HMS Boston (1762)

HMS Boston was a 32-gun fifth-rate frigate of the Royal Navy, launched in 1762. She was built by Blaydes of Hull to the 1757 Establishment. Her career primarily involved service in North American waters, and she is perhaps best known for her involvement in the early stages of the American Revolutionary War.

Boston participated in several key events leading up to the war, including patrols aimed at enforcing the Stamp Act and preventing smuggling. Her presence in Boston Harbor was a point of contention with local colonists.

In 1776, Boston engaged in a significant naval action near Cape Cod against the Continental Navy frigate Hancock, captained by John Manley, and the brig Fox. Boston was captured by the Hancock during this engagement on July 7, 1776.

Following her capture, Boston was commissioned into the Continental Navy. Her subsequent service under American command was short-lived, as she was recaptured by the Royal Navy on September 25, 1776, by HMS Liverpool off the coast of Nova Scotia.

Returned to British service, Boston continued to operate until she was wrecked on a reef near the mouth of the River St. Lawrence in November 1776. All her crew were saved.