HMS Melville (1817) facts for kids
HMS Melville guarding Graham Island
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Quick facts for kids History |
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 United Kingdom |
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| Name | HMS Melville |
| Ordered | 6 September 1813 |
| Builder | Bombay Dockyard |
| Laid down | July 1815 |
| Launched | 17 February 1817 |
| Fate | Sold, 1873 |
| General characteristics | |
| Class and type | Black Prince-class ship of the line |
| Tons burthen | 1768 bm |
| Length | 176 ft (54 m) (gundeck) |
| Beam | 47 ft 6 in (14.48 m) |
| Depth of hold | 21 ft (6.4 m) |
| Propulsion | Sails |
| Sail plan | Full-rigged ship |
| Armament |
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HMS Melville was a large warship of the Royal Navy. She was a "74-gun third rate ship of the line." This means she was a powerful sailing ship with 74 cannons on her decks. She was built at the Bombay Dockyard and launched on 17 February 1817.
Contents
A Ship's Journey: Early Service
From 1836 to 1837, HMS Melville sailed in North America and the West Indies. During this time, she was the main ship for Vice-Admiral Peter Halkett. Captain Peter John Douglas was in charge of the ship.
Adventures in the East
Later, from 1837 to 1841, HMS Melville became the flagship for Rear-Admiral George Elliot. Captain Richard Saunders Dundas commanded her. The ship traveled to the Cape of Good Hope and the East Indies.
The First Opium War
During this period, HMS Melville was involved in the First Opium War with China. This was a conflict between Great Britain and China. The ship played a role in important events during this war.
Battles and Challenges
Many brave sailors and Royal Marines served on HMS Melville during the Opium War. Some of them were injured or lost their lives in battles. For example, 16 sailors and four marines were killed during the capture of Bocca Tigris and battles along the Pearl River near Canton in 1841.
A New Purpose
In 1857, HMS Melville was changed into a hospital ship. This meant she was used to care for sick or injured sailors. She served in this new role for many years.
End of Service
HMS Melville was sold in 1873 in Hong Kong. The money from her sale, HK$35,000, was used to buy the Royal Naval Hospital at Mount Shadwell. This hospital continued to help naval personnel.
