HMS Scarborough (1812) facts for kids
![]() Scarborough
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Quick facts for kids History |
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Name | HMS Scarborough |
Ordered | 13 July 1807 |
Builder | Graham, Harwich |
Laid down | January 1808 |
Launched | 29 March 1812 |
Fate | Sold, 1836 |
General characteristics | |
Class and type | Vengeur-class ship of the line |
Tons burthen | 1745 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 Scarborough was a powerful sailing warship from a long time ago. It was part of the Royal Navy, which is the navy of the United Kingdom. This ship had 74 guns and was built in 1812. It was a type of ship called a "ship of the line," meaning it was strong enough to fight in the main battle line during naval wars.
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Discovering HMS Scarborough
The HMS Scarborough was a very important ship in its time. It was built in a place called Harwich, in England. The ship was launched into the water on March 29, 1812. This vessel was designed to be a strong and reliable warship for the Royal Navy.
What Was a Ship of the Line?
A "ship of the line" was a large, powerful warship. These ships were designed to fight in a battle line, side by side with other similar ships. They were the main fighting ships of navies during the age of sail. The Scarborough was a "third-rate" ship. This meant it carried between 64 and 80 guns. Its 74 guns made it a formidable vessel.
The Royal Navy was one of the most powerful navies in the world during the 1800s. Ships like the HMS Scarborough helped protect the country. They also guarded its trade routes across the oceans. Building such a ship was a huge project. It took many skilled workers, like shipwrights and carpenters, several years to complete. The Scarborough was ordered in 1807 and finally launched in 1812.
Life Aboard a Warship
Life on a ship like the Scarborough was very different from life today. Hundreds of sailors lived and worked together in a small space. Their main job was to operate the ship and its many guns. The Scarborough had 74 cannons of different sizes. The largest ones, called 32-pounders, were on the lowest gun deck. Smaller cannons and special short-range guns called carronades were on the upper decks. These guns were essential for defending the ship and attacking enemies. Sailors had to be very disciplined and work as a team to load and fire these heavy weapons.
The End of Its Service
After serving the Royal Navy for many years, the HMS Scarborough was eventually sold in 1836. This was a common practice for older warships. They were sold when they were no longer needed or when newer, more advanced ships were built. Even though its active service ended, the Scarborough played its part in the history of the Royal Navy.