News Release
Century-Old Bone Fragments Consistent With Adult Male
January 12, 2009
Fredericton (January 9, 2009) - An investigation into bone fragments found at the construction site of the Fredericton conference centre on October 21, 2008 has concluded they are likely from an adult male. The context in which the bones were found dates back to the late 19th century or early 20th century.
The bones were identified as human by an archaeologist and human osteologist from Jacques Whitford, and confirmed by forensic anthropologist Moira McLaughlin of St. Thomas University.
The bone fragments, which in total make up about 2.5 per cent of a complete skeleton, are from the arm, leg, pelvis and rib cage area and are consistent with being from one person.
The bones were originally discovered during routine work to prepare the Queen Street site for construction of a new conference centre, office complex and parking garage in the City's downtown core.
After a historical overview was completed, extensive archaeological testing was undertaken by Jacques Whitford, an environmental engineering company hired by the City, prior to construction work beginning on the site. In addition, a response protocol was developed by the consultant in the event archaeological material was found during construction.
Once the bones were identified as human, a team of archaeologists under a license issued by Archaeological Services Unit of the Province of New Brunswick was called in to carefully excavate the area where the bones were found.
Bottle, glass and dinnerware pieces found with the bone fragments were consistent with the period of British settlement of Downtown Fredericton. The context and amount of bone recovered do not indicate the presence of a cemetery and there was no indication that additional human remains are present on the site.
"This appears to be an isolated incident with no real explanation as to how, 100 years ago, the bone fragments came to rest on the site," said Chris Blair, senior archaeologist with Jacques Whitford. "We will monitor the site for any other archaeologically significant discoveries as construction continues."
The bone fragments will be turned over to the City of Fredericton for interment under the direction of the Regional Coroner.