Hassan Bashaw

Dey of the Barbary state of Algiers in the late 18th century.

(Brig: 1. 93'2"; b. 27'; dph. 11'6"; a. 22 6-pdrs.)

Hassan Bashaw, a brig, was built for the Dey of Algiers in~response to his request in 1797 that two cruisers be outfitted and built in the United States at his expense. As the Dey had been helpful in our negotiations with other Barbary powers, President Adams acquiesced and Hassan Bashaw and Skjoldebrand, a schooner, were laid down. Hassan Bashaw was built by Joshua Humphreys' son, Samuel Humphreys, and incorporated all features of design known to be favored by the Barbary rulers. Her commander was Captain John Smith.

The ship arrived Algiers 8 February 1799 in company with Skjoldebrand and other ships carrying tribute to the Dey, who was then Mustapha, Hassan having died a year earlier. The two ships ordered thy the former Dey were transferred to Algiers, in addition to two other vessels, a quantity of naval stores, and a sum of money to insure the safety of American merchant ships from Algerians pirates. Hassan Bashaw a fast and much-admired ship, was later captured by the Portuguese on a passage between Cadiz and Algiers, but was released and used by the Dey as a corsair.