Copper-Clad Ghost: The "Monterrey A Shipwreck"

Summary

Archaeological assessment and limited test excavation of the Monterrey A shipwreck provides an initial characterization of an early 19th century armed vessel whose remains are comprised of articulated two-dimensional features as well as a substantial portion of seemingly well-preserved three dimensional hull remains of the copper-sheathed hull.  The form and lines of the hull are present, and with the various features, suggest that this armed vessel of approximately 200 tons was a two-masted craft, likely a schooner.  Similar to Baltimore-built schooners and brigs of the early 19th century, the vessel's identity and home port remain unknown.  Site characteristics and artifacts such as the navigational instruments suggest a sudden loss, probably in a violent storm, and with no survivors.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• The Monterrey Shipwreck Project: Three Early 19th Century Wrecks In The Northern Gulf Of Mexico.   •
• Society for Historical Archaeology 2015

Keywords

Spatial Coverage

Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology

Record Identifiers

PaperId(s): 249