An archaeological dig kicks off tomorrow with the aim of discovering more about life in bygone Bermuda. The National Trust’s Archaeology Committee is heading the project at the Verdmont historic house in Smith’s. A number of Bermudian students and volunteers will work on the dig, which is the second to be carried out at Verdmont.

Richard Lowry of the committee said: “As archaeologists we are interested in the social as well as architectural history of Verdmont, using artefacts to tell the story of all the people who lived and worked at the site, not just the people in history books.

“Last year we were astonished at the wealth of archaeology we uncovered from a small number of test pits. These included intact 19th century bottles, 18th century ceramics, a wide variety of animal bones and even an iron cauldron. These finds are very helpful in piecing together what people ate and how they lived.

“Based on the artefacts recovered from these test pits we are now able to target specific areas, which we hope will further our knowledge about the people who lived and worked at Verdmont.”

Members of the public are invited to visit the dig, which runs until the end of the month. Anyone wishing to volunteer can contact the National Trust on 236-6483 or palmetto@bnt.bm. Daily updates on the dig will be posted at www.verdmontarchaeology.blogspot.com.