Site History

Historical research into the Saunders Point site on the South River in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, has been limited since no formal report has been written. Since its excavation in 1968, the site has been attributed to the 18th century occupation of the prominent Saunders family. Records show that Robert Saunders lived in the area and was a member of the social group known as the South River Club by at least 1742. He may be a descendant or relative of John Saunders, part owner of the Dove when it made its first voyage to Maryland in 1633.

Archaeology

Excavations at Saunders Point took place in 1968 when private owners discovered a cellar feature where they intended to put a pool. Archaeologist Stephen Israel assisted with the excavation of the cellar and prepared a summary report that is on file with the site form at the Maryland Historical Trust. Archaeologist George Miller later conducted a ceramic vessel analysis. The cellar was approximately 15’ by 18’, and was 3’ deep. Artifacts date the site to the mid 18th century.

References

See site form on file at the Maryland Historical Trust. Artifacts and associated records are at the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory.

The Saunders Point archaeological collection is owned by the Maryland Historical Trust and curated at the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory.