,^'- 
 
 
o 
 
 .<^ 
 
 o V 
 
 
 
THE LIFE 
 
 OF 
 
 OLIVER HAZARD PERRY 
 
 WITH AN 
 
 APPENblX, 
 
 OMPRISING BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES OF THE LATE, 
 GENERAL PIKE AND CAPTAIN LAWRENCE, AND A 
 VIEW OF THE PRESENT CONDITION AND FUTURE 
 PROSPECTS OF THE NAVY OF THE UNITED STi^7E^. 
 
 He 7net the enemy c;?rf f/ie;, zuere oursJ^ 
 
 BY JOHN i\K N?LFS\ ESQ 
 
 HARTFORD 
 
 PUBLISHED BY WILLIAM S. MARSH, 
 
 R. Slorrs.... Printer. 
 1320. 
 
DISTRICT OF Connecticut, s^. 
 
 ^ g BE IT REMEMBERED, 1 hat oo tbe eleventh day ai 
 June 'II the t'orty-fonrtb year of the iadependence of 
 the United States of America, WILLIAM S. MARSH, of the 
 said district, hath deposited in this office the title of a Book, the 
 right whereof he claioas as proprietor, in the words following, to 
 TV it : 
 
 " The life of Oliver Hazard Perry, with an Appendix, com- 
 prising biographical sketches of the late General Pike and Capt, 
 Lawrence; and a view of the present crndition and fiitnre pros- 
 pects of the Navy of the United States. ' He met the enemy 
 and they were ours.' By John M. Niles, Esq." 
 
 lu coni'orraity to the act ot the Congress of the United States, 
 entitled, " An act few the enconragempot of learning, by secur- 
 ing the copies of Maps, Charts and Books to the authors and pro- 
 prietors of such copies, during the times therein mentioned." 
 CHARLES A. INGERSOLL, 
 Clerk of the District of Connecticut. 
 A true copy of record, examined by me, 
 
 CHARLES A. INGERSOLL, 
 Clerk of the District of Connecticut 
 
tmaif A©M* 
 
 TiiE ingratitude of Republics to their distinguisli- 
 zd benefactors and heroes, has long been proverbial. 
 But this opinion, like many others with relation to 
 Republican governments, had it« origin in the exam- 
 ples of Greece and Rome, and so far as it imports 
 that ingratitude to those who render important ser» 
 vices to their country, is peculiar to, or in any way 
 a consequence of, Republican institutions, is entire- 
 ly unfounded. We speak of the sense of a nation, 
 not of its policy. That the policy of monarchial and 
 aristocratical governments, is difTererit from that of 
 Republics v/ith relation to this subject, is admittedo 
 The former are governments of men^ the latter of 
 lanis. They are founded not only upon ditferent 
 principles, but upon those which are directly oppo- 
 site. The former is established upon the basis of 
 social distinctiGns — the latter upon that of the equal- 
 ity of mankind. — To exalt and ennoble a few, at the 
 expense of the rest, is not only co:isistent with the 
 general views and policy of a monarchial govern- 
 
^•V PREFACE. 
 
 ment, but forms a part of the government itself.— 
 The ' Corinthian capitals of society,'* form the prin- 
 cipal feature in its constitution. It is necessary^ 
 therefore, in such governments to confer titles, dig- 
 nities and estates, and that these are sometimes con- 
 ferred according to merit, must be admitted. But the 
 question is, whether a government of this description 
 is more favourable than a Republic to the apprecia- 
 tion of real merit and services. It is ridiculous, we 
 think, to contend that it is. Where there is so much 
 artificial and hereditarif greatness, dignity and conse- 
 quence, real merit, talents and services must be ex= 
 posed to serious obstacles. Let it not be said that 
 monarchial governments, from their power of con- 
 ferring titles, and creating an hereditary nobility, 
 possess more ample means of rewarding distinguish- 
 €d public services, than Republics. Titles at best 
 are but an empty reward, and in this country they are 
 altogether despised. The names of Benjamin Frank- ■ 
 ^in, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, con- 
 vey to the mind more just and distinct ideas of exal- 
 ted patriotism, of distinguished public services, and 
 of real greatness, than could be done by any titles 
 which could have been given them. But if we were 
 *A Dobility are thus denooiinated by Edmnnd Bnrkp 
 
