Historical Time Line 1664 - 1674
From an early period, a practice has prevailed in many of the continental armies, for each regiment to keep regular records of its services and achievements but it is only of recent date that this emulative principle has been encouraged in the British service, and hence arises the difficulty of obtaining any authentic account of their origin, or of their subsequent proceedings. 1664. Thursday 16th october. The first order in Council which has reference to this subject, is dated the 16th of October 1664, authorizing 1200 soldiers to be raised and formed into one regiment.
The Royal Marines were formed in 1755 as the Royal Navy's infantry troops. However, the Marines can trace their origins back to the formation of ‘the Duke of York and Albany's Maritime Regiment of Foot’ at the grounds of the Honourable Artillery Company on 28th October 1664. 1664. 11.58am Tuesday 28th
October.
Attending the court at Whitehall on Tuesday 28th of October 1664
was the Kings most excellent Majesty. His Royal Highness the Duke of York. Lord
Chancellor. Lord Treasurer. Duke of Albemarle. Duke of Ormond. Lord
Chamberlain. Earl of Anglesey. Earl of Lauderdale. Earl of Middleton. Lord
Bishop of London. Lord Ashely. Mr. Vice-Chamberlain. Mr. Secretary Morice. Mr
Secretary Bennet. Mr. Chancellor of the Dutchy. Sir Edward Nicholas. It was
this day ordered (His Majesty present in Council) that his Majesties
declaration, for encouragement of sea men and mariners employed in the present
service, be forthwith printed by his Majesties printer, &. Richard Browne.
His Majesties declaration for encouragement of Seamen and Mariners employed in
the present service.
As the Duke of York was the Lord High Admiral, they soon became
known as the Admiral's Regiment, and were paid by the Admiralty. They and their
successors being the only long service troops in the Navy during the 17th and
18th century. They were therefore not only soldiers but also seamen, who were
part of the complement on board all warships. The Honourable Artillery Company
had earlier been formed by Royal Charter under King Henry Vlll on Wednesday
25th August 1537. The second oldest military organisation in the world.
Recruitment was from the 'London Trained Bands', the City of
London’s militia, composed of house holders who fulfilled their statutory
obligation to maintain arms and serve in the defence of their City. They were
under the jurisdiction of the Lord Mayor and were commanded by officers
appointed by him and the Aldermen. Members of the Trained Bands met regularly
at the Artillery Garden in Bishopsgate and the Military Garden in St Martin’s
in the Field to practice weapon handling, drilling and other military
activities under the guidance of officers from the Honourable Artillery
Company. These officers made the Trained Bands an effective force, providing
professional training for its part time members.
They were the fourth European Marine unit formed, being preceded
by the Spanish Marines who were formed on Saturday 27th February 1537, the
Portuguese Marines in 1610, and the French Marines who were formed in 1622.
The Admiral's Regiment consisted of six 200 man companies and
was initially commanded by Colonel Sir William Killigrew with Sir Charles
Lyttleton as Lieutenant-Colonel. Killigrew had commanded an English Regiment in
Dutch service and many of the Regiment's initial complement of officers had
served there as well.
Until the year 1664 the British Navy was manned by means of the
system of impress, or by enlisting landsmen; but the commerce of England at
that period was so limited, that those measures were found inadequate to
procure sufficient seamen for the public service, and this difficulty suggested
the formation of an establishment of Marines. The men were raised with the
object of forming a nursery to man the fleet and being quartered in or near the
principal sea-ports, their great utility in the equipment of squadrons soon
made it desirable to augment their strength.
Initially all Marine field officers were taken from the Royal
Navy, not liking that the Marine field officer was nearly all honorary. This
meant that until then Marine officers could only advance up to the rank of
Captain, or possibly a Major. A situating that continued into the1800s.
During King William III rein, each company of Infantry (except
the Fusiliers and Grenadiers) consisted of 14 Pikemen and 46 Musketeers, the
Captains carried Pikes, Lieutenants and Partisans, Half-Pikes, while Sergeants
carried Halberds.
Marines served on board all Royal Navy ships and have been
involved in all of the sea battles that have taken place around the world right
up to the modern day.
1664. Wednesday 5th November.
"Colonel Killigrew was duly appointed to the command of the Regiment, His
Majesty; reposing special trust and confidence in your loyalty, & have
thought fit to constitute and appoint you to be Colonel of the Admirals
Regiment of Foot now forthwith to be raised for our service consisting of six
companies, receiving also, as was the custom at that period, a second
commission of the same date to command a company in his own Regiment."
As will be seen in Colonel Killigrew’s commission no mention is
made that the Regiment is raised for sea service, but merely "for our
service". The remaining officers appointed on the same day were Sir
Chichester Rey a Lieutenant Colonel, Sir Charles Littleton a Major, John
Griffin a Captain, John Legge a Captain, Nath Dorrell a Captain, Thomas Bennet
a Lieutenant, and Richard Dennis a Lieutenant. And all ye commissions were
styled by ye Adms Regt. 1664. Sunday 61th November. The first muster was as
follows:
Colonel - Sir William Killigrew, Vice Chamberlain to the Queen
Lieutenant Col - Sir Chichester Wrey
Major - Sir Charles Littleton
Captains.
Sir William Killigrew. Sir
Chichester Wrey. Sir Charles Littleton. John Griffith. John Legge. Nathaniel Dorrell.
Lieutenants.
Thomas Bennet. Martin
Gardiner. Edward Talbot. Godfrey Dennis. Charley Cole. Henry Steward.
2nd/Lieutenants.
Phillip Bickerstaff 1. Francis
Hoblin. John Snelling. Arthur Ingram 2. David Hume. Robert Thompson.
Quartermaster John Symonds.
Chirugeon Simon Boninga.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Chaplain Rev John Evans.
1 Clerk for all the particular offices. 2 Supernumerary Groom of
the Privy Chamber.
The Regiment consisted of twelve companies, without any
grenadiers, had yellow coats lined with red, and their colours were a red
cross, with rays of the sun issuing from each of its angles. It stood the third
in seniority in the line of that day, and it may be presumed, from its
subsequent reduction that a step was obtained in it by the 4th, then the
Regiment of Holland, Commanded by John, the second Lord Mulgrave, and now
entitled The Old Buffs.
1664. Wednesday 19th December.
The attack on the Dutch Smyrna fleet in the straights bt allin.
1664. Wednesday 31st December.
The Nominal State of Officers of the Admirals Regiment with commission dates.
Colonel - Sir William Killigrew, Knt. and Bart.
Lieutenant Col - Sir Chichester Wrey, Knt.
Major - Sir Charles Littleton, Knt.
Adjutant - Mat Locke.
Captains.
Sir William Killigrew 5th November 1664. Sir Chichester Rey 5th November 1664. Sir Charles Littleton 5th November 1664. John Griffiths 5th November 1664. John Legge (Colonel) 5th November 1664. Nathaniel Dorrell 5th November 1664.
Lieutenants.
Thomas Bennet. 5th
November 1664. Martin Gardiner 11th
November 1664. Edward Talbot 11th
November 1664. Godfrey Dennis 11th
November 1664. Charles Cole 11th
November 1664. Henry Steward 11th
November 1664.
2nd/Lieutenants.
Phillip Bickerstaffe 11th November 1664. Francis Hoblin 11th November 1664. John Snelling 11th November 1664. Arthur Ingram 11th November 1664. David Hume 11th November 1664. Robert Thompson 11th November 1664.
Quartermaster and Marshall - John Symonds (11th November 1664).
Chirugeon - Simon Boninga (11th November 1664).
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Chaplin - Rev. John Evans (11th
November 1664).
Note - an officer of the name of Collins appears to have been
appointed as a Lieutenant to Captain Dorrell, dated 11th November, but not to
have joined the Regiment.
