Violet (ship)

The Violet was a ship used to deport Acadians from Ile St Jean (Prince Edward Island) to France, as part of the Ile Saint-Jean Campaign during the Seven Years' War. The ship sank in the North Atlantic on December 12, 1758, with the loss of 280–400 lives.

The Violet was a ship of 315 tons and 8 cannons, under command of captain Benjamin Suggit.

Together with the Duke William, John, Samuel, Neptune, Ruby, Yarmouth and an other unknown ship, the Violet was part of a fleet that left on November 25 from Port-la-Joye for France. On board the Violet were some 360 Acadian civilians.

A few days later, the fleet encountered a storm which dispersed the ships. Stormy weather continued for several weeks. On December 10, the Duke William caught sight of the Violet, and discovered that she was in difficulties, taking in water fast. The Violet sank two days later with all hands lost.

According to historian Earle Lockerby, 90 passengers had already died before from the appalling conditions on board. In the following days, the Duke William and Ruby also foundered, with great loss of life.

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