Video: Archaeological finds reveal British influence in St Augustine in the 18th century
Andrea White, an urban archaeologist in St. Augustine, Florida, shared with Fox News Digital details of her study of 18th-century British fortifications uncovered during excavations in the state.
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While fishing with his grandson, a Florida man accidentally discovered a sunken ship that he estimates could be up to 150 years old.
Thomas Peterson, a self-described “Florida hick,” told FOX 13 Tampa Bay that he has found a connection to a character who was likely a rumrunner in the 19th century.
The shipwreck was found near Aripeca, a small settlement about 80 kilometers north of Tampa. The discovery occurred during low tide.
“I looked down and noticed something green on the bottom… like a velvety coating,” Peterson described his impressions.
“The locals say it's just an old pier,” he continued. “But I'm sure it's a ship. It's amazing that I was lucky enough to touch history.”
Right: Thomas Peterson, who found the wreckage while fishing with his grandson in Aripeca, Fla. (Photo: Thomas Peterson; FOX 13 Tampa Bay)
The photographs show wooden structural elements almost hidden in the muddy ground of the coastal zone. Parallel beams protruding from the water indicate the outline of the ship's hull.
“ My grandson and I have been fishing here for a decade,” Peterson said. “This is where he caught his first trophy bass.”
A Hernando County native speculates that the ship may have been used to smuggle alcohol or was a rum-running vessel.
Among the finds, a fragment of purple glass stands out, possibly from a bottle of alcoholic drink.
Peterson called the discovery “incredible,” saying he believes he has solved the mystery of Florida's waters. (Photo: Thomas Peterson, FOX 13 Tampa Bay)
He also suggested that the ship was built before Prohibition, leaving the question of its true purpose open.
According to FOX 13, archaeological experts are conducting research to determine the age and history of the ship, after which the find will be transferred to state control.
A purple glass fragment found near the wreckage could have come from an alcoholic beverage from centuries past. (Photo: Thomas Peterson, FOX 13 Tampa Bay)
According to Florida Statute 267.14, archaeological sites are protected by the state and only accredited professionals are allowed to work on them.
Discovering sunken ships is a common but always exciting event, especially in regions with a rich maritime history.
“They told me it was just a dock. I said it was a boat,” Peterson said. (Photo: Thomas Peterson, FOX 13 Tampa Bay)
Earlier this year, four 18th-century ships were discovered off the coast of North Carolina in the Cape Fear region.
In April, Spanish archaeologists found the remains of an ancient ship under the building of a former fish market.
Sourse: www.foxnews.com
