Bermuda's First Maritime Heritage Trail: The Practical Archaeology of Maritime Heritage Trails and Interpretation Technologies

Abstract

This thesis explores the applicability of a maritime cultural heritage trail that would grant more public accessibility to shipwrecks and maritime sites, while discerning prevailing cultural themes from the analysis of five shipwreck sites--Morgan's Island wreck site, Sea Venture, Warwick, Mary Celestia, and Western Ledge Reef wreck. It further aims to qualify the use of interpretative museum technologies as a means of increasing public access and supporting the existing efforts of public archaeology. While maritime and submerged heritage trails rely heavily on diver attendance for sustainability, this thesis looks to bridge the gap between divers and the non-diver demographic. A 19-question survey was created and administered to 26 individuals who universally supported the use of interpretative technologies in cultural attractions.