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Memoirs Frigate Hermione La Fayette (II): Shipwreck, Location and Reconstruction of the French Ship

Posted on January 17, 2024January 17, 2024 by Administrador DelBlog

After the help it provided in the United States War of Independence, we continue telling the memoirs of the frigate Hermione La Fayette on this post. Specifically, we will talk about its latest missions, its rediscovery at the bottom of the sea and its reconstruction with a replica that exists today. Given the great historical relevance of this large French sailboat, the modelers of Artesanía Latina created a faithful wooden model at 1:89 scale (22517-N). Which, by the way, is now also presented at Gift Pack (22517-L) with the model, its specific paints and its figurines. All in 1 at a cheaper price than if the products are purchased separately!

Seven months after its return to France – where it underwent various repairs – it was entrusted with new campaigns. In September 1782, the frigate’s destination ocean will no longer be the Atlantic, but the Indian Ocean. The coasts of India and the Bay of Bengal await the Hermione and its new commander, Lieutenant Du Pérou. Aim? Support the fleet of Admiral Suffren, who fights on a secondary front of the American War. L’Hermione arrives at Île de France on April 18 and joins Suffren on July 14, 1783, a few days after its important victory at Gondelour. Peace was signed in 1783 and L’Hermione returned to Rochefort in February 1784, after several stops on the île de France and Île Bourbon in October 1783.

For seven years, from 1784 to 1791, the memoirs of the frigate Hermione La Fayette remain stationary in Rochefort. Its hull is very damaged and requires a very deep and long repair. Her hull and rigging are also not in optimal condition. That is why, since 1789, around 450 repairs have been carried out so that it can sail again.

MEMOIRS OF FRIGATE HERMIONE LA FAYETTE: WRECK AND LOCATION

Times of revolutionary France back in 1793. On the one hand, the country goes to war against the English in February. On the other hand, Vandean revolts occur in the west of the Gallic nation. In these turbulent times, the memoirs of the frigate Hermione La Fayette are written again with Captain Pierre Martin. This is because the French ship is heading to monitor and control the Vendeans and English at the mouth of the Loire River. They must be prevented from landing on the coast and from entering the town of Sables-d’Olonne and Nantes.

Its last mission arrives in September of that same year, which leads it to its shipwreck. Hermione only has to escort a convoy of twelve ships with a cargo of sixty-five guns from Indret between the Loire estuary and Brest. The inexperience of the crew is such that the frigate runs aground in the shallow waters of Le Croisic (Plateau du Four) breaking the hull to starboard.

The jewel of French naval history remains for almost two centuries at the bottom of the sea. It was not until July 22, 1984 when a diver, Michel Vasquez, discovered parts of the wreck. With great care, they manage to float some of the remains, thus beginning to bring the frigate Hermione La Fayette back to life. Among others, the anchor, a piece of the rudder and three cannons. The last searches with geolocator end in 2005.

RECONSTRUCTION OF THE FRIGATE: HERMIONE LA FAYETTE ASSOCIATION

The memoirs of the frigate Hermione La Fayette must be brought back to reality. For this reason, the Hermione La Fayette Association – whose official license our models hold – decides to create a replica of the French ship. In 1997, its reconstruction began at the Rochefort arsenal. Seventeen years later, on September 7th, 2014, the magnificent replica of L’Hermione was launched.

Shipyard is located in one of the two dry docks located at one end of the Corderie Royale, on the banks of the Charente River, in Rochefort. The place was designed and conditioned so that it could be visited.

The first and fundamental premise is that the replica is as faithful as possible to the original. That is, a three-masted ship with more than sixty-five meters in length, twelve hundred square meters of sails and a hull made entirely of oak wood. Without original plans, they take as reference those of Concorde, its twin frigate. On this, they are making the required changes with two goals: its adaptation to current regulations and its comfort for the crew.

These are some of the characteristics of the replica: mainmast fifty-four meters above the keel, made with two thousand oak trees, more than four hundred thousand pieces of metal and wood, one thousand pulleys, twenty-six cannons 12 pounds on the battery deck and eight 6s on the main deck.

