"golden grove" was one of seven vessels wrecked in the same storm. at the time, "golden grove" and at least five of the other vessels that were wrecked were part of admiral christian's fleet that was sailing to capture islands in the west indies. the british fleet did not leave spithead until 16 november; two days after departing, a westerly gale blew up, dispersing the fleet and driving the ships back to port. several of the merchantmen, "golden grove" among them, were wrecked with heavy loss of life; over 200 bodies were washed up on the coastline between portland and bridport.