October 1999
31CR314 Preliminary Field Summary*

During the two-week project, researchers were able to work at the shipwreck site on 11 days. While a BBC film crew documented the expedition for Discovery TV, videographer Rick Allen recorded the archaeological activities and the condition of the site.

Some of the highlights of field activities and preliminary laboratory analysis of recovered artifacts were as follows:

1. Assessment of the site showed extensive damage from hurricane Floyd, including scouring three feet deep in the northern and western areas of the site. Sandbags that had been placed on the wooden hull were picked up and thrown several feet and the hull itself was sitting largely on a pedestal of sand. Cannon C13 was exposed and there were small artifacts seen rolling around on the ocean floor. Fortunately, most of the baseline and reference stakes were intact so it was possible to re-establish those lines. [See Site Map]
2. The magnetic gradiometer survey was completed. Geophysical consultant Jason Prosser was on hand to help with processing and interpretation of the data. The gradiometer picked up what appeared to be a magnetic target representing at least one more large cannon. This was confirmed during exploratory excavations as cannon C20. Several smaller anomalies were detected that may be small cannons but have yet to be documented. The findings will be processed on a contouring program (see 1999 Gradiometer Map).
3. The current meter stand was removed after a year and a half of recording current and wave data at the site. Two feet of sand had built up the area since it was installed. Some of the sand moved from the site by the hurricane may have been transported to this area. Excavation equipment was tested on the moorings to uncover the chain and at the current meter site to recover the stand.
4. Two anomaly targets discovered by Intersal were investigated. One of the targets proved to be a 20^th century iron ball buoy with a chain. The other target, though it appeared to be relevant to the excavation at first, turned out to be an iron stock anchor that did not come into use until the 19^th century.
5. Recovery of the 8½-foot hull plank was successful. After being moved from its original location to an underwater box, it was brought to the surface. The plank will be analyzed and may provide researchers with much to study. For instance, since the wood retains growth rings, it may provide information on the age of the vessel.
6. Researchers recovered a ballast cluster which quickly became known as Baby Ruth. This proved to be an extremely exciting find that contained not one but two cannons (C19 and C21). A date of 1713 was found on C19 that puts it in the correct time period for the QAR. It has a maker's mark that indicates that it was cast at a Swedish gun foundry in the late 17^th or early 18^th century. C21 is a smaller cannon that may be a swivel gun that was mounted on the side of the boat. A “P” stamped on C21’s breech identified it as English in origin.
7. Smaller concretions were brought up and x-rayed by the Marines from the Cherry Point EOD unit. A pewter platter was also recovered which brings the count of plates and platters to ten. Also found were a number of pig and cow bones, providing some of our first good data about foodstuffs aboard the ship. Several large ballast stones were also recovered in hopes that they are some of the original stones that were put on the ship when it was built.
8. The warning buoy was put back into place and the radar security system was tested and re-armed.

The October 1999 expedition was deemed a success. Not only were all the objectives met, there were a few surprises in store for the participants, especially the discovery of the three cannons (C19-21). This brings the total number of guns discovered on the site to 21 and all but eliminates the possibility of this being a ship other than the Queen Anne's Revenge.

* Compiled with assistance from Lynn Reedy, Intern -Meredith College