HMS Arab was a 10-gun Cherokee-class brig-sloop of the Royal Navy, launched in 1812. She saw active service during the War of 1812 and later participated in anti-slavery patrols in the West Indies before being sold out of service in 1828.
Construction and Design
Arab belonged to the Cherokee-class, a highly numerous class of brig-sloops designed by Sir Henry Peake. These vessels were characterized by their speed and maneuverability, making them ideal for a range of duties including convoy escort, anti-privateer operations, and coastal surveillance. She was built at Cowes and measured approximately 237 tons burthen, with a gundeck length of around 90 feet (27 m). Her standard armament consisted of eight 18-pound carronades and two 6-pound long guns.Service History
Arab was commissioned in 1812 under Commander Robert M. Jackson and immediately deployed to the North American station to participate in the War of 1812 against the United States.- War of 1812: On 11 November 1812, Arab successfully captured the American privateer Saucy Jack off the coast of New England. Saucy Jack was a schooner armed with six 6-pounder guns and manned by a crew of 40. Arab continued to patrol the American coastline, engaging in convoy protection and suppressing privateering activities.
- Post-War and Anti-Slavery Patrols: Following the cessation of hostilities in 1815, Arab was assigned to the West Indies station. Here, she played a role in the Royal Navy's efforts to suppress the illegal slave trade, intercepting slave ships and enforcing the abolition of slavery. In 1820, under Commander G. Henderson, she briefly served in the Mediterranean before returning to her duties in the West Indies. Her final years of service were dedicated to continued anti-slavery patrols and general naval duties in the Caribbean.