Exploring Molasses Reef: A Cultural Landscape Analysis

Summary

This is an abstract from the session entitled "Recent Development of Maritime and Historical Archaeology Programs in South Florida" , at the 2020 annual meeting of the Society for Historical Archaeology.

Molasses Reef, located within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, has been home to numerous groundings and wrecks over the last few centuries. The majority of previous research has focused on the shipwreck Slobodna, attributing much of the presently remaining wreckage to this vessel. This paper will examine a wider cultural landscape delving into the wreckage seen presently and its varying origins in time and space, how trade patterns due to the proximity of the Gulf Stream, major shipping port in Key West, and economic factors throughout the Florida Keys were and continue to be embodied at Molasses Reef, and the disputed origin of the name, Molasses Reef. The ongoing use of this area, both recreational and scientific, obviates the need for a further understanding of these resources and their value as maritime heritage sites.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Recent Development of Maritime and Historical Archaeology Programs in South Florida   •
• Society for Historical Archaeology 2020

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Individual & Institutional Roles

Contact(s): Society for Historical Archaeology

Record Identifiers

PaperId(s): 763