Thank you Father Christmas!

I've been fascinated by the Vasa since I first heard about her on an underwater archaeology course, way back when I first learnt to dive. Vasa was the pride of the Swedish Navy, but sank on her maiden voyage, in full view of the citizens of Stockholm, in 1628. That voyage lasted about 2 hours, followed by 330 years sitting in the mud at the bottom of Stockholm harbour. I'm sure you'll see parallels here with Henry VIII's warship Mary Rose.

Unlike Mary Rose, the loss of the Vasa is documented in quite amazing detail. Although no evidence of the findings of a court of inquiry have been discovered, their deliberations are on record. Salvage attempts were made for up to 60 years after her sinking, before she was left to lie in peace, and her location forgotten.

Father Christmas sent me this book, well a cheerful chap from the frozen north at any rate! It's an amazing account of the sinking, salvage attempts with early diving bell technology, her rediscovery and raising in 1961. Various bits and pieces came with the book; a postcard dated 15.07.1962, a type-written account of what seems like an early visit to see her and a box lid from a replica cannon.

The type written account refers to her as "very small and tub like . . . it appears there are no plans available and it is doubtful if there were any!" Which may explain her sinking!

Thank you very much Father Christmas of Orkney :)