|
Historical Time Line
1700 - 1724
By the early 18th century the role of the Marines had
been resolved.
They were totally under the control of the Admiralty.
Their roles consisted of:
1. Guard and sentry duties.
2. The maintenance of discipline and enforcement of
regulations aboard ship.
3. Marines quarters aboard ship were kept separate
from the seamen.
4. They stood guard when punishment was being carried
out.
5. At friendly ports they performed guard duties,
maintained order and ensured that sailors did not desert their ship.
6. To Guard Garrison captured fortresses until
relieved by the infantry.
7. To act as sharpshooters and gunners on board ship.
8. To act as boarding parties to seize ships and
assist in sailing captured ships to friendly ports.
9. When occasion arose to fight in land battles.
1702. Wednesday 8th
March. With the death of King William III. His policy was adopted by his
successor Queen Anne, who entered into treaties of alliance with the Emperor of
Germany, the State’s General of the United Provinces, and other Princes and
Potentates, for preserving the liberty and balance of power in Europe, and for
defeating the ambitious views of France. The measures for increasing the
efficiency of the fleet had occasioned the suggestion of raising Corps of
Marines, capable of acting on land as well as at sea. Several Regiments of the
regular army were appointed to serve as Marines, and six additional Regiments
were especially raised for that service.
1702. Monday 13th March. Sir John Norris arrived at Port Mahon as commander-in-chief of the naval force; and after some arrangements for transporting troops to attack the enemy in various quarters, he reached Barcelona on the 18th of June. An expedition was then directed against Cette, in the province of Languedoc, where the troops and Marines were landed on the 13th of July. After a feeble resistance the place, with a fort mounting eighteen pieces of cannon, surrendered on the same day. Major-general Seissau, with the regiment of Stanhope, advanced towards Adge, which town was delivered up without resistance. The island of Cette was shortly afterwards recovered by the French army, but our troops had previously been withdrawn.
In the early part of this year it was resolved to make an attempt on the town of Quebec, the French capital of Canada; for which service Sir Hovenden Walker and General Hill were appointed commanders-in-chief of their respective forces. The fleet reached Nantasket, near Boston, on the 24th of June; and having prepared the provincial corps, and withdrawn the Marines who garrisoned Annapolis Royal since its surrender, they sailed for the object of their destination on the 30th of July and reached the Bird Islands on the 14th of August. After many fruitless attempts to ascend the river, with the loss of eight transports, in which 900 seamen and soldiers perished, and the fleet having been in imminent danger, a council of war determined "that by reason of the ignorance of the pilots, and also the uncertainty and rapidity of the currents, it was wholly impracticable to go up the river St. Lawrence with the men-of-war and transports as far as Quebec." It was therefore determined to abandon all further proceedings, and after leaving' the provincial auxiliaries on their own coast, the expedition returned to England on the 9th of October. (Volume 1 Historical Records of the Royal Marine Forces by Paul Harris Nicolas Lieut. Royal Marines.)
1702. Tuesday 14th
March. A Royal Warrant was issued, authorising Colonel George Villiers to raise
a Regiment of Marines, which was to consist of twelve companies, of two
Sergeants, three Corporals, two Drummers, and fifty-nine private soldiers each,
with an additional Sergeant to the Grenadier Company.
1702. Monday 20th March. Sir John Jennings assumed the command of the British fleet at Barcelona on the 20th of March. About this period, Joseph, Emperor of Germany died, and Charles III. of Spain, on succeeding to the imperial dignity, embarked on board the British fleet, which forthwith proceeded to Italy. (Volume 1 Historical Records of the Royal Marine Forces by Paul Harris Nicolas Lieut. Royal Marines.
1702. Thursday 4th May. War was proclaimed against France and Spain; and the French king having advanced his grandson the Duke of Anjou to the vacant Spanish monarchy, Queen Anne, who had ascended the British throne, espoused the claims of the Archduke of Austria upon the Spanish sovereignty, and resolved upon sending a powerful fleet into the Mediterranean.
One of the first acts of her reign was a revival of the corps of Marines. Her Majesty's order for levying this body was issued on the 1st of June 1 702, and was to this effect " Our pleasure is, that six regiments of Marines, and six other regiments for sea service, do commence and take place from the respective times of raising. And our further pleasure is, that the order given by our dearest brother, the late King, deceased, and such orders as are or shall be given by us, touching the pay or entertainment of our said forces, or any of them, or any charges thereunto belonging, shall be duly complied with; and that no new charge be added to this establishment without being communicated to our High Treasurer, or Commissioners of our treasury for the time being."
1702. Her Majesty was pleased to establish six marine regiments ; they were put upon a different footing from those which were thought necessary at the beginning, but discontinued before the close, of the last war ; for as the soldiers were formerly discharged from the regiments and entered on the ships' books as foremast men, when they had qualified themselves to serve as such, and money allowed to the officers to procure others in their room, so now, when any of the marine soldiers died, or were otherwise missing, the companies were only made full by levy-money to the officers, without any regard to their being a nursery for seamen, which was one of the principal motives for the first raising of such a body of men. The charge of these regiments was defrayed by the navy, (as being part of the men voted by Parliament for sea service,) and money was issued out from time to time by the treasurer, by warrants from the Lord High Treasurer, to a person particularly appointed to receive and pay the same. The following articles for the government and conduct of these regiments were framed and adopted by Her Majesty in Council on the 12th of July 1702.
They were to be employed on board Her Majesty's ships as there should be occasion, and quartered at, or as near as might be, to the dock-yards when on shore, to guard them from embezzlements, or any attempts of an enemy. In all matters re- lating to their subsistence and clearings, when on board and on shore, they were to be paid in like manner as the land forces, and the same deductions to be made from them for clothing, and one day's pay, once a-year, from each officer and soldier for the hospital. They were to be allowed an equal proportion of provisions with the seamen, without any deductions from their pay for the same; and to have the same allowance for short provisions as the seamen, to be paid to themselves or their assigns.
Such regiments, or parts of them, as should be on shore, were to be mustered by a commissary or commissaries in the same manner as the land forces ; excepting in this case, that they the said commissaries were obliged to allow at each muster on his or their rolls all such officers and soldiers as should appear to him or them, by authentic vouchers or certificates, to be put on board any of Her Majesty's ships or vessels ; and that such part of the aforesaid regiments as should be at sea, might be paid while they were so. It was directed, that the commanding marine officer with them should, every two months, return to the commissary-general of the musters a perfect list of all the officers and soldiers on board each ship, signed by himself, and all the marine officers, expressing the times of entry, death, and discharge of each man; that so the commissary might compare the said lists with the monthly books sent to the Navyoffice, and allow such of the officers and soldiers as should appear to him fit to be so allowed.
To prevent confusion, not less than fifteen marine soldiers, and with them an officer, were to be put on board of a ship at any one time, unless in cases of necessity. A particular paymaster was appointed, with power to solicit the arrears of the regiments, and to receive all sums of money from the Treasurer of the Navy; and immediately upon the receipt thereof, to issue the same to the respective colonels or their agents. He was also required diligently and carefully to adjust all accounts relating to the regiments, according to such muster-rolls as should be delivered to him by the commissary or commissaries; and those muster-rolls were to be allowed of, as sufficient vouchers for the charges in the accounts, and for making out debentures and warrants.
To enable the aforesaid paymaster to keep an office, and to defray the charge thereof, and of clerks and other contingencies, he was allowed sixpence in the pound, pursuant to the subscription of the respective colonels, which he had power to deduct out of all moneys issued to him, in the same manner as the poundage was deducted from the land forces. For rendering such parts of the regiments as should be on shore the more useful, Her Majesty declared it should be left to herself, or the High Admiral, to dispose of them at such places nearest to the several dock-yards as might be judged most convenient. And since there might be occasion for labourers to despatch necessary works, Her Majesty empowered her High Admiral, or the commissioners for executing the office, to cause to be employed in the aforesaid dock-yards so many of the marine soldiers as might be judged fitting, and to make them such daily allowance for the same, besides their ordinary pay, as should seem reasonable.
Brigadier-general Seymour was appointed by the Lord High Admiral to superintend the establishment. His particular duties were, to observe that the men were comfortably quartered that the officers were attentive in their respective departments; and that the marine soldiers, when embarked on board of ship, were supplied with proper sea-clothes, and other suitable necessaries. A number of independent companies of Marines were also raised for the express purpose of defending our West India possessions; to which quarter they were sent, and embodied into three regiments, 1704 Charles, Archduke of Austria, being declared king of Spain, and acknowledged as such by England and her allies, Sir George Rooke was sent with a strong squadron of English and Dutch men-of-war to convoy His Majesty to Portugal. On his arrival at Lisbon on the 25th of February, after two days spent in adjusting the ceremonial, His Catholic Majesty was conducted on shore by the King of Portugal, and most of the royal family. (Volume 1 Historical Records of the Royal Marine Forces by Paul Harris Nicolas Lieut. Royal Marines.)
1702. In compliance with the entreaties of King Charles III., the squadron embarked a division of troops under the command of the Prince of Hesse d'Armstadt, and sailed with a fleet of transports, under convoy, for the reduction of Barcelona, where they arrived on the 18th of May; and on the day following twelve hundred Marines, four hundred Dutch foot, a company of Catalans, and as many volunteers as made up a total force of two thousand men, were landed under the Prince of Hesse. After remaining on shorem the whole night, during which the Dutch had bombarded the place with some effect, his Highness, under the apprehension of being attacked by a superior force, caused the force to be re-embarked.
On the 21st of May the fleet sailed; and having passed the Straits on the 14th of June, was joined by the squadron under Sir Cloudesley Shovel in Lagos Bay on the 16th when a council of war assembled to consider what service should be proceeded on; nothing decisive, however, was arranged, and Sir George again sailed for the Mediterranean. On the 17th of July, when in the road of Tetuan, it was determined to make a sudden and resolute attempt upon Gibraltar
On the 21st of July the fleet arrived in Gibraltar Bay, and the Marines, English, and Dutch, to the number of eighteen hundred, were landed under the command of the Prince of Hesse on the isthmus, to cut off all communication between the garrison and the continent. His Highness having taken post there, summoned the governor; who replied that he would defend the place to the last extremity. On the 22nd the admiral, at break of day, commenced a vigorous attack, and cannonaded the town with so much spirit, that fifteen thousand shot were expended in the course of five hours. This produced a correspondent effect, and Sir George Rooke, perceiving that the enemy were driven from the works at the mole head, ordered Captain Whitaker to arm all the boats, and attempt to make himself master of the enemy's fortifications; justly concluding, that if these were once occupied, the town must immediately surrender. This order was no sooner issued, than Captains Hicks and Jumper, who were nearest to the mole, pushed ashore with their pinnaces; and having scrambled up into the fortifications, were actually in possession of them before the rest of the attacking party could arrive. The Spaniards, finding the works untenable, sprang a mine, by which explosion two lieutenants and forty men were killed, and sixty wounded. Notwithstanding this misfortune, the two captains maintained possession of the great platform until they were sustained by Captain Whitaker and the seamen under his command, who soon made themselves masters of a redoubt between the mole and the town. On this, the admiral sent in a letter to the governor; and on the 24th of July 1704, that officer having signed a capitulation, the Prince of Hesse with the Marines immediately possessed themselves of this important fortress.
This attack having been made on a Sunday, almost all the women belonging to the garrison were performing their devotions in a chapel about four miles distant from the rock, so that the besieging forces were between them and their families; and this circumstance hastened the fall of the place, for the citizens within strongly urged the governor to capitulate. The garrison was composed of two skeleton regiments only, but the strength of the fortifications, (the number of cannon mounted being upwards of one hundred pieces towards the sea,) and the two narrow passes of approach from the land, would have rendered it formidable to a less enterprising enemy. Our total loss was 61 killed, 3nd 206 wounded.
