Discover how maritime archaeology reveals a new understanding of North Carolina’s historic oyster industry, which remains a significant part of the state’s cultural, environmental, and maritime history. In this webinar, look back at the industry during the 19th and 20th centuries and learn how fishers from northern states changed the industry when they entered North Carolina sounds.

Join Patrick Boyle, a doctoral student in the Texas A&M University Nautical Archaeology Program, to gain insight into North Carolina’s historic oyster industry. Learn about the bugeye, a regional type of boat built in Maryland shipyards, and why its construction was perfect for North Carolina waters. Discover the influence of Chesapeake Bay oysterers on the industry, and explore several oyster boat shipwrecks in the region as he talks about his archaeological research. 

Patrick Boyle - Biography Patrick Boyle is a doctoral student in the Texas A&M University Nautical Archaeology Program researching the differing construction methods of the vernacular oyster boats of Chesapeake Bay. Having obtained an MPhil in Historical and Maritime Archaeology from the University of Bristol, UK, and an MA from the Program in Maritime Studies at East Carolina University, Patrick previously worked as the Assistant State Underwater Archaeologist for Virginia's Department of Historic Resources. Patrick spends his free time hiking, reading, and is pursuing his divemaster certification.