T404 - San Esteban (1554 Shipwreck)

The San Esteban was a Spanish treasure ship that wrecked off the coast of Texas in 1554 as part of a fleet sailing from New Spain to Spain. Its discovery centuries later provided invaluable insight into early Spanish shipbuilding and transatlantic exploration of the 16th century.

Each model is expertly handcrafted from the ground up by master craftsmen using original plans, historical drawings, and archival references. Built precisely to scale from high-quality hardwoods such as western red cedar, rosewood, and mahogany, every model is individually constructed using the traditional plank-on-frame method – the same technique employed in full-sized ships. Hundreds of hours are invested in each piece, followed by a strict quality control process to ensure exceptional accuracy, durability, and finish.

This model faithfully captures the robust hull form of a 16th-century Spanish, featuring a rich natural wood finish that highlights the ship’s solid construction. The multiple square-rigged masts are fitted with hand-sewn, weathered-style canvas sails and an intricate network of hand-tied rigging. Detailed deck elements, gun ports, anchors, lifeboat, and the Spanish flag at the stern enhance historical authenticity, while the polished wooden display base with engraved nameplate completes the presentation.

A striking historical centerpiece, this San Esteban ship model is perfect for home decor, offices, libraries, museums, or as a distinguished gift for maritime history enthusiasts and collectors.

History

San Esteban was a Spanish ship that sailed as part of a treasure fleet returning from the Americas in 1554. Loaded with valuable cargo, it encountered a powerful storm off the coast of present-day Texas. Unable to withstand the rough seas, the vessel ran aground near Padre Island, marking one of the most significant shipwrecks in early colonial history.

Although the crew attempted to salvage the cargo, shifting sands and strong currents buried much of the wreck. Centuries later, archaeological excavations uncovered artifacts such as coins, tools, and weaponry, offering insight into 16th-century maritime life. The San Esteban wreck remains an important link to Spain’s transatlantic trade and exploration era.