John Callis

By Crusader1307

A little known Pirate, John was born in South Wales (possibly in the 1520s). He (and his ship) concentrated on raiding Commerce Ships along The Wales Coast. Often he would re-sell this cargo at their intended destinations. His career last for decades without capture (owing to the small size of his vessel). Eventual pressure from Wales to England caused him to be finally arrested in 1576. Now an “old man” facing execution – Callis wished to trade information of other Pirates in exchange for his life. Welsh Authorities had him compile his “informant list” - then executed him. Using the list to track down others, almost all were found, fined and released.