HMS LONDON (1756)

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IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #

Name: HMS London
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)

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VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION #

The HMS London was an armed schooner constructed by the British Navy in 1756. As a naval vessel, it was designed for use in the military conflicts of the mid-18th century, specifically during the French and Indian War. Schooners like the HMS London were typically small, fast, and agile, making them suitable for patrols, reconnaissance, and engagements with enemy vessels. While specific dimensions and tonnage are not provided, it is understood that the vessel was similar in purpose to other armed schooners of the era.

HISTORY #

The HMS London was built in 1756 at the British naval station in Oswego, New York. It was one of several vessels constructed by the British as part of their efforts to control the strategic waterways of the Great Lakes during the French and Indian War. The vessel was intended to bolster British naval presence on Lake Ontario, providing both defense and offensive capabilities against French forces.

FINAL DISPOSITION #

In 1756, during a significant naval engagement near Oswego, New York, the HMS London was captured by French forces led by the military officer Montcalm. This battle was a critical moment in the French and Indian War, as the French sought to dismantle British control over the Great Lakes region.

Following its capture, the HMS London was burned by the French, along with several other British vessels involved in the engagement, including the HMS Vigilant, HMS Oswego, HMS Ontario, HMS George, and HMS Halifax. The destruction of these ships marked a severe blow to the British naval presence on Lake Ontario.

LOSS OF LIFE #

The details regarding any loss of life associated with the capture and burning of the HMS London are not specified in the available records.

CARGO #

At the time of its loss, the HMS London 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 London.

NOTMARs & ADVISORIES #

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

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

HMS Oswego
HMS Ontario
HMS George
HMS Vigilant
HMS Halifax

These vessels were all captured and subsequently destroyed by the French forces under Montcalm, highlighting the intensity of the naval conflict on Lake Ontario during this period.