Researchers at the University of Mississippi Medical Center say they recovered a rare, fully preserved cast-iron casket dating to the late 1800s during excavation work at the Asylum Hill Cemetery on the Jackson campus.
Officials said the find is unlike anything uncovered since the cemetery project began and offers a powerful window into the lives and stories of those buried there. Cast-iron caskets are associated with the late 19th century and are uncommon in archaeological excavations because of their construction and the passage of time.
The University of Mississippi Medical Center is the state’s academic medical center and has undertaken the Asylum Hill Cemetery excavation to document and preserve historical burials on or near its campus. Researchers involved in the project are studying burial practices, preservation conditions and historical context related to the site.
The discovery may provide historians and archaeologists additional information about local mortuary practices and community history. UMMC published a notice about the find on its website. We will provide more information as it becomes available.
