The linear garden beds in the western end of the Upper Garden.

In June 2009, archaeologists returned to the Upper Garden for another season of excavation. The excavation this summer will be smaller than the extensive work undertaken in 2008. It is specifically targeted to answer several questions posed from the results of last year's work.

Archaeologists will initially focus upon exposing more of the linear beds found in western end of the garden and test the grassy northwest quadrant of the garden where fruit trees are currently planted. Additional excavations will explore the intersection of the main garden path with the central courtyard, seek c. 1799 soils in the southeast quadrant of the garden and document the extent of a series of linear beds discovered in 2006.

Archaeological and historical work in the Upper Garden began in 2005. This research is helping understand what the garden looked like during George Washington's life as well as document the many changes which have taken place since 1762 when this area was first cultivated. Ultimately the archaeological discoveries – of planting holes, garden beds and pathways – will provide evidence for a restoration planned for the Upper Garden in the autumn of 2010.