Archaeologists from the University of Southampton’s Centre for Maritime Archaeology are finishing a three week survey documenting the island’s underwater heritage. The team leader is Lilli Azevedo-Grout, a PhD candidate at the University of Southampton. The project was sponsored by the University and the Anguilla Archaeological and Historical Society. Financial and in-kind support from the Government of Anguilla, Governor’s Office, Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources, and individuals living on Anguilla have made this project possible.

Survey Team

Despite strong winds which kept the team onshore for more than a week, they have discovered a wealth of submerged heritage. Anguillias have undoubtedly known about these sites for generations. The team believes that by photographing, measuring, and assessing the material that can be seen on the surface of these sites they can better understand how it came to be there, where it was coming from, and the people who were involved in the process.

With this knowledge, the team believes that this resource can become a valuable tool for teaching the youth about Anguilla’s maritime heritage. By preserving this history, Anguillians and their descendants will not only have it to enjoy for generations to come, but also have an interesting local attraction for visitors to enjoy and future archaeologists to study.

Lilli and Molly Crossthwaite with cannons in color Photo courtesy Carl Grout

The sites located by this survey range from the late 1700s to present day. There are sites which extend our knowledge of known events and other sites which tell us about history hitherto unknown.
Nothing was taken from the sites, which should remain property of the people of Anguilla, forever.

Compared to other surveys, this one has been unbelievably successful. It has shown that for every recorded wreck there are likely five which sunk without record. This survey has produced a snapshot of the visible heritage. The amount of heritage potentially buried or not visible is truly staggering. The future potential of this resource for Anguillians, visitors, and researchers, alike is real. While the earliest recorded shipwreck known is from 1628, there are likely others which are earlier. To discover a 16th Century wreck in Anguilla would be truly unique and could attract considerable attention, not only among archaeologists and historians, but also attract new visitors to the Island.

Lilli and John Adams with 19th century anchor. Photo by Dennis Knepper

Mrs Azevedo-Grout believes this is possible and is looking to raise money to return to Anguilla next summer to continue documenting Anguilla’s heritage. She believes the University of Southampton and Anguilla Archaeological and Historical Society can work together to create a Maritime Institute on Anguilla. Such an institution could benefit visiting researchers, tourists, and local Anguillians and serve as a centre for maritime heritage on the island.

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