For the rigging of 18th century ship, around 200 sailors were needed. However, the replica is only 80, which shows that it now has numerous technological improvements. The original frigate was built in just half a year, while the launch of the replica was in the 21st century, it takes six years until 2014.

HERMIONE LA FAYETTE: MODELS FOR THE DELIGHT OF MODELERS

Once its complete history is known, we encourage naval modelers to build our Hermione La Fayette model for advanced level (22517-N) if you have expertise skills or our Easy Kit model for beginners (17000).

Read first part of the post…

Naval & Aviation History

Chronicle Frigate Hermione La Fayette (I): Learn about Its Prominent Role in the US War of Independence

Posted on January 12, 2024January 17, 2024 by Administrador DelBlog

Saying its nickname, any naval modeler and lover of historical ships is enthralled: ‘The Frigate of Liberty’. Yes, we are talking about the French ship Hermione La Fayette from the 18th century. And its spectacular 1:89 scale wooden model (22517-N) for advanced modelers. But, on this post of Artesanía Latina blog, we intend to show the reader the enormous relevance in history that this beautiful French sailboat had, the chronicle of frigate Hermione La Fayette. Hence, its miniature buildable model is essential in the collection of any lover of naval modeling.

HISTORICAL CONTEXT BEFORE BUILDING THE FRIGATE HERMIONE LA FAYETTE

Last quarter of the 18th century, there is a great rivalry between France, England and Holland to gain control of different parts of the globe. When the different European nations fought for more power. At this time, France once again manages to have a worthy fleet in its fight against the British Royal Navy for the well-known colonies and for the money they bring to the coffers of the European states.

In this sense, the ‘New Continent’ sees how revolts begin to occur in its North American colonies, a fact that France intends to take advantage of to take revenge on the British… And they will achieve this thanks to the frigate Hermione La Fayette and many other vessels that are built at the Rochefort arsenal! Precisely, the construction of the frigate occurred in a golden stage in which the French fleet achieved very relevant victories, such as the one that occurred in the United States War of Independence. France supports the American insurgents, who are continually ‘looted’ by taxes by England. And Hermione La Fayette participates fully in helping them.

On July 4th, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was written. Congress defends what has been achieved with the support of the French country, so representatives of the American Chamber visit Europe to gather weapons and to convince the authorities to have French officers fight with them. France not only accepted this in February of 1778, but also the following month declared war on England. And a 20-year-old young man has a lot to do with this Franco-American commitment. Gilbert du Motier, the marquis of La Fayette. This is the one who convinces King Louis XVI to support the Americans.

CHRONICLE FRIGATE HERMIONE LA FAYETTE: CONSTRUCTION

The chronicle of the frigate Hermione La Fayette continues with the beginning of its construction. The French minister De Sartine proposed its creation and the Council of the Port of Rochefort approved it in November 1778. Order was given to naval engineer Pierre Chevillard Sr., who, in addition to the Hermione La Fayette, also directed the construction of another frigate, the Fée. To do this, it is based on the plans of two other vessels: Courageuse and Concorde, the first two of these four frigates.

At this point, the construction was fired, which took place on the right bank of the Charente River, within the same arsenal, in December 1778. This incredible speed in assembling the sailboat is obviously due to the demand for help in the War of Independence, but it also has other factors that help achieve this speed never seen before.

Firstly, because the theoretical and practical basis in naval engineering is already available. Secondly, because of the huge workforce that is used. And thirdly, because they have the materials where they work. On this chronicle of the frigate Hermione La Fayette, it should be noted that hundreds of carpenters, blacksmiths and all types of professionals – without forgetting prisoners – are involved in its assembly so that the ship can be launched in minimal time.

CHRONICLE FRIGATE HERMIONE LA FAYETTE: CHARACTERISTICS

Hermione La Fayette is a frigate, it is a light, fast and very maneuverable ship. It is unbeatable. Its dimensions? 66 meters in length and 11.5 meters in width. Speaking of its mast, it has three vertical masts with modular dimensions and a sail of up to 3,300 square meters. Without forgetting its complex rig of 26 kilometers of rigging that requires between 250 and 300 crew members. Regarding its weapons potential, it has 32 cannons. 26 units of 12-pounder guns on the battery deck and 6 units of 6-pounder guns on the castle deck.

