A ship excavated at the site of a new hotel in Alexandria, Virginia, is one of 10 artifacts in the state that is vying for a conservation grant. However, the state is letting residents decide which artifacts get the grants.
The Virginia Association of Museums is holding an online vote featuring different pieces of history throughout the state. The two institutions that received the most votes will receive awards of $5,000 and $4,000 respectively to help conserve their artifacts.
The 18th century ship was found at the site of the new Hotel Indigo in Old Town Alexandria. It is the only archaeological artifact among the 10, and it is the oldest and largest piece in the vote.
“This artifact is our most compelling piece of Alexandria’s rich maritime history,” said acting city archaeologist Eleanor Breen. “Its conservation is vital for telling the story of this place.”
Other pieces include a poll booth from Prince William County, an order from D-Day that was saved by a Virginia soldier who received it on that fateful day in 1944, and a driver’s permit from 1904 for the first woman licensed to operate an electric car.
Voting will end at midnight on Jan. 24. The People’s Choice Awards will be announced on Feb. 6.
