Sir Joshua Rowley | |
|---|---|
 Sir Joshua Rowley, Vice-Admiral of the White, c. 1787–1788 | |
| Born | 1 May 1734 Tendring Hall, Stoke-by-Nayland, Suffolk |
| Died | 26 February 1790 (aged 56) Tendring Hall, Stoke-by-Nayland, Suffolk |
| Allegiance |  Great Britain |
| Service |  Royal Navy |
| Years of service | 1744–1783 |
| Rank | Vice-Admiral |
| Commands | HMS Rye HMS Ambuscade HMS Hampshire HMS Montagu HMS Superb HMS Monarch HMS Suffolk HMS Conqueror Jamaica Station |
| Battles / wars | |
Vice-Admiral Sir Joshua Rowley, 1st Baronet (1734 – 1790) was a Royal Navy officer who was the fourth son of Admiral Sir William Rowley. Sir Joshua was from an ancient English family, originating in Staffordshire (England) and was born on 1 May 1734. Rowley served with distinction in a number of battles throughout his career and was highly praised by his contemporaries. Unfortunately whilst his career was often active he did not have the opportunity to command any significant engagements and always followed rather than led. His achievements have therefore been eclipsed by his contemporaries such as Keppel, Hawke, Howe and Rodney. Rowley however remains one of the stalwart commanders of the wooden walls that kept Britain safe for so long.