English ship Essex (1653) facts for kids
The Essex was a powerful warship built a long time ago for England. It was launched in 1653. At first, it was called just Essex. Later, when the king returned to England, it became known as HMS Essex.
This ship was a type of frigate. Frigates were fast and strong warships. The Essex was considered a "third-rate" ship. This meant it was a large warship, but not the very biggest.
Quick facts for kids History |
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 England |
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| Name | HMS Essex |
| Builder | Phineas Pett II, Deptford Dockyard |
| Launched | 1653 |
| Captured | 14 June 1666, by the Dutch |
| Notes |
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 Dutch Republic |
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| Acquired | 14 June 1666 |
| General characteristics | |
| Class and type | Speaker-class frigate |
| Tons burthen | 65271⁄94 (bm) |
| Length | 118 ft (36.0 m) (keel) |
| Beam | 32 ft 3 in (9.8 m) |
| Depth of hold | 14 ft (4.3 m) |
| Propulsion | Sails |
| Sail plan | Full-rigged ship |
| Armament | 48 guns (at launch); 60 guns (1666) |
Building the Essex
The Essex was built by a famous shipbuilder named Phineas Pett II. He worked at the Deptford Dockyard in England. This dockyard was a very important place for building ships for the English navy.
When it was first built, the Essex had 48 guns. These guns were its main weapons. They helped the ship defend itself and attack enemy vessels.
A Change in Government
When the Essex was launched in 1653, England was not ruled by a king. This time was called the Commonwealth of England. It was a period when England was a republic.
In 1660, the king returned to England. This event is known as the Restoration of the English monarchy. After this, the ship officially became part of the Royal Navy. It was then known as HMS Essex. "HMS" stands for "His Majesty's Ship" or "Her Majesty's Ship."
A Big Sea Battle
The HMS Essex took part in a very important naval battle. This battle was called the Four Days Battle. It happened between June 1 and June 4, 1666. This was a huge fight at sea. It involved many ships from England and the Dutch.
By the time of this battle, the Essex had become even more powerful. Its number of guns was increased to 60. This made it a formidable warship.
Captured by the Dutch
The Four Days Battle was very long and fierce. On the last day of the battle, something significant happened to the Essex. It was captured by the Dutch navy. This meant the Dutch took control of the ship.
After its capture, the Essex became part of the Dutch fleet. It was no longer an English ship.
