Archaeologists Examine Possible Graves Near Governor’s Residence

Archaeologists begin work today to investigate possible historic graves near the North Dakota governor’s residence.

Construction crews discovered human remains and coffin fragments in May while working on a new security fence and driveway.

Ground-penetrating radar later identified as many as 29 anomalies. State officials caution that some may be tree roots, sewer lines or other utilities rather than burial sites.

The grounds were once part of one of Bismarck’s oldest cemeteries, dating to the late 1800s. It remains unclear how many burials were relocated when newer cemeteries opened.

An archaeologist will examine each site. Any remains recovered will be handled by a funeral home and reinterred in a Bismarck cemetery. Officials say no D-N-A testing is planned.