Cavalier Captain: Extracts from the Sea Journals of Francis Digby, 1666-1672, a draft for a topic booklet by David Ellison.

The contents of the booklet include a three page legend, the is divided into subjects 'family, volunteer, command, convoy, privateer, Barbary, battle.' The booklet is written in typescript and contains footnotes to primary and secondary sources consulted.

The original sea journals are kept at the British Library see reference: Add MS 17484.

Administrative / biographical background
Captain Francis Digby served in the Restoration navy. In 1666 he was appointed lieutenant to the ROYAL CHARLES. In 1666, he was promoted captain of the JERSEY. In 1667, he was appointed captain of the GREENWICH. In 1668, he was appointed captain of the MONTAGU. In 1672, he was captain of the HENRY (74 guns). He was killed at the Battle of Solebay, on 28 May 1672. Digby, besides being a captain in the navy also held the post of captain of the Duke of York and Albany's Maritime Regiment of Foot, being the first officer to hold a double commission.

Record Details

Item reference: BGR/44; MSS/73/005 MS1973/005
Catalogue Section: Manuscript volumes acquired singly by the Museum
Level: ITEM
Extent: 1 booklet: 55 pages.
Date made: 1666-1672
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London