The Naval Chronicle

Sir Richard Bickerton, the Father of the Gentleman whose professional life we are about to trace, was an Officer of distinguished merit in the British Navy At a future period, we indulge the hope of being enabled to present a detailed account of his services; but, for the present, we shall content ourselves with exhibiting a brief sketch, by way of introducing the Naval Career of his Son to public notice.

Mr. Bickerton, the late Admiral, having been educated at Westminster School, entered into the Royal Navy, and received his Commission as Lieutenant in the month of February, 1745-6. In 1759 he was rated Post in the Culloden, and immediately afterwards sailed for the West Indies, in the Glasgow, of 20 guns. Having displayed much activity and gallantry in that quarter, he returned to Europe in 1761, and served for some time on the Home Station. In 1767 he again proceeded to the West Indies, in the Renown, a Fifth Rate; but quitting that Ship before the conclusion of the following year, he remained unemployed till the end of the year 1770, when, on the apprehended rupture with Spain, he was appointed to the Marlborough, of 74 guns, in which he remained for three years.

When the King reviewed the Fleet at Portsmouth, in 1773, Captain Bickerton had the honour of steering His Majesty's Barge, on which occasion he received the honour of Knighthood on board of the Barfleur.