A small number of artifacts appear to post-date the early 18th century assemblage and thus are considered intrusive. Their introduction and presence likely occurred during periods of inlet migration and intense storm driven currents when the shipwreck site was open to the elements due to scouring (McNinch 2007). The same process that removed sediment from the site also mobilized cultural debris. This waterborne debris, which might have been refuse from vessel but just as likely washed from shore during storms, came to rest at 31CR314 because its exposed elements created a catchments area. Modern sand fence and a golf ball represent this process during recent exposure, while cultural material dating to earlier periods may indicate when the shipwreck was naturally uncovered some years after its loss. Another class of artifacts, fishing gear has been collected from the site and indicates periods of exposed wreckage that was substantial enough to encourage finfish congregation and subsequent human interest. All gear related to fishing is very recent in origin coinciding with exposure during the last several decades.

 


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