Scientists find shipwreck apparently centuries old off NC

DURHAM, NC (AP) – Duke University says scientists using underwater vehicles and sonar have found a shipwreck off the North Carolina coast that may date back to the American Revolution.

The expedition led by Duke marine scientist Cindy Van Dover found the previously unknown wreck in mile-deep waters Sunday using an underwater robot and a manned submarine.

They’ve found artifacts including an iron chain, glass bottles, an unglazed pottery jug and navigational instruments including a metal compass.

The scientists think the wreck dates back as far as the late 18th century based on the artifacts, but a federal government program will attempt to date and identify the lost ship.

The expedition also includes scientists from North Carolina State University and the University of Oregon aboard a vessel from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.

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