To provide it with extra speed, in January 1780, the hull of the Hermione La Fayette was covered in copper with 1,100 sheets of metal. Thus, the hull is protected from mollusks and algae.

INITIAL TEST IN THE GULF OF BIZCAYA AND FIRST STEPS IN AMERICA

The Bay of Biscay is the first place where it is destined, here the chronicle of the frigate Hermione La Fayette continues before its American campaign. During half a year of 1779, the commander La Touche Tréville intends to check the conditions under which the ship sails. To do this, it also recruits 292 people as a crew. Objective of this first mission? Monitor and protect the coasts of the aforementioned gulf and the English Channel where trade is continuous. The Gauls capture six English ships.

Next, in March 1780, Hermione La Fayette began her journey in the War of Independence with 316 crew members. It leaves from the port of Rochefort with the Marquis de La Fayette who is in charge of a secret mission. Meet George Washington in Boston and support him economically and militarily. The French watched the North American coastline and fought against English frigates for almost two years through campaigns to protect allied trade and attack the enemy.

In June 1780 one of the most notable battles occurred in the chronicle of the frigate Hermione La Fayette. This is because it fights against four English ships, among which is the frigate Iris. From the French ship its cannons and 1,250 rifles and blunderbusses are fired 260 times. 10 men die and 37 are injured, including the commander and his assistant. A month later, in Newport, the 5,500 men of the Count of Rochambeau’s expeditionary force disembark. This is sent by Louis XVI from the town of Brest to support the American insurgents.

CHRONICLE FRIGATE HERMIONE LA FAYETTE: VICTORY IN YORKTOWN AND RETURN

In May 1781, the reception of the United States Congress and the Council of State of Pennsylvania takes place aboard Hermione La Fayette. An official dinner is held there in the presence of the Marquis de La Fayette and Samuel Huntington, president of the Congress. This meeting is a definitive test of the friendship between the two countries.

Two months later, on the coast of Île Royale, the frigates Hermione and Astrée encounter a convoy escorted by six English ships, which they attack. It is the naval battle of Louisbourg, in which two English ships finally lower their flag. The material damage is extensive, especially to the rigging, and Hermione records twenty-two victims. This confrontation is captured by the frigate’s auxiliary lieutenant Mullon, present on board, and later painted by Auguste-Louis de Rossel de Cercy.

The frigate Hermione La Fayette has to go through a ‘workshop’ until September 10th, so it remains in Boston to fix all its damage. It gives him time, however, to participate in the siege of Yorktown in October 1781. This battle pits the allies, with the Count of Rochambeau at the forefront, against the English, led by Lord Cornwallis. After three weeks of dispute, the latter surrenders, with a quarter of the British forces fighting in the war. The victory at Yorktown led to the consequent Treaty of Versailles, which was signed in 1783, and the independence of the thirteen British colonies, which became the United States of America.

After this achievement, the chronicle of the frigate Hermione La Fayette in America closes. First, by setting sail on February 2nd from the United States and, second, by dropping anchor in the French harbor of Basques twenty-three days later.

EASY KIT HERMIONE LA FAYETTE: FOR BEGINNING MODELERS

In addition to the model for advanced modelers, Artesanía Latina has created recently the range Easy Kit with Hermione La Fayette (17000) in this one. A model intended for those who are starting out on naval modeling or, simply, for those who want to build it.

Read the second part of the post…

Ship Models

Hermione La Fayette Model Ship: The Return of the ‘Frigate of Liberty’ for Advanced Naval Modelers

Posted on April 21, 2022July 25, 2022 by Administrador DelBlog

The beautiful ‘Frigate of Liberty’ has already returned to our warehouses foe delighting our modelers friends, especially from advanced level onwards. We are talking about Hermione La Fayette model ship at 1/89 scale (22517-N). A faithful miniature replica made of wood of this 18th century flagship of French naval history.

