Last year the CEO of the Australian National Maritime Museum announced that the shipwreck remains found in Newport Harbor, Rhode Island, in February 2022, were that of the HMS Endeavour, yet his conclusion was challenged by experts at the Rhode Island Marine Archaeology Project. Now, the ANMM has presented new evidence that it claims proves the ship is indeed the famous vessel once captained by Lieutenant James Cook.
Researchers at the ANMM say their evidence centers on the wreck’s bow. The research team consulted archival plans of Endeavour from 1768. They found a unique joint in the timber of the bow of the wreck; it’s the same type that was included in the original design plans. In addition, a pump well was discovered in Newport Harbor that researchers were able to identify with the original plans for the ship.
The Australian archeology team hopes to work with the Rhode Island government to uncover more of the site. Scientists have been hunting for the vessel since 1999, in a two-square-mile area.
The HMS Endeavour was a ship that launched originally in 1764 as Earl of Pembroke. She was renamed Endeavour for the British Royal Navy and was used mostly for scientific missions. Later, she was sold to private owners who were hired by the Royal Navy to transport troops.
Troops aboard the HMS Endeavour fought against colonists trying to break free from British control during the American War of Independence. In 1778 she was deliberately sunk and is among five British ships that lie below Newport Harbor.
