Native American burial ground unearthed in Branford

Branford, CT (WTNH) - When the fury that was Tropical Storm Irene pounded the Connecticut shoreline, eroding part of an embankment along the Linden Avenue beach in Branford, human remains were unearthed.

State Archaeologists believe the remains are of Native American origin, dating back more than four hundred years.

"They had a lot of encampments along the shoreline with all the development going on for several hundred years one never knows what's in the ground," said Tribal Council Medicine Chief Fox Running.

A traditional Native American internment ceremony was held earlier today before the media was assembled at the site. This was done so that the general public would not know the exact location of this site and the integrity of the site would not be compromised.

"We're happy to see that the remains of our ancestors have been respectfully placed back in the ground so that the creator can watch over them for all eternity," Running said.

Crews today have been working to repair the damaged road and embankment.

"It's gonna end up being protected in the sense that we're protecting the road," said Branford First Selectman Anthony DaRos. "Also what happens is we'll take the extra care to make sure this is secure and secure with huge granite blocks forever."

Members of the Native American community tell News 8 that even though the site is not "sacred" ground, it will always be a place to show their respect.

"It's out of respect and it's also saying we know where you are and a connection for us," said Ed Sarabia of the Native American Council. "We won't say or do anything, we put a pebble down as an acknowledgement of us being here and that the real elders will be there for you as well."