John Paul Jones bronze plaque

This bronze commemorative plaque records: The Whitehaven Battery. The only unfriendly American invasion of Britain occurred at Whitehaven in the early hours of 23rd April 1778. John Paul Jones, who apprenticed in the town, led men of the Continental Navy ashore and spiked the harbour's defensive guns before making his getaway. At a ceremony witnessed by representatives of the US Navy on 27th June 1999, Jones was formally pardoned by the Commissioner of the Harbour of Whitehaven, on behalf of the people of the town. Recorded plaque organisation: Renaissance of Whitehaven.

Cdre Capt John Paul Jones, a Scottish-American naval commander in the Continental Navy, is remembered for his role in the American Revolutionary War and for leading the only unfriendly American invasion of Britain at Whitehaven in 1778. His actions, though controversial, highlighted his daring and contributed to his status as one of the early heroes of the U.S. Navy.