The Keeper's Blog

Boatbuilders at Work!

2009-11-04T18:40:39Z

LAMP Boatworks volunteer boatbuilders using a planer to smooth the sides of a future keel piece. Now that the oppressive heat of the summer has finally been replaced by cool fall weather, there has been a lot of activity at LAMP Boatworks lately. This volunteer program is dedicated to keeping alive the dying art of building traditional wooden boats. Right now our boatbuilders are in various stages of building four separate vessels. With this flurry of activity, I thought I'd share a few photos so everyone can see our boatbuilders at work.]]> milled one year ago, and have been curing for the past 12 months so that they are nice and dry and ready to go. Here Jim Gaskins shows the planed keel piece lying on a building platform, with a template or mold of the stem in place as it will eventually be positioned. Lying next to the template is the actual stem piece. The next step will be to cut the scarf into the forward end of the keel so these two pieces will fit tightly together like two pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. Another project is the construction of not one but two barca chatas. Barca chata in Spanish means "flat boat" and this is a simple flat-bottomed, flat-ended boat design that was used widely throughout the colonial Americas. Historical documents record a number of barca chatas that were stationed and used at St. Augustine, and while no plans of any of these exist, they were likely similar to the first example that LAMP built and tested in Salt Run back in April 2008. We ended up trading that first barca chata to the Alligator Farm in exchange for a historic dugout canoe. So we decided to built another to replace it, and yet another which will remain in pieces until the Public Day at Kingsley Plantation, sponsored by the Society for Historical Archaeology on January 9th, 2010. Visitors there will have a chance to see this boat being constructed before their eyes. Pictured above are the two single-plank sides of the barca chata. Finally, a fourth boat is close to completion. This is a cross-planked semi-dory, a small flat-bottomed rowing vessel. Maury started this boat before the inception of LAMP Boatworks, and it has served as an on-again, off-again target for the boatbuilders in between other building projects. This little craft will be a present to Maury's grandson. Here he is sanding it before applying a coat of paint. Check back in to see how these four boats progress over the next few months! We expect the first barca chata to be finished by January, the second ready for assembly by that time, and the more sophisticated yawl will be a longer-term project. Our volunteer boatbuilders meet at the Lighthouse every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 am to noon. If you are interested in participating, please show up and we’ll put you to work! No prior woodworking experience is needed, just an interest in traditional boats and a willingness to learn. Come stop by to lend a hand or just to see for yourself this traditional woodworking craft.

12/09/09 Presentation: Discover First America Lecture Series "Pirates! Fact and Fiction"

2009-11-04T15:56:27Z

Presentation Title: BLOOD IN THE INLET: ST. AUGUSTINE AND ITS HISTORY WITH PIRATES Speaker: Brendan Burke, LAMP When: Wednesday, December 9th, 9-7pm Where: Flagler Auditorium]]> Click here to visit the news release with information about the whole series. The first presentation takes place Thursday November 5, titled "Peoples Before Ponce de Leon" and presented by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Willie Johns of the Brighton Reservation, Okeechobee, and Herbie Jim and traditional arts demonstrators, Tampa.

