HMS Merlin (1803)

HMS Merlin was launched in 1801 in South Shields as the collier Hercules. In July 1803, with the resumption of war with France, the Admiralty purchased her. She was one of about 20 such vessels that the navy would then employ primarily for convoy escort duties. She served on active duty until 1810, capturing one small privateer. She then served as a receiving ship until 1836 when the navy sold her for breaking up.

For other ships with the same name, see list of ships named Hercules and HMS Merlin.

History
United Kingdom
NameHercules
BuilderSouth Shields
Launched1801
FateSold 1803
United Kingdom
NameHMS Merlin
Acquired1803 by purchase
FateSold 1836
General characteristics
TypeSloop
Tons burthen395 (bm)
Length
  • 104 ft 0 in (31.7 m) (overall)
  • 79 ft 10 in (24.3 m) (keel)
Beam30 ft 6 in (9.3 m)
Depth of hold12 ft 10 in (3.9 m)
Sail planSloop
Complement100 (British service)
Armament
  • Upper deck: 14 x 32-pounder carronades
  • Spar deck: 4 x 24-pounder carronades
  • Fc: 2 x 9-pounder bow guns
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