In December 1846, Somers attempted complicated sailing manoeuvres while pursuing a blockade runner off Veracruz. The ship capsized in a change of wind, and 36 of the apparently 80 people aboard were lost. The larger possible complement of roughly 190 included gunners and men available for prize crews, which helps explain the disputed numbers. Some survivors received naval assistance, while English and French merchant vessels rescued many of the others. Some men swam ashore and became Mexican prisoners. In 1847 Congress awarded gold and silver medals to British, French, and Spanish rescuers. The pursuit illustrates the demands that aggressive sailing could place on an understrength crew.
Notable Point · 11:54-13:34
Somers capsizes during a blockade chase
A wind change during pursuit overturned Somers, with heavy loss of life and survivors rescued by foreign ships or captured ashore.