Hopkins, Esek

(1718-1802), of Rhode Island, was appointed commander-in-chief of the navy by the Continental Congre in 1775, In 1776, in command of the first colonial fleet, he captured the British ships ‘‘ Hawke ’’ and ‘‘Bolton.”” He was retired in 1777 for neglect to appear before the Naval Committee on a charge of unnece ary delays. He afterward was prominent in Rhode Island politics.