Is this a dry well? Is it worth excavating?

[Bramblefind]

I found this feature at my parents' house. It is in their front yard on a slope and in line with the kitchen. Their house dates from 1820s or so but I expect this was added maybe 1930s -ish (?).

Is it a dry well?

It is a metal barrel with broken terra cotta pieces. It had been covered by a large flat stone. I have only uncovered not even 1/2 of the barrel lip. Not sure if I want to keep going - would you dig on?

 

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[Shortstack]

Possibly a "gray water" sump to catch and strain out greasy waste water from the kitchen to keep it out of the water table.

 

[Bramblefind]

Possibly a "gray water" sump to catch and strain out greasy waste water from the kitchen to keep it out of the water table.

That sounds very possible. I don't think I am going to dig it out

 

[jgas]

Yea those terra cotta pieces would have me changing my mind about that dig. Especially in the front yard. jgas

 

[Goodyguy]

I suggest at least see what is inside the barrel before covering it up.
You have already gone that far, would be a shame to pass up a possible cache.

GG~

 

[River Rat]

I had a similar dig a few years back...turned out that barrel was a carbide generator.

http://forum.treasurenet.com/index.php?topic=86841.msg618245#msg618245

RR