USS Alligator engages pirate schooners off Cuba (1822)

On 9 November 1822, the USS Alligator engaged a pirate force near Matanzas, Cuba. The Navy schooner, commanded by Lieutenant William Howard Allen, rushed to rescue captured vessels held for ransom. The pirate band consisted of approximately 125 men and three armed schooners. Alligator arrived at dawn, finding the pirates in possession of multiple ships. The engagement resulted in the boarding of a pirate schooner by Alligator's boats.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. In early November 1822, the USS Alligator was stationed in Matanzas, Cuba, to patrol the area as part of the United States Navy's West Indian Anti-Piracy Campaign. A large band of pirates, consisting of around 125 men and three armed schooners, captured several vessels in the vicinity. These vessels were held for ransom, prompting the Navy to intervene to rescue the ships and seize the pirates.

Engagement. Upon hearing of the pirate attacks, Lieutenant William Howard Allen rushed to the scene. Alligator arrived at the destination at dawn on 9 November. The Navy found the pirates in possession of one ship, two brigs, and five schooners. The boats from Alligator pressed home their attack, overhauling a pirate schooner and boarding it in a mad rush.

Aftermath. Following the engagement, Alligator departed Matanzas on 18 November 1822, escorting a convoy and her prizes back to the United States. The ship was later destroyed by fire on 23 November 1822, before the crew left the area.

People involved

Sources

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