Anthony Hamell was an officer of the Dutch Marine Corps who participated in the 1784 expedition led by Jacob Pieter van Braam. He is noted in the fleet’s journal as having distinguished himself during the suppression of the Neger‑opstand (Negro uprising) in Rio de Berbice (1763‑1761) and later in the operations against the Riouw regent Radya Hadgè.
Early Service
Hamell entered the Marine Corps in the mid‑1770s and served aboard several VOC warships. His experience in colonial conflicts, especially the suppression of slave uprisings in the Caribbean, earned him a reputation for discipline and combat effectiveness.
Role in the 1784 Expedition
During the 1784 campaign, Hamell commanded a marine detachment that provided fire support during the attempted landing on Riouw. His troops were equipped with muskets and hand‑grenades, reflecting the tactical doctrines outlined in the General Instruction for Service at Sea (13 July 1774).
Legacy
Hamell’s career exemplifies the trans‑Atlantic nature of Dutch colonial military service, linking Caribbean operations (e.g., in Berbice and Suriname) with later actions in the East Indies, including engagements that affected the Acehnese sphere of influence.
See Also
Source
De geschiedenis van het Nederlandsche Korps Mariniers van 1665‑1945, OCR edition, pp. 78‑79. 20260707_232246_DLP-55-De_geschiedenis_van_het_Nederlandsche_Korps_Mariniers_van_1665_1945_OCR.txt.