Sheridan R. Jones. HISTORICAL AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION OF THE MacKNIGHT SHIPYARD WRECK (0001NCR). (Under the direction of Lawrence E. Babits) Department of History, Summer 1996.

This thesis presents an archaeological and historical analysis of the MacKnight Shipyard Wreck. Four questions guided the research: who built the vessel, where was it built, what function did it serve, and how does this vessel fit into the maritime history of Indiantown, North Carolina? The approach to these questions was both historical and archaeological. Research conducted in archives, supplemented by personal interviews and underwater field research, which included a survey of the vessel's physical remains, provided the answers to some questions and raised others.

The investigation revealed that the wreck at the MacKnight Shipyard, located on Indiantown Creek, Currituck County, North Carolina, was a schooner of the late colonial/early Federal period. It was probably built in northeastern North Carolina where it engaged in the riverine, sound, and coastal trade. This trade was conducted from a site with historical and archaeological significance to northeastern North Carolina, Belville Plantation of Thomas MacKnight. Several authorities believe the vessel is eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places.