Ships of Bermuda - 1750-1799
St George
1751, the "St George",a Bermudian-registered vessel, master Ric Baker,
brought 6 black slaves from St Christopher to Virginia. (Bernhard, 1999, p285)
Prince of Orange
17 Sep 1751, Christopher Cotterell was apprenticed from Christ's Hospital to his
father-in-law Isaac Walton to serve Thomas Hunt, master of the "Prince
of Orange" bound for Bermuda (PW Coldham, "Complete Book of Emigrants", Vol
4, p7).
Adventure
4 April 1753, the sloop "Adventure" of Bermuda, master Horace
Wood entered inwards at Charleston. Came from Virginia with mixed cargo.
(Virginia Colonial Records, Survey Report 2067, f. 3-41-42r., pg 2)
Luckey
1754, the "Luckey",a Bermudian-registered vessel, master Richard Pitts &
Co, brought 3 black slaves from Providence to Virginia. Again in 1754, the
"Lucky" brought 2 Turks Island slaves to VA (Bernhard, 1999, p285)
Charming Ann
1754, the "Charming Ann",a Bermudian-registered vessel, master George Tucker,
brought 4 black slaves from Bermuda to Virginia. Again in 1755,under master Edward Godfrey
& Co, brought 4 slaves from Bermuda to VA. Again under master Richard Cocks (?Cox)
& Co, brought 2 slaves from the York River, VA to VA. (Bernhard, 1999, p286)
Ruby
In Nov 1754, a mutiny occurred aboard the schooner "Ruby"
when a Spanish slave Dick murdered his owner, the vessel's captain John
Seymour, a black crewman. A balck Bermudian seaman "knock'd him on the head
with a handspike and retook the schooner". They sailed on to Bermuda.
(reference: Jarvis, M. 1999. Searfaring
Slaves & Maritime Culture in Bermuda, 1680-1783. Univ of VA/Omohundro
Institute.)
Defiance
Peggy
Dec 12 1757 - June 7 1758: ttestations on claim by the Defiance
(private ship of war) that captured the Peggy on 12 Nov 1757 on her
passage from Virginia to Maryland. The Defiance belonged to
James Russell, Richard Symes, John Snow, Allen Bright, Wm Stokesley, Samuel
Sedgeley. Mariners on the Defiance included Dennis Coffey, Thomas
Vasey (Vesey ?), Lancelot Peacock and Daniel Looney.
Molly
1762, the "Molly",a Bermudian-registered vessel, master Sam Peniston Jno
& Saml Paynters, brought black slaves (1 man & 4 women) from Bermuda to
Virginia. (Bernhard, 1999, p286)
Ready Money
The sloop "Ready Money", master Thomas Joell, from Philadelphia to New
Providence, met with a violent gale that forced her to make for Bermuda about December
1761. Lewis Johnston, mate and Francis Vesey, sailor (see court actions).
The sloop sailed from South Carolina 12 Feb 1762, bound for St Christopher, and again met
with a gale, coming to Bermuda. Master Thomas Joell, Francis Vesey, sailor
and Lewis Johnston, mate (see court actions).
Dolphin
The snow(sp?) "Dolphin", master William Doe, from New Providence on the
23rd of Jan 1762, arrived at Turks Island on the 4 Feb, and left for Maryland 7 Feb...
Protest filed in Bermuda 23 Feb 1762 re. her (see court actions).
Charming Nancy
The sloop "Charming Nancy", master John Goodwin, mate John Cox,
mariner Jonathan Stone. Protest filed 22 December 1762 (see court actions).
Charming Mary
The "Charming Mary", master Benjamin Vesey. On the 28rd of Dec 1762,
protest filed in Bermuda 23 Feb 1762 re. her (see court actions). Benjamin Vesey
protested nonpayment of a bill against George Bascome, and Thomas Osborn of
Eustatius.
John
1763, the "John",a Bermudian-registered vessel, master Wm Seymour & Co,
brought 4 black slave from Barbados to Virginia. (Bernhard, 1999, p286)
Mary
1765, the "Mary",a Bermudian-registered vessel, master Wm Riddle & Co,
brought 2 Barbados black slaves to Virginia. (Bernhard, 1999, p286)
Esther
1765, the "Esther",a Bermudian-registered vessel, master Thos Joell & Co,
brought 11 Nevis black slaves to Virginia. (Bernhard, 1999, p286)
Sally
1765, the "Sally",a Bermudian-registered vessel, master Thos Hutchins,
brought 3 Barbados black slaves to Virginia. (Bernhard, 1999, p286)
Dolphin
1766, the "Dolphin",a Bermudian-registered vessel, master John Outerbrize
(?Outerbridge), brought 4 black slaves from Montserrat to Virginia. (Bernhard, 1999,
p286)
Porgy
Feb 1767, a Spanish guarda coasta attacked 2 Bermuda
sloops gatherine salt at the Tortugas. One was the "Porgy", master Benjamin
Stiles. (reference: Jarvis, M. 1999. Searfaring
Slaves & Maritime Culture in Bermuda, 1680-1783. Univ of VA/Omohundro
Institute.)
Anne & Elizabeth
Governor Bruere's Letter No 5
(8 August 1768), enclosure No 4, pp 1-13. Deposition of John Robinson, commander of
Bermuda sloop "Anne & Elizabeth", sworn at Bermuda, 21 April 1768.
Deposition is one of a number sworn at this time relating to seizure of sloops fetching
salt from Tortuga by British warship. Robinson intended to take charge of
salt to Virginia, where he estimated it would sell for L300 of Virginia
money. (reference: Virginia Colonial Records Project, SR 3172, PRO CO 37/32;
Bermuda, Entry Books of Commissions, Instructions, etc.
Three Brothers
5 Sep 1769, inventory of estate of Hon. Thomas Gilbert of Warwick, Bermuda lists
ownership of the sloop "Three Brothers" values at 1010 pounds.
Lovely Peggy
5 Sep 1769, inventory of estate of Hon. Thomas Gilbert of Warwick, Bermuda lists a
quarter part of the schooner "Lovely Peggy", Gilbert Livingston,
commander now at sea.
Harlequin
1769, Commander Benja. Stiles - Sloop “Harlequin” arrived
at Turks June 15th from St. Eustatia - with 16 new negroes - Ballast, Bound for Caicos Islands
(CO23/19).
Lexington, formerly Wild Duck
c1770's, Lexington, a 16-gun brig, captured from the Americans in 1777, escaped. Was the
"Wild Duck", built in Bermuda. (Royal Naval Ships built in Bermuda , Bermuda
Historical Quarterly, vol 18 no2, 1961 )
Dolphin
The sloop "Dolphin", Edward Dunscomb master, from Barbados arrived SC
1770 (Timothy's Marine Ltd list of ship arrivals).
Warwick
See the "Robert" below.
Robert
The sloop "Robert", 15 tons, Charleston, master Joseph Vesey; owner, Joseph
Darrell (merchant, Charleston); built, Bermuda 1767, former register, Warwick,
cancelled; registered 14 May 1771.
(reference: Ship Registers in the SC Archives 1734-1780 pg 261)
Molly
Nov 1772, customs officers seized the sloop "Molly", suspecting a cargo of
foreign rum. The Captain Perient Trott, owner Alex. Stockdale and others
boarded the vessel, forced off the officers, and made for sea. (Bermuda and the American
Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 37).
Industry
Early 1774, the ship "Industry" of Limerick stranded on the north rocks. The
ship was stripped by Bermudians. (Bermuda and the American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 37).
Letter from Gov Bruere to Secretary of State. Bermuda, 12
August 1769.
(reference:
Virginia Colonial Records Project, SR 3175, PRO CO 37/36))
Lady Catherine
In 1775, the Pennsylvania committee of safety engaged the sloop "Lady Catherine"
Capt George Ord master, with 40 men as delegation to Bermuda to trade powder of St
George's for exemption from the embargo. They made away with Henry Tucker's (of
Somerset) 8 (1/2) barrells of powder. He credited the powder to Capt John Cowper,
of NC, Henry's agent in America. (Bermuda and the American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg
47). No 13. Letter from Gov Bruere to
Earl of Dartmouth Bermuda, 17 August 1775. Description of attempt to take powder magazine,
and connection with this of sloop "Lady Catherine" of Virginia. No 22.
