Panel Discussion on the Sparrow-Hawk Shipwreck

The incredible history of the Sparrow-Hawk—the first recorded rescue in America that took place near today’s Nauset Beach exactly 400 years ago. OHS is hosting a panel discussion featuring three subject experts describing the event and its significance even now.

Local historian and author G. Thomas Ryan will recount the critical roles Native Americans and Plymouth Colony Governor William Bradford played in the rescue of Sparrow-Hawk passengers and crew.

Then Pilgrim Hall Museum (Plymouth, MA) Executive Director Dr. Donna Curtin will talk about the legacy of the ship’s survivors and future research plans for its remains dug out of the sand in 1863.

Also on the panel will be Dr. Calvin Miers, a marine archaeologist at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, who will provide context for the many early shipwrecks off Cape Cod’s eastern shore and describe emerging scientific techniques for studying them. Not much is known for certain about the Sparrow-Hawk, including its original name and design, but new research in the coming months may change that.

After the presentation a Q&A period will follow and refreshments will be served. Seating is limited; please go to OrleansHistoricalSociety.org or scan the code below to purchase tickets online.