View source for HMS Endymion (1865)

{{short description|Frigate of the Royal Navy}}

{{Other ships|HMS Endymion}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2021}}
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{{Infobox ship image
|Ship image=HMS Endymion (1865).jpg
|Ship caption=HMS ''Endymion'' rounding the Cape of Good Hope.
}}
{{Infobox ship career
|Hide header=
|Ship country=United Kingdom
|Ship flag=[[Image:Naval Ensign of the United Kingdom.svg|60px|Royal Navy Ensign]]
|Ship name='''HMS ''Endymion'''''
|Ship ordered=
|Ship awarded=
|Ship builder=[[Deptford Dockyard]]
|Ship original cost=
|Ship yard number=
|Ship laid down=20 October 1860
|Ship launched=18 November 1865
|Ship christened=
|Ship completed=September 1866
|Ship commissioned=27 September 1866
|Ship recommissioned=
|Ship decommissioned=31 July 1879
|Ship namesake=
|Ship out of service=
|Ship renamed=
|Ship reclassified=
|Ship refit=
|Ship captured=
|Ship struck=
|Ship reinstated=
|Ship fate=Loaned out 1881, sold in 1885
|Ship homeport=
}}
{{Infobox ship career
| Hide header              =title
| Ship country             = United Kingdom
| Ship flag                = {{shipboxflag|United Kingdom|civil}}
| Ship name                = ''Endymion''
| Ship owner               = [[Metropolitan Asylums Board]]
| Ship acquired            =*5 July 1881 (loan)
*1885 (purchase)
| Ship in service          = 1881
| Ship out of service      = 1904
| Ship fate                = Scrapped 1905
}}
{{Infobox ship characteristics
|Hide header=
|Header caption=
|Ship class=*Frigate (1865–81)
*Administrative and hospital ship (1881–1904)
|Ship displacement={{convert|3197|LT|t}}
|Ship tons burthen=*2,478{{frac|30|94}} tons [[Builder's Old Measurement|BOM]] (design)
*2,486 tons BOM (as built)
|Ship length={{convert|240|ft|m|1|abbr=on}}
|Ship beam= {{convert|47|ft|11|in|m|1|abbr=on}}
|Ship draught= {{convert|18|ft|8|in|m|2|abbr=on}}
|Ship propulsion=Sails, 1 × 500 [[nominal horsepower|nhp]] [[Marine steam engine#Simple expansion|steam engine]], 1 shaft
|Ship sail plan=Full-rigged ship
|Ship speed= {{convert|12.5|kn}}
|Ship range=
|Ship complement=450
|Ship power=*{{convert|1620|ihp|abbr=on}}
*500 [[nominal horsepower]]
|Ship armament=*4 × 100-pounder guns
*3 × 110-pounder guns
*14 × 8-inch guns
|Ship notes=
}}
|}

'''HMS ''Endymion''''' was a 21-gun [[Ister-class frigate|''Ister''-class]] wooden [[screw frigate]], the third of four ships of this name to serve in the [[Royal Navy]]. She was the last wooden frigate built at [[Deptford Dockyard]]. She was commissioned in 1866 and spent much of her service based at [[Malta]]. In 1869–70 she sailed around the world as part of a Flying Squadron. She remained in front-line service until 1874.

''Endymion'' then served as a guard ship at [[Kingston upon Hull|Hull]], [[East Riding of Yorkshire|Yorkshire]] until 1879, latterly with her boilers condemned as unfit for service. A plan to use her as a [[flagship]] at [[Harwich]], [[Essex]] from 1875 was abandoned due to the loss of {{HMS|Vanguard|1870|6}}. During her time at Hull, crew from ''Endymion'' assisted the local police in fighting a number of fires in buildings and timber yards.

''Emdymion'' was lent to the [[Metropolitan Asylums Board]] in 1881 for use as an administration and [[hospital ship]], initially at [[Greenwich]], [[Kent]] and later at [[Dartford]]. She was sold out of service in 1885, and served as an administration ship until 1904. ''Endymion'' was sold in December 1904 and broken up in 1905.

==Description==
''Endymion'' was {{convert|240|ft|m|1}} long, with a beam of {{convert|47|ft|11|in|m|1}},{{sfn|Gardiner|1979|p=46}} and a draught of {{convert|18|ft|8|in|m|2}}.<ref name=HTSC230566/> She was designed with a beam of {{convert|47|ft|10|in|m|1}} and a burthen of 2,478 {{frac|30|94}} tons [[Builder's Old Measurement|BOM]] and displaced 3,197 tons.{{sfn|Winfield|Lyon|2004|p=205}}{{#tag:ref|''The Illustrated London News'' gives a figure of 2,486 tons BOM – this is the actual tons burthen as built, as she was measured as being an inch wider than her design when launched.<ref name=ILN230781/>|group=Note}} She was to be fitted with 36 guns and had a complement of 450.<ref name=Endymion>{{cite web |url=http://www.pdavis.nl/ShowShip.php?id=82 |title=Endymion |publisher=Peter Davis |access-date=21 July 2011}}</ref> Propulsion was by a [[Marine steam engine#Simple expansion|steam engine]] of 500 [[nominal horsepower]],<ref name=Times261065>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Military and Naval Intelligence |date=26 October 1865 |page=10 |issue=25326 |column=C }}</ref> which was built by [[Napier & Son]]s, [[Glasgow]].<ref name=Times291165>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval Intelligence |date=29 November 1865 |page=12 |issue=25355 |column=F }}</ref> The engine drove a single screw propeller of {{convert|18|ft|m|2}} diameter and {{convert|21|ft|m|2}} pitch. The propeller was {{convert|3|ft|6|in|m|2}} long, and the tips of the blades were {{convert|7|ft|6|in|m|2}} beneath the surface of the water.<ref name=HTSC230566/> She was also rigged as a [[full-rigged ship]].<!--WP:BLUE-->

==Construction==
''Endymion'' was the last wooden frigate built at [[Deptford Dockyard|Deptford]].<ref name=Endymion/> Her keel was laid down on 20 October 1860.{{sfn|Various British Screw Frigates|1968|p=323}} She was built on the same slip that had been vacated by the launch of {{HMS|Newcastle|1860|6}}.<ref name=Times241160>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=24 November 1860 |page=6 |issue=23786 |column=C }}</ref> On 1&nbsp;February&nbsp;1862, construction of ''Endymion'' was suspended on the orders of the [[British Admiralty|Admiralty]],<ref name=BNPSH211165>{{Cite news|title=Naval & Military Intelligence  |date=21 November 1865 |page=3 |newspaper=The Bury & Norwich Post, and Suffolk Herald |issue=4352 |location=Bury St Edmunds }}</ref> although the Admiralty later decided that she would be completed.<ref name=Standard201165>{{cite news |title=Launch of Her Majesty's Ship Vixen |newspaper=The Standard |location=London |issue=12881 |date=20 November 1865 |page=2}}</ref> Construction restarted on 7&nbsp;February&nbsp;1864.<ref name=BNPSH211165/> Her engines and boilers were transported from Deptford to [[Sheerness Dockyard|Sheerness]] in October 1865 on board HMS ''Dee'' and HMS ''Monkey''.<ref name=Times261065/> She was launched on 18 November 1865,<ref name=Endymion/> in front of a crowd of 10,000 people.<ref name=LM211165>{{Cite news |title=(untitled) |newspaper=Leeds Mercury |location=Leeds |date=21 November 1865 |issue=8614 }}</ref> She was then towed by the steamships ''Locust'', ''Monkey'' and ''Widgeon'' to [[Woolwich Dockyard|Woolwich]], where they awaited for the tide before ''Endymion'' was towed to Sheerness for completion.<ref name=MP241165>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=28690 |page=5 |location=London |date=24 November 1865}}</ref> Endymion was launched by Miss Ffrench, the daughter of Major Ffrench of the [[74th (Highland) Regiment of Foot]]. A crowd of 40,000 people was present.<ref name=BNPSH211165/>

