Pett dynasty

The Pett dynasty was a family of English shipwrights who dominated naval shipbuilding in England from the late 16th century to the late 17th century. Their contributions were instrumental in establishing the English navy as a major maritime power.

The dynasty's founder was Peter Pett (c. 1510-1589), a master shipwright in the royal dockyards. He worked at Deptford and Woolwich and is credited with building some of the earliest purpose-built warships in the English navy.

His son, Phineas Pett (1570-1647), was perhaps the most famous member of the dynasty. Educated at Cambridge, he combined academic knowledge with practical shipbuilding expertise. He became a leading naval architect and served as Master Shipwright at Deptford and then as a Commissioner of the Navy. He is renowned for designing and building the Prince Royal, launched in 1610, considered one of the finest ships of its time. His autobiography provides valuable insight into shipbuilding practices of the era.

Phineas Pett's son, Peter Pett (1610-1672), also followed in the family tradition, serving as a Commissioner of the Navy. He oversaw shipbuilding during the English Civil War and the Restoration. Although he held positions of influence, he faced criticism for alleged mismanagement and was even impeached by Parliament for his role in the Medway Raid of 1667, when the Dutch fleet sailed up the Medway River and destroyed or captured many English ships.

Another notable member was Sir William Pett (dates unavailable), a descendant of the family who continued in shipbuilding.

The Pett dynasty's influence declined after the late 17th century as new shipbuilding techniques and different management practices emerged within the English navy. However, their legacy as skilled shipwrights and important figures in the development of English maritime power remains significant.