After the outbreak of war with France in 1793, the Admiralty purchased 12 small mercantile vessels for use as fire ships.

The Navy never used them as such; some received armament and served with Sidney Smith's squadron off the French coast.

Olive Branch underwent fitting at Woolwich between April 1794 and 3 July 1795.

Mister Patrick Campbell commissioned her in June and commanded her until some point in 1796.

[1] The "Principal Officers and Commissioners of his Majesty's Navy" offered "Olive Branch, Fire-Vessel 105 tons, lying at Woolwich" for sale on 24 February 1802.