U.S. FRIGATE 'CHESAPEAKE' AND H.M.S. 'SHANNON'

This impressive maritime picture shows United States frigate ‘Chesapeake’ engaging in battle with the British ‘Shannon’ during the War of 1812. The American ship is in the foreground and is identified by its waving flags. The white banner that flies above at the fore reads ‘A FREE TRADE / SAILORS RIGHTS’. On the deck below and climbing up the shrouds, sailors are seen sword fighting. Some men fall overboard. This battle took place on June 1, 1813 in Boston Harbor. Unfortunately for the Americans, the Chesapeake was defeated in less than fifteen minutes and was promptly escorted to Halifax. It was one of the bloodiest seat battles of the war and ended in over 70 dead and 130 wounded.