HMS Dreadnought (1660) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids History |
|
|---|---|
 England |
|
| Name | Torrington |
| Ordered | December 1652 |
| Builder | Henry Johnson, Blackwall Yard |
| Launched | early 1654 |
| Renamed | Dreadnought, 1660 |
| Fate | Foundered October 1690 |
| General characteristics | |
| Class and type | Speaker-class frigate |
| Tons burthen | 73438⁄94 (bm) |
| Length | 116 ft 8 in (35.6 m) (keel) |
| Beam | 34 ft 6 in (10.5 m) |
| Depth of hold | 14 ft 2 in (4.3 m) |
| Sail plan | Full-rigged ship |
| Armament | 52 guns (at launch); 62 guns (1677) |
HMS Dreadnought was a powerful warship. It was first called Torrington and built for the navy of the Commonwealth of England. This was the government that ruled England before the kings returned.
It was a 52-gun third-rate ship of the line. This means it was a large warship with many cannons. It served the Royal Navy from 1660 until 1690.
Building the Ship
The ship was launched in early 1654. It was built by a shipwright named Henry Johnson. His shipyard was located at Blackwall Yard in London.
The ship was named Torrington to celebrate a big victory. This victory happened at the Battle of Torrington in 1646. This battle was important during the English Civil War.
A New Name
In 1660, a big change happened in England. The king returned to power. This event is known as the Stuart Restoration.
Because of this, many things were renamed. The ship Torrington was given a new name. It became known as Dreadnought.
Ship's Armament
When Dreadnought was first launched, it had 52 guns. These were cannons used for fighting other ships.
By the year 1677, the ship had been made even stronger. Its number of guns was increased. It then carried 62 powerful cannons.
A Busy Career
Dreadnought had a very active life at sea. It took part in two major conflicts. These were the Second Dutch War and the Third Dutch War.
These wars were fought between England and the Dutch Republic. They were important naval battles of that time.
The End of the Ship
After many years of service, Dreadnought met its end. In October 1690, the ship foundered at sea.
To "founder" means that a ship fills with water and sinks. This happened while the ship was out on the ocean.