The King of Spain being conscious of the importance of Gibraltar, obtained the assistance of a French fleet under M. de Pointis, to assist the Spaniards in carrying on the siege. The Prince of Hesse sent early advice of this circumstance to Lisbon; and consequently, Sir John Leake with his squadron immediately proceeded to the relief of the place, and landed several engineers and gunners, with a body of 400 Marines; but finding that the French were approaching with a superior force, the admiral considered it expedient to return to Lisbon. Having refitted his squadron, he arrived at Gibraltar on the 25th of October, at a very critical j uncture; for on that very night the enemy intended to storm the town on all sides, and had procured 200 boats from Cadiz, in order to have landed 3000 men near the new mole.
The Prince of Hesse persevered in defending the place against the combined efforts of the French and Spanish forces, until the 9th of March 1705, when Admiral Sir John Leake, with a body of troops on board his squadron from Lisbon, again entered the Straits. The arrival of this succour determined the Spaniards to raise the siege, during which they had thrown more than 8,000 bombs, and upwards of 70,000 cannon shot, though to very little purpose. In a curious work published in 1707, entitled The Triumphs of Her Majesty's Arms, particular mention is thus made of the gallantry of the Marines in the defence of Gibraltar: " Encouraged by the example of the Prince of Hesse, the garrison did more than could humanly be expected, and the English Marines gained an immortal glory." Captain Fisher of that corps, with 17 men, attempted to check the advance of 500 grenadiers of the enemy, after the round tower had fallen into their hands. This gallant officer was taken prisoner, rescued, and again taken by the enemy, who, though ultimately repulsed, carried their prisoner into the Spanish lines.
Sir Cloudesley Shovel and the celebrated Earl of Peterborough, having formed a juncture with their respective fleets, which had embarked 5000 troops, proceeded from Lisbon on the 22nd of June for Al tea Bay, where they took on board King Charles of Spain, who pressed the earl to make an attack on the city of Barcelona and the province of Catalonia. Touching at Gibraltar, the newly raised regiments were exchanged for the veteran troops and Marines; and the fleet arrived off Barcelona on the 12th of August, when 2500 men, exclusive of the Marines, were landed, and the siege was undertaken. (Volume 1 Historical Records of the Royal Marine Forces by Paul Harris Nicolas Lieut. Royal Marines.)
1702. Thursday 1st
June. Upon the declaration of war with France and Spain, of which both nations
possessed powerful fleets as well as numerous armies. The British Parliament
felt the expediency of enabling the Queen to increase the efficiency of her
navy, by forming Corps of Marines, which could act at sea as well as on land.
Six Regiments were accordingly added to the regular Army as Marine Corps, and
six others of the regular Regiments of Infantry were appointed for sea service
The Regiments of Marines were commanded by Colonel Thomas Saunderson's, now
thirtieth foot. Colonel George Villiers's, now thirty first foot. Colonel
Edward Fox's, now thirty-second foot. And Colonel Harry Mordaunt's. They were
to fight in Spain, France and in North America alongside Dutch Marines. The six
Regiments of Foot for sea-service were, Commanded Colonel Ventria Columbine's,
now sixth foot. Colonel Thomas Erie's, now nineteenth foot. Colonel Gustavns
Hamilton's, now twentieth foot. Colonel Lord Lucas's, now thirty-fourth foot.
Colonel Earl of Donegal's, now thirty-fifth foot. Colonel Lord Charlemont's,
now thirty-sixth foot. Her Majesty's Order for levying this body of men was
contained in the following Royal Warrant, dated Thursday 1st of June 1702: Anne
R. “Our pleasure is, that this establishment of six Regiments of Marines, and
six other Regiments for Sea-Service, do commence and take place from the
respective times of raising”. "And our further pleasure is, that the order
given by our dearest brother the late King, deceased, and such orders as are,
or shall be, given by us, touching the pay or entertainment of our said forces,
or any of them, or any charges thereunto belonging, shall be duly complied
with, and that no new charge be added to this establishment without being
communicated to our High Treasurer, or Commissioners of our Treasury for the
time being. Given at our Court at St. James's, on the first day of June in the
first year of our reign." By Her Majesty's Command.
Its interesting to note that the Marine Regiments had
2nd Lieutenants whilst those Regiments designated for sea service had Ensigns.
1702. Thursday 1st June. The allowances made to the respective ranks on the Staff of the Army, which was employed in Spain and Portugal, and in which officers of Marines shared, when upon this service, and when acting in any one of the undermentioned capacities, were arranged by her Majesty in Council, previous to the expedition.
General of the Horse and Commander in Chief per day £10-0-0
Three Aids de Camp, each 10s £1-10-0
Lieutenant General £4-0-0
Two Aids de Camp, each 10s £1-0-0
Two Major Generals, 2l each £4-0-0
One Aid de Camp to each, 10s £1-0-0
Three Brigadiers, each 1l 10s £4-10-0
Three Majors of Brigade, each 10s £1-10-0
Quarter-master General £0-10-0
Adjutant General £0-10-0
Judge Advocate £0-10-0
Pay-master £0-5-6
Secretary to Commander in Chief £0-10-0
Chaplain to Commander in Chief £0-6-8
Physician to Commander in Chief £0 10-0
Chirurgeon to Commander in Chief £0-10-0
Provost Marshall 5s and 6 men, each 3s £1-3-0
Waggon Master £0-3-0
..........................................................................................---------
.................................................................Daily amount £32-8-2
........................................................................................=======
And for Contingencies upon Account, the sum of £6000.
"By her Majesty's command,
"GODOLPHIN."
Established 1st June 1702.
(Taken from Chapter 8 ‘An Historical Review of the Royal marine Corps by Alexander Gillespie)
1702 - 1713. ‘Queen
Anne’s War’ was fought mainly in North America was the second in a series of
French and Indian Wars fought between France and England, for the control of
the Americas. The war also involved numerous Native American tribes allied with
each nation. At that time Spain was also allied with France.
1702. The 30th Regiment
the 31st Regiment, and the 32nd Regiments were formed as Marine Corps, and were
employed as such during the wars of the reign of Queen Anne.
1702. Saturday 1st
July. Rules and Instructions for the better government of the Marine Regiments
were issued by the authority of Her Majesty Queen Anne, in which it was
directed, "That when on shore they were to be quartered in the vicinity of
the dock yards, in order to guard them from embezzlement, or from any attempt
that might be made on them by an enemy. Full instructions were also given as to
their pay, subsistence, and clothing, which directed that the same deductions
should be made for clothing as was usual in the land forces. Also that one
day's pay in every year be deducted from officers and soldiers for the
Hospital. When on board ship they were to have an equal proportion of
provisions with the seamen, without any deductions from their pay, the soldiers
receiving short allowance money like the seamen. In order to render such
portions of the Marine regiments as might be on shore, useful on all occasions
when their services might be required, Her Majesty directed, that it should
rest with herself, or with the Lord High Admiral, the Prince George of Denmark,
to dispose of them at such places nearest to the several dock-yards as might be
judged most convenient, and as there might be occasion for labourers to
despatch necessary public works. Her Majesty empowered the High Admiral, or the
Commissioners for executing that office, to cause to be employed in the dock
yards so many of the Marine soldiers as might be judged fitting, and to make
them such daily allowance for their labour, besides their ordinary pay, as
should seem reasonable. The Marine forces being thus placed under the control
of the Lord High Admiral, His Royal Highness was pleased to nominate Colonel
William Seymour (of the fourth Regiment of Foot) to superintend the whole, with
the rank of Brigadier General, whose peculiar duties were to observe, that the
men were comfortably quartered, that the officers were attentive in their
respective departments, and that the Marine soldiers, when embarked on board of
ship, were supplied with proper sea-clothes and other suitable necessaries.
When the Marines were serving afloat, they were to be under the command of the
Naval Officers of the ships.” (sic)
1702. The uniform of
the Marines at that time consisted of high crowned leather caps, covered with
cloth of the same colour as the facings of the Regiment, and ornamented with
devices, the same as the caps worn by the grenadier's scarlet frock coat, buff
waist belt, black pouch carried in front, with bayonet belt attached and buff
gaiters.
1702. July. Colonel Villiers's
Corps of Marines, now the Thirty First Regiment, soon after its formation was
called upon to supply five Companies for embarkation for active service on
board the fleet destined against Spain, these Companies embarked in the latter
part of May from Plymouth, and proceeded to join the fleet at Portsmouth, from
whence the expedition sailed to Cadiz during the month of July. The heavily
armed fleet arrived off Cadiz on Saturday 12th August, and the Duke summoned
the place, but his terms being refused, he landed on the Tuesday 15th at the
Bay of Bulls, between Rota and Fort St. Catherine under great disadvantages and
a well conducted opposition. He then marched upon Rota, where the horses and
stores were disembarked. Two days later he advanced towards the town of St.
Mary. Rota was retaken by a coup and the British garrison of 300 men were
captured. However, the attempt on Cadiz eventually failed, and the troops were
re-embarked, and sailed from Cadiz on the Saturday 30th September. In alluding
to this expedition, Bishop Burnet remarks, "It is certain our Court had
false accounts of the state the place was in, both with relation to the
garrison, and to the fortifications, the garrison was much stronger. While the
fortifications were in a better state, than was represented." 10,000
Marines and Foot Soldiers had been unsuccessfully in an attempt to capture
Cadiz. (sic)
1702. Wednesday 16th
August. The Battle off Portobello took place in the West Indies.
1702. Saturday 19th
August (OS). The Action took place between an English squadron under the
command of Vice Admiral John Benbow and a French under command of Admiral Jean
du Casse, off Cape Santa Marta on the coast of present-day Colombia South
America, a little to the east of the mouth of the Rio Magdalena, during the
‘War of the Spanish Succession’. Benbow vigorously attacked the French
squadron, but the refusal of most of his captains to support the action allowed
du Casse to escape. Benbow lost a leg during the engagement and died of illness
about two months later. While two of the captains were convicted of cowardice
and shot. Benbow's determination to pursue the French, in what proved to be his
last fight, proved irresistible to the public imagination. The events of the
fight inspired a number of ballads, usually entitled Admiral Benbow or Brave
Benbow, which were still favourites among British sailors more than a century
later.
1702. Sunday 3rd September. The Prince of Hesse proposed an attack on Fort Monjouic, situate on a hill that commands the city: it was accordingly assaulted and taken, but with the loss of the gallant projector of the enterprise.
After this success, the siege was pushed with vigour; the trenches were opened on the 9th, and batteries raised for fifty guns and twenty mortars. The bomb-vessels and eight ships, under Sir Stafford Fairbone, cannonaded the town, while the batteries and forts continued their fire on shore. On the 28th the garrison capitulated; and the surrender of this city so strengthened King Charles's party, that the whole principality, Rosas only excepted, speedily submitted. King Charles remained shut up in Barcelona, which was invested by the army under Marshal Thesse, until the 6th of May 1706, when Sir John Leake, who had been joined by the Earl of Peterborough from Tarragona, arrived before the harbour. The king had been closely pressed, and Fort Monjouic retaken by the enemy; but this timely relief changed the position of affairs, and the siege was raised two days after their arrival. The next object of attack was Carthagena, which immediately submitted; and a garrison of Marines, under Major Hedges, was established for its defence. An attempt upon Alicant was then resolved upon, and the Marines ordered to be withdrawn from Carthagena. On the 21st of July, all the Marines of the fleet, with eight hundred seamen, were landed, and the bombardment commenced on the evening of the 22nd. A detachment of the seamen under Sir George Byng rendered very essential service, by destroying the enemy's batteries opposed to the sea, mounting 160 guns. On the 24th of July the Marines arrived from Carthagena and were immediately landed. The ships having made a practicable breach in the round tower, situated at the west end of the place, and another at the middle of the curtain, between the mole and the easternmost bastion, the troops advanced to the assault on the 29th, when an officer, with fifteen grenadiers, who had rashly pushed on against the breach in the town, were repulsed before they could be supported. Captain Evans of the Royal Oak, at the head of some boats' crews, was the first to mount in the breach and these gallant fellows were rapidly followed by the whole of the forces, who were soon in possession of every post of importance. Notwithstanding the preparations made for resistance, and the sharp fire kept up by the Spaniards from the houses, which had been loop-holed for their defence, our loss was inconsiderable, having only thirty killed and eighty wounded. General Mahoni, who had retired into the citadel with a garrison composed chiefly of Neapolitans, refused to capitulate until his defences had suffered considerably from the British squadron and bomb- vessels; but having sustained a heavy loss, he surrendered on the 25th of August. (Volume 1 Historical Records of the Royal Marine Forces by Paul Harris Nicolas Lieut. Royal Marines.)
