Child Remains of African Descent Found in 17th-Century Maryland Graveyard

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Archaeological discovery of an 8-year-old child with African and European ancestry in a 17th-century Maryland graveyard sheds light on early colonial social structures and the ambiguous status of enslaved individuals.

Child Remains of African Descent Found in 17th-Century Maryland Graveyard
Image credit: Live Science - Archaeology

Archaeological Deep Analysis

During an archaeological excavation in Maryland (USA), skeletal remains of an eight-year-old child were discovered in a 17th-century burial site. DNA analysis revealed the child had predominantly African ancestry, with approximately 25-30% European genetic heritage [1]. The child was buried wrapped in a shawl and placed in a coffin with a drip roof, consistent with burial customs of the period. Isotope analysis confirmed the child was born in North America [1].

Critical Findings

  • Genetic analysis of the child's bones indicated predominantly African, with partial European ancestry.
  • Isotope analysis demonstrated the child was born in North America.
  • The burial took place in a 17th-century Maryland colonial cemetery alongside individuals of European descent; at this time, the legal framework of slavery had not yet been fully established.

Historical Context and Connections to the Past

The 17th-century Maryland colony was established by English settlers. During this period, both European indentured servants and individuals of African descent were part of the population. However, the institutionalization of slavery did not fully take shape until the 18th century [2]. In this context, the burial of an African-descended child alongside colonists in the same cemetery suggests that the social hierarchy of the time may have been more complex and fluid than previously assumed.

Archaeologist's Note

This discovery not only reveals details about burial practices but also reopens debates about how concepts of slavery and freedom were defined during the early colonial period. Although the child’s burial features align with formal customs of the era, this does not necessarily reflect legal status. Researchers emphasize that such findings are critical for understanding social realities beyond written records [1].

References and Further Reading

  • [1] 8-year-old African American boy from Colonial Maryland found buried with white Colonists, and it's unclear if he was enslaved. yahoo.com. Go to Original Source
  • [2] 8-year-old African American boy from Colonial Maryland found buried with white Colonists, and it's unclear if he was enslaved | ScienceWireDaily. sciencewiredaily.com. Go to Original Source