A new exhibition showcasing one of the most important shipwrecks found in British waters has opened at Poole Museum.
The Swash Channel Wreck is a huge 17th century vessel thought to have been destined for the New World. The shipwreck has been widely featured in local and national media throughout its excavation, but this is the first chance for people to see objects from the wreck ‘in the flesh’.
There is a children’s trail and other interactive exhibits to interest and entertain visitors of all ages. One of the objects on display is a merman, (picture shows it on the seabed, courtesy of Bournemouth University). Since it was found it has gone through several years of conservation treatment.
Poole Museum’s Young Curators have also played an important part in developing the exhibition and have created a text panel and illustrations for the display.
Cllr Xena Dion, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for a Prosperous and Sustainable Poole, Borough of Poole, said: “This is a great opportunity for the local community to find out more about the Swash Channel Wreck. The exhibition is both fascinating and educational and highlights the rich maritime heritage of Poole.”
The free exhibition is part of a wider project funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and led by Bournemouth University to raise awareness of the Swash Channel Wreck and maritime archaeology in general.
The excavation and research into the Swash Channel Wreck and the exhibition itself has been developed with the help of partner organisations, including English Heritage, the Heritage Lottery Fund, Bournemouth University, Poole Harbour Commissioners, Jenkins Marine and Poole Maritime Trust.