Maritime Research and the Oldest Port

2009-10-30T11:01:21Z

Someone told me this week that Gloucester, MA was America's Oldest Seaport. Good for them, congratulations. St. Augustine, FL is the "Nation's Oldest Port" and those things are quite different. What we mean when we say Nation's Oldest Port is that we are the oldest continually occupied European (A Port is a European concept) economic and defensive sea-hub in the Continental US, or put another way in any of the 50 states in the United States today. We date from 1565. And we remain linked to the sea. Puerto Rico, a US territory, has an even older, continually-occupied town and port. But no where in any of the 50 states that make up our nation, is there a continually occupied port city older than St. Augustine. We see maritime history as about the "America's" and transatlantic ocean voyages and about Atlantic World history, and not simply about one Nation's history, but we recognize that our particular port's significance lies in the fact that we are the oldest port in what is now considered one of the 50 official states in our Nation. We are not claiming to be the first landing site for European's, or to be the first port in the 13 original American Colonies, though by the time St. Augustine was the Capital of East Florida, a British Colony during the American Revolution (Perhaps the 14 or 15th in the New World) the Spanish had been here for hundreds of years. We have documents dating the King of Spain mentioning a port here in St. Augustine as early as the 17th century. So does that small city in MA. But again, by that time we had already been here, and had an aid to navigation, a Spanish watchtower that later became a lighthouse, for the better part of a century. We also want to congratulation the City of St. Augustine on it's First American Birthday Celebration, set to culminate in 2015. We believe and celebrate the fact that Europeans did not discover America, only explored it and settled it. Native peoples were already here, and the first American's in Florida that lived a life "of the sea" certainly deserve to be heralded. We believe the City's chosen name does that beautifully, while still contributing to the public's understanding of the way Spain contributed to the multi-cultural history of what we call the United States of America. We are pleased to see the City pick up and run with the "nation's oldest port" concept, but we caution that we are not "America's oldest seaport" those things are quite different. The America's have many older ports, and the original American English colonies have a unique place in all our hearts. No, we are more accurately our nation's oldest port, and our nation is a place that celebrates a rich multi-cultural history, a theme first studied by our Nation's Oldest Port Heritage Area group in preparation for a hoped for designation by congress so that our community can control and cooperate on stewardship of a host of cultural and natural resources. That point brings me to the study of a little known group, the black mariners who came to St. Augustine and Ft. Mose in small boats as runaway slaves. Later African American mariners gathered oysters in the Victorian era and held beach oyster roasts for Visitors from Henry Flagler's grand hotels. A small African American girl was killed here at St. Augustine Lighthouse during the construction of our 1876 tower, and yet the history of these people that built our maritime infrastructure is little understood. We hope to tell that tale in cooperation with Freedom Road, who are also working on the City's Birthday Celebration. According to Dr. Sam Turner of the Lighthouse Archaeological Maritime Program, writing in a report on the Dredging of Salt Run for the Army Corp on Engineers, Florida itself was discovered and founded in part due to Slavery in the Bahamas. After Columbus's famous voyages, Spain sailed from Island to Island looking for natives to become slaves. A hurricane blew one of these vessels off course and a "vast undiscovered land was seen" that in turn, led to the officially sanctioned voyage of Juan Ponce De Leon in 1513, and La Florida was born. What do you think about these distinctions and ideas? Do they matter? Why? What does maritime history tell us about ourselves? Kathy

10/29/09 Presentation: Search for the Submarine USS O-9

2009-10-29T19:39:26Z

Presentation Title: The Search for the Submarine USS O-9 Speaker: Dr. David Switzer, Plymouth State University When: Thursday, October 29, 2009, at 7:00 pm Where: Anastasia Gallery (upstairs Keeper's House), St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum Come join LAMP research associate Dr. David Switzer as he shares the story of a NOAA expedition in search of a lost submarine and answers to an unsolved U.S. Navy mystery! The United States submarine USS O-9 was launched at Quincy, Massachusetts in 1918 to serve in World War I. She never saw war service but conducted cruises off the Canal Zone in the 1920s. She was decommissioned in 1931 and ten years later as the clouds of war were darkening Europe she was recommissioned. Her new life was to serve as a "training boat" out of New London, Connecticut. But first it was necessary that the USS O-9 and others of the class take a deep submergence test. ]]> Squalus could not surface because of a problem with an induction valve. Unlike USS O-9, Squalus was accessible to divers who were able to attach a newly invented rescue chamber over a hatch making the rescue of a number of crewmen possible. In 1997 by means of sonar, the wreck of USS O-9 was located and found sitting upright on the seabed. A NOAA team relocated the site in 2004 using the Research Vessel Connecticut. Also participating were representatives of the Naval Historical Center, the National Undersea Research Center, and the Marine Studies Program at UCONN. State nautical archaeologists David Switzer (New Hampshire) and Victor Mastone (Massachusetts) were invited as observers of the archaeological "forensic" study to find the answers as to what caused USS O-9's catastrophic failure. The presentation will trace the history of the fated submarine, the relocation and survey, and the reasons that USS O-9 failed her deep submergence test. UPDATE: I have changed the vessel name from "SS 09" to "USS O-9," which according to submariner Jim Christley is the proper form. Thanks to Mr. Christley for bringing this to our attention in the comments section below! About the Speaker: Dr. David Switzer is the Consulting Nautical Archaeologist for the state of New Hampshire and has semi-retired after a 39 year career as a professor of history at Plymouth State University. He is a LAMP research associate who has participated in LAMP fieldwork in St. Augustine and has lectured at LAMP field schools, and has presented a number of times at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum. Dr. Switzer is a true pioneer in the field of maritime archaeology and has directed a number of well-known research projects, including the excavation of a 17th century shallop, the hull recovery of the 19th century clipper ship Snow Squall, and the excavation of Revolutionary War privateer Defence.