1664. During this period any reference can be found to an establishment of soldiers embarked on board the ships of the royal navy which can be traced in the records of the Admiralty, is the following Order in Council of His Majesty King Charles II., dated 26th October, 1644: — "Upon Report from the Lords Commissioners for the Affayres of His Majesty e's Navy Royall and Admiralty of this Kingdom, this day read at the Board, His Majesty was pleased to order and direct (amongst other things) that twelve hundred land soldiers be forthwith raised, to be in readiness to be distributed into His Majestye's Fleets, prepared for sea; which said twelve hundred men are to be put into one Regiment, under one Collonell, one Lieutenant-Collonell, and one Sergeant-Major, and to be divided into six Companies, — each Company to consist of two hundred souldiers, and to have one Captaine, one Lieutenant, one Ensign, one Drum, ffoure Serjeants, and fToure -Corporalls, and all the souldiers aforesaid to be armed with good firelocks ; all which arms, drums, and colours are forthwith to be prepared and furnished out of His Majestye's Stores : the care of all which is recommended to the Duke of Albemarle His Grace, Lord Generall of His Majestye's Forces." 1664. Equipment. “A difference
was also made in the equipment of the force, and it stands out pre-eminently as
the first Regiment under the crown which was armed throughout with firelocks
and not, as was the rule of the service at this period, with a considerable
proportion of pikes. Instructions were accordingly issued for delivering “to
our trusty and well beloved Sir William Killigrew, Knt, Colonel of the Admirals
Regiment of Foote now to be raised for our service Twelve Hundred Good Firelocks,
with the like number of good Bandoleers, Twenty Fower Halberts and six Drumes
being for the use of the said Regiment”. A footnote to this Warrant adds that
1200 Snaphaunch Musquettes were “Delivered by virtue of the Warrant above
written”.
There is however no note stating at what station or port, or to
whom these stores were to be delivered, although by a Warrant of a similar
nature bearing the same date and completing the armament of the Regiment, we
find that there is to be forthwith issued out “of our Tower of London for the
Admirals Regiment, 1200 Swords and Belts, thirty barrels of bullets, and two
Hogsheads of flints which together with the arms formerly by us directed to be
delivered for your use of your Regiment you are with all diligence to cause to
be conveyed by such way as you shall find most convenient on board our fleet to
be there delivered to Sir Charles Littleton, Knt, Major of the Admirals Regt
being for your use thereof.” (sic)
1664. Friday 19th December. Sir
Thomas Allin, 1st Baronet (1612 - 1685) attacks the Dutch Smyrna fleet in the
Straits of Gibraltar. Allin had been nominated to succeed Sir John Lawson as
the commander in the Mediterranean. On Thursday 26th June 1664 he sailed to
take up his command aboard HMS Plymouth in company with HMS Crown. Upon their
arrival they initially operated out of Tangiers, and while operating in the
Straits of Gibraltar he and his fleet intercepted and engaged the Dutch Smyrna
fleet, capturing and sinking several of the Dutch ships. He was born and grew
up in the Lowestoft area, becoming a merchant and ship owner. Upon the outbreak
of the English Civil War in 1642, Allin sided with the Royalists, in common
with most of his fellow town’s folk. On Saturday 13th June 1665 he took part in
the sea battle off Lowestoft. (sic)
1664 - 1689. The Duke of York and
Albany's Maritime Regiment of Foot the Lord High Admirals Regiment Crest.
(taken from 'History of the Royal Marine Forces 1664 - 1701' by Major l. Edye
1893.)
Officers and Soldiers Uniforms of the 1600's. (taken from
'History of the Royal Marine Forces 1664 - 1701' by Major l. Edye 1893.)
Officer and Soldier
1665. Monday 16th February.
Shortly after the return of the fleet to England, the Regiment was moved from
Southampton, the several companies being stationed as follows: Sir
William Killigrew’s Company at Southampton except 50 men of which are at
Winchester and 150 at Ramsey.
Sir
Chichester Wray’s Company at Southwarke.
Sir
Charles Littleton’s Company at Dover and Canterbury.
Sir
John Griffith’s Company at Rochester and Gravesend.
Colonel John Legg’s at Harwiche, although by the 3rd April they
were at Ipswich.
Captain Dorrel’s Company on the Isle of Wight.
The change of Commanding Officer, the actual date of the death
of the first Commanding officer of the Admirals Regiment, Sir William
Killigrew, is not known, but he was buried in the north aisle of Westminster
Abbey on 17th July 1665. On the following day (18th July 1665) Sir Chichester
Wrey was appointed to the command of the Regiment. (sic)
1665. Wednesday 4th March -
Friday 31st July 1667. Owing to the commercial rivalry between the English and
Dutch the Second Anglo-Dutch War took place after hostilities had begun earlier
the previous year after the English had captured New Amsterdam (New York).
1665. April. The Black Death
struck London, killing at least 68,596 people as some two-thirds of the 460,000
inhabitants fled to the country side. One of the last outbreaks in England,
which also contributed to Britain’s problems and manpower in Europe.
1665. Wednesday 3rd June (OS). Defeat of Obdam van Wassenaer by the Duke of York. The Admiral's Regiment first saw action at sea against the Dutch in the Battle of Lowestoft (Suffolk). Both fleets are reported to have been about 100 strong. However, the English claimed to have won a victory over the Dutch. So fierce was the engagement that both fleets were incapable of further operations. Unlike some land Regiments equipped with pikes and matchlocks, the Admiral’s Regiment fought with better flintlock muskets. The Dutch paid a heavy price in its large loss of ships, and of officers and men totalling 4000 killed and 2000 captured. While the British losses were 250 men killed, about 340 wounded, and about 200 taken prisoner. (sic) 1665. Saturday 11th July. The Holland Regiment (later the Buffs) was also raised to serve at sea and both of these two Naval Regiments were paid for by the Treasurer of the Navy by Order of Council of 11th July. They were also different in that they had no pike men, every man being issued a musket. The Holland Regiment remained on the naval establishments until May 1667. The name 'Marines' first appeared in official records in 1672. (sic) 1665. Wednesday 3rd September.
Lord Sandwich captures the Dutch East India Fleet.
1665. During the Battle of
Lowestoft one of England’s ally’s the small principality of Munster sent some
of its troops into Dutch territory to assist the English.
1665. Just after the Battle of
Lowestoft the Dutch were so impressed by the performance of the British Marines
that they formed their own Royal Netherlands Marine Corps.
1665. Thursday 31st December. The
Nominal State of Officers of the Admirals Regiment with commission dates.
Colonel - Sir Chichester Wrey, Knt.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Charles Littleton, Knt.
Major - Colonel Sir John Legge.
Captains.
Sir Chichester Wrey 18th July 1665. Sir Charles Littleton 18th July 1665. John Legge (Colonel) 18th July 1665. Sir John Griffiths 18th July 1665. Nathaniel
Dorrell 18th July 1665. Thomas Bennet 18th
July 1665.
Lieutenants.
Martin Gardener 18th July 1665. Edward Talbot 18th July 1665. Charles
Cole 18th July 1665. Henry Steward 18th
July 1665. Francis Hoblin 2nd December
1665. Phillip Bickerstaffe 18th July
1665.
2nd/Lieutenants.
Arthur Ingram 2nd December 1665. John Snelling 18th July 1665. David
Hume 18th July 1665. Robert Thompson
18th July 1665. John Griffith 2nd
December 1665. Robert Carvey 18th July
1665.
Adjutant - Mat Locke (11th November 1664).
Quartermaster and Marshall - John Symonds (11 November 1664).
Chirugeon - Simon Boninga (11th November 1664).
Chaplin - Rev. John Evans (11th November 1664).
1666. January. The principality
of Munster was forced out of the war by France, who eventually took the Dutch
side.
1666. Most Battles during 1666
were won by the Dutch.
1666. Tuesday 1st June - Friday 4th June (OS). The Four Days Fight off
North Foreland. The English commanded by George Monk and the Dutch Commanded by
Michael de Ruyter were involved in a four day battle near North Foreland off
the English coast. In which the Dutch were the victors. It remains one of the
longest naval engagements in history. The English casualties were 1,500 killed,
1,400 wounded, 1,800 captured and 10 ships lost. While the Dutch suffered 1,500
killed, 1,300 wounded and 4 ships lost.(sic)
1666. Sunday 25th July (OS). An engagement with the Dutch known as the ‘St. James Fight’. Prince Rupert of the Rhine and George Monck 1st Duke of Albemarle won a victory over the Dutch Commanded by Michael de Ruyter during the St James’s day Battle off the coast of North Foreness, (later to be known as Orfordness). It is also known as the Second Battle of North Foreness. The Battle altered the balance of power at sea in favour of the English. The Dutch fleet lost 2 ships and around 800 men were killed or injured. The English suffered 300 killed and the loss of one ship the ‘Resolution’ However, it demonstrated its new dominance in the area. (sic) 1666. Sunday 8th August (OS). Sir
Robert Holmes and his English fleet destroyed more than 160 Dutch merchantmen
vessels on the Vile River in the Nederland’s. It became known as Sir Robert
Holmes Bonfire.
