Black Bank, Bay St. George

During the summer of 2006, the Provincial Archaeology Office learned of a partial shipwreck that had washed ashore on the beach in Black Bank Park.

Black Bank, Bay St. George

Locals in the area believed the wreck was possibly from one of two Basque ships that are recorded to have wrecked in the area early in the 16th century.

Black Bank, Bay St. George

After receiving further information about the wreck, including mapping and recording, wood analysis of portions of the wreck and consultation with the Underwater Archaeology Service, Parks Canada regarding construction of the ship, it was determined that the vessel was probably that of a 19th century or early 20th century origin.

Close-up of a wooden trenail used to hold the ship together.

Black Bank, Bay St. George

Close-up of a copper peg, the function is not known.

Black Bank, Bay St. George

Close-up of some of the manufacturing cut marks.

Black Bank, Bay St. George

In the fall, the PAO decided that the best course of action to take in order to protect and preserve the wreckage was to bury it on the beach in close proximity to where it was found.

Black Bank, Bay St. George

The re-burial was carried out in November and was monitored by the PAO.