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"The Cock of the Fleet" (colour photo)
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"The Cock of the Fleet" (colour photo)
8668622 "The Cock of the Fleet" (colour photo) by English Photographer, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: "The Cock of the Fleet." The term "Cock of the Fleet" has been applied to the leading ship in competitive exercises, regattas, etc, for over a hundred years. Its origin dates from the "Battle of the Saints" of 12 April 1782. This is explained in extracts from a letter written by an officer who fought in HMS Formidable that day: "A shot from the Ville de Paris struck a hen-coop that had been left on the spar deck. Out from the ruins of his home fluttered a little bantam-cock and impudently perched himself on the rail of the poop. As every broadside poured into the Ville de Paris, he cheered the crew with his shrill clarion . . . Admiral Rodney was charmed and gave orders that the bird should be petted for the rest of his life." Illustration for one of a set of 50 cigarette cards on the subject of Interesting Customs and Traditions of the Navy, Army and Airforce issued by Lambert & Butler in 1939.); © Look and Learn
Media ID 38197456
© © Look and Learn / Bridgeman Images
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The Cock of the Fleet
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating colour print by an English photographer from the 20th century, depicting a proud bantam-cock perched on the rail of a ship. The image captures the essence of leadership and resilience, as the cock symbolizes the leading ship in competitive exercises and regattas.
The origin of the term "Cock of the Fleet" dates back to the historic "Battle of the Saints" in 1782, where a shot from an enemy ship struck a hen-coop on board HMS Formidable. From amidst the ruins emerged a little bantam-cock, who defiantly perched himself on deck and cheered on his crew with his shrill clarion. Admiral Rodney was so charmed by this brave bird that he ordered it to be petted for life.
This print is part of a set of cigarette cards titled "Interesting Customs and Traditions of Navy, Army and Airforce," issued by Lambert & Butler in 1939. It serves as a reminder of the unique customs and folklore that have shaped naval history for centuries.
"The Cock of the Fleet" stands as a testament to courage, camaraderie, and tradition within maritime culture. Its vibrant colours and rich history make it a truly captivating piece that resonates with admirers of naval heritage worldwide.
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