1666. Thursday 2nd September -
Sunday 5th September: The Great Fire of London destroyed four-fifths of the
city within the walls and sixty-three acres outside. Including the Gothic Cathedral
of Saint Paul’s, eighty-six other churches, the Guildhall, the Custom House,
the Royal Exchange, and many other buildings, including more than thirteen
thousand houses. The fire also destroyed many files, documents, books and other
historical information including that of the Marines. It also contributed to
England’s problems within Europe.
1666. Saturday 18th September.
The capture of the French Ruby by Sir Thomas Allin.
1666. December. Captain Herbert
and HMS Pembroke engaged a Dutch Frigate.
1666. December. A British Squadron defeated the Dutch in the North Sea.
1666. Friday 31st December. The
Nominal State of Officers of the Admirals Regiment with commission dates:
Colonel - Sir Chichester Wrey, Knt and Bart.
Lieutenant Colonel – Sir Charles Littleton, Knt.
Major - Colonel Sir John Legge.
Captains.
Sir Chichester Wrey 18th July 1665. Sir Charles Littleton 18th July 1665. John Legge (Colonel) 18th July 1665. Sir John Griffiths 18th July 1665. Nathanial Dorrell, 18th July 1665. Thomas Bennet 18th July 1665. Sylas Titus 2nd July 1666. George Cartwright 3rd July 1666. Sir Edward Carleton 4th July 1666. Edmund Molroyen 5th July 1666. Hercues Lee 6th July 1666. Thomas Bromley 7th July 1666.
Lieutenants.
Martin Gardiner 18th July 1665. Edward Talbot 18th July 1665. William
Legge 22nd March 1666. Francis Hoblin
2nd December 1665. John Snelling 21st
March 1666. Phillip Bickerstaffe 18th
July 1665. Moyal 2nd July 1666. William Morice 3rd July 1666. John Wise 4th July 1666. Francis Izod 8th July 1666. Bourchier Wrey 6th July 1666. John Grove 7th July 1666.
2nd/Lieutenants.
Richard Baggott 24th March 1666. David Hume 18th July 1665. John
Griffith 2nd December 1665. Robert
Thompson 18th July 1665.
Robert Carey 18th July 1665. Francis Vincent 2nd July 1666. Edward
Harris 3rd July 1666. Richard Sheldon 4
Jul 1666. William Heydon 5th July 1666. James Webb 6th July 1666. Percy Kirk 7th July 1666. Adjutant - William Pierson (June 1666).
Quartermaster and Marshall - John Symonds (11th November 1664).
Chirugeon - Samuel Tatham (14th September 1666). Lieutenant.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Chaplin - Rev. John Evans (11th
November 1664).
1667. Monday 17th January. An
order was given to Sir Chichester Wrey to direct 'the officers of the Admirals
Regiment to collect and send to the stores in the tower their supernumerary
Armes the Regiment now consisting of 12 companies 100 men in each instead of 6
companies, 350 men in each as formerly'.
1667. Tuesday 3rd May. Mention is
made of two companies of the Regiment changing their quarters. One paper,
dated, Yarmouth 3rd May, says that, Capt. Thomas Brumbly RN is paying his
sowagers quorters and as soon as they can (will) march to Langley fort. A
second dated West Cowes, 4th May, say that at “about 3 or 4 o clock afternoon
departed from hence to Guernze the Deptford catch with Sir Edward Charleton and
100 brave soldier's yellow coats, of HRH Regiment who were one night here on
shore for refreshment and I hope are now safely landed at Guernze” (Note all
spelling correctly copied).
The ship in which these men took passage appears to have been HMS Paradox and not the Deptford
Catch, although the latter vessel accompanied them, for in a letter of Mr John
Lyle to Mr Secretary Williamson, dated also from West Cowes, it is said “The Paradox, carrying over a company of
the Duke of York’s yellow coats to Guernsey, had a hot dispute with a French
fly boat of 14 guns, and drove her on the French coast”, and another letter of
the 12th May declares that “The Paradox which ye Ketch that carried soldiers for the islands of Jersey and Guernsey are
returned, the first had an encounter with a doger French of warre but the wind
blew so hard and the sea was some high could not board her, the Paradox had
100 soldiers besides their owne company and they plyed their small shot lustily
, one of them was killed and six more wounded”. This is the first occasion on
record of any of the men of the Regiment having been specifically mentioned
either as killed or as wounded. (Note all spelling copied correctly)
Whilst Sir Charles Littleton’s company was quartered at Harwich,
a misfortune occurred to his “Ensigne”. Of this Sir Charles himself gives the
following quaint account, “My ensigne went to London with my leave, about a
weeke after I came hither, for 8 days, and is not yet returned. The last post I
had a letter to excuse it, because he was sick; but since, I am well informed,
hee has married a dirty tapstresse, and, this being knowne, have an opinion he
is ashamed to return among us. For other reasons I am not much in love with his
companie, and would be glad to bee ridde of him; yet am not resolved to add to
his misfortune by turning him out against his will” The young officer referred
to was Ensign David Hume, who was, on 28th August superseded in Sir Charles
company by Ensign Charles Palmer so that the Colonel had not long to wait “to
bee ridde of him”(sic)
1667. Thursday 24th May - 2nd May
1668. War of Devolution. Came about after Louis XlV’s French army over run the
Habsburgh controlled Spanish Netherlands and French Comte but were forced to
give most of it back by the triple alliance of England, Sweden and the Dutch
Republic. Although the alliance never engaged in combat against France, but it
was enough of a threat to force Louis XlV to halt his offensive and sign the
Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle with Spain on Wednesday 2nd May 1668 in Aachen North
Rhine-Westphalia Germany.
1667. It was directed that men
absenting themselves from vessels that were fitting, should have 2 shillings
and 6 pence for each day of absence deducted from their pay, and that the fines
should be given to the men who remained on duty.
1667. Wednesday 11th May.
Uniform. A letter from John Lyle to Mr Secretary Williamson, we find HMS
Paradox carrying over a company of the Duke of York’s yellow coat had a hot
dispute with a French fly boat.”
1667. Thursday 9th - 14th June (OS). The destruction of the English fleet while docked in Chatham by the Dutch, sometimes miss known as a Battle of the Medway. Two years earlier during 1665, the Dutch fleet under the command of the same Dutch Admiral de Ruyter, had almost completely destroyed the English navy in a murderous four day long battle that neither would break off the action. Now, almost two years to the day, on 7th June, De Ruyter was back and this time there was no British Navy to face him, for England was almost bankrupt and there was no money to pay for a navy. Instead King Charles II had gambled on an early peace that was not to be. For three days the 70 Dutch ships of the line prowled the English coast as if taunting their foe. For the first and only time since Britain had been a world power, an enemy appeared inside within country’s borders. On both sides of the river Thames, scratch forces brought up to fight could only stand and watch as the Dutch sailed past. Muskets could not even reach the jeering Dutchmen on board, and the English land cannons were silent after their small stock of powder had run out. Having humbled British sea pride and proved the English Channel was a Dutch controlled waterway, De Ruyter turned his attention to the toothless English fleet. His men had already stormed and captured Sheerness, then a castle on the isle of Sheppey. Twenty Dutch ships sailed into the Medway, and when they left, five great English ships of the line were in flames and HMS Royal Charles, the British flagship was towed away captive. De Ruyter withdrew having accomplished what he had set out to do, and that was to prove that Holland was still capable of fighting and a country not to be messed with. (sic) 1667. Thursday 16th June (O.S.)
The London Gazette, this is the first report published of the Raid on the
Medway.
