New partnership announced to advance understanding of underwater cultural heritage

SAVED FOR THE NATION

A new partnership will see two of the top names in marine archaeology and conservation working more closely on public education, research and shared exhibitions telling the stories of the UK’s fragile and fascinating maritime heritage. MAST (Maritime Archaeology Sea Trust) and York Archaeology will work together on government and private projects in the field.

“York Archaeology has a long-standing global reputation for its work in the conservation of artefacts and structures from the marine environment, and this absolutely complements MAST’s work on underwater cultural heritage,” comments Paul Filntoft, head of archaeology for York Archaeology’s York office. “Each organisation has its own particular strengths, and together, we can offer a compelling service for many of the larger marine heritage projects – particularly government contracts – that require a full service, from archaeological exploration and conservation to public display and education.”

York Archaeology and MAST, in conjunction with Bournemouth University, have previously collaborated on objects from the HMS Invincible (1744) following a major rescue excavation and the 17th century armed Dutch merchantman known as the Swash Channel Wreck. The baroque gunport carvings and ornate rudder, featuring a male mustachioed head, from this 17th century ship are now on display at Poole Museum.

CEO of MAST, Jessica Berry, said, “I am delighted to be forming an even stronger alliance with York Archaeology. We have an excellent symbiotic relationship and we are stronger together.”