BookmarkTreasure ships, loss of "Las Mercedes"
False intelligence
See below for Details on Treasure ships, loss of "Las Mercedes"
Exhibited at the European Parliament, May 2011
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The loss of the "Nuestra Senora de las Mercedes" is simple enough at face value; she blew up with great loss of life and treasure in action and sank, 5th October 1804. The full story is, as is often the case, is much more intriguing ...
Dubious intelligence was believed by the British Government who sent 4 frigates to arrest 2 frigates. Unfortunately there were 4 Spanish frigates and although not ready for battle they refused to surrender. The intelligence was later proved unsound and the blunder brought Spain into the Napoleonic war on the side of France.
Recently Odyssey Marine Exploration found the wreck and treasure. Who owns the wreck, the Spanish Government, the USA, Odyssey Marine Exploration, the descendants of the people? Even Peru has now put in a claim.
This painting shows the British positioned mostly off the lee bows of their opponents and the fatal moment at about 09:40, 9 minutes into the action.
Credit where it is due: Special thanks to W. M. James for The Naval History of Great Britain volume 3, first published between 1820 and 1824.
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Further Reading: useful facts + excellent stories about Treasure ships, loss of "Las Mercedes".
By Gordon Frickers 305 x 455 mm (12" x 18"), Oils, Price of the original on application
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