During the restoration work on the 1887 statue, archaeologists stumbled upon an enigmatic box concealed within its base. Recognizing the potential historical significance, they promptly initiated the filming of the unboxing process and its contents.
Nestled beneath the pedestal, the container’s discovery prompted the immediate summoning of specialized experts, with archaeologist Kate Ridgway leading the investigative team. Initially skeptical due to constant exposure to humidity, experts hesitated to believe anything could endure within.
Under the vigilant eye of museum staff, the box was gingerly opened, revealing a surprising preservation of its hidden contents. Numerous artifacts from the 19th century surfaced, including minutes from local Masonic lodge meetings, the Masonic sign, and various newspaper articles. Of particular intrigue were the sealed documents, stirring keen interest among onlookers.
Regrettably, water had infiltrated the box, necessitating months for historians to painstakingly recover archives nearly 130 years old.
Despite the valuable findings, historians have chosen not to disclose the uncovered documents at this point, deeming the information potentially sensitive for society. The box’s concealment beneath a statue of a Confederate general adds an extra layer of complexity to the unfolding narrative.