1702. Wednesday 6th September. The fleet under Sir John Leake sailed from Altea Bay, and on the 9th anchored before Ivica, which immediately tendered its submission to King Charles III. The expedition then proceeded to Majorca; and after throwing a few shells into Palma, the inhabitants compelled the Viceroy to surrender. A captain and a lieutenant, with 100 marines, were placed in the garrison of Porto-Pin. - On the 5th of June 1707, Sir Cloudesley Shovel, having; joined Sir George Byng, anchored on the 28th between Nice and Antibes, about a league from the Var, with a fleet of forty-three men-of-war and fifty-seven transports. On the 29th an attack was made on the enemy's army, then entrenched upon that river, by 600 seamen and Marines, who drove them from their position so suddenly, that the enemy laid down their arms and fled with the utmost precipitation. The Duke of Savoy with the allied army, consisting of 35,000 men, pro- ceeded to Toulon, while the fleet under Sir Cloudesley sailed for Hieres. (Volume 1 Historical Records of the Royal Marine Forces by Paul Harris Nicolas Lieut. Royal Marines.)
1702. Friday 15th September, It was not until the 15th that siege was laid to Toulon, and 100 pieces of cannon landed from the fleet. On the 4th of August the enemy made a vigorous sally, driving all the confederate troops from their works. On the 6th, the siege was raised, and the army withdrawn, having sustained a loss of upwards of 1000 men in killed and wounded. Sardinia was attacked on the 12th of August, and having been bombarded during the night, 1800 men including the whole of the Marines, under Major-general Wills, were landed to attack the city; but the Spanish governor rendered any further measures unnecessary, by coming to a speedy capitulation. The whole were re-embarked and proceeded to the attack of Mahon, where they arrived on the 25th of August.
At this period two of the marine regiments were drafted, and both officers and men incorporated with the other four, now engaged upon this service. All the Marines capable of duty were discharged from the ships about to return home and employed in the reduction of this island. Fort Fornelli, mounting twelve guns, surrendered after a few hours' cannonade by two of our ships; and Ciudadello, the capital, submitted without resistance, The batteries were opened on the works defending the town of Port Mahon on the 17th of September, and a lodgment having been effected under the walls of fort St. Philippe, the enemy capitulated on the following day.
Thus, was this strong fortress and important island gained by a force not exceeding 2400 men while the garrison consisted of more than 1000 soldiers, with upwards of 100 pieces of cannon mounted, and having every requisite for a long siege.
The city and castle of Alicant, which had been taken by the remarkable valour of British seamen and Marines, was at this time besieged by an army of 12,000 men.
The city is commanded by a strong castle, standing on a rock at a small distance from the sea. It now contained a formidable garrison under the command of Major-general Richards, who, after contending against the powerful army opposed to it, retired into the castle, which had hitherto been deemed impregnable. They sank three cisterns in the. solid rock, and then, with incredible labour, filled them with water. The troops forming the garrison, which consisted of Sir Charles Hotham's regiment, with that of Colonel Sibourg, composed principally of refugees, and according to Gillespie a great proportion of the force being Marines, exhibited the most heroic perseverance in maintaining the place. The besiegers attempted to undermine the rock upon which the castle stood; but this did not shake their resolution. A partial explosion, which destroyed about thirty persons, did not intimidate them, and they bravely continued to defend themselves until the arrival of the fleet under Sir George Byng on the 4th of April. General Stanhope with the troops on board then promptly attempted its relief; but a heavy gale coming on and being unable to gain any intelligence as to the state of the garrison, the commander-in-chief by a flag of truce proposed terms of surrender, which being acceded to, the brave remnants were re-embarked on board the fleet, which proceeded to Mahon, and afterwards to Barcelona. (Volume 1 Historical Records of the Royal Marine Forces by Paul Harris Nicolas Lieut. Royal Marines.)
1702. Sunday 24th September. A small squadron under Captain Martin arrived before the harbour of Port Royal, Nova Scotia, on the 24th of September; and on the 25th, Colonel Nicholson with a force of 2000 men, including 400 Marines, proceeded to the attack of the place, opposed by a heavy fire from the batteries. Colonel Vetch, with 500 men, so lined the shore on the north side, that he protected the landing of the cannon and ammunition. The bombvessel drifting up with the tide, rendered important service during the first two days, and was so spiritedly supported by the military exertions on shore, that the governor capitulated on the 1st of September, and a garrison of Marines was left in possession of the place, which was now named Annapolis Royal, in honour of her Majesty, under whose auspices it had been subdued. (Volume 1 Historical Records of the Royal Marine Forces by Paul Harris Nicolas Lieut. Royal Marines.)
1702. Wednesday 11th -
12th October. The Attack on the Treasure ships at Virgo, during the War of the
Spanish Succession. The English and Dutch forces surprised and captured the
Spanish defended harbour and shared part of the silver from a treasure fleet
that was being unloaded. However, the Spanish sailors had already unloaded most
of its cargo.
1703. Saturday 6th
January. Seven companies of the Regiment were stationed at Plymouth, and on the
Saturday 27th four companies were ordered for embarkation on board of the ships
Suffolk and Grafton, which proceeded on service to the coast of Spain, to join
the fleet under the command of Admiral Sir George Rooke, During December
Colonel Villiers, who was in command of the Regiment on board of the fleet
drowned. On Saturday 6th December he was succeeded by Lieutenant Colonel
Alexander Lutterell.
1703. February. Hovenden Walker at Guadaloupe.
1703. In order to pave the way for the cordial reception of King Charles the III. orders were sent to Sir Cloudesley Shovel, then commanding the British Fleet in the Mediterranean, to effect what he could by conciliation, or by conquest, amongst the different dependencies of the French and Spanish monarchies, previous to the arrival of the Royal Claimant. Throughout the whole of that Admiral's instructions, much dependence was placed upon the energies of the Marine Forces under his command, and they subsequently bore a conspicuous share of the mingled services that ensued, in the cause of the House of Austria. This circumstance may evince the very high estimation in which they were held as Soldiers, although nothing materially occurred either under the command of Sir Cloudesley Shovel, or during the currency of 1703.
After many delays the Archduke arrived at Lisbon, with Sir George Rooke, upon the 25th day of February 1704, in order to concert a plan of future operations with his ally, the King of Portugal. The Admiral was enjoined to attempt nothing without the suggestion and assent of Both.
The first enterprise was against Barcelona, whither they were invited by some deputies from Catalonia, and a few leading men in the city, who gave assurances that it would declare for Charles the III. if a shew of attack only was made. Here 1600 Marines were landed, at the request and under the command of the Prince of Hesse, upon the noon of the 19th of May. This force being inadequate for the purpose, it was next day re-embarked at the instance of his Highness. Listening to the wishes of their Majesties, in conformity with his instructions, the Admiral would have attempted Cadiz; but, upon deliberation, and that there was no army to co-operate, this idea was given up.
They accordingly turned their thoughts to Gibraltar, where the Prince of Hesse was landed in the afternoon of the 21st of July, with 1800 British and Dutch Marines. Proceeding upon the decision of a Council of War, his Highness was to cut off all communication with the main land, to bombard and cannonade the place, and to reduce it to the obedience of the King of Spain.
Having established his post at some mills then near the town, he sent a summons for the Governor to surrender; who answered, that all his garrison had taken an oath of allegiance to their lawful Sovereign, King Philip the V. and that as loyal and faithful subjects, they would die in its defence.
The Admiral having directed a strong force to proceed against the south mole, the enemy were driven from their guns. A number of boats manned and armed, were then detached under the gallant conduct of Capt. Whitaker, of the Navy, who soon obtained possession of the great platform; but about one hundred, whose impetuous bravery had carried them within the effects of a mine connected with the fort, were killed and wounded by its explosion. The rest, however, advancing most rapidly, gained a redoubt, half-way between the mole and the town.
This attack being made upon a Sunday, almost the whole of the women belonging to the garrison, were performing their devotions in a chapel about four miles distant; so that the besieging forces were between them and their husbands and families.
This circumstance hastened the fall of the place, for the citizens within strongly urged the Governor to capitulate; who being thus almost compelled to it, the Prince of Hesse, at the head of the Marines, marched in upon the evening of the 24th. The garrison, indeed, was only composed of two skeleton regiments; but the strength of the fortifications, the number of cannons mounted being upwards of 100 pieces towards the sea, and the two narrow passes of approach from the land, would have rendered it formidable to an enemy who possessed not the dash of enterprise. Our loss, in the attempt, was 61 killed, and 206 wounded.
In October of the same year, the Garrison, composed of Marines under the Prince of Hesse, sustained a siege by 7000 men. The purpose of the enemy was to have stormed from the south mole, united with the desperate attempt of a Spanish forlorn hope climbing the rock, and a general attack from the main land. Against very superior forces Gibraltar was maintained, until relieved by Sir John Leake, who reinforced the place with 2000 men.
This Fortress, seated upon the territories of our natural foe, has long stood a monument of our naval power, which has oftener than once been especially devoted to relieve its wants; and has also afforded to the world, a brilliant instance of military defence under the late Lord Heathfield.
Nothing worthy of notice occurred until the month of September 1705, when it was deemed essential by the Earl of Peterborough Commander in Chief, to attempt something worthy of our arms, and the service of the King.
At the desire of his Lordship, a large body of Seamen and Marines were landed at Barcelona, who were auxiliary in the reduction of that important place, at which his Majesty was present.
This city was destined to an attack from the enemy, early in 1706, whither Sir John Leake, having the Earl of Peterborough on board, proceeded in April.
His Majesty, King Charles, who was then within its walls, very strongly urged the immediate debarkation of all our forces; upon which, 1400 land troops, and the Marines of the fleet, were on the 9th of April, sent to his aid. Their appearance was well timed, as the French had made a practicable breach, which they would otherwise have stormed upon the following day. After repeated attempts they relaxed in their efforts, and many volunteers from the city, as well as peasants from the mountains pouring down in numbers, obliged them to raise the siege precipitately, upon the 11th. After ten at night the enemy began to retreat; but first setting fire to their magazines and placing matches to their mines. Many of the former, however, were preserved by the natives, and a number of the latter were extinguished by the soldiery. The morning's dawn presented their army retreating in disorder, and grievously harassed by our troops, and the enraged Catalans.
An eclipse of the sun, followed by a total darkness about nine, suspended for a while every operation, which, when dissipated, the slaughter was renewed, till prudence recalled them from the carnage. The enemy's camp, with 100 brass cannon and stores of every description, were the fruits of our efforts.
Having thus relieved this important place, the fleet sailed upon the 18th of May, and landed the forces of every description, upon the coast of Valencia on the 25th.
This was preparatory to the attack of Alicant, which was deemed almost impregnable. Having been apprized that it was reinforced, and that a regular siege alone could reduce it, the idea was dropped for a time, and they proceeded against Carthagena, which immediately submitted; and where a garrison of 600 Marines under Major Hedges, who was appointed Governor of it, was established for its defence.
An attempt upon Alicant was then resolved upon; but Brigadier Gorge having upon a close review of the place, and learning the resolute spirit of its Governor, Major General Mahoni, represented that not less than 3000 men were necessary to reduce it. Having with him not more than 1450 troops, and he of the opinion that no dependence could be placed in the Spanish Militia, it was determined to withdraw the garrison of Marines from Carthagena, in order to assist in these active operations, and to put another in its stead.
The fleet arrived off Alicant, upon the 26th of June, when a summons was forwarded to General Mahoni, who, like an Officer, answered, that he would hold out to the last. His force consisted of more than 1000 Soldiers, and many inhabitants of the town, who had volunteered in its defence.
