Toulon, 1744 (Toulon, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur) 42°46'39"N 05°41'27"E

A map of the naval Battle of Toulon or Cape Sicié, 22-24 February 1744. War of the Austrian Succession (1740-48).

This is one of a series of seven numbered maps (RCINs 729008.a-g). The dates on the maps are all given in Old Style, i.e. according to the Julian Calendar which was, after 1700, 11 days behind the Gregorian, or New Style date. The new year began on Lady Day (25 March). The British Isles adopted the Gregorian Calendar in 1752. The maps were printed for J. Millan in 1745 from original material to accompany an account of the battle which was presented to the House of Commons by Vice-Admiral Lestock, in vindication of his actions. A notice at the beginning of the printed account reads: 'March 20, 1744-5. / In a few Days will be Publish'd, / From the Originals presented by Adm--r-l / L-st--k, to the House of Commons: / All the material Situations, Views and Positions, in the late Engagement near Toulon, of / His Majesty's Fleet, and those of France and / Spain: Curiously engrav'd on Seven Sheets of / fine Imperial Paper.' (see BL Maps. C.10.c.17 and Maps C.10.c.18.)

The British fleet, under the command of Admiral Thomas Mathews, Vice-Admiral Richard Lestock, and Rear-Admiral William Rowley, attacked the Spanish Fleet as it sailed out of Toulon Harbour, where it had been blockaded for two years. A fierce battle ensued but the result was inconclusive. The French, commanded by Vice-Admiral Claude Court de la Bruyère, and the Spaniards, led by Rear-Admiral Don Juan José Navarro, combined successfully to resist the British attack. (Rodger 2004, p.243.)

Additional text: [bottom, below chart, a key, a-i, k-z, to the dispositions of various ships:] EXPLANATION [and an account of the actions:] REMARKS.

For further reading, see:
N.A.M. Rodger, The command of the Ocean: a naval history of Britain 1649-1815, London, 2004.

Condition: one fold line.