LAMP's Mission
The Lighthouse Archaeological Maritime Program (LAMP) is dedicated
to the investigation, interpretation, and better understanding of
the maritime history and archaeology of St. Augustine, the "First
Coast" region of Florida, and beyond. Through historical research
and the scientific study of shipwrecks and other maritime
archaeological sites, LAMP seeks to engage local and visiting
communities while exploring the dynamic story of our nation's
oldest port city. Humankind has always relied on water for the
transportation of people, goods, and ideas, and the sea has
provided sustenance and livelihoods for countless generations of
maritime communities. With its defensible harbor, extensive network
of inland waterways, and proximity to global shipping routes, St.
Augustine (founded in 1565) was well-suited to become the first
permanent European settlement in the present-day United States, and
thus owes its very existence to the sea.
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The 2009 Symposium, consisting of three days of presentations and
activities related to the maritime archaeology of Florida and beyond,
is FREE and open to the public. Visit the official 2009 Symposium
page for registration and other information.
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LAMP will be hosting its annual summer field school from June 8 to
June 26, 2009. This comprehensive 3-week field practicum is open to
graduate, undergraduate, and non-traditional students who wish to
learn the basics of archaeological recording, underwater excavation,
remote sensing survey, artifact collection & analysis, and laboratory
procedures while working on one or more historic shipwreck sites
offshore America's oldest port. Follow this link for more information
and the online application form.
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The Florida was built in 1904 as a steam-powered dredge vessel tasked
with maintaining the East Coast Canal (today known as the Intracoastal
Waterway). It was known as the most technologically advanced vessel of
its time. After a successful career of channel-dredging and snag
removal, it sank offshore Crescent Beach south of St. Augustine on July
3, 1918, where it remained lost until discovered by LAMP archaeologists
in 2002.
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Archaeologists recover a swivel gun from the 18th century wreck
site. The Industry was bringing supplies to British St. Augustine when it was lost
in 1764.
High School students learn basic archaeology techniques. |
About LAMP
