A mysterious shipwreck has been discovered on the shores of Newfoundland, Canada after centuries since its sinking, leaving experts and locals puzzled by its sudden appearance. The 80-foot vessel was believed to have been dredged up by post-tropical storm Fiona and was spotted by residents of Cape Ray, a small coastal town. The unexpected discovery has caused a buzz among the community, with people eager to learn more about the ship and its origins.
According to reports, Gordon Blackmore, 21, was on a bird-hunting trip when he noticed a dark shadow in the waters. Upon closer inspection, he saw the shipwreck and was amazed by the sight. “It’s amazing, there is no other word for it,” Blackmore shared with excitement. “I’m just curious if they can name the ship, how old it is, and if there were any souls lost on her.”
The ship, which measures 80 feet in length, is estimated to date back to the 19th century based on its construction materials, such as wooden dowels and copper pegs. This has led marine experts to believe that the ship may have been built in Europe, as these materials were commonly used during that time.
Neil Burgess, the president of the Shipwreck Preservation Society of Newfoundland and Labrador, stated, “If it’s oak or beech or a hardwood species like that, it will tell us it wasn’t made here in Newfoundland and was probably made over in Europe.”
However, the ship is shrouded in mystery as little is known about its origin and its sinking. Burgess believes that the ship could have been freed by coastal erosion and storms that recently hit the area, damaging over 100 homes. The sudden appearance of the ship has sparked the curiosity and fascination of the locals, who are now eager to find out more about this piece of history that has been uncovered.
The government has sent a team to secure the ship, as there are concerns about it being damaged by sea ice or drifting back out to sea due to strong winds. Wayne Osmond, a Cape Ray resident, expressed his concerns about the ship being affected by sea ice, stating, “Everyone seems to forget that some years we experience sea ice here. If that happens, within a few hours it can cause more damage to the wreck than a century or more of it submerged in deeper water.”
Despite the dangers, the locals are determined to preserve the ship and learn more about it. The community’s Facebook page has turned into a hub of speculation and offers of research into the ship’s possible origins. Elizabeth Gover, a resident of Cape Ray, wrote on the page, “It is a part of our history that has just been awakened.
Some descendants will still want to know the names and the places where their ancestors were lost in the icy waters off our shores.” She also suggested erecting a marker to honor those who may have lost their lives on the ship.
Residents have also shown their support by volunteering to stand guard and look out for the ship. Bert Osmond, in particular, has been praised for his dedication to ensuring the ship remains secure from souvenir hunters. Anne Osmond, another Cape Ray resident, expressed her gratitude for Bert’s effort, stating, “We want to give a big shout-out to Bert for being there daily to watch over this piece of history.”
The discovery of the shipwreck has sparked worldwide interest, with people eager to know more about its origins and the possible events leading to its sinking. It is a significant piece of history that has been uncovered and has the potential to reveal new information about the past.
