Project Name: Capitol Complex Archeological Field Investigations

Project Location: Austin, Travis County, Texas

Project Type: Archeological Background Study and Archival Review 

Owner: Texas Facilities Commission (TFC)

Hicks & Company conducted an archeological survey for the Texas Facilities Commission ahead of the Capitol Complex Phase 2 Project, which involves constructing two state office buildings with underground parking and extending the pedestrian mall. The survey, conducted from June 2022 to February 2023, focused on uncovering cultural deposits from 1870 to 1890. Archeologists excavated seventy-seven trenches and nine test units, discovering over 4,000 artifacts, including cisterns, privies, and structural foundations. Most artifacts were glass, metal, organic materials, and ceramics, with only a few dating to the target period. The survey found that Block 39 was primarily occupational, while Block 46 was residential. Despite some remains likely dating to the period of interest, they were mixed with later constructions. The findings indicate no significant archeological properties eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, and no further investigations are recommended.