Scotland (United Kingdom)

Scotland (United Kingdom)

Secret in the Sands: The discovery of wooden wreck remains on the island of Fuday, Sound of Barra, Outer Hebrides, Scotland

Dr. Dan Atkinson (Wessex Archaeology)

The discovery of a well preserved wooden wreck in the intertidal zone on the remote island of Fuday in the Scottish Outer Hebrides raises some interesting questions around the various management challenges in the investigation, preservation, and the long term protection and appreciation of this significant archaeological discovery. Likely to date to the late 16th/ early 17th century, the wreck requires further investigation to understand more about what may be the oldest known ship remains discovered in Scotland to date. How should management considerations be implemented to best effect? What are the key risks to the site and appropriate protection measures? How can the understanding of the wreck be made accessible to the local community and the wider public? This paper will explore all these questions and more in demonstrating how our significant maritime heritage can be effectively managed for present and future generations.

Cover image: The Fuday wreck (Wessex Archaeology)