Archaeological Monitoring of Site 28BU1041 During Construction of the Vertical Skills Instruction Facility Building at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in Burlington County, New Jersey

Abstract

On behalf of the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Louis District completed a program of archaeological monitoring with the area of potential effects (APE) for the construction of the Vertical Skills Instruction Facility (VSIF) in the Dix area at JB MDL, New Hanover Township, Burlington County. A professionally qualified archaeologist monitored heavy equipment excavation within and adjacent to an inadvertent archaeological discovery, the Field Site 1 (28BU1041). This study was completed in accordance with Section 106 of NHPA and NJHPO guidelines for archaeological survey. Completed between April 6 and 13, 2026, field investigations included documentation of a brick-lined well and a brick and concrete rubble feature, archaeological monitoring of heavy equipment excavation for VSIF foundations and piers, and photographic documentation of work in progress within the APE. Site 28BU1041 represents a mid-nineteenth to early 20th century farmstead demolished as part of the development of Fort Dix in the mid-20th century and was recommended not eligible for NRHP listing.