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Explosion of Ketch Intrepid

On September 4, 1804, the ketch Intrepid, outfitted with a large explosion charge to destroy the enemy fleet in Tripoli harbor, was apparently intercepted while entering the harbor and destroyed by a violent explosion. Lieutenant Richard Somers, commanding Intrepid, and his dozen volunteer officers and men perished in the mission. 


NH 53250: U.S. Ketch Intrepid (1804). 19th Century painting by G. Brooking, depicting Intrepid off Tripoli in 1804, illuminated by moonlight. Courtesy of Mr. J.M. Brotherhood, 1951.
Caption: NH 53250: U.S. Ketch Intrepid (1804). 19th Century painting by G. Brooking, depicting Intrepid off Tripoli in 1804, illuminated by moonlight. Courtesy of Mr. J.M. Brotherhood, 1951.

NH 2340: Lieutenant Richard Somers, US Navy.
Caption: NH 2340: Lieutenant Richard Somers, US Navy.

NH 53248: "Blowing Up of the Fire ship Intrepid commanded by Capt. Somers in the Harbour of Tripoli on the night of the 4th Sepr. 1804" Contemporary line engraving.
Caption: NH 53248: "Blowing Up of the Fire ship Intrepid commanded by Capt. Somers in the Harbour of Tripoli on the night of the 4th Sepr. 1804" Contemporary line engraving.
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Published: Thu Feb 11 14:20:54 EST 2021