Fowey Gallants facts for kids

The Fowey Gallants or the Gallants of Fowey were a group of sailors from the port of Fowey, in Cornwall, who acted as both privateers and pirates. They were active during the 14th and 15th centuries, a time when England and France were often at war, known as the Hundred Years' War.

The Fowey Gallants: Pirates or Privateers?

The Fowey Gallants were known for their daring sea adventures. Sometimes they were acting with official permission, and other times they were simply taking ships for their own gain. This makes it tricky to call them just one thing!

What is a Privateer?

Imagine a country is at war. A privateer is like a private ship owner or captain who gets a special license from their government. This license allows them to attack and capture enemy ships. It's a bit like a government hiring private contractors to help in a war. Whatever they captured, often called "prizes," they would share with the government. This was a way for countries to boost their navy and economy without spending too much money.

Why Fowey Became a Pirate Hub

The port of Fowey was very important during the Hundred Years' War. It helped England during big events like the Siege of Calais and the Battle of Agincourt. Because of their help, the English king gave Fowey special permission, or "licences," to attack and capture French ships in the English Channel.

This activity became very profitable for Fowey. Many French ships, and even some English ones, were captured. Over time, these actions became less about helping the war effort and more about making money. The port became known for its less-than-honest dealings.

Famous Gallants and Their Adventures

Many brave, and sometimes sneaky, sailors were part of the Fowey Gallants.

• Mark Mixtow was a licensed privateer. He had a small fleet of three ships, showing how organized some of these operations could be.
• Hankyn Seelander was a Dutch pirate. In 1442, even he was given a privateer's license by The Crown (the English king and government). His job was to patrol the coast and protect it, but he was also known for his pirating past.
• Other notable figures included John Trevelyn, Thomas Tregarthen, Nicholas Carminow, and Sir Hugh Courtenay, who owned a large estate called Boconnoc.
• John Wilcock was particularly successful. In 1469, his ship, the Barbara, managed to capture fifteen ships in just two weeks!

The End of the Gallants

Even after peace was made with France, the piracy from Fowey continued. This became a problem for the English king, Edward IV. He wanted to stop the illegal activities.

King Edward IV asked the "willing men from Dartmouth" to help put an end to the piracy. Dartmouth was another important port nearby. A meeting was set up in Lostwithiel. While the Fowey Gallants were away at this meeting, their ships were seized. The large chain that protected Fowey's harbour was also removed, making it harder for them to operate. Several of the pirates faced serious consequences for their actions. This marked the end of the Fowey Gallants' reign of terror on the seas.