PREFACE. V 
 
 to concede all iliat the greatest advocate for n^.onar- 
 chj would claim, as to the importance of the power 
 of conferring titles, and creating an hereditary nobil- 
 ity, as a means of rewarding public services, the ad- 
 vantages of this power, with reference to this object, 
 are infinitely less than the disadvantages and embar- 
 rassments which arise from it. In a Republican 
 government, the proper and legitimate reward for 
 distinguished public services, (in addition to the na- 
 tion's gratitude and admiration,) is the honours and 
 emoluments of pubHc offices and employments. But 
 in a monarchy, the titled and hereditary great-men, 
 engross nearly all of these, leaving to real talents and 
 dittiiignishcd services, little chance of sharing in 
 these honours and distinctions. If it is said that it i^ 
 the nation, ratlicr than its government, to whom its 
 distinguished benefactors are to look for their reward^ 
 we would ask v.'hethcr there is any thing in aristo- 
 Gratical institutions, wliicli gives the people a more 
 lively sense of justice ; whether they are more iniel- 
 ligent^ Tvhich enal>les them more jiistly to appreciate 
 public merit, or have more interest in public aili^irs, 
 which more strongly inclines them to reward it, than 
 they have in a Republic. It we are told that in the 
 ancient democraiica! governments to which wp 
 
>J PREFACE. 
 
 have referred, those who had rendered their coaii- i 
 try the most important services, were often the vic- 
 tims of popular prejudice or indignation, we reply 
 that those governments being without any fixed and 
 permanent principles, were governments oimen, and 
 in this particular more resembled the aristocratical 
 than the systematic and well regulated Republican 
 governments of the present day. We also reply that 
 examples of like ingratitude are to be found in all the 
 feudal monarchies of Europe, particularly in Eng- 
 land. In that country examples are not wanting of 
 individuals distinguished for their services for the 
 crown, the nation, and thepeople, having fallen vie- 
 lims to court intrigues and royal displeasure. Of 
 the first, Wolsey, Raleigh, Essex, and many others, 
 are distinguished examples, and the two last, i 
 comprise most of the enlightened and distinguished 1 
 patriots of that country — her Sidneys, Russels and 
 Emmets. 
 
 That the charge of the ingratitude of Republics is 
 unfounded the history of this country fully demon^ 
 strates. Whilst it does not furnish a single impor- 
 tant example in support of this opinion, it affords nu- 
 merous distinguished examples to the contrary.— 
 Among the most conspicvious of these^ is that whic^ 
 
PREFACE. Vll 
 
 IS the subject of the following volume. However 
 splendid the achievements, or important the services 
 of Perry mav be considered, it must be admitted that 
 they were duly appreciated, and suitably rewarded 
 by his country. With the man of a cultivated under- 
 standing and refined sense of honour, the homage of 
 a nation's respect and admiration, is the most grate» 
 ful reward. Compared to this titles and dignities 
 are a mere " sound of brass and tinkling cymbal." 
 They may please the ear, but cannot reach the heart. 
 Such are the rewards of our country, which in an 
 eminent degree, were enjoyed by our youthful hero. 
 In his life he was the subjectof the admiration of his 
 country — in his death, of its sorrow. The respect 
 which was felt for his virtues and services, was trans- 
 lated into reverence for his memory — into venera- 
 tion for his example. His memory will long be cher- 
 ished, and defying oblivion's power, the lapse of 
 time will consecrate his name and virtues. 
 