By January 1866, ''Endymion'' was ready to have her lower masts fitted, following which her bottom was to be [[copper sheathing|coppered]].<ref name=Times310166>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval Intelligence |date=31 January 1866 |page=5 |issue=25409 |column=B }}</ref> She was designed to take 36 (later 30) guns, which were intended to comprise twenty-two 32-pounder smooth-bore and eight 64-pounder rifled muzzle-loading guns. However she was completed with four [[Somerset cannon|100-pounder]], [[muzzle-loading rifle|rifled muzzle-loading guns]] (weight 125&nbsp;[[Hundredweight|Cwt]]/6,350&nbsp;kg each), fourteen [[8-inch 65 cwt|8-inch guns]] (65&nbsp;Cwt/3,302&nbsp;kg each), located on the maindeck; and nine 110-pounder breech-loading guns (82&nbsp;Cwt/6,166&nbsp;kg each) located on the upper deck.<ref name=BNPSH211165/> In August, it was reported that ''Endymion'' was then being fitted with three [[RBL 7-inch Armstrong gun|110-pounder]] [[Armstrong Whitworth|Armstrongs]] guns, four 6½-ton/100-pounder and fourteen 8-inch guns.<ref name=Times090866>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=9 August 1866 |page=12 |issue=25572 |column=C }}</ref><ref name=Times310866>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=31 August 1866 |page=10 |issue=25591 |column=B }}</ref><ref name=Times010966>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=1 September 1866 |page=12 |issue=25592 |column=D }}</ref>

==History==

===Front-line service===
''Endymion'' was commissioned at Sheerness on 27&nbsp;September 1866, under the command of Captain Charles Wake, who had previously commanded {{HMS|Bulldog|1845|6}}.<ref name=Times280966>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=28 September 1866 |page=10 |issue=25615 |column=B }}</ref> Sea trials were undertaken on 19 and 20 October. On the latter date, speed was assessed over a measured mile at the [[Maplin Sands]].<ref name=Times221066>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=22 October 1866 |page=10 |issue=25635 |column=B }}</ref><ref name=HTSC190566>{{cite news |title=Sheerness |newspaper=Hampshire Telegraph & Sussex Chronicle |issue=3522 |location=Portsmouth |date=19 May 1866 }}</ref> On the first three runs, an average speed of {{convert|12.5|kn|km/h}} was recorded, but one of the bearings in the engine was found to be running hot. Three more runs were made, giving an average speed over the first six runs of {{convert|11.672|kn|km/h|1}}. Six more runs were made at half-power, giving an average of {{convert|9.788|kn|km/h|1}}.<ref name=HTSC230566>{{cite news |title=Sheerness |newspaper=Hampshire Telegraph & Sussex Chronicle |issue=3523 |location=Portsmouth |date=23 May 1866 }}</ref>

''Endymion'' departed from [[Spithead]] for the [[Mediterranean]] on 28&nbsp;October,<ref name=Times291066>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Military and Naval Intelligence |date=29 October 1866 |page=7 |issue=25641 |column=B }}</ref> arriving at [[Gibraltar]] on 10&nbsp;November. She sailed eastward,<ref name=HTSC211166>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military News |newspaper=Hampshire Telegraph & Sussex Chronicle |issue=3575 |location=Portsmouth |date=21 November 1866 }}</ref> arriving at [[Valletta]], [[Malta]] on 19&nbsp;November.<ref name=MP291166>{{cite news |title=Malta |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=29007 |page=5 |location=London |date=29 November 1866}}</ref> She remained at Malta until 27&nbsp;December, when she departed for [[target practice]],<ref name=Times020167>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=2 January 1867 |page=9 |issue=35967 |column=E }}</ref> returning on 29 December.<ref name=Standard070167>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |newspaper=The Standard |issue=13255 |page=6 |location=London |date=7 January 1867}}</ref>

''Endymion'' departed on 2&nbsp;January 1867 for [[Beyrout]], [[Syria]]<!--as it then was-->, taking supplies for {{HMS|Racer|1857|6}}.<ref name=Standard070167/> She had arrived at [[Alexandria]], Egypt by 20&nbsp;January.<ref name=Times040267>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Mediterranean |date=4 February 1867 |page=8 |issue=25725 |column=D }}</ref> On 25&nbsp;February, one of her carpenters was [[court-martial]]led on board {{HMS|Hibernia|1804|6}} for drunkenness. He was found guilty and dismissed from the ship, being returned to the United Kingdom on board {{HMS|Megaera|1849|6}}.<ref name=Times060467>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=6 April 1867 |page=12 |issue=25778 |column=C }}</ref> ''Endymion'' arrived off the Syrian coast on 19&nbsp;April.<ref name=Times070567>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=7 May 1867 |page=12 |issue=25804 |column=D }}</ref> She returned to Malta on 29&nbsp;July.<ref name=HA100867>{{cite news |title=Portsmouth Branch |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2293 |page=4 |location=Portsmouth |date=10 August 1867 }}</ref> On 22&nbsp;August, the Mediterranean Squadron, comprising {{HMS|Arethusa|1849|6}}, {{HMS|Caledonia|1810|6}}, {{HMS|Cruiser|1852|6}}, HMS ''Endymion'', {{HMS|Prince Consort|1862|6}} and {{HMS|Royal Oak|1862|6}} and under the command of [[Lord Clarence Paget]], departed from [[Spezia]], Italy.<ref name=MP270867>{{cite news |title=The Mediterranean Squadron |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=29329 |page=5 |location=London |date=27 August 1867 }}</ref> The squadron arrived at [[Bastia]], [[Corsica]] from [[Villafranca Tirenna]], [[Sicily]] on 9 September.<ref name=MP170967>{{cite news |title=The Mediterranean Fleet |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=29257 |page=6 |location=London |date=17 September 1867 }}</ref> On 9&nbsp;October, {{HMS|Cruiser|1852|6}} was in difficulties off [[Avenza]], Italy in a gale. ''Arethusa'' and ''Endymion'' were despatched under steam to her aid. During the rescue, one of ''Endymion{{'}}s'' guns was dislodged from its mountings and ended up in a messroom. A sailor was washed overboard, but was rescued. ''Arethusa'' towed ''Cruiser'' to Spezia.<ref name=MP141067>{{cite news |title=The Mediterranean Fleet |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=29279 |page=6 |location=London |date=14 October 1867 }}</ref> On 29&nbsp;October, she departed from Malta for [[Livorno]], Italy to collect a 16-year-old Japanese prince,<ref name=Times181167>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=18 November 1867 |page=9 |issue=25971 |column=C }}</ref> orders having been received to sail immediately after arrival at Malta, once refuelling and victualling had been performed. This was instead of undergoing repairs.<ref name=DN041167>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military: The Mediterranean |newspaper=The Daily News |issue=6709 |location=London |date=4 November 1867 }}</ref> She returned to Malta on 7 November.<ref name=PMG081167>{{cite news |title=This Evening's News |newspaper=The Pall Mall Gazette |issue=857 |location=London |date=8 November 1867 }}</ref> ''Endymion'' departed for [[Marseilles]] on 11 November with the prince on board.<ref name=Times221167>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=22 November 1867 |page=5 |issue=25975 |column=B }}</ref> During the voyage to Marseilles, her engines broke down,<ref name=Times310368/> causing damage to the engine's air pump, cylinders, pistons and trunk. She was ordered back to Malta for repairs,<ref name=HTSC271167>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military News |newspaper=Hampshire Telegraph & Sussex Chronicle |issue=3681 |location=Portsmouth |date=27 November 1867 }}</ref> arriving on 22&nbsp;November.<ref name=HTSC301167>{{cite news |title=The Mediterranean Station |newspaper=Hampshire Telegraph & Sussex Chronicle |issue=2309 |page=4 |location=Portsmouth |date=27 November 1867 }}</ref> On 27&nbsp;November, her assistant-paymaster was court-martialled on board HMS ''Hibernia'' for being [[absent without leave]]. He was found guilty, losing a year's seniority and being dismissed from the ship.<ref name=Times071267>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=7 December 1867 |page=12 |issue=25988 |column=C }}</ref>