This jewel of the naval modeling boasts the official marketing license of the Hermione La Fayette Association, which has also participated on the design of this fantastic scale model. The aforementioned Gallic group is the one in charge of the construction of the life-size replica, which began 200 years after its launch in 1997. It is noteworthy that, in 2015, it made the same trip as the original ship. Now, the modeler can also enjoy its reliable assembly with the acquisition of the modeling kit from Artesania Latina containing the Hermione La Fayette model.

We have totally renewed the old model -you can download its digital instructions-. Thanks to our team of modelers and 3D designers, we have rebuilt the legendary Gallic vessel based on the same original plans of the ship. Now, let’s get to know the contents of the naval modeling kit of this wonderful wooden model.

CONTENTS WOODEN MODELING KIT HERMIONE LA FAYETTE MODEL

Like all the products of this renowned Spanish firm, Artesania Latina, the modeling kit with Hermione La Fayette model ship at 1:89 scale is high quality. Its parts meet the highest standards so that its assembly is a delight and that the model lasts for a very long time, incalculable.

It contains a high-precision laser-cut plywood board, so the removal of the parts is very easy. And, of course, their fitting too. Also, it brings parts of noble wood and veneer such as birch, which gives the miniature a totally real look.

Regarding its numerous details, the modeling kit brings them in high quality photo-etched brass. Without forgetting a multitude of accessories made of wood, metal and brass. In short, it comes with everything so that your Hermione La Fayette model is the same as the original ship.

As for the sails, it includes cotton sails, already sewn by hand, ready to be placed. On this way we facilitate the work of our modelers friends… And with optimal sails! As a gift bonus, the exhibition base for placing the model once finished, with name plate, could not be missing. Perfect for your model ship museum! By the way, once built, the model measures 750mm long, 284mm wide and 591mm high

VERY DETAILED DIGITAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR ASSEMBLY

Of course, to assemble Hermione La Fayette model ship, this one needs some instructions. Artesania Latina has taken care to create the best guide for step-by-step digital assembly on DVD format for computers (Windows and Mac). Why are our instructions the best? For its thoroughness and precision, for its more than 2,000 images in total and, last but not least, for its explanatory video tutorials. These clearly show modeling techniques and tricks that any modeling professional puts into practice.

FINISHES AND ACCESSORIES HERMIONE LA FAYETTE MODEL SHIP

Give the final touch to the French frigate Hermione La Fayette model ship and to bring it to life, Artesania Latina has provided two magnificent extras, for sale separately. On the one hand, achieve the most faithful finishes to the original boat by painting the 1:89 scale model with your Set of Acrylic Water-Based Paints (277PACK4), quick-drying. This contains 12 jars with 20 ml each in the following colours: Off White, Off Black, Bright Red, Royal Blue, Prussian Blue, Ice Yellow, Deep Yellow, Buff, Cocoa Brown, Burnt Umber, Gold and Vermilion.

On the other hand, if you want your splendid miniature of the Gallic ship to come to life, we also offer the solution! With the Hermione La Fayette 14 Metal Figure Set (22517-F) will do just that. Includes 7 sailors and 7 officers of the French Navy. They are figurines with measurements between 0.984” (25mm) and 1.181” (30mm) ready to be assembled and painted.

If you want to glue them, we recommend to our modelers friends our Thick Cyanoacrylate and Accelerator (27650). To paint them, the Basic Paints Set for Figurines (277PACK14) or the Advanced Set (277PACK15). Our specific Synthetic Brushes for Figures and Details (17120) are ideal for this task. Do not hesitate to assemble the historic and emblematic Hermione La Fayette model ship and add all the extras! As we said at the beginning, it is without a doubt a naval modeling museum piece that should be on your collection.

HERMIONE LA FAYETTE GIFT PACK

The Hermione La Fayette Gift Pack (22517-L) brings everything the French frigate needs to show off at your home or office. The 1:89 scale model (22517-N), its specific paints set (277PACK-4) and its set of 14 metal figurines (22517-F). Do you want your loved one to be happy? Give her/him this gift pack at a lower price than if you buy the products separately… Or enjoy it yourself!