Experts to Examine Bones Found in Center City Park

by KYW’s Karin Phillips

An archaeological team is expected in Philadelphia shortly to examine some human remains found on Washington Square.

A PECO Energy crew working on the southwest corner of Sixth and Walnut Streets discovered a nest of bones that have been identified as human remains. Next comes a team of archaeologists to determine where the bones came from.

Jane Cowley, Public Affairs Officer for Independence National Historical Park, says Washington Square was used as a cemetery between 1700 and 1800, but many of the remains were moved as the park was developed:

“I think this is a reminder for all of us of the history that we're all walking over every day. And Washington Square is sometimes overlooked; it's a square where people come and sit on a bench and read a book, and that's wonderful. But it is also an important historical site that has to be treated with appropriate dignity for what it contains.”