Battle of Buchan Ness

BATTLE OF BUCHAN NESS: Epitaph for an Exceptional Ship exhibit tells the story of the original Kalmar Nyckel’s last battle when she was sunk off the coast of Scotland. The exhibit focus is a newly commissioned oil painting by renowned marine artist Patrick O’Brien. It is based on new research by KNF's Senior Historian and Director of Education, Sam Heed.

Why the Battle of Buchan Ness?           

The Kalmar Nyckel Foundation’s new permanent exhibit tells the story of the original Kalmar Nyckel’s final chapter and her demise fighting in a battle for the Dutch (after a long and legendary career with the Swedes). She was sunk off the coast of Scotland on July 22, 1652, in the Battle of Buchan Ness, protecting the valuable Dutch herring fleet from the English. It was considered the opening engagement of what would be called the First Anglo-Dutch War.

While this final voyage for the Dutch is the best documented event of the ship’s exceptional career, there were no visual depictions of the battle. KNF commissioned award-winning marine artist Patrick O’Brien to depict the Battle of Buchan Ness – the last battle of the original Kalmar Nyckel – in an oil painting that is part of our new permanent exhibit at the Tatiana and Gerret Copeland Maritime Center. 

We are grateful to long-time KNF supporter, entrepreneur, and author Arkadi Kuhlmann for underwriting this major project. 

Location: Kalmar Nyckel Foundation, 1124 East 7th Street, Wilmington, DE 1980

Questions?  Please call 302.429.7447