On 30&nbsp;January 1868, ''Endymion'' was caught by a squall whilst taking up her berth in Valletta Harbour. She collided with the [[Turkish Navy|Turkish]] [[ironclad]] ''Mahmoudiah'', taking away her bowsprit and then colliding with {{HMS|Lord Warden|1865|6}}, damaging some boats and an accommodation ladder. ''Endymion'' was reported to be undamaged.<ref name=Times070268>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=7 February 1868 |page=12 |issue=26041 |column=B }}</ref> On 18&nbsp;March,<ref name=HTSC090568>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military News |newspaper=Hampshire Telegraph & Sussex Chronicle |issue=3728 |location=Portsmouth |date=9 May 1868 }}</ref> {{HMS|Arethusa|1849|2}} and ''Endymion'' departed for [[Naples]], Italy,<ref name=Times270368>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Latest Intelligence |date=27 March 1868 |page=12 |issue=26083 |column=A }}</ref> ''Endymion'' was carrying [[Rear-Admiral]] [[Henry Kellett|Kellett]], who was going on leave to recuperate.<ref name=Times240368>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=24 March 1868 |page=12 |issue=26080 |column=B }}</ref> The voyage was also to test her engines, which had taken four months to repair.<ref name=Times310368>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=31 March 1868 |page=12 |issue=25086 |column=A }}</ref> She returned to Malta on 4&nbsp;April.<ref name=Times060468>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Latest Intelligence |date=6 April 1868 |page=12 |issue=26091 |column=A }}</ref> ''Endymion'' sailed on 26&nbsp;May for Beyrout, in company with ''Lord Warden''.<ref name=Times020668>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=2 June 1868 |page=9 |issue=26140 |column=E }}</ref> She returned via [[Piraeus]], Greece, arriving on 14&nbsp;June.<ref name=Times150668>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Latest Intelligence |date=15 June 1868 |page=9 |issue=26151 |column=B }}</ref> On 17&nbsp;June, a first-class engineer from ''Endymion'' was court-martialled on board HMS ''Hibernia'' for drunkenness. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to be dismissed from Her Majesty's Service.<ref name=Times020768>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=2 July 1868 |page=12 |issue=26166 |column=B }}</ref> On 1 July, {{HMS|Caledonia|1865|6}} and ''Endymion'' departed Malta for [[Corfu]] and [[Venice]], Italy.<ref name=Times030768>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Latest Intelligence |date=3 July 1868 |page=12 |issue=26167 |column=A }}</ref> She departed from Venice on 27&nbsp;July for [[Trieste]].<ref name=Times250868>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval Intelligence |date=25 August 1868 |page=10 |issue=26212 |column=B }}</ref> She arrived at Malta on 18&nbsp;September.<ref name=Times210968>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Latest Intelligence |date=21 September 1868 |page=9 |issue=26235 |column=B }}</ref> On 26&nbsp;September, ''Endymion'' departed from Malta in company with ''Chiltern'', ''Newport'' and ''Scanderia'', which were laying a new submarine cable between Malta and Alexandria,<ref name=Times031068>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Military and Naval Intelligence |date=3 October 1868 |page=6 |issue=26246 |column=F }}</ref> which was reached on 6&nbsp;October.<ref name=MP241068>{{cite news |title=Malta |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=29602 |page=5 |location=London |date=24 October 1868 }}</ref> She then sailed to [[Brindisi]], Italy to collect [[Robert Napier, 1st Baron Napier of Magdala|Lord Napier of Magdala]],<ref name=Times051268/> arriving on 15&nbsp;November. ''Endymion'' was the first British frigate to enter Brindisi Harbour.<ref name=BDP161168>{{cite news |title=Malta |newspaper=Birmingham Daily Post |issue=3221 |location=Birmingham |date=16 November 1868 }}</ref> She sailed for Alexandria on 19&nbsp; November,<ref name=SRI201168>{{cite news |title=Lord Napier |newspaper=Sheffield & Rotherham Independent |issue=4795 |page=2 |location=Sheffield |date=20 November 1868 }}</ref> arriving on 24 November.<ref name=Times051268>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=5 December 1868 |page=5 |issue=26300 |column=D }}</ref> She then sailed to Malta, arriving on 6&nbsp;December.<ref name=Times171268>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=17 December 1868 |page=9 |issue=26310 |column=F }}</ref> She was then [[dry dock]]ed to enable her bottom to be cleaned.<ref name=Standard140169>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |newspaper=The Standard |issue=13868 |page=3 |location=London |date=14 January 1869 }}</ref>

''Endymion'' left the dry dock on 7&nbsp;January 1869.<ref name=Standard140169/> On 26&nbsp;January, a sub-lieutenant serving on board {{HMS|Defence|1861|6}} was court-martialled on board HMS ''Hibernia'' for false accounting in connection with the gun-room wine accounts whilst serving on board ''Endymion'' during 1867. He was further charged with destroying part of the issue-book relating to the wine accounts. The first charge was found to be partly proved, whilst he was found not guilty on the second charge. He was sentenced to be dismissed from Her Majesty's Service.<ref name=Times030269>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=3 February 1869 |page=9 |issue=26351 |column=E }}</ref> She sailed from Malta on 27&nbsp;January in the company of {{HMS|Wizard|1860|6}} bound for [[Gibraltar]].<ref name=MP290169>{{cite news |title=Malta |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=29685 |page=5 |location=London |date=29 January 1869 }}</ref> She was reported to be at [[Cadiz]], Spain on 11&nbsp;February,<ref name=Times230269>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=23 February 1869 |page=5 |issue=26368 |column=B }}</ref> and at Gibraltar a month later.<ref name=Times110369>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=11 March 1869 |page=5 |issue=26382 |column=F }}</ref> She departed on 22 March for [[Málaga]], Spain,<ref name=MP050469>{{cite news |title=The Bombay Mails |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=29741 |page=2 |location=London |date=5 April 1869 }}</ref> where she arrived on 3&nbsp;April.<ref name=Times100469>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The India and China Mails |date=10 April 1869 |page=12 |issue=26408 |column=F }}</ref> She then received orders to sail to England to join the Flying Squadron.<ref name=Standard030569>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |newspaper=The Standard |issue=13961 |page=6 |location=London |date=3 May 1869 }}</ref> ''Endymion'' sailed to Spithead via [[Lisbon]], Portugal, arriving on 1&nbsp;May.<ref name=Times030569>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=3 May 1869 |page=12 |issue=26427 |column=F }}</ref> On 21&nbsp;May 1869, Edward Lacy took command of ''Endymion''.<ref name=Endymion/> She sailed on 10&nbsp;June for [[Plymouth Sound]].<ref name=Times120669>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Military and Naval Intelligence |date=12 June 1869 |page=12 |issue=26462 |column=F }}</ref> ''Endymion'' was to join a Flying Squadron which was to sail around the world. The other ships were {{HMS|Bristol|1861|6}}, {{HMS|Liffey|1856|6}}, {{HMS|Liverpool|1860|6}} and {{HMS|Scylla|1856|6}}. {{HMS|Barossa|1860|6}} was to join the squadron at [[Bahia]], Brazil once her repairs had been completed.<ref name=Times210669>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=21 June 1869 |page=12 |issue=26429 |column=E }}</ref> ''Scylla'' was the fastest,<ref name=BO020969>{{cite news |title=The Flying Squadron |newspaper=The Bradford Observer |issue=2090 |page=8 |location=Bradford |date=2 September 1869 }}</ref> and ''Endymion'' was the slowest of the six ships.<ref name=Star220769>{{cite news |title=The Flying Squadron |newspaper=The Star |issue=12 |location=St Peter Port |date= 22 July 1869}}</ref> ''Barossa'' caught up with the squadron by the time [[Madeira]] was reached on 1&nbsp;July. The squadron departed for Bahia the next day.<ref name=Times130769>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=13 July 1869 |page=12 |issue=24688 |column=B }}</ref> On 9&nbsp;July, a race under sail was held between the six ships. ''Endymion'' was sixth and last, behind ''Barossa'', which was 24½ [[cable length|cables]] (4.54&nbsp;km) ahead.<ref name=DN070969>{{cite news |title=The Flying Squadron |newspaper=Daily News |issue=7286 |location=London |date=7 September 1969 }}</ref> The squadron departed from Bahia on 4&nbsp;August, minus ''Bristol'', which returned to Plymouth.<ref name=Times160969>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Military and Naval Intelligence |date=16 September 1869 |page=9 |issue=26544 |column=A }}</ref> The squadron then sailed to [[Rio de Janeiro]], Argentina, departing on 26&nbsp;July for [[Montevideo]], Uruguay, where the squadron arrived on 6 August. During the voyage from Rio de Janeiro, a fatal case of [[yellow fever]] was reported on board one of the ships.<ref name=LM161069>{{cite news |title=Yellow Fever in the Flying Squadron |newspaper=Leeds Mercury |issue=9833 |location=Leeds |date=16 October 1969 }}</ref> The squadron departed on 11&nbsp;September for [[Cape of Good Hope|The Cape]], where it arrived on 4&nbsp;October. ''Bristol'' rejoined the squadron there.<ref name=Times101169>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Cape Mail |date=10 November 1869 |page=9 |issue=26591 |column=C }}</ref> The squadron departed from [[Cape Town]] on 16&nbsp;October bound for [[Melbourne]], [[Victoria (Australia)|Victoria]].<!--Australia was not a country then--> On 9&nbsp;November, the squadron was caught in a storm and scattered, with all ships sustaining some damage to their rigging and sails.<ref name=Times310170>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Flying Squadron |date=31 January 1870 |page=5 |issue=26661 |column=F }}</ref> The squadron reached Melbourne on 26&nbsp;November, anchoring in the mouth of the [[Yarra Yarra River]] at [[Williamstown, Victoria|Williamstwon]]. The citizens of Melbourne gave the squadron an enthusiastic welcome. It sailed for [[Sydney]] on 7&nbsp;December,<ref name=Standard020270>{{cite news |title=Notes from the Flying Squadron |newspaper=The Standard |issue=14197 |page=3 |location=London |date=2 February 1870 }}</ref> arriving on 12 December. On 29&nbsp;December, the squadron sailed for [[Hobart]], [[Tasmania]].<ref name=HA260270>{{cite news |title=The Flying Squadron |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2474 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=26 February 1870 }}</ref>

