High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles! HMS Caledonia was a British brig which saw service on the Great Lakes during the War of 1812. The Caledonia was built in Malden in Upper Canada for the North West Company, and launched in 1807. During the early part of the War, the vessel was commandeered by the British Army, and played an important part in the Siege of Fort Mackinac, carrying troops and guns to the island.