Wood, Iron and Steel by Bruce Henderson and Kelly Graham is a fascinating exploration of South Africa’s rich maritime heritage, meticulously chronicling 60 shipwrecks along the Western Cape coast. The authors, through their three-year mission with Wreckless Marine, utilized cutting-edge scanning technology to uncover shipwrecks in stunning detail, blending vivid multibeam sonar imagery with on-site dive observations and extensive research.
The book spans an incredible timeline, from 1698 to 2009, bringing to life the stories of ships lost to the sea. Each entry includes technical specifications, historical background, the circumstances of the wreck’s loss, and its present condition, making it both informative and visually captivating. With historic photographs, artistic renderings, and precise coordinates, readers are immersed in the mysteries and beauty of the underwater world.
Notably, the authors discovered 22 previously undocumented wrecks, adding a fresh layer of intrigue and excitement to South Africa’s maritime narrative. Their work sheds light on the often-overlooked histories of these vessels and their crews, bridging the past with modern exploration.
Whether you’re a diver, a maritime historian, or simply someone who loves the ocean, this book is an essential addition to your library. Its seamless blend of historical storytelling and technological innovation ensures that Wood, Iron and Steel is not just a book but an adventure, offering a window into the deep that’s as informative as it is inspiring.