Job Announcement: Archaeological Conservator

2009-10-28T15:13:45Z

The Lighthouse Archaeological Maritime Program is seeking a qualified person to fill the job of Archaeological Conservator. This is a full-time position with benefits. This individual will oversee LAMP's conservation laboratory spaces and be responsible for processing and treating archaeological objects recovered from research excavations. The full job description is listed below. Archaeological Conservator The Lighthouse Archaeological Maritime Program (LAMP) at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum is seeking an Archaeological Conservator specializing in the conservation of waterlogged material culture recovered from shipwreck and other historical maritime archaeological contexts. This employee will manage the day to day administration and organization of LAMP’s conservation laboratory spaces, and oversee the treatment, processing, and curation of artifacts of various materials. Will be responsible for developing and maintaining laboratory safety and organizational protocols to professional and ethical standards. Will also assist with LAMP’s ongoing research, administrative, and public archaeology programs. Applicants must be certified divers with scientific diving and underwater archaeology field experience, and must be able to meet American Academy of Underwater Sciences minimum standards for a scientific diver. Applicants must have formal training in the archaeological conservation of waterlogged artifacts, a BA in anthropology, archaeology, or a related field, and at least three years relevant experience in archaeological conservation laboratory and underwater archaeological fieldwork settings. A Master’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, or related fields is strongly desired. Experience with analytic software commonly used in archaeological research, particularly databases, GIS, and Hypack, a plus. Salary is commensurate with experience. Benefits include Paid Time Off and health care insurance. Interested applicants can contact Kyle Worrell at kworrell@staugustinelighthouse.com or 904-829-0745. Address: Lighthouse Archaeological Maritime Program, Inc. St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum 81 Lighthouse Ave St. Augustine, Florida 32080 USA More information on LAMP may be found at www.LAMPmaritime.org. ]]>

LAMP Passes Coast Guard Inspection

2009-10-28T14:13:30Z

The Chaisson Dory Tender, our most recent build. LAMP boatworks has joined the ranks of American professional boatbuilders by passing its first Coast Guard builder's inspection. Marc Redshaw, of the U.S. Coast Guard Recreational Boat Testing & Factory Compliance Program, stopped by for a surprise inspection yesterday afternoon. Sam Turner, head of the boatworks, gave Mr. Redshaw a tour of the facility and presented the Chaisson Dory Tender, our most recently completed project. Last spring we received a Manufacturer's Identification Code from the Coast Guard and our prefix is 'LMP', which will go on every boat built here. While we have been operating under this certification, having passed the first inspection is a nice landmark for the program. Congratulations to everyone who has made this a success! If you would like to help support the program, hull #LMP0003 can be yours. We are currently selling the Chaisson Dory Tender, with handmade ash oars, for $3,500. Stop by and see it at the Lighthouse Visitor's Center.

Lighthouse and the Coast Guard Partner to Clean Sweep.

2009-10-27T16:03:58Z

The LAMP corral is much improved thanks to...the US Coast Guard?! No, we weren't issued a citation for being hazardous to navigation but it certainly looks like there are preparations for an inspection. Over a couple weekends, we have been working with a solid bunch of guys who are in the process of becoming the Coast Guard's newest addition to the Goat Locker.]]> Semper paratus. Breaking a sweat and fixing our fence. The whole team on the first day, September 26th, standing in front of our Memorial Bell.

10/27/09 Presentation: "Fast Food Changes: St. Augustine and its Harvest of the Sea"

2009-10-27T14:53:14Z

Presentation Title: "Fast Food Changes: St. Augustine and its Harvest of the Sea" Speaker: Mr. Brendan Burke, LAMP When: Tuesday, October 27th, 2009, at 6:30 pm Where: First Coast Technical College, Building C The Slow Food First Coast group seeks to "reconnect Americans with the people, traditions, plants, animals, fertile soils and waters that produce our food. We seek to inspire a transformation in food policy, production practices and market forces so that they ensure equity, sustainability and pleasure in the food we eat." Brendan will be presenting a lecture to the Slow Food Group on St. Augustine's role in affecting the culinary habits of US consumers throughout the 20th century. By producing thousands of shrimp boats to help create one of the largest fishing fleets in the world St. Augustine left its mark in how Americans eat and view seafood. Subsequently, the importation of farmed shrimp led to a decline in domestic shrimping, severely cutting the size of the US shrimping fleet and lengthening the distance between our seafood and our plate.

Judyth Piazza chats with Brendan Burke

2009-10-26T21:37:40Z

The replica Nina after arrival to St. Augustine. Remember the arrival of the Nina and Pinta here in St. Augustine on May 9th? Judyth Piazza and her radio show The American Perspective on the Student Operated Press (theSOP.com) interviewed LAMP's Brendan Burke that day and the interview has recently posted. Click the link below to follow to theSOP.com's website and listen! CLICK HERE

10/23/09 Shipwreck Recording Workshop and Archaeology Club Social

2009-10-23T13:00:16Z

Program Title: "Shipwreck Timber Recording Workshop," followed by a BBQ social for the Flagler College Archaeology Club Workshop Taught by: Chuck Meide, LAMP Director, and other LAMP staff When: Workshop is on Friday, October 23rd, 2009, at 1:00 to 4:00pm, followed by the BBQ social immediately afterwards at 4:00 pm Where: LAMP Headquarters (old Coast Guard Barracks) at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum Who's Invited: This activity is open to members of the Flagler College Archaeology Club]]> here and here to read about the recovery of this artifact from the beach at Anastasia Island State Park back in May 2008. Students in the Flagler College Archaeology Club are invited to participate in this workshop where they will learn the basics of historic ship construction and shipwreck recording. Immediately after the workshop we will stage a social for the Club, with a guided tour of the Lighthouse, Museum, and LAMP facilities and BBQ.