On 2 January 1870, the Flying Squadron arrived at Hobart. It sailed on 10&nbsp;January for New Zealand.<ref name=HA260370>{{cite news |title=The Flying Squadron |newspaper=Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2482 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=26 March 1870 }}</ref> Arrival at [[Auckland]] was on 2 February, with the squadron departing six days later for Japan.<ref name=HA300470>{{cite news |title=The Flying Squadron |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2492 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=30 April 1870 }}</ref> On 6&nbsp;April, the squadron arrived at [[Yokohama]], departing on 14&nbsp;April for [[Yedo]] and returning to Yokohama on 17&nbsp;April and sailing again on 19&nbsp;April.<ref name=Star040670>{{cite news |title=The Flying Squadron |newspaper=The Star |issue=148 |location=St Peter Port |date=4 June 1870 }}</ref> Its destination was [[Vancouver Island]], which was reached in May, departing on 28&nbsp;May for [[Valparaiso]], Chile,<ref name=HA250670>{{cite news |title=The Flying Squadron |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2508 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=25 June 1870 }}</ref> via [[Honolulu, Hawaii]], departing from there on 22&nbsp;June. The squadron arrived at Valparaiso on 14&nbsp;August. At this point it comprised {{HMS|Charybdis|1859|2}}, ''Endymion'', ''Liffey'' ''Liverpool'' and {{HMS|Pearl|1855|2}}.<ref name=HA011070>{{cite news |title=Latest Intelligence |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2536 |page=4 |location=Southampton |date=1 October 1870 }}</ref> The squadron sailed on 28&nbsp;August, and rounded [[Cape Horn]] on 13 September.<ref name=MP161170>{{cite news |title=Return of The Flying Squadron |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=30246 |page=5 |location=London |date=16 November 1870 }}</ref> The circumnavigation was completed on 21&nbsp;September, and was celebrated by the order of "[[splice the mainbrace]]" being given. On 2 October, one of the boys serving on ''Endymion'' fell overboard. He was a non-swimmer and Sub-Lieutenant Jones dived in and came to his rescue, the boy being unharmed.<ref name=MP021170>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=30234 |page=3 |location=London |date=2 November 1870 }}</ref> The squadron arrived at Bahia on 6&nbsp;October, sailing three days later. An intended call at [[Fayal]], [[Azores]] was abandoned due to unfavourable weather conditions. The squadron arrived at [[Plymouth]] on 15&nbsp;November.<ref name=MP161170/> ''Endymion'' arrived at Spithead on 17&nbsp;November 1870.<ref name=Times181170>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=18 November 1870 |page=3 |issue=26911 |column=B }}</ref> She was then ordered to be dis-masted and paid off,<ref name=Times231170>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=23 November 1870 |page=5 |issue=26915 |column=F }}</ref> Her lower masts and rigging were retained, and she was paid off on 30&nbsp;November, with a view to a quick recommission.<ref name=Times011270>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Military and Naval Intelligence |date=1 December 1870 |page=7 |issue=26922 |column=D }}</ref>

''Endymion'' departed from [[HMNB Portsmouth|Portsmouth]] under steam on 6&nbsp;February 1871 for trials off Spithead, returning to port that day.<ref name=Times070271>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=7 February 1871 |page=3 |issue=26980 |column=C }}</ref> On 24&nbsp;April 1872, Edward Madden took command of ''Endymion'', which was then in use as a [[training ship]] for cadets.<ref name=Endymion/> On 28&nbsp;May, personnel on leave from ''Endymion'' were recalled as the ship had received orders to sail immediately.<ref name=Times280572>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=28 May 1872 |page=5 |issue=27388 |column=D }}</ref> She undertook a short cruise in the [[English Channel]], arriving back at Spithead on 3&nbsp;June.<ref name=Times040672>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=4 June 1872 |page=12 |issue=27394 |column=C }}</ref> She then sailed for Gibraltar, putting into Plymouth on 19&nbsp;June to land a sailor who had fallen from the rigging.<ref name=Times210672>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=21 June 1872 |page=12 |issue=27409 |column=D }}</ref> She was at Lisbon on 12 August,<ref name=Times170872>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Mails |date=17 August 1872 |page=7 |issue=27458 |column=E }}</ref> She departed from Gibraltar on 24&nbsp;August heading west.<ref name=Times060972>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Mails |date=6 September 1872 |page=4 |issue=27475 |column=D }}</ref> She sailed to [[Vigo]], Spain, where she joined the Mediterranean Squadron, comprising {{HMS|Aurora|1861|6}}, {{HMS|Invincible|1869|6}}, {{HMS|Lord Warden|1865|6}}, {{HMS|Pallas|1865|6}}, {{HMS|Research|1863|6}} and {{HMS|Swiftsure|1870|6}}.<ref name=Times240972>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Latest Intelligence |date=24 September 1872 |page=5 |issue=27490 |column=A }}</ref> The squadron arrived at Gibraltar on 2&nbsp;October. ''Endymion'' departed on 9&nbsp;October and headed west.<ref name=Times171072>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Mails |date=17 October 1872 |page=4 |issue=27510 |column=F }}</ref> She sailed to Plymouth, departing on 27&nbsp;October for Portsmouth,<ref name=Times291072>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=29 October 1872 |page=3 |issue=27520 |column=C }}</ref> arriving on 1&nbsp;November.<ref name=Times021172>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=2 November 1872 |page=5 |issue=27524 |column=D }}</ref> She then underwent a refit.<ref name=Times021272>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=2 December 1872 |page=5 |issue=27549 |column=F }}</ref> Replacement fore and main masts were fitted. These had come from {{HMS|Mersey|1858|6}} and were heavier than those previously installed on ''Endymion'', leading to doubts over her stability.<ref name=Times150173>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=15 January 1873 |page=5 |issue=27587 |column=D }}</ref> She was reported to be ready for active service in December 1871.<ref name=HA021271>{{cite news |title=Portsmouth Branch |newspaper=Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2657 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=2 December 1871 }}</ref>

