In a remarkable archaeological find, dozens of bottles containing preserved cherries and berries have been unearthed from the basement of George Washington's historic home. This discovery was made during an excavation project at Mount Vernon, the first U.S. President’s estate.
Mount Vernon archaeologist Jason Burroughs expressed astonishment at the find, noting that there has never been a similar discovery of completely preserved food from 250 years ago. "The discovery of fresh fruit after 250 years is extraordinary," Burroughs stated.
Among the bottles, some contained whole cherries, while others held gooseberries or currants. The fruits are currently undergoing testing to confirm their identities. Mount Vernon is collaborating with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to conduct DNA tests on the recovered fruits. Additionally, over 50 cherry seeds found in the bottles are being examined to determine their viability for growth.
This find provides a unique glimpse into the past, offering potential insights into the dietary habits and food preservation techniques of the 18th century. The discovery is not only a significant historical find but also an exciting development for archaeologists and historians alike.
