Shipwrecks on the Chesapeake

Book excerpt: For ages men have explored its shores and harvested the incredible bounty of its aquatic life, but also they have had to suffer the consequences of the destructive forces which it unleashes all too frequently. Marine archaeologist Donald G. Shomette shares in this book, his fascination with those tragedies and disasters which occurred in the bay and its tidewater region over a 370-year period. He lists more than 1,800 of these events between 1608 and 1978, but elaborates on a few of the more significant catastrophes and military losses. Included are tales if incredible bravery, courage, and fortitude, and stories of cowardice, stupidity, and ineptitude.