Discovery of Rare Timbers from the Beeswax Wreck
Shipwreck off the Oregon Coast Reveals New Secrets
In a remarkable discovery, a team led by the Maritime Archaeological Society (MAS) has recovered a dozen timbers from the wooden hull of the Santo Cristo de Burgos, a Manila galleon that sank off the Oregon coast in the 17th century. This find is significant as it makes the vessel one of only three Manila galleons identified on the North American West Coast, and one of just three in the world with surviving wood pieces.
The Enigmatic Beeswax Wreck
The Santo Cristo de Burgos, laden with silk, porcelain, and beeswax, set sail from the Philippines in 1693 bound for Mexico. However, the ship met an untimely fate, becoming one of the estimated 3,000 vessels lost in the region. Over the centuries, stories of the fabled wreck circulated among explorers, merchants, and Indigenous peoples.
Rediscovering the Wreckage
In 2020, fisherman Craig Andes brought fragments of wood to MAS’s attention, having noticed them while exploring sea caves near Manzanita. Initial skepticism gave way to excitement when testing revealed the timbers were from an Asian tropical hardwood felled in the mid to late 17th century.
Retrieving the Timbers
Despite the dangerous and challenging conditions, MAS archaeologists, assisted by other organizations, successfully retrieved the timbers in a 90-minute operation. This mission was funded in part by the National Geographic Society.
Historical Significance
The discovery of these timbers sheds light on the fate of the Santo Cristo de Burgos and other Manila galleons that sailed between Asia and the Americas. The timbers provide valuable insights into shipbuilding techniques and the maritime trade routes of the era.
Ongoing Exploration
While the wooden pieces are a significant find, archaeologists emphasize that the main wreckage has yet to be located. The team hopes to recover additional hull fragments from other caves in the near future.
Cultural Impact
The Beeswax Wreck has captivated the imagination of locals and historians alike. Objects from the vessel, including beeswax and porcelain fragments, have washed ashore over the decades, fueling rumors and inspiring legends. The wreck is believed to have influenced pop culture, including Steven Spielberg’s 1985 film The Goonies.
Preservation and Legacy
The cold, less salty conditions of Oregon’s North Coast and shifting sands are thought to have played a role in preserving the timbers. MAS and other organizations are committed to further exploration and conservation efforts to uncover more secrets of the Beeswax Wreck and its historical significance.