HMS Windsor Castle was a 98-gun second-rate ship of the line of the Royal Navy, launched on 21 August 1790 at Limehouse, built by Robert Batson. She was a heavily armed warship designed for fleet actions during the Napoleonic Wars and other conflicts of the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Design and Construction As a second-rate ship of the line, Windsor Castle carried 98 guns on three decks, making her a powerful component of the British fleet. Her construction at Limehouse by Robert Batson followed the standard practices for large warships of the era, emphasizing robust construction to withstand battle damage and long periods at sea.
Service History
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Glorious First of June (1794): Windsor Castle participated in the Battle of the Glorious First of June under the command of Captain Sir Thomas Byard. During the engagement, she was heavily involved in the fighting, sustaining severe damage. She lost all her masts and suffered numerous casualties, requiring her to be towed out of the action.
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Battle of Hyères Islands (1795): She was part of Admiral William Hotham's fleet at the Battle of Hyères Islands off the French coast. While the battle was indecisive, Windsor Castle fulfilled her role in the British line of battle.
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Battle of Cape St. Vincent (1797): Under the command of Captain Robert Calder, Windsor Castle was a key participant in the Battle of Cape St. Vincent. She was part of Admiral Sir John Jervis's fleet that achieved a significant victory over the Spanish fleet. During the battle, she engaged several Spanish ships, including the San Nicolas and San Josef, contributing to the British success.
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Later Service: Following these major engagements, Windsor Castle continued to serve the Royal Navy, participating in various fleet duties and blockades during the ongoing conflicts with France. Her service was essential in maintaining British naval supremacy.
Fate After a distinguished career spanning over two decades, HMS Windsor Castle was eventually deemed unfit for further active service. She was broken up in 1816, marking the end of her operational life.