For 28 years, the Institute of Nautical Archaeology (INA), in partnership with the Nautical Archaeology Program from Texas A&M University, has opened its doors to the community for Shipwreck Weekend to introduce the public to nautical archaeology and showcase their important research.
“We really want to engage with the public and get them just as excited about the history and preservation of maritime history as we are,” said Annaliese Dempsey, captain of Shipwreck Weekend. “Hopefully, we can also inspire and encourage future nautical archaeologists as well.”
This year’s event is Saturday, April 14, on the campus of the Texas A&M University in College Station. The theme is Blackbeard and his flagship, Queen Anne’s Revenge (QAR). Interestingly, this year marks the 300th-year anniversary of the sinking of the ship.
Attendants will see a presentation at 10:30 a.m. in Scoates Hall by Kimberly Kenyon, conservator and field director with the Queen Anne’s Revenge Project, about the history of Blackbeard and the sinking, discovery, excavation and conservation of the QAR.
The open house is happening noon-4 p.m. in the Anthropology Building. Activities include the brail sail replica, kids’ activities, face painting, tin foil boats, a sand excavation, scuba gear to try on, and an underwater handwriting station.
Additionally, all of the Nautical Archaeology Program labs will be open and manned by students who will be able to answer any questions about the research that is conducted in the labs.
Shipwreck Weekend is open to the public and all ages are invited to immerse themselves in the treasures that the Nautical Archaeology Program has to offer.
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Media contact: Annaliese Dempsey at annaliese.dempsey@tamu.edu or 801-430-6631; or Elena Watts at 979-458-8412 or elenaw@tamu.edu
