Pirates captured and plundered her in 1827, but the British Royal Navy recovered her, the recovery leading to a court case for salvage.

Sir Francis N. Burton first appeared in Lloyd's Register (LR) in 1826 with Baker, owner, and trade London–Vera Cruz.

[5] Over the next two weeks Yates and his men retrieved the crew, fixed the sails, refitted the ship, and at Hare's request, conveyed her some 80 miles (130 km) to a safe anchorage.

The consignees of Sir Francis N. Burton agreed to valuation and arbitration by a three-man board, which included the Lloyd's agent at Havana.

[6] On 7 November 1829 Sir Francis N. Burton, Clibbens, master, was driven ashore near "Polagna", Russia with the loss of a crew member.