The Middlesex County Office of Cultural and Heritage, in partnership with the Archaeological Society of New Jersey, will hold a unique public archaeology event at one of the earliest English settlement sites in Middlesex County. This excavation will be held at the areas surrounding the Piscatawaytown Burial Ground and St. James Episcopal Church located at 2316 Woodbridge Ave. in Edison. The two consecutive dates for the “rain or shine” event are Saturday, Sept. 26 from 1 to 4 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 27 from 1 to 4 p.m.
The remnants of the Piscataway village and town commons can still be seen in modern Edison Township. Settled in the late 1600s by New Englanders, this historic site once consisted of a town hall, militia training ground, stockade, jail, church, burial ground and houses.
Visitors will be able to participate in field work, under the supervision of professional archaeologists, in the quest to uncover remains of the original village in two predetermined dig locations. In addition to the chance to aid the archaeologists, this program will include guided tours of historic St. James Episcopal Church and the Piscatawaytown Burial Ground. Members of the Metuchen-Edison Historical Society will host a display featuring earlier research completed at the site.
Since 1931, the Archaeological Society of New Jersey has sponsored events like this one to promote archeology, support preservation of important archaeological sites and artifacts and to assist in investigation and interpretation using approved, professional methods.
This event is held free of charge and prior registration is NOT required. Parking is available at the rear of St. James Church along Germantown Avenue. Call (732) 745-3030, ext. 310 for directions or information.