
Decoding the Fleet: HMS Victory’s Signal Log, 1804
Thanks to surviving records, I’ve had the rare chance to read through an original signal log from HMS Victory, dated 1804—the year before Trafalgar. This log records the daily visual signals sent and received by the fleet, offering a direct window into how Admirals like Nelson commanded entire squadrons using flags alone.
Each entry reveals the rhythm of naval life: orders to anchor, sail, form line of battle, or simply report weather. It's a remarkable glimpse into a system of communication where clarity, timing, and colour could mean the difference between victory and chaos.