Pensacola Waterfront Survey

Increased development of the Pensacola waterfront, spurred by renovation of the downtown district, threatens shipwrecks and cultural material related to the city's maritime heritage. In order to mitigate this threat, the University of West Florida conducted an extensive survey of the Pensacola waterfront from the mouth of Bayou Chico to the mouth of Bayou Texar during the fall of 2004 and summer of 2005.

Methods included remote sensing using magnetometry and side-scan sonar and ground-truthing of identified anomalies. Approximately 60 targets were identified during the course of the survey and divers investigated those determined a high priority. Archival research was conducted to establish the function, date and nationality of identified vessels and structures.

This data was used to create a GIS database for city and county planters. In addition to its utility for local officials, the survey provided training for both undergraduate and graduate students of the University of West Florida.

This project was partially funded by grants from the Bureau of Historic Preservation, the Division of Historical Resources, and the Florida Department of State. The Florida Historical Commission provided assistance.