Frigates and Foremasts

The first comprehensive study of naval operations involving NorthAmerican squadrons in Nova Scotia waters, Frigates and Foremasts offersa masterful analysis of the motives behind the deployment of Royal Navyvessels between 1745 and 1815, and the navy’s role on the WesternAtlantic.

Interweaving historical analysis with vivid descriptions of pivotalevents from the first siege of Louisbourg in 1745 to the end of thewars with the United States and France in 1815, Julian Gwyn illuminatesthe complex story of competing interests among the Admiralty, NavyBoard, sea officers, and government officials on both sides of theAtlantic. In a gripping narrative encompassing sea battles,impressments, and privateering, Gwyn brings to life key events andcentral figures. He examines the role of leadership and the lack of it,not only of seagoing heroes from Peter Warren to Philip Broke, but alsoof land-based officials, such as the various Halifax naval yardcommissioners, whose important contributions are brought to light.Gwyn’s brilliant evocation of people and events, and thescholarship he brings to bear on the subject makes Frigates andForemasts a uniquely authoritative history. Wonderfully readable, itwill attract both the serious naval historian and the general readerinterested in the ‘why’ and ‘what’ of navalhistory on North America's eastern seaboard.