The City Council approves an archaeological dig to examine mysterious stone formations that might shed light on the origin of the Newport Tower.

01:00 AM EDT on Friday, July 14, 2006

BY RICHARD SALIT
Journal Staff Writer

NEWPORT -- A researcher has won the city's permission for an archaeological dig in Touro Park that could help explain the origin of the enigmatic Newport Tower.

The City Council has approved plans for Chronognostic Research Foundation Inc., of Tempe, Ariz., to excavate certain sections of the park where ground-penetrating radar and other noninvasive techniques have detected mysterious stone formations.

Chronognostic president Janet Barstad first came to the council with her proposal nearly two years ago, but she finally won the council's blessing Wednesday night. She has permission to begin digging in the park Oct. 15, after the Columbus Day festivities are celebrated there, and her archaelogical team may continue its work for up to 30 days.

The origins of the stone tower have been studied and debated for many years. Some theorize it was a windmill built in Colonial times for Gov. Benedict Arnold, while others speculate it was built by Norsemen who explored the New World before Columbus.

Chronognostic's studies indicate that four underground stone formations close to the tower appear man-made and may offer insights into the history of the tower and the park, according to Barstad. The formations are only several feet under ground and could be evaluated by excavating a limited number of cubic-meter-sized holes in four distinct areas of the park, Barstad says.

Before the council would approve the dig, it had the city administration draft an agreement Chronognostic must sign.

The agreement requires Chronognostic to have the city's tree warden reviews its plotted excavation plans; fill any area that has been dug up to the satisfaction of the city and its appointed landscaper; and obtain liability insurance for $1 million. The agreement also spells out other conditions, including a requirement for fencing around excavation.

Barstad says that the dig will be beneficial to local students as well as college students from out of town, who are expected to observe it.

Any artifacts that are dug up will remain the property of the city, the two sides have agreed. The state Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission would oversee any additional excavation that might be necessary if any artifiacts are found.

rsalitATprojo.com / (401) 277-7467