City Archaeologist digs 16th century site in the Plaza

2009-10-15T20:16:10Z

Congratulations to our friend and colleague Carl Halbirt, the City Archaeologist of St. Augustine, for a successful dig in the Plaza!

10/13/09 Presentation: "The Galveztown Replica Project"

2009-10-13T16:49:49Z

Presentation Title: "The Galveztown Replica Project" Speaker: Dr. Sam Turner, LAMP When: Tuesday, October 13th, 2009, at 7:00 pm Where: Bowden Building located at 120 Church St., Pensacola, Florida Sponsored by: Pensacola Archaeological Society]]> Galveztown Replica Project is a collaborative project between the Astilleros Nereo, a shipyard in Málaga, Spain, and the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum in St. Augustine, Florida. The project, conceived at the Astilleros Nereo entails the building of a full scale, 18th century sailing brig, representative of the Galveztown of Bernardo de Gálvez using historical and archaeological data to achieve a high degree of historical accuracy. The purpose of the project is to illuminate the life and achievements of Málaga’s famous native son, Bernardo de Gálvez, and to highlight Spain’s contribution to the American Revolutionary War effort and its ultimate success. The role of Spain, lead by Bernardo de Gálvez during his tenure as Governor of Spanish Louisiana, as an ally of the American colonies in their efforts to achieve independence has been overshadowed by the efforts of France that were themselves funded in part by Spain. The Project is intended to address this historical imbalance and to be a vehicle for building good relations between citizens of Spain and the United States in the same spirit as the Spanish-American alliance of the Revolutionary War. Therefore the Project has a United States based collaborative effort in the form of a partnership with the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum.

10/09/2009 Special Program: Florida Sea Grant Adult Daycamp

2009-10-09T14:19:39Z

Event: Special Tour of LAMP and the Lighthouse for Florida Sea Grant Adult Daycamp When: Friday, October 9th, 2009, at 9:30 to 4:00 pm Where: St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum Who's Invited: This private event is open to participants in the Florida Sea Grant Adult Daycamp program This was a great group and everyone seemed to find their visit enjoyable and educational. The participants got a personalized tour of LAMP's facilities, a tasty home-made box lunch from the Keeper's Cafe, a ride on our research vessel, and an opportunity to explore the museum and Lighthouse. They even got a chance to get their hands dirty and helped us sort through archaeological material recovered by dredges on our shipwreck site this summer. Thanks everyone!

10/07/09 Home School Days Program: "Shipwreck Discovery"

2009-10-07T16:55:00Z

Home School Days Presentation Title: "Shipwreck Discovery" Speaker: Education Department and LAMP staff When: Wednesday, October 7th, 2009, at 10:00 am and 1:00 pm Where: St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum Who's Invited: This activity, which addresses Sunshine Standards and is appropriate for ages 2-17, is part of our Home School Days program. If you are a home schooler and are interested in participating in this or other home school programs at the Lighthouse, please call Director of Education Chris Kastle at 904-829-0745. Wednesday's Home School program will consist of three individual activities at pre-arranged stations. Station Two will consist of "Basics of Underwater Archeology," in which LAMP archaeologists will demonstrate the use of a variety of equipment used by underwater archeologists, discuss what it is exactly that underwater archeologists do, and will also talk about current LAMP projects. Click here to learn more about the October 7th Home School Days Shipwreck Discovery Program, including a brief discussion of all three stations.

Radio show highlights Lighthouse & LAMP!

2009-10-03T17:26:56Z

Back on July 25, Kathy Fleming (Executive Director of the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum) and myself woke up pretty early on a Saturday to join Matt Jeffs, a local radio celebrity on 1240 AM WFOY whose morning show Airborne with Matt Jeffs is really fun to listen to. He has all kinds of interesting speakers from the St. Augustine region, and at least once a month he has on a local archaeologist. Apparently Kathy and I have faces that were built for radio, because not only is this broadcast out on the airwaves, but via a webcam it is broadcast on the internet. We talked about all of the great programs at the Lighthouse and gave an update on the shipwreck LAMP was excavating over the summer months, complete with a bucket full of wet artifacts . . . you can watch the whole thing below!]]> You can also check out all of the interviews Jeff has done on his show by visiting http://www.staugustine.com/airborne/ Other archaeology interviews include Amber Weiss of the Florida Public Archaeology Network on August 1st, Sarah Miller also of FPAN on September 12th, and Robin Moore, LAMP Research Associate and our St. Johns County Archaeologist, on October 3rd.