Legacy of the Fancy: Henry Every’s Iconic Flagship Powerhouse (Video)

The Fancy, Henry Every’s formidable 46-gun flagship, stood as a symbol of pirate prowess during the era. Leading a formidable armada, it struck fear into the hearts of adversaries. Every, an English merchant turned pirate, seized the opportunity to commandeer the Fancy from its origins as the Charles II, built in the shipyards of London. This vessel, a fifth-rate ship, boasted 40 guns and epitomized the advancements in shipbuilding of the time.

Under Every’s command, the Fancy underwent modifications to enhance its performance and agility, typical of pirate vessels of the period. Frivolous adornments were stripped away, including ornate carvings and unnecessary deck structures, in favor of a sleeker, more functional design. These alterations not only improved the ship’s speed but also reflected Every’s pragmatic approach to piracy.

Equipped with a formidable arsenal of cannons, small arms, and explosives, the Fancy was a force to be reckoned with on the high seas and dwarfed the kinds of sloops and brigantines employed by most pirates. Every’s crew, comprised of battle-hardened scoundrels, was skilled in both swordplay and musketry, ensuring the ship’s dominance in combat.

The Fancy’s story ultimately faded into obscurity, but its legacy as a symbol of pirate ingenuity and daring exploits endures. The tale of the Fancy serves as a testament to the audacity and resourcefulness of those who sailed the seas in pursuit of riches and adventure.

Top image: Pirate Henry Avery looking into the ocean at a pirate ship. Source: Dieter Holstein/Adobe Stock

By Robbie Mitchell