British Warship HMS Tyger Identified in 18th Century Florida Keys Wreck Discovery

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A wrecked seagoing vessel discovered off the Florida Keys has been identified as the British warship HMS Tyger, which sank in the 18th century. The National Park Service archaeologists used new research to confirm the identity of the ship, which sank in 1742 after running aground on the reefs of Dry Tortugas during the War of Jenkins Ear between Britain and Spain. The discovery highlights the importance of preservation in place, as future generations of archaeologists can use advanced technologies to make new discoveries. The remains of HMS Tyger and its artifacts are the property of the British government according to international treaties.

Discovery of 18th Century British Warship off Florida Keys

KEY WEST, Fla. — A significant discovery was recently made off the coast of the Florida Keys, as archaeologists identified a wrecked seagoing vessel as the HMS Tyger, a British warship that sank in the 18th century. The wreckage was first spotted in 1993 near Dry Tortugas National Park and has now been confirmed to be the HMS Tyger through new research conducted by the National Park Service.

Historical Significance of the HMS Tyger

The HMS Tyger was a Fourth-Rate, 50-gun frigate built in 1647. It met its fate in 1742, when it ran aground on the reefs of the Dry Tortugas during the War of Jenkins Ear between Britain and Spain. The discovery of this ship highlights the importance of preservation in place, as it allows future generations of archaeologists to uncover new findings with advanced technologies and research tools.

Uncovering the Wreckage

Archaeologists surveyed the site in 2021 and found five cannons several hundred yards from the main wreck site, which led to the confirmation that the wreck was indeed the HMS Tyger. The guns were identified as those thrown overboard when the ship first ran aground. The remains of the HMS Tyger and its related artifacts are considered the sovereign property of the British government in accordance with international treaties.

Survivors of the Wreck

After the HMS Tyger sank, approximately 300 crew members were stranded on what is now known as Garden Key for over two months. They built fortifications on the island before eventually constructing seagoing vessels from salvaged pieces of the wrecked ship. The remaining parts of the HMS Tyger were burned to prevent its guns from falling into enemy hands. The survivors then embarked on a perilous 700-mile journey through enemy waters to British-controlled Port Royal, Jamaica.

Legacy of the HMS Tyger

The discovery of the HMS Tyger serves as a reminder of the rich maritime history and the sacrifices made by sailors during times of conflict. The wreckage of the warship and its associated artifacts provide valuable insights into naval warfare during the 18th century. As archaeological techniques continue to evolve, more discoveries like the HMS Tyger are likely to be made, shedding light on the past and preserving historical heritage for future generations.