Robert Grenier, a renowned archaeologist celebrated for his groundbreaking work in underwater exploration, has passed away. During the 1970s, Grenier spearheaded the discovery of the Basque whaling ship San Juan in Red Bay, Labrador, which had sunk around 1565. Reflecting on the experience of exploring the wreck in an interview with CBC Radio’s program, The Broadcast, Grenier expressed his exhilaration, likening it to uncovering a snapshot of the 16th century in Red Bay.
Born in Trois-Rivières, Que. in 1937, Grenier obtained a master’s degree in classics from Laval University before joining Parks Canada, where he became a trailblazer in the emerging field of underwater archaeology. His obituary confirms that he passed away on Jan. 3 in Gatineau, Que. at the age of 88.
Grenier’s journey to finding the San Juan began in 1974 when he received a tip from Selma Barkham, who had been conducting archival research in Spain and suspected the ship’s location in Red Bay’s harbor. In 1978, after wrapping up his research on the British ship HMS Sapphire in Bay Bulls, N.L., Grenier’s team embarked on a mission to Red Bay and swiftly located the San Juan. Grenier emphasized that the vessel, although well-preserved due to the frigid waters of the North, was far from the grandeur associated with famous shipwrecks like the Titanic.
Keith Pike, the town manager of Red Bay, vividly recalls the excitement that surrounded the discovery of the ship when he was just 11 years old. Describing Grenier as not only a remarkable archaeologist but also a compassionate individual who treated everyone with respect, Pike highlighted the lasting impact of Grenier’s work on the community. The town recently honored Grenier with a moment of silence.
Acknowledged as a key figure in underwater archaeology and conservation by Newfoundland and Labrador’s provincial archaeology office, Grenier’s legacy includes leading government-funded expeditions in the Arctic to locate Sir John Franklin’s lost ships, HMS Erebus and HMS Terror. In recognition of his contributions, Grenier was appointed an officer of the Order of Canada in 2004 and chaired a UNESCO scientific committee dedicated to safeguarding underwater cultural heritage.
Grenier’s survey of the San Juan wreck played a pivotal role in constructing a replica vessel, slated to set sail for Labrador in 2027. His notable achievements, including being featured on the cover of National Geographic in 1985, have left an indelible mark on the field of underwater archaeology.