SIDNEY, Neb. — A routine renovation project at a historic office building in downtown Sidney uncovered an unexpected piece of the past, briefly halting construction and prompting an investigation.

Jessica McKay and her crew were updating the century-old building when the surprising find was made during plumbing work.

“So we were installing some new water lines up into the back addition that's on the building. So we had to drill at an angle through the concrete foundation to get to the access points down below. And, they were drilling and all of the sudden they started pulling bone out,” McKay said.

Alongside the bones, workers found fragments of a liquor bottle, glass shards, metal pieces, and other debris, collectively referred to as “junk.”

The discovery raised immediate concerns, and authorities were called to the scene. The area was temporarily treated as a crime scene until experts could identify the nature of the bones.

“At first, we weren’t sure if the bones were animal or human, so the site was cordoned off,” McKay explained. “But then I learned that back in that era, they actually used animals, and trash basically, so basically glass, metal, as filler in the concrete.”

Historical research revealed that it was common practice during the early 20th century to incorporate various materials—including animal bones and discarded items—into concrete mixes as fillers. This method reduced the amount of concrete needed and made use of waste materials, a practice now considered unusual but practical at the time.

Further examination confirmed the bones were animal, not human, alleviating concerns and allowing work to resume.

“Now that we’ve solved the mystery, the crew is back on schedule,” McKay said.

The find offers a rare glimpse into historic building practices and highlights how renovation projects can unexpectedly uncover stories buried in the fabric of old structures. The building itself, standing for more than 100 years, continues to be a testament to Sidney’s history and resilience.

Local historians expressed interest in the discovery, noting it as a valuable artifact that connects the present with Sidney’s past.

Originally reported by Forrest Hershberger in News Channel Nebraska.