SEAC Dive Team

Underwater archeologists from SEAC and student compare notes at a site at Biscayne National Park.

NPS

The Southeast Archeological Center is dedicated to the study, protection, and interpretation of the cultural resources of the Southeast Region, including underwater sites. These sites reflect the rich and diverse maritime heritage and history of the region, from ancient villages that once sat along the shore when sea levels were much lower than today, to historic-era wrecks of ships laden with trade goods and colonial foodstuffs from around the world.

Underwater Archeology: Past versus Present

Left image
Underwater archeologists surveying a sunken anchor in 1981 (NPS, SEAC)

Right image
SEAC archeologist surveying a sunken anchor in 2016 (NPS, SEAC)

Take a look at these two photos of underwater archeologists by moving the bar in the center from left to right.
One photo is from 1981, while the other is from 2016.

Underwater archeologists use many of the same surveying methods that have been used for over 30 years, however, newer technologies have made it easier for archeologists to find, research, and better protect underwater sites. Though these photos are nearly 40 years apart, the archeologists are performing the same kind of research; helping to expand our knowledge of underwater resources by mapping historic shipwrecks and excavating submerged archaeological sites.