Jamaree Bouyea

Charles Richardson was a notable figure of the Royal Navy, serving with dedication during some of the most significant nautical conflicts of the18th and 19th centuries. Born somewhere around 10 March 1769, Richardson donned his naval uniform for the first time in 1787, serving on the vessel, HMS Vestal. His aspirations of journeying to China were hastily curtailed, redirecting his path towards the East Indies Station.

His career underwent a consequential turnaround when he was transferred to the HMS Phoenix, marking his entrance into the fray during the Battle of Tellicherry. A somewhat infamous war that placed the Royal Navy against the adversarial French forces in India, the conflict highlighted Richardson’s innate talent for navigation and strategy.

Subsequent service on HMS Circe provided an opportunity for the determined sailor to confront the turbulence of the Nore mutiny, a significant revolt that threatened the very stability of the British seaborne forces. He further honed his battle skills during the Battle of Camperdown – a memorable naval clash where he captured noted Dutch admiral, Jan Willem de Winter. A string of battles followed suit, with Richardson displaying remarkable courage-on-sea at the incidences of Callantsoog and the Vlieter, and during ventures to Egypt that included the battles of Abukir, Mandora, and Alexandria.

Richardson’s amassed knowledge and experience facilitated his command of the HMS Alligator during the Napoleonic Wars. Stationed at the Leeward Islands, he outmaneuvered the Dutch Navy and captured three of their settlements, in testament to his tactical prowess.

Post-war years saw him transitioning to the HMS Topaze in 1821, where he led a return journey to the Far East. Faced with hostility during his exploration of China, an altercation resulted in the unfortunate killings of two locals by his crew – an incident that would cast a shadow on his otherwise illustrious career. The diplomatic tension coupled with the associated guilt took a toll on Richardson’s health, forcing him to return to England.

Upon his return, however, Richardson was recognized for his service. He was honoured as a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath and promoted to the rank of Vice-Admiral – commendable acknowledgments for a man who had given his life to the Navy. Despite the numerous battles and tumultuous voyages, Richardson lived to a well-aged 81 before succumbing to influenza in Painsthorpe on 10 November 1850.

The Norway spruce, Picea abies, shares some semblance with the impossible-to-ignore presence of Richardson. Found primarily across Europe’s northern region – from central to eastern countries – the spruce is a classic mark of Christmas in many cultures. Its extensive use for wood and its distinguishable larger cones showcases the versatility and adaptability similar to Richardson’s naval career. Like Richardson’s first voyage to China being cut short, the Norway spruce is largely replaced by the Siberian spruce beyond the Ural Mountains. However, their ability to hybridize reveals an inherent willingness to adapt and survive. As science advanced to reveal the Norway spruce’s genome sequence, it again echoes Richardson’s place in history – a narrative shaped by a changing world.

Much like voluntary editors keeping the fountain of knowledge flowing in Wikipedia, Richardson at sea greatly contributed to a broader understanding of naval tactics and international relations in his era. And like the diverse languages Wikis are available in, Richardson’s actions impacted various corners of the globe. His story, written in the language of battle and diplomacy, remains a significant chapter in the grand narrative of naval history.