Renowned archaeologist Robert Grenier, known for his groundbreaking work in underwater exploration, has passed away. In the 1970s, Grenier made a significant discovery by locating the Basque whaling ship San Juan in Red Bay, Labrador, which had sunk in 1565. He described the experience of exploring the wreck as a mesmerizing journey back to the 16th century.
Born in Trois-Rivières, Que. in 1937, Grenier earned a master’s degree in classics from Laval University and later joined Parks Canada, where he became a pioneer in underwater archaeology. He passed away on Jan. 3 in Gatineau, Que. at the age of 88.
Grenier first learned about the San Juan in 1974 from Selma Barkham’s archival research in Spain. After years of delay due to other projects, Grenier’s team finally located the wreck in Red Bay in 1978. Grenier emphasized that the ship was not like the Titanic, as it was well-preserved in shallow waters near Saddle Island, thanks to the cold, icy conditions.
Keith Pike, the town manager of Red Bay, vividly recalled the excitement when Grenier and his team discovered the ship when he was just 11 years old. Grenier was praised not only for his archaeological work but also for his kind and respectful demeanor towards others.
Grenier’s contributions to underwater archaeology were recognized by Newfoundland and Labrador’s provincial archaeology office, describing him as a leading figure in the field. He led various expeditions, including the search for Sir John Franklin’s lost ships in Arctic waters. Grenier’s legacy lives on through his remarkable achievements and the replica vessel constructed based on the survey of the San Juan wreck, set to sail for Labrador in 2027.