Zwaanendael Museum history programs to start May 6

Zwaanendael Museum will host the archaeology series History Unearthed and present the Wreck of the DeBraak in virtual programs streamed live during the month of May.

The Wreck of the DeBraak virtual program will explore the history of the British warship DeBraak, which sank off the coast of Lewes in May 1798; it was recovered by treasure hunters nearly 200 years later. The program will be livestreamed via Zoom at 3:30 p.m., Thursday, May 6, and 1 p.m., Tuesday, May 25.  

History Unearthed is a three-day series of virtual lectures exploring Delaware’s rich archaeological history.

Diving Into History: A Look at Maritime Archaeology will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 26, via Zoom. Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs archaeologist Stephanie Soder will explore the history and methods of maritime archaeology and discuss work completed on Delaware's famous and infamous wrecks.

Putting the Pieces Together is set for 1 p.m, Thursday, May 27. The program will explore the role of archaeologists as detectives using their powers of deduction to identify artifacts and put the puzzle pieces together.

Architecture or Artifact will be held at 5:30 p.m., Friday, May 28. Fran Mahon, research fellow for the Preservation Society of Newport County, R.I., will explore how looking at local landscapes and buildings as artifacts can help enhance an understanding of local history. 

Programs are free and open to the public. Registration is required for all programs. To learn more, call 302-645-1148 or email museum@delaware.gov.

For more information and reservation instructions, go to history.delaware.gov.