On 11&nbsp;May 1872, ''Endymion'' was inspected at Portsmouth by Admiral Sir [[George Mundy]] [[Order of the Bath|KCB]], before departing for Portland that evening. She was described as being armed with 22 guns.<ref name=HTSC150572>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military News |newspaper=Hampshire Telegraph & Sussex Chronicle etc. |issue=4147 |location=Portsmouth |date=15 May 1872 }}</ref> She later departed for Gibraltar, arriving on 30 June.<ref name=MP090672>{{cite news |title=Ship News: Gibraltar |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=30759 |page=5 |location=London |date=30 June 1872 }}</ref> She sailed on 6 July to join the Mediterranean Squadron.<ref name=HTSC170772>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military News |newspaper=Hampshire Telegraph & Sussex Chronicle etc. |issue=4165 |location=Portsmouth |date=17 July 1872 }}</ref> On 12&nbsp;July, ''Endymion'' anchored in the [[Tagus]] at Lisbon.<ref name=BDP140872>{{cite news |title=Portugal |newspaper=Birmingham Daily Post |issue=4393 |location=Birmingham |date=14 August 1872 }}</ref> She later returned to Gibraltar, remaining behind when the squadron sailed as a [[court-martial]] was to be held on board.<ref name=HA310872/> The engineer of {{HMS|Hart|1793|6}} was sentenced to be dismissed from the ship with the loss of a year's seniority and a severe reprimand.<ref name=Times270872>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=27 August 1872 |page=3 |issue=27466 |column=E }}</ref> Following the conclusion of the court-martial, ''Endymion'' joined the squadron at [[Vigo]], Spain on 14&nbsp;August.<ref name=HA310872>{{cite news |title=Portsmouth Branch |newspaper=Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2735 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=31 August 1872 }}</ref> The squadron departed on 21 September, for a cruise around the Mediterranean, with an eventual destination of Malta.<ref name=HA280972>{{cite news |title=Portsmouth Branch |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2743 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=28 September 1872 }}</ref> It arrived off Lisbon on 24 September,<ref name=HA051072>{{cite news |title=The Mediterranean Station |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2745 |location=Southampton |date=5 October 1872 }}</ref> ''Endymion'' left the squadron at Gibraltar, sailing on 7&nbsp;October for England in company of ''Aurora''.<ref name=FJDCA091072>{{cite news |title=Naval Movements |newspaper=Freeman's Journal and Daily Commercial Advertiser |location=Dublin |date=9 October 1872 }}</ref> She towed the French [[barque]] ''Lutin'' in to Gibraltar that day. The barque had been in collision with the [[Kingdom of Italy|Italian]] steamship ''La Pampa'' off [[Europa Point]] and had become waterlogged.<ref name=Times171072/> ''Endymion'' was carrying Sir [[John Hay Drummond Hay|J Drummond Hay]], and took him to [[Tangier]], Morocco, leaving immediately after he had disembarked. She called at Lisbon, arriving on 15&nbsp;October and departing the next day.<ref name=HA301072>{{cite news |title=Portsmouth Branch |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2752 |page=4 |location=Southampton |date=30 October 1872 }}</ref> She arrived at Portsmouth on 31&nbsp;October.<ref name=Standard011172>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |newspaper=The Standard |issue=15057 |page=6 |location=London |date=1 November 1872 }}</ref> ''Endymion'' then underwent a refit.<ref name=HA041272>{{cite news |title=Portsmouth Branch |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2762 |page=4 |location=Southampton |date=4 December 1872 }}</ref> New masts were fitted, which were brought to Portsmouth on board {{HMS|Valorous|1851|6}}.<ref name=HTSC201172>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military News |newspaper=Hampshire Telegraph & Sussex Chronicle etc |issue=4201 |location=Portsmouth |date=20 November 1872 }}</ref> On 5&nbsp;November, a court-martial was held at Portsmouth on board ''Duke of Wellington'' of a boy who was accused of the theft of [[£sd|£8 7s 6d]] belonging to No.7 mess and its caterer. He was found guilty and sentenced to three months' imprisonment at [[Lewes (HM Prison)|Lewes Gaol]].<ref name=HA091172>{{cite news |title=Portsmouth Branch |newspaper=The Hampshire advertiser |issue=2755 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=9 November 1872 }}</ref>

On 11&nbsp;January 1873, a court-martial was held at Portsmouth on board {{HMS|Duke of Wellington|1852|6}} of an able seaman from ''Endymion'' who was charged with desertion and attempting to obtain money by fraudulent means. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two years' imprisonment at [[Winchester (HM Prison)|Winchester Gaol]]. The first seven days in each month to be kept in solitary confinement and the rest of the time to be kept at hard labour. At the termination of his imprisonment he was to be dismissed with disgrace.<ref name=Standard130173>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |newspaper=The Standard |issue=15119 |page=6 |location=London |date=13 January 1873 }}</ref> On 19&nbsp;January, ''Endymion'' was undergoing trials in the Channel when she was caught in a storm. A rating was lost overboard and she lost her jib-boom and two boats. Her new foremast was damaged.<ref name=Times210173>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=21 January 1873 |page=5 |issue=27592 |column=C }}</ref> Following repairs at Portsmouth, she sailed on 22&nbsp;January for Vigo,<ref name=MP220173>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=31376 |page=5 |location=London |date=22 January 1873 }}</ref> her arrival being reported in ''[[The Times]]'' of 4&nbsp;February.<ref name=Times040273>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=4 February 1873 |page=5 |issue=27607 |column=B }}</ref> ''Endymion'' departed from Vigo on 6 February in company of {{HMS|Aurora|1861|6}}, {{HMS|Doris|1857|6}} and {{HMS|Topaze|1858|6}}.<ref name=Times070273>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Lyons Municipality |date=7 February 1873 |page=12 |issue=27607 |column=A }}</ref> She was bound for [[Barbados]].<ref name=HA250173>{{cite news |title=Portsmouth Branch |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2777 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=25 January 1873 }}</ref> Vigo was reached in early February,<ref name=HDC030273>{{cite news |title=The Channel Squadron |newspaper=Huddersfield Daily Chronicle |issue=1714 |page=3 |location=Huddersfield |date=3 February 1873 }}</ref> with the squadron sailing on 6&nbsp;February.<ref name=HA120273>{{cite news |title=Portsmouth Branch |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2782 |page=3 |location=Southampton |date=12 February 1873 }}</ref> ''Endymion'' sailed to [[Martinique]] whilst the rest of the squadron sailed to [[Saint Vincent and the Grenadines|Saint Vincent]]. The squadron regrouped at [[Guadeloupe]] on 3&nbsp;April and then sailed to Martinique, arriving at [[Saint Pierre Island|Saint Pierre]] on 5&nbsp;April.<ref name=HA030573>{{cite news |title=Portsmouth Branch |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2805 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=3 May 1873 }}</ref> The squadron then sailed to [[Port Royal]], Jamaica, arriving on 14&nbsp;May.<ref name=MP130673>{{cite news |title=The West Indies |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=31498 |page=5 |location=London |date=13 June 1873 }}</ref> The squadron then sailed to Gibraltar, where they had arrived by the end of August.<ref name=Times290879>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Intransigentes in Spain |date=29 August 1873 |page=3 |issue=27781 |column=A }}</ref> On 18&nbsp;September, Henry Hickley took command of ''Endymion''.<ref name=Endymion/> In September, ''Endymion'' was one of several ships ordered to lay off [[Valencia]], Spain where there was an [[Cantonal Revolution|insurgency]]. Ironclads owned by the [[Region of Murcia|Canton of Murcia]] were crewed by convicts. Questions were asked about whether or not this deprived them of any protection under the laws of war.<ref name=Times250973>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Raid on Alicante |date=25 September 1873 |page=5 |issue=27804 |column=A }}</ref> She was lying off [[Barcelona]] by the end of October, departing on 27&nbsp;October,<ref name=Times301073>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Siege of Cartagena |date=30 October 1873 |page=3 |issue=27834 |column=A-B }}</ref> and arriving at Valencia on 5&nbsp;November.<ref name=Times101173>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Madrid Government |date=10 November 1873 |page=5 |issue=27843 |column=B }}</ref> ''Endymion'' arrived at Gibraltar on 2 December.<ref name=MP081273>{{cite news |title=Ship News |newspaper=The Morning Advertiser |issue=31650 |page=3 |location=London |date=8 December 1873 }}</ref> She departed on 13 December for [[Málaga]], Spain, where she was to relieve ''Doris''.<ref name=HA271273>{{cite news |title=The Mediterranean Station |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2873 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=27 December 1873 }}</ref>

