VERNON (Edward, 1684-1757, Admiral and M.P.)

Engraved oval portrait, by Benoist (Guillaume Philippe, 1725-1770), showing him full face, head and shoulders in civilian dress, half length, engraved surface 4" x 4" in margins 5½" x 5", no date, circa laid down

In 1740, Vernon was the first to issue rum diluted with water ('grog'). He was known as Old Grog from the grogram sea cloak he wore. He had long and distinguished service, including the capture of Porto Bello. Also a Tory M.P., he attacked the policies of his Whig masters at the Admiralty in anonymous pamphlets and in 1746 was cashiered.

Item Date:  1770

Stock No:  52737