In a remarkable archaeological discovery, remnants of a 17th-century shipwreck have emerged on a beach in Dorset, following the recent upheaval caused by Storm Chandra. The exposed timbers were found on 28 January at Studland Bay, a site managed by the National Trust, and are believed to be linked to the Swash Channel wreck, first identified in the 1990s.
A Link to the Past
Experts from Bournemouth University have posited that the wreckage likely belongs to the Fame from Hoorn, a Dutch merchant ship that met its fate after running aground in 1631. The section of the vessel uncovered measures around 6 metres (approximately 19.6 feet) in length and 2 metres (6.5 feet) in width. Notably, the interior of the ship shows a significant absence of planking, suggesting these remains have remained buried in sand for nearly 400 years.
Tracey Churcher, the National Trust’s general manager for Purbeck, expressed her excitement at the find, stating, “I’m always astounded by the history we find at Studland but this has been a real treasure. The wooden tree nails are still in place and holding after 400 years. What a testament to the craftsmanship at the time.”
Investigative Efforts Underway
To confirm the origins of the wreck, researchers plan to conduct dendrochronology tests. This method will provide insights into when and where the timbers used in the ship’s construction were sourced, and whether they correspond with samples previously examined from the Swash Channel wreck. The team at Bournemouth University has also sought funding from Historic England for the excavation, operating under the assumption that these timbers are part of a legally protected wreck site.
Hefin Meara, a maritime archaeologist with Historic England, noted the significance of the Swash Channel wreck, which is one of only 57 shipwrecks along the English coast designated under the Protection of Wrecks Act 1973. He remarked, “Firmly dated remains of vessels predating 1700 are exceptionally rare. We can’t say for certain that these fragments come from that wreck site, but it’s an intriguing possibility.”
Legal Protections and Future Plans
The legal protections surrounding such wrecks mean that any interference or disturbance must be sanctioned by an official licence. As the excavation plans develop, the National Trust has urged the public to respect the site by refraining from touching the exposed timbers. The hope is that these artefacts will eventually be incorporated into the collection at Poole Museum, providing further insights into maritime history.
The Fame from Hoorn was an impressive vessel, measuring around 40 metres (131.2 feet) in length and capable of carrying more than 40 guns. It played a vital role in defending its crew against pirates during voyages to the Caribbean. Historical records indicate that all 45 crew members safely abandoned the ship when it ran aground, although the wreck was subsequently looted.
Why it Matters
The discovery of these shipwreck timbers is not just a remarkable glimpse into maritime history; it underscores the importance of preserving our historical artefacts for future generations. Each piece of the past offers invaluable insights into the lives and craftsmanship of those who came before us. As archaeological efforts advance, the hope is that these remnants will enrich our understanding of 17th-century seafaring and contribute to the cultural heritage of the region.
