Wreck

(rek.) [From Belg. wracke.] (Navig. and Mar. 5W Law.) The destruction of a ship by being driven ashore. Also, a ve el found floating at sea, in a deserted and unmanageable condition. But in order to constitute a legal wreck, the goods must come to land. In former times the most inhospitable and barbarous conduct was exercised against all who had the misfortune to suffer from the perils of the sea; but as commerce and navigation were extended, the law was made to afford the adventurous mariner protection. Wrecks by the common law belong to the government, but if claimed by the true owner within a year and aday, the goods, or their proceeds, must be restored to him. [s. 969]