Remains of Georgetown’s Past Unearthed During Park Renovations, Raising Community Concerns
Construction at Volta Park in Georgetown has revealed a historic burial ground, prompting questions about the handling of discovered human remains and the area’s complex past.
Georgetown residents are voicing concerns after the discovery of human remains at Volta Park, a site undergoing renovations to its ballfields. The unearthed remains, dating back to the 19th century, have brought to light the area’s long-forgotten history as a multi-denominational and multi-class cemetery.
Work at the $700,000 renovation project halted in the fall after an undisturbed grave was identified. More recently, neighbors reported seeing remains and bone fragments exposed in piles of dirt, leading to calls for greater sensitivity and transparency.
A Cemetery for All: The History of Volta Park’s Burial Ground
Volta Park wasn’t always a recreational space. For much of the early 19th century, it served as Georgetown’s primary cemetery, a final resting place for individuals from all walks of life. As Topher Mathews, a neighborhood elected leader, explained, “This was a cemetery that was for rich, for poor, for white, for Black.” This inclusive nature was unusual for the time, reflecting a unique aspect of Georgetown’s early social fabric.
The discovery of these remains isn’t entirely unexpected, given the park’s history. However, the recent exposure of remains in open piles of dirt has understandably caused distress among residents. “These are our Georgetown forbearers,” Mathews stated. “These are people that walked these streets, lived in these homes 150, 200 years ago, and I think anytime you see people treated that way, even if it wasn’t intentional, it’s just alarming.”
City officials have responded by covering the exposed remains with tarps and have committed to respectfully reintering them elsewhere within the park. The renovation project will be adjusted to avoid disturbing the undisturbed grave. But questions remain about the initial handling of the remains and the level of communication with the community.
Did You Know? Georgetown’s history is deeply intertwined with the stories of those buried at Volta Park, offering a unique window into the lives of early Washingtonians.
The discovery also raises broader questions about urban development and the responsibility to acknowledge and respect the past. As cities grow and evolve, encountering historical burial grounds is becoming increasingly common. How do we balance progress with the need to honor those who came before us?
What steps can be taken to ensure that similar discoveries are handled with the utmost sensitivity and respect in the future? And how can communities be more actively involved in the process of uncovering and preserving their history?
Further research into the individuals buried at Volta Park could reveal valuable insights into Georgetown’s social, economic, and cultural landscape. Learn more about Georgetown’s rich history. Understanding their stories is crucial to fully appreciating the significance of this discovery.
The D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation and Department of General Services released a joint statement affirming their commitment to working with archaeologists to ensure the respectful reinterment of the human remains. Visit the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation website for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Volta Park Discoveries
What is the significance of the remains discovered at Volta Park?
The remains represent individuals buried in Georgetown’s primary 19th-century cemetery, a unique burial ground that served people of all social classes and ethnicities.
How are the remains being handled?
City officials are working with archaeologists to respectfully reinter the remains elsewhere within Volta Park, and the renovation project is being adjusted to avoid disturbing an undisturbed grave.
Why were the remains initially exposed in piles of dirt?
The exposure of the remains prompted concerns from residents and led to the covering of the piles with tarps. The exact circumstances are still being investigated.
What is being done to address community concerns about the handling of the remains?
City officials have committed to greater transparency and sensitivity in handling the remains and are working with archaeologists to ensure respectful reinterment.
Will the renovation project at Volta Park be delayed further?
While the project was initially paused, there is no current word on further delays, but it is expected to be completed this spring.
What can residents do to learn more about the history of Volta Park?
Residents can explore local historical societies and archives, as well as online resources, to learn more about the park’s history and the individuals buried there.
Discover more from Archyworldys
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
