I just got the new National Geographic today and they have a piece on the Titanic. I have just looked at the pictures but will read the article tomorrow if I have time.
They have some pictures of personal belongings that were brought up. There was a bowler hat, a pair of shoes owned by third class passenger William Henry Allen (presumably found in his cabin?) a diamond and platinum ring to name a few. I see this as a grave site.
I seem to recall Ballard made a comment when he first went down after the discovery. He said he saw pairs of shoes on the ocean floor. It stuck him as odd that shoes would fall in pairs like that and then it occurred to him that the reason they were in pairs is that came down attached to people.
I know that we as a species are curious. I know that the Titanic holds our attention. I remember being fascinated by this as a kid and I am still fascinated by it.
We have digs at pyramids and I do not have an issue with it. Same for native American sites and most other "ancient" sites. Is it just me or is this still to soon? Also, as far as the personal artifacts, there is no knowledge to be gain. Pieces of the ship can be justified perhaps. The ship hit an ice berg. Bad construction, cold water, arrogance, not enough life boats... we all know the story.
Bottom line, I don't like the personal artifacts being brought up, sold, looked at ... etc. People died a horrible and needless death. Let them rest in piece.
OK, I'm done.
