Museum Shipwreck of the James Matthews

About the museum

The James Matthews was a Snow Brig type vessel, that sank in rough weather 100 metres offshore from Woodman Point, in July 1841. 

Whilst the vessel was lost transporting new settlers to the Swan River Colony, however it was discovered to have previously been a slave vessel, named then the Don Francisco and operating during the illegal slave trade era of the 19th century. 

The remains of the wreck lie buried beneath the sands of Cockburn Sound, where the airless environment has led to part of the ship's hull being preserved, whilst exposed timbers decayed away.

As a result of the distinct features of a Slave ship, the wreck has gained significance as one of the best preserved pieces of slave trade history.