 These considerations have occasioned, and we 
 trust will justify the following volume. How far its 
 execution may correspond with the importance and 
 merits of the subject, is submitted to the public. In 
 addition to a faithful account of the life of Perry, we 
 have aimed to give the work as much historic valu*^ 
 
Vlii PREFACE. 
 
 as would consist with the design of it, and have em- 
 bodied a history of the war upon the north-western 
 frontier, which was so gloriously terminated in the 
 victories of lake Erie and the Thames. We have al- 
 so given a brief account of the Tripolitan vv^ar of 
 1801, not so much in consequence of the concern 
 Perry had in it as in consideration of its being the 
 great practical school of most of our naval ofllcers. 
 and of its general influence upon their character, in 
 which Perry shared in common with others. The 
 geographical information and topographical descrip- 
 tions, as to the western lakes and the country bor- 
 dering upon them, may be considered more ample 
 than the nature of the work would justify ; but when 
 hiformation is attempted to be given upon any subject 
 a mustbe somewhat complete, or it is entirely useless. 
 The facts and materials which the work comprises, 
 have been derived from authentic sources, and what- 
 ever may be thought of it in other respects, it is hum- 
 bly believed, that so far as industry in research, and 
 care in compilation, can ensure historic correctness 
 and accuracy of detail, it possesses these essential 
 characteristics. THE AUTHOR- 
 
CONTENTS; 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 Introductory remarks— Perry's birth— his ancestry^sketch of 
 the life of his father — his fathers family— state of his health 
 and constitution when a child — early indications of intellect — 
 observations on that subject — Perry's education — his entry in* 
 fn the naval service of his country. p. 13 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 
 Perry's entry on board the General Green, commanded by hUs 
 father— first cruise of the General Green on the Havanna 
 station— her subsequent cruises — incident ivith a British 74— 
 General Green visited the port of Jacmael— assisted in the re- 
 duction of that place— Perry leaves the General Green at the 
 reduction of the navy — sails for the Mediterranean i7i 1801— 
 ii promoted to an acting Lieutenancy— -returns — i?i 1804. sails 
 again for the Mediterranean — commencement of differences 
 between the United States and the Regency of Tripoli — action 
 between the American schooner Enterprise and Tripolitan 
 Corsair— Com. Dale sails with a squadron for the Mediterra- 
 nean—blockades Tripoli — in 1803 another squadron sent out 
 under Com- Preble — differences with the Emperor of Moroc-^ 
 CO — loss of the Philadelphia — her re-caftxire by Lieut, Deca- 
 'ur— attack upon Tripoli, S{c» p. 2^ 
 
:.C CONTENTS. 
 
 CHAPTER HI. 
 
 The embarrassment of our commerce — the restriciive measure^— 
 employment of the navy in consequenze thereof — Perry com" 
 mands a Jiotilla of gun boats— is transferred to the Revenge- 
 assists the Diana in distress— loss of the Revenge — declaration 
 of var — stale of the navy at that time — Perry appointed to 
 command a Jiotilla of gun boats—is transferred to the Lakes 
 —capture of Caledonia and Detroit — capture of York — Perry 
 ordered to superintend the building a feet at Erie—haves 
 there to asssist in the attack upon Fort George — vessels 
 built at Erie got over the bar — Perry sails with the squadron, 
 and retires to Put-in-Bay — preceding events of the rear upon 
 the northwestern frontier — General Hull's army — his ivasion 
 qf Canada — the employment of the Indians by the British- 
 Hull's retreat and capitulation— General Harrison's cam^ 
 paign — defeat of General JVinchcster — Fort Meigs — Col. Dud* 
 ley's defeat—gallant defence of Fort Stephenson, p, 54 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 Remarks on the vicissitudes of war — Perry arrives ivith his 
 squadron off the mouth ofSandvsky I'iver — sails a7id reconnoi^ 
 ires Ike enemy at 3!ald<:n, and returns to Puf-in-Bay—re- 
 2narks or. the repose which preceded the actinn, and its impor- 
 tance — particular account of the acfioji of the ^Oth September 
 ■ — some incidents and anecdotes— force of the two fleets — their 
 loss — remarks on the victory — the fleet cniicenf rates the troops 
 at Put-in-Bay — lands them below MoMen — the enemy evacu- 
 ates that pla-e — is pwsued to Sandwich— thence to the Mora- 
 vian town on the Thames — the decisive victory at that place, 
 and capture of Proctor's army — hvma7iity of the Jmeticans 
 — the troops reimmto Detroit — Indians sue for peace — provis- 
 ional government established in the conquered disirict of Vp' 
 per Canada— Harrison and Perry p-oc^sO (^rnrnibe lake to 
 Buffalo. p. "i^"^ 
 
