The Serapis Flag

The Serapis Flag was an early American naval ensign flown from the captured British warship Serapis during the American War of Independence. John Paul Jones was a captain in the young American navy during the founding of the republic. His daring attacks on British shipping quickly became legendary on both sides of the Atlantic. In 1779, during the Battle of Flamborough Head off the northern coast of England, John Paul Jones led a squadron of four ships against a British merchant convoy, including two warships. Jones’ ship, the Bonhomme Richard engaged the British warship Serapis, and after exchanging broadsides, Jones managed to lock the two ships together. The Bonhomme Richard was severely damaged and taking on water. When the British captain asked the Americans to surrender their sinking ship, John Paul Jones stepped into legend. He shouted words to the effect of “I have not yet begun to fight!” The battle lasted over three hours and at several points became very confused. Both ships