"The Dutch fleet having the tenth instant in the evening
made themselves master of Sheerness. On the eleventh they advanced up the river
of Medway, and though with much difficulty, passed by several vessels which had
been sunk about Muselebank, which was the narrowest part of it, the better to
put some stop to them in their passings and with 22 sail came up towards the
chain, where the Lord General was in person with considerable force to oppose
them; but the enemy taking advantage of an Easterly wind and the tide, which
both served them, pressed upon; and though their first ship stuck upon the
chain, the second broke through it; and notwithstanding a stout resistance, in
which our men showed infinite courage, with considerable loss to the enemy, yet
they clasped their fire ships aboard the Matthias and the Unity, that lay at an
anchor, as a guard to the chain, and then upon the Charles the fifth, all three
of them Dutch ships, that had been formerly taken from them. The same day they
possessed themselves of the Royal Charles, which was twice fired by our men,
and as often quenched by the enemy.
On Thursday the 13th instant, about one o'clock, taking their
advantage of the wind and tide, they advanced with six men of war, and five
fire ships, and came up towards Upnor Castle, but were so warmly entertained by
Major Scot, who commanded there, and on the other side by Sir Edward Spragg,
from the battery at the shore, that after very much damage received by them in
the shattering of their ships, in sinking several of their long boats manned
out by them, in the great number of their men killed, and some prisoners taken,
they were at the last forced to retire, having in this attempt spent in vain
two of their fire ships, which attempted HMS
Royall Oake, but were forced off, and burned down with effect; but a
third had its effect, the two others coming also aboard HMS Royall James, and HMS
Loyal London, which are much injured by the fire, but in probability may
be again made serviceable, having been sunk before their coming up, and the
greater part of the laid under water.
Since this they have not made any considerable attempt, and by
some prisoners we have taken, we find that the loss we have received, has been
hitherto so fully returned upon them, that they can have but little reason to
brag of their success, and less encouragement to make any further attempts on
these parts.
Part of the enemy's fleet had since this action continued about
Musele-Bank, where on Friday were seen 24 sail, on Saturday only 14, which 'tis
believed stay there only to get off HMS
Royall Charles which is on shore.(sic)
1667. Friday 17th June (O.S.).
About 30 more of their fleet were discovered between the Buoy of the Nore, and
on Saturday only 12 in the Buoy of the Nore, the rest being fallen down, and it
is thought will attempt no farther this way. However, our batteries are all in
the necessary places, both in the Thames and Medway, very well perfected and
furnished with cannon.
This day we are confidently told by a person arriving here from
Chatham, that yesterday two Dutch men of war, whereof one of 80 guns,
endeavouring to pass up towards Upnor Castle, ran ashore and were by a fire
ship of their own party burnt, to prevent their falling into our hands. He says
further, that eight of their man of war were yesterday endeavouring to tow off HMS Royal Charles from the
Musele-Bank, and are their run aground; upon which news twenty of their men of
war are returning to lie in the river, to prevent out fire ships, till they can
find some way to bring them off, or otherwise to dispose of them.”(sic)
1667. Wednesday 20th June.
Uniform. It was stated: “Yesterday the enemy was in sight off the North
Foreland. Colonel Titus and the commander Captain John Poole are very active.
In less than two hours, the townsmen, both seamen and landsmen appeared in the
field in arms, 160 in all, besides Colonel Titus’ yellow company.” Colonel
Titus was a Captain in the Admirals Regiment.
1667. Saturday 25th June. Burning
of a French Squadron at Martinique by Harman.
1667. The Defeat of the
Franco-Dutch by Captain Berry on board the HMS Nevis.
1667. Friday 1st July. The Dutch
Admiral de Ruyter having withdrew from his recent success at Chatham, appeared
during the evening along with the bulk of a Dutch invasion fleet anchored of
the Aldeburgh coast (Suffolk UK).
1667. In the military town and
port of Harwich (county of Essex) were garrisoned four companies Commanded by
Cardinal Legge, Sir Chichester Wrey, Charles Lyttelton, and Captain Edward
Roscarrock, while on the other side of the river entrance was Landguard Fort
that was occupied by Captain Nathaniel Darrell and Captain Cartwright along
with their companies of Marines. It had been pre-planned that the entrance to
Harwich harbour was to be blocked by seven colliers and a ship of 20 guns, all
disguised as men of war, while displaying Jack Ensigns and Pendants, which were
moored between Landguard Fort and Harwich. Holes had been pre-cut in their
hulls, ready to be scuttled and sunk in case the enemy attempted to sail up the
river and approach the port of Harwich. Unbeknown to the English, the Dutch had
decided to Capture Landguard Fort thus enabling them to bombard Harwich from
across the river.
1667. Saturday 2nd July. At dawn the Dutch fleet raised anchor and headed south passing Orfordness at 7am. Its intention was to attack the military base at Harwich. By 1pm the major part of the force which consisted of forty seven ships and tenders, drew within half gunshot of the shore near Flistow Cliffs (Felixstowe), but out of reach of Landguard Fort. The ships took up their positions to bombard the Fort from all sides. Some of them were placed exactly to wind ward, so that the smoke of their guns swept along the beach and in doing so covered the landing of their troops from the sight of the Marines in the Fort. Once in position they lowered their boats and threw ashore about three thousand men. They wasted no time in delivering two successive assaults on Landguard Fort, in which 300 to 400 men took part. The first was repulsed after three quarters of an hour’s fighting. The second after only about a quarter of an hour. Finally the Dutch, after losing about one hundred and fifty men, left their scaling ladders behind them in their haste to escape the fighting. In the meantime the thousand to twelve hundred men who had been left near the place of landing were attacked by the trained bands under the command of the Earl of Suffolk. The struggle with them was continued in a desultory manner, when the routed Dutch returned from the attack on the Fort. They then managed, after considerable loss, to re-embark. Just after a detachment of five hundred foot soldiers, under command of Major Legge arrived from Harwich. However, the fight was already over. It was reported at the time that neither Legge nor the Earl of Suffolk could be credited with the honour of having saved Landguard Fort. That credit had to go to Captain Nathaniel Darrell of the Duke of York and Albany’s Regiment of Foot, and to his gallant Marines. Darrell the Governor of Landguard Fort, had only one month earlier received the post. However, he was slightly wounded during the attack. While the family of Darrell-Blount captured one of the painted ladders abandoned by the Dutch on the beach. The Dutch landing had been commanded by Colonel Dolman, an English man who had changed sides to assist the Dutch. The same person who had earlier helped the Dutch capture the Fort of Sheerness. It was later reported by a local newspaper that the Dutch losses were 150 killed wounded or captured, while the British suffered only about 4 killed and as many wounded. This invasion by the Dutch was also the first time the Admiral's Regiment of Foot saw action on land. It was also the last time an invasion force set foot on British soil.(sic) 1667. Sunday 31st July. The
Second Dutch War ended (1665 - 1667) after the signing of the Treaty of Breda.
The signing took place in the Dutch city of Breda, by England, the United
Provinces (Netherlands), France, Denmark and Norway. It brought a hasty end to
the hostility’s in favour of the Dutch.
1667. Saturday 31st December. The
Nominal State of Officers of the Admirals Regiment with commission dates.
Colonel - Sir Chichester Wrey, Knt and Bart
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Charles Littleton, Knt.
Major - Sir John Griffiths, Knt.
Captains.
Sir Chichester Wrey 18th July 1665. Sir Charles Littleton 18th July 1665. Sir John Griffiths. 26th September 1667. Nathaniel Dorrell 18th July 1665. Thomas Bennet 18th July 1665. Sylas Titus 2nd July 1666. George Cartwright 3rd July 1666. Sir Edward Carleton 4th July 1666. Thomas Bromley 7th July 1666. Edward Roscarrock 8th January 1667. Henry Herbert 15th January 1667. Roger Vaughan21st September 1667.
Lieutenants.
Martin Gardiner 18th July 1665. George Littleton 22nd February 1667. William Legge 22nd March 1666. Robert
Thompson 30th April 1667. Phillip
Bickerstaffe 18th July 1665. John Titus.
22nd November 1666. William Morice 3rd
July 1666. John Wise 4th July 1666. John Grove 7th July 1666. Richard Baggott 26th August 1667. Francis Izod 8th July 1666. Wise 21st September 1667.
2nd/Lieutenants.
