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Dual wrecks off Long Branch—Adonis and Rustling—remain popular but limited by sand and access
Summary
Long Branch divers and historians described the shallow dual wrecks Adonis and Rustling as accessible local dive sites with significant artifact removal in past decades; speakers noted sand replenishment and shore development have complicated access.
Local divers and historians at a Long Branch City lecture highlighted the Adonis and Rustling—two closely located 19th-century wrecks—as enduring resources for recreational diving and maritime history.
The presenter introduced the dual wrecks as shallow, popular dive sites where early recreational divers could reach artifacts with limited equipment. Speakers recounted the Adonis running aground in March 1859 and the Rustling coming ashore opposite Grant Cottage; both incidents resulted in rescues of passengers and later became local dive attractions.
Participants described how shifting sands and shore development have altered both visibility and access. Early divers recovered many millstones and other artifacts during the 1960s recreational-diving era, and some pieces have been curated for museum display. Speakers noted that modern protections and parking changes near the shore make direct access more difficult than in previous decades.
Don Clark urged divers to respect safety protocols and local rules. Rich Fernicola described types of artifacts commonly found—millstones, copper sheathing and porthole parts—and said some items are being prepared for future museum exhibits. Organizers encouraged divers and historians to coordinate with museums before removing artifacts.
