Admiral John Lawson - a famous Scarborian
One of the most prominent Scarborians in history is almost totally unknown to many from the town. He was born in complete obscurity in the east end of the town in the lower part of Merchants’ Row (which later became Eastborough). Born in poverty he rose to the rank of Admiral in the 17th century.
He was sent to sea at an early stage and after acquiring complete knowledge of his profession he quitted the merchant service and entered the Royal Navy.
He was noticed by officers for his industry and sobriety and although “destitute of friends and interest, he was advanced on account of his extra ordinary merit”.
He was a Captain in some famous fights with the Dutch and English in 1653. Along with two others he captured a Dutch Man of War. For this action he was promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral in June 1653. He engaged the Dutch again under the command of Monk and Dean. Here he laid his ship alongside a Dutch Admiral and sank a ship of 42 guns. That same year he again locked horns with an old foe, de Ruyter, leaving his ship so disabled that it had to be towed back to port.
He was appointed to command a fleet of 44 sail. This was sent to Holland and collected a few prizes.
In April 1657 Cromwell assumed power. Although respected at first he became associated with a group of officers known as the “Fifth Monarchy Men” who were discontented with the regime. He was, therefore, arrested and placed in jail. He was later released into retirement. He later took up farming appearing in Scarborough’s rent rolls in 1658.
When Admiral Montague returned from the Baltic he was brought from retirement and declared Vice Admiral. He was ordered to take charge of the whole fleet.
Clarendon says that in politics he was a Republican and being Commander of the Fleet when Cromwell was thrown out, he brought the whole fleet into the river and declared for that which was called Parliament, which entirely frustrated other designs, although he had only intended a better settlement of the Commonwealth.
He was sent for by the King to serve under the Duke of York. He was respected yet considered blunt and rough in his manners.
After the Restoration, he was knighted by King Charles I.
He was a member of Scarborough Corporation for many years, but due to absence and military service this was largely just an honorary role.
Subsequently, he was involved in the Mediterranean against the Algerians. He blocked them so effectively that they sued for peace. In his final action he was shot in the knee. He was ordered ashore at Greenwich and it proved to be fatal as the wound gangrened.
Sources
The Mercury, 30 April 1926
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