On Wednesday, March 19, the History of Diving Museum will host a Member Mingle, as well as a lecture by author, physician and shipwreck expert Dr. Brian Magrane. Learn about upcoming programs at the museum and the benefits of membership before you enjoy hearing the story of the “Ship of Gold.”
Gold fever was erupting across the United States in the mid-19th century. The side-wheel steamer SS George Law, later renamed the SS Central America, was built to move gold in continuous service on the Atlantic leg of the Panama Route. In 1856, yellow fever was raging in Havana and the ship was diverted to Key West for coal refueling. Not long after her Key West stop, the ship sank in a hurricane off the South Carolina coast, carrying over $2 million in California gold.
Magrane is an Islamorada-based physician and author of “Tortugas Deep-Sea: The Story of a Merchant Ship,” and an avid shipwreck coin collector. He became fascinated with Florida’s sunken treasures and has been involved in maritime heritage projects and shipwreck treasure research. Join Magrane as he takes us through the fascinating history and tragic demise of the “Ship of Gold.”
Are you already a member of the museum or interested in becoming one? Before the “Immerse Yourself” lecture, the museum’s Member Mingle will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. Be sure to stop by during the museum’s extended hours and see featured exhibit “Dive Into Art: Fintastic Fish of Florida” before it closes on April 16. This incredible art display showcases works from artists throughout the Keys, both from students and the Art Guild of the Purple Isles. Each piece is created around a theme of aquaculture, sustainable fishing and conservation. Members of the museum who bring in new signups as well as new members who join that night will receive a free gift.
If you are interested in attending the “Immerse Yourself” lecture either in-person or online via Zoom, visit our homepage DivingMuseum.org to register. This session will also be recorded and posted to the HDM YouTube channel. The History of Diving Museum would like to thank this month’s “Immerse Yourself” sponsor: the Newton Family.
The History of Diving Museum is a nonprofit located in Islamorada (MM83). Divers and non-divers alike are amazed by over 4,000 years of “the quest to explore under the sea.” The Museum has 14 core exhibits plus two annual limited-time Featured Exhibits as well as a Museum Store with unique gifts. Check out DivingMuseum.org for more details, to become a member or shop online.
