In the next few days they will be examining the data recorded during the last few months, especially the period when Hurricane Bonnie passed over the area. M ore unique and interesting artifacts were found as researchers continued to work their way west on the south side of the site along the 30-foot transect. These included additional pieces of the large storage jar, a carved lead sinker, and more lead shot of various sizes. The process of recovering wood samples from various structural elements of the ship's hull was begun. These samples must be taken in a manner to provide a solid remanent of the wood it represents, but should not destroy the character of the piece.
Researchers look for broken ends or splintered pieces to take samples.
These will provide important scientific evidence concerning the type of tree used for ship's construction, the date the tree was cut down, and the deterioration of the wood after the ship wrecked. Small loose pieces uncovered during excavations will be brought to the lab, so that conservators can experiment with preservation techniques. At some time in the future it is likely that they will be faced with treating and stabilizing large sections of the ship's hull. When satisfied the ends have been reached, similar units will be used to explore to the north and south along the baseline. One or both of these large artifacts may be recovered.