While everyday items recovered from shipwrecks are fantastic at helping us understand the way people lived during a specific period of time, there are also rare items on board that cannot be replicated or replaced. Shipwrecked Treasure Museum is home to several truly unique historic items that are either extremely rare or truly one-of-a-kind!
Original Bell from SS Republic: The SS Republic was originally known as the Tennessee, and although the name of a ship may change throughout its career, the original bell is never replaced. Finding the bell with the original “Tennessee” inscription helped to identify the shipwreck as the SS Republic when it was discovered.
Porcelain Couple: These pieces depicting an elegant couple were clearly made as a set. Based on the Rococo style popular in the 18th century, this type of porcelain figure would have been displayed on mantles and tables in aristocratic homes. The Porcelain Couple pieces on exhibit at the museum were featured on a Discovery Channel documentary about the SS Republic wreck site and in National Geographic’s coverage of the shipwreck recovery in 2004. Replicas of these pieces are available in our gift shop.
Blue Willow Ware Platter: This piece is a beautiful example of the Blue Willow Ware pattern, which was popularized in the 18th century, sparking what we know as the image of fine china today. In fact, many of today’s modern china sets utilize the Blue Willow pattern. This original china plate is gorgeous, especially in person!