''Endymion'' departed on 5&nbsp;January 1874 for Malta,<ref name=Times190174>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Mails |date=19 January 1874 |page=5 |issue=27903 |column=E }}</ref> calling at [[Portmán]], Spain on 12&nbsp;January.<ref name=MP190174>{{cite news |title=Ship News |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=31686 |page=8 |location=London |date=19 January 1874 }}</ref> ''Endymion'' arrived at Malta on 15 February.<ref name=MP300174>{{cite news |title=Malta |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=31696 |page=5 |location=London |date=30 January 1874 }}</ref> She departed from Malta on 8&nbsp;March for Corfu, as part of the Mediterranean Squadron. The other ships were {{HMS|Doris|1857|6}}, {{HMS|Immortalité|1859|6}}, {{HMS|Narcissus|1859|6}} and {{HMS|Topaze|1858|6}}.<ref name=Times180374>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=18 March 1874 |page=5 |issue=27953 |column=F }}</ref> On 10&nbsp;May, ''Endymion'' and ''Narcissus'' both ran aground in Palermo Bay,<ref name=HDC130774>{{cite news |title=The Court-Martial on Admiral Randolph |newspaper=Huddersfield Daily Chronicle |issue=2162 |page=3 |location=Huddersfield |date=13 July 1874 }}</ref> with ''Narcissus'' losing {{convert|27|ft|m}} of her false keel and being holed in two places. Both ships put into [[Cagliari]], [[Sardinia]].<ref name=HA270574>{{cite news |title=Accident to the Flying Squadron |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2916 |page=4 |location=Southampton |date=27 May 1874 }}</ref> Rear-Admiral [[George Granvill Randolph|Randolph]], in charge of the squadron, was court-martialled on board {{HMS|Royal Adelaide|1828|6}} at Devonport. He was unanimously acquitted.<ref name=HDC130774/> The squadron arrived at [[Mahón|Port Mahon]], Spain on 1&nbsp;June. ''Doris'' was ordered to leave the squadron and proceed to Gibraltar under steam.<ref name=Times090674>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Mails |date=9 June 1874 |page=11 |issue=28024 |column=F }}</ref> ''Endymion'' was ordered to proceed to [[HMNB Devonport|Devonport]],<ref name=HA270674>{{cite news |title=Portsmouth Branch |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2925 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=27 June 1874 }}</ref> She departed on 13 June, arriving at Plymouth on 4&nbsp;July.<ref name=BNPSH070774>{{cite news |title=Arrival of the Flying Squadron |newspaper=Bury and Norwich Post, and Suffolk Herald |issue=4802 |page=2 |location=Bury St Edmunds |date=7 July 1874 }}</ref> After a spell on guard off the [[Isle of Wight]], where [[Victoria of the United Kingdom|Queen Victoria]] was staying at [[Osborne House]],<ref name=AJ150774>{{cite news |title=Latest News |newspaper=Aberdeen Journal |issue=6601 |location=Aberdeen |date=15 July 1874 }}</ref> she arrived at the [[River Medway|Medway]] on 23&nbsp;July for paying off.<ref name=Times240774>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=24 July 1874 |page=5 |issue=28063 |column=E }}</ref> ''Endymion'' left Cowes on 21 July, and was replaced by an [[ironclad]]. She sailed to Portsmouth for paying off.<ref name=IWO250774>{{cite news |title=Cowes |newspaper=[[Isle of Wight Observer]] |issue=1132 |page=6 |location=Ryde |date=25 July 1874 }}</ref> On 27&nbsp;July, an able seaman from ''Endymion'' was court-martialled on board {{HMS|Duncan|1859|6}} at [[The Nore]]. He was charged with being in contempt of an officer and conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline. He was found guilty and sentenced to one year's hard labour and to be dismissed from the Navy.<ref name=HA010874>{{cite news |title=Portsmouth Branch |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=2935 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=1 August 1874 }}</ref>''Endymion'' was sent to the [[River Humber|Humber]] for coast guard duties.<ref name=Endymion/>

===Guard ship===
''Endymion'' was at [[Kingston upon Hull|Hull]], [[East Riding of Yorkshire|Yorkshire]] by October.<ref name=HPERT161074>{{cite news |title=Local Intelligence |newspaper=Hull Packet and East Riding Times |issue=4680 |location=Hull |date=16 October 1874 }}</ref>  ''Endymion'' sailed from Hull in July for Plymouth.<ref name=HA100775>{{cite news |title=Portsmouth Branch |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=3033 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=10 July 1875 }}</ref> {{HMS|Iron Duke|1870|6}} replaced her on guard ship duties.<ref name=HPERT230775>{{cite news |title=Local Intelligence |newspaper=Hull Packet and East Riding Times |issue=4691 |location=Hull |date=23 July 1875 }}</ref> Both ships sailed in company from Devonport on 30 July for [[Isle of Portland|Portland]].<ref name=HA310775>{{cite news |title=Devonport, Thursday, July 29th 1875 |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=3039 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=30 July 1975 }}</ref>

On 17&nbsp;January 1875, a court-martial was held on board ''Duke of Wellington'' as Portsmouth of a leading seaman from ''Endymion'' who was charged with indecent assault and inducing another to commit the same offence; he was found guilty on the second charge. He was sentenced to five years imprisonment as a close prisoner.<ref name=HTSC200175>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |newspaper=Hampshire Telegraph and Sussex Chronicle etc |issue=4436 |location=Portsmouth |date=20 January 1875 }}</ref> On 1&nbsp;April, a court-martial was held on board ''Duncan'' at The Nore of a [[Royal Marines|marine]] serving in ''Endymion'' who was accused of assaulting a corporal in the execution of his duties. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two years' hard labour and dismissal from the service.<ref name=Standard020475>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |newspaper=The Standard |issue=15813 |page=5 |location=London |date=2 April 1875 }}</ref>''Endymion'' returned to [[HMNB Chatham|Chatham]] in August for her annual refit.<ref name=Times210875>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=21 August 1874 |page=5 |issue=28400 |column=F }}</ref> Her crew transferred to {{HMS|Iron Duke|1870|6}}.<ref name=MP270975/> In September, she was towed from Sheerness to Devonport by the Admiralty tugs ''Camel'' and ''Grinder'',<ref name=MP080975>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=32197 |page=6 |location=Southampton |date=8 September 1875 }}</ref> her boilers having been condemned as unfit for service.<ref name=MP270975/> It was intended that ''Endymion'' would be stationed at [[Harwich]], Essex where she was to replace {{HMS|Penelope|1867|6}} as the [[flagship]] of the Admiral Superintendent of the Naval Reserve. That plan was cancelled due to the loss of {{HMS|Vanguard|1870|6}},<ref name=ESWSGECA170975>{{cite news |title=Harwich |newspaper=The Essex Standard, West Suffolk Gazette, and Eastern Counties' Advertiser |issue=2336 |location=Romford |date=17 September 1875 }}</ref> with that ship's crew transferring to ''Iron Duke'', with her crew transferring back to ''Endymion''.<ref name=MP270975>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=32213 |page=8 |location=London |date=27 September 1875 }}</ref> ''Endymion'' departed from Devonport on 4&nbsp;November for Hull, where she was to take up coast guard duties. As her boilers had not been repaired, she departed under sail.<ref name=HA061175>{{cite news |title=Devonport, Thursday, 4th November 1875 |newspaper=Hampshire Advertiser |issue=3067 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=6 November 1875 }}</ref> On 13&nbsp;December, a court-martial was held on board ''Duke of Wellington'' at [[HMNB Portsmouth|Portsmouth]] of an able seaman from ''Endymion'' charged with three counts of insubordination and disobedience. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to three years' imprisonment at Lewes Gaol. The first seven days in each month to be kept in solitary confinement and the rest of the time to be kept at hard labour.<ref name=HA181275>{{cite news |title=Court-Martial at Portsmouth |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=3079 |page=8 |location=Southampton |date=18 December 1875 }}</ref>

