Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

An Autographed Naval Memorandum signed by Captain John Stewart, Captain of H.M.S. Seahorse, to Captain Mitford of H.M. Brig L’Espoir, instructing him to complete his ship’s water and other provisions, and to join Rear Admiral Martin at Milazzo, dated Palermo, 14 June 1810, 1 page, 12 x 8 inches, folds, three small holes, and some water stains, therefore reasonable condition £60-£80

John Stewart was responsible for the clasp on the Naval General Service Medal 1793-1840 ‘Seahorse with Badere Zaffer’ for his daring exploits against two Turkish ships on 5-6 June 1808. One frigate left the battle after one broadside from Seahorse, but the Badere Zaffer continued fighting all day and night, but due to her terrible plight was forced to surrender in the morning, having had all her masts shot away and no fewer than 170 men killed and 200 wounded. By contrast, Seahorse’s casualties amounted to only five killed and ten wounded- a magnificent example of fine gunnery, seamanship, and tactics.