HMS Jamaica (44)

HMS Jamaica was a 44-gun fifth-rate frigate of the Roebuck-class, built for the Royal Navy under contract by Thomas Bucknall, at his shipyard in Newington, and launched on 28 June 1777.

Her design followed the lines established by Sir John Williams and the 1773 Establishment. Jamaica saw extensive service during the American Revolutionary War, primarily operating in the Caribbean. She participated in several naval engagements, including the Battle of Grenada in 1779.

She continued to serve in the Royal Navy after the American Revolution, seeing action during the French Revolutionary Wars and the Napoleonic Wars. During this time, she was involved in blockade duties and convoy escort.

In 1801, Jamaica was converted to a storeship. This adaptation involved removing her armament and reconfiguring her interior to maximize cargo capacity. She continued to serve the Royal Navy in this capacity, supporting naval operations and supply lines.

HMS Jamaica was eventually sold out of the service on 22 February 1813. Her long career spanned a turbulent period in naval history, seeing action in multiple conflicts and demonstrating the versatility of Royal Navy frigates. The designation "(44)" refers to her original gun rating, indicating the number of guns she was initially designed to carry.