Firefly

Posted by Robert Hay on Sunday 3rd of January 2021 17:13

On the construction of the Firefly (1828) from a letter dated 8 September 1830 by Benjamin Chimmo (d. 1854). Secretary to Admiral C.E. Fleeming, C in C West Indies, to Lt James Beckford Lewis Hay

"After a considerable struggle against some old and obstinate opinions; Adl. F, procured a Schooner to be built in Bermuda, on the plan of the “General Geddes”, an American wrecker which went to the assistance of the Nimble, when on shore on the Florida reef, this Vessel having sliding keels, drew only 5 feet water, altho’ she was very much larger than the former; and the advantage of being able, in a Vessel of force, to follow a Slaver on the reefs was so obvious; that the that the Firefly was ordered at last to be constructed on the same plan, and under Hollands particular inspection – almost all hands conspired to condemn the plan; some even said the Ten Gun would upset her; but she has turned out capitally so stiff that she does not feel her Sails; an excellent Sea Boat; steers very fair; sails well even upon a wind; but a little off as she faces it; and nothing can trouble her: the only objection I see, is that in consequence of the machinery of the keels she is obliged to have three masts – which always makes her to be known – she is rigged in the American style with few ropes; and will, compared to some of the other Schooners be inexpensive."