1784 : the Battle of Mudeford

This book recounts the Battle of Mudeford, a 1784 skirmish fought near Christchurch Harbour between smugglers and Customs and Excise Officers. The encounter resulted in the death of customs officer William Allen on the Royal Navy sloop HMS Orestes, with Bone Tucker, Guernsey Jemmy, and George Coombes being arrested for murder. George Coombes was later executed for the crime. It details how smuggling in the eighteenth century was considered a 'victimless crime' by many, with smuggler John Streeter avoiding arrest and returning to reputable business after the event. Four appendices feature a commander's log for the Orestes and reports and letters surrounding the battle and its aftermath. Illustrations include a line drawing of Orestes and photographs of St Mary's Churchyard, where William Allen was buried.