Archaeologists in Quebec City believe they could be very close to finding two mass graves. They are the last resting place for as many as two thousand French and English soldiers who were killed in the battles of the Plains of Abraham and Ste. Foy.
The archeological dig is going on in the middle of sewer and water road work - something not uncommon for the city.
"The Quebec City area is one of the riches areas for archaeology in North America," says archaeologist William Moss.
Other recent projects include the Dufferin Terrace, considered rich in artifacts from the very early days of the colonies, and another site up river which marks the first effort to establish a European presence in the area.
"Today's search has huge potential as well," says Moss. "They could reveal how many soldiers died during the battles of 1759 and 60...and much more."
Much of the information will come from the study of bone fragments.
"We have a paleoanthropologist working with us who would be able to identify the causes of death in certain circumstances,' says Moss
Already the team has found a unique type of coffin at the site of the dig, one that could date back to around 1728.
Though elements of the current dig give the anthropologists hope of finding the mass graves, they admit that coffins will not likely be part of any such discovery.
"If you have three four five hundred individuals they would be piled up very rapidly," says Moss. "There was probably lime put in with them as well. So, there will be a lot of markers."
If they find the mass graves, the team will remain at the site for many weeks.
Otherwise, the road contractor will resume work installing manholes.
The contract included a clause stating that work was to be suspended if historical elements were found – respect for graves before construction.
Source: Montreal ctv [July 09, 2010]