On 23&nbsp;February 1876, a private in the [[Royal Marines]] serving on board ''Endymion'' was court-martialled on a charge of insubordination; he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two years' imprisonment.<ref name=MP240276>{{cite news |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=32342 |page=3 |location=London |date=24 February 1876 }}</ref><ref name=HA010376>{{cite news |title=Court-Martial at Portsmouth |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=3100 |page=4 |location=Southampton |date=1 March 1876 }}</ref> On 7&nbsp;March, a fire broke out in the yard of Humphrys & Pearson Ltd, shipbuilders, located in the Victoria Dock. A range of workshops was destroyed, and the ship ''Sylph'', then under construction, was severely damaged. Her rigging and port side were burnt. Royal Marines from ''Endymion'' and {{HMS|Pheasant|1857|6}} assisted in the firefighting operations.<ref name=YH090376>{{cite news |title=The Great Fire at Hull |newspaper=The York Herald |issue=5954 |page=6 |location=York |date=9 March 1876 }}</ref> On Ascension Day, a salute was fired by ''Endymion'' in honour of the Queen. This caused two windows to fall out of a building in Scale Lane, Hull, injuring two passers-by.<ref name=HPERT230676>{{cite news |title=Local Intelligence |newspaper=The Hull Packet and East Riding Times |issue=4739 |location=Hull |date=23 June 1872 }}</ref> On 14 August, a fire broke out at a timber yard in Hull. Crewmen from {{HMS|Dauntless|1847|2}}, ''Endymion'' and {{HMS|Mermaid|1853|2}} assisted the Hull police in fighting the fire.<ref name=NC180876>{{cite news |title=Destructive Fire at Hull |newspaper=Newcastle Courant |issue=10521 |location=Newcastle upon Tyne |date=18 August 1876 }}</ref> Nine days later, crewmen from ''Endymion'' gave assistance at another fire at a timber yard in [[Drypool]].<ref name=YH260876>{{cite news |title=Another Great Fire at Hull |newspaper=The York Herald |issue=6100 |page=2 |location=York |date=26 August 1876 }}</ref> [[John Moresby]] took command of ''Endymion'' on 29&nbsp;September 1876.<ref name=Endymion/>

In&nbsp;1877, she remained stationed on the Humber; {{HMS|Pheasant|1857|6}} was her [[ship's tender|tender]] until ''Pheasant'' was sent to Sheerness in June for paying off and decommissioning,<ref name=HA200677>{{cite news |title=Portsmouth Branch |newspaper=The Hampshire Advertiser |issue=3236 |page=4 |location=Southampton |date=20 June 1877 }}</ref> being replaced by {{HMS|Ariel|1873|6}}.<ref name=Times271177>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=27 November 1877 |page=10 |issue=29110 |column=C }}</ref> On 9 September, a fire developed in a fish merchant's shop in Church Lane, Hull. Men from ''Endymion'' assisted in fighting the fire. Shortly after the fire had been extinguished, [[Holy Trinity Church, Hull|Holy Trinity Church]] was discovered to be on fire. It was suspected that sparks from the fire at the fish merchant's shop had caused this fire, which was extinguished without doing any major damage.<ref name=YH100977>{{cite news |title=Serious Fire at Hull. Holy Trinity Church on Fire |newspaper=York Herald |issue=6423 |page=5 |location=York |date=10 September 1877 }}</ref>

On 6&nbsp;March 1878, Henry Woollcombe took command of ''Endymion''.<ref name=Endymion/> This was due to the death of Rear-Admiral [[William Charles Chamberlain]], Superintendent at Devonport. Captain Leveson Somerset, in command at [[Bermuda]] was promoted to the vacated position. Moresby was promoted to the Bermuda position and Woollcombe was promoted to replace him as captain of ''Endymion''.<ref name=PMG010378>{{cite news |title=Naval Preparations at Chatham |newspaper=The Pall Mall Gazette |issue=4065 |location=London |date=1 March 1878 }}</ref> On 12 April, a fire developed in shops at the Market Place, Hull. Forty marines from ''Endymion'' assisted the Hull Police in fighting the fire. They brought a hand pump but was unable to use it owing to incompatibility of the hose and hydrant, being different sizes.<ref name=HPERT190478>{{cite news |title=Disastrous Fire in Hull |newspaper=Hull Packet and East Riding Times |issue=4835 |location=Hull |date=19 April 1878 }}</ref> On 22&nbsp;August, a private in the Royal Marines was court-martialled at Portsmouth for desertion from ''Endymion''. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to six months imprisonment and dismissal from service.<ref name=Times230878>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=23 August 1878 |page=11 |issue=29341 |column=E }}</ref>

In March&nbsp;1879, a [[butcher]] in [[Kingston upon Hull|Hull]] launched a lawsuit to recover [[Pound Sterling|£47]] in respect of meat supplied to the officers of the wardroom mess. A mess-man by the name of Jones had collected monies from various crew, but not paid the butcher. The jury found in favour of the plaintiff, even though notices had been placed in the local press stating that Jones was not authorised to pledge the credit of the officers on board ''Endymion''. A notice which the plaintiff claimed not to have seen.<ref name=Times110379>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The High Court of Justice, 10 March |date=11 March 1879 |page=4 |issue=29512 |column=B }}</ref> In July, a lieutenant was found guilty of drunkenness.<ref name=Times160779>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval Intelligence |date=16 July 1879 |page=10 |issue=29621 |column=B }}</ref> ''Endymion'' departed from Hull under tow on 6 July.<ref name=HPERT110779>{{cite news |title=Local Intelligence |newspaper=Hull Packet and East Riding Times |issue=4899 |location=Hull |date=11 July 1879 }}</ref> She arrived at Chatham on 10 July 1879 to be replaced on the Humber by {{HMS|Audacious|1869|6}}, with her crew transferring to that ship,<ref name=Times140779/> including Captain Woollacombe.<ref name=Times020879>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=2 August 1879 |page=5 |issue=29636 |column=E }}</ref> ''Endymion'' was placed in the fourth division of the Medway Steam Reserve.<ref name=Times140779>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=14 July 1879 |page=8 |issue=29619 |column=E }}</ref> ''Endymion'' was decommissioned on 31&nbsp;July.<ref name=Endymion/>

