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Maryland Historical Trust

Shipwreck Timber Tagging

Weathered timber with identification tag lying on the beach.

The Maryland Historical Trust is a partner in Shipwreck Tagging Archaeological Management Program (STAMP) and invites Marylanders to help document and protect historic ship timbers that wash ashore or move through Maryland’s waterways. 

Why tag and track shipwreck timbers?

Shipwrecks are non-renewable archaeological resources. 

Each timber that surfaces offers valuable information about Maryland’s maritime past, from shipbuilding and trade to naval history and coastal change. 

Tagging and tracking these timbers helps researchers study erosion, storm impacts, and preservation conditions while engaging the public in protecting our shared heritage. 

How STAMP works 

STAMP is a public-science initiative that tracks how shipwrecks change over time. It is led by the Florida Public Archaeology Network.  

  1. Tag & track

    Volunteers attach plastic tags with ID numbers and QR codes to ship timbers found along Maryland’s shorelines. Each tag links to a database entry. 

    When a tagged timber is spotted, members of the public can scan the code or visit the STAMP online tracking form to share location data, photos, and condition updates.

  2. Record & report

    In addition to being recorded using the online tracking form, newly tagged timbers are measured and described on a MD STAMP tag deploying form which is sent to MHT.

  3. Research & preserve

    The information reported using these forms helps researchers evaluate how historic shipwrecks are affected by storms, tides and human activity. This informs management and long-term preservation.    

What to do if you find a tagged timber 

If you discover a timber with an MHT or STAMP logo on the tag, you can help preserve Maryland’s maritime heritage by following these steps: 

  1. Leave it in place. Do not move, cut, or remove the timber. It may be part of a protected archaeological site, even if it appears detached or weathered.
  2. Record the location. Note GPS coordinates or describe nearby landmarks so MHT can relocate it.
  3. Take clear photos. Include the tag, the timber and its surroundings to show condition and context.
  4. Report your find. Scan the QR code on the tag to open the reporting form. 

Your report helps MHT track how shipwreck materials move and change over time. 

Safety & legal reminders 

  • Do not stand on, pry up or drive vehicles over large wreck fragments.
  • Respect private property and shoreline restrictions.
  • All submerged archaeological sites and historic materials — including shipwreck timbers — are protected under the Maryland Historical Trust Act and related laws. 

Report a timber

For additional information about the STAMP Program and to report shipwreck or other archaeological finds from Maryland waters contact us.