Wreck Site - North America No 1

Statement of Significance

SHIPWRECK
The wreck of the 'North America', together with the other shipwrecks in Koombana Bay, tells the story of the trials and dangers of early trade and transport in and out of the port of Bunbury. 'North America' was one of the whaling vessels drawn to the Western Australian coast to hunt whales for their lucrative oil, and to trade and barter with the early settlers.

Physical Description

Substantial parts of the keel and hull remain buried in the sand [under the carpark with the "Samuel Wright"].

History

'North America' was a wooden whaler from Warren, North America, weighing 285 tons and measuring 29 metres in length.

'North America' was constructed in 1804 in New York and ran aground on 12 April 1843 with cargo of 100 barrels of sperm whale oil, 400 barrels of black oil, and three years' worth of provisions. She ended up on her side, close to the wreck of the Samuel Wright.

American whalers were drawn to the Western Australian coast because of the greater economic return from whaling compared to sealing, due to the larger stock and higher prices obtained in Britain and North America for whale products, particularly oil. Whale oil was an essential lubricant in the early stages of the industrial revolution and was also an important lighting fuel.

In turn, the American whalers provided the residents of the foundling settlement of Bunbury with essential trade and barter.

In June 1843, North America was sold to Captain Scott, the Fremantle Harbour Master, for £125 (other reports state £500). Scott had a new rudder fitted, repaired the vessel and refloated her. However, she was totally wrecked again on 19 June 1843. Scott sent the Elizabeth to Bunbury to salvage as much as possible, but unfortunately she was too wrecked in the process. (Bee B106).

When the rudder was uncovered in 1963, the jarrah timber in it was a puzzle until it was worked out that it had been replaced by Scott's men in 1843.

It has been reported that Reverend Wollaston purchased the bell from North America at the wreck auction for use at St Mark's Anglican Church, Picton.

Archaeology

Shipwreck

Condition

Remains of wreck are buried and scattered beneath the now altered coastline.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.