Letter from Gov Bruere to Earl of Dartmouth Bermuda, 24 January 1775. Further details
about above shipwreck. No 24. Letter from Gov Bruere to Earl of Dartmouth Bermuda,
13 September 1775. Further details of aove incident, and part played in it by sloop
"Lady Catherine" of Virginia. (reference: Virginia Colonial Records Project, SR
3175, PRO CO 37/36))
Charleston , Lady Catherine, Savannah Packet
In 1775, the Charleston, SC committee of safety sent the schooners "Lady
Catherine", "Charlestown" and "Savannah Packet" as delegation to
Bermuda to trade powder of St George's for exemption from the embargo. They arrived Aug
1775 and made away with gun powder on 14 August, reaching Charleston and depositing the
powder, later used at Fort Moultrie. (Bermuda and the American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 47;
Bermuda Historical Quarterly Vol XXV, No1, 1968).
Scorpion
The "Scorpion" was sent in 1775 by Gage and Admiral Howe to remove
Bermuda's cannon from the Islands, fearing that the Americans would take the ornance after
the powder. (Bermuda and the American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 53).
Sea Nymph
1775, US Congress authorized Mr Edward Stiles, of Pennsylvania and a former
Bermudian, to send the brig "Sea Nymph" Sam Stobel master, to Bermuda
with cargo (such as lumber, soap, and candles). (Bermuda and the American Revolution;
Kerr, W; pg 53-4).
Betsy and Ann
May 1776, the sloop "Betsy & Ann", Ben Tucker master, was given
permission to exchange 1700 bushels of salt and two puncheons of rum for provisions at
Greenwich, Cumberland, NJ. (Bermuda and the American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 54).
Dispatch
Summer 1776, St George Tucker, his father? and one other purchased the sloop
"Dispatch" to smuggle rice, loaded with salt at Turk's Islands in Nov 1776, and
proceeded to Virginia and sold the cargo. (Bermuda and the American Revolution; Kerr, W;
pg 55).
Adelphi
1776, St George Tucker purchased the sloop "Adelphi" for trade as he had
the "Dispatch" above. He apparently chartered the sloop to Norton and Beale,
master George Gibbs. (Bermuda and the American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 55).
Lively Betsy
On 5 Oct 1778, the "Lively Betsy", master John Pearman, was captured by
privateers "Tryon", George Sibbles commander and the "George Elizabeth",
Pendock Neale commander, on her voyage from Virginia to Bermuda with a cargo
of flour, Indian corn, and tobacco. Court paper, petition to the Court of
Appeal and a copy of the process of the trial of the "Lively Betsy" in the
Court of Vice-Admiralty of Bermuda in 1779 are contained in the PRO, class
HCA 42/134 (1779 High Court of Admiralty: Prize Appeal Records, bundle
"a", 48pgs) (ref: Virginia Colonial Records Project survey report #6490,
06160).
Adonis
In 1778, St George Tucker sent the "Adonis", Capt Trimingham to
Curacao, the ship falling to the Frence on return. (Bermuda and the American Revolution;
Kerr, W; pg 56).
Sally Van
Lost in 1779, the "Sally Van" owned by Henry Tucker. (Bermuda and the
American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 57).
Success
The sloop "Success"; Capt John Tucker- Henry Tucker of Somerset
owned a quarter share of 3000 lbs of salt on her in 1777. (Bermuda and the American
Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 57). In a letter to his brother St George Tucker of
Virginia dated 17 Dec 1777, Henry Tucker mentions the sloop Success, Capt
John Tucker, "in which I am a Quarter concerned. She has in upwards of 30000
bushs Salt on Acct of the Owners- is a fine large Bermuda Sloop- & cost a
great Deal of Money. As all her accounts are not yet collected I cannot tell
the exact amount, but I imagine with her salt, Advance to the People, Wages
pd to the Day of Sailing &c she will come not much short of L2000 Currv. If
you can serve Capt Tucker in any Respect I know you will do it without my
urging you to it." (BHQ vol 6 #2 p79-80).
Friendship
About 1777 Henry Tucker of Somerset employed the brig "Friendship" which
made two runs to St Eustastia, St Thomas, and Turks. (Bermuda and the American Revolution;
Kerr, W; pg 58).
Nautilus
In the summer of 1776, Admiral Lord Howe sent two sloops of war to interrupt
Bermuda trade with America, the "Nautilus", Capt John Collins, (arrived
Jun 19, departed Oct 20 1776), and the "Galatea", Capt Thomas Jordan,
(arrived Sep 7 1776). (Bermuda and the American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 66).
Galatea
In the summer of 1776, Admiral Lord Howe sent two vessels to interrupt Bermuda
trade with America, the "Nautilus" and the "Galatea". (Bermuda and the
American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 66).
In 1777 Bridger Goodrich bought a fine Bermuda sloop, a prize of the
"Galatea", and refitted her as a privateer. On his initial commission he took 5
prizes of which two were Bermudians which he brought back to Bermuda. His seizure of
Bermudian vessels raised a storm of indignation particularly at the Western end of the
Island and Henry Tucker of Somerset formed an association to boycott Bridger.
Bridger took this opposition in his stride and engaged himself to marry Elizabeth
Tucker, a kinswoman of Henry; the association's threat took
little effect. By 1779 the Goodrich fleet of privateers maintained such a
blockade in Chesapeak Bay that Governor Thomas Jefferson wrote John
Jay, President of the Congress "Our trade has never been so distressed since
the time of Lord Dunmore".(Bermuda Historical Quarterly Vol XXV, no
1 1968)
Repulse
The "Repulse", a sloop of war, sent 1776 to interrupt Bermuda trade with
America. (Bermuda and the American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 66).
Duke of Grafton
HMS St Albans
HMS Richmond
HMS Phoenix
HMS Emerald
This folder dated 1780 contains 19 numbered documents, 4 court papers and 5
ships' papers, elating to the capture of the "Duke of Grafton", Nicholas Hanson
(Hinson) master, by a number of English men-of-war.
1. New York Court of Vice-Admiralty; Adv.-Genl. etc. v "Duke of Grafton". Libel
showing that Richard Onslow, Capt of HMS St Alban's, on behalf of imself, Capt Gedouin,
HMS Richmond, Capt Hyde Parker, HMS Phoenix, and Capt Caldwell, HMS Emerald, claims that
the Duke of Grafton captured by them 27 Dec 1777 in Hampton Road, Virginia, to be
condemned as prize. Filed 9 Jan 1778. Endorsed as above.
(reference:
Virginia Colonial records: Survey Record No 5731, pg 4, folder 12)
L'Active
A French brigantine, "L'Active" was wrecked on the northwest rocks off Bermuda
in Dec 30 1777. (Bermuda and the American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 71).
Lord Amherst
Feb 1778, the "Lord Amherst", Capt Hartwell, carrying invalid soldiers,
wrecked off Bermuda and were rescued by Bermudians for a price. (Bermuda and the American
Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 72).
Randolph
June 1777, the American vessel "Randolph" at Bermuda. (Bermuda and the American
Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 80).
HMS Hope
Paul Paynter, son of Paul (will 1784) and Mary Paynter of Fairfield (now known as Somerwood, Sandy's), was a master mariner and rescued the HMS Hope which had foundered on the western reef in 1778 and successfully brought her to Ely's Harbour. (ref: Bermuda Architectural Heritage Series: Sandy's).
Ann
The Ann, master James Darrell was captured by
the privateer Eolus , commander Phillip Giffard, on a voyage from
Nantes to Charleston, SC in 1778. (Virginia Colonial Records Project,
PRO, class H C A 32/362, Survey Report #5898, pg1, High Court of Admiralty;
Prize papers).
Evening Star
New York Court of Vice-Admiralty: John Pindar and others v. Evening Star and
cargo. Libel showing that on 4 July 1780 the "Evening Star" was captured in
Chesapeak Bay in the colony of Virginia- a ship of 40 tons with a cargo of tobacco and
corn, by "Resolution", John Pindar, commander; "Delight", Jacob Stout
commander; "Venus", Joseph Trohear commander; "Hibernia", James Hanna
commander; and "Retaliation", ___ Cameron commander, and taken into New York.
