Saunders, Sir Charles

(1713-1775)

   Born in Scotland. Entered the navy in 1727, becoming lieutenant in 1734. In 1739-1740 served under Lord Anson. Stationed in home waters in 1745, and on Oct. 14, 1747, took part in Hawke's victory over the French. In 1750 elected member of Parliament for Plymouth. In 1752 commodore and commander-in-chief on the Newfoundland station; in 1755 comptroller of the navy; and in 1756, rear admiral. In 1759 Pitt appointed him commander-in-chief of the fleet which co-operated with Wolfe in the siege of Quebec, with the rank of vice-admiral of the blue, and his operations in the St. Lawrence largely contributed to the success of the British arms. In 1760 commander-in-chief in the Mediterranean; in 1761 created K.B.; in 1765 a lord of the Admiralty; in 1766 first lord; and in 1770 reached the rank of admiral.

   Index: WM Appointed to naval command of expedition against Quebec, 75; sails for Louisbourg, and puts in at Halifax, 75; his fleet detained at Louisbourg, 78; takes soundings of Traverse Channel, 90; joins in attack on French left at Montmorency, 136; orders burning of two stranded transports, 142; makes feint opposite Beauport, 164, 174; Wolfe's bequest to, 175; advances vessels in front of Lower Town, 231.

   Bib.: Dict. Nat. Biog.; Doughty, Siege of Quebec; Wood, Logs of the Conquest of Canada and The Fight for Canada; Bradley, The Fight with France.