Uncovering the Rich History of Brooklyn, Illinois through Archaeology
In the heart of Brooklyn, Illinois, a team of dedicated archaeologists has been hard at work unearthing artifacts that tell the story of this historic town’s founding families. Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, Brooklyn is not only the oldest but also one of the few surviving majority-Black incorporated towns in the United States. Founded in 1873, the town has a rich heritage dating back to the arrival of its pioneering families about half a century earlier.
The goal of the archaeologists is to uncover evidence of the Black settlers who played a vital role in shaping Brooklyn’s history. By doing so, they hope to secure a spot for the town on the National Register of Historical Places. This federal designation would not only attract tourists but also boost civic pride and potentially spark a renaissance for the town’s approximately 650 residents.
Brooklyn Mayor Vera Banks expressed her excitement about the ongoing archaeological dig, stating, “We have a lot of rich history already. That would add another lit candle.” The team of archaeologists from the Illinois State Archaeological Survey started their excavation by digging a large hole in a residential neighborhood owned by Roberta Rogers, the leader of Brooklyn’s historical society. Their efforts expanded to a second site near a school, where they are searching for evidence of the town’s original cemetery.
Uncovering the Town’s Underground Railroad Connection
One of the most intriguing aspects of Brooklyn’s history is its connection to the Underground Railroad. “Mother” Priscilla Baltimore, the town’s founding matriarch, used the Quinn Chapel AME Church as a stop on the Underground Railroad, providing refuge for enslaved individuals seeking freedom. Brooklyn was envisioned as a freedom village where those in search of liberty could find solace amidst the turmoil of the Civil War era.
Despite its illustrious past, Brooklyn has faced challenges in recent years, with vacant plots now dotting its streets where thriving businesses once stood. Mayor Banks reminisced about a time when the town boasted multiple grocery stores, pharmacies, and a theater. Today, the landscape is marked by overgrown brush obscuring views of landmarks like the Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge and the Gateway Arch.
Preserving Brooklyn’s Legacy for Future Generations
The University of Illinois’s archaeological team has been instrumental in unearthing artifacts that shed light on Brooklyn’s early days. By uncovering bits of brightly colored pottery and other remnants from the 1830s, they are piecing together the town’s intricate history. These findings not only contribute to the National Register nomination process but also serve as a testament to the resilience and spirit of Brooklyn’s people.
Mayor Banks is optimistic about the town’s future, envisioning a comprehensive plan to revitalize Brooklyn in the coming years. With the centennial celebration of Route 66 fast approaching, she sees an opportunity to tie in a town revitalization effort with this historic event. As she aptly puts it, “There’s no place like Brooklyn.”
In conclusion, the ongoing archaeological dig in Brooklyn, Illinois, is not just about unearthing artifacts but about preserving a legacy for future generations. By delving into the town’s rich history and uncovering its hidden stories, the archaeologists are breathing new life into a community that has withstood the test of time. Brooklyn’s past is a tapestry of resilience, courage, and hope, and it is through projects like this that we can ensure its legacy endures for years to come.