HMS Monarch (1765) facts for kids
HMS Monarch in the lead, forcing the Passage of the Sound, 30 March 1801, prior to the Battle of Copenhagen
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Quick facts for kids History |
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 Great Britain |
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| Name | HMS Monarch |
| Ordered | 22 November 1760 |
| Builder | Deptford Dockyard |
| Launched | 20 July 1765 |
| Fate | Broken up, 1813 |
| Notes |
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| General characteristics | |
| Class and type | Ramillies-class ship of the line |
| Tons burthen | 1612 bm |
| Length | 168 ft 6 in (51.36 m) (gundeck) |
| Beam | 46 ft 9 in (14.25 m) |
| Depth of hold | 19 ft 9 in (6.02 m) |
| Propulsion | Sails |
| Sail plan | Full-rigged ship |
| Armament |
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HMS Monarch was a powerful warship of the British Royal Navy. It was a "74-gun ship of the line," meaning it carried 74 cannons and was one of the biggest warships of its time. Built by Adam Hayes, it was launched on July 20, 1765, at Deptford Dockyard. This ship played a big role in many important naval battles.
Contents
A Ship's Life: Service History
This large ship needed about 550 sailors to operate it. Many famous commanders led HMS Monarch during its active years.
Early Battles and Adventures
Monarch had a very busy career, fighting in its first battle in 1778. This was the First Battle of Ushant. Its second major fight was in 1780 at Cape St. Vincent, led by Admiral Rodney.
In 1781, Monarch was part of Admiral Graves' fleet. It fought bravely at the Battle of the Chesapeake. Early in 1782, the ship was involved in several actions. These included the Capture of Sint Eustatius, the Battle of Saint Kitts, and the Battle of the Saintes. It also fought in the Battle of the Mona Passage.
Capturing the Cape of Good Hope
In January 1795, Monarch was in Plymouth, England. At this time, war broke out between Britain and the Netherlands. Monarch helped to seize Dutch ships that were in port.
Later in 1795, Monarch joined a small fleet led by Admiral George Elphinstone. This fleet captured the Cape of Good Hope from the Dutch. This event was known as the Battle of Muizenberg.
Heroic Actions and High Casualties
In 1797, Monarch was the main ship for Vice Admiral Richard Onslow. This was during the Battle of Camperdown, a major naval victory for the British. Captain Edward O'Bryen was in command of the ship at this time.
In 1801, Monarch was part of Admiral Nelson's fleet. They fought in the Battle of Copenhagen. During this battle, Monarch's captain, James Robert Mosse, was killed early on. Lieutenant John Yelland took over command. Monarch suffered greatly in this battle. Over 200 sailors were injured or killed, with 55 deaths. This was the highest number of casualties for any ship in that battle.
Final Years and Fate
In 1807, Monarch had another important mission. It helped to protect the Portuguese royal family. They were fleeing from Portugal to Brazil to escape danger.
After a long and active career, HMS Monarch was taken apart in 1813.
See also
Images for kids
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Monarch during Sir Samuel Hood’s engagement with the French Squadron off Rochefort, on 25 September 1806, during which Hood injured and lost his arm
