England’s Cambridge University was undergoing some remodeling when something unexpected was discovered. A construction crew knocked down drywall and found a small alcove that contained a vintage cast-iron stove.
The archeology department was immediately notified to investigate.
The alcove, which was called a “gyp,” was used by university staff to cook breakfast and brew tea for the student body.
In addition to the well-preserved stove, the crew found a large assortment of letters, postcards and cigarette cards dated from 1912 to 1916. The archivists who read them said they provided a great deal of information about campus life in the early 20th century.
It is thought that stove was walled up when the breakfast custom was dropped around 1920. The school decided to place the stove, postcards and letters on display in the chapel so current students can learn more about the university.
A permanent display area is planned for the near future.
The discovery has created excitement both on campus and on the internet with photos of the find posted on numerous websites.
The letters and postcards contained several names of dorm students at that time that are currently being traced by archivists in the hope of finding descendants.
