Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

Captain James Wooldridge 1809, bronze gilt medal, 40mm, obv: Fireships bearing down on the French fleet, clouds above, all within a rope border supporting a curved label below; rev: inscription within wreath ‘Captain James Wooldridge led the British fireships when four French sail of the line were burnt under their own batteries in Aix Roads’, ring suspension, good very fine and scarce £200-£300

Ref: B.H.M. 669; M.H. 562.

Captain Wooldridge was captain of the 32-gun frigate Mediator which among others was sent to destroy the Brest fleet blockaded in Basque Roads. A number of fireships were employed and in his desire to remain on board as long as possible before his ship exploded Wooldridge was blown overboard. A gold medal and chain were presented to Wooldridge for his exploits.