Dive deeper into shipwrecks

Let's talk shipwrecks! Moderated by Explorer water reporter Zachary Matson

This October marks 250 years since British and Colonial forces clashed in the waters off Valcour Island in a pivotal naval battle that helped shape the course of the American Revolution. The remnants of that battle—including the gunboats Philadelphia and Spitfire and the row galley Congress—serve as time capsules that continue to reveal new stories about the men who fought and the hastily built fleet that delayed British advances long enough to save the rebellion.

This conversation will explore both the remarkable discoveries still emerging from centuries-old wrecks and the urgent preservation challenges facing these irreplaceable pieces of American history.

From exploding cannons and personal artifacts to cutting-edge photogrammetry and the ongoing debate over whether to raise the Spitfire, discover what makes Lake Champlain one of the most significant Revolutionary War archaeological sites in North America.

Pick up the upcoming January/February issue to read Zach's full feature article exploring the ongoing archaeological work, the invasive species threat, and his own journey learning to scuba dive to visit these historic sites firsthand.