White Ensign (before 1801)

A pre-1801 White Ensign in hand-sewn wool bunting. It was said to have been worn by HMS 'Brunswick' at the battle of the Glorious First of June in 1794. The British fleet wore red ensigns during the battle to avoid confusion with the enemy so these may be 'Brunswick's' squadronal colours. The size and construction of this ensign are entirely consistent with a late 18th century date and it may well be the only complete naval ensign of this pattern to survive.

'Brunswick' was involved in a famous duel with the French ship 'Vengeur du Peuple' during this action. Both vessels were badly damaged and the 'Vengeur' sank shortly after she struck her colours. John Harvey, the Captain of 'Brunswick', subsequently died of his wounds. The ensign was handed down through the Harvey family.

Object Details

ID: AAA0937
Collection: Flags
Type: Naval ensign
Display location: Not on display
Events: French Revolutionary Wars: Battle of the Glorious First of June, 1794
Vessels: Brunswick (1790)
Date made: circa 1794
People: Royal Navy; Harvey, John
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Measurements: Flag: 6380 mm x 12080 mm
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