Episodes & Studies Volume 2
Second Leander
Second Leander
Built 1814. Frigate of 1600 tons and 60 guns. In 1816 the Leander took part in the expedition under Lord Exmouth against the Dey of Algiers, whose pirates were a constant menace to shipping in the Mediterranean. The defences of Algiers were formidable. The garrison numbered 40,000 and the batteries mounted 1000 guns. In this fierce action the Leander's casualties were heavy, more than a quarter of her ship's company of 500 being killed or wounded. As a result of the bombardment more than a thousand Christian slaves were set free and the Dey was made to pay a heavy indemnity.