18th Century Glass Bottle Discovery

What was found in the glass bottles discovered at George Washington's Mount Vernon home?

Why is the discovery of 250-year-old preserved fruit described as spectacular?

When were the glass bottles likely buried?

Who is the principal archaeologist involved in the excavation of the bottles?

What variety of cherries is suggested to have been preserved in the bottles?

What is one of the future plans for the preserved cherry seeds?

What significant historical insight might come from analyzing the cherries?

What role did the enslaved community have regarding the bottled fruits?

18th Century Glass Bottle Discovery at Mount Vernon

Archaeologists unearthed 35 glass bottles at George Washington's Mount Vernon home, dating back to the mid-1700s.
29 bottles contained perfectly preserved cherries and berries (likely gooseberries or currants).
Discovery made during a $40 million revitalization project excavating six storage pits in the cellar.
Bottles manufactured in England.
Likely buried sometime before 1776, prior to Washington leading the Continental Army (1775).

Significance of the Find

"Finding fresh fruit from 250 years ago is spectacular," stated archaeologist Jason Boroughs.
The preservation required exceptional conditions.
Bottles reveal insights into daily life, culinary practices of the Washingtons and surrounding community.
Potentially intended for the Washington's table, but likely preserved and stored by enslaved community members.
Important artifacts show connections between people and objects from the past.

Scientific Analysis and Future Plans

Preserved fruits sent to USDA scientists for analysis.
Initial reports suggest the cherries likely a tart variety, aiding preservation.
DNA extraction planned to identify exact cherry species and understand Virginia's climatic changes over time.
Seeds potentially germinated to create a living historical artifact.

Explore the archaeological find of 35 glass bottles at George Washington's Mount Vernon. Dating back to the mid-1700s, these bottles contained preserved fruits and provide insights into the culinary practices of the time. This discovery sheds light on the daily lives of the Washingtons and their community.