Florida Salvage Co. Says it Found Wreck of 198-Year-Old Ship

Key West-based Blue Hole Expedition found the Swedish merchant ship BRIGGEN HIALMAR, built in 1812, 600 miles off St. Johns, Newfoundland. The ship sits on the ocean floor at 16,000 ft in international waters.

The ship and its contents are unknown, however the company reported salvaging the ships bell, a copper pot and some personal items using ROVs.

Blue Hole Expedition has asked that a Miami district judge declare them the owners of the shipwreck. On Tuesday the judge granted the company temporary custody of the wreck and its contents, a final decision is pending.