University Of Virginia Renovations Reveal Thomas Jefferson Era Chemical Lab

A chemical lab dating from President Thomas Jefferson's time has been unearthed during renovations at the University of Virginia.

The university's famous Rotunda Building concealed a chemical hearth since it was sealed off in the 1850s. Excavations three decades ago did not bring forth the hearth but its two fireboxes were discovered. The newly discovered hearth will be put on permanent display at the building which is undergoing renovations slated for completion next spring, UPI reports.

The hearth is said to have been built for John Emmet, the renowned academic and teacher Jefferson had hired. Five workstations cut to stone countertops and work benches were also discovered. The two fireboxes discovered earlier would provide differing degrees of heat for various experiments.

"The hearth is significant as something of the University's early academic years. The original arch above the opening will have to be reconstructed, but we hope to present the remainder of the hearth as essentially unrestored, preserving its evidence of use," said Mark Kutney, an architectural conservator in the University Architect's office in a news release.

The chemical laboratory facilities in the building were said to be similar to a chemical laboratory that was run by Emmet's mentor William J. MacNeven in the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City. Jefferson had founded the university.