Going Among English Sailors: American Tars Aboard HMS Belvidera, 1809-1814
By Andrew J. Lyter
Pilottown Press, 2024

Twenty-two American sailors served aboard the British naval ship HMS Belvidera during the Napoleonic Wars, the War of 1812, and the bombardment of Lewes, DE in 1813. Their time in the Royal Navy coincided with an era of fluid nationalities on the waterfront, creating ambiguity for laborers at sea about what it meant to be an American. Drawing from the National Archives of the United Kingdom and other sources, Lyter captures the untold story of the soldiers’ tumultuous and complex lives, offering a nuanced perspective on this chapter in maritime history.

About the Author
Andrew J. Lyter is the Executive Director and Curator at the Lewes Historical Society. A maritime historian, Lyter is pursuing his PhD at the University of Portsmouth. He is an avid sailor, regularly crewing aboard tall ships in the US and UK. He lives with his family in Lewes.

Purchase the book
Please help support local independent bookstores by purchasing this book at Browseabout Books, official bookseller of the History Book Festival. Online sources and digital versions are tempting; however, supporting local brick and mortar shops helps to preserve our vibrant main streets. Drop by Browseabout, order books online, or call the store at 302-226-2665. You also may purchase a copy at biblion in Lewes.