CONTENTS. ^ 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 Memarks on the consequences of the victory of hake Erie — coU" 
 dition of the north-western frontier at the time Perry arrived 
 there — its situation when he left it — the scene of the victory- 
 is calculated to swell its importance^ and perpetuate its fame— 
 the great valley of the St. Lawrence — importance of the acqui- 
 sition of the Canadas — ample general view o^' the vast chain of 
 water communication which drains this great valley— partic- 
 ular description of Lake Erie and iti> borders^ which were the 
 scenes of the war — the Irylian country in the state of Ohio—^ 
 general view of the territory if Michigan, and that vast region 
 nest of lake Michigan, and south of lake Superior — general 
 view of the north-western districts in Upper Canada, the scene 
 of the war in that province. p. 173 
 
 CHAPTER VL 
 
 The victory of the lOth September^ occasions a general rejoicing 
 throughout the Union — the illumination at Philadelphia-^ 
 Perry promoted to the rank of Captain in the navy — He prO" 
 uedsfrom Buffalo to Albany— tribute of respect shewn to hini 
 at that place— proceeds thence to Newport, where he is receiv- 
 ed with admiration — a gold medal presented to him by order of 
 Congress — Perry leaves Newport for ff^ashington— public 
 dinner given him in New-York — also at the seat of govern- 
 ment — a most splendid entertainment given in honour of him 
 on his return, at Baltimore — is assigned to command on the 
 Newport station— public dinner given in honour of him at BoS" 
 ton — assists a Swedish brig at Newport — visits the eastern coast 
 —after the capture of Washington, Perry repaired thither— 
 commanded a battery to annoy the enemy in going down the 
 river— is at Baltimore at the attack upon that place— is ap- 
 pointed to superintend the equipment of the Java, p. 225 
 
XU CONTENTS. 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 
 The Java is brovght to Newport— Perry assists in rescuing ship- 
 wrecked seamen — sails in the Java for the Mediterranean — dif- 
 ference between the United States and the Regency of Algiers'— 
 hostile proceedings ofthelatter in 1812 — United States declare 
 war in 1815— Decatur^ s squadron arrived at Gibraltar in 
 May, same year — capture of an Algerine frigate and brig— 
 a negociation follows — a treaty concluded— the squadron pr»- 
 ceeds to Tunis — thence to Tripoli — the ratified copy of the 
 treaty carried mit by the Java— was at first rejected by the 
 Dey, who became greatly enraged — dispute between CommO" 
 dore Perry and Captain Heath— another treaty concluded with 
 the Dey by Commodore Chauncey — Perry in thp Java returns 
 to the United States — duel between Perry and Heath — in 1819, 
 Perry sails for the Orinoco — incidents of that voyage— re- 
 marks on the country, government, ^c— proceeds to Port 
 Spain— his death and burial. p. 253 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 General remarks on the human character — the character of Per- 
 ry — his public career— his personal services in the action upon 
 lake Erie— his humanity after the victory— his patriotism arid 
 devotion to the service — his death regarded as a public calami- 
 ty— public demonstrations of sorrow — the imvioriality of his 
 fame. p. 301 
 
