The Treasure of Lima

Two hundred years ago, Lima in Peru had some amazing treasures. But the Viceroy decided that this fabulous wealth would be safer in Mexico for safekeeping. Some people believe it was worth about 40 million pounds. It was all put on a ship called the Mary Dear. Her captain was William Thompson. But Thompson and his crew decided to become pirates. They killed the guards and set sail for Cocos Island, near Costa Rica, where it’s said they buried the treasure. They were going to come back at another time to divide up all the riches.

But the ship was captured and the crew were put on trial for piracy. Everyone was hanged except for Captain Thompson and his first mate. They promised to lead their captors to the treasure. But when they reached Cocos Island, they managed to escape into the jungle. Thompson, his first mate and the treasure was never seen again.

The Lioness of Brittany

Here’s a fierce pirate – Jeanne de Clisson. She was French and after her husband was executed she started attacking the King of France’s ships. She was called the Lioness of Brittany. Her ships were black with red sails so they must have looked really awesome. Mrs de Clisson would personally kill her captives in revenge for her husband. She always left a few alive so they could spread the tale of how fierce she was. The amazing thing is, she didn’t die in battle or on the hangman’s noose. She retired to England! I wouldn’t have liked to be her neighbour! 

Warning! Don't try this in 1706.

Here’s a silly joke for you, shipmates.

Why do seagulls fly over the sea?

Because if they flew over the bay, they’d be bagels!

Warning… don’t try it on a pirate crew from 300 years ago like I did. They hadn’t heard of bagels.  

Captain Kidd

I’ve just heard a great story about Captain Kidd.  He was a pirate hunter who was sent off in 1696 to sort out the pirates of the Indian Ocean. Half way through the long journey he decided he would make more money by becoming a pirate himself instead of hunting them. He was captain of his ship and known as a great fighter and seaman. So when his crew threatened to mutiny, what did he do? Showed them who was boss with his swashbuckling skills? Made the traitors walk the plank? No. He killed one of them by hitting him over the head with a bucket!