Edward Harris 26th August 1667. Charles Palmer 26th August 1667. John
Griffith 2nd December 1665. Alexander
Frazier 28th August 1667. John Trevanyen
26th September 1667. Francis Vincent 2nd
July 1666. Robert Kilver 8th May 1667. Richard Sheldon 4th July 1666. Percy Kirk 7th July 1666. Edward Chichester 26 Sep 1667. William Heydon 5th July 1666. Roger Vincent 21st September 1667.
Adjutant - William Pierson (June 1666).
Quartermaster and Marshall - John Symonds (11th November 1664).
Chirugeon - Samuel Tatham (14th September 1666).
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Chaplin - Rev. John Evans (11th
November 1664).
1667. For Those of the Portsmouth Division 1668. Sunday 1st April. A
subsequent Order in Council, authorised the drawing of such numbers of soldiers
from the Foot Guards, for His Majesty's service at sea, during the summer, as
the Lord High Admiral might require.
1668. Monday 14th May. Within 3 years of the death of Sir William Killigrew the regiment lost its second commanding officer, who died on 14th May (1668) in London “of a long ague and fever contracted at Sheerensse”. The document from which this quotation is taken says further that “the regiment is bestowed on Sir Charles Littleton his Lieut Collon” (Note spelling copied correctly) (sic) 1668. Wednesday 26th September. A
new establishment was sanctioned, to take effect on the 26th of that month. In
connection with it here was published the strength of the “addicons since the
dutch warre” from which we find that the two maritime regiments consisting of
26 companies contained 256 officers and 2,600 soldiers. The extraordinary
disproportion of officers is accounted for by the fact that the
non-commissioned officers of the two regiments were included. The 26 companies
were composed of 12 companies of the Admirals’ Regiment and 10 of the Holland
Regiment, and the two companies (No record exists of anyone being appointed
to these new companies) added to each under the authority dated 13th June
1667, the total cost of them being set forth as £33,855. 18s. 8d.
The new establishment provided that the Lord High Admiral’s
Regiment of Foot was to consist as before of 12 companies, but did not refer in
any way to the strength. Another document, however, remedies this defect, and
tells us that it was “seaven hundred and sixty soldiers in 12 companies of
sixty in each, and the other company (being quartered in Guernsey) to consist
of one hundred”. For the first time provision was made amongst the “Fielde and
Staffe officers” for an adjutant with pay of 4s per diem. (Note spelling
copied correctly).(sic)
1668. Monday 31st December.
Nominal State of Officers of the Admirals Regiment with commission dates. 1668.
Monday 31st December. Nominal State of Officers of the Admirals Regiment with
commission dates.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Charles Littleton, Knt.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir John Griffiths, Knt.
Major - Nathaniel Dorrell.
Captains
Sir Charles Littleton 15th February 1668. Sir John Griffiths 15th February 1668. Nathaniel Dorrell 15th February 1668. Thomas Bennet 18th July 1665. Sylas Titus 2nd July 1666. George Cartwright 3rd July 1666. George Cartwright 3rd July 1666. Sir Edward Carleton 4th July 1666. Thomas Bromley 7th July 1666. Edward Roscarrock 8th January 1667. Henry Herbert 15th January 1667. Roger Vaughan. 21st September 1667. Sir Boucher Wrey. 15th May 1668.
Lieutenants.
George Littleton 10th June 1668. William Legge 24th March 1666. Robert
Thompson 30th April 1667. Phillip
Bickerstaffe 18th July 1665. John Titus
22nd November 1666. William Morice 3rd
July 1666. John Wise 4th July 1666. John Grove 7th July 1666. Richard Baggott 26th August 1667. Francis Izod. 8th July 1666. Roger Wise. 7th July 1667. Martin Gardiner. 18th July 1665.
2nd/Lieutenants.
Charles Palmer 26th August 1667. John Griffith 2nd December 1665. Alexander
Frazier 28th August 1667. John Trevanyen
26th September 1667. Francis Vincent 2nd
July 1666. Robert Kilvert 8th May 1667. Richard Sheldon 4th July 1666. Percy Kirk 7th July 1666.
Edward Chichester 26th September 1667. Robert Markham. 25th March 1668. Thomas Cutler 17th August 1668. Edward Harriss 21st August 1667.
Adjutant - William Pierson (June 1666).
Quartermaster and Marshall - John Symonds (11th November 1664).
Chirugeon - Samuel Tatham (14th September 1666).
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Chaplin - Rev. John Evans (11th
November 1664).
Quarters of the forces, the garrisons at which several of the
Companies were stationed in1669.
Colonel Sir Charles Littleton. Harwich.
Captain Anthony Buller. Harwich.
Lt Col Sir John Griffith. Hull.
Captain Bennet. Hull.
Captain Middleton. Hull.
Major Nathan Dorrell. Landguard Fort.
Captain Titus. Deal Walmer.
Captain Vaughan. Chepstow Castle.
Captain Herbert. Guersey.
Captain Sir Bouchier Wrey. Sheerness.
1669. Uniform. The Grand Duke of Tuscany, who visited England during 1669, and landed at Plymouth, gives the following account of what he saw and mentions the uniforms then worn: “The Governor is my Lord John Granville, Earl of Bath and Sir [John] Skelton is his Lieutenant. Five companies of about seventy men each, officers and soldiers are on duty there, one of these belongs to the Duke’s Regiment. These men are very handsome and in excellent order, four companies wearing red jackets lined with yellow, and that of the Duke’s, yellow with red lining.” (sic) 1669. 8th December. The defeat of
Algerine men of War, off Cadiz.
1669. Wednesday 18th - Thursday 19th December. A battle took place near Cadiz between the English frigate HMS Mary Rose under the command of Rear-Admiral John Kempthorne, escorting several merchantmen. When he was attacked by seven pirate ships operating out of Algiers (North Africa). The outcome was an English victory. Although 1 English ship was captured, 12 killed and 18 wounded. (sic) 1669. 31st December. The Nominal State of Officers of the Admirals Regiment with commission dates: Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Charles Littleton, Knt.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir John Griffith, Knt.
Major - Nathaniel Dorrell.
Captains.
Sir Charles Littleton 15th February 1668. Sir John Griffiths 15th February 1668. Nathaniel Dorrell 15th February 1668. Thomas Bennet 18th July 1665. Sulas Titus 2nd July 1666. George Cartwright 3rd July 1666. Thomas Bromley 7th July 1666. Henry Herbert 15th January 1667. Roger Vaughan 21st September 1667. Sir Boucher Wrey 15th May 1668. Charles Middleton 1669. Colonel Anthony Buller 1669.
Lieutenants.
George Littleton 10th June 1668. John Griffith 10th December 1669. Robert Thompson 30th April 1667. Phillip
Bickerstaffe 18th July 1665. Francis
Hoblin 10th December 1669. John Grove
7th July 1666. Francis Izod 8th July
1666. William Morice 10th December 1669.
William Edward Harris 125th May 1669. John
Wise 4th July August 1667. Richard
Baggott 26th August 1667.
2nd/Lieutenants.
Charles Palmer 26th August 1667. John Thorne 9th December 1669. Alexander
Frazier 28th August 1667. John Trevanyen
26th September 1667. Francis Vincent 2nd
July 1666.3. Robert Kilvert 8th May
1667. Percy Kirk 8th July 1666. Robert Markham 25th March 1668. Thomas Cutler 17th August 1668. Broughton 12th May 1669. Richard Sheldon 4th July 1666. Edward Chichester 26th September 1667.
Adjutant - William Pireson (June 1966).
Quartermaster and Marshall - John Symonds (11th November 1664).
Chirugeon - Samuel Tatham (14th September 1666).
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Chaplin - Rev. John Evans (11th
November 1664).
Tatham (14th September 1666).
Chaplin - Rev. John Evans (11th November 1664).
1670. Wednesday 31st December.
The Nominal State of Officers of the Admirals Regiment with commission dates.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Charles Littleton, Knt.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir John Griffiths, Knt.
Major - Nathaniel Dorrell.
Captains.
