As the nation commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, our Cultural Resources team is reflecting on how infrastructure and preservation work intersect to tell a fuller story of American history.

From pre-contact Indigenous life to colonial governance, African American heritage, and industrial innovation, these projects highlight the depth and breadth of stories embedded in our landscapes.

Expanding Understanding of Pre-Contact History in Ohio

In Erie County, OH, an archaeological survey identified numerous sites and artifacts left by Indigenous populations dating back thousands of years. These discoveries add valuable context to the long and complex history of human occupation in the region.

Preserving Colonial Heritage in New Hampshire

At the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion in Portsmouth, NH, our cultural resources, architecture, and climate resiliency teams assessed existing conditions and developed recommendations to help safeguard this c.1750 National Historic Landmark. Once home to royal governor Benning Wentworth, the property reflects both colonial leadership and later waves of historic preservation, and is open to the public today.

Documenting African American History in Maryland

In Anne Arundel County, MD, an archaeological investigation associated with a utility project revealed artifacts connected to tenant farms and historically African American communities spanning from the antebellum period through the 20th century. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the region’s social and cultural history, where enslaved labor once underpinned the local economy and evolving communities shaped its legacy.

Recognizing Industrial Innovation in Maine

In Millinocket, ME, our work supported the National Register nomination for the Great Northern Paper (GNP) Company’s historic administrative buildings. Established in 1899, GNP rapidly became a global leader in newsprint production and played a central role in shaping both the regional economy and the town itself. Today, these buildings and structures stand as reminders of American industrial ingenuity and community development. Learn more about this project here.

Together, these efforts reflect a shared commitment to preserving the physical traces of our past, ensuring that the stories of diverse communities, industries, and cultures remain part of the national narrative as we look toward the future.

Learn more about our Cultural Resources services here.