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HMS Glasgow (1757) facts for kids

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History
Royal Navy EnsignGreat Britain
Name Glasgow
Ordered 13 April 1756
Builder John Reed, Hull
Laid down 5 June 1756
Launched 31 August 1757
Commissioned March 1757
General characteristics
Class and type 20-gun Sixth rate
Tons burthen 451.3 long tons (458.5 t)
Length
  • 109 ft 4 in (33.3 m) (gundeck)
  • 91 ft 2+12 in (27.8 m) (keel)
Beam 30 ft 6 in (9.3 m)
Depth of hold 9 ft 7+12 in (2.9 m)
Complement 160 officers and men
Armament 20 × 9-pounder guns

HMS Glasgow was a British warship, a 20-gun sixth-rate ship. This means it was a smaller type of warship with 20 cannons. It was part of the Royal Navy, which is the navy of Great Britain. The ship was launched in 1757 and played a role in the American Revolutionary War.

HMS Glasgow: A Ship's Story

HMS Glasgow was a busy ship during its time. It was built in Hull, England, and was ready for duty in 1757. Its main job was to protect British interests and fight in battles when needed. The ship carried 160 officers and sailors.

Early Adventures

In December 1774, while sailing near Cohasset, Massachusetts, HMS Glasgow accidentally hit some rocks. The crew worked to get the ship free, and it was able to reach Boston a few days later for repairs. After this incident, the ship's captain, William Maltby, was replaced by Tyringham Howe.

The Famous Battle

HMS Glasgow is most famous for a big fight on April 6, 1776. This battle happened off Block Island. Glasgow was sailing alone when it met a group of six ships from the Continental Navy. The Continental Navy was the navy of the American colonies, which were fighting for their independence from Britain.

Against Six Ships

Even though Glasgow was greatly outnumbered, it fought bravely. The battle was intense, but Glasgow managed to escape without being captured or destroyed. This was a remarkable achievement for a single ship against such a large force.

Later Voyages

After its famous escape, HMS Glasgow continued its duties. In April 1778, it captured another ship, which is called a "prize" in naval terms. However, this captured ship soon started leaking and sank.

Final Days

Later, Glasgow was in the Caribbean Sea. It chased two large American frigates, which are bigger warships. Sadly, the ship's journey ended in 1779. While in Montego Bay, Jamaica, HMS Glasgow was accidentally burned. This brought an end to its service in the Royal Navy.

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