Smithsonian Institution scientists examine the remains of a teenager from the 19th century: Smithsonian forensic anthropologist Dr. Doug Owsley, pathologist Dr. Arthur Aufterheide, pathologist Dr. Larry Cartmell, Smithsonian volunteer Marta Camps, pathologist Mary Aufterheide. Image Courtesy Ken Rahaim, Smithsonian Institution.The body of a 15-year old boy discovered by utility workers in Washington DC two years ago has been identified by scientists at the Smithsonian.

William Taylor White died in 1852 and was buried in Columbia College cemetery, and the coffin was probably left behind by mistake when the cemetery was moved. (Moving a cemetery would be interesting/horrifying/nightmare inducing/challenging.)

The body can now be placed in a properly marked grave.