English Captain: Robert Coleman

Robert Coleman served in the Commonwealth Navy. In 1650 to 1651, he commanded the Fortune of London, a vessel of 200 tons that carried 20 guns and had a crew of 80 men. Andrew pointed this out to me and I found one of the entries in the House of Commons Journal, Vol.VI. In 1653, he commanded the hired merchantman Globe (30 guns). He fought in the Battle of the Gabbard, where he was assigned to Lionel Lane's division. Presumably, he fought in the Battle of Scheveningen, as well. Apparently, in December 1653, he commanded the Dutch prize Arms of Holland (ex-Wapen van Holland) and was engaged in convoying colliers. From 1655 to 1656, he commanded the Wexford. From later in 1656 until 1658, he commanded the 4th Rate Elizabeth. Sources:

1. R. C. Anderson, List of English Naval Captains 1642-1660, 1964.

2. C. T. Atkinson, Ed., The First Dutch War, Vol.V, 1912.

3. C. T. Atkinson, Ed., The First Dutch War, Vol. VI, 1930.

4. Journal of the House of Commons, Vol.6, for the date 29 May 1651.