The Alabama Historical Commission Maritime Heritage Program works to protect maritime archaeological sites in Alabama waters and to advance awareness and understanding of the role of maritime affairs in the history of Alabama. Through leadership, assistance, and expertise in maritime history, preservation, and archeology we help to interpret and preserve our maritime heritage by:
• Maintaining inventories of historic maritime properties in Alabama waters
• Providing preservation assistance through consultation
• Educating the public about maritime heritage
• Co-issuing and monitoring permits for maritime archaeological investigations in Alabama waters
Among the most recent projects, in May 2019, after a comprehensive assessment and months of research, the Alabama Historical Commission announced experts and archaeological evidence determined the identity of the Clotilda - the last-known slave ship to enter the United States. In May of 2022, we conducted fieldwork to assess the condition of the site. The data collected in that project is currently being analyzed and the report is being finalized. Visit our Clotilda page for more information.
If you did not find your questions addressed here, please contact us.
We work in partnership with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) in issuing permits for exploration and documentation of Alabama's submerged cultural resources.
The Alabama Underwater Cultural Resources Act (AUCRA) was written in response to the federal Abandoned Shipwrecks Act of 1999. It is a state law that manages and protects shipwrecks and archaeological sites in Alabama waters. See full text of the law at http://www.alabamaadministrativecode.state.al.us/docs/hist/460-X-12.pdf.
If you are interested in applying for a maritime archaeological investigation, contact State Archaeologist Stacye Hathorn 334-230-2649 or stacye.hathorn@ahc.alabama.gov.