Help bring the Newport Medieval Ship back to life to through an animation based on archaeological research into its origins and construction

https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/newport-medieval-ship-visitor-centre-animation

What is the Newport Medieval Ship

The Newport Medieval Ship is a fifteenth century merchant vessel unearthed in the heart of Newport, South Wales in 2002.

The ship was a formidable three-masted craft measuring over 30 metres in length and capable of carrying around 200 tons of cargo. 

It was brought to Newport for repairs or refit in 1468 or 1469. It is thought that, whilst in Newport, the cradle supporting the ship collapsed. The hull was flooded and the majority of the ship was then taken apart, leaving only the lower hull that we have today.  

These remains have been carefully cleaned, recorded and conserved: conservation of the timbers concluded earlier this year. The project is now focused on planning the reassembly and display of the hull and artefacts.

Visitors can learn more about the history of the ship at the Newport Ship visitor centre.

The Friends of Newport Ship support the work of Newport City Council in the continuing conservation of the timbers and all the other artefacts that are part of this amazing treasure – ‘the Newport Medieval Ship’.

2024 Crowdfunder

In 2023, researchers from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and Swansea University announced a breakthrough in the dating of the Newport Medieval Ship. Through the use of oxygen isotope dendrochronology (the study of tree-ring data), they have determined that selected structural timbers of the hull were made from oak trees that were felled in the winter of 1457-58.  

The research, published in the International Journal of Nautical Archaeology, suggests that the vessel was constructed soon after this and had a working life of about ten years before coming to Newport for repairs.

Previous research has shown that the ship timbers originated from forests in the Basque Country in northern Spain and that the ship was likely built along the Basque coast.

Analysis of the artefacts, cargo remnants and plant remains from the ship have revealed trading links with Portugal.

This crowdfunder will create a new animation which will be displayed in the visitor centre and used as part of the education and engagement activities by the Friends of Newport Ship and Newport Museums and Heritage Service. It will compliment a animation created about the final journey which was created by Dextra Visual in 2022.

The animation will be based on the archaeological research about the origins of the Newport Ship including the 2023 research about ships’ timbers and construction. We are raising funds so the animation is completed in time for the 2024 Friends of Newport Ship AGM.

Mid-Level Nautical Archaeologist

Come join R. Christopher Goodwin & Associates, Inc. (RCG&A) as a Mid-Level Nautical Archaeologist. RCG&A is 40-year-old cultural resources planning and compliance firm with expertise across the spectrum of the preservation disciplines Our award-winning team of dedicated nautical archaeologists, geoarchaeologists, and GIS personnel work together closely on important projects that have a significant impact on the nation’s infrastructure and development.

This full-time, permanent position requires a master’s degree in maritime/nautical archaeology or closely related field. Experience in geophysical data collection, processing and analyses is required, as is skill in technical writing. Must meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards (48 CFR 44738- 44739) and have experience conducting or supporting geotechnical investigations is ideal. The candidate also should possess project management experience working in the Gulf of Mexico and along the Atlantic Cost and Outer Continental Shelf.

Experience Requirements:

  • Proficiency working in HYPACK (or equivalent) to plan, collect, edit, and analyze magnetometer data;
  • Proficiency collecting, editing, and analyzing side scan sonar data;
  • Familiarity and some experience with collecting, processing and analyzing subbottom profiler data is a plus;
  • Must have Advanced Open Water and Rescue Diver certifications from a recognized organization (i.e., SSI, PADI, NAUI, etc.). Valid First Aid, CPR, and Oxygen Administration are a plus.

This full-time, salaried professional position carries a full benefits package (paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave; health, dental, and life insurance; and a liberal 401(k) plan). Salary is highly competitive and commensurate with educational and professional experience.

Please upload a letter of interest, a full CV, and contact information for three professional or academic references who can speak to your archaeological capabilities and work experience.