French ship Scipion (1779)

For other ships with the same name, see French ship Scipion.
Scipion raking HMS London during the Action of 18 October 1782.
History
France
Name: Scipion
Honours and
awards:
Fate: Ran aground 1782
General characteristics
Class and type: Scipion class
Tons burthen: 1500 tonnes
Length: 53.8 m (177 ft)
Beam: 14.1 m (46 ft)
Draught: 7.3 m (24 ft)
Propulsion: Sails
Armament: 74 to 78 guns of various weights of shot

The Scipion was a French warship of the 18th century, lead ship of her class.

Scipion took part in the American War of Independence, notably sailing at the rear of the French squadron at the Battle of the Chesapeake.

In the Action of 18 October 1782, under Captain Nicolas Henri de Grimouard, Scipion fought gallantly against two British ships of the line of 90 and 74 guns. Through good sailmanship, she managed to damage HMS London and escape, but was destroyed the next day after she was chased and ran aground.

References


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