Lighthouse Archaeological Maritime Program (LAMP)

Archaeological Research - The research arm of the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum is the separately incorporated Lighthouse Archaeological Maritime Program, LAMP. LAMP maintains an active program of both archival and archaeological research and employs archaeologists, a professional paleographer (expert on colonial Spanish script), and an archaeological conservator (specialist in the stabilization of waterlogged archaeological artifacts). LAMP maintains a conservation laboratory, diving locker, analytic laboratory, and also extensive databases of port records, ship losses, and other historical data. It is working actively to bring its stories to the public at the museum and has developed a heritage boat-building program as well as a field school and training workshops for university students, including scholarships for underserved individuals.

Public Archeology - LAMP Boat-works is dedicated to keeping traditional wooden boat-building alive and relevant for new generations by focusing on the construction of traditional vessel types once common in the waters of St. Augustine and Northeast Florida. It also works with archaeologists to aid with the interpretation, reconstruction and experimental replication of archaeological boat and ship remains. LAMP also maintains a research library of thousands of books, reports, documents, papers and audio-visual media related to maritime history and archeology. Throughout the year, volunteers donate their time to build a variety of small craft, including skiffs and barca chata. The building of a Spanish chalup is an ongoing partnership with the St. Augustine Maritime Heritage Foundation and the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. An increased effort to bring more archaeological research to the public is a continuing effort.

Maritime Archaeological Field School - LAMP oversees an intense accredited educational program allowing both undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to participate in a marine survey and underwater excavation of a historic shipwreck site. In addition to methodological training and academic lectures, students get valuable real-world experience in all aspects of archaeological fieldwork, scientific diving and seamanship, and laboratory analysis.