The trigger guard, flashpan, chain, barrel strap and buttplate in the top photograph are from the same firearm, possibly a blunderbuss dating between 1690 and 1750. We know this because the diver accidentally broke off the barrel while trying to pry the weapon out from where it was wedged beneath a cannon. The spikes in the second photo are copper, bronze and brass, the small nail fits in a pseudomorph of the original wood. The two lower photos are the first Polaroids taken of the artifacts with a ruler placed to indicate scale.
We believe that the ship is most likely a military or mercantile vessel.
We are in the process of assembling a team to investigate the site properly using the latest side-scan and photogrammetric techniques.
A serious effort is underway to learn as much as we can about the most appropriate way to undertake this archeological project responsibly, including contacting the Honduran government and obtaining the necessary permission to study the site.
April 27 update:
Two divers have returned from Honduras with more artifacts including: brass sword hilts, a barrel spigot, buckles, numerous musket parts, a small brass piece with characters "IcN 22" (the "c" is in superscript) and other various and sundry items. These are shown in the photographs below.
The divers told me that there are 30 cannon, scores of guns and swords, five anchors and that they know where the holds are on the wreck, which is approximately 300 feet long. The wreck is in 14-17 feet of water.
Much to my chagrin, they did not follow the procedures that John Maseman, conservator archeologist recommended by Dr. William Murray, had outlined when we approached him for advice. However, the principals have been issued the necessary permits by the Honduran government. Although they are afraid to involve professionals in the archeological investigation, they are proceeding with government sanction. If they decide to allow further study, I will notify the archeological community on NAUTARCH
Thank you for your support. I am only interested in responsible excavation of this early 18th century military vessel and preserving valuable artifacts. I also think it would be incredibly exciting as a sport diver.
Please contact me via the e-mail link on my home page if you wish to share any insight or are able to participate in any way. Thank you for your interest.
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