An old dugout canoe that could turn out to be an important historical artifact was unearthed by Hurricane Irma and, fortunately, recognized by a local bicyclist. He got a friend with a truck and they put it in the back to be sure it wasn’t picked up as storm debris. Then he contacted Florida’s Division of Historical Resources which sent an archaeologist to inspect it. The canoe weighed almost 700 pounds and was water soaked. It’s being stored in a fresh water pond while it’s being dated and until the conservation process can begin. Other old canoes that have been found were frozen or kept in water until proper restoration was possible. The water must be slowly removed. The wood could crack if the outside is dry and the inside is still wet. Next it is treated with chemicals to kill insects and mold and the dirt is removed. A soluble wax is melted, added to the water, and soaked up by the wood. The treatment process takes a long time and it may take several years before the canoe is ready to be displayed.
Photo: Randy Shots/Randy Lathrop
Indian River FLA USA This is a relatively new canoe of the dug out type as it has iron “square” nails used in it. Note the “modern” bow. The earlier , pre Columbian canoe discoveries found in the USA had the less complex rounded bow, and showed the signs of burning the core and hacking the shape out using stone tools.
Newer boat but very interesting preservation, isn’t it?
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Some decades ago another dugout canoe was discovered after a Mississippi River flood. A pre Columbian artifact that was preserved, but I cannot recall where it is now.
WOW! I wonder how many more ancient artifacts have been uncovered during earthquakes and hurricanes but have been missed
WOW! Wonder how many more ancient artifacts that have been uncovered during hurricanes have been missed
Is there any information re: the origin of this canoe? Is it Native American? Do they have an estimate of its age?
What a find! It is just so amazing that the person that located it knew of its possible historical importance. It seems he took great effort in not only retrieving the piece, but also tracked down the most qualified people to turn it over to for its hopeful restoration. Kudos to him and please thank him. Good Luck to those in their efforts to restore it.
What a wonderful find!
This may be the only good thing that came out of hurricane Irma.
It will be interesting to see what information will be gained from this storm filled ancient gift.
Thankful for the biker that saw this canoe and reported it.
Where was this found? USA or?