The Swiss Army Knife of the 18th Century: An Analysis of How Balandras were used in Historic Spanish Salvaging Efforts
Abstract: Spanish Plate Fleets departing Havana, Cuba faced many hazards while on their voyage back to Spain. The greatest danger to the fleets, however, were unexpected hurricanes which could wreck entire convoys. As a result of such storms, Spanish authorities established salvage facilities in Havana to administer relief to survivors and mount salvage operations. Although Spanish authorities kept detailed records, little research has focused on the methods and vessels used to recover submerged cargo. Using the 1622, 1715, and 1733 Spanish Plate Fleets as case studies, this article examines salvaging methods and how balandras (small sloops) were implemented in the salvaging process.
Key Words: historic salvage, shipwrecks, 18th century, vernacular shipbuilding, balandra, Spanish Plate Fleets