Archaeologists have uncovered significant findings regarding two 18th-century slave ships off the Central American coast. The vessels, named Fridericus Quartus and Christianus Quintus, have been submerged in shallow waters near Cahita National Park in Costa Rica for more than 300 years.
Initially wrecked in 1710, it was long assumed that this ship was a pirate vessel; however, it has now been revealed to have been involved in the slave trade.
According to a statement from David John Gregory at the Danish National Museum, the ships were transporting between 600 and 700 enslaved Africans along with around 100 crew members when they sank.
He explained that most enslaved individuals were released along the forested coast when the ship was abandoned, with only about 20 people making it to a nearby Spanish town’s port.
Gregory noted that one ship was secured, while the other drifted and ended up stranded.
Many enslaved individuals, chiefly from West Africa, were either integrated into local communities or, sadly, recaptured. Excavations, though limited to just 21 square feet, revealed the type of wood used in constructing the ship.
Interestingly, no human remains were found during the excavation, although Gregory acknowledged potential interruptions in the process.
Research indicated that the wood originated from northern Europe. Using innovative techniques, archaeologists were able to date the ship accurately.
The wood came from regions like Mecklenburg in northeastern Germany, encompassing areas in Denmark and Sweden. Its condition hints at historical accounts suggesting one of the ships had caught fire.
Additionally, divers found yellow clay bricks and clay plumbing, all indicative of Danish origins, which aligns with historical records regarding the ships.
Gregory emphasized that the analysis strongly indicates these are indeed the wrecks of two Danish slave ships. A marine archaeologist involved, Andreas Kalmeyer Bullock, remarked that the project has been one of the most fascinating he’s ever participated in.
He further suggested that this discovery not only holds importance for local history but also adds essential details to Denmark’s maritime past.
Such findings provide a more complete understanding of this chapter in history.
