Early Life and Family Background
Sir Peircy Brett was born in 1709, likely in the southern part of England, although his exact birthplace remains unclear. He hailed from a respectable family and pursued a career in the Royal Navy from a young age, which was a common route for ambitious young men of his era. Little is known about his early life or education, but his decision to join the Royal Navy laid the groundwork for a distinguished naval career that spanned several decades.
Naval Career and Rise to Prominence
Brett joined the Royal Navy in 1725 as a midshipman, gaining early experience during peacetime deployments. His career began to advance when he was selected to serve under Commodore George Anson, a prominent naval officer. Brett became a lieutenant in 1734, a rank he held during his early service under Anson. Brett’s naval career truly took off when he became part of Anson’s celebrated circumnavigation of the globe (1740–1744).
In 1740, Brett was appointed second lieutenant of the HMS Centurion, the flagship of Anson’s expeditionary squadron. This four-year voyage was tasked with attacking Spanish colonies and commerce during the War of Jenkins’ Ear. During the circumnavigation, Brett distinguished himself for his seamanship, bravery, and reliability, earning Anson’s trust and respect. The expedition faced numerous challenges, including severe weather, scurvy, and fierce combat with Spanish ships, particularly at the Battle of Manila Galleon in 1743, where Anson’s forces captured a valuable treasure-laden Spanish galleon.
Brett’s role in the voyage was significant. He was appointed captain of the HMS Gloucester after the death of Captain Richard Norris and later, in 1743, captain of the HMS Centurion itself. Upon returning to England in 1744, Brett was praised for his contributions to the successful voyage, which boosted Britain’s naval prestige and provided vital funds for the crown.
Post-Voyage Career and Knighthood
Following the circumnavigation, Peircy Brett’s naval career continued to flourish. He became captain of the HMS Yarmouth, a 64-gun ship of the line, in 1745 and commanded her during the War of the Austrian Succession. Brett’s success on the high seas earned him significant recognition, and in 1745, he was knighted by King George II in acknowledgment of his services during Anson’s expedition.
Brett’s reputation grew, and he held various high-ranking naval positions in the years that followed. In 1753, he was appointed to the Admiralty Board, serving as one of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty, a position of considerable influence. He became a rear-admiral in 1757 and was later promoted to vice-admiral in 1759, coinciding with Britain’s naval dominance during the Seven Years’ War (1756–1763). Brett played a role in administrative decisions and strategic planning during this critical period of British maritime history.
Later Life and Legacy
Sir Peircy Brett continued to serve the Royal Navy in various capacities, including as Commander-in-Chief of the Mediterranean Fleet. He retired from active service with the rank of admiral in 1778, after a naval career spanning over five decades. He was known for his dedication to the navy, his loyalty to Anson, and his administrative abilities.
Brett passed away on October 14, 1781, leaving behind a legacy as one of Britain’s most experienced naval commanders of the 18th century. He had contributed significantly to Britain’s naval successes during the mid-18th century, particularly through his involvement in the famous circumnavigation led by George Anson. Although Brett’s name is not as widely recognized today, his contributions were essential in shaping Britain’s maritime power during a critical period in its history.
References
- Laughton, J. K. Dictionary of National Biography, 1885-1900, Vol. 06. "Brett, Peircy." London: Smith, Elder & Co.
- Anson, George. A Voyage Round the World in the Years MDCCXL, I, II, III, IV. London: J. and P. Knapton, 1748.
- Rodger, N. A. M. The Command of the Ocean: A Naval History of Britain 1649–1815. London: Penguin, 2004.