14 Facts About James Vashon

Admiral James Vashon was a British officer of the Royal Navy.

James Vashon saw service during the Seven Years' War, the American War of Independence and the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.

James Vashon was first captain of HMS Dreadnought, between 1801 and 1802.

Washington's Vashon Island was named after him by the explorer George Vancouver, who had been Vashon's subordinate in Europa.

James Vashon is reported to have been stationed for many years in the West Indies.

James Vashon was the son of the Vicar of Eye, the Reverend James Volant Vashon.

James Vashon was quickly promoted to first-lieutenant when Lieutenant Peter Rainier was promoted and transferred off the Maidstone.

James Vashon achieved recognition with his action during the capture of the French ship Lion, when he was given command of the prize and over 200 prisoners, and successfully reached the British naval base at Antigua.

James Vashon then married Sarah Rainier, the sister of his earlier shipmate Peter Rainier.

James Vashon instituted a formal convoy system out of Leith to protect this vital shipping route, and was so successful that he was promoted to Vice-Admiral in 1808.

When James Vashon decided to retire in late 1808, the merchants and leaders of Leith were so pleased that they gave him a public dinner, awarded him two commemorative plates, and honoured him as a Freeman of the City of Edinburgh.

James Vashon retired to Ludlow where he lived at Number 54 Broad Street.

James Vashon was promoted to Admiral in 1814, and died on 27 October 1827 at the age of 85.

James Vashon was buried at St Laurence Church in Ludlow.