The Wreck of the Ten Sail: A Historic Maritime Tragedy and a Tale of Heroism
Wreck of the Ten Sail memorial plaque and viewpoint – dedicated by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1994
The Wreck of the Ten Sail stands as a significant event in maritime history, which occurred off the East End of Grand Cayman on February 8, 1794. A convoy of ten merchant ships, bound for various destinations including the United States and Britain, encountered a treacherous reef near Grand Cayman during a storm. This devastating shipwreck resulted in the loss of eight lives, but it also showcased the bravery and compassion of the local residents who came to the rescue of the crews and passengers.
Led by the seasoned captain John Lawford, the convoy set sail with the escort of the naval frigate HMS Convert. Unfortunately, a decision to change course at night led to the convoy unknowingly sailing towards the dangerous reefs. By the early hours of February 8, the disaster struck when the lead ship hit the reef, causing severe damage and forcing the ships to disperse in an attempt to avoid further disaster.
The shipwrecked crews and passengers found themselves in a dire situation, but the islanders of Grand Cayman proved to be true heroes. Residents from the East End and Bodden Town braved the stormy waters to rescue those in need, providing shelter, food, and medical assistance. Despite their efforts, the loss of lives was tragic, with Captain Martin of Britannia among those who perished with his ship.
Captain Lawford, after his rescue, sought assistance from the Governor of Havana and his commander-in-chief, Commodore John Ford. With the help of sloops and schooners from Jamaica, provisions and support were brought to the survivors on Grand Cayman.
HMS Success eventually arrived at Grand Cayman to rescue the remaining shipwrecked individuals, including Captain Lawford and his crew. Lawford’s bravery during the ordeal was recognized, and he was acquitted of all charges during his court martial. The crew attempted to salvage the cargo from the wrecked ships, saving a significant portion, including rum, cotton, and wood.
Over time, a legend surrounding the event has emerged among the Cayman Islands residents. According to the tale, a royal prince, one of King George III’s sons, was among the passengers on one of the ships. When the King learned of the bravery and heroism displayed by the Caymanians, he allegedly decreed that the people of the Cayman Islands would be exempt from war conscription and taxes as a reward. While there is no documented evidence to support this decree or the presence of a royal prince, the legend endures and continues to be shared among the islands’ inhabitants and visitors alike.
The Wreck of the Ten Sail serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of the seas and the dangers faced by sailors in centuries past. It also honors the resilience and compassion of the Caymanian people, whose acts of heroism have been etched into the island’s history and collective memory. The event stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of human courage and the enduring power of legend and folklore in shaping a community’s identity.