Visitors to the New York State Fair might have noticed and even stopped by a large tent near the reflecting pool filled with information and artifacts about the state’s place in maritime history. Dave White with the New York Sea Grant helped put together the exhibit, which is new at this year’s fair. He says it features information about and artifacts from just a few of the shipwrecks in New York’s great lakes and inland waters, including the Finger Lakes, and Lakes Champlain and George.
There’s even a replica of an 18th century bateau, an example of a vessel used during the French and Indian war. State Fair spokesperson Dave Bullard says there are almost too many shipwrecks to count.
The exhibit also features scuba-equipped mannequins showing how diving gear has evolved since the 1950’s. Twice a day at 2 and 4 p.m., researchers demonstrate the use of a remotely operated underwater vehicle, or ROV in the nearby reflecting pool. And kids under 12 can dig into a treasure chest at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Numerous organizations contributed to the exhibit, which is in the state park in front of the horticulture building.