Sir Charles Littleton 15th February 1668. Sir John Griffiths 15th February 1668. Nathaniel Dorrell 15th February 1668. Thomas Bennet 18th July 1665. George Cartwright 3rd July 1666. Thomas Bromley 7th July 1666. Henry Herbert 15th January 1667. Roger Vaughan 21st September 1667. Sir Boucher Wrey 15th May 1668. Charles Middleton 1669. Colonel Anthony Buller 1669. Charles Middleton 1669. Francis Digby 16th January 1671.
Lieutenants.
George Littleton 10th June 1668. John Griffith 10th December 1669. Robert Thompson 30th April 1667. Phillip
Bickerstaffe 18th July 1665. Francis
Hoblin 10th December 1669. John Grove
7th July 1666. Francis Izod 8th July
1666. William Morice 10th December 1669.
William Edward Harris 125th May 1669. John Wise 4th July August 1667. Richard Baggott 26th August 1667.
2nd/Lieutenants.
Charles Palmer 26th August 1667. John Thorne 9th December 1669. Alexander
Frazier 28th August 1667. John Trevanyen
26th September 1667. Francis Vincent 2nd
July 1666. Robert Kilvert 8th May 1667. Edmund Willson 9th September 1670. Edward Harriss 20th May 1670. Thomas Cutler 17th August 1668. Broughton 12th May 1669. Richard Sheldon 4th July 1666. Edward Chichester 26th September 1667.
Adjutant - William Pierson (June 1666).
Quartermaster and Marshall - John Symonds (11th November 1664).
Chirugeon - Samuel Tatham (14th September 1666).
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Chaplin - Rev. John Evans (11th
November 1664).
1671. Friday 16th January. The appointment
of Captain Francis Digby (16th January 1671) to a commission in the Admirals
Regiment is the first instance, of many to follow, of officers of the Navy
having held commissions in the Marines. The practice did not become common
during the command of Sir Charles Littleton, but, at the raising of the two
marine regiments in 1690, a very large number of officers who held commissions
in the Navy also held commissions as officers of Marines, and, as such,
actually performed the regimental duties of their ranks.
With the retirement of Captain Silus Titus the regiment lost an
officer who had played a not inconsiderable part in the history of his country.
He had, in a very great measure, conduced to the restoration of his royal
master, and with equal determination had voted for the exclusion of the Duke of
York on account of his leaning towards the Church of Rome. He was a great
supporter of Titus Oates and the Popish plot, had sat in parliament for close
on 26 years, representing at various times Ludgershall, Lostwithiel, Herts,
Hunts, and Ludlow and was afterwards sworn on the Privy Council (6th July 1688)
by James II and retired upon the abdication of that monarch. He married
Catherine, second daughter of James Winstanley and died at Bushey in 1704 aged 82
years. (sic)
1671. Thursday 31st December. The
Nominal State of Officers of the Admirals Regiment with commission dates.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Charles Littleton, Knt.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir John Griffiths, Knt.
Major - Nathaniel Dorrell.
Captains.
Sir Charles Littleton 15th February 1668. Sir John Griffiths 15th February 1668. Nathaniel Dorrell 15th February 1668. Thomas Bennet 18th July 1665. George Cartwright 3rd July 1666. Thomas Bromley 7th July 1666. Henry Herbert 15th September 1667. Roger Vaughan 21st September 1667. Sir Bouch Wrey15th May 1668. Charles Middleton 1669. Colonel Anthony Buller 1669. Francis Digby 16th January 1671.
Lieutenants.
George Littleton 10th June 1668. John Griffith 10th December 1669. Robert Thompson 30th April 1667. Phillip
Bickerstaffe 18th July 1665. Francis
Hoblin 10th December 1669. John Grove
7th July 1666. Francis Izod 8th July
1666. William Morice 10th May 1669. Edward Harris 12th May 1669. John Wise 4th July. Richard Baggott 26th August 1667. John Titus 22nd November 1666.
Adjutant - William Pierson (June1666).
Quartermaster and Marshall - John Symonds (11th November 1664).
Chirugeon - Samuel Tatham (14th September 1666).
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Chaplin - Rev John Evans (11th November
1664).
1672. March. The English captured
three Dutch ships.
1672. Saturday 12th - 13th March.
Holmes action with the Dutch Smyrna Fleet.
1672. Sunday 13th March. Third Anglo Dutch War was a military conflict between England and the Dutch Republic that took place from 1672 - 1674. It was part of the much larger Franco Dutch War. England's Royal Navy joined France in its attack on the Republic, but was frustrated in its attempts to blockade the Dutch coast by four strategic victories of Lieutenant Admiral Michiel de Ruyter. An attempt to make the province of Holland an English protectorate failed. The English Parliament fearful that the alliance with France was part of a plot to make England a Roman Catholic country, forced the king to abandon the costly and fruitless war. It also formed part of the general European War of 1672 - 1678. Although England and the Dutch Republic had been allied for a century, once again they went to war against each other. (sic) 1672. May. Sir Charles
Littleton’s company was ordered to be increased, the Master General of the
Ordnance receiving instructions that the company was to be armed “to make them
upp nynety eight soldiers besides officers”. Early in May, Captains Cartwright
and Middleton were each directed “to raise so many Voluntiers as he thinks
convenient for the recruiting of his company to the Established number threrof,
requiring him, if he beats his Drumms in London to Shew this order to the Major
of the Citty; as the men are raised they are to be quartered.”
This is the first reference extant that connects the Admiral’s
Regiment with the city of London, and by this it would seem that authority
existed, or had been recently granted, to recruit within the city, provided
that the order in question was shown to “the Major of the said City” (This
comment made in 1893 by the original author) (sic)
Similar instructions were given to Sir Charles Littleton, who
was directed to observe the said orders “if he should recruit in London”
Whether the privileges which the present corps of Royal Marines
now enjoys in connection with the City of London date from the period, as has
been already suggested, there is no evidence to show, but it is apparent that
some sort of restriction existed within the city precincts, and that the “Major
of the Citty” was in a position to relax it. (This comment made in 1893 by
the original author) (sic)
1672. 2.30am Saturday 28th May. A
French Frigate sailed into Southwold Bay in Suffolk (Sole Bay). Where the
English fleet had also assembled earlier for a refit. Many seamen and soldiers
had been sent from London to join the fleet, and most of the crews were
enjoying shore leave with a battle the last thing on their mind. There was an
urgent call to arms and at 5.30am when the English ships at anchor on the lee
shore put to sea. The Anglo French fleet was commanded by James, Duke of York,
later to become James II, and the Earl of Sandwich, both of whom had spent the
night at their headquarters in Sutherland House in Southwold’s High Street. The
fleet had 71 ships each with over 40 guns, plus frigates and fire ships,
totalling 90 in all. It amounted to over 5,500 guns and 24,000 men. However the
French fleet, whether through accident or design, steered south and left the
area of the intended battle. This left the Dutch fleet of 61 warships to fight
it out with the English, and the battle raged for much of the day. The Duke of
York had to transfer ships twice, as his flagships HMS Prince Royal and HMS St
Michael were both taken out of action. The flagship of Lord Sandwich HMS Royal
James, the biggest and newest ship in the English fleet was set on fire.
Sandwich drowned trying to escape and his body was washed ashore further down
the coast and was only recognisable by the Star and Garter on his clothing.
Losses were heavy on both sides. The Dutch lost two ships and about 1800 men.
While the English also lost two ships and some 2000 men. The battle ended
inconclusively at sunset. Predictably, both sides claimed victory. While the
locals were left to deal with around 800 injured sailors, and many bodies that
were washed up along the shoreline for many weeks after the battle. Later
Captain Silas wrote of the Marines that they had behaved themselves.
Captain Carleton who served on board the HMS London during the
Battle of Sole Bay wrote in his memoirs: of an incident that a cured on board
the HMS Katherine when one of the crew received a considerable wound that could
not be attended during the fighting. So he was carried out of the way and
disposed of in the hold. They had some pigs on board under the care of a
sailors who neglected to feed them. They were so hungry they wasted no time in
eating the wounded seaman. After the battle all that was found of him was his
skull. It’s believed that it was Captain (Hodge) Roger Vaughan of the Admirals
Regiment. (sic)
1672. Saturday 28th May. The
Battle of Sole bay. The losses sustained on this occasion by the Admiral’s
Regiment in officers alone was very heavy, no less than four captains being
killed, namely Captain Digby, then in command of HMS Henry, “was shot with small
shot in the breast”, Captain Thomas Bennet, Captain Roger Vaugham (of His Royal
Highness’s Bedchamber), and Captain Thomas Bromely. Lieutenants John Grove and
John Titus, and Ensign John Trevanion (His Royal Highness’s Gentleman Usher)
were also killed.
