Heritage Cases

Previously, permits were issued for non-disturbance surveys, test excavations and sampling for the shipwreck of 'Haarlem'' (magnetometer survey 2015/ case ID 7166; magnetometer survey 2016/permit ID 2216; test excavation 2017/permit ID 2593; sampling 2018/permit ID 2676). Although these did not result in locating the wreck, they provided further indications for its approximate position. Re-assessment of the survey data indicated further anomalies close to the Dolphin Beach Hotel that need to be checked. This permit application is therefore for: 1- test excavations at sites F-H as indicated; 2- sampling of these sites; and 3- further pre-disturbance surveys in the coastal zone below the high-water mark between 33 degrees 49 minutes 23.4 seconds S - 18 degrees 28 minutes 34.3 seconds E (= Target B as indicated during the previous application) and Target E: 33 degrees 50 minutes 39.9 seconds S / 18 minutes 29 minutes 10.5 seconds E. Ad 2: sampling. Sampling will be kept as limited as possible and only undertaken if wreckage is found. The objective is to date and identify potential wrecks by securing either associated material culture, such as shards of pottery, or wood from the structure. Wood samples will be analysed by Wits University, Johannesburg, Analysis will focus on identification of wood species, their origin and age. Ad 3: pre-disturbance surveys. These will be necessary in the designated area until the shipwreck of 'Haarlem' has been positively identified. The objectives are to identify most likely targets and establish a sequence for further test excavations in order to locate the wreck, causing as little disturbance as possible. In addition to magnetometer surveys, resistivity surveys as well as ground penetrating radar may be employed during this phase, depending on availability. These techniques may provide for additional data that can assist in planning test excavations that are to follow.