Of the THEMISTOCLES is not much known, most probably a merchant ship fitted out as a warship at the expense of the owners. It is given that she at that time was the finest ship in the Greek Navy
She was owned by the Brothers Tombazia and was one of the fleet of the Island of Hydra. Commanded by the owner of a close relation.
03 May 1822 the fleets of Hydra, Spetsae and Pzaza sailed out looking for the enemy.
This fleet with the use of fire-hips, reduced the Turkish Fleet, while the Turkish fleet later was destroyed by the combined Russian, French and British fleet in the Bay of Naverin during the Battle of Naverin.
When the THEMISTOCLES was in the vicinity of Cape Baba she sighted an enemy ship near a cliff, eager for the prize she pursued them, when the THEMISTOCLES suddenly was becalmed and they came under fire of the fort of the town. The current drove the ship within sixty yards of the high rocky cliff were Turkish soldiers were posted, and the deck was raked with light fire.
The THEMISTOCLES came very near to total destruction but when a light breeze sprang up, the ship was able to move out of her awkward position.
What has happened afterwards with the vessel is not know.
Greece 1969, sg1114 scott955 (the paddle steamer in the background is the KARTERIA.)
Source: Watercraft Philately and various web-sites.