THE SHIPWRECKOF THE BATTLE OF LA HOUGUE (1692)

In 1692, Louis XIV gathered an invasion force at the coast of theEnglish Channel, in order to help James II, King of England, regain the throne. Admiral Tourville was summoned to Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue with a squadron of 44 ships to dispatch thetroops to the other side of the Channel.
On 3 June 1692, twelve French ships were sunk in the vicinity of the Island of Tatihou, duringa heated battle with the Anglo-Dutch fleet.

Three centuries later, an excavation was organized on five first-class vessels to gather information on the construction of late seventeenth-century ships of the French Navy.

The prime interest of the researchers was in naval architecture, but several articles were also raised, such as a bundles of holly.
The structures were meticulously analyzed. They illustrate the period’s endeavor to organizeand improve methods of shipbuilding.
Miscellaneous pulleys and pieces of tackle were also studied.

Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, Wreck A/B.
After dismantling the frame, all the wooden pegs used to fasten the frame to the planking aremarked with white stickers.
This operation was carried out before the photo mosaic of the wreck was produced.

Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, Wreck A/B, halyard pulley.
This pulley was deposited close to a nook where many pieces of rigging were raised. Equipped with four bronze sheaves, and operating on two orthogonal levels, they were used to maneuver the mast. Height: 1.34 meters.

Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, Wreck A/B. Pulley called under-topsail or monk’s head.
This pulley, equipped with a wooden sheaf, was found with its roping intact.

Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, Wreck C. Anchor cables coiled around the wreck.
Max. diam. 22cm.

Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, Wreck A/B. Bunches of holly.
What holly was used for on board the great liners of La Hougue remains a mystery(fuel, medicinal use...?)

Excavation : Michel L'Hour and Elisabeth Veyrat (DRASSM)

Photos : Frédéric Osada.