In March-June 2021, Applied Archaeology and History Associates, Inc. (AAHA) performed archaeological monitoring during the installation of new utilities in the vicinity of Church Circle in the City of Annapolis, Maryland. The project intends to upgrade the aging gas infrastructure in downtown Annapolis by installing new piping alongside existing pipes and abandoning former gas lines no longer necessary to supply this part of the city. Monitoring exposed various fill deposits up to 1.5 m deep under a variety of streetscapes including asphalt and brick pavers. Utilities, both active and abandoned, and abandoned utility and transportation infrastructure were identified. A portion of streetcar track was discovered in Church Circle south of the northern Church Circle curb near the intersection of Church Circle and South Street. Near 236 Main Street, a circular, articulated brick-lined manhole was uncovered. An unmarked burial, within the boundary of previously identified archaeological site 18AP43, was identified within Church Circle near the northeastern entrance to St. Anne’s Parish between the intersection of Church Circle with School Street and College Avenue. The remains were reinterred at the request of the Maryland Historic Trust on April 22, 2021.
