Antonio de los Reyes Correa (c. 1665 – June 9, 1758), also known as El Capitán Correa, was a Puerto Rican native who served as a captain in the Spanish Marine Infantry. Correa was born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico to José Rodríguez Correa and Francisca Rodriguez de Valdez Colón. He was in charge of the local militia whose mission was to protect Arecibo from attacks by pirates or other European powers. His claim to fame came as a result of his defense of the city from an attack by English forces on August 5, 1702.
On August 5, 1702, two Royal Navy warships under the command of William Whetstone approached Arecibo. From them, two rowboats transporting 40 marines and sailors proceeded to land on the town's beach. A force of 30 local militiamen, led by Correa, was mustered to confront the invaders. The English landing force suffered 22 casualties while eight men onboard Whetstone's ships were killed or wounded by Spanish artillery fire. The defenders suffered one killed and three wounded, including Correa. Whetstone's ships withdrew, ending the engagement. by King Philip V of Spain and given the title of "Captain of Infantry" on September 23, 1703. It was within Spanish tradition to name its Captain of Infantry to the position of Mayor. Correa served as temporary mayor of Arecibo from 1700 to 1701 and then as official mayor from 1701 to 1705. He also served as mayor from 1710 to 1714 and from 1716 to 1744. Correa, who was married to Estefanía Rodríguez de Matos y Colón Luyando, died on June 9, 1758.
Early years
Correa was born to a Portuguese immigrant named José Rodríguez Correa and Francisca Rodríguez de Valdés, who was the daughter of a military captain. His father was enrolled in the Arecibo branch of the Puerto Rican militia and was able to acquire some estate. Correa was born around 1665, by his own account.