Canton

Canton was launched in 1790 as an East Indiaman. She made eight voyages for the British East India Company (EIC) between 1791 and 1811. She was sold and served for a while as a West Indiaman, transport, and storeship. Her hulk was sunk in 1829 to form a dry dock at Limehouse. She was finally broken up in 1898. Career The EIC engaged Canton for six voyages, and then engaged her for an additional two voyages. EIC voyage #1 (1791–1792) Captain Thomas Bretrell sailed from The Downs on 27 January 1791, bound for Bombay and China. Canton reached Bombay on 23 May, and arrived at Whampoa Anchorage on 16 September. Homeward bound, she crossed the Second Bar on 23 November, reached St Helena on 2 March 1792, and arrived at Purfleet on 24 April. EIC voyage #2 (1794–1795) War with France had broken out before Cantons second voyage. Captain Thomas Bretrell acquired a letter of marque on 3 April 1794.