Her condemnation is prayed. Filed 21 July 1780. Endorsed as above. (4pp)
Depostion of Hinson Gilbert, master of "Evening Star", born in Bermuda
and a subject of King George III. He was pressed at capture of the vessel in Rappahannock
river, Virginia on 4 July 1780. She sailed under English colours. and she was taken prize
because of where she was found. There was a crew of 7, cargo of salt, and was destined for
Rappahannock. It was on her return journey that the Evening Star was captured. She was
laden with 1400 bushels of corn, and 10 barrels of flour, all shipped at Rappahannock.
Both vessel and cargo were deponent's property. (4pp). (reference: Virginia Colonial
Records; Survey Report No 5737; p2-3; folder 8; PRO class HCA 32/327; High Court of
Admiralty: Prize papers, 1778-1780)
Southampton
British troops were sent to Bermuda in 1778 & 1779. Some took charge of a
condemned vessel "Southampton" apparently against the wishes of the customs
officers. (Bermuda and the American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 83).
Ranger
St Andrew
In a bundle of nine unnumbered documents, four court papers, five ship papers,
relating to the sloop "Ranger", John Ingham, master a vessel of 20 tons and
carrying a cargo of salt, and her capture by the privateer "St Andrew", Simon
Donnell commander on 19 Feb 1779.
NY Court of Vice Admiralty: Simon Donnel v the Ranger
Court papers:
These documents set out an interesting story. The "Ranger" was taken off
Cape Charles because she was found voyaging from Bermuda to Virginia, her master, John
Ingham being a Bermudan and a British subject. She sailed from Bermuda and picked up her
cargo of salt at Turks Island. Her owners were Bermudans and british subjects and entered
an answer and claim agianst libel of Simon Donnell alleging that owing to the dread threat
of famine int he Bermudas, the Gov James Bruere issued a license to the Ranger to proceed
to Virginiaa to beg for provisions to save the population from starvation and to take a
cargo of salt from Turks Island in payment. The final court document is an appeal against
the condemnation of the Ranger.
Ships papers:
These include the register for the Ranger dated 8 Jul 1778 (very delapidated and
needing repair) and a clearance dated 4 Jan 1778 for Turks Island, as well as a document
issued by the Governor and Commander of the Bermudas, James Bruere, to all flag officers
and others telling them of the grave threat of famine in the islands and licensing John
Ingham to proceed in the Ranger to Virginia to beg the benevolence of the North Americans,
who are asked to set aside on this occasion their animosity to the Mother Country. This is
dated 25 Jan 1779. (6pp.) (Virginia Colonial records, SR 5992, pg 3)
Friendship
Mohawk
New Court Court of Vice-Admiralty. John Freeman v. Friendship and cargo.
Libel showing that the Friendship of 40 tons burden on 23 Mar 1779 was captured by Mohawk
and carried into New York. Her condemnation is prayed. Endorsed as above. Filed 31 Mar
1779.
Deposition of William Potts of Maryland and Barbadoes, a passenger on board the
Friendship and present at her capture, and a British subject. The vessel sailed under the
English colours. James Cox the master lives in Bemruda and is also a subject of King
George. The crew numbered 8 in addition to passengers, and all were shipped in Bermuda.
The Friendship's last voyage began at Bermuda and she was cleared for New York but James
Cox the master had a pass from the Governor of Bermuda to go to Virginia, and deponent
believes she was bound there when captured. The vessel was loaded with salt, rum, nails,
sugar, and dry goods. James Cox and a John Dakers of Bermuda were part owners of ship and
cargo, but deponent was owner of 2 hhds of rum and a small amount of sugar. Part of the
cargo was shipped by Mr John Tucker on freight. The said cargo was to have been sold in
Maryland or Virginia. Endorsed as above. (4pp)
Deposition of James Cox, master of the Friendship, residing in Bermuda and a
British subject. The vessel sailed under English colours and was going to Virginia, as the
deponent had a pass from the Governor of Bermuda to go to Virginia. If the Friendship had
met a British man-of-war in Chesapeak bay he would have consulted with teh Commander with
respect to the validity of the said pass and , had the said commander been of opinion tha
tthe Friendship was not sufficiently authorised to proceed to Virginia, the deponent would
have gone to new York (4pp). The Friendship, master
James Cox, 40 tons burden, was captured by the privateer Mohawk, master John
Freeman 23 Mar 1779 and carried into New York. William Potts of
Maryland and Barbadoes, passenger on baord the Friendship and present at her
capture gave a deposition. The vessel sailed under English colours. James
Cox was Bermudian. 8 crew plus passengers and all were shipped in Bermuda.
Her last voyage began at Bermuda and was cleared for New York. (clearance
dated 6 Mar 1779) but James Cox had a pass from the Gov of Bermuda to go to
Virginia. Vessel was loaded with salt, rum, nails, sugar, and dry goods.
James & John Dakers of Bermuda were part owners of ship and cargo. Part of
the cargo was shipped by Mr John Tucker on freight. Cargo to be sold in
Maryland and Virginia. James Cox, master also deposed. Objections to the
condemnation of the Friendship filed. Permit from Gov of Bermuda to James
Mudie to take on board 3 white and 5 negro sailors for a voyage to New York.
Permit from George Bruere, Gov of Bermuda to James Cox of the Friendship to
proceed to New York with supplies for His majesty's forces, dated 8 mar
1779. James Cox declared at the Freindship was jointly owned by him, John
Dakers, and Francis Darrell of Bermuda. A pass from Gov Bruere for the
vessel, if she cannot provisions for Bermuda in NY, to go to VA for them, on
the grounds that the people of Bermuda are in the greatest want for bread
particularly, and are in danger of dread and dire famine. (Virginia Colonial
Records Project: S.R. 5742; repository: Public Record Office, folder 24, p
12-13).
(reference: Viriginia Colonial records: Survey Report No
5742, PRO, class HCA 32/335, High Court of Admiralty: Prize Papers, 1778)
Camilla
1779/80, Capt Collins of the "Camilla", his Majesty's ship,
seized a brigantine belonging to Forbes and took it to New York. (Bermuda
and the American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 83).
Betsey and Nancy
August 1780, William Murray, master of the "Betsey & Nancy"
of Bermuda, was given permission to change his salt for American flour and corn. (Bermuda
and the American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 91).
Congress took into
consideration the report of the committee on the memorial of Will Murray;
and thereupon, Resolved, That it be recommended to the president and privy council of
Delaware, to permit William Murray, master of the schooner Betsey and
Nancy, of Bermudas, to export, in said vessel, to the value of the present cargo of salt
by him imported into and sold in that State, in flour, Indian corn, or other produce for
the use of the distressed inhabitants of the said island; taking security from him that
the same shall not be applied to any other use.(reference: Journals of the Continental
Congress, Wed, Aug 30, 1780 )
Benjamin
Benjamin, master Benjamin Tucker. On June 1780, appeal by
Tucker that the ship did not have commission to seize prizes. Taken on 1
April 1777 by the Isis and the Tyger and brought into Jamaica
where it was condemned as a prize in July 1777. (Bundle: June 1780, Virginia
Colonial Records Project, survey report no 14564, pg9)
Truce
Victory
Named in a bundle of papers, including court papers; the Truce, master
Perient Trott and her capture by the privateer Victory, Wm Thompson off Cape
Charles on 12 July 1780. (Virginia Colonial Records Project, SR #6186, pg 2
Court papers).
Three Friends
Three Friends, master Nathaniel Butterfield, 50 tons, with a cargo of
salt was a Bermudian Vessel with a crew of Bermudians and she sailed
from Bermuda for Turk's Island, loaded there with salt and was on her way to
Virginia when captured by the privateer Lord Howe, commander Thomas Jan off
the capes of Virginia on 28 Oct 1778. A document is also included for clearance issued at Bermuda for a
voyage to the Caicos Islands as well as a number of scraps of paper
concerning purchases at Turks Is. (Virginia Colonial Records Project, SR #6186, pg 2
NY Court of Vice Admiralty Court papers).
Experiment
The sloop Experiment, master Stafford Dickinson.
Appeal by owners of the ship and cargo, all citizens of Bermuda. Captured by
the Spitfire and carried into Bermuda where it was condemned as a
prize. (Bundle: August 1780, Virginia Colonial Records Project, survey
report no 14564, pg9)
Somerset
The Somerset, master Burrows Gilbert, Nov 11 1780.
