About

Captain John Sinclair was a naval hero of the American Revolutionary War. During the war, he was a successful privateer and blockade runner, activities that brought much needed supplies for the American cause. In peace time he returned to his career as a merchant seaman, farmer and family man. He enjoyed the respect, esteem and love of the people in his hometown of Smithfield, Virginia. In 1794 he found himself in the courthouse in Williamsburg, Virginia, being tried for piracy.

Alleged Pirate author Thomas T. Wiatt is the 4x grandson of Captain John Sinclair. Tom Wiatt's family have deep roots in eastern Virginia and he now lives in Newport News.

Presented by the Isle of Wight County Historical Society.