The Provincial Archaeological team has returned from surveying the shipwreck in Cape Ray, and are now ready to disclose some of their initial findings.

Provincial Archaeologist Jamie Brake was among the team of experts who investigated the wreckage in Cape Ray over the weekend. The group collected materials including fasteners, copper rods, wooden tree nails, wood samples, metal sheeting, bark samples and more. As well as photos, and drone videos. Initial findings indicate the shipwreck looks consistent with a 19th century vessel.

They don’t have any information to indicate that the ship historically significant at this time, says Brake. He says the Provincial Archaeology Office will not stand in the way of any residents who would like to pull the wreckage on shore. He says it is risky either way, if the wreck is left in the water it could be destroyed, and if it is taken out of the water it could also be harmed.

Brake says the department needs to be very careful about what items they are collecting and preserving, he says the department is not able to save and preserve every shipwreck, or aircraft that is found in communities across Newfoundland and Labrador. But if residents would like to preserve and display the findings on their own, that would be permitted.

Brake says the team will be able to document their findings, and they will move forward to discover more about the age and origin.

Brake says the hospitality of people in Cape Ray while the team was in the area over the weekend was amazing, as residents set up space in the local firehall and provided soup and sandwiches for those braving the weather, and waters while analyzing the shipwreck.