Appeal by the owners, all citizens of Bermuda. Captured by the Governor
Tonyu? and condemned in the Vice Admiralty Court of East Florida in Oct
1776. (Bundle: Nov 1780, Virginia Colonial Records Project, survey report no
14564, pg9)
Kitty
The committee, to whom was referred the memorial of Joseph Basden,
delivered in a report. The Committee to whom was referred the memorial of Joseph
Basden of the Island of Bermuda, report, That, by various testimony (part of
which is herewith submitted) not only the petitioner but the
inhabitants of
Bermuda in general appear to maintain the good disposition towards these United States
which induced Congress in their proceedings of Novr. 22d. 1775 and That, by various
testimony (part of which is herewith submitted) not only the petitioner but the
inhabitants of Bermuda in general appear to maintain the good disposition towards these
United States which induced Congress in their proceedings of Novr. 22d. 1775 and July 24
1776 to consider them in a friendly or at least a neutral relation. That humanity and
policy more than the mutual commercial interest which is mentioned in the first
proceedings above alluded to, seem to plead for a continuance of that same relation. That
the inhabitants of Bermuda encouraged by the terms of the 5th and 6th articles of the
treaty of alliance between his most Christian Majesty and these United States have
forborne acts of hostility against the subjects of his most Christian Majesty in like
manner as against the people of these States. That a vessel commanded by the petitioner
has been taken at the Island of Turks Island by a French Frigate, and others are
continually liable to the same fate, whereby the foundation of commercial intercourse
between Bermuda and these States as it was regulated in Novr 1775 will be destroyed,
Wherefore, your Committee submit to Congress the following Resolution Resolved, That the
case of the Sloop Kitty commanded by Joseph Basden and captured by a French Frigate be
communicated to the Honbe the Minister plenipotentiary of France, and that the Situation
of the Inhabitants of Bermuda in general be recommended to his attention for such
Representations as he may judge proper to make thereon to his most Christian Majesty.1
[Note 1: 1 This report, in the writing of James Lovell, is in the Papers of the
Continental Congress, No. 19, I, folio 213.] Adjourned to 10 o'Clock to Morrow.
(J.
of the Continental Congress, Fri, Aug 4, 1780)
Paragon
In about Jan 1781, the "Paragon", owned by Tuckers at
the Bridge, was taken for smuggling, by the British garrison battalion. (Bermuda and the
American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 108-9).
Hornet
August 1781, the "Hornet" was procured to take smugglers at Bermuda.
(Bermuda and the American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 110).
Porgy
About Oct 1781, persons and letters were allowed to leave the
"Porgy" under a flag of truce, by Traill and Controller
Stiles. (Bermuda and the American Revolution; Kerr, W; pg 122).
Invoice of tobacco shipped in the Charity at owner's risk and consigned to
Daniel Jennings Esq, merchant, St Eustatia- contains a list of shippers;
includes St George Tucker who shipped 20hhds of tobacco at the risk of
messrs Tucker, Jennings, Lightbourne and Harvey, late owners of the Porgie
and consigned to Mr Daniel Jennings, St Eustatia. (Dec 11 1780)
(Virginia Colonial Records Project, folder 4, SR 5724 (05460), pg 2-3).
Badger
1776, Badger, 138 tons, purchased by the Royal Navy, possibly Bermuda built. (Royal Naval
Ships built in Bermuda , Bermuda Historical Quarterly, vol 18 no2, 1961 )
HMS Delaware
The "HMS Delaware" arrived in Bermuda on 1 December 1779 from America, carrying
officers and men of the Royal Garrison Battalion (personal communication/ unverified).
Charity
No. 29. Letter from Gov Bruere to Secretary of State. Bermuda, 24
December 1778. Description of seizure by rebel privateer of Bermuda sloop
"Charity" and of that part of the cargo belonging to two loyal Virginians,
George Gordon and George Jackson, residing in Bermuda. (reference: Virginia Colonial
Records Project, SR 3176, PRO CO 37/37).
Deposition by Brigadier General Benedict Arnold dated 29 Aug 1781 re. the
vessel Charity, on behalf of himself & others to share all prises and goods
taken. Deposition also of John Owens, born in England and resident of
Bermuda, master of the Charity and present at her capture at James River, VA
on 31 Dec 1780, being loaded with tobacco and sailing under Dutch colours.
Seized by HMS Charlestown. He was appointed master by Daniel Jennings the
owner, resident of St Eustatia. The Charity is 110 tons burthen and the
deponent and a negro boy were the only persons aboard at the time of
capture, the crew having deserted the vessel. Her voyage began at St
Eustatia with a lading of salt, rum and molasses for Virginia (dated 17 Feb
1781). Invoice of tobacco shipped in the Charity at owner's risk and
consigned to Daniel Jennings Esq, merchant, St Eustatia- contains a list of
shippers; includes St George Tucker who shipped 20hhds of tobacco at the
risk of messrs Tucker, Jennings, Lightbourne and Harvey, late owners of the
Porgie and consigned to Mr Daniel Jennings, St Eustatia. (Dec 11 1780)
Includes a letter from St George Tucker, Petersburg, 11 Dec 1780, to Daniel
Jennings, St Eustatia. States Capt Durrel (Darrell?) is now at Richmond
loading, and prevented from coming down the river by several days illness
contracted at Hampton. (Virginia Colonial Records Project, folder 4, SR 5724
(05460), pg 2-3).
Paragon
Schooner "Paragon" was libelled in the Court of Vice Admiralty
in Bermuda in 1781 and deserted by the claimants upon their appeal, per a letter of Gov Wm
Browne to Lord Sydney of London. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly Vol 1, No 3, 1944, p 126)
Felicity
HMS La Fortunee
The Felicity, master George Darrell was captured by the HMS La Fortunee,
Capt, Hugh Christian 1781. Mate on the Felicity Wm Sewell deposed, born in
VA and present at the capture off the Cape of Delaware in Sep 1781, flying
Danish colours and going to trade at Philadelphia. George Darrell of the
Island of St Thomas, master. The crew of 11 were all Bermudians and shipped
at St Croix. The vessel is Bermuda-built. Owners Mesrs Peniston & Jennings
of St Croix and the cargo consigned to Andrew & James Caldwell of
Philadelphia. (Virginia Colonial Records Project, SR #5744, pg 14 -15,
Folder 17).
Shark
Schooner "Shark", Gideon Ellis master, owner Richard
Tritton, a
prize registered at Halifax, posted entry at Bermuda Sep 1782. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly,
Vol 1, No 2, 1944, p 124)
Deane
Regulator
A Bermudian privateer, the "Regulator" fell prize to the
Continental frigate "Deane" of the US Navy on 10 May 1782. 70 of her 75 man
crew were black slaves. When offered their freedom in the vice-admiralty
court trial of the Bermudian prize, they declined and instead asked to be
returned to their homeland, Bermuda. (reference: Jarvis, M. 1999. Seafaring
Slaves & Maritime Culture in Bermuda, 1680-1783. Univ of VA/Omohundro
Institute.)
Betsey
The brigantine "Betsey, master Abraham Vesey and mate John Eveson,
protest filed in Bermuda February 1783 (see under court actions).
HMS Cerebus
Henry Joseph Liberty Deborah Two Brothers Hawke Sarah & Rebecca Porgey Polly Welcome Return Delight
Susanna Tryal Ann Henrietta Friendship Jane Elizabeth Sally Dispatch Carlton Recovery Dove Arrow Poplar Active Badger, previously Spencer? Gracieuse Little Eleanor Success Ann Harlequin Salome Fame Active Aurora Dasher Driver Experiment In 1797, Daniel Tucker, Hezekiah Frith and the three Wood brothers purchased
the schooner "Experiment", followed the next year by another ship of the same
name. An "Experiment", first owned by Bridger Goodrich and then by
brother Edward was lost c 1797 to privateering. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVII,
no 2). The 3 Wood brothers may be Joseph, Stowe, & Richard.
The HMS Cerebus went down at the entrance to Castle Harbour in 1783. The 32 gun frigate was located and the cannons retrieved during salvage work c1916-1917.
The ship "Henry" left Bermuda April 1784 under Capt W Tindall, master,
arriving at Halifax, Nova Scotia. Passengers were soldiers and their families from the
Royal Garrison Battalion, Bermuda and included Sgt John Low. "Our group of
Garrisioners left Bermuda aboard the Henry under Captain Tindall within a few days of 24
April 1784". (personal communication/ unverified). Built in 1776 in Whitby, owner J
Yeoman; port of survey Carolina; tonnage 350; rigging ship with single deck with beams,
sheathed in 1777.