Brigadier Gorge having moved from Elche upon the 21st of July, where he had remained waiting for reinforcements, to within a mile of Alicant, all the Marines of the fleet, with 800 Seamen, were landed upon that day, and the following morning, and the bombardment commenced in the evening of the 22d. A detachment of the Naval force under Sir George Byng, rendered very essential service, by dismounting many of the enemy's guns opposed to the sea, and driving the men from them.
Upon the 24th of July, the Marines arrived from Carthagena, and were immediately landed. Four days after, when the troops had gained possession of the suburbs, all the boats were manned and armed, in order to attack the town. On the 29th, the ships having made a practicable breach in the round tower, at the west end of the place, and another at the middle of the curtain, between the mole and the easternmost bastion, the Soldiers advanced to storm them. An Officer with fifteen Grenadiers rashly pushed on against the breach in the town but were repulsed before they could be supported. Upon this occasion there were particularly distinguished, Captains Evans, Passenger, and Watkins, of the Royal Navy. Capt. Evans, at the head of a few of the boats crews, was the first to mount into the breach, and they were rapidly seconded by the whole forces, who, upon reaching the town, secured every post, with but little loss; there being only 30 killed, and 80 wounded, although the Spaniards had prepared for this event, by forcing temporary loop holes in their houses, from which they kept up a sharp fire upon our men as they approached.
General Mahoni now retired into the Castle and was again summoned by Brigadier Gorge; his answer was such as became him, and what might have been expected from his character. At this time the detached squadron had dismounted many of his guns, beat down a part of the walls, and his Garrison was extremely annoyed by shells from the bomb vessels. Composed chiefly of Neapolitans, they at last compelled the brave Mahoni to yield, who, from this cause alone, surrendered his charge, after a heavy loss, upon the 25th of August.
Having adjusted everything, the fleet proceeded to the Island of Ivica, where it arrived upon the 9th day of September. The Governor instantly saluted, and tendered submission and obedience to King Charles the III. It was afterwards resolved to attack Majorca, to the Viceroy of which a summons was sent in, upon the 14th of September. He, with some others in the interest of the Duke of Anjou, appeared resolute to defend themselves; but when a few shells were thrown into Palma, the capital, the inhabitants obliged him to retire to his palace, and there enter into terms. A Garrison of one Captain, one Lieutenant, and 100 Marines was placed here, and all the disaffected to our cause, were withdrawn from the island.
Nothing farther, connected with my subject, appears on the face of the military transactions of this year. In the month of June 1707, an opportunity presented of co-operating with the Duke of Savoy and Prince Eugene in an intended attack upon Toulon. Towards the close of it, the fleet proceeded for the coast of Italy, where it anchored upon the 28th, between Nice and Antibes, about a league from the Var. A conference took place on the following day betwixt the Commanders in Chief, when it was decided, that a joint attack should be made upon a part of the enemy's army then entrenched upon that river, before they could be reinforced.
These works being exposed to the fire of the ships, as they could stand within little more than musket shot, were hastily evacuated, and in less than an hour they were occupied by 600 Seamen and Marines. The passage was now open for the Duke of Savoy to prosecute his destination, while frigates were stationed along the different parts of the sea coast, in order to keep up a mutual communication.
Having reached Toulon, every aid was afforded by the fleet both as to men and cannon, but the enemy daily augmenting his forces, and having made a successful sally, induced the raising of this siege upon the 10th of August, after a loss of more than a thousand men.
One happy result arose from this attempt however, which was, that the French, under a sudden dread of consequences, sunk a number of their largest men of war, which were ever after un-fit for service.
King Charles having often urged the reduction of Sardinia, with a view to open a passage for his troops in Naples to attack Sicily, as well as on account of its sources of supply of all kinds of provisions for his armies, of which they were much in want, a body of Marines was drawn from Tarragona, a strong sea port and Garrison in Catalonia, to assist in this enterprise. Upon the 1st day of August 1708, the whole arrived before Cagliari, the capital. Upon receiving a very equivocal answer to a summons sent in, the bombardment commenced that evening, and continued without intermission until next morning, when at the break of day, Major General Wills, and the whole of the Marines, with one Spanish regiment were landed. The place, in consequence, almost instantly surrendered.
The whole having been re-embarked, the fleet again set sail, upon the 18th of August, for Minorca, and arrived at Port Mahon upon the 25th.
At this period, two of the Marine Regiments were drafted, and both officers and men were incorporated with the other four, now employed upon this service. The measure was necessary, in order to supply the casualties that had occurred, and to render these corps effective. For this purpose, all the Marines capable of duty, were drawn from a number of the fleet about to return home, as well as to assist in the reduction of an island, which, every officer conceived, would make a spirited and tedious defence.
The first attack was against Fort Fornelle, which was cannonaded by two of the ships, and fell after a contest of four hours. A detachment having been pushed to Cittadello, the capital, it surrendered without resistance.
The batteries were opened on the works defending the town of Port Mahon, upon the 17th of September, when, after a short but brisk fire, and the loss of only six men, a lodgement was effected under the very walls of St. Philip's Castle; and next day the enemy capitulated.
Thus, was this strong fortress, and important island, gained by a force of only 2400 men, while the garrison consisted of more than one thousand Soldiers, with upwards of 100 pieces of cannon mounted, and having everything requisite for sustaining a long siege.
Sir George Byng arrived at Lisbon upon the 14th of October, having her Majesty the Queen of Portugal on board, but, although many other objects of service were in contemplation, nothing farther was attempted during 1708. (Taken from Chapter 3 ‘An Historical Review of the Royal Marine Corps' by Alexander Gillespie)
1703. Wednesday 7th
March. The Battle and Siege of Guadeloupe in the Caribbean was a failed attempt
by English forces led by Christopher Codrington to capture the French
controlled isle, during the ‘War of the Spanish Succession’. The English
struggled to gain a foot hold owing to a shortage of supplies, while
Guadeloupe’s Governor Charles Auger received reinforcements from Martinique
which contributed to the English eventually lifted the siege.
Colonel Codrington, Governor off H.M. Leeward Islands,
came with the Land Force, under his command, on board a squadron of H.M. Ships,
with divers Privateers, and other vessels, receiving several shots from the
shore without doing any other mischief other than killing one man, and a boy.
The Colonel stood off till the 10th March, waiting for the Maidstone and the
other small vessels that carried the provisions and ammunition. On the 12th
March, Colonel Byam with his own Regiment, and 200 of Coronel Whethan’s men,
landed at the break of day at a place called Les Petite. About nine in the
morning Coronel Whetham landed in a bay to the Northwest of the town called Les
Bailiff, where he met with a vigorous resistance from all the enemies forces in
very good and advantageous fortifications. Yet not withstanding all their fire,
the English marched up to their entrenchments, with their muskets shouldered,
not firing a shot at them until they could lay the muzzles of the guns upon the
enemy’s breast works. The English had three Captains killed before they could
make themselves masters of the enemy’s entrenchments, which they did around
noon, and an hour later of La Bayliffe, and of the Jacobine Church, which the
enemy had fortified, with 10 of their Cannon.
1703. Sunday 18th
March. Montague engaged a french Squadron.
1703. Friday 27th July.
Dilkes destroyed French ships off Graville.
1703. Friday 31th
August. The Landing at Althea. The whole fleet came inside to Althaea in search
of fresh water. HMS Flamborough was sent close to the shore to cover the
descent of their Regiments of Marines, who landed without any manner of
confusion, and were actually drawn up in Battalia on the shore, before half the
fleet had come to anchor. Brigadier General Seymour landed with the first
detachment, and gave such orders that a more orderly descent could not have
been made in an enemy country. This done they set up a camp, and the Spaniards
upon seeing this brought plenty of provisions for them, for which they paid
them. The fleet left without anybody on both sites being injured.
1703. Friday 16th
November. The Great Storm, 13 men of war ships lost.
1703. Monday 26th
November. HMS Oxford. HMS Warspite and HMS Lichfield captured the Hauardeux.
1704. A second attempt
to Capture Cadiz was abandon in favour of all Marines and Foot Soldiers being
diverted and used to take the grand prize that of Gibraltar.
1704. February. The
Thirty First Regiment at that time was a Marine Corps serving under Admiral Sir
George Rooke. During February the fleet headed towards Lisbon, and from there
it proceeded on to Barcelona, where the troops were landed under the Command of
Major General the Prince of Hesse Darmstadt, on the Monday 19th May. However,
the force being inadequate for the purpose intended, was re-embarked the
following day.
1704. February. During
the reign of Queen Anne (Friday 6th February 1665 - Wednesday 1st August 1714)
certain Independent Companies of Marines were raised for the soul purpose of
aiding in the defence of the British possessions in the West Indies. The first
important service on which the Marine Corps were employed during her reign was
on board the fleet Commanded by Admiral Sir Cloudesly Shovel. He was instructed
to make every possible arrangement by conciliation or by conquest, among the
dependencies of the French and Spanish monarchies. In order to ensure a cordial
reception of the Archduke Charles of Austria in opposition to Philip, Duke of
Anjou of France, to the throne of Spain. After some delays, the Archduke
finally arrived at Lisbon under Admiral Sir George Rooke on the Monday 25th
February in order devise a plan of future operations with his ally the King of
Portugal.
1704. Friday 12 March.
Rear-Admiral Dilkes captured three Spanish ships.
1704. April. Sir George Rooke, after cruising with his fleet along the coast of Portugal, returned to
Lisbon and welcomed the Prince of Hesse-Darmstadt on board. Later on Sunday
20th April they sailed towards Barcelona. Upon the arrival of the fleet, the
Prince of Hesse sent a letter to Don Vclasco the Governor of Bar, requiring him
to surrender the town, but he declined. Sixteen hundred Marines were landed
under the command, of Major General the Prince of Hesse-Darmstadt, on Monday
19th May. This force, was found to be inadequate for the purpose, and was
re-embarked the following day. The next object of attack was to be the Rock of
Gibraltar where the Prince of Hesse landed during the afternoon of the Monday 21st
July with 1800 British and Dutch Marines. Acting upon the decision of a council
of war. His Highness proceeded to cut off all communication with the mainland,
to bombard the place, and to reduce it to the obedience of Charles III King of
Spain. The governor, on being summoned, refused to surrender, alleging that all
the garrison had taken an oath of allegiance to King Philip V.
Admiral Sir George Rooke having directed a strong
force to proceed against the South Mole, had driven the enemy from their guns, several
boats manned and armed, were then detached under the command of Captain
Whitaker, of the Navy, who soon obtained possession of the great platform.
About one hundred of the besiegers, whose impetuous bravery had carried them
within the effects of a mine connected with the fort, were killed or wounded by
the explosion. The rest advancing rapidly, gained a redoubt half way between
the mole and the town. The Governor at the urgent insistence of the
inhabitants, was induced to capitulate, and the Prince of Hesse took possession
of the garrison on the evening of Thursday 24th July. The loss in effecting the
capture of this important fortress was Sixty one killed, and two hundred and
six wounded. The attack of the seamen was one of the boldest and most difficult
ever made, with them being obliged to climb up rocks and precipices. Thus it
was taken in three days, a fortress since made impregnable to all assaults. The
loss of Gibraltar disconcerted the measures of Philip V, and of his grandfather
Louis XIV. Eight thousand men, under the Marquis dc Villadarias, were
immediately detached from the Spanish army to retake the fortress, and the
French Admiral received orders to engage the British and Dutch fleets, and to
cooperate in the recapture of Gibraltar. The hostile fleets engaged on the
Sunday 24th August, about eleven leagues south of Malaga, after each had
suffered severely, they were separated in the night. The enemy retired to
Toulon, and Sir George Rooke sailed to Gibraltar. Once there and after having held
a Council of War, it was determined to return home, and the confederate fleet
sailed for England, arriving at Spithead on the Thursday 25th September. Sir
John Leake and Admiral Vander-dussen were left at Lisbon to protect the coast
of Portugal, and relieve Gibraltar, if it should be besieged as was
anticipated.
