A recent dig by archaeologists that uncovered hidden caves and a missing building will be presented to the public on Saturday at an ‘Open Day’ event put on by the Bermuda National Trust (BNT). The Archaeology Committee of the BNT recently made the discovery during a four-week dig at the Verdmont House Museum off Collector’s Hill in Smiths Parish.

Between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. at the museum, archaeologists will be on hand to talk with members of the public about the unearthing as well as the many historic artefacts recovered.

Richard Lowry, Archaeology Committee chairman, said: “We are looking forward to sharing our findings with the community on Saturday as we have made some exciting discoveries.

“During the four-week dig, we located a missing building along the eastern edge of the property containing large deposits of early to mid-18th century artefacts, including pottery, clay pipes and metal work.”

The structure had been built partially into the sloping hillside and nearby postholes suggests an outdoor, fenced enclosure.

One theory is that this was an animal enclosure of some sort — supported by the large number of animal bones found.

Mr. Lowry added: “These findings help us piece together what life was like at historic Verdmont. It helps us learn how the entire household lived hundreds of years ago.” According to scientists, the cave or fissure discovery beneath the old privy also answered the question of why it had been built so far from the house.

Excavation director Brent Fortenberry suggested: “The distance of the privy may have been inconvenient for the household, but it meant they didn’t have to dig a cess pit as they found a naturally occurring one.

“Alongside this finding, however, we have also unearthed a large number of artefacts from the dig and are excited to share what they tell us about everyday Bermudian life, with the community on Saturday.”

For more information, contact the BNT at 236-6483.