News  Clients participate in archaeological dig as part of community service project at historic site

Court-involved individuals and probationers—sentenced to perform community service—are participating in an archaeological dig at the Elm Brook Hill area in Lincoln, a site formerly known as the "Bloody Angle" battlefield. This area is "one of the most significant sites connected to the Battle of Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775," according to Louis Strazzullo, Community Service Coordinator. Thirty British soldiers were wounded or killed at Elm Brook Hill on that day.

The site is undergoing "an extensive archaeological preservation project to uncover and preserve the stories as America commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Battle," Mr. Strazzulo said. Geophysical surveys and historical research will continue through the year and will be used in an official National Park Service report which "will guide future phases of the preservation project," according to the Park Service.

Community Service participants, who are involved with the Community Justice Support Center, are working with park department volunteers to clear large tree limbs, prepare walking paths, and place markers to support the archaeological teams.

"These efforts are helping to create safe and accessible conditions for the metal detection surveys while allowing participants to contribute directly to the preservation of American history," said Mr. Strazzullo. "The project has become a meaningful collaboration with Community Service."

"I am impressed and proud of the work our clients are doing together," said Vincent Lorenti, Executive Director of the Office of Community Corrections.

Archaeologists from across the nation are gathering at Elm Brook Hill to conduct metallic and aerial surveys throughout the battlefield.

"Excitement spread through the team as musket balls and other battle-related artifacts were discovered. Each artifact is carefully documented using GPS technology, removed with precision, and catalogued by park curators. These findings continue to provide historians and scholars with valuable insight into the events of April 19, 1775," Mr. Strazzullo said.