1704. 1st – 3rd August. The Capture of Gibraltar by the forces of the Grand Alliance occurred between 1–3 August 1704 during the War of the Spanish Succession. Since the beginning of the war the Alliance had been looking for a harbour in the Iberian Peninsulato control the Strait of Gibraltar and facilitate naval operations against the French fleet in the western Mediterranean Sea. An attempt to seize Cádiz had ended in failure in September 1702. but following the Alliance fleet's success at Vigo Bay in October that year the combined fleets of the 'Maritime Powers', the Netherlands and England, had emerged as the dominant naval force in the region. This strength helped persuade King Peter II of Portugal to sever his alliance with France and Bourbon controlled Spain and ally himself with the Grand Alliance in 1703. Now with access to the Portuguese port of Lisbon the Alliance fleets could campaign in the Mediterranean, and conduct operations in support of the Austrian Habsburg candidate to the Spanish throne, the Archduke Charles, known to his supporters as Charles III of Spain.
Prince George of Hesse-Darmstadt represented the Habsburg cause in the region. In June 1704 the Prince and Admiral George Rooke, commander of the main Grand Alliance fleet, failed to take Barcelona in the name of 'Charles III'; Rooke subsequently evaded pressure from his allies to make another attempt on Cádiz. However, in order to compensate for their lack of success the Alliance commanders resolved to capture Gibraltar, a small town on the southern Spanish coast. Following a heavy bombardment, the town was invaded by English and Dutch marines and sailors. The governor, Diego de Salinas, agreed to surrender Gibraltar and its small garrison on 3 August. Three days later Prince George entered the town with Austrian and Spanish Habsburg troops in the name of Charles III of Spain. However, the Grand Alliance failed in its objective of replacing Philip V with Charles III as King of Spain but in the peace negotiations Gibraltar was ceded to Britain.
Background
At the start of the War of the Spanish Succession Portugal was nominally an ally of the Bourbons: France under Louis XIV, and Spain under his grandson, Philip V. Although she was not a belligerent Portugal's harbours were closed to the enemies of the Bourbon powers – principally the vessels of England and the Dutch Republic. However, following the Anglo-Dutch naval victory at Vigo Bay in 1702 the balance of naval forces had swung in favour of the Grand Alliance. Having now the ability to cut off Portugal's food supplies and trade (particularly gold from Brazil) it was not hard for the Allied diplomats to induce King Peter II to sign the Methuen Treaties of May 1703 and join the Alliance. Once Peter II had committed himself to war the Alliance fleets gained access to Portugal's harbours, in particular the port of Lisbon. In return for his allegiance Peter II had demanded military and financial aid and territorial concessions in Spain; he had also asked that the Alliance to send to Lisbon Emperor Leopold I's younger son, Charles – the Alliance's Habsburg candidate to the Spanish throne – to demonstrate the earnestness of their support. Known to his supporters as Charles III of Spain, the young pretender arrived in Lisbon – via London – with George Rooke's fleet on 7 March 1704, amid great celebrations.
Apart from the failed Grand Alliance attempt take Cádiz in 1702, and the subsequent attack on the Spanish treasure fleet in Vigo Bay, the war had thus far been limited to the Low Countriesand Italy. With Portugal's change of allegiance, however, the war moved towards Spain. In May 1704 the court at Lisbon received news that French and Spanish troops had crossed the frontier into Portugal. This army of approximately 26,000 men under Philip V and the Duke of Berwick scored several victories on the border: Salvaterra fell on 8 May, Penha Garcia on 11 May, Philip V personally oversaw the fall of Castelo Branco on 23 May, and T'Serclaes captured Portalegre on 8 June. But without supply for their forces, the coming summer heat made it impossible for them to continue with the campaign, and Philip V returned to Madrid on 16 July to a heroes welcome. However, the heat did not affect the war at sea where the Alliance was in a position of strength.
Prelude
Prince George of Hesse-Darmstadt (1670–1705). Prince George was the Imperial representative in the Iberian Peninsula and the nominal commander of the Anglo-Dutch forces
Using Lisbon as an improvised forward base Admiral Rooke’s Anglo-Dutch fleet ventured into the Mediterranean Sea in May 1704. After seeing the Levant trading fleet safely through the Strait of Gibraltar Rooke headed towards Nice to put himself in touch with Victor Amadeus II, Duke of Savoy. The Grand Alliance had planned for a naval attack upon the French base at Toulon in conjunction with the Savoyard army and the rebels of the Cévennes; but with Amadeus busy defending his capital Turin rom French forces, the Toulon expedition was abandoned and Rooke sailed for the Catalonian capital, Barcelona.
Accompanying Rooke was Prince George of Hesse-Darmstadt who had enjoyed popularity amongst the Catalans as their governor at the end of the Nine Years' War. The Prince was the great exponent of the Barcelona plan; he had been in touch with the dissidents within Catalonia and counted on the appearance of the fleet to encourage a rising in favour of 'Charles III'. On 30 May, under cover of the ships’ guns, Prince George landed with 1,200 English and 400 Dutch marines; but the governor of Barcelona, Don Francisco de Velasco, had managed to keep the city's disaffected elements quiet and Philip V's partisans on the alert. Moreover, the dissidents were incensed by the size of the Alliance force and had expected the personal appearance of 'Charles III'. Ultimatums for Velesco to surrender on pain of bombardment were ignored, and the plans for an insurrection from within the city’s walls failed to materialize. Rooke, fearing an attack from a French squadron, was impatient for departure. Prince George could do little more than order his local followers – a thousand in all – to disperse to their homes. The marines embarked on 1 June without loss.
Meanwhile, the comte de Toulouse, one of Louis XIV’s illegitimate sons, was sailing towards the Straits with the fleet from Brest. News from Lisbon of the French manoeuvres reached Rooke on 5 June. Determined to prevent the junction of the Toulon and Brest fleets Rooke decided to risk a battle. However, owing to the foul bottoms of the Anglo-Dutch ships the swifter French fleet escaped Rooke’s pursuit and arrived safely in Toulon; thenceforth, Toulouse became the commander of the enlarged French fleet, now known as the Grand Fleet of France. Rooke could not venture within range of the Toulon forts nor risk attack from a superior force so far away from any port of refuge, he therefore turned back towards the Straits where the arrival of an English squadron under Cloudesley Shovell had put the Allies on a numerical equality with the French.
Rooke met Shovell on 27 June off Lagos. Peter II and ‘Charles III’ sent word from Lisbon that they now wished another attempt to be made on Cádiz. Methuen believed the place to be ungarrisoned and easy to take, but the admirals in the fleet remained sceptical, especially when considering that they were not on this occasion carrying a force comparable to the failed attempt there two years earlier. Cádiz, however, was not the only potential target. As the Alliance fleet lay off Tetuan on the Barbary Coast, a council of war aboard Rooke’s flagship discussed the need to please the two kings and save their own reputations. On 28 July the Alliance commanders considered the proposal of Prince George, now commander-in-chief of Alliance forces in the peninsula, for an attack on Gibraltar.
The idea of attacking Gibraltar was old and widely spread. The ‘Rock’ had caught the attention of Oliver Cromwell, and later William III's and Queen Anne’s ministers had marked it for England. The Moors had previously shown interest in the Rock and fortified it with a castle whose ruins still remained. Emperor Charles V had added many other works; but its immediate operational benefit was negligible. Gibraltar had little trade and its anchorage was unprotected – there was no question, at this time, of basing a fleet there.
Battle
Attack on Gibraltar 1–3 August 1704. Prince George of Hesse entered the town on 6 August in the name of 'Charles III' but effective control remained with the English.
The Grand Alliance fleet crossed from Tetuan on 30 July; by 1 August Rooke, flying his flag in the Second Rate Royal Katherine, stood at the entrance to the bay while Admiral George Byng’s squadron (16 English under Byng and six Dutch ships under Rear Admiral Paulus van der Dussen) anchored inside, ranging themselves within the line of defences from the Old to the New Mole. The council of war had decided that Prince George would land with 1,800 English and Dutch marines on the isthmus under cover of a naval bombardment. The marines landed at the head of the bay, and met with no resistance except for a small body of cavalry. They cut off Gibraltar from the mainland while the enemy on the nearby hills were dispersed by fire from two ships sent to the east of the rock.
Prince George summoned the governor, Don Diego de Salinas, to surrender in the name of Charles III. He refused, and the garrison pledged its allegiance to Philip V. Although the governor was determined to resist, he knew he did not have the means to do so: his earlier requests for a reinforcements and military stores had always been in vain. By his own account, Don Diego had ‘no more than fifty-six men of whom there were not thirty in service’ and could count on a few hundred civilian militia ‘of such bad quality that before they [the Allied fleet] arrived they began to run away.’ In addition, he had 100 cannon of various kinds, but few were in a state to be fired, and fewer still had gunners to fire them.
The 2 August passed in preliminaries. Don Diego, who in Trevelyan’s words was prepared to ‘die like a gentleman’, sent back his defiant reply to the summons to surrender. Byng’s squadron warped themselves in along the sea front as close as the depth permitted, and Captain Jumper brought the Lenox within actual musket range of the New Mole. These operations were carried out in a dead calm and were not impeded by a few shots from the Spanish batteries. At midnight Captain Edward Whitaker of the Dorsetshire led a party against a French privateer anchored at the Old Mole which had been firing at the marines on the isthmus.
Admiral George Rooke (1650–1709) by Michael Dahl.
About 05:00 the following day, 3 August, Byng’s squadron of 22 ships fired in earnest on the crumbling walls and forts. Tens of thousands of shells were fired in the attack. The actual damage done was small in proportion to the expenditure of the shot, but in view of the possible approach of the French fleet the job had to be done quickly or not at all. Captain Whitaker acted as Byng’s aide-de-camp, carrying his instructions from ship to ship, including the final order to cease firing six hours after they had begun. As the smoke lifted Captain Jumper at the southern end of the line could discern the New Mole and the fort that commanded its abutment on the land. The defenders of the fort appeared to have fled, and Whitaker and Jumper agreed that a landing could be effected there unopposed. Rooke granted the request to attack, and a flotilla of row-boats raced for the New Mole.
Landing
As the Grand Alliance prepared for their assault the priests, women, and children who had taken refuge at the chapel of Europa Point at southern end of the peninsula, began to return to their homes in the town. An English ship fired a warning shot in front of the civilian column forcing them back out of harm’s way, but the shot was mistaken by the rest of the fleet as a signal to resume fire, and the bombardment began again. Under cover of the guns the landing party did its work.
The foremost sailors clambered into the breached and undefended fort at the New Mole; however, by accident or design the magazine at the fort blew up. Some of the landing party carried lighted gun-matches and, according to Trevelyan, had forgotten the possibility of a powder-magazine. Whatever the cause of the explosion the Alliance suffered between 100–200 casualties. A momentary panic ensued, for the survivors suspected an enemy-laid trap had caused the disaster. There was a rush for the boats, but at this critical moment Captain Whitaker arrived with reinforcements. The landing was supported by a number of Catalan volunteers, from who one of Gibraltar's main spots, Catalan Bay, bears its name. Within a few minutes the attackers had rallied and were proceeding north along the deserted ramparts of the seafront towards Gibraltar. On arriving near Charles V's southern wall of the town, Whitaker halted the sailors and hoisted the Union Flag in a bastion on the shore.
Byng now came ashore with several hundred more seamen. Thus, was the town invested by Byng in the south, as well as on its stronger northern side where the marines had landed with Prince George. Meanwhile, the party of the women and children stranded at Europa Point had been captured by English sailors. Rooke had given orders that the prisoners were not to be ill-treated, but the desire to recover these women was a further inducement for the defenders to end their resistance. Seeing all was lost Don Diego agreed to terms that guaranteed the lives and property of those committed to his care. Under the capitulation French subjects were taken prisoner, while any Spaniard who would take an oath of allegiance to 'Charles III' as King of Spain could remain in the town with religion and property guaranteed. However, with the exception of a few families the Spanish elected to depart to the mainland, where shortly afterwards they founded the town of San Roque in sight of their ancient home.
Aftermath
Statue of Sir George Rooke, erected in Gibraltar in 2004 to celebrate 300 years of British rule.