 APPENDIX 
 
 Biography of Gen, Pike, p. 317 
 
 of Capt, Lawrence, p, 338 
 
LIFE 
 
 OF 
 
 ®®mo iPiEiBiEir. 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 Introduciory remarks — Perry'' s birth; his ancestry- 
 sketch of the life of his father— his f ather'' s fami- 
 ly — state of his health and constitution when a 
 child — early indications of intellect — observations 
 on that subject — Perry^s education — his entry into 
 the naval service of his country, 
 
 THE Deity, in the infinite wisdom in which 
 he has created all things, seems to have ordered that 
 no individual of the human species, however selfish 
 his character, or insulated his situation, should live 
 wholly for himself. Not only individual wants and 
 dependence, but that necessity, of a participation 
 with others, in those enjoyments which may be con- 
 sidered as most peculiarly belonging to the posses- 
 sor, the principles of which are implanted in hu- 
 man nature, and which every one feels, tend to give 
 to mankind a social character, and in some meas- 
 ure to weaken individual, and to create an aggre- 
 gate or common interest among the different mem- 
 
 2 
 
14 ' LIFE OF 
 
 bers of the human family. The numerous obliga- 
 tions and duties arising from the social relations, ex- 
 tend the sphere of influence, and render every in- 
 dividual of some importance to others ; and give 
 each a character of contributing something towards 
 the general welfare and happiness, or the detriment 
 and injury of his species. All, whilst living, possess 
 an influence which extends beyond themselves, and 
 are, it is to be presumed, in some way useful ; but 
 there are few, whose usefulness does not cease with 
 their existence ; few who have been so fortunate, or 
 so pre-eminently distinguished for talents and virtue, 
 as to extend the limits of their influence beyond 
 their lives. Yet there are some of this description : 
 the great and the wise, are not only useful whilst 
 living, but their example continues its instruction as 
 long as it is preserved. It is consecrated by death, 
 and rendered more sacred, and more happy and ex- 
 tensive in its influence. It is a mantle of inspiration, 
 which instructs and animates ; exalts the character, 
 elevates the views, gives to ambition its proper di- 
 rection, and to virtue its proper ascendency. Hence 
 the propriety of preserving a record of the lives of 
 the great and the good. It is from the influence of 
 these sentiments that we have supposed it important 
 to preserve the history of the individuals in our juve- 
 nile republic, who have been distinguished for their 
 talents, their virtues, their learning or their fortune, 
 whereby they have contributed to the reputation, the 
 bonor, or the prosperity of their country. — Among 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. liJ 
 
 these individuais it will be conceded that the one 
 who is the subject of this memoir, sustains, in the 
 estimation of the citizens of the United States, a 
 conspicuous rank. 
 
 Oliver Hazard, son of Christopher Raymond 
 and Sarah Alexander Perry, was born August 
 21st, A. D. 1785, at South-Kingston, an interesting 
 maritime township, distinguished for the nautical 
 character of its inhabitants, situated on the waters of 
 the Narragansett, (opposite to the town of Newport,) 
 in the County of Washington, and State of Rhode- 
 Island. Christopher Raymond, the father of Oliver 
 Hazard, was the son of the Hon. Freeman Perry, 
 who was a man of talents and distinction, and held 
 many important offices, having been at different pe- 
 riods of his life, clerk of the court for the county, a 
 judge, &;c. ; the duties of which numerous offices 
 and trusts, he discharged with faithfulness and ability. 
 He died at South-Kingston, at the advanced age of 
 82, in October, 1813, having lived to witness the 
 blaze of Glory which surrounded bis descendant, the 
 gallant Oliver Hazard, his grandson. 
 
 Of the more distant ancestors of Commodore Per- 
 ry, we are informed that on the maternal side, he was 
 descended in a direct line from William WallacCj 
 distinguished in the history and wars of Scotland. 
 In the paternal line, his great-great-grandfather lived 
 \n Wales, in Great-Britain ; who had three sons, 
 Samuel, Edward, and Benjamin, who emigrated to 
 America. The two former were among the early 
 
16 LIFE OP 
 
 settlers of the colony of Plymouth, and the latter, 
 the youngest, and the lineal ancestor of our hero, 
 settled at South-Kingston, in Rhode-Island. He had 
 two sons, Edward and Freeman, and two daughters? 
 Marj and Susan. Freeman, who we have already 
 mentioned as the grand-father of Oliver Hazard, had 
 seven children, Joshua, Oliver Hazard, Christopher 
 Raymond, Elizabeth, Mary, Susan and George Haz- 
 ard. 
 
