Emily Chan
The peat prevents any bacteria from reaching the remains and causing them to deteriorate. Once the bodies are excavated and exposed to sunlight and air, they start decomposing at rapid rates.
This made it particularly challenging for archaeologists to dig out the artifacts. It was crucial for the peat to stay moist to protect the bodies from decomposition, but they also needed to remove enough water to perform the excavation.
So, they developed a demucking system and installed 158 well points around the pond’s edge to move some water away from the site.
They also used wooden tools to slowly and carefully scrape away at the peat that was stuck to the bones.
Sharpened shovels and trowels were used, but wooden chopsticks from nearby Chinese restaurants were what worked best for the job.
Such an archaeological wonder has allowed archaeologists to learn more about prehistoric burial practices and lifestyles.
There are almost certainly other similar bogs containing bodies in Florida, but whether a find the size of Windover will ever occur again remains to be seen.
