OCEAN COUNTY – A nearly 136-year-old shipwreck has been uncovered at Island Beach State Park following weeks of beach erosion caused by rough surf and persistent wind and wave action.
Park officials posted the news on their Facebook page on January 22.
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. 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. 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.
Island Beach State Park staff are monitoring the area. Visitors are reminded to respect historic artifacts and cultural resources within New Jersey’s state parks. Touching or removing any part of these resources is prohibited.
Violations are subject to summonses issued by the New Jersey State Park Police.
