[1] Franklin was originally a Marblehead fishing vessel fitted out by order of Colonel George Washington in 1775.

In October 1775, Hancock and Franklin were ordered to intercept two brigs as they arrived in the St. Lawrence River from England.

The story of their illegal actions reached General Washington who dismissed both ship commanders and returned their prizes to Canadian owners with apologies.

James Mugford, the Franklin surprised and captured the British ordnance ship, Hope, which was headed to Nantasket Roads in Boston Harbor carrying 1,500 barrels of gunpowder, 1,000 carbines and other material.

Mugford ran Hope to shore at or near Boston to offload the cargo, which was badly needed by the Continental Army.