THE ELUSIVE TREASURE OF THE HMS de BRAAK

The HMS deBraak was a British Royal Navy frigate commanded by James Drew. She was sent to accompany a large fleet to the Virginia Capes but became separated in a storm and spent 7 weeks acting as a pirate ship raiding Spanish and French merchant ships. When she arrived in the Delaware Bay on May 25th, 1798, towing a captured Spanish ship she was, as the story goes , loaded with plunder. A squall sprang up and a huge gust of wind capsized her, sending her quickly to the bottom along with the captain and 42 crewmates. Dozens of recovery efforts were made but failed die to the 90 foot depth and fast currents where the Delaware Bay meets the ocean near Cape Henlopen., Tens of thousands of historically valuable artifacts were found, but the much anticipated treasure has proved elusive and may well be buried deep in the shifting sands. More than one company invested in millions in efforts that were besieged with bad luck and greed. Many say the treasure is haunted. This is the story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices