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Image Not Available for Observations on Some Points of Seamanship
Observations on Some Points of Seamanship
Image Not Available for Observations on Some Points of Seamanship

Observations on Some Points of Seamanship

Author
Printer
Date1824
Object number00028109
NameBook
MediumPaper, ink, leather, boards
DimensionsOverall: 219 x 142 x 21 mm, 0.5 kg
ClassificationsBooks and journals
Credit LineANMM Collection
DescriptionGriffiths' book 'Observations on Some Points of Seamanship; with Practical Hints on Naval Economy' explores the manning and running of Royal Navy vessels. In it Griffiths recommends for the more humane treatment of Royal Navy seamen - an unusual comment from a Captain in a service noted for despotism, impressment and the use of the lash.HistoryThe year 1793 marked the beginning of one of the most famous periods in British naval history, the rise of Revolutionary and Napoleonic France countered by the strategic brilliance of Horatio Nelson. Anselm John Griffiths made Post, along with 30 other Captains in the British Royal Navy, on April 29 1802. The large number of promotions is probably a result of the officers killed or invalided following the Battle of Copenhagen in April 1801, and the disastrous attack on the French invasion fleet at Boulogne in August of the same year. In June 1809, Griffiths, now Captain of the 74 gun first rate ship TOPAZE, commanded a cutting out expedition at Demata, Albania. This highly successful action resulted in the capture of five French vessels, including the armed schooners LA JOUBERT, LA MENTEUR and L'ESPERANCE and the destruction of four others, including two gun boats, with the loss of only one of his crew. According to reports and letters published in The Naval Chronicle, Griffiths was involved in similar successful actions in 1810 and 1812. Following the cessation of hostilities in 1812 and 1813, Griffiths, like many other successful officers, was placed on hold pay. The book 'Observations on Some Points of Seamanship' was written by Griffiths during this semi-retirement from the Royal Navy, with the proceeds from the sale of the book going to the Royal Navy Charitable Society. SignificanceThis classic work on the late 18th and early 19th century Royal Navy provides valuable information on life on board ship, impressment, nautical operations, crewing, and discipline during peace and war.