For Immediate Release Contact: Nancy O'Shea/Orly Telisman (312) 665-7100 (For Media Use Only) REAL PIRATES The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship The Field Museum February 25, 2009 - October 25, 2009 “This is a story of the making of America - a true story more powerful than fiction.” – Jeffrey Bolster, University of New Hampshire professor of early American and Caribbean history The classical age of piracy comes to life in Chicago when The Field Museum welcomes Real Pirates: The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship. The 8,400-square-foot interactive exhibition showcases more than 200 artifacts including everyday objects, personal items, and treasures from the first fully authenticated pirate ship ever to be discovered in U.S. waters. Real Pirates, a touring exhibition, is organized by National Geographic and Arts and Exhibitions International (AEI) LLC. Real Pirates tells the true story of the Whydah – a pirate ship that sank off the coast of Cape Cod nearly 300 years ago. The exhibition features treasure chests of gold coins and jewelry, as well as technically advanced weaponry of the time – 18th century cannon, pistols, and swords. These artifacts were painstakingly recovered from the ocean floor over the last 25 years and form the core of this exhibition. “This isn't fantasy – it is the real pirates' treasure that bears witness to this ship's fate,” said Scott Demel, PhD, Field Museum head of collections management. Visitors are provided with an unprecedented glimpse into the unique economical, political and social circumstances of the early 18th century Caribbean. Highlighted throughout the exhibition are compelling true stories of the diverse people whose lives converged on the Whydah before its demise. Multimedia galleries showcase this period of history, including the slave trade based in West Africa and the economic prosperity in the Caribbean. Visitors can get a sense of everyday life aboard the Whydah pirate ship, and meet Captain Sam Bellamy, one of the boldest and most successful pirates of his day. Continue on the journey with Bellamy as he sails, looting dozens of ships before a violent storm sank the vessel off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, April 26, 1717. Continue >>