1672. 30th May. The name Marines
first appeared in official records. A letter from Captain Sylas Taylor,
addressed to Lord Arlington’s secretary, and referring to the Battle of Sole
bay, the writer concludes by saying “Those marines of whom I have wrote to you
behaved themselves stoutly”. This is the first mention that can be traced of
the word 'Marines' in connection with any armed force of the country, and the
Corps, at present day cannot fail to feel proud of the fact that the first use
of the name was associated with words of praise and respect for the regiments.(sic)
1672. August. The Admiral’s
Regiment sustained another loss by the death, at Tinmouth of Captain George
Cartwright.
1672. Saturday 31st December. The
Nominal State of Officers of the Admirals Regiment with commission dates.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Charles Littleton, Knt.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir John Griffiths, Knt.
Major - Nathaniel Dorrell.
Captains.
Sir Charles Littleton 15th February 1668. Sir John Griffiths 15th February 1668. Nathaniel Dorrell 15th February 1668. Henty Herbert 15th January 1667. Sir Boucher Wrey 15th January 1667. Charles Middleton 1669. Colonel Anthony Buller 1669. Richard Baggot 10th June 1672. George Littleton 10th June 1672. Humphry Cornwall 10th June 1672. John Churchill 10th June 1672. Phillip Bickerstaffe August 1672.
Lieutenants.
Francis Izod August 1672. John Griffith 10th December 1669. Robert Thompson 30th April 1667. Edward
Harris 12th May 1669. John Wise 4th July
1666. Edward Chichester 10th June 1672. Charles Palmer 10th June 1672. Edmund Wilson 10th June 1672. William Morrice 10th December 1669. Thomas Cutler 10th June 1672. Francis Hoblin 10th December 1669.
Ensigns.
George Palmer 10th June 1672. John Thorne 9th December 1669. Alexander Frazier 28th August 1667. Bruce 12th May 1669. .Broughton 12th May 1669. Richard Sheldon 4th July 1666. Oliver Nicholas 10th June 1672. Fitzsimmons 10th June 1672. Windwood 10th June 1672. Samuel Scudamore 16th January 1671. Henry Cornwall 10th June 1672. Robert Kilvert 8th May 1667.
Adjutant - William Pierson (June1666).
Quartermaster and Marshall - John Symonds (11th November 1664).
Chirugeon - Samuel Tatham (14th September 1666).
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Chaplin - Rev John Evans (11th November
1664).
John Churchill listed in the nominal above went on to become the
Duke of Marlborough and is the distant direct ancestor of Sir Winston Churchill
the noted British WW2 Prime Minister.
1672. A dispute arose on the subject of naval precedence, and other causes gave rise to another war with the Dutch. The formation of additional Corps of Marines took place upon renewal of hostilities. These companies were engaged in a sharp fight with the Dutch fleet on the Saturday 28th May 1672, in which upwards of two thousand men were killed. They were also engaged in several other actions during the war which ended in February 1674. The conflict became known as the third Anglo Dutch War, and also formed part of the general European War of 1672 - 1678. (sic) 1672. Tuesday 20th December. Four Dutch ships, led by Jacob de Gens, arrived off St. Helena from the Cape. A landing party came ashore at Lemon Valley but was repelled by English planters hurling rocks from the top of cliffs above. Returning after dark, a light was seen near another landing place, Bennetts Point close to Swanley Valley on the western side of the Island. A traitor named William Coxe, accompanied by his slave, had lit a fire and was waiting to guide the Dutch invasion force onto the island. Five hundred men came ashore and were led up the precipitous cliffs by Coxe and his slave, who was then murdered to keep the treacherous story secret. The Dutch met no opposition until they reached High Peak where they overpowered a small detachment of English troops stationed at the fort. The Dutch continued unchallenged to Ladder Hill where they looked down on James Fort, knowing that if they took James Fort, they took the Island. A detachment of Dutch troops made repeated advances towards James Fort but were driven back each time. However the small group in the fort were trapped, the Dutch were above them and also attacking them from the sea. Governor Anthony Beale realised the Dutch had the strategic advantage, being in possession of Ladder Hill Fort, and that he could not defend his weak position indefinitely. The governor spiked his guns, spoiled the gun powder and retreated with his entourage and their possessions to HMS Humphrey and HMS Elizabeth that were anchored in James Bay. They set sail for Brazil. According to Dutch records they gained little in monetary terms from their new possession, the most valuable items being an English slave ship, 220 slaves and 551 tusks of ivory. They repaired the fort and set a garrison of 100 men to defend the island. (sic) 1673. Monday 15th May. The re-capture of St. Helena in the South Atlantic. After reaching Brazil, Governor Beale hired a sloop and a crew, giving them orders to sail him back to St. Helena so he could warn English ships approaching the Island. By May 1673 he was back in St. Helena waters. Almost immediately he came upon Richard Munden’s English East India squadron. After being briefed by Beale, Munden immediately made plans to re-take the Island. Four hundred English troops sailed into Prosperous Bay. With them was Black Oliver, a slave who had sailed with Beale’s party to Brazil and back again. Black Oliver was chosen to guide the troops to James Fort. Captain Richard Keigwin commanded the English troops, among them was a sailor named Tom who was the first to climb a 1,000 foot cliff and drop ropes for the rest of the troops to follow. The plan was for Keigwin to attack from inland while Munden fired an off shore bombardment. Munden first bombarded James Fort as sailor Tom led the troops up the cliff, intending to continue the assault the following morning when Keigwin’s force should be in position to attack. Keigwin reached his position above James Fort as planned but found it was already in English hands the Dutch had surrendered after the first bombardment. At sunset on 15th May 1673, the English re-took possession of James Fort. Along with three Dutch East Indiamen vessels richly laden, that were anchored in the bay. (sic) 1673. Sunday 28th May. The first
(of three) Naval Battles of Schoonveldt that were part of the Franco Dutch War.
They were fought off the coast of the Nederland’s against the Dutch, between an
allied Anglo French fleet Commanded by Prince Rupert of the Rhine, and the
fleet of the United Provinces Commanded by Michiel de Ruyer, in which the Dutch
were the victors.
1673. Sunday 4th June. Witnessed
the 2nd Battle of Schoonveldt again involving the English and the Dutch in
which they also won.
1673. Monday 21st August. The
Naval Battle of Texel took place between the Dutch and the combined English and
French fleets and was the last major battle of the third Anglo Dutch War, which
was itself part of the Franco Dutch War (1672 - 1678), during which Louis XIV
of France invaded the Republic and sought to establish control over the Spanish
Netherlands. The English involvement came about because of the Treaty of Dover,
secretly concluded by Charles II of England, and which was highly unpopular
with the English Parliament. The Battle of Texel and its win by the Dutch also
saved their country from an Anglo French invasion.
1673. Sunday 26th March. The King
had been compelled by Parliament to withdraw the Declaration of Indulgence, and
on the 26th March the Test Act, by which all professing the Roman Catholic
faith were prohibited from holding office under the crown, was passed. In
consequence of the passing of this statute, the Duke of York, against whom the
act was practically directed, resigned his office of Lord High Admiral of
England, as well as all other appointments, with the exception of the command
of the Admiral’s Regiment, which, for some reason, he was allowed to retain.
This fact is gathered form a letter of Sir Charles Littleton’s
dated 1st July, addressed to Mr Bridgman. In this Sir Charles says:- “There
being a Commission to be drawn for a Chaplain for the Dukes Regiment the Duke
being no longer Admiral, I thought it convenient to ask His Royal Highness the
last night how the Regiment should be styled, & his Highness was pleased to
go to the King about it, & his Majesty did then order the Commissions for
the future should be with the name of the Dukes or His Royal Highnesses
Regiment”.