The Joseph sailed from Long Island, NY in November 1783 bound for Nova Scotia, but due to
storms rerouted to Bermuda. In April 1784, she sailed on to Anapolis Royal, Nova Scotia.
Among those aboard were a negro slave Sambo, wife Phyllis, and children Anthony
& Nancy. (reference: private communication/ unverified)
Sloop "Liberty", William Wainwright master, built and registered
in Bermuda 1784. Anthony Wood owner. Posted entry to Bermuda Nov 1784. (Bermuda Hist
Quarterly, Vol 1, No 2, 1944, p 124)
Sloop Deborah, master James Hill, with salt, sugar,
and dry goods to Virginia; named in a list of vessels cleared from the Naval
Office in Anguilla June 30 1784; entered in Custom House, Anguilla, 12 Oct
1784 with flour from Virginia. (reference: Virginia Colonial Records
project, survey report #7630, PRO BT6/264 misc. papers 1784-1786, Board of
Trade Class List).
The schooner Two Brothers, master Thomas Watlington,
with flour and salt from Virginia; entered in the lists of vessels in Custom
House, Anguilla January 10 1786; Oct 12 1785, cleared the Custom
House, Anguilla with salt for Virginia. (reference: Virginia Colonial
Records project, survey report #7630, PRO BT6/264 misc. papers 1784-1786,
Board of Trade Class List)
Brig "Hawke", George Kid master, built in Bermuda 1781 and
registered Bermuda 1785. George Mair owner. Posted entry to Bermuda Jan 1785. (Bermuda
Hist Quarterly, Vol 1, No 2, 1944, p 124)
The sloop "Sarah & Rebecca", Capt S Hall, : record of bill
of fees given at Mr Traill's office 11 Nov 1785. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly Vol 1, No 3, 1944,
p 122)
The sloop "Porgey", Capt T Brownlow was charged fees for
clearance inwards and outwards at Bermuda by Mr Traill, Collector of Customs 5 December
1785. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly Vol 1, No 3, 1944, p 122)
unknown vessel
December 29 1785, Gov William Browne, Bermuda sent communication to Lord
Sydney of London, regarding removal of Collector Mr Robert Traill via the
"Polly", Capt Rankin and an unknown vessel, Capt Don Perente de Vraga bound for
Corunna Dec 31. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly Vol 1, No 3, 1944, p 118)
The "Welcome Return", a Bermuda registered, cedar built sloop built c 1785, was
owned by Nathaniel Butterfield, also master in 1788. Her tonnage was probably under
60 tons. She was chartered by Mr Cooke of Charleston, SC for one year for the
periodic shipment of supplies to the plantation of the Island of Nevis (Hon John
Herbert President). They bought a half interest in the vessel 10 Nov 1788.
Butterfield's mate John Smith became master on his illness during the third voyage
under the arrangement. See reference for futher details on the protest filed. (Bermuda
Hist Quarterly, Vol 9, no 4, 1952)
"A list of all ships and vessels that have entered inward at the Naval Office
in the Port of Bermuda from July 1 to September 30, 1786. The "Delight", Thomas
Gilbert master with flour, turpentine, tar, corn, lumber, shingles, and hoops from
Virginia." (Virginia Colonial records database: S.R. 7630; repository: Public Record
Office Board of Trade Class List (BT 1-26), p 38 1784-86)
"List of same outwards from Bermuda, July 1- September 30, 1786. Bermuda
September 30 1786, the "Susanna", Benjamin Ingham master, with rum imported from
St Christopher's to Virginia." (Virginia Colonial records database: S.R. 7630;
repository: Public Record Office Board of Trade Class List (BT 1-26), p 38 1784-86)
"List of same outwards from Bermuda, July 1- September 30, 1786. Bermuda
September 30 1786, the "Tryal", Josiah Williams master with salt and rum
imported from Grenada, to Virginia. "Inwards the "Tryal", Joseph Williams
master with corn, oats, peas, lumber, flour, and pork from Virginia." (Virginia
Colonial records database: S.R. 7630; repository: Public Record Office Board of
Trade Class List (BT 1-26), p 38 1784-86)
"A list of all ships and vessels that have entered inwards to Bermuda
October 1 1786 to December 31 1786 ; Bermuda December 131 1786, The "Ann",
William Richardson master, with corn, bread, flour, and peas from Virginia". (Virginia
Colonial records database: S.R. 7630; repository: Public Record Office Board of
Trade Class List (BT 1-26), p 38 1784-86)
"A list of all ships and vessels that have entered inwards to Bermuda
October 1 1786 to December 31 1786 ; Bermuda December 131 1786, The "Henrietta,',
John Gilbert master with corn, timber, shingles, and planks from Virginia".
"Same outward from Bermuda, October 1 1786- December 31 1786. The
"Henrietta", John Gilbert Jnr master with stones to Norfolk, VA." (Virginia
Colonial records database: S.R. 7630; repository: Public Record Office Board of
Trade Class List (BT 1-26), p 38 1784-86)
"A list of all ships and vessels that have entered inwards to Bermuda
October 1 1786 to December 31 1786 ; Bermuda December 131 1786, The "Friendship"
William Godfrey master, with flour, bread, shingles, staves, and corn from Virginia."
(Virginia Colonial records database: S.R. 7630; repository: Public Record Office
Board of Trade Class List (BT 1-26), p 38 1784-86)
"A list of all ships and vessels that have entered inwards to Bermuda
October 1 1786 to December 31 1786 ; Bermuda December 131 1786, The "Jane",
Thomas Stowe master, with peas, timber, bread, flour, shingles, and staves from
Virginia". "The same outwards from Bermuda October 1 1786- December 31 1786. The
"Jane", Thomas Stowe master, with peas, timber, bread, flour, shingles, and
staves from Virginia." "Same outwards Jan 1 1787- Mar 31 1787; the
"Jane" Thomas Stowe master, with rum and sugar imported...". "Same
inwards Apr 1 1787- 30 Jun 1787 Bermuda, the "Jane" Thomas Stowe master with
corn, shingles, staves and headings to Virginia." "Same outwards Jul 1 1787-30 Sep
1787, The "Jane" Thomas Stowe master, with corn, shingles imported from Virginia
to Barbados." (Virginia Colonial records database: S.R. 7630; repository:
Public Record Office Board of Trade Class List (BT 1-26), p 38 1784-86)
"The same outwards from Bermuda October 1 1786- December 31 1786. The
"Elizabeth", Thomas Gilbert master, with old cannon and ballast to
Virginia." (Virginia Colonial records database: S.R. 7630; repository: Public Record
Office Board of Trade Class List (BT 1-26), p 38 1784-86)
"The same outwards from Bermuda October 1 1786- December 31 1786. The
"Sally", a schooner, Richard Hayward master, with salt to Virginia. The
"Sally", a sloop, Joseph Hayward master in ballast to Virginia." "Same
inwards Jan 1 1787- Mar 31 1787 Bermuda; the "Sally" Richard Hayward master,
with corn, peas, pi__, turpentine, planks, potatoes, bread, and flour from Virginia."
(Virginia Colonial records database: S.R. 7630; repository: Public Record Office
Board of Trade Class List (BT 1-26), p 38 1784-86)
"The same inwards Bermuda Apr 1 1787- 30 Jun 1787 Bermuda
"Dispatch", William Atwood master, with corn and timber from Virginia."
(Virginia Colonial records database: S.R. 7630; repository: Public Record Office
Board of Trade Class List (BT 1-26), p 38 1784-86)
"The same inwards Bermuda Apr 1 1787- 30 Jun 1787 the "Carlton"
Joseph Carlton master with corn, flour, shingles, bread, and sheep from Virginia."
