News of Nelson - William JP McDowell

HMS Pickle at Falmouth.
Lieutenant Lapenotiere disembarks with the momentous news of Trafalgar.

Pickle was the first ship to bring the news of Nelson's victory to Great Britain, arriving at Falmouth on 4 November 1805. Vice Admiral Collingwood, who had assumed command after the death of Nelson, chose her to carry his dispatches describing the battle and announcing Nelson's death.

After arriving in Falmouth, Lapenotiere took a coach to London to deliver the dispatches to the Admiralty. The Admiralty promoted him to Commander for this service. The Committee of the Lloyd's Patriotic Fund gave him a sword worth 100 guineas.

Original oil on canvas laid down on board 

Signed "William McDowell" lower right 

Canvas size 19 x 27 inches (48cm x68 cm)

Frame size: 24 x 32.5 inches (61 x 82cm)