The 1992 Maple Leaf Field Investigation
Introduction
 Research Design
Location & Environment
Previous Work

The 1992 Field Season
Water Testing
Site Preparation
Forward Deck Documentation
  Methodology
  Findings
Cargo Hold Excavation
  Methodology
  Findings

Conclusions & Recommendations
References Cited

Appendix I & Recovery Items
Figures & Tables
Abstract

In 1992 Saint Johns Archaeological Expeditions, Inc. and East Carolina University Program in Maritime History and Nautical Archaeology entered a cooperative agreement to conduct a three year investigation of the Maple Leaf Site (8DU8032). This research will assess the extent of the remaining vessel structure along with the condition and contents of the cargo hold. This report will discuss the field investigation completed in 1992 during the first year of the agreement. The investigation completed mapping and documentation of the forward deck, and a test excavation inside the forward cargo hold. A description of the artifacts recovered from the forward cargo hold is included as Appendix I.

 Acknowledgments

The efforts of many individuals made this report possible. Special thanks goes to all the volunteers of Saint Johns Archaeological Expeditions, especially Keith Holland, Lee Manley, Ed Kee, George Holland, Mac Sweat, Zack Taylor, Steve Michaelis, Paul Kramer, Larry Tipping, Frank Surface, Robert Lunsford, Mike Dupes, and Mike Barker.

 

 Thanks also to the staff and students of the 1992 Maritime History Program's Summer Field School including Brad Rodgers, Bill Still, Richard Stephenson, Steve Sellers, Hans Van Tilburg, Jim Sibthorp, Amy Mitchell, Stan Duncan, Tom Stoltmann, Debby Westerman, Adriene Askew, Edward Prados, Matt Russell, Chris Olsen, Dan Warren, Sabrina Faber, Andy Lydecker, Pete Capolotti, and Sean Tanner.

Student interns Tom Parham, James Collie, Cindy Burns, and Regis Baldauff from the University of North Florida helped with artifact conservation and illustrations.

Special thanks goes to several people who provided particular help. Florida State Archaeologist Jim Miller's unflagging support proved instrumental in securing project funding and state assistance. Gordon Watts' advice and intuitive perspective on shipwreck excavation helped to solve many of the problems encountered during the interior excavation. Martin Peebles provide the excellent rendition of the bow excavation used on the cover. The skillful help of Mary Miller alleviated many administrative headaches. Finally, I would like to recognize all those people not mentioned who added to the successful completion of the field season.