(Virginia Colonial records database: S.R. 7630; repository: Public Record Office
Board of Trade Class List (BT 1-26), p 38 1784-86)
"The same inwards Bermuda Apr 1 1787- 30 Jun 1787 Samuel Rankin master, with
corn and lumber from Virginia." "The same outwards Jul 1 1787- 30 Sep 1787
Bermuda the "Recovery", Samuel Rankin master, with rum from Grenada and Barbados
and whale oil to Virginia." (Virginia Colonial records database: S.R. 7630;
repository: Public Record Office Board of Trade Class List (BT 1-26), p 38 1784-86)
"The same outwards from Bermuda 1 Oct 1787- 31 Dec 1787, the "Dove",
Samuel Briggs master with rum from Barbados to Virginia. (Virginia Colonial records
database: S.R. 7630; repository: Public Record Office Board of Trade Class List (BT
1-26), p 38 1784-86)
Experiment
The sloop "Experiment", master Solomon Vesey, 58 tons with 4 crew, built
in Bermuda 1787 and registered in Bermuda Jul 1787, owned by George Darrell and Josephus
Darrell. She completed a trading voyage from Barbados April 1788 (Custom House Inwards
Book for port of St George's for period 1780-1788). "Ships and vessels outwards from
Bermuda 1 Oct- 31 Dec 1787; The "Experiment", Hubbard Vesey
master with rum and sugar from St Vincent, to Turks Island and Virginia." (Virginia
Colonial records database: S.R. 7630; repository: Public Record Office Board of
Trade Class List (BT 1-26), p 38 1784-86)
The "Arrow" was caused to be "thrown out of our way to the South of the
road to New York and put into the Islands that are called Somers (Bermuda).... The
Governor of St Georges had orders from London to hold passengers to New York.... The
"Arrow" was sent to the Island named after the Turks to take a load of salt, and
we waited until December for a vessel to come into port of St George that would carry us
to New York." (letter of James Fulton, whose son was born on Bermuda).
Edward
Fanny
Betsy
"Poplar", "Edward", "Fanny" included in a
list of vessels that were cleared outwards or entered inwards at Bermuda 1 Jul 1788 - 30
Sep 1788 from Virginia. The "Edward" and "Betsy" cleared outwards
between 1 Oct 1788 and 31 Dec 1788 bound for Virginia. (Virginia Colonial Records Project,
PRO class CO 37/23, Lists and Indexes, Doc 54-56).
Bermuda May 12, 1789. "Whereas a contract was entered upon between
Francis Forbes of Bermuda on the one part and John Browne for Allen
Kirkpatrick both of the same place on the other, whereby a certain schooner
called the Active was bargained for and delivered to said Browne, master for
which Allen Kirkpatrick gave his bond dated 10th day December 1788 and made
payable 10th day May 1789. The schooner was afterwards carried by Browne to
the Bay of Honduras and as the subscriber is informed by Capt John Browne
was delivered by him to Messsrs Ben Garnet & Co..." (BHQ vol 6 no 2 pp
95-96).
c1790's, Badger, was the "Spencer"?; R.N. captured ship, built in Bermuda;
surrendered in 1804. (Royal Naval Ships built in Bermuda , Bermuda Historical Quarterly,
vol 18 no2, 1961 )
c1790's, Gracieuse, R.N. captured ship built in Bermuda; taken in 1804 from the French.
(Royal Naval Ships built in Bermuda , Bermuda Historical Quarterly, vol 18 no2, 1961 )
1791, Samuel Wood was owner of the schooner "Little Eleanor" (unknown
source).
The "Success", owner Capt Lightbourne of Heron Bay, c1792, master Capt
Lightbourne's son, was taken by rebels at Cap Francois.(Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI,
no 4).
In 1793, Capt Darrell Harvey of the privateer "Ann" vied with Hezekiah
Frith in the number of prizes brought in. An account appears in the Gazette of 28 Sep
1793 : "We are assured from undoubtable authority that there were lodged during the
last week in the Court of Vice-Admiralty of these islands original certificates under the
hands of the masters, mates and passengers of the respective vessels, and dated August
tenth, last, whereby it was certified that Darrell Harvey, commander of the
privateer sloop-of-war "Ann", belonging to Bermuda, gave to the distressed
French passengers on board a sloop called the "Polly", commanded by James
Hodge and bound from Cap Francois to Philadelphia, one thousand Spanish milled dollars
and a number of trinkets, although the whole value of the property reserved for himself,
officers, and owners and crew of the "Ann", consisted only of $2756 Spanish
dollars and a parcel of plate since valued at $564.50 and that having captured another
ship called the "Polly" commanded by Edward Easton and bound from Cap
Francois to New York, the said Darrell Harvey... did give the distressed passengers
on board... after they had voluntarily surrendered up their effects, eight negro slaves
and eight hundred Spanish milled dollars, reserving for the use of his owners, himself,
officers and crew only four negor slaves and four thousand five hundred milled dollars.
The "Ann" was taken by the French in January 1794. Capt Darrell Harvey
continued to advertise sales at his store at Heron Bay as well as his wharf at Riddell's
Bay.(Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
The privateer "Harlequin" master Thomas Bonnell Hutchings captured the
brigantine "George and Tracey", master Capt Jacob Jones, while the brig
was on way to Barbados from Liverpool, Nova Scotia witha cargo of fish and lumber in 1794.
Alater notice from Halifax 20 Sep 1794 states "On Sunday last arrived in LIverpool
the brig "George and Tracey" from Bermuda, after having been captured by a
privateer from Norfolk." (CS 1801-7, pg21).
...Also, a petition of Joshua Johnson, praying that the
sum of one thousand one hundred and twenty-three dollars and ten cents may be refunded to
him; it being the excess of tonnage duties paid into the Treasury of the United States, on
account of the brigantine Salome, an American bottom, which was captured by the British,
and condemned in the Court of Vice Admiralty of Bermuda, some time in the month of
December, one thousand seven hundred and ninety-four, and afterwards purchased by the
petitioner: also, that a new register may be granted him for the said brigantine. Ordered,
That the said memorial and petition be referred to the Committee of Commerce and
Manufactures; that they do examine the matter thereof, and report the same, with their
opinion thereupon, to the House. (reference: J. of the House of Rep of the US, Fri Mar 11
1796)
The "Fame", Capt Taylor master, carried a load of staves,
foundered on the reefs off Bermuda and was lost. (Book of Protests Vols 1-4, 1786-1792, Vol 2 1801-1839).
(Life on Old St. David’s Bermuda by E. A. McCallan p. 132n)
"Claude William McCallan, progenitor of the Bermuda McCallans, was shipwrecked on Bermuda's north reefs in 1786. In a letter written in 1880 by Captain William Hubbard Peniston to Claude William McCallan of Smith's Island he says that Mr. McCallan and five others were picked up in a boat by Daniel Seon (the grandfather of Daniel Seon whom I remember as the Prothonotary of the Supreme Court) who was out chub fishing, and landed by him at Bailey's Bay, where he lodged in the Corn House, still standing. All that
he saved from the wreck was his drafting implements.
The sloop Active, master Edward Hansford, from Virginia. On her passage
the 24th of April she picked up the boat and crew of the brig Sally and
Polly, Wm Smith master, of and from Savannah, bound for Bremen, which brig
sunk at sea the 11th of April: the crew were in the greatest distress when
taken up, having been in the boat thirteen days without the allowance of a
little biscuit and only three teaspoonsful of water ..." (Bermuda Royal
Gazette 2 May 1795).
"Imported forty-one puncheons rum per sloop Aurora, John Hatchard master, from St Vincent's. 27 puncheons for Messr F and D Trimingham; 3 for Mr Samuel Adams; 7 for Mr Nath. White; 1 for Mr John Hunt; 1 for Mr Copeland Crisson; 1 for Mr Edward Burrows; 1 for Mr John Hatchard. Dated at the Treasurer's office the 9th day of May 1795. Henry Tucker, Public Treasurer. (Bermuda Gazette 16 May 1795).
The cedar-built sloop "Dasher" (1797), ordered by Pender, was a twin ship
to the "Driver", and the largest ship built in Bermuda to that date. She was
launched from Nathaniel Tynes yard at Brackish Pond (Devonshire) in August 1797.
Upon seeing her in Halifax, Admiral Vanderport, Murray's successor
pronounced her "the finest Sloop of War I ever saw". The sloops were originally
designed as brigs, but changed while building and completed as sloops. The
"Driver" was listed as a Convict ship, Deptford 1826-1838 (broken up 1838). 401
tons, built by Goodrich.
