USS Constellation vs La Vengeance

USS Constellation vs La Vengeance: A Naval Clash in the Quasi-War

In the early morning of February 1, 1800, two mighty frigates clashed in a fierce naval engagement off Guadeloupe. The USS Constellation and the French frigate La Vengeance engaged in a battle that would test their mettle and mark a significant moment during the Quasi-War between the United States and France.

Background: A Tense Naval Standoff

The Quasi-War, as it was known, was a period of tension between the United States and France that saw both nations engaging in naval skirmishes without formal declaration of war. Commodore Thomas Truxton led an American naval squadron tasked with patrolling the Lesser Antilles to deter French attacks.

Truxton’s flagship, USS Constellation, was part of a formidable fleet that included four frigates, three schooners, and a ship-rigged man-of-war. On 19 January 1800, Truxton took command after arriving at Saint Kitts with his crew ready for action.

The Engagement: A Fierce Naval Duel

On the morning of February 1, 1800, Truxton’s crew spotted a mysterious frigate flying British colors two leagues off the Basse-Terre roadstead. In an effort to communicate, Constellation also flew British colors. However, as both ships approached each other, it became clear that La Vengeance was indeed a French warship.

The engagement began at 07:45 when Pitot, the commander of La Vengeance, sighted the American ship and thought it to be a superior warship. Instead of heading north, he continued sailing with the wind, signaling his true identity as a French frigate. The two ships engaged in a fierce battle that lasted for 2.5 hours.

Both vessels were heavily damaged during the engagement. La Vengeance struck her colors twice but managed to flee only after the main mast of its opponent had fallen. Despite the heavy casualties and damage, both ships continued their duel until 02:00 on February 2 when La Vengeance struck her colors for the second time.

The Aftermath: A Hero’s Welcome

After the battle, both vessels were in poor condition. Pitot set course for Curaçao but was forced to ground his vessel due to difficulties in repairing it. Constellation suffered heavy damage with 15 crew slain and 25 wounded. The ship sailed to Jamaica for a refit that was incomplete due to a shortage of naval stores.

Truxton’s actions were considered heroic, and he received considerable praise from the American government. In response to his battle with Pitot’s frigate, Truxton was commended with a Congressional Gold Medal depicting the engagement. James C. Jarvis, a 13-year-old Midshipman who was killed when the mainmast collapsed during the battle, became famous for his bravery.

USS Constellation vs La Vengeance: A naval clash that tested the mettle of both ships and their crews. The Quasi-War may have been a period of tension between nations, but it also showcased the valor and determination of those who served in the American Navy during this time. The battle remains a testament to the bravery and skill of Commodore Truxton and his crew.