HMS Keppel was originally the American privateer brig New Broom, hailing from New Haven, Connecticut. Built for privateering purposes, New Broom was armed with 16 guns and operated out of New London. Her initial service was as a privateer, commanded by Captain Israel Bishop, who received his commission in July 1778. Her capture came on 22 October 1778, when the British Royal Navy, under Captain Charles Phipps aboard the ships Ariel and Savage, seized her off Nantucket Shoals. During this engagement, New Broom was also responsible for capturing the schooners Lark and Three Friends. After her capture, she was brought into British service at Boston on 5 August 1778. Renamed HMS Keppel, she was commissioned under Lieutenant Richard Whitworth. As part of the Royal Navy, Keppel saw active service during the American Revolutionary War. In September–October 1779, she participated in the siege of Savannah, contributing to the British efforts during this significant campaign. On 9 September 1780, under Lieutenant Robert Steel's command, Keppel engaged in a notable, though inconclusive, three-hour single-ship action with the American USS Saratoga. This encounter was significant enough to result in Steel’s promotion to Master and Commander. Further demonstrating her versatility and involvement in covert operations, Keppel, under Captain Steel, accompanied the brig Sir Henry Clinton and the sloop Association on 17 June 1781. The small force conducted a successful raid on Patriot blockhouses on Leete’s Island near Sachem Head, aiding British efforts in the region. Keppel’s service record reflects her importance as a versatile vessel within the Royal Navy during the American Revolutionary War, participating in key battles and covert operations. Her transition from a privateer to a naval vessel exemplifies the widespread practice of capturing and repurposing enemy ships during this period, illustrating her role in the maritime conflicts of the era.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.