19th Century Shipwreck Unearthed At Island Beach State Park

ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK, NJ — Weeks of beach erosion have unearthed a nearly 136-year-old shipwreck buried at Island Beach State Park, officials said.

New Jersey State Park officials shared the news in a social media post Thursday.

The Lawrence N. McKenzie was a 98.2-foot schooner traveling from Puerto Rico to New York City with a cargo of oranges when it wrecked March 21, 1890, according to officials. All eight crew on board survived the wreck. The vessel was built in 1883 with a homeport of Provincetown, Massachusetts.

"Beach erosion during the winter months is common at Island Beach State Park and is part of a natural, cyclical process," state park officials said. "Each year, high-energy waves and seasonal storms remove sand from the shoreline, resulting in narrower beaches and steeper profiles. Most beaches recover from the erosion during the calmer summer months — but for now, this winter’s erosion has revealed a glimpse into the park’s maritime history."

The area is currently being monitored by Island Beach State Park staff. Visitors are asked to respect historic artifacts. Touching or removing any of these is prohibited and violations are subject to summonses issued by the New Jersey State Park Police.