Lawrence (schooner) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids History |
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|---|---|
 Nova Scotia |
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| Name | Lawrence |
| Namesake | Charles Lawrence |
| Owner | Malachy Salter and Robert Saunderson |
| Port of registry | Halifax, Nova Scotia |
| Launched | 16 November 1756 |
| General characteristics | |
| Type | Privateer Schooner |
| Tons burthen | 100 bm |
| Sail plan | schooner |
| Crew | 100 |
| Armament | 14 carriage guns, 4-pounders, 24 swivel guns, small arms, ammunition for six months cruise |
The Lawrence was a special kind of sailing ship called a schooner. It was the very first "privateer" ship to get a license from Halifax, Nova Scotia. A privateer was a private ship that was allowed by the government to attack enemy ships during wartime. The Lawrence was launched on November 16, 1756, during a big conflict known as the French and Indian War.
The ship was commanded by Captain Joseph Rouse. Robison Fort was the first lieutenant, and Andrew Gardner was the mate. Gardner kept a detailed logbook for six months as the ship sailed from Halifax to Bermuda. This logbook is very important because it's one of the few that still exists from that time period. The ship was named after Charles Lawrence, who was the Governor of Nova Scotia.
The French and Indian War
The French and Indian War (1754–1763) was a major conflict in North America. It was part of a larger global war called the Seven Years' War. This war was fought between Great Britain and France. Both sides wanted control over land and resources in North America. Many Native American tribes also joined the fight, siding with either the British or the French.
Role of Privateers
Privateers like the Lawrence played a big role in this war. They were like legal pirates, but they worked for their government. Their job was to capture enemy merchant ships. This would disrupt the enemy's trade and supply lines. The goods and ships they captured were often sold, and the money was shared among the crew and the ship's owners. This made privateering a risky but potentially very profitable business.
Lawrence in Battle
The Lawrence took part in a very important battle in 1759. This was the Battle of the Plains of Abraham, fought near Quebec City. On April 21, the Lawrence was badly damaged. It was the only ship available to General James Murray at that time.
General Murray sent the schooner eastward. Its mission was to hurry along Lord Colville's fleet. This fleet was needed to arrive in the river quickly to help with the battle. The Lawrence played a small but important part in this major historical event.
