Joseph Barss

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Joseph Barss (21 February 1776 in Liverpool, Nova Scotia – August 3, 1824 near Kentville, Nova Scotia) was a sea captain of the schooner Liverpool Packet, and was one of the most successful privateers on the North American Atlantic coast leading into the War of 1812.

The son of sea captain Joseph Barss Sr. and Elizabeth Crowell, Barss' parents had married in 1773. Barss gained experience in privateering against the French in the 1790s, serving as an officer in several privateer vessels and commanding the schooner Lord Spencer.

In 1812, Barss took command of the Liverpool Packet, a captured slave ship originally named the "Severn". Within a year, he had captured at least 33 American vessels. He was known for his excellent use of intelligence on American shipping movement as well as fair treatment of prisoners.

In 1813, following pursuit by the schooner Thomas of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, which ended in a short battle, Barss surrendered the Packet. Barss was set free, according to legend on terms that he never return to privateering. He settled near Kentville, Nova Scotia and lived there the rest of his life.

The Stan Rogers' song, "Barrett's Privateers" may have provided some inspiration from the exploits of Captain Joe, although the ship described in the popular song bore little resemblance to the sleek, fast lines of the Liverpool Packet and the inept Captain Barrett has no resemblance to the skilled and successful Joseph Barss.