Solving a Sunken Mystery is Topic at Keys History & Discovery Center

Islamorada, FL – Keys History & Discovery Center Presents…Solving a Sunken Mystery: The Investigation and identification of a 16th Century Shipwreck, on Wednesday, May 16, at the Keys History & Discovery Center. Doors open at 5 p.m., presentation begins at 6 p.m.

Join Archaeologist Corey Malcom from the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum as he shares the story of a well-preserved shipwreck found on the western edge of the Little Bahama Bank. It was clearly Spanish and dated to the 1500s, but there were no obvious signs of its mission or identity. Careful excavation and analysis of the materials found on the shipwreck, along with clues provided by the remains of the ship itself, shows that the sizeable vessel sailed between 1555 and 1575 and had touched at Tierra Firme (Colombia and Panama) before sinking during a return voyage to Spain. By comparing the archaeological evidence to the historical record, it becomes clear that the wreck can be none other than the Santa Clara, a 300-ton galleon owned by the famed Spanish mariner Pedro Menéndez de Avilés and sunk in 1564. Malcom, who organized the research, will detail the fascinating step-by-step process, from discovery to identification, of this early and important shipwreck.

Cost is $25 for non-members. Light appetizers and a cash bar will be available. Reservations are recommended and can be made at 305-922-2237 or [email protected].

The Keys History & Discovery Center is in Islamorada, MM 82, located at the Islander Resort. The Center is open Thursdays through Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. General admission is $12. Admission for seniors is $10 and children 13-under are free. Florida Keys History and Discovery Foundation is a 501(c)(3), not-for-profit organization operating the Keys History & Discovery Center.

For more information, call 305-922-2237 or go to www.keysdiscovery.com.

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