HMS Elizabeth (1679)

HMS Elizabeth was a 70-gun third-rate ship of the line of the English Royal Navy, later British Royal Navy. She was originally ordered in 1677 as part of a program of naval expansion, and eventually built at Portsmouth Dockyard.

Launched in 1679, Elizabeth participated in several major naval engagements of the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Her career encompassed the Nine Years' War (also known as the War of the Grand Alliance or War of the League of Augsburg), including battles against the French fleet.

Details regarding her specific actions and captains during these conflicts are relatively sparse in easily accessible records. However, it is documented that she underwent several rebuilds and repairs throughout her service life to maintain her seaworthiness and fighting capability.

In 1705, she was rebuilt according to the 1702 Establishment. This involved significant structural alterations, effectively transforming her into a new ship, although retaining the same name.

Elizabeth continued to serve in the Royal Navy, likely involved in routine patrols, convoy escort duties, and potentially participating in further fleet actions during the War of the Spanish Succession.

Her ultimate fate is recorded as being wrecked in 1709. The loss of Elizabeth marked the end of her contribution to the Royal Navy’s efforts to maintain naval dominance. Further details concerning the specific circumstances of her wreck are currently unavailable.