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July 22, 2021: Shipwreck

In this image, the numbers “2109” are visible along the trailing edge of the shipwreck's rudder. The pattern of nails securing the copper sheathing is plainly visible.

Image courtesy of NOAA Ocean Exploration. Download larger version (jpg, 1.6 MB).

On May 12, 2019, we set sail on NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer for a 13-day shakedown and sea-trial expedition in the Gulf of Mexico. On May 16, while conducting an "engineering dive" to test new remotely operated vehicle equipment, the team made an unexpected — and exciting — discovery: the wreck of what is likely a mid-19th century wooden sailing vessel.

In this image, the numbers “2109” are visible along the trailing edge of the shipwreck's rudder. The pattern of nails securing the copper sheathing is plainly visible.

From: NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer: Shakedown and Sea Trials 2019: An Unexpected Shipwreck Discovery.