Battle of San Domingo

Background. Following the Trafalgar campaign, the Royal Navy blockade of French Atlantic ports was withdrawn. French squadrons sailed unopposed in late 1805, separating to pursue British merchant convoys. One squadron under Counter-admiral Leissègues sailed for the Caribbean. The British Admiralty discovered this late, but Vice-Admiral Sir John Duckworth maintained contact with French forces stationed off Cádiz, eventually moving to intercept the French squadron in the Caribbean.

Forces. Duckworth raised his flag aboard HMS Royal George and joined forces at Saint Kitts in January 1806. He was joined by HMS Northumberland and HMS Atlas, and received news of French presence at San Domingo via the brig Kingfisher. The French squadron consisted of five ships, including the 120-gun Imperial, under Counter-admiral Leissègues, carrying approximately 1,000 troops to reinforce French forces.

Engagement. Duckworth arrived at San Domingo on 6 February 1806 and found the French squadron anchored in Occa bay. The engagement occurred off the southern coast of the French-occupied Captaincy General of Santo Domingo. The battle was part of the War of the Third Coalition, involving squadrons of French and British ships of the line.

Aftermath. Following the battle, Duckworth received promotions and honors, including a sword of honour from the House of Assembly of Jamaica and the City of London. He subsequently returned to the Mediterranean. The victory was acknowledged with several honors, including a great dinner held in his honour at the Mansion House.