Objects
Deadeyes (above and right) and blocks (below) were used in the rigging of old-time sailing ships. In either case, the purpose was to gain mechanical advantage through the use of compound pulleys. This was especially necessary in the days before powered winches, when the only working force onboard was literally manpower.
More: Deadeyes & Blocks ...
Bits of Ancient Village Hide in Murk
A team of archaeologists in scuba gear combs what was once dry land for pre-Lenape artifacts
More: Arrowheads ...
Portholes are used to let light and air into a ship. They are usually constructed of brass for corrosion resistance, which makes them highly desirable as collector's items. The drawing at right shows all the major parts:
- The immovable backing plate, bolted to the vessel's hull, which carries the hinges for the swing plate and deadlight
- The glass swing plate, which is secured shut by large butterfly nuts called 'dogs'
- The deadlight, used when it is desired to black-out the vessel, as in time of war
More: Portholes & Deck Lights ...
While not exactly shipwreck artifacts, lobster traps, scallop dredges, and other fishing equipment are not uncommon sights on and around New Jersey shipwrecks.
Lobster Traps
More: Traps & Dredges ...
What I know about antique glass bottles wouldn't cover both sides of a matchbook. But here are some excellent links on the subject, so you too can learn the difference between a pontil and a blob:
Miscellaneous Links:
Right: Plastic Coke bottle with screw top
More: Bottles ...
