HMS Avon (1805)

HMS Avon was a British Royal Navy 18-gun Cruizer-class brig-sloop launched in 1805. She served primarily in the English Channel and off the coasts of France and Spain during the Napoleonic Wars.

Avon's career saw her involved in numerous actions against enemy privateers and coastal vessels. She participated in several notable captures, earning prize money for her crew.

Perhaps most famously, HMS Avon was sunk in battle with the USS Wasp on 1 September 1814, during the War of 1812. After a fierce engagement off the Old Head of Kinsale, Ireland, Avon was heavily damaged. Other British vessels approached, causing Wasp to break off the engagement. However, Avon was in a sinking condition and ultimately foundered. While reports initially suggested the involvement of other British ships in her sinking, historical analysis indicates the damage inflicted by Wasp was the primary cause. The loss of Avon was a significant blow to the Royal Navy and a victory for the burgeoning United States Navy.