Most of the inhabitants chose to leave Gibraltar because their priests promised them that it would soon be retaken. They were also persuaded by Alliance looting parties. Rooke remembered the looting at Cádiz but could not prevent a repetition at Gibraltar: the treasures at the Europa shrine were seized and all the churches save one were sacked, besides private houses. The Alliance's conduct aroused anger in Spain against the 'heretics', and once again the chance of winning over Andalusians to the Imperial cause was lost. Prince George was the first to complain, which was resented by Byng who had led the fighting and who in turn blamed the Prince and his few Spanish or Catalan supporters. Rooke complained in a letter home that the Spaniards were so exasperated against the Alliance that ‘they use the prisoners they take as barbarously as the Moors’.
The capture of Gibraltar, however, was recognized as a great achievement in Lisbon and by all the trading interests in the Mediterranean. A month after its capture Secretary of State Sir Charles Hedges described it as 'of great use to us [the English] for securing our trade and interrupting the enemy’s'. With the English navy established on the Straits the piratical Moors of the Barbary Coast became reluctant to attack English merchant shipping and allied themselves with Queen Anne. However, Gibraltar's immediate use as a port was limited for it could only take a few ships at a time, and ministers did not think they could keep it unless a garrison could be found for its security. John Methuen recommended an English garrison. This was supplied by the marines that had helped take the place, and by several companies of regular troops. Gibraltar was, therefore, held by English troops and at English cost – but it was in 'Charles III's' name. A year later the Austrian candidate wrote to Queen Anne about “Ma ville de Gibraltar”. If he had succeeded in his attempt to ascend the throne in Madrid the difficulty of keeping Gibraltar for England would have been politically very great.
The Alliance fleet returned to Tetuan to water. Before fresh orders came from Lisbon there was news of the approach of the French Grand Fleet under Toulouse. In an attempt by the French to retake Gibraltar, the one full-dress naval engagement of the war was fought off Málaga on 24 August; afterwards, French and Spanish troops battered at the land approaches, defended by a small garrison of sailors, soldiers, and marines. These attempts failed, and with the signing of the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713 Britain formally gained control of Gibraltar which remains a British overseas territory.(Author Unknown)
1704. Sunday 24th
August. The Battle of Malaga Southern Spain, was the largest naval battle
during the ‘War of the Spanish Succession’.
1704. Wednesday 29th
October. Leake captured six French ships at Gibraltar.
1705. Monday 2nd
February. Having received considerable reinforcements, placed at his disposal
the Marquis de Villadarias made an attempt to storm the Bound Tower, to
ascertain what might be effective by a larger force. Where upon on Saturday 7th
February the enemy attacked with five hundred chosen Grenadiers, French and
Walloons, Commanded by Lieut. General Thouy, supported by one thousand Spanish
troops. They ascended the hill in perfect silence at daybreak, and again
attempted to storm the Bound Tower, which was defended by Colonel Borr of the
now thirty second Regiment. The assailants were throwing from above great
stones and grenades on his men, at last obliged him to retire into that part of
the works where the foot guards were posted. Flushed with success, they
advanced too far, when they were gallantly charged by Colonel Moncall, of
Barrymore's thirteenth Regiment, and driven from the Bound Tower. Colonel
Rivett, of the Coldstream guards, having got up the rock on the right of the
covered way with twenty grenadiers, favoured very much Colonel Moncalfs
success. The garrison by this time had assembled, and kept up so destructive a
fire that although the enemy was obliged to make a precipitate retreat, losing
seventy men killed on the spot, upwards of two hundred wounded, and one
Captain, four Lieutenants, and forty men taken. The loss on the part of the
garrison was twenty seven men killed, and one hundred and twenty wounded.
Marshal de Tcsse arrived with additional troops to
carry on the siege, the garrison also received fresh reinforcements from
Portugal, besides supplies of every description. Admiral Sir John Leake sailed
from the Tagus on the Friday 6th March, and his arrival in the Bay of Gibraltar
on the Tuesday 10th, was again so sudden, that he completely surprised the
Baron de Pointi, together with the whole of his squadron, consisting of five
ships of the line, three of which were captured, and two were driven on shore,
and burnt by the enemy. After a siege of seven months the enemy retired, in
April, giving up all hopes of being able to make any impression on the
fortress, his efforts were then confined to a very feeble blockade. The
fortress of Gibraltar, seated upon the territory of Spain, was thus rendered
subject to the British. 1,900 British and 400 Dutch Marines prevented Spanish
reinforcements from reaching the fortress. Later, British ships bombarded the
city while Marines and seamen stormed the defences. After which they later
withstood a nine month siege. Today the Royal Marines display only the battle
honour Gibraltar on their badge, while their close relationship with the Royal
Netherlands Marine Corps who fought alongside them continues to this day. (sic)
1705. Tuesday 10th
March. Leake destoyed or took five French line-of-battle ships.
1705. Sunday 12th July.
The Surrender and Capture of Carthagena, having been garrisoned by 600 Marines
under Major Hedge, the town and castle of Alicant had also fallen.
1705. Wednesday 29th
July. The Capture of Alicant.
1705. Wednesday 23rd
September. Barcelona capitulated.
1706. Tuesday 23rd
March – 30th April. The Defence of Barcelona.
1706. Tuesday 20th
April. The Resolution burnt in the presence ot the French squadron.
1706. Monday 26th
April. The relief of Barcelona.
1706. Friday 25th June.
The capitulation of Ostend.
1706. Thursday 12th
August. The Siege of Barcelona and its capitulation to.
1706. Tuesday 14th
September. The Capture of Majorca.
1706. September. Leake
at the Balearic Isles.
1706. December. HMS
Romney cut out a French Ship at Malaga.
1706. Sunday 26th
December. HMS Romney and consort destroyed Content.
1707. January. HMS
Romney captured the Mercure.
1707. Saturday 15th
January. The Battle off St. Estevan. The Marines had a considerable share in
the Victory of St. Estevan. Colonel Wills and his Regiment and other English
and Dutch troops, was attacked with a great superior force by the advanced
guard of the French Army. Wills who was posted on high ground, repulsed his
assailants, who were driven to the plain below in great confusion. The
following day reinforcements came up under Lieutenant General Conyngham, who
assumed command. The same day the French, who were commanded by the Chevalier
D’Asfeldt, returned to the attack in still greater strength, having been also
reinforced. However, again they suffered a most signal defeat, though the
British had to mourn the loss of General Conyngham, who fell mortally wounded.
St. Estevan was perhaps the most complete British Victory in the War.
1707. Saturday 15th January. Marines Caps and the Grenadiers March. An extract from the record of “George the First’s Army,” giving the official account of the battle of St. Estevan, in 1707, when Colonel Sir Charles Wills was in command of his Marine regiment, the First, states :- “Six companies of Marines were ordered to march up the hill in six columns, and to beat the Grenadiers’ March, when in sight of the enemy. These orders were so well executed that at the same moment as our Dragoons entered the plain, killing the enemy’s advanced sentinel, our infantry showed themselves and beat the ‘Grenadiers, March’ upon the hills. The enemy being unused to the uniforms of the Marines, mistook the six companies of Will’s Marines for six companies of the Grenadiers, as the marines wore Grenadiers caps, and knowing there was only one company of Grenadiers in each British foot regiment, they naturally thought that there was a regiment of foot to every company of Grenadiers, and that we had six regiments in the background ready to attack them. Brigadier Wills had laid his trap for them.” Referring to “The Grenadiers’ March” it is stated in a curious old book called “Granger’s Wonderful Museum,” published in 1808, that “Thomas Marshall, aged 106 years, of Plymouth, a Drummer,” died in 1755, and that he “had been ninety years in the Service, and was the first man to beat ‘The Grenadiers’ March.” This famous March, by the way, was for many years the air to which the Royal Marines marched past. In a letter from the late Captain Portlock Dadson, R.M.L.I., he speaks of the Corps as he knew it as a young man, “when ‘The British Grenadiers’ was our Quick Step on all occasions.” (Author Unknown)
1707. Sunday 1st May.
The Scottish Parliament and the English Parliament each passed an Act of
Parliament to simultaneously dissolve and form the new combined Parliament of
the United Kingdom of Great Britain. The new Parliament would sit at the Palace
of Westminster, the home of the old English Parliament. Previous attempts at
union had been made, but this was the first time there was sufficient support
on both sides to make it happen. Put simply, Scotland needed financial support
from England, and the English wanted to ensure that Scotland would not choose a
different monarch. It was not, however, a universal popular move and many
teething troubles had to be overcome as the two different sets of traditions
and practice were merged into one parliament. The few ships belonging to the
Scottish Navy became British and the already blended national ensigns of the
two counties were by proclamation of Friday 8th July ordered to be worn by the
ships of all British subjects in the form of a cannon on a red flag, the Jack
its self being reserved as the peculiar distinction of Queens ships. The union
with Scotland revived an arrangement which had already existed for a short time
under the Commonwealth, but had ceased during Restoration.
1707. Monday 2nd May. A
Portuguese convoy was defeated by Claude de Forbin.
1707. Tuesday 28th
June. The Var. “The enemy had entrenched themselves very strongly on the other
side of the Var, a river that was a league distant from Nice, by extending
their Works above Four Miles from the shore, and these Intrenchments were
guarded by 6 Battalions of Foot, and 800 horses, while Lieutenant General
Dillion, an Irish man, was marching with all expedition to re-inforce them with
12 Fresh Battalions.” “Sir Cloudsley Shovel commanded 4 British Men of War, and
one Dutch, to sail into the Mouth of the Var, attended by 600 Seamen and
Marines in open boats, under the conduct of Sir John Norris. The men of War
came within Musket shot of the enemy’s works, which lay so exposed to our fire,
that their Cavalry and many of their Foot gave way. The Admiral himself
followed Sir John Norris to the place of action, and observing the disorder of
the enemy, commanded him to put to land, and flank them in their intrenchments.
His men advanced in such an undaunted manner, and seemed so intrepid and
fearless, by tossing up their hats in the air, and their loud Halloo’s that the
enemy had not courage enough to stay for them, but fearing to be surrounded,
fled from their works and retired with great Precipitation.” (sic)
1707. Friday July 29th
- 21th August. The Battle of Toulon took place in France during the ‘War of the
Spanish Succession’. In which a French and Spanish force defeated one from
Austria, the Dutch Republic, Savoy and Britain. Prince Eugene tried to take the
French naval port of Toulon. Eugene had crossed the river Var although hampered
by the negligence and inefficiency of Victor Amadeus II of Savoy, had reached
Frejus. He was in touch with the British fleet under Admiral Shovell. However,
Victor Amadeus' procrastination caused further delays, and gave time for the
troops which the Duke of Berwick was sending home from Spain to reinforce
Marshal René de Froulay de Tessé at Toulon before the arrival of the Allies.
Tessé retook the crucial heights of Santa Catarina, which the Allies had
stormed a week earlier; and Eugene, finding his retreat menaced and little
chance of taking Toulon, had to abandon his attempt of Monday 22nd August, and
fall back across the Var, having lost 10,000 men in this ill-fated attempt.
Before Shovell evacuated he bombarded the French harbour and was able to sink
two French ships of the line and severely damage two others. The campaign's
only success was that, in order to prevent their ships falling into the enemy's
hands, the French had sunk their whole squadron of more than forty six ships of
between fifty and 110 guns in the harbour. King Louis XIV gave orders that they
be sunk and later be re-floated. He was concerned that the Royal Navy would
burn the ships, the three deckers would lie with only their upper decks showing
above the water. However, much of the damage sustained was irreparable. It’s
believed that the French Navy lost 15 ships of the line during this operation.
1707. July. Part of a
convoy from Baltic captured by Claude de Forbin.
1707. August. Four French
ships captured off Newfoundland.
1707. Monday 10th
October. The Cumberland, Ruby and Chester captured by Claude de Forbin.
1707. Sunday 23rd
October. The loss of the Association, Eagle, Romney and Firebrand.
1708. Saturday 12th
May. Leake's Fleet took a French frigate and convoy.
1708. Monday 28th May.
Wager's action off Cartagena.
1708. Thursday 2nd
August. The Capture of Cagliari the capital of Sardinia. Marines participated
in the capture and occupation of Caliari in Sardinia, which surrendered after a
night time bombardment.
