What a Wreck!

This social event was a 3 mile walk guided by Bexhill Museum to view the outline of the hull of " Amsterdam", a 18th century Dutch East India Company cargo ship and learn of the events which lead to it being beached off Bulverhythe, between Bexhill and Hastings in 1749.  

It was a 700 ton vessel of 54 guns carrying 333 people;192 sailors,11 craftsmen, 5 passengers and 125 soldiers to guard the cargo of silver bullion, gold and silver lace and wine. It was on its maiden voyage to Batavia (now Jakarta, Indonesia) when it fell victim to a combination of crew illness, mutiny and a storm and was forced to beach. 

The outline of the wreck can only be seen several times a year at extreme low tide and is designated under the Protection of Wrecks Act.   

George Coleman said " Such fascinating history, and on our doorstep. The group thoroughly enjoyed the evening and we want to thank Neil Bates for his very informative and interesting guided walk, which brought the story to life."