On this day in Wembury — 7 February 1806

A national appeal for donations to the Lloyd’s Patriotic Fund listed Wembury Church, Devon, among its contributors. The fund, established during the Napoleonic Wars, provided relief for sailors, soldiers, marines, and volunteers wounded in service, as well as for the widows and orphans of those killed in action.

The collection from Wembury was submitted “per Admiral Calmady,” whose family resided at Langdon Court and maintained close ties with both the Royal Navy and the local parish. The Calmadys’ leadership in supporting the Fund reflected Wembury’s strong naval associations — many local men served in the fleet based at Plymouth, and the parish often rallied behind national causes tied to maritime defence.

At a time when Britain was deeply engaged in the wars against Napoleon, such parish contributions symbolised both loyalty to the Crown and gratitude toward those who fought at sea. Wembury’s inclusion among hundreds of churches and chapels across Britain highlights its enduring link to the naval and patriotic culture of early nineteenth-century Devon.

Source: Lloyd’s List / London Gazette notices reprinted nationally, 7 February 1806 (Wembury Church, per Admiral Calmady).