The "Driver, twin/sister of the "Dasher" above, a cedar-built sloop, came
off the stocks at Outerbridge and McCallum yard eight months later. The
Royal Gazette remarked "She is one of those which has been built entirely of Bermuda
cedar, for the particular purpose of scouring the American coast of French privateers, and
it is supposed she will outsail every sloop of war on this station". She was
originally designed as a brig. Dimensions: length 107 ft, beam 29 ft 6in. Crew 80 and
armament 16x24 pounders. She was listed as a coal hunk 1824-1834 and broken up 1834. 401
tons, built by Goodrich 1797 from same plans as Dasher. Royal Gazette 12 Aug 1797:
"Thursday was launched from Mr Nathaniel Tyne's yard His Mjesty's Sloop of
War, "Driver". She is a vessel built on a fast sailing plan and bids fair to
assist in scouring the American coast of French privateers. She is to join Admiral
Vandeput's squadron as soon as fitted." (Bermuda Historical Quarterly Vol 18, no 2,
1961). The HM "Driver", Lieut. James Gordon was at Ireland Is, Bermuda
Mar 1804. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, vol1, no4 1944)
The privateer "Experiment", owners Hezekiah Frith and Daniel Tucker
took a prize the "Bellona". Frith in 1809 sued Tucker, his partner
over the spoils of the ship. Benjamin Dickinson Harvey defended Tucker and Francis
Forbes was solicitor for Frith, who won the case. She was the first Bermuda
ship to be advertised as having a copper bottom, built for Bridger Goodrich, and
carrying fourteen or sixteen guns , launched from Messrs. Brown and McCallan's
shipyards Oct 1793 as a privateer against the French. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no
4).
For sale- "one hogshead rum by Messrs Jennings, Tucker & Co per Schooner Experiment, John Nash, master, for a cruize. (Bermuda Gazette, Sat 18 April 1795).
Fanny and Betsy
c 1790 Hezekiah Frith's sloop "Fanny and Betsy" was one of the most
successful privateers afloat, and when she was taken by the French, he built the
"Experiment" (see above). She was lost 1798. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI,
no 4).
Dispatch
c 1790 The "Dispatch" was a fast-sailing sloop, master Capt Henry Harvey
who lived at Beverly, above Salt Kettle. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
Cholmley
1790's, The British privateer "Cholmley", Capt Cornelius Cayley called in
Bermuda with two prizes loaded with French refugees. May 1793, she put into Bermuda from
Liverpool Tuesday night to repair afterwhich the hurricane cut away her main and mizzen
masts, drove her from her anchors on to the rocks and on Thursday morning sank. (Bermuda
Archives) (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
Gamecock
1791, Captain John Hollis (wife Jane Mason Hollis) sailed a new Bermuda-built cedar schooner "Gamecock" to New Providence. (reference: C Sweet, family history).
Betsy of Beverley
The "Betsy of Beverley", master Nathaniel Kinsman was an American
merchantman taking cargo of coffee and sugar in Martinique, bound for France c1793. Two
packets of letters were carefully concealed aboard. 2 days from Bermuda, the
"Cholmley" (see above) boarded her, found the papers addressed to the Citizen
Minister of France. The "Betsy" was directed to proceed to Bermuda (Bermuda
Gazette 11 May 1793) (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
Carriere
The brig "Carriere", Goodrich, owned by Goodrich and Patrick,
bound for London, was driven on shore at the harbor in Bermuda and bilged May 1793 in a
hurricane. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
Fair Lady
The schooner "Fair Lady" , Lillybridge, cut her mast away in the harbor
in Bermuda in the May 1793 hurricane. CastaingLillybridge master, accompanied by a
black wife and four children of the French Commissioner Sonthonax bound for
Philadelphia. An armed sloop "Hope", Capt Foggo, boarded her and took 7
negros and articles. "limping' into St George's harbour in Sep 1793 after a gale.(Bermuda
Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
Hope
The Bermuda sloop "Hope", Capt Foggo, owners Bridger Goodrich and Henry
Tucker of St George's, agent Bridger Goodrich, boarded the "Fair
Lady" and took 7 negros and articles. "limping' into St George's harbour in Sep
1793 after a gale. She put out to sea again before 16 Oct. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol
XVI, no 4).
Robert
The "Robert" driven from her anchors, ran on the rocks in Bermuda but did not
sustain much damage, in the May 1793 hurricane. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
Sally of Richmond
The sloop "Sally of Richmond" was lying at Salt Kettle in the hurricane of May
1793 and received so much damage as to be condemned. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no
4).
Betty of Philadelphia
The prize "Betty of Philadelphia" was feared lost in the hurricane of May 1793.
(Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
In April 1793 (3 months before Britain declared war on France), The Hon Bridger Goodrich began readying his privateers. Royal Gazette announced the fitting of his "Lady Hammond", a fast sailing schooner, for a three month's cruise against the French. She was lost in 1798. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
Perseverance
The privateer "Perseverance", master Capt Nathaniel Stowe took the
"Endeavor", an American sloop, master Capt Everton and brought it into
Caicos where Stowe and other Bermuda captians searched the ship and finally brought
her into Bermuda for adjudication. Owned by Dan Tucker, she fell to the enemy 1798.
(Bermuda Hist Quarterly, VolXVI, no 4 from CS1801, pg 58; Bermuda Hist Quarterly Vol XVII,
no 2).
Louisa Bridger
The privateer "Louisa Bridger" launched 1793 for privateering against the French
by Bridger Goodrich. With master Butterfield, was at Caicos and boarded the
"Endeavor" (see note under "Perseverance"). She was damaged in the
hurrican of May 1793 in Bermuda, repaired by her new pwners and put to sea. (Bermuda Hist
Quarterly, VolXVI, no 4 from CS1801, pg 58).
Bermudiana
The privateer "Bermudiana" was also present and participated in boarding the
"Endeavor" (see notes under "Perseverance") in Caicos, 11
"drunken" members of her crew sailing the vessel to Bermuda for adjudication.
(Bermuda Hist Quarterly, VolXVI, no 4 from CS1801, pg 58).
Fox
The schooner "Fox" was launched for Bridger Goodrich as a privateer
against the French in 1793. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
Lucy
c 1793, The schooner "Lucy", 16 days from Bermuda, was carried by a privateer to
Bermuda and the cargo condemned (item from Newburysport, MA). (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol
XVI, no 4).
John
The bark "John" recorded in the Book of Protests (Bermuda), a prize c 1794.
(Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
Amelia
The "Amelia" was brought in to St George's by the "Fox" (see above) a
wreck c 1794. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
Duke of York
The "Duke of York", master Robert Spencer Musson and mateCharles
Peniston, owner Bridger & Edward Goodrich and Robert Patrick, in Sep
1794, seized the "Somerset", Capt Christopher Miller on his way from
France to New York, in violation of the Jay Treaty. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no
4).
Retrieve
The privateer "Retrieve", owner Jennings Tucker, Capt Nash, took
the "Sally and Nancy" into Bermuda and condemned her with cargo 1794. (Bermuda
Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
Somerset
See the "Duke of York". Brought into St George's 12 Sep 1794. (Bermuda Hist
Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
Sally and Nancy
The "Sally and Nancy", Capt Elie Solomon master, left Baltimore in Feb
1794 for San Domingo and when nearing its destination was taken by the
"Retrieve" (see above). She was first taken to Turk's Island where the ship was
cleared by the Hon Copeland Stiles, and Capt Nash made to promise to conduct
her to San Domingo. When out of sight of land, Nash destroyed the paper and took
the ship to Bermuda where she was condemned with cargo. (CS 1801/5 pg 45 Archives; Bermuda
Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
States General
The "States General", Capt Dardalier, was captured by a Bermuda privateer
owned by John Jennings c1794. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVI, no 4).
Supply
" Imported 42 puncheons Rum per sloop Supply, Francis Lightbourn, master, from Barbados, to: 15 puncheons rum by Messr Jos. and Wm. Lightbourn; 20 by Mr James Dickinson, 3 by Mess Jennings and Brownlow; 1 by Daniel Tucker Esq.; 1 by Mr Solomon Stowe; 1 by Mr Samuel Smith; 1 by Mr Francis Lightbourn." dated 25 April 1795 Treasurers office. (Bermuda Gazette, no 588, Sat 25 Apr 1795)
Enterprize
"Exported one hogshead of rum by Messrs Jennings, Tuckers and Co. per Schooner Enterprize, Edward Frith, master, for a cruize." dated 25 April 1795 Treasurers office (Bermuda Gazette, no 588, Sat 25 Apr 1795).
ABC
"Imported - forty puncheons rum by Captain Benjamin Basden per sloop ABC, Samuel
Pitt master, from Dominica. (Bermuda Gazette, Sat 18 Apr 1795).