1708. Friday 14th
September. The Capture of Port Mahon. An Anglo-Dutch naval force under the
command of Lieut. General James Stanhope landed on the island of Minorca and
laid siege to the town of Mahon. Which was taken after a short investment,
capitulating on the Tuesday 18th September.
1708. Tuesday 30th October. The surrender of fort Mahon.
1709. Early. A plan was formed to attack Port Royal in the province of Nova Scotia, at that time in possession of the French. For this purpose, a body of 400 Marines was embarked, and the expedition was entrusted to the joint conduct of Colonel Nicholson of the land forces, and Captain Martin of the navy. The squadron proceeded for Boston, where they were to be reinforced by some ships, and such provincial auxiliaries, as might be ready, or were necessary for this intended conquest.
Here a Council of War was held, which arranged the future operations of a body, now consisting of 2000 men. They reached their destination upon the 24th of September, and the proper ground for landing having been reconnoitred, the debarkation took place on the following day. The enemy opened a heavy fire upon the boats from their guns and mortars, but with little effect. A bomb-vessel drifting up with the tide of flood within reach of the Fort, rendered important service during the two first days, which was spiritedly aided by the military exertions on shore.
Upon the first day of October, the Governor of the Fortress having expressed an inclination to surrender upon terms, they were taken into consideration and agreed to. Here a Garrison of Marines was left. Having thus reduced the place, it was now named Annapolis Royal, in honour of her Majesty, under whose auspices it was conquered. (Chapter 4 ‘An Historical Historical Review of the Royal Marine Corps' by Alexander Gillespie)
1709. Early. The British Nation, ever true to its Allies, often has had cause to complain of a want of this reciprocal honour. Limited in my scope, it belongs not to me to develop errors, and far less to expose such as have arisen from high causes. But, in vindication of the military fame of my country and my corps, I have to regret, that the zealous and gallant services of both should have been unavailingly exerted in the unprosperous views of King Charles upon the Spanish monarchy.
To the want of co-operation and unanimity must be ascribed the many chequered events, and reverses, that marked his royal efforts during this contest. Unsupported by his family, or his nation, whose immediate interests it must have been to place him effectively on that throne, he was exposed to many fatal disappointments when he could not remedy them and was thus often obliged to adopt the measures of necessitous expediency, when he should have been enabled to prosecute the objects of an arranged system.
Early in 1709, the town of Alicant became hard pressed, having sustained a long and obstinate siege against a very powerful force of the combined enemy. The garrison, composed in a great proportion of Marines, exhibited the most heroic perseverance in maintaining the place. Unable to reduce it, the besiegers attempted to undermine the rock upon which the Castle stood, of which they apprized its defenders; but this had no effect upon their resolution. A partial shock, which buried above twenty in its effects, did not intimidate them, and they bravely continued to defend themselves till the fleet, under Sir George Byng, appeared (I believe) on the 4th of April.
General Stanhope, with the troops on board, were to have attempted its relief, under cover of a squadron that was at the same time to have attacked the enemy's lines along the sea shore; but a heavy gale coming on, and many of the ships being in shallow water, it was judged proper to stand farther out into the road.
The weather continuing severe and being unable to gain any intelligence as to the state of the garrison, the Commanders in Chief dreading the worst, and in pity to their sufferings, by a flag of truce, proposed terms of surrender, which being agreed to, the brave remnants were embarked on board of the fleet, which now proceeded to Tarragona, Port Mahon, and afterwards to Barcelona.
During the remainder of this year, nothing farther was attempted by our squadrons, which, in their attached duties, were employed to harass the commerce of our foes, and to protect the convoys of provisions destined wherever necessary.
Upon the 13th of March 1710, Sir John Norris arrived at Port Mahon, as Commander in Chief of the Naval Forces. After having arranged everything, transporting troops to the different quarters, where required, and some inferior attacks upon the enemy, he reached Barcelona upon the 18th of June, in order to concert future operations with his Majesty.
An expedition was meditated against Cette, in the province of Languedoc, where the Troops and Marines were landed upon the 13th of July. The place made but a feeble resistance; and the fort, upon which eighteen pieces of cannon were mounted, surrendered the same day. Major General Seissau, then advancing against Adge with the regiment of Stanhope, and three hundred Marines, that town was delivered up without resistance.
The Isle of Cette, however, was shortly afterwards recovered by the French army stationed in the province under the Duke de Roquelaure; but all our soldiers were previously re-embarked.
Nothing further occurred in 1710, which is in any respect connected with my subject.(Chapter 5 ‘An Historical Historical Review of the Royal Marine Corps' by Alexander Gillespie)
1709. Thursday 24th January. Sir George Rooke, one of Portsmouth's most famous Freemen, before he was made an Admiral, had served as Captain of Marines, and being quartered upon the coast of Essex, the ague made great havoc amongst his men; the Minister of the village where he lay was so harassed with his duty that he refused to bury any more of them without being paid his accustomed fees. The Captain made no words; but the next that died, he ordered the body to be conveyed to the Minister's house and laid upon the table in his great hall; this greatly embarrassed the poor clergyman, who in the fullness of his heart, sent the Captain word; "That if he would cause the dead man to be taken away, he would never more dispute it with him, but would readily bury him and his whole company for nothing."
1709. Saturday 2nd
March. The Assurance and consorts engaged Duguay-Trouin.
1709. Monday 8th April.
The Bristol captured by Duguay-Trouin.
1709. Tuesday 9th
April. Lord Dursley defeated Duguay-Trouin, and re-took the Bristol.
1709. Monday 6th May.
HMS Portland re-captured HMS Coventry.
1709. Saturday 18th
May. HMS Falmouth defended a convoy against 4 French vessels.
1709. June. The Fowey
taken by two French Frigates.
1709. Monday 23rd
September. HMS Plymouth captured the Adriadne.
1709. A plan was formed
to attack Port Royal in the province of Nova Scotia, at that time in possession
of the French. For this purpose a body of 400 Marines was embarked, and the
expedition was entrusted to the joint conduct of Colonel Nicholson of the
land-forces, and Captain Martin of the navy. The squadron proceeded to Boston,
where they were to be reinforced by some ships, and such provincial
auxiliaries, as might be ready, or were necessary for this intended conquest.
Here a Council of War was held, which arranged the future operations of a body,
now consisting of 2000 men. They reached their destination upon the 24th of
September, and the proper ground for landing having been reconnoitred, the
debarkation took place on the following day. The enemy opened a heavy fire upon
the boats from their guns and mortars, but with little effect. A bomb vessel
drifting up with the tide of flood within reach of the Fort, rendered important
service during the two first days, which was spiritedly aided by the military
exertions on shore. Upon the first day of October, the Governor of the Fortress
having expressed an inclination to surrender upon terms, they were taken into
consideration and agreed to. Here a Garrison of Marines was left. Having thus
reduced the place, it was now named Annapolis Royal, in honour of her Majesty,
under whose auspices it was conquered.
1709. October. HMS
Gloucester captured by Duguay-Trouin.
1709. December – Monday
7th April 1710. The Defence of Alicant.
1710. Saturday 3rd May.
HMS Suffolk captured the Gaillard.
1710. Medals were very
sparingly distributed, and there seem to have been no instance whatsoever of their
having been officially given to sea men. For Rear Admiral Dilkes’s destruction
of the French shipping near Grandville in 1703 the Queen ordered gold medals to
be struck for presentation to the Admiral and Officers, but this is almost the
sole example of the kind.
1710. Sunday 13th July.
An expedition was planned and executed against the Isle of Crete in the
province of Languedoc and troops and Marines were landed. The enemy put up a
feeble resistance and the fort upon which was mounted eighteen Cannons,
surrendered the same day. The Regiment of Stanhope, and three hundred Marines
later advanced against Adge, and the town surrender without resistance. The
Isle of Crete was later recovered by the French Army under the Duke of
Roquetaine, after the British troops had previously left.
1710. Tuesday 29th
July. HMS Kent captured the Superbe.
1710. August. HMS Seven
and HMS Portland destroyed French settlements in Newfoundland.
1710. Sunday 5th -
Monday 13th October. The Siege of Port Royal also became known as the Conquest
of Acadia. During the early part of the year a plan had been hatched to attack
Port Royal in the province of Nova Scotia, at that time in possession of the
French. Under the command of Daniel d'Auger de Subercase. For this purpose a
body of six hundred Marines were embarked, and the expedition was entrusted to
the joint conduct of Colonel Nicholson of the Marine forces, and Captain Martin
of the Navy. The squadron proceeded to Boston, where they were reinforced by
some more ships, and provincial auxiliaries. For this intended conquest a
council of war was held, and arrangements were made for the debarkation of a
body consisting of two thousand five hundred men which took place on the
Wednesday 24th September.
There followed a siege that lasted nine days, before
the Governor finally surrendered the fortress, and a garrison of Marines took
possession on the Sunday 13th October. The fortress was also re-named Annapolis
Royal, in honour of Queen Anne in whose reign it was conquered. The siege was
the third British attempt during ‘Queen Anne's War’ to capture the Acadian
capital.
1710. Monday 29th
December. HMS Pembroke and HMS Falcon taken by French Squadron.
1711. In the early part
of the year it was agreed to make an attack on the town of Quebec, the capital
of the French possessions in Canada, for which service Admiral Sir Hovenden
Walker and Major General John Hill were appointed Commanders in Chief, a large
fleet of ships of war formed part of the armament, which was to be further
strengthened by troops from the American colonies, they were directed to
proceed to Boston in New England, and to make arrangements for this
undertaking. They reached Naerlaskel near Boston on the Wednesday 24th June,
and having collected the provincial Corps, and withdrawn the Marines from
Annapolis Royal, which had been occupied by these Corps since its surrender
during 1709, they eventually sailed after many delays on Thursday 30th July.
The expedition did not reach the St. Lawrence river until Friday 21st August,
when it encountered storms, and being furnished with pilots who were unacquainted
with the navigation of that river, eight transports, a store ship, and a sloop
were lost by shipwreck, and upwards of eighty persons, including officers,
soldiers, and women, principally belonging to Colonel Kane's fourth Regiment,
and Colonel Clayton's thirty-seventh Regiment, perished in this fatal service.
A scarcity of provisions had arisen, and it was then determined by a council of
war that further operations should be abandoned. Some of the Corps proceeded to
Annapolis Royal, and the squadron returned to England during October.
1711. Early. It was resolved to attempt the town of Quebec, the capital of the French dominions in Canada, for which service Sir adminadm Walker and General Hill were nominated as Commanders in Chief. A respectable force was appointed, and they were directed to proceed for Boston, in New England, there to arrange everything necessary for this undertaking. They reached Nantasket, near Boston, upon the 24th of June, and having prepared the Provincial Corps, and withdrawn the Marines who garrisoned Annapolis Royal since its surrender, they sailed for the object of their destination, after many delays, upon the 30th of July.
This attempt was rashly adopted, without examining the difficulties it involved. The urgent suggestions of the American Provinces first gave the idea, in order to get rid of a hostile and dangerous neighbour, but their energies were by no means adequate to the extent of their designs. A general ignorance of the navigation of the river St. Laurence very early exposed us to the loss of more than 800 brave men, who perished from this fatal cause, and these sad examples put a period to an expedition formed in misrepresentation and conducted by incapacity.
The whole squadron and forces returned to England on the 9th of October, after having left the provincial auxiliaries upon their own coast. (Taken from Chapter 6 ‘An Historical Historical Review of the Royal Marine Corps' by Alexander Gillespie)
1711. Friday 20th
March. Sir John Jennings arrived at Barcelona in order to assume the command of
the British Fleet. To watch the enemies ports, to distress their trade, and to
keep open the communication of intelligence and supplies for the detached
forces and Allies, were all that he could now attempt in the tottering cause of
King Charles. About this time Joseph Emperor of Germany died whose bequeath of
all his dominions to the Royal Competitor compensated for past struggles, and
averted that blow to his pride which must soon have ensued from the desperate
state of his affairs, by a total dereliction of his object. That event called
upon him to fill the throne of his country; to obey which, his Majesty soon
after embarked on board the English fleet, and was escorted to Italy, His Royal
Consort still remained behind, with a view to inspire a motive for farther
efforts, but the suspension of arms between Great Britain and France put a
period to every active co-operation. The Empress, with her retinue, embarked at
Barcelona, early in 1712, and landed at Genoa upon the 26th March, from where
she pursued her journey towards the destined seat of her power.
