William Frederick Fead

William Frederick Fead (1809–1853) was a commander in the Royal Navy who played a key role in the Prometheus Incident, which caused a major strain on US-British relations concerning Central America, principally the area of the future Panama Canal.

Career The grandson of General George Fead, he joined the Royal Navy on June 9, 1824, and served for over 26 years. His first posting was under his uncle, Captain Francis Fead, R.N. until he became commander of the Express 6 on July 3, 1851.

After being forced to pay the customs duty, an enraged Vanderbilt returned to the US and inflamed anti-British sentiment in the press. Fead's actions were found to be in violation of Article 1 of the Clayton–Bulwer Treaty.