It will be thus seen, that the passing of the Test Act virtually
changed the name by which the Regiment had been commonly known. It had hitherto
been, both officially and otherwise, designated the Lord High Admiral’s
Regiment, although its distinctive title was that of HRH The Duke of York and
Albany’s Regiment of Foot. It was now, however, to be styled” with the name
of the Dukes, or his Royal Highnesses Regiment.” (sic)
1673. 4th June. The Second (of
three) Naval Battles of Schoonveldt that were part of the Franco Dutch War.
They were fought off the coast of the Nederland’s against the Dutch, between an
allied Anglo French fleet Commanded by Prince Rupert of the Rhine, and the fleet
of the United Provinces Commanded by Michiel de Ruyer, in which the Dutch were
the victors.
1673. 11th August. The third (of
three) Naval Battles of Schoonveldt that were part of the Franco Dutch War.
They were fought off the coast of the Nederland’s against the Dutch, between an
allied Anglo French fleet Commanded by Prince Rupert of the Rhine, and the
fleet of the United Provinces Commanded by Michiel de Ruyer, in which the Dutch
were the victors.
1673. 16th December. Orders were
issued to Sir Charles Littleton that the “ten Companies of the Duke of York’s
Regiment Quartered in and about the Counties of Middlesex and Surrey pay off
the Quarters of their Companies and have them in readiness to relieve the Duke
of Albermarle’s Regiment at Rochester and adjacent places”.
1673. Saturday 31st December. The
Nominal State of Officers of the Admirals Regiment with Commission Dates.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Charles Littleton, Knt.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir John Griffiths, Knt.
Major - Nathaniel Dorrell.
Captains.
Sir Charles Littleton 15th February 1668. Sir John Griffiths 15th February 1668. Nathaniel Dorrell 15th February 1668. Henry Herbert 15th January 1667. Sir Boucher Wrey 15th January 1667. Charles Middleton 1669. Colonel Anthony Buller 1669. Richard Baggot 10th June 1672. George Littleton 10th June 1672. Humphry Cornwall 10th June 1672. John Churchill 10th June 1672. Phillip Bickerstaffe August 1672.
Lieutenants
Francis Izod August 1672. Charles Palmer 23rd December 1673. Robert Thompson 30th April 1667. Samuel
Scudamore 7th September 1673. Edward
Harriss 12th May 1669. John Wise 4th
July 1666. Edward Chichester 10th June
1672. Robert Crauford 16th September
1673. William Morrice 10th December
1669. Thomas Cutler 10th June 1672. Francis Hoblin 10th December 1669.
Ensigns.
Frederick Walker 16th December 1673. John Thorne 9th December 1669. Alexander Frazie 28th August 1667. Bruce 20th May 1670.
Broughton 12th May 1669. Richard
Sheldon 4th July 1666. George Butler 5th
April 1673. Fitzsimmons 10th June 1672. Windwood 10th June 1672. Henry Horner 7th September 1673. Henry Cornwall 10th June 1672. Robert Kilvert 8th May 1667. Adjutant - William Pierson (June1666).
Quartermaster and Marshall - John Symonds (11th November 1664).
Chirugeon - Samuel Tatham (14th September 1666).
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Chaplin - Rev John Evans (11th November
1664).
1673. A complete redistribution
of the companies of the Duke’s Regiment was ordered.
As follows:-
Colonel Littleton. Landguard Fort.
Colonel Buller & Captain Bickerstaff. Berwick on Tweed.
Captains Bouchier Wrey & Cornwall. Plymouth.
Lt Col Griffith, Captain Herbert & Captain Lyttleton.
Portsmouth.
Captains Middleton & Baggot. Hull.
1673. It cannot be otherwise than
with pride that the corps looks back and sees amongst the ranks of its officers
two such distinguished men as John Churchill and George Rooke serving for a
time side by side in its roll, for although the great victories of Marlborough
do not reflect any lustre on the corps, except by indirect association, such is
not the case as regards George Rooke, who, by his own distinguished gallantry,
assisted by the personal valour of the Marines of his fleet, gained for the
Empire one of its proudest jewels, and left emblazoned in after years on the
colours of his old Regiment the word “Gibraltar”.
1674. January. The stations at
which the companies of the Regiment were “quartered in our counties of
Middlesex, Surrey and thereabouts is set forth in a list as follows: 10
Companies of his Royal Highness the Duke of York’s Regiment of Foot under
command of Sir Charles Littleton at Kingston, Richmond, Brentford, Fulham,
Parsons Green, Wandsworth, Putney, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Kensington &
Hammersmith. I Company (being Major Dorrell’s) at Sheerness, and 1 Company in
Flanders”.
1674. Friday 9th February. The
Treaty of Westminster ends the war between England and Holland, and the Dutch
return New York and Delaware to England. Two days later the King gave notice
for the disbandment of all existing forces with the exception of the Horse
& Foot Guards, The Duke of York’s and the Holland Regiment, and the 39
garrison companies which had existed before the war.
1674. April. John Churchill was
appointed Colonel of a Marine Regiment. He then served with, and learnt from
Marshal Turenne.
1674. Saturday 16th June. Battle
of Sinzheim in France, assisting the French Viscount of Turenne against the
Imperialists. The enemy’s cavalry had driven Turenne’s first line back upon his
second, the British Infantry poured in such a furious fire on the enemy that
they were unable to stand against it, and begun to retire. Undercover of this
fire the French Cavalry rallied and were able to advance against the enemy.
Later the French first line was again broken in several places, but the British
fire was so effective as to prevent the enemy’s Cuirassiers from passing
through the gaps which had been made. It’s believed that John Churchill 1st
Duke of Marlborough was present during the battle. Although Charles II's anti-French Parliament had
forced England to withdraw from the Franco-Dutch War in 1674, some English
Regiments remained in French service. In April Churchill was appointed the
colonelcy of one such Regiment, thereafter serving with, and learning from, the
great Marshal Turenne. Churchill was present at the hard fought battles of
Sinsheim in June 1674, and Enzheim in October; Turckheim in January 1675. He was also present at Sasbach in
July 1675, where Turenne was killed. (sic)
1674. Thursday 4th October. The
Battle of Entzheim near Strasburg in France. It’s reported that the steadiness
and accuracy of the Marines fire saved their French allies. It is also the
first account of a land engagement in which a large number of Marines
participated.
1674. After a peace with Holland
was signed about 500 Marines of the Duke of York’s Regiment remained in France.
1674. Monday 31st December. The
Nominal State of Officers of the Admirals Regiment with commission dates.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir Charles Littleton, Knt.
Lieutenant Colonel - Sir John Griffiths, Knt.
Major - Nathaniel Dorrell.
Captains.
Sir Charles Littleton 15th February 1668. Sir John Griffiths 15th February 1668. Nathaniel Dorrell 15th February 1668. Henry Herbert 15th January 1667. Sir Boucher Wrey 15th January 1667. Charles Middleton 1669. Colonel Anthony Buller 1669. Richard Baggot 10th June 1672. George Littleton 10th June 1672. Humphry Cornwall 10th June 1672. John Churchill 10th June 1672. Phillip Bickerstaffe August 1672.
Lieutenants.
Francis Izod August 1672. Charles Palmer 23rd December 1673. Robert Thompson 30th April 1667. Samuel
Scudamore 7th September 1673. Edward
Harris 12th May 1669. John Wise 4th July
1666. Edward Chichester 10th June 1672. Robert Crauford 16th September 1673. Edmund Wilson 10th June 1672. William Morrice 10th December 1669. Thomas Cutler 10th June 1672. Francis Hoblin 10th December 1669.
Ensigns.
Frederick Walker 16th December 1673. John Thorne 9th December 1669. Alexander Frazier 28th August 1667. Bruce 20th May 1670.
Broughton 12th May 1669. Richard
Sheldon 4th July 1666. George Butler 5th
April 1673. Fitzsimmons 10th June 1672. George Rooke 1674. Henry Horner 7th September 1673. Charles Churchill 1674. Robert Kilvert 8th May 1667.
Adjutant - William Pierson (June1666).
Quartermaster and Marshall - John Symonds (11th November 1664).
Chirugeon - Samuel Tatham (14th September 1666).
Lieutenant Colonel Sir Chaplin - Rev. John Evans (11th November
1664).
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