Who knew that progress could lead to potty humor? The I-81 reconstruction project in Syracuse has unearthed a historic jackpot—a mid-1800s “outhouse cemetery” filled with remnants of daily life.

Outhouse Cemetery Unearthed Beneath Syracuse Highway Project

Beneath Water Street near Irving Avenue, archaeologists struck gold: 11 outhouse pits, or privies, preserved through the ages. Before indoor plumbing, these structures weren’t just for, well, you know; They also doubled as trash bins for anything from broken pottery to discarded food. Often, when one family moved out and another moved it, the new family would toss all of the previous tenants in the privy as well. All forming a time capsule of daily life from over a century ago.

The discovery included jug handles, plate fragments, and cow bones. And it’s not just about old plates and bones, though. These artifacts paint a picture of how people lived, worked, and ate more than a century ago. Who were they? What did they value? And, most importantly, why was that pocket watch tossed into the pit?

This wasn’t just any spot for an outhouse either. Just a few steps from the Erie Canal, this neighborhood was buzzing in the 1800s. Maps from 1892 show about 35 homes nestled among breweries, banks, and the Zion Church.

Read More: This Historical New York Landmark Turns 200 In 2025

By the mid-20th century, urban renewal policies led to the neighborhood's demolition to make way for the I-81 highway and other infrastructure.

The newly unearthed privies are untouched despite decades of development.

Preservation Amid Progress

The I-81 reconstruction project involves federal funding, requiring archaeological oversight to make sure historic artifacts are documented before construction proceeds. Once the pits are fully excavated, the artifacts will head to the New York State Museum, where they’ll be studied, displayed, and admired by those who love a good historical deep dive.

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8 Of The Most Haunted Bridges In New York State

New York State has several haunted bridges, each with its own ghostly tales and legends. Here are 8 haunted bridges across the Empire State.

Gallery Credit: Dave Wheeler

16 Of New York State's Most Wanted Criminals- January 2025

Below are individuals wanted by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision's (DOCCS) Office of Special Investigations who have been designated as its Most Wanted Fugitives. They should be considered armed and dangerous. This list is current as of 1/01/2025:

NEVER attempt to apprehend a fugitive yourself. If you have information on the location of any of these fugitives, you can contact OSI 24 hours a day / 7 days a week to report it. All leads and tips are treated as confidential information.

If an immediate response is necessary, such as you see the wanted person at a location, please call “911” and report it to the police.

Gallery Credit: Dave Wheeler

The Most Deadly and Dangerous Places in New York

We all know New York has no shortage of stunning natural landscapes and thrilling adventures, but some of those jaw-dropping spots come with a serious warning label. Whether you're a hiker, a road-tripper, or someone looking for a day of exploration, it’s important to stay aware of where things can get dangerous. From waterfalls with unseen ledges to treacherous hiking trails, here’s a roundup of the most dangerous places in New York.


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