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Projects

Clotilda

Mobile River, AL | United States

Scan of the sunken Clotilda ship.
Clotilda is an American, wooden-hulled, schooner-rigged cargo carrier whose final voyage was an illegal slave trading journey to and from Africa. The vessel was finally identified within the Mobile River and designated Site 1BA704. The job’s Phase III operation was undertaken to further examine Clotilda and evaluate potential mechanisms for physical protection from the ongoing erosion and collapse which has resulted in a loss of structural and archaeological integrity over time. Resolve Marine, joined by SEARCH, composed a diverse coalition of archaeologists, scientists, conservators, salvors, and engineers to conduct an exhaustive assessment of Site 1BA704, with the goal of identifying the factors affecting the stability of the wreck and most effective means for preservation.

The specific operations executed on site were as follows:
 
  • Obtain a new high-resolution sonar survey of Site 1BA704.
  • Perform a marine geological study of the site’s sediment.
  • Install, operate, and manage oceanographic meters.
  • Perform a biological assessment of the site’s benthic zone.
  • Conduct a structural assessment of the vessel’s hull.
  • Complete a targeted artifact excavation to recover diagnostic and/or exhibit-quality artifacts.
  • Collect wood samples for scientific analysis.
Phase III of the project uncovered valuable information about Clotilda and its history. Resolve Marine continues to work with its partners on subsequent measures to protect / preserve the site and corresponding historical importance.

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