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From: "Family Tree Bookshop" <>
Subject: [LDR] Pirates of the Chesapeake: Arr-Arr, Avast Ye Swabs
Date: Sat, 1 Nov 2003 17:15:17 -0500


Hello Rooters:
In answer to Renie's inquiry concerning Pirates in the Chesapeake, Washington probably called on Privateers. Privateers were one step above pirates--essentially legalized pirates. During the Revolution, since most of the ports were closed due to the British blockade, and because trade was somewhat stymied, many mariners became privateers. They would get their "license" to do so from the Continental Congress or from the state government which was called a Letter of Marque. This entitled one to raid enemy shipping, take prizes, and claim the money for bringing them and their cargoes into port--having the ship "prized" and then sold at auction. As I said, Privateering was essentially legalized piracy. It was attractive to those ship owners and sailing masters as well as the crew because it was highly profitable.

Although, there was really no "national" navy--each state had its own. --just thought I would throw that in there.
Hope this clarifies the picture there Renie--and to the rest of you "me buckos"--hope you are having a good weekend.
Guess I had better run--time for me to batten the hatches.
<<<Neil>>>
Yes, we have New Somerset, Worcester and Wicomico Titles
*Just completed--Worcester Co. Wills--1797-1798
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