Dear Histarch List, This query on Metafilter seems perfect for the histarch list: "While digging out the backyard of our Philly rowhome to lay a patio, I came across a brick-lined pit with a pipe in it (pictures here and here). What is it?" http://ask.metafilter.com/91380/What-is-this-hole-in-my-backyard Picture links: http://www.flickr.com/photos/zempf/2492493640/in/photostream/ http://www.flickr.com/photos/zempf/2491674973/in/photostream/ Apart from the obvious admonitions about conducting exploratory excavations in the backyard, I'm sure this fellow would love some expert opinions on the feature! Stacy Kozakavich Berkeley, CA