Florida Keys

19th Century Shipwrecks Unearthed by Hurricane Michael

State officials say resources are being used for more urgent hurricane recovery efforts, and there are no plans for state archaeologists to visit the site

Hurricane Michael's deadly storm surge unearthed shipwrecks caused by another hurricane — in 1899.

The Tallahassee Democrat reports it's unclear which of the 15 ships, or how many, that grounded on the Franklin County barrier island during the storm 119 years ago were exposed by Michael.

Facing the Gulf of Mexico, the wooden ships now rest in plain view near the west end of the island.

State officials say resources are being used for more urgent hurricane recovery efforts, and there are no plans for state archaeologists to visit the site.

The 1899 hurricane crossed over the Florida Keys into the Gulf of Mexico where it strengthened into what would be classified today as a Category 2 storm.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
Contact Us