New England's rugged coastline is dotted with the remnants of centuries-old shipwrecks, creating a fascinating playground for beachcombers and history enthusiasts. From colonial-era trading vessels to 19th-century schooners, the Atlantic waves have carried countless artifacts ashore. However, discovering a piece of maritime history comes with responsibility. Proper identification and preservation are crucial, both for your safety and to protect these treasures for future generations.
Here's a detailed guide on how to identify and preserve ancient shipwreck artifacts while beachcombing along the New England coast.
Recognizing Ancient Shipwreck Artifacts
1. Materials and Construction
Shipwreck artifacts can range from wooden planks to metal fittings and ceramic fragments. Key identifiers include:
- Wood: Often weathered, darkened, and sometimes waterlogged. Look for unusual joinery or nail patterns that hint at historical shipbuilding techniques.
- Metal: Iron or bronze fittings, such as nails, anchors, and cannons, may be heavily corroded. Copper or brass items, like decorative fittings, often retain some shine and are more resistant to corrosion.
- Ceramics and Glass: Porcelain, stoneware, or colored glass bottles are common finds. Cracks and discoloration are signs of age.
2. Signs of Marine Exposure
Artifacts from shipwrecks often show telltale signs of prolonged ocean exposure:
- Barnacles and Marine Growth: Tiny crustaceans or algae on metal or wood suggest long-term submersion.
- Rounding and Smoothing: Waves naturally smooth edges, so very polished or rounded pieces could be centuries old.
- Salt Crystallization: White salt deposits can indicate prolonged exposure to seawater.
3. Historical Context
Understanding the history of local shipwrecks can help identify artifacts:
- Local Shipwreck Records: Many New England coastal towns maintain lists of known shipwrecks. Researching these can provide clues about the types of artifacts you might find.
- Time Periods: Knowing the era of common wrecks (e.g., colonial trade, whaling era, or 19th-century schooners) can help differentiate older artifacts from modern debris.
Preserving Shipwreck Artifacts Safely
1. Legal Considerations
Before collecting anything, be aware of state and federal laws:
- Protected Sites: Some shipwrecks are on protected lists, and removing artifacts is illegal without proper authorization.
- Reporting Finds: Significant discoveries, especially those with historical value, may need to be reported to local authorities or historical societies.
- Private vs. Public Beaches: Ensure that you are allowed to collect items legally on the beach you are visiting.
2. Handling Artifacts
Proper handling prevents further deterioration:
- Minimal Contact: Avoid touching fragile wood or rusted metal with bare hands. Oils from skin can accelerate decay.
- Use Tools Carefully: A soft brush, small shovel, or gloved hands are ideal for gently lifting objects.
- Avoid Force: Never pry or dig aggressively around partially buried artifacts; you could damage fragile pieces.
3. Initial Cleaning
Saltwater and sand can be abrasive. Clean artifacts carefully:
- Rinse with Fresh Water: Remove sand and salt gently. Avoid harsh scrubbing.
- Remove Loose Debris: Use a soft brush to clear off sand and marine residue without scratching surfaces.
- Avoid Chemicals: Do not use household cleaners, bleach, or acids, as these can irreversibly damage ancient materials.
4. Long-Term Preservation
Preserving artifacts once they are removed from the beach requires attention to moisture, rust, and wood degradation:
- Wooden Artifacts: Soak in fresh water for several days to leach out salts. Afterward, slowly dry in a shaded, ventilated area. Applying a suitable conservation wax or polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution can stabilize waterlogged wood.
- Metal Artifacts: Remove loose rust, then store in a controlled environment. Electrolytic reduction can be used for iron, while bronze and copper can be treated with corrosion inhibitors.
- Ceramics and Glass: Once cleaned, store in padded containers to prevent chips or cracks. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading of any painted surfaces.
5. Document Your Finds
Recording your discoveries helps both historical research and personal tracking:
- Photograph Each Item: Include scale and location details.
- Note Location and Conditions: Keep a journal of the beach, tide level, and any nearby landmarks.
- Research Provenance: Cross-reference artifacts with known historical records or maritime archives.
Ethical Beachcombing Practices
Responsible artifact collection helps protect maritime history:
- Leave Significant Finds for Experts: Rare or fragile items should be reported rather than removed.
- Avoid Disturbing the Environment: Minimize digging and preserve natural habitats along the shore.
- Educate Others: Share knowledge about proper preservation techniques to encourage ethical beachcombing.
Conclusion
Beachcombing along New England's shores offers a window into centuries of maritime history. By learning to identify ancient shipwreck artifacts and following careful preservation methods, you can enjoy the thrill of discovery while respecting the past. With patience, research, and a responsible approach, every find becomes a piece of history saved for generations to come.