Letters and Papers of Admiral of the Fleet Sir Thomas Byam Martin

This book offers a detailed look into the life and writings of Sir Thomas Byam Martin, showcasing his naval career through personal letters and historical documents.

This volume, part of the Navy Records Society collection, presents the edited papers of Sir Thomas Byam Martin, meticulously compiled by Admiral Hamilton. The book is structured in a way that may seem unconventional, as it includes three volumes of Martin's writings that were released out of sequence, providing a unique perspective on his life and career.

Half of this particular volume is dedicated to an autobiographical collection titled 'Reminiscences and Notes.' These writings, composed after those found in Volume III, focus on Martin's formative years leading up to 1794. This section offers readers insight into his early experiences and the circumstances that shaped his naval career.

In addition to Martin's reflections, the book features correspondence from his father, detailing his entry into the Navy in 1786 and his initial service. Martin's own letters, spanning from 1795 to 1807, further illuminate his journey. Appendices enhance the narrative with historical documents, including the Captain’s Orders of the Andromeda from 1788, when Prince William Henry was in command, and the proceedings of Captain Lumsdame's court martial in 1793, in which Martin played a significant role. Overall, Letters and Papers of Admiral of the Fleet Sir Thomas Byam Martin is a valuable resource for understanding naval history and Martin's contributions to it.