This article highlights the discovery of the wreck of HMS Gloucester, a 17th-century warship that sank off the Norfolk coast while carrying the future King James II of England. The well-preserved relics from the wreckage will be showcased in an exhibition called “The Last Voyage of the Gloucester” at the University of East Anglia and Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery in the UK. The article features images of the wreck and the artifacts that have been recovered.
The warship, HMS Gloucester, embarked on a journey to Edinburgh in 1682 with King James II onboard. However, it struck a sandbank and sank, causing the death of around 250 people. The wreckage remained undiscovered until 2007 when it was found by two brothers, Julian and Lincoln Barnwell, who had been scuba diving in search of the ship. Due to the need for protection, the discovery was only revealed to the public last year.
The article showcases a 3D representation of the wreck site as well as various artifacts that have been recovered, such as glasses, Bellarmine bottles, and a bronze bell. These relics provide valuable insights into the history of HMS Gloucester and offer a glimpse into life onboard the warship.
The exhibition, held at the Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery, provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about the fascinating story of the shipwreck and explore the artifacts recovered from the wreckage. It runs until September 10th.
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In conclusion, the discovery of the wreck of HMS Gloucester and the subsequent recovery of its relics provide a unique opportunity to uncover the history of a 17th-century warship and offer insights into the lives of those onboard. The exhibition at the Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery allows visitors to engage with this history and appreciate the significance of the findings.
