HMS Caledonia (1807) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids History
United Kingdom
Name	HMS Caledonia
Namesake	Caledonia, Latin name for Scotland
Builder	Amherstburg Royal Naval Dockyard
Launched	1807
Fate	Captured, 9 October 1812
General characteristics
Type	Brig
Propulsion	Sail
Notes	Provincial Marine vessel

Caledonia was a brig (a type of sailing ship) that belonged to the British. It sailed on the Great Lakes during the War of 1812. This war was fought between the United States and Great Britain, along with their allies.

Caledonia: A British Warship

Caledonia was built in 1807 in Malden, which was then part of Upper Canada. It was originally made for the North West Company. This company was involved in the fur trade.

Early Service in the War of 1812

When the War of 1812 began, the Caledonia was taken over by the Provincial Marine. This was a naval force that protected British interests on the Great Lakes. The ship played an important part in the Siege of Fort Mackinac. It helped by carrying troops and cannons to the island.

Capture of Caledonia

On October 9, 1812, Caledonia was anchored near Fort Erie. This fort was located in the upper part of the Niagara River. Another ship, Detroit, was anchored nearby. Both ships had been moving troops and supplies. Caledonia also carried a valuable cargo of furs.

American Attack and Capture

An American boat team, led by Lieutenant Jesse Elliott, attacked the two ships. They successfully captured both Caledonia and Detroit. Caledonia was taken to a navy yard at Black Rock.

Fate of Detroit

The ship Detroit was swept away by the river's current. It had to drop anchor within reach of British cannons. After a fight with artillery, Detroit's anchor cable was cut. The ship then drifted down the river and got stuck on Squaw Island. Today, this island is known as Unity Island. Detroit was later abandoned and set on fire.

Caledonia Joins the American Fleet

After its capture, Caledonia became part of the American navy. It was renamed USS Caledonia.