Joseph Baker (pirate) facts for kids

Joseph Baker was a Canadian pirate who lived a long time ago. He is mostly remembered for a time when he tried to take over a ship called the Eliza in the year 1800. His plan didn't work out, and he faced serious consequences for his actions.

The Story of Joseph Baker

Setting Sail

Not much is known about Joseph Baker's early life. We do know that he joined the crew of a merchant ship named the Eliza. This ship was getting ready to sail from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, all the way to the West Indies.

Taking Over the Ship

Soon after the Eliza left port, Joseph Baker decided to take control of the ship. He wasn't alone; two other crewmen, Peter LaCroix and Joseph Berrouse, joined him. During the night, they attacked the first mate and forced him off the ship. They also hurt the captain, William Wheland, and held him captive.

The three pirates then talked about how they could sell the ship's cargo. However, none of them knew how to steer the ship or navigate it properly. Captain Wheland offered to sail them to a place called the "Spanish Main". He said they could meet other pirates there and sell the cargo.

Captain Wheland's Clever Plan

Baker had promised to let Captain Wheland live if he sailed the ship to a safe place. But Baker secretly told his friends that he planned to kill the captain once they saw land.

Luckily, Captain Wheland was very clever. One day, while LaCroix and Berrouse were below deck checking the cargo, he managed to surprise them. He quickly locked them inside the ship's hold. Then, he quietly snuck up behind Baker, who was steering the ship. Captain Wheland chased Baker up the mainmast, which is the tallest pole on the ship. He then made Baker tie himself to the mast so he couldn't cause any more trouble.

Justice is Served

Captain Wheland then sailed the Eliza to Saint Kitts. There, he handed the mutineers over to the American naval authorities. The three men were then taken back to Philadelphia on a ship called USS Ganges.

In Philadelphia, a United States circuit court held a trial for Joseph Baker, Peter LaCroix, and Joseph Berrouse. The trial took place from April 21 to April 25, 1800. All three prisoners were found guilty of serious crimes. They received the highest punishment for their actions. The punishment was carried out on May 9, 1800.