 Christopher Raymond, the third son of Freeman 
 Perry, and the father of Oliver Hazard, was born at 
 South-Kingston, in 1761. Although but a youth at 
 the commencement of the revolutionary war, he par- 
 ticipated largely in the dangers and hardships of that 
 trying period, and was often engaged, both in the 
 military and naval service. 
 
 He was first employed as a seaman on board an 
 American privateer, commanded by Capt. Reed, and 
 afterwards served as a volunteer on board of th» 
 Trumbull, a public vessel of war. He was also a 
 volunteer on board the Miifiin sloop of war, com- 
 manded by George Wait Babcock, and while in this 
 service was taken by the enemy, and for three 
 !Bonths was immured in the infamous Jersey prison 
 vhip. Here, in common with thousands of hiscoun- 
 irymen, he sutfered, from the loathsomeness of his 
 situation, the badness of provisions, and other causes, 
 all that human nature could bear. He was among the 
 few who survived the sufferings and horrors of this situ- 
 ation. But he only survived, having been severely 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY, 17 
 
 attaclced by a fever, occasioned by his situation, and 
 the desolating contagion that surrounded the place, 
 which nearly proved fatal. But his sufferings and 
 dangers did not check his ardour or overcome his 
 spirit. After his liberation and the restoration of his 
 health, he again entered the naval service, on hoard 
 a private armed brig commanded by Capt, Rathbone, 
 and whilst cruising in the English channel was again 
 taken prisoner, and confined for eighteen months in 
 England ; having at the end of that period, escaped 
 from confinement ; and, leaving a country which had 
 been to him only a prison, he soon embarked for St, 
 Thomas, and from thence for Charleston, where he 
 arrived about the time of the conclusion of the 
 treaty of peace. After the establishment of peace 
 between the United States and Great-Britain, in 
 1783, he engaged in his favorite maritime pursuits, 
 being employed in the East-India and other trade 
 until in or about the year 1798, when he was ap- 
 pointed to the command of the United States' ship 
 General Green. While in this commmand he per- 
 formed several cruises, principally on the West-In- 
 dia station, and continued in the public service until 
 the reduction of the marine in 1801. Subsequently 
 to this period, he received the appointment of col. 
 lector of the revenue for the first district of Rhode- 
 Island. In 1783, he married Sarah Alexander Wal- 
 lace, a Scotch lady, who, the year preceding, came 
 as a passenger to Philadelphia, in the same vessel of 
 which Capt. Perry was then mate, under the 
 2* 
 
18^' LIFE OF 
 
 protection of Matthew Calbraith. Mrs. Perry was of 
 a respectable family, and her connections in Scot- 
 land comprised many individuals of consequence and 
 distinction. Christopher Raymond, and Sarah Al- 
 exander Perry, had eight children, Oliver Hazard, 
 the subject of the present work, Raymond Henry, a 
 Lieutenant in the Navy, and now in the Mediterra- 
 nean, Matthew Calbraith, and James Alexander, both 
 Lieutenants in the navy, Nathaniel Hazard, and 
 three daughters. Christopher Raymond Perry died 
 June 1st, 1818. 
 
