HMS Birkenhead

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The HMS Birkenhead was a frigate of the Royal Navy which was originally designed as a steam frigate before being converted into a troopship in the mid 19th century.

History

In 1851, the HMS Birkenhead was used by the British Empire to transport troops of the 2nd Regiment of Foot 74th Regiment of Foot to Cape Colony in Africa to participate in the Eighth Xhosa War. Aboard the ship was the British Assassin Henri Escoffier and the British soldier Simeon Price.

While sailing past Cape Town, the ship was grounded by a large rock and started to sink. Henri convinced Simeon to abandon the ship and save his own life, telling him to seek out the Brotherhood in Vienna where he would find a similar cause in helping others. Afterwards, Price had stayed onboard to rescue more soldiers until Lieutenant Grimes ordered to hold quarters. Despite heavy causalities, the remaining men, including Price, followed orders as the ship sank.

Behind the scenes

Historically, HMS Birkenhead became shipwrecked in 1852, a year later.

Appearances

• Assassin's Creed: The Engine of History – The Magus Conspiracy