Presentation by underwater archaeologist Chris Underwood on May 17th

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alwaingold

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Location
Northern California
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Bay Area Underwater Explorers and Any Water Sports are hosting a presentation by underwater archaeologist Chris Underwood, of the Nautical Archaeology Society, on Tuesday, May 17th at 7 PM. This presentation is open to the public. The topic will be Chris's work on the Swift (full abstract follows), and will include real-life anecdotes surrounding the recovery of an historical monument that had been suspended in time, under the sea. Drawing upon his vast experience as both an archeologist and an instructor, Chris will also be happy to answer questions on underwater archeology. We hope to see you there!

When & Where
Tuesday, May 17 at 7 PM
Any Water Sports
1344 Saratoga Avenue
San Jose, CA

Abstract
The British sloop of war Swift sank off Patagonia, Argentina in 1770. The vessel was conducting surveys of the Falklands/Malvinas Islands where she was based, when bad weather drove the ship northwest towards mainland South America. While seeking shelter in what is now Puerto Deseado the ship struck an uncharted rock and was lost. All but three of the crew survived and were rescued by the warship Favourite a month later.

The wreck of the Swift, discovered in 1982, has survived in a remarkable state of preservation which is reflected in the wonderful collection of artefacts that have been discovered. The lecture will bring to life the extraordinary story of the Swift, her loss, discovery and subsequent archaeological research.

About the Speaker
Chris has been associated with the Nautical Archaeology Society’s training programme since 1986, and is currently expanding it through developing international partnerships. He has a Masters degree in Maritime Archaeology, as well as professional diving qualifications. He first became involved in maritime archaeology in 1978 as a volunteer with the Mary Rose diving team, subsequently becoming the project’s Diving Officer and one of the Superintendents of the Trust’s ship’s recovery diving team in 1982. After the Mary Rose he combined professional diving in the oil and civil engineering industries with accumulating a broad range of archaeological experience on sites around the UK, Baltic, Mediterranean, Indian Ocean and Caribbean, After more than a decade as NAS Training Officer and then Project Director, in 2005 he became a member of Argentina’s National Institute of Anthropology’s underwater research programme working on projects in the South Atlantic, including the excavation and research of HMS Swift, 1770. He continues to run NAS courses in Latin America and academic courses for students at the University of Buenos Aires. His particular archaeological interests are focused on developing archaeological training and historical archaeology.
 
Oh how I wish I lived in the South Bay and/or didn't work full time in the North Bay. It seems like all the great diving presentations are down there and during the week. :(
 

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