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This was another interesting year on the
1715 Fleet. The subcontractors to the Mel Fisher Center once again were
diligent in their collection of archaeological data as per the
requirements of the guidelines outlined in the agreement between the Mel
Fisher Center and the State of Florida.
One of the more interesting finds is what appears to be a small
collection of a wealthy female passengers belongings. These may never
have been recognized as such had it not been for the computerized
mapping technology currently being used by the Mel Fisher Center to
document each find by category, spatially, and most recently by the
activity area aboard the vessel where such an item was most likely to
have been found. These levels of viewing artifacts will allow us to
interpret these vessels to a greater degree that ever before.
Also recovered this year is an extremely detailed two escudo gold coin
from the Mexico city mint, it's quality is of a near "Royal"
therefore it receives special treatment in this years report.
We would also like to welcome Chris Horell the new State field
Archaeologist. We hope that there develops among us a long and lasting
professional relationship. We look forward to bring our endeavors to
ever higher standards and look forward to Mr. Horell's input.
The work on bringing together the past twenty years of reports
continues, we hope to have the anniversary edition ready ASAP. There is
much yet to do. Just as there is much yet to do on these fascinating
sites. We are looking forward to the 2002 season with much excitement
James J. Sinclair
Archaeologist |