"The Capture of Julia and Growler, Lake Ontario, 10th August 1813"

Acrylic on Paper

9 1/4 x 15 1/4 inches (23.5 x 38.5 cm)

Signed, lower right

Framed & Glazed

The cover picture of “Great Lakes Warships 1812 - 1815”, Osprey Publishing, 2012

By 1813 the British and American forces on Lake Ontario were roughly equal in strength. The two commanders - Yeo for the British and the American Chauncey - were cautious and unwilling to risk a decisive move unless enjoying clear superiority.

On the 10th of August their fleets did meet in action. The British had the advantage of the wind and Chauncey responded by splitting his fleet into two lines; one a line of six schooners near to the British while he held a second line of his main warships downwind. The plan was to lure the British to attack the schooners and then fall upon them.

The first part of the plan worked and Yeo pounced on the schooners. However, when the signal was given to rejoin the American forces, two of the schooners, Julia and Growler, tacked into the wind rather than turning with it. This mistake carried them beyond the British line and they were captured.

Full description on request / A larger photograph is available

For queries or to reserve the painting for 24 hours, contact Charles Mayes

cm@marineartists.co.uk +44(0)20 7352 7759

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