Finding of the Drake Plate

This oral history transcript, recorded between 1955 and 1959, documents the story surrounding the "Drake Plate," an alleged historical artifact purportedly left by Sir Francis Drake during his voyage to California in 1579. The transcript features interviews conducted by Willa K. Baum with Leon Edward Bocqueraz and George P. Hammond, offering firsthand accounts and perspectives related to the plate's discovery and subsequent analysis.

"Finding of the Drake Plate" provides valuable insights into the controversies and debates surrounding the plate's authenticity. It touches upon questions of historical evidence, forgery, and the interpretation of historical narratives. This document serves as a resource for researchers, historians, and anyone interested in California history, the age of exploration, and the challenges of verifying historical artifacts.

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