Chris Merritt discovers intact walls of historic Ordnance Storehouse at Stillwell Field

Excavation efforts at Fort Douglas have unearthed significant historical findings, as Utah State Historic Preservation Officer Chris Merritt announced the discovery of the Ordnance Storehouse walls during a recent excavation. The team, working at Stillwell Field, has successfully located the north and west walls of the structure, providing valuable insights into its construction.

Merritt highlighted that the north wall, although mostly in rubble, is identifiable due to the concentration of sandstone rubble and remnants of mortar, which has left a distinct white stain in the soil. This finding is crucial for archaeologists, as it marks a clear deviation from the native soil, indicating the presence of human-made structures.

The south wall, however, has suffered significant damage, likely due to leveling efforts on the parade ground, which resulted in much of it being pushed over. In contrast, the west wall remains remarkably intact, offering a glimpse into the building techniques of the time, particularly the use of large red butte sandstone sourced from the nearby area.

These discoveries not only enhance our understanding of Fort Douglas's historical architecture but also underscore the importance of preserving such sites for future generations. As the excavation continues, further findings are anticipated, promising to shed more light on this significant piece of Utah's history.