Real Pirates: The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship

The slave ship Whydah began her life in 1715 London. Less than 2 years later, now a pirate ship, she sank off Cape Cod. Using artifacts recovered from the wreck, Real Pirates reveals the true story behind this vessel—a story more compelling than anything dreamt up by Hollywood. Meet the crew of a real pirate ship—and gain insights into the violence and idealism of early 18th century piracy.

This exhibition features real stories of the people who populated the Atlantic world in the age of slavery and piracy: artisans and traders from West Africa, slave ship captains and their captives, Native American boat pilots, impoverished sailors from all over Europe, and pirates—including women pirates and John King, a boy no more than 11 years old who "went on the account." Guests see more than 200 actual Whydah artifacts, such as treasure from more than 54 ships, gold and silver coins from all over the world, Akan gold jewelry, cannons, swords, pistols, personal belongings, leg iron moldings from shackles, the ship's bell and its massive anchor! Kids also learn about the exciting world of nautical archaeology and the many technologies that have been developed to allow scientists and historians to unlock the clues embedded in these 300 year old "treasures." Discover how high-powered digital x–rays of mysterious underwater concretions can reveal the artifacts hidden within.