HMS Linnet (1814) facts for kids
![]() Linnet
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Name | HMS Linnet |
Builder | Isle de Noix, Lake Champlain |
Launched | April 1814 |
Captured | 11 September 1814 |
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Name | USS Linnet |
Acquired | By capture, 11 September 1814 |
Fate | Sold 1825 |
General characteristics | |
Class and type | 16-gun brig-sloop |
Tons burthen | 350 (bm) |
Length | 82 ft 6 in (25.1 m) |
Beam | 27 ft (8.2 m) |
Depth of hold | 6 ft 8 in (2.0 m) |
Propulsion | Sails |
Sail plan | Brig |
Complement | 99 |
Armament | 16 x 12-pounder guns |
HMS Linnet was a British warship built in 1814. She was a 16-gun brig, a type of sailing ship. The Royal Navy built her in Canada, near Lake Champlain. Her original name was Niagara, but she was renamed Linnet.
Commander Daniel Pring led the Linnet. She played a part in the War of 1812 on Lake Champlain. In 1814, American forces captured her during the Battle of Lake Champlain. The Americans then used her as a ship, but she never sailed again. Linnet was eventually sold in 1825.
Contents
Linnet in Battle
Linnet joined Captain George Downie's group of ships. They took part in the Battle of Lake Champlain on September 11, 1814. This battle was a major event during the War of 1812.
Facing the Eagle
As Linnet sailed into the bay, she fought against an American ship. This ship was the brig Eagle, which had 18 guns. Linnet caused a lot of damage to the Eagle.
Turning the Tide
However, the American commander, Commodore Thomas Macdonough, had a plan. His main ship, the Saratoga, moved into position. The Saratoga then fired along the side of Linnet. This type of attack is called "raking" and is very damaging.
Linnet's Capture
Because of the heavy damage, Linnet had to surrender. This is called "striking the colors." During the battle, 10 of Linnet's crew were killed. Another 15 crew members were wounded.
What Happened Next
After the battle, the Americans fixed Linnet. They added her to the U.S. Navy and called her USS Linnet.
Placed in Reserve
However, the War of 1812 ended soon after. Because of this, the USS Linnet was not needed for active duty. She was placed in "ordinary" at Whitehall, New York. This means she was kept in a reserve fleet, ready if needed, but not actively sailing.
Final Sale
USS Linnet stayed in reserve for several years. In 1825, the ship was sold.