After a tedious negotiation, the stages, and detailed terms, of peace was restored by the Treaty of Utrecht, on the 3lst March 1713. Britain retained possession of Gibraltar, Minorca, and Nova Scotia, each conquered during the war, and in effecting all of which the Marine forces, established during the reign of Queen Anne, very essentially contributed.
The
extraordinary expenses of this long war, notwithstanding its duration, did not
exceed forty-four millions, which, considering the immense forces kept on foot,
and the subsidies granted to so many of the Continental Powers, appear but a
small sum.
1711. Friday 27th
March. HMS Exeter and HMS Lion re-captured HMS Pembroke.
1711. HMS Hampton Court
captured the Toulouse.
1711. June. HMS Advice
captured by privateers.
1711. Monday 27th July.
Commodore Littleton captured a Spanish Galleon.
1711. Thursday 15th
October. HMS Edgar blown up at Spithead.
1713. The Marines were
reduced to three Regiments who were transferred to the line to become the 30th
of Foot (a predecessor of the Royal Anglian Regiment), and the 32nd Foot. Only
four Companies of Marine Invalids remained.
1713. Wednesday 1st
March. Peace was restored between Britain and France after signing the treaty
of Utrecht. By this treaty it was settled that Britain should retain possession
of Gibraltar, Minorca, and Nova Scotia. However, the Marines which had been
formed during the Reign of Queen Anne, were ordered to be disbanded. They were
considered to be part of a war establishment, and a spirit of public economy
was needed after the termination of hostilities. However, the consequence was
that the whole of the Marine Regiments were disbanded by the end of the year.
1713. Friday 31st March. Peace was restored by the treaty of Utrecht on the 31st 01 March 1713, allowing England to retain possession of Gibraltar, Minorca, and Nova Scotia, which were the fruits of our conquests during the war; and in effecting which, the Marine regiments established during the reign of Queen Anne essentially contributed. 71. A great reduction of the forces took place during 1714, and the half-pay list for that year exhibits upon it the following regiments of Marines: Lieutenant-general Holl's, Majorgeneral Wills's, Brigadier Barr's, and Lord Viscount Shannon's. In the first year of the government of George I., it was judged proper to grant a signal mark of royal favour, in consideration of the extensive and gallant services of the Marine regiments. Accordingly, all the officers attached to the corps of Lieutenant-general Holl, Major-general Wills, and Brigadier Barr, were restored to their rank and full pay, and were generally incorporated with the different corps of the line. Four invalid companies were also granted; but these regiments were again reduced, and it was not until 1739, when war was declared with Spain, that an order in Council of 12th December directed the immediate levy of six marine regiments, and the following colonels appointed to command them: 1st. Edward Wolfe, Esq. from 3rd Foot Guards; 2d. Wm. Robinson, Esq., Lieutenant-colonel from Handyside's regiment of Foot; 3rd. Anthony Lowther, Esq. from 2d Foot Guard; 4th. John Wynyard, Esq. from Colonel Tyrrell's regiment of Foot; 5th. Charles Douglas, Esq. from Colonel Howard's regiment of Foot; 6th. Lewis Ducie Morton, Esq. from 3rd Foot Guards. To render them immediately effective, and with a view to their perfect discipline, five men from each company of the regiments of Foot Guards were appointed as Serjeants and corporals; and to hasten their completion, a bounty of one pound ten shillings was tendered to the first 1800 men of our regular army who should volunteer for this service. Early in 1740 three additional regiments were raised in America, when the royal standard was displayed at New York, as the port to which every volunteer Marine was to repair.
It was supposed that the natives of that continent were better calculated for the service in that climate than the Europeans, and they were clothed in a manner well adated for their duties. The colonels, lieutenant-colonels, and other commissioned offi- cers were appointed by the Crown, except the captains of companies, who were nominated by the American provinces. Their uniform was camlet coats, brown linen waistcoats, and canvas trovvsers. Colonel Spotiswood of Virginia, was colonel-commandant of the whole. (Volume 1 Historical Records of the Royal Marine Forces by Paul Harris Nicolas Lieut. Royal Marines.)
1713 - 1739. It must be
noted that during this time all sea, and land battles involved Marines.
1714. Saw the formation
of four invalid companies under the establishment of the Army. Apart from these
four Company’s there was no Corps until the outbreak of hostility with Spain
during 1739.
1715 - 1719. The first
Jacobite Rebellion was a political movement in Britain and Ireland that aimed
to restore the Roman Catholic Stuart King James II of England and his heirs to
the thrones of England, Scotland and Ireland.
1715. HMS August and
HMS Garland were wrecked in the Baltic.
1715. A number of officers, however, who drew this recompense from the public, most ingloriously joined the Pretender. The issue being unfortunate for them, they were all taken prisoners, and afterwards tried and executed by martial law; although they might have been capitally convicted as rebels, by the common law of the land.
The expense incurred by one regiment of this description, which will be a guide to the total charge for the whole of them.
One Company Per Day. Per Year.
FIELD and STAFF OFFICERS.
Colonel as Colonel £0-12-0 £219-0-0
Lieut. Col. as Lieut. Col. £0 -7 -0 £127-15-0
Major as Major £0 -5 -0 £91-5-0
Chaplain £0 -6 -8 £121-13-4
Adjutant £0 -4 -0 £73- 0-0
Quartermaster £0 -4 -0 £73-0-0
Chirurgeon £0 -4 -0 £73-0-0
One Mate to ditto £ 0-2-6 £45-12-6
................................................-------- ----------
...............................................£2-5-2 £824-5-10
...........................................======== ==========
One Company per day. per year.
Captain £0-8-0 £146-0-0
First Lieutenant £0-4-0 £73-3-0
Second Lieutenant £0-3-0 54-15-0
2 Serjeants, each 1s-6d £0-3-0 54-15-0
3 Corporals, each 1s £0-3-0 54-15-0
2 Drummers, each 1s £0-2-0 36-10-0
59 Privates, each 8d £1-19-4 £717-16-8
...............................................-------- .... ------------
..............................................£3-2-4 £1,137-11-8
...............................................===== =========
Pay of 10 Comp. more of the}
like number and same rates} £31-3-4 £11,375-16-8
..............................................--------- -------------
..............................................£34-5-8 .. £12,513-8-4
..............................................====== =========
One Company of Grenadiers to complete this Regiment, as follows:
1 Captain £0-8-0 £146-0-0
1 First Lieutenant £0-4-0 £73-0-0
1 Second Lieutenant £0-4-0 £73-0-0
3 Serjeants, each 1s 6d £0-4 -6 £82-2-6
3 Corporals, each 1s £0-3-0 £54-15-0
59 Grenadiers, each 8d £1-19-4 £717-16-8
..................................................---------- -------------
Total this Regiment £39-15-8 £14,520-18-4
.................................................====== ==========
Pay 5 Regiments more, at}
the same rates, &c.} £198-18-4 £72,604-11-8
.................................................---------- -------------
Total for Marines £238-14-0 £87,125-10-0
...............................................======= =========
The six regiments of Foot for sea service were exactly the same numbers and same denominations, excepting as to officers, who among these corps, were detailed as Ensigns instead of Second Lieutenants. Classed under one general head, the twelve regiments cost the public £238-14-0 per day, and £174,251-0-0 per year.
The idea of this class of men being raised with a view of becoming a nursery for the Navy, seems to have been now relinquished, and the following articles for their government and conduct were framed, and adopted, by her Majesty in council, upon the 1st of July 1702.
1st. They were to be employed on board her Majesty's ships as there should be occasion, and quartered at, or as near as might be to the dock-yards, when on shore, to guard them from embezzlements, or any attempts of an enemy.
2nd. In all matters relating to their subsistence and clearings, when on board and on shore, they were to be paid in like manner as the land forces, and the same deductions to be made from them for clothing, and one day's pay, once a year, from each officer and soldier for the hospital.
3rd. They were to be allowed an equal proportion of provisions with the seamen, without any deductions from their pay for the same.
4th. And to have the same allowance for short provisions (when circumstances render the issue of full allowance imprudent) as the seamen, to be paid to themselves, or their assigns.
5th. Such regiments, or parts of them as should be on shore, were to be mustered by a commissary or commissaries in the same manner as the land forces, excepting in this case, that they, the said commissaries, were obliged to allow at each muster on his or their rolls, all such officers and soldiers as should appear to him or them by authentic vouchers, or certificates, to be put on board any of her Majesty's ships or vessels, and that such part of the aforesaid regiments as should be at sea, might be paid while they were so, it was directed, That the commanding Marine Officer with them should, every two months, return to the Commissary General of the Musters a perfect list of all the officers and soldiers on board each ship, signed by himself, and all the Marine Officers, expressing the times of entry, death, and discharge of each man, that so the Commissary might compare the said lists with the monthly books sent to the Navy Office, and allow such of the officers and soldiers as should appear to him fit to be so allowed.
6th. To prevent confusion, not less than fifteen Marine Soldiers, and with them an Officer, were to be put on board a ship, at any one time, unless in cases of necessity.
7th. And for the ease of the whole a particular Pay-master was appointed, with power to solicit the arrears of the regiments, and to receive all sums of money from the Treasurer of the Navy; and immediately upon the receipt thereof, to issue the same to the respective Colonels, or their Agents; he was also required, diligently and carefully to adjust all accounts relating to the regiments, according to such muster rolls as should be delivered to him by the Commissary, or Commissaries; and those muster rolls were to be allowed of, as sufficient vouchers for the charges in the accounts, and for making out debentures and warrants.
8th. To enable the aforesaid Pay-master to keep an Office, and to defray the charge thereof, and of Clerks and other contingencies, he was allowed sixpence in the pound, pursuant to the subscription of the respective Colonels, which he had power to deduct out of all monies issued to him, in the same manner as the poundage was deducted from the land forces.
9th. For rendering such parts of the regiments as should be on shore the more useful, her Majesty declared it should be left to herself, or the High Admiral, to dispose of them at such places nearest to the several dock yards, as might be judged most convenient: And since there might be occasion for Labourers to dispatch necessary works, her Majesty empowered her High Admiral, or the Commissioners for executing that office, to cause to be employed in the aforesaid dock yards, so many of the Marine Soldiers as might be judged fitting, and to make them such daily allowance for the same, besides their ordinary pay, as to him or them should seem reasonable.
Thus, placed under the control of the Lord High Admiral, he was pleased to nominate Brigadier General Seymour to superintend the whole; whose peculiar duties were to observe, that the men were comfortably quartered, that the officers were attentive in their respective departments, and that the Marine Soldiers, when embarked on board of ship, were supplied with proper sea clothes, and other suitable necessaries.
During this reign also, a number of independent companies of Marines was raised for the express purpose of defending our different West India possessions, to which quarter they were sent, were embodied into three regiments, and where they remained many years. (Taken from Chapter 2 'An Historical Review of the Royal Marine Corps' by Alexander Gillespie)
1716. Operations
against the Barary Corsairs.
1718 - 1720. The War of
the Quadruple Alliance was a result of the ambitions of King Philip V of Spain,
his wife Elisabeth Farnese, and their chief minister Giulio Alberoni to retake
lost territories in Italy and to claim the French throne. It saw the defeat of
Spain by an alliance of Britain, France, Austria, and the Dutch Republic. Savoy
later joined the coalition as the fifth ally. Although fighting began as early
as 1717, war was not publicly declared until December 1718. It was brought to
an end by the Treaty of the Hague during 1720.
1718. Thursday 11th
August. Byng's Victory off Cape Passaro.
1719. October. The
Seizure of Vigo.
1720's -1830's. Long
Land Pattern Musket was standard issue for the British Empire's land forces.
1722. April. HMS
Swallow destroyed Roberts Piratical vessels.
