Wreck Wood Cribbage Board

This extraordinary cribbage board, meticulously crafted from wood salvaged from the wreck site of the RMS Titanic, stands as a testament to both the craftsmanship of its maker and the enduring legacy of the Titanic disaster. Created by William Parker, the ship’s carpenter aboard the C.S. Minia, one of the vessels sent to recover bodies and debris in the aftermath of the sinking, this piece holds a deep historical significance.

Constructed from several types of wreck wood, including mahogany, oak, and English walnut, each material represents the different parts of the Titanic that were recovered. The board’s striking design features elaborate inlaid patterns, finely worked holes for pegs, and a pull-out drawer lined with rich purple felt - likely chosen to convey a sense of dignity and reverence for the materials’ origins. The choice of woods and the craftsmanship involved showcase Parker’s skill, while also honoring the ship and those who perished.

This cribbage board is one of a famous pair, the other of which has been exhibited at prominent institutions such as the Ronald Reagan National Library and National Geographic, as well as being featured in numerous publications. The pair represents a unique connection to the Titanic's story through objects that were crafted directly from the remnants of the disaster.

With its imposing size, exquisite craftsmanship, and historical significance, this cribbage board is not just a game piece but a physical manifestation of one of the most harrowing events in maritime history. Its connection to the Titanic, through both the materials and the hands that shaped it, makes it a profound item and a striking exhibit.