds appear to predate the construction of the stone alignments. Artifacts include Goliad ware ceramic sherds and lithic material.

Archaeologists in EU-144 completed excavations at a depth of approximately 150 cm below surface. No additional features were encountered this week and artifacts were restricted to snail shell. Archaeologists were well into the clay loam that underlays the Mission period deposit across the Alamo site. A high density of snail shell in the soil may indicate an absence of permanent human occupation at the site. Archaeologists also completed final documentation and the Conservation team also assessed the Church walls.

A new unit—EU 141—was started late last week. The unit is adjacent to the south side of EU-140. Archaeologists were able to complete one level by the end of the week. This top level was full of landscaping gravel and old irrigation conduits. Excavation will continue this week.