Schoolboy finds 230-year-old American Revolution warship on Scottish beach

In February 2024, a schoolboy in Sanday, one of the Orkney Islands in Scotland, discovered the remains of a long-lost warship, which was hidden under sand that a recent storm had washed away. This ship is believed to be the Earl of Chatham, an 18th-century vessel serving the British as a convoy escort during the American Revolution. Following the discovery, local historians and residents collaborated on extensive research to confirm the ship's identity, which was finally validated by the archaeological group Wessex Archaeology. Their findings highlighted the ship's remarkable preservation even after 230 years at sea. The Earl of Chatham is a significant naval artifact, known to have traveled across the Atlantic Ocean, with origins and operations stretching from Canada to Greenland. After its military service, the ship was sold to whale hunters in 1784, marking an end to its time as a British navy vessel. Ben Saunders, a senior marine archaeologist at Wessex Archaeology, described the identification process as one of careful elimination, focusing on certain characteristics that distinguished it from other historical wrecks. The involvement of local farmers and community members in the archaeological activities demonstrated a strong desire to reclaim their maritime history. The ship's discovery has sparked a renewed interest in local maritime archaeology, with residents becoming increasingly knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the region's nautical past. The sense of community surrounding the project earned the ship a reputation as a 'lucky ship,' particularly because no crew members lost their lives during its operational years. Wessex Archaeology shared their findings through social media and their website, encouraging public interest and engagement with the ongoing historical narrative. The participation of local residents not only aided in the archaeological research but also fostered a sense of communal pride and identity linked to the maritime heritage of the Orkney Islands. Overall, the revelation of the Earl of Chatham serves as a fascinating reminder of Scotland's maritime history and the stories hidden within its shores. Such discoveries highlight the importance of collaboration between professional archaeologists and enthusiastic local communities who share a vested interest in preserving their historical legacies.