A Little Story about a Big Battle - Filey Promenade

Let us tell you "A Little Story about a Big Battle" that took place off the Yorkshire Coast in 1779 during the American War of Independence. We will bring to life this significant event during our 246th Anniversary Annual Festival.

The Battle of Flamborough Head has gone down in American folklore as "that" battle in which the father of the US Navy, John Paul Jones, exclaimed, "Surrender? I have not yet begun to fight!".

The Americans have always claimed they won the battle despite the sinking of their ship, the Bohomme Richard. The Franco-American squadron did capture the two Royal Navy escort ships - HMS Serapis and Countess of Scarborough. However, it isn't that simple or clear-cut. The Royal Navy captains, Richard Pearson and Thomas Piercy, achieved their mission and saved the convoy of over 40 supply ships destined to naval shipyards up and down the coast. It was "just a normal day at the office" for captains in the Royal Navy.

Come and listen to an entertaining "Little Story about a Big Battle" and find out why both sides claim victory!