HMS HALIFAX (1756)

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IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #


	Name: HMS Halifax Other Names: None Type: Armed Schooner (British naval vessel) Built: 1756, Oswego, New York Builder: British Navy Final Resting Place: Near Oswego, New York, Lake Ontario Official Number: None (not applicable for vessels of this period)

VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #

The HMS Halifax was an armed schooner constructed by the British Navy in 1756. Schooners like the HMS Halifax were typically small, agile vessels designed for speed and maneuverability, making them ideal for patrol and reconnaissance missions. These vessels were armed and used by the British Navy to maintain control over strategic waterways, particularly during the French and Indian War.

HISTORY #

The HMS Halifax was built in 1756 at the British naval station in Oswego, New York. This vessel was part of the British efforts to establish and maintain a naval presence on the Great Lakes, particularly on Lake Ontario, which was a critical region during the French and Indian War. The schooner was designed to help the British Navy project power across the lake and support military operations in the region.

FINAL DISPOSITION #

In 1756, the HMS Halifax was involved in a significant naval engagement near Oswego, New York, against the French Great Lakes fleet. This engagement was part of a broader conflict between British and French forces for control over the Great Lakes and surrounding territories.

During this battle, the HMS Halifax, along with several other British vessels—including the HMS London, HMS Vigilant, HMS Oswego, HMS Ontario, and HMS George—was captured by French forces led by Montcalm. After its capture, the French forces burned the HMS Halifax to prevent its recapture or reuse by the British.

LOSS OF LIFE #

The historical records do not specify any loss of life associated with the capture and destruction of the HMS Halifax. Details regarding casualties from this engagement are not available.

CARGO #

At the time of its loss, the HMS Halifax was not carrying any cargo, as it was engaged in a military operation.

LOCATED BY & DATE #

There is no specific modern record of the wreck’s discovery or identification, so no individuals or dates are associated with locating the remains of the HMS Halifax.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #

There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to the wreck of the HMS Halifax.

The HMS Halifax was one of several British vessels lost in the same engagement, including:

HMS London
HMS Vigilant
HMS Oswego
HMS Ontario
HMS George

These vessels were all captured and subsequently destroyed by the French forces under Montcalm, marking a significant setback for the British in their efforts to control the Great Lakes.