Is it the Moctezuma?
There is no physical evidence at the site of this wreck to confirm that it is the Mexican schooner-of-war Moctezuma. However, there are some tantalizing clues. This ship is clearly a schooner, as opposed to a cutter, ketch, yawl, or other light vessel known to have been in use on the Texas coast. Although the historic literature has yet to provide a description of the Moctezuma, it is known that it was boasting a crew of 77 when it was captured by USS Grampus on August 28, 1832. This crew component is consistent with a vessel the size of the Boca Chica wreck. Additionally, the Boca Chica wreck is in the correct location to be the Moctezuma. Invincible engaged Moctezuma near the mouth of the Rio Grande and apparently ran the ship aground. The location and orientation of the Boca Chica wreck is consistent with the published accounts of the engagement, although additional research is needed in order to gain a better understanding of how the events took place. Building a case for the Boca
