In August 1779, more than four years after the start of the American War of Independence, a squadron of seven ships, under the command of John Paul Jones on the Bonhomme Richard, left the French port of Lorient to cruise for ‘prizes’ off the British Coast. Its task was to bring the Revolutionary War to Europe.
In September 1779, a convoy of 77 merchant ships carrying supplies for the Royal Navy departed the Danish port of Elsinor, escorted by HMS Serapis, a brand new frigate, under the command of Captain Richard Pearson, and The Countess of Scarborough, an armed escort, under Captain Richard Piercy.
The two fleets came head-to-head off the Yorkshire Coast and the ensuing ‘Battle of Flamborough Head’ became one of the most celebrated battles in US Naval History.
This talk will provide a full historical context, looking at the political and social background and key protagonists as well as the tactics of the battle itself. As we approach its 250th Anniversary, James asks the question: who actually won the Battle of Flamborough Head?
Date: Wednesday 18 October 2023
Time: 19:00
Place: CA House or, for the webinar broadcast via Zoom, your own home or boat
Booking (to attend at CA House): To book places on any lecture, and to indicate whether you’ll be ordering food, click on [Book venue]. Please pay in advance on the website, or by contactless on the door. Any problems with the booking system, call or email Mandie on 020 7537 2828/reception@theca.org.uk
Tickets (to attend at CA House): Members £4, non-members £7.
Booking (to join the webinar via Zoom): The webinar broadcast is open to members, including Crewing Service members, only. You will need to login to see the details below.
If you would like to join the webinar broadcast, please register via Zoom here. There will be no charge for viewing online.
John Paul-Jones & the battle of Flamborough Head
Image: Wikimedia/Kalki