Can you help to identify Harry?

This research has been quite a challenge so far as access to primary source material is difficult. Efforts so far have demonstrated very clearly how vital it is to first find extant Royal Navy "volunteer" lists from 1790, which will give details about recruitment during the so-called "Spanish Armament" (a period from approximately May to November 1790). From the Pandora's pay book (The National Archives (TNA): Public Record Office (PRO) ADM 35/1360), it has become apparent that many of the crew were pressed or had volunteered. Unfortunately, however, such lists do not appear to be extant.

It will be useful to research the muster lists of the various vessels in which the Pandora's crew served or were held as pressed men, along with the musters of the vessels they were recruited by (before being assigned to the Pandora between August and November 1790). These vessels include "holding ships" such as HMS Sandwich and HMS Royal William, and those engaged on the "impress service", such as HMS Richard, HMS Champion, HMS Flirt and HMS David.

It has also become apparent that assistance is required from local (family) historians and genealogists within the UK, to check sources more readily available and accessible at a local or regional level. Local historians should also be enlisted to check relevant small local or regional newspapers. These may contain notices or obituaries on the Pandora crew who died during the voyage.

If you think you may be able to help unravel the Harry mystery, we'd welcome your input.