Daily life for Sheridan Hollow’s 19th-century occupants was undoubtedly difficult. Despite this, basic needs of food, clothing and shelter were met. Food remains indicate a varied diet.

Male residents mostly worked as unskilled laborers, whose unemployment typically ranged from 10 to 20 percent. Women were primarily at home. A few worked as domestic servants or laundresses.

From 1850 to 1900 the children attended school at a rate equal to the national average at the time. The 35 percent of children who did not attend school probably worked. A few artifacts associated with children were found in the privy vaults. These included marbles, ceramic dolls, a miniature teacup, a writing slate, and a carbon rod.

This piece of school slate was found outside the foundation of 114 Sheridan Avenue.

The most common type of toys found were ceramic, glass, and stone marbles.

Archaeologists study soil samples from privy vaults to learn about health and diet.