===Administration and hospital ship===
[[File:Atlas & Endymion.jpg|thumb|{{HMS|Atlas|1860|2}} and ''Endymion'' in [[Deptford Creek]], [[Kent]], 1881.]]
In June 1881, the Lords of the [[British Admiralty|Admiralty]] agreed to lend {{HMS|Atlas|1860|6}} and ''Endymion'' to the [[Metropolitan Asylums Board]] along with a steam [[pinnace (ship's boat)|pinnace]], due to an epidemic of [[smallpox]] in London. ''Endymion'' was to serve as an administration ship.<ref name=Times130681>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Smallpox Epidemic in London |date=13 June 1881 |page=8 |issue=30219 |column=E}}</ref> She was towed out of Chatham on 25 June and towed to [[Greenwich]], [[Kent]]<!--Greenwich was in Kent until 1888--> on 29 June. She was to be used as a [[hospital ship]] for patients infected with [[smallpox]],<ref name=Times290680>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Naval and Military Intelligence |date=29 June 1880 |page=8 |issue=30321 |column=E }}</ref> although ''Endymion'' was supposed to be an administrative ship.<ref name=Times130681/> ''Atlas'' was acquired by the board on 4 June, and ''Endymion'' on 5 July.<ref name=MP110781>{{cite news |title=The Small Pox Epidemic |newspaper=The Morning Post |issue=34023 |page=4 |location=London |date=11 July 1881 }}</ref> The plans for the conversion of ''Atlas''  and ''Endymion'' were drawn up by Messrs A & C Hartson, the [[architect]]s to the board. A gangway connected the two ships.<ref name=ILN230781>{{cite journal |title=The Smallpox Hospital Ships |journal=Illustrated London News |issue= 2201 |date=23 July 1881 |page=74}}</ref> Conversion of ''Atlas'' and ''Endymion'' cost £11,000. ''Endymion'' provided accommodation for the staff serving on the ships, as well as kitchen and laundry facilities. She also provided heating for the ships,<ref name=Lost>{{cite web |url=http://www.ezitis.myzen.co.uk/briefhistoryhospships.html |title=SMALLPOX HOSPITAL SHIPS |publisher=Lost Hospitals of London |access-date=2 August 2011}}</ref> as well as laundry and the repair of the patient's clothes being done on board.<ref name=Pox2>{{cite web |url=http://www.portcities.org.uk/london/server/show/ConNarrative.68/chapterId/1658/Containing-smallpox-in-Victorian-London.html |title=Containing smallpox in Victorian London: Patients and staff |publisher=Port Cities London |access-date=1 August 2011}}</ref>

The location of the ships drew an objection from the shipbuilders Messrs Rennie because some of their employees refused to work near the riverside where ''Atlas'' was moored. It was also necessary to move ''Atlas'' and ''Endymion'' every time Rennie's launched a ship.<ref name=Times250781>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Smallpox Epidemic in London |date=25 July 1881 |page=11 |issue=30255 |column=F}}</ref> In 1882, the Thames Conservancy wrote to the Metropolitan Asylums Board urging them to move ''Atlas'' and ''Endymion'' from Greenwich. The Thames Conservancy also called upon the board to pay a large claim for expenses incurred by Messrs Rennie's. At a meeting of the board, it was suggested that if moved, ''Atlas'' should be used for convalescent patients. The board decided to await the report from a Royal Commission into infectious diseases hospitals before deciding whether or not to move the ships.<ref name=Times200382>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Metropolitan Asylums Board |date=20 March 1882 |page=11 |issue=30459 |column=G}}</ref> The last smallpox patients left ''Atlas'' in August 1882. The Metropolitan Asylums Board decided that the ships provided a useful facility and that they would be kept;<ref name=Pox1>{{cite web |url=http://www.portcities.org.uk/london/server.php?show=ConNarrative.68&chapterId=1651 |title=Containing smallpox in Victorian London:The smallpox ships |publisher=Portcities London |access-date=1 August 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121002143020/http://www.portcities.org.uk/london/server.php?show=ConNarrative.68&chapterId=1651 |archive-date=2 October 2012  }}</ref> in 1883, they were moved downstream to [[Long Reach, Kent|Long Reach]], near [[Dartford]].

[[File:Endymion Galley.jpg|left|thumb|The galley on board ''Endymion'']]

In 1884, ''Atlas'' and ''Endymion''  were joined by a third hospital ship, the former [[English Channel|cross-Channel]] [[paddle steamer]] {{PS|Castalia||2}}.<ref name=Pox1/><ref name=Hansard>{{cite hansard |jurisdiction=United Kingdom |title=Public Health: Small Pox Epidemic | url=https://api.parliament.uk/historic-hansard/commons/1884/jul/01/resolution#S3V0289P0_18840701_HOC_80 | house=House of Commons | date=1 July 1884 |speaker=[[Sir Charles Cameron, 1st Baronet|Dr. Cameron]] |position=MP for [[Glasgow (UK Parliament constituency)|Glasgow]] }}</ref> In February 1885, a meeting of the Metropolitan Asylums Board was informed that the Admiralty had stated that it the board wished to continue using ''Atlas'' and ''Endymion'', they would have to purchase them at a cost of £8,400 and £6,500 respectively. The board replied that they would purchase the ships, but asked for the cost to be reduced.<ref name=Times030285>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Metropolitan Asylums Board |date=3 February 1882 |page=6 |issue=31360 |column=B}}</ref> In June, it was reported that the board were authorised to purchase both ships.<ref name=Times220685>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=The Metropolitan Asylums Board |date=22 June 1885 |page=10 |issue=31479 |column=F}}</ref> On 2 January 1902, a fire broke out on board ''Endymion''. The Metropolitan Fire Brigade and the [[fireboat]] ''Alpha'' attended.<ref name=Times030102>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Fire in a Smallpox Hospital Ship |date=3 January 1903 |page=8 |issue=36655 |column=C }}</ref> ''Endymion'' served in this rôle until 1904, when the new [[Joyce Green Hospital]] opened at [[Dartford]], Kent.<ref name=Times110104>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Metropolitan Asylums Board |date=11 January 1904 |page=11 |issue=32787 |column=E}}</ref> ''Endymion'' was sold by [[auction]] at the Bull Hotel, [[Dartford]], Kent,<ref name=Workhouse/> in December 1904 for breaking.<ref name=Times110104/><ref name=Times131204/> ''Endymion'' sold for £3,200.<ref name=Lost/> Along with ''Atlas'' and ''Castalia'', a total of £8,045 was realised.<ref name=Times131204>{{Cite newspaper The Times |title=Metropolitan Asylums Board |page=4 |issue=37576 |column=C }}</ref> The ships were to be removed within two months or a rental of £25 per week would then be payable.<ref name=Workhouse>{{cite web |url=http://www.workhouses.org.uk/MAB-HospitalShips/ |title=The MAB Hospital Ships, Long Reach, Dartford |publisher=Workhouses |access-date=2 August 2011}}</ref>

==Notes==
{{reflist|group=Note}}

==Footnotes==
{{Reflist|20em}}

==References==
*{{cite book|title=Conway's All the World's Fighting Ships 1860-1905|last=Gardiner|first=Robert|publisher=Conway Maritime Press|location=Greenwich|year=1979|isbn=0-8317-0302-4|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/conwaysallworlds0000unse_l2e2}}
*{{cite magazine|year=1968|title=Various British Screw Frigates|magazine=Warship International|publisher=Naval Records Club|location=Toledo, OH|volume=V|issue=4|page=323 |ref={{sfnref|Various British Screw Frigates|1968}} }}
*{{cite book|title=[[The Sail and Steam Navy List|The Sail and Steam Navy List: All the Ships of the Royal Navy 1815–1889]] |last1=Winfield |first1=Rif |last2=Lyon |first2=David| publisher=Chatham Publishing |location=Barnsley |year=2004|isbn=978-1-86176-032-6 |oclc=52620555 }}

{{1868 shipwrecks}}
{{1874 shipwrecks}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Endymion (1865)}}
[[Category:1865 ships]]
[[Category:Ships built in Deptford]]
[[Category:Frigates of the Royal Navy]]
[[Category:Victorian-era frigates of the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Maritime incidents in January 1868]]
[[Category:Maritime incidents in May 1874]]
[[Category:Hospital ships of the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Merchant ships of the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Hospitals in Kent]]