Analytical comparison of two 16th century shipwrecks

Abstract

In 1559, a small Spanish fleet arrived in what is now known as Pensacola Bay in Pensacola, Florida. They were to attempt the first Spanish settlement in Florida. Shortly after their arrival, severe weather crippled and sank several of the Spanish ships. Underwater archaeologists found the first of the lost fleet in 1992, and have conclusively identified it as one of the missing Spanish ships. A second ship has been found nearby and is undergoing excavation. Hundreds of artifacts have been recovered and are being compared to those from the first shipwreck. Through comparative analysis of site features, wreckage, and the artifacts recovered, it is possible to determine if this second wreck is indeed part of the same Spanish fleet.