Burning of the Ships Traditional Cache
GeoCrater: I am regretfully archiving this cache since there's been no response from nor action by the cache owner within the time frame requested in the last reviewer note.
GeoCrater
Geocaching.com Community Volunteer Reviewer
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One of my favorite things about caching is the unique opportunity to learn about local history. This cache will take you to a very scenic and historic part of Essex Village. Only a micro could hide here so BYOP. High muggle area in nice weather, please use discretion.
The town of Essex has its roots set firmly in maritime activity, specifically ship building. In 1776, upon the outbreak of the American Revolution, the Colony of Connecticut commissioned Captain Uriah Hayden to build a warship. Captain Hayden lived here, at the end of Main Street and built for the colony the “Oliver Cromwell,” the first ship to be both built and financed by the colony. The “Oliver Cromwell” measured 80 feet at keel with a 27 foot beam, the largest vessel constructed in the Connecticut River Valley at the time. The ship came to life right here in these waters and initiated a strong tradition of shipbuilding in Essex.
It was this strong shipbuilding tradition that led to the most famous historic event to happen in Essex. During the War of 1812, Americans once again found themselves facing off against the British. The shipping industry in Essex was suffering from the blockade by the British, but shipbuilders here were still finding business by building privateers (private vessels authorized to attack foreign shipping during wartime.) Once the British learned of this, a conflict was inevitable.
Late in the night of April 7th 1814, a group of about 136 British troops began to row the six miles up the Connecticut River from their war ships anchored in Long Island Sound. Under the command of Lt. Richard Coote, the troops landed here, at the end of Main Street, around 4 a.m. on April 8th. After a short, but convincing display of arms, Lt. Coote commandeered the town, promising to leave townsfolk and buildings in peace so long as the residents did not attempt to resist the sudden occupation. As some British troops patrolled up and down Main Street, the rest set to work on their mission of locating the targeted ships and setting them ablaze. By the time British troops set back down the river at about 10 a.m. 28 ships had been destroyed. The estimated value of the ships and goods lost because of the British attack has been estimated to be around $200,000. To put this into perspective, a large two-story house in town at the time would have cost about $1,000. The economic loss resulting from the attack on Essex was one of the greatest financial losses suffered by the Americans during the War of 1812.
Although there were no casualties here in Essex, it has been reported that the attack did lead to the deaths of two of Lt. Coote’s men. As they returned to their ships in the sound, the British barges became trapped in the river at low tide. As they were forced to wait for the tide to turn, Connecticut militia began filling the banks of the river around them in retaliation for the attack on Essex. Before the tide could turn, the ensuing firefight resulted in the death of two British marines. No American deaths were reported.
It is my hope that this cache has taught you a little bit about the role Essex has played in American history. The Connecticut River Museum (across the lawn from this cache) has an exhibit on the Attack at Essex as well as much more information about the local history. Enjoy your visit to scenic and historic Essex!
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
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