Early frigate-built hulls were relatively long and narrow, reflecting experiments in length-to-beam ratio. A frigate-built ship could be a substantial ship of the line, so the term initially described more than the later familiar escort category. Fifth and sixth rates subsequently acquired the frigate label, with fifth rates the most common example. Their cruising duties made them useful for maintaining presence far from the main fleet. The original six large American frigates illustrate how these ships could become the principal strength of a smaller navy.
Chapter · 12:59-14:33
Frigate-built hulls, sailing rates and overseas cruising
The frigate name moved from hull form toward the smaller rated ships used for cruising and overseas presence.