Prince William Henry
"29 puncheons rum by Mr Tho. Masters, per sloop Prince William Henry, himself master, for Georgia." dated 25 April 1795 Treasurers office. (Bermuda Gazette, no 588, Sat 25 Apr 1795)
What You Please
"Bermuda, April 25: This day arrived the sloop What You Please, Copeland Tynes, master, in 12 days from New Providence; in her came passengers Captain Fraser of the 47th Reg and Mr Miller."..(Bermuda Gazette, no 588, Sat 25 Apr 1795).
Calypso
"For Liverpool, the beautiful and fast sailing new Bermuda built ship Calypso, Giles Musson, master, will sail early in June. The Calypso will receive freight on as moderate terms as can be expected. Those who are disposed to ship by her, will please to call on the subscribers at as early date as possible. Spofforth Bascome and Co. Flatts, March 28, 1795."(Bermuda Gazette, no 588, Sat 25 Apr 1795).
Sally and Polly
"Thursday arived here the sloop Active, Edward Hansford, Master, from Virginia. On her passage the 24th of April she picked up the boat and crew of the brig Sally and Polly
, Wm. Smith, Master, of and from Savannah, bound for Bremen, which brig sank at sea the 11th of April, the crew were in the greatest distress
when taken up, having been in the boat thirteen days with the allowance of a little biscuit and only then teaspoonsful of water.."(Bermuda Gazette, Sat 2 May 1795)
Brothers Adventure
Two Friends
William
Ship Hope
"Custom-house, Bermuda:
Entered inward: Brothers Adventure, Stowe from Norfolk; Two Friends, Tinnown, from Savannah; and William, Smith, from St Thomas's.
Cleared outward: Ship Hope, Wise, for New York and New Foundland and Ship Little Andrew, Harriott for Barbados." (Bermuda Gazette, Jul 25 1795).
Two Friends
Advert: "Just imported, in the schooner Two Friends, Captain Pratt, from New York, and to be sold by the subscriber... WB Todd, St George's, June 6 1795 (Bermuda Gazette)
Popler
"Tuesday arived the sloop Popler, Peniston, from Grenada, St Vincent's, and Yurk's Islands. By her we have intellingence from those Islands... (Bermuda Gazette June 1795).
Hezekiah
Advertisement:
"James McDowall is now opening for sale, on the most reasonable terms, for
cash or bills of exchange, a general assortment of merchandise just imported
in the "Hezekiah" from London..." (Bermuda Gazette 18 Jul 1795.)
Advertisement: "Samuel Hurst has imported in the Brig Hezekiah, Capt Frith, from
London, a fashionable assortment of cloths and cashmeres, .. with what goods he
imported by Captain Newbould.. (Bermuda Gazette, Jul 25 1795).
The brig "Hezekiah", master Hezekiah Frith, did not arrive in Bermuda as
expected c 1797. He and the brig were captured by the Spaniards, frigate "Juno".
On release and return he published in the Gazette (Sep 2 1797): "I beg you will
insert the following particulars in your Gazette, of my capture, and the treatment me and
my crew received from the Spaniards in the Havannah, viz; I was taken the 5th of April
last in the Gulf of Florida by the Spanish frigate "Juno" and on the 8th arrived
at the Havannah with the brigs in company. I was treated on board the frigate as well as I
could expect from what I had always heard of the Spaniards but my officers and men were
treated badly on board the frigate. As soon as we came to anchor under Morro Castle the
boats came on board and took all the prisoners off the frigate except myself and Captain Cluness
of the privateer ship "Hundoston" of Jamaica which she took also three days
before me. The captain of the frigate told us we should remain on board the frigate until
he went to sea and he said we should be better treated than on board the prison ship or on
the shore at the fort, as we, to our sorrow, soon after experienced, for, as soon as the
frigate sailed we were put on board the prison ship of 80 guns in the lower gun deck, in a
most filthy place more fit for a hog style then to put up Christians in, with a daily
allowance of three wormy cakes of bread and three fourths of a pound of raw beef per man,
which we could not get dressed unless by hiring anyone to cook it... Had it not been for
the kind asistance of some masters of vessels in the harbour then in the Havannah our
situation must have been more wretched if possible particularly Captain John Brownlow
and Captain Christopher Lusher who both came on board and brought everything we
wanted to eat and drink... " (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVII, no 2).
Hunter
1796, Hunter, 200 tons built by Pender and Messrs Outerbridge and McCallan
for the Royal Navy; lost 1797. Captain Tudor Tucker wrote a letter to the House of
Assembly "being appointed to the command of the "Hunter" sloop of War now
building and to request you'll be pleased to offer the same encouragement to seamen
entering on board her." On a passage from Halifax to NY she ran ashore on the
American coast. ( Bermuda Historical Quarterly, vol 18 no2, 1961 )
Rover
1796, Rover, sloop built by Pender for the Royal Navy; wrecked 1798. The Royal Gazette of
Bermuda Jul 16 1796: "On Wednesday His Majesty's Sloop of War, "Ranger"
(Rover?) was launched from Mr Tyne's yard at Brackish Pond. Command given to Captain Thomas
Hurd and she is to join Admiral' Murray's squadron". An advertisement by Captain McKellar
for a "few brave volunteers who, on repairing on board, will receive every
encouragement beside the following bounty, able seaman L12-10-0, ordinary seaman L6-5-0,
landsman L5." "Due to a desertion from this ship tragedy overtook the family of
Mr Basden, a shipwright at St Georges. While searching his home a loaded pistol in
the knapsack of one of the military search party went off killing Mrs Sarah Basden".
(Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVII, no 2).
Bermuda
1795, Bermuda, built by Goodrich? for the Royal Navy, foundered 1796 on the Bahama Bank.
The Royal Gazette of Bermuda Jan 16 1796- "The Bermuda, sloop of war, Captain Hurd,
will be ready in a short time; she at present wants a few hands. The bounty to them is 37
dollars and a half per man." (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVII, no 2).
Little Andrew
27 June 1795:"yesterday arrived the Sloop "Little Andrew", Harriott
(master), from Barbados". (Bermuda Gazette).
Cleared outward: Ship Hope, Wise, for New York and New Foundland and Ship Little Andrew, Harriott for Barbados." (Bermuda Gazette, Jul 25 1795).
Friendship
1796, Joseph Wood was master of the sloop "Friendship" (unknown
source).
Sally
Joseph Wood, master of the sloop "Sally" c late 1700's. (unknown
source).
Fierce (previously Desperate)
1797, Fierce, 82 tons, was the "Desperate, a schooner, purchased in 1804 by the
Royal Navy, Bermuda built. (Royal Naval Ships built in Bermuda ,Bermuda Historical
Quarterly, vol 18 no2, 1961 )
Ant
1797, Ant, 86 tons, R.N. purchased or captured ship; was the "Lovely
Lass", possibly Bermuda built, (Royal Naval Ships built in Bermuda , Bermuda
Historical Quarterly, vol 18 no2, 1961 )
Everton
The "Everton", owner Jennings Tucker was lost 1798 to the French. (Bermuda
Hist Quarterly, Vol XVII, no 2).
Phoenix
The ship "Phoenix" entered Hamilton Harbour 1798 with a case of yellow fever
aboard which rapidly spread through the western end of the island, most victims being
members of the garrison. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVII, no 2).
Thetis
The "Thetis", captain Edward Lightbourne, brought in the American brig
"Mary", Capt Faulk in 1798, on his return from San Domingo to
Philadelphia (testimony included in text). (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVII, no 2).
Commerce
Paul Paynter, son of Paul (will 1784) and Mary Paynter of Fairfield (now known as Somerwood, Sandy's), was a master mariner and master of the brig "Commerce", condemned by the Vice Admiralty Court for "illicit trade" sometime before his death 1799. (ref: Bermuda Architectural Heritage Series: Sandy's).
Lord Hawkesbury
The privateer "Lord Hawkesbury", owner Jennings Tucker, Captain Nash,
1799 . (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol XVII, no 2).
Agenoria
In the 1790's, Willis Morgan was Captain of the Agenoria,
an 82 ton six gun ship of Jennings, Tucker & Co. (Sandy's: Bermuda's
Architectural Heritage Series).
Sting
Bought by the Royal Navy in 1800, a bermuda-built vessel. (Bermuda Hist Quarterly, Vol
XVII, no 2).
