Peter Easton

By Crusader1307

Easton was one of the “lucky ones” with regards to his Pirate career. Coming from a Seafaring family, it was no stretch that Peter went to sea. In 1602, he was commissioned a Privateer by Queen Elizabeth I – and tasked with protection of The Newfoundland Fishing Fleet. Fishing Ships often were armed in Elizabethan Times for protection against foreign raiders and Pirates. Easton's Commission also gave him the authority to “press gang” crews as needed. Thus, he was able to create a sizable Fleet. His Flagship, The “Happy Adventure” was a terror to Spain. After The Spanish Aggression against England ended, all Privateer Commissions ended. Peter (as did many Privateers) did not surrender his – and so began his Pirate career. Oddly, England still paid him a commission on his continued Spanish hauls. Easton even went so far as to “set up shop” in The Bristol Channel to stop all ships entering Port for fees (actually Easton was being paid by a Noble Family (with Royal connections) so England did not stop this activity!) By 1612, Easton commanded some 10 ships (still using The St. George Cross Flag, ironically). He took a “brief” break from English waters to raid The Caribbean (quite successfully). Around 1713, Easton decided to retire in Savoy, France. He had acquired some 2 million in gold and the title of Marquis. His death is speculated at 1725.