Archive · 30 Jan 2026
19th-Century Shipwreck Unearthed by Winter Storms in New Jersey
A very old ship that sank a long time ago has been found on a beach in New Jersey.
The ship, called the Lawrence N. McKenzie, was carrying oranges and got stuck in the fog near the coast in 1890.
Everyone on the ship was saved, but the ship itself sank and was hidden under the sand for over 130 years.
Strong winter storms recently washed away the sand, making the ship's wooden parts visible again.
People are excited to see this piece of history, but they are asked not to touch it.
Experts will study the ship to learn more about it.
Winter storms in New Jersey uncovered a 19th-century shipwreck at Island Beach State Park.
The wreck is believed to be the Lawrence N. McKenzie, a schooner that sank in 1890.
The ship was carrying oranges and had a crew of 8 plus its captain.
All crew members were rescued, but the ship sank and was buried under sand for over 130 years.
Park officials are monitoring the site and have asked visitors not to touch the wreck.
- Who
- Crew of 8 and Captain Lawrence N. McKenzie
- What
- 19th-century shipwreck of the Lawrence N. McKenzie
- When
- March 1890 (sank), Winter 2024 (unearthed)
- Where
- Island Beach State Park, New Jersey
- Why
- Winter storms eroded the sand, revealing the wreck
- Ship Name
- Lawrence N. McKenzie
- Year Built
- 1883
- Year Sank
- 1890
- Length
- 98 feet
- Crew
- 8 crew members + Captain Lawrence N. McKenzie
- Cargo
- Oranges
- Ship Value
- $9,000
- Cargo Value
- $2,000