Ohio Overfield Tavern fire unearths early American history

Archaeologists in Ohio are uncovering hidden pieces of early American history beneath the charred floorboards of a historic tavern.

The excavation is part of recovery efforts at the Overfield Tavern in Troy, about 20 miles north of Dayton.

In recent weeks, excavators from Ohio Valley Archaeology Inc. have been digging beneath the museum, which is the oldest building in the city.

The structure was built in 1808 and served as a courthouse until 1811, when it was converted to a tavern. It’s been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1976.

A devastating fire in the early hours of Dec. 7, 2024, gutted the interior of the museum, though the original 1808 log walls remained mostly intact, according to the museum’s website.

The fire was later ruled accidental by state fire