Admiral Sir George Cockburn – Autograph Letter Signed, 1824
On Naval Volunteers, the Prince Regent, and the Algerine Crisis
A superb and content-rich five page letter (on two leaves) from Admiral Sir George Cockburn (1772–1853)—one of the most influential British naval officers of the Napoleonic era and War of 1812. Cockburn is best known for commanding the naval force that conveyed Napoleon to exile on St. Helena in 1815, and for leading the British assault on the United States capital—burning Washington, D.C. in 1814 during the War of 1812. His signature and correspondence are increasingly sought after for their direct connection to pivotal moments in Anglo-American and Napoleonic history. Writing from the Admiralty, Cockburn addresses fellow officer Capt. Hallowell (later Admiral Sir Benjamin Hallowell Carew) regarding orders for men to volunteer from the Prince Regent, and the broader context of tensions in the Mediterranean. Cockburn clarifies a misunderstood directive:
“You are quite mistaken with regard to the principle which induced the order for men to be allowed to volunteer from the Prince Regent for the Lively…”
He explains the decision stemmed from strategic necessity rather than a request from Captain Elliott or others:
“The order sent to you was from a feeling of anxiety at the present moment in consequence of the Algerine affair—to have another frigate at command to send toward the Mediterranean if necessary...”
Later, Cockburn firmly supports Hallowell’s authority:
“I would not on any account have you do it, understanding therefore exactly our feeling about it, act precisely as you think right…”
He concludes with reassurance that the order will be formally canceled if Hallowell prefers:
“I will cancel the order formally if you wish it, after again hearing from you.”
Signed boldly at close by Cockburn.
Dated March 11, 1824. 5 pages on two sheets, each page approx. 4.5" x 7." Original folds, minor separation at hinge, no text loss. Strong ink and excellent legibility throughout. Protected in a removable archival sleeve. An outstanding example of Cockburn’s leadership, highlighting Admiralty anxiety during the 1824 Algerine conflict and revealing the flexibility afforded to senior captains in matters of command and dignity.
