Geophysical Investigations at Two Residences Associated with Ulysses S. Grant in St. Louis County, Missouri

Summary

The project consisted of geophysical investigations at the Hardscrabble residence (23SL1223) at the cemetery on St. Paul Churchyard and the Wish-ton-wish residence (23SL1222) on Anheuser-Busch’s Grant’s Farm. At Hardscrabble, the geophysical investigations included magnetic gradient, conductivity, and ground-penetrating radar surveys. A total area of 6,400 square meters was investigated including 4,800 square meters with fluxgate gradiometer, 2,000 square meters with a ground conductivity meter, and 400 square meters with a ground-penetrating radar cart system with a 400 mHz antenna. The results of the magnetic gradient survey indicated a roughly triangular area in the open grassy lawn adjacent to Rock Hill Road. Within the triangular area of magnetic anomalies, a rectangular depression was noted in one of the grid units, which may have been the location of the log cabin built by Ulysses S. Grant. Conductivity and radar data provided additional information on the nature of selected portions of the site.

Wish-ton-wish was located in the ostrich and aoudad pens on Grant’s Farm. At Wish-ton-Wish, the geophysical investigations included resistance and ground-penetrating radar surveys. A total of 1,625 square meters was examined with the resistance system using a twin probe array and a ground penetrating radar cart system with a 400 mHz antenna. The remains of the stone foundation of the residence were clearly visible in both data sets along with a well which may be associated with the residence. Although some foundation stones were visible on the surface, the geophysical data also suggested the location of the attached porches to the residence. In addition, both data sets indicated the presence of a lane around the residence foundation and a possible out building associated with the residence.

Based on the evaluation of the geophysical data collected at both sites, it is recommended that both sites be considered eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Midwest Archeological Center Technical Reports

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