several 19th century "ash pits" found at the john kent russell house site

multiple "ash pits" were recently discovered (in addition to the documented brick-lined privies) on the site of the former john kent russell house as we continue to excavate before the "earth movers" roll in to finally eradicate any and all remains left by the former occupants in preparation for the construction of three-story condo.

the ash pits yielded a vast amount of artifacts dating to the late 19th century - well after john kent russell moved his family to oak park, where he would live out the rest of his days.

prior to 1900 several families had called the russell house home, which for years was divided into multiple apartments occupied by working class chicagoans.

despite our recent discoveries (see a sampling in the gallery), we believe there are many more of these refuse pits to be discovered. in addition, we feel the continued digging of the existing privies and the excavation, in preparation for the new building's foundation, will bring to light numerous artifacts dating to russell's time (i.e., 1855-60).

in the meantime, we will continue to explore the ash pits until the permitted exvacation begins. at the level or depth we are digging at, i highly doubt we will find the artifacts we truly seek.