136-Year-Old Shipwreck Emerges on New Jersey Beach

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A nearly 136-year-old shipwreck has washed ashore on a Jersey Shore beach following weeks of beach erosion caused by rough surf, persistent winds, and waves. Parts of the 98.2-foot schooner, The Lawrence N. McKenzie, which was built in 1883 and was traveling from Puerto Rico to New York City with a cargo of oranges when it wrecked on March 21, 1890, have been uncovered at Island Beach State Park in Seaside Park.

Why it matters

The uncovering of this historic shipwreck provides a glimpse into New Jersey's maritime history and the effects of natural beach erosion processes. However, park officials are warning visitors not to disturb the shipwreck remains, which are protected cultural resources.

The details

The Lawrence N. McKenzie was a 19th-century schooner that was worth $9,000 when it was built, but was declared a total loss after it wrecked in 1890 while carrying a cargo of oranges from Puerto Rico to New York City. All eight crewmembers on board survived the wreck. Now, over a century later, parts of the boat have reappeared in New Jersey due to severe beach erosion during the winter months.

• The Lawrence N. McKenzie wrecked on March 21, 1890.
• The shipwreck remains were uncovered at Island Beach State Park in January 2026 following weeks of severe erosion.

What’s next

Park officials are monitoring the area where the schooner was uncovered and are reminding visitors not to disturb the historic artifacts and cultural resources, as violations are subject to summonses issued by the New Jersey State Park Police.