PORTSMOUTH, N.H. (AP) – Archaeologists have found the remains of five bodies in Portsmouth, N.H., which they believe are part of an 18th century African burial ground.

Wooden coffins, bone fragments and a human skull were discovered on Thursday shortly after workers began construction on a memorial marking the site. In 2003, 13 coffins were discovered during a road excavation project. Experts determined the remains were part of a “Negro Burying Ground” shown on a 1705 city map and plans were made to build a park on the site as a memorial.

This new discovery could put those plans on hold until a decision is made whether to disinter the bodies for study or to leave them buried. Archaeologists believe there could be up to 200 people buried there.

—

Information from: Portsmouth Herald, http://www.seacoastonline.com

AP-ES-11-14-08 1741EST