A Ship Graveyard at City Point, Virginia

Abstract

The James River region of Virginia has one of the longest recorded histories in the United States. The area near City Point was colonized in 1613 and is still used as an industrial center. This rich history, coupled with the number of exposed wrecks, led to a side scan sonar and photographic survey that was conducted east of City Point. The goal of the City Point Shipwreck Survey was limited in scope: determine the number of wrecks within the survey area and identify vessel types and dates, if possible. The results of the survey identified 42 wrecks that have been divided into five classifications: rectangular barges or ferries, a tugboat, combination barges, ocean-going vessels, and vessels of unknown type. Historical research indicates that some of these wrecks were likely abandoned after two specific events: the Civil War and the First World War. The number and diversity of wrecks and their methods of abandonment provide a unique resource for archaeologists, while the survey provides a starting point for future archival and archaeological research. These ships represent important elements of trade and transportation from a variety of periods in the history of City Point, Virginia, and the United States.