Archaeologists have recently confirmed the discovery of the remains of the HMS Tyger, a British warship that sank off the coast of Florida almost 300 years ago. The vessel met its fate in 1742 when it ran aground on the coral reefs of Dry Tortugas during the War of Jenkins' Ear between Britain and Spain.
The initial discovery of the wreck was made in 1993, but recent findings have provided conclusive evidence identifying it as the British 50-gun man-of-war ship. A 2021 survey of the site revealed the presence of five cannons near the wreck, believed to be British six and nine-pound cannons discarded when the HMS Tyger first grounded.
The National Park Service shared details of the dramatic ordeal faced by the ship's crew of approximately 300 individuals. After being stranded on Garden Key for 66 days, the crew battled extreme heat, mosquitoes, and thirst while attempting to escape. Remarkably, they managed to construct the island's first fortifications despite their challenging circumstances.
Dry Tortugas National Park Manager emphasized the significance of connecting archaeological finds to historical narratives, stating that such discoveries help illuminate the experiences of past generations. He highlighted the story of perseverance and survival exhibited by the crew of the HMS Tyger, underscoring the role of national parks in safeguarding these untold accounts.
The remains of the ship are considered the property of the British Government, and efforts are underway to preserve the wreck. The National Park Service acknowledged the threats posed by natural elements and human activities to the wrecks at Dry Tortugas, emphasizing the importance of ongoing research and conservation initiatives to protect the historical legacy of the HMS Tyger.
