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$417.00
The Russian Brig Mercury 20 gun brig Mercury was laid down in Sevastopol on January 28, 1819. She was designed as a patrol ship to guard the Northern Caucasus coast. Built of Crimean oak, with a shallow draught and equipped with oars, the Mercury was launched on 7 May 1820 and broken up on November 9, 1857. The Mercury fought in many important naval battles during her career; the most notable being when Mercury (commanded by lieutenant A. Kazarsky) and two other ships were sailing back home from the Anatolia coast and faced a large Turkish fleet. Due to light winds Mercury was not able to escape (she was not a rapid ship), while two other Russian ships went ahead. Two Turkish SHIPS OF THE LINE engaged Mercury into an apparently hopeless battle, which, however the Russian crew decided to make a bold stand.
After few hours of heavy fighting, the much smaller and massively out matched (on paper) Russian brig, maneuvering both under sail and oars, had severely damaged the rigging of Turkish ships (dismasting at least one of them) and thus forced them to retreat. It is recorded that after the battle, a navigator of one the Turkish ships made a comment praising Mercury for her gallantry and strength, and the captain for his bravery; If in the great deeds of ancient or our times there are the feats of bravery, so this act put the others in the shade and the name of a hero should be wrote by the gold letter in the shrine of glory: the captain was Kazarsky, and the name of this brig was Mercury. Mercury is one of the most famous vessels of the Russian Navy, and Amati have researched this vessel as much as possible to make it as accurate and well detailed as it can be.
The Mercury kit includes laser cut wooden frames, keels and decks; double planking for the hull; metal fittings and brass photo-etched parts.
Plans and instructions are included as well as a laser cut wooden stand.
The Russian Brig Mercury was a formidable vessel that played a significant role in the country’s maritime history. Built in 1806 in the port city of St. Petersburg, the Mercury was specifically designed for naval operations in the Baltic Sea. The brig was constructed using the latest technology and was armed with 18 guns, making it a powerful and versatile ship. It had a length of 125 feet and a displacement of 430 tons, making it a relatively small but swift vessel.
The Mercury was named after the Roman god of commerce, which was fitting as it was primarily used for trade and commerce in the Baltic region. However, the brig also played a crucial role in protecting Russian trade routes and defending against enemy attacks. Its advanced design and weaponry made it a formidable opponent for any enemy ships that dared to challenge it.
The Mercury was also involved in several important military campaigns, including the Russo-Swedish War of 1808-1809 and the Napoleonic Wars. During these conflicts, the brig proved its worth as a crucial asset to the Russian navy, participating in key battles and successfully defending its country’s interests.
One of the most notable features of the Mercury was its speed. With a top speed of 12 knots, it was known for being one of the fastest ships in the Russian fleet. This allowed it to quickly navigate through the treacherous waters of the Baltic Sea and outmaneuver enemy ships. The brig’s maneuverability was also aided by its sleek design, which made it easier to handle and control in the midst of battle.
The Mercury’s crew was highly skilled and well-trained, making them an effective and cohesive unit. They were led by experienced and capable captains, who were known for their strategic thinking and bravery in the face of danger. The crew’s morale was also boosted by the fact that the Mercury had a reputation for being a lucky ship, having survived numerous battles with minimal damage.
Despite its impressive military capabilities, the Mercury was also used for scientific expeditions and exploration. In 1820, it embarked on a voyage to the Arctic, led by renowned Russian explorer and navigator, Fyodor Litke. The brig played a crucial role in the expedition, conducting scientific research and mapping previously uncharted territories.
The Mercury continued to serve in the Russian navy for several decades, with various upgrades and modifications made to keep it up-to-date with advancing technology. However, in 1854, during the Crimean War, it was captured by the British and eventually sold to private owners. Despite its eventual fate, the Russian Brig Mercury will forever be remembered as a symbol of Russian naval prowess and a crucial part of the country’s maritime history.
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$417.00
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