During the 1999 field season, three test units were excavated on the Denbigh site. These units were chosen to provide as much information as possible about the original construction of the ship, the condition of the wreck's structure today, and the condition of any cargo or other hull contents that might remain. The three units selected were:
Test Unit 1, port side, aft of paddle wheels and engine room. In the area of the foremost deckhouse, extending atwartship from the side shell plating to the centerline of the ship and down to the keel.
Test Unit 2, port side, about midway between the paddlewheels and the stem. In the area of the main hold, extending atwartship from the side shell plating to the centerline of the ship and down to the keel.
Test Unit 3, port side amidships, immediately aft of the paddlewheels and directly over the vessel's port side diagonal engine. Very brief excavation to confirm the presence of the engine and associated machinery.
A summary of the findings of the 1999 Denbigh field season will be added in the near future.
A summary of the findings of the 1999 Denbigh field season will be added in the near future.
Site plan showing test units (TUs) excavated in the 1999 field season. Reconstructed hull plan courtesy Robert Holcombe, Port Columbus Civil War Naval Center, Columbus, Georgia.