 Oliver Hazard, in early life, gave but little prom- 
 ise of physical energy, being slender and feeble, and 
 the state of his health extremely delicate ; yet his 
 size was more than ordinary, and it was supposed 
 that the feebleness of his constitution, and the deli- 
 cacy of his health, were owing, in a great measure, 
 to the rapidity of his growth. But this physical imbe- 
 cihty of constitution was, from its nature, soon over- 
 come, and as he ripened towards manhood, his 
 strength having become commensurate with his size, 
 he was athletic and robust, and possessed an uncom- 
 mon share of natural vigour and energy. At this 
 period the size, stateliness and dignity of his person 
 were uncommon and conspicuous. But these were 
 not the only nor most important indications of his 
 future character. At an early period he disclosed 
 mental qualities, which were more sure presages of 
 his future greatness — a mind sedate, studious and 
 enquiring ; soaring, at an early age, beyond the 
 
OLIVER H. PERRV. 19 
 
 trivial and ephemeral objects which usually circum- 
 scribe the views and occupy the attention of youth. 
 In these remarks we would not wish to be misunder- 
 stood. We do not belong to that class who seem to 
 suppose that every man who becomes distinguished, 
 (even although his greatness may be rather fortuitous 
 than the result of native powers,) must have been a 
 prodigy when a child. Hence we find in the bio- 
 graphical memoirs of most distinguished individuals, 
 numerous stories and anecdotes, narrated with all 
 the dignity of historic truth, tending to shew that the 
 man who afterwards became such, was a great math- 
 ematician, a great poet, or a great hero, even when 
 a child, which had no existence in fact, or were so 
 nearly allied to common occurrencs, as not to' have 
 been a subject of observation at the time, and would 
 never have been thought of afterwards, had it not 
 been for the subsequent distinction of the individual. 
 What can be more ridiculous ! But with this, as 
 with most other subjects, there is a proneness in 
 mankind to ascribe to novel and extraordinary cau- 
 ses, what is the result of the ordinary principles of 
 nature ; and among these principles there are none 
 more apparent, although none more disregarded and 
 abused, than that of the equality of mankind. In 
 the nvoral as well as the physical attributes of our spe- 
 cies, mankind are essentially equal. All have the 
 same passions, and the same intellectual powers : 
 the difference which exists is not in principle^ but in 
 degree* We are not to expect prodigies in the shape 
 
20 LIFE OF 
 
 of men ; and the prevalence of such ideas is to be 
 regretted : as they are unfounded in fact, so they 
 are pernicious in their consequences. No more ef- 
 fectual way of degrading and oppressing maiikind, 
 has eyer been devised — none has ever been more 
 successful than that of exalting individuals of the hu- 
 man family above humanity ; of rendering t^hem demi 
 Gods, and secondary objects of adoration. From the 
 exaltation of individuals, whole classes have been 
 exalted ; and the same causes which raise one por- 
 tion of the human family to sup-erior beings, degrade 
 others to the brute creation. Let it not be thought 
 that the delusion of paying " divine honors" to mor- 
 tal men, has passed by. It exists at the present day, 
 and has existed at all times. It is true that igno- 
 rance and crediility are the support of such false and 
 pernicious opinions ; but was there ever a time when 
 igno^-ance and credulity did not exist. That some 
 individuals have more innate bravery, and some 
 more nafive genius and capacity than others, is ad- 
 mitted : yet it does not even follow that such uni- 
 formly, or perhaps more frequently than others, be- 
 come distinguished. This shews how much depends 
 upon education, industry, and the influence of favor- 
 able circumstances, having a tendency to give a de- 
 velopement and direction to the capacity of individ- 
 uals. 
 
 From these considerations we shall not trouble the 
 reader with any details of the early feats and ex- 
 ploits of our hero ; but sbai) consider him, whea ^ 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 21 
 
 child, as like unto other children. We shall not 
 claim that he was born a great man 5 but that he be- 
 came such from a judicious and successful use of the 
 powers given him, and from a concurrence of cir- 
 cumstances, affording an opportunity for a display of 
 those powers. We have remarked that when a boy, 
 he was remarkably sedate and thoughtful, and con- 
 sidered this circumstance as in some measure a pre- 
 sage of his future character. It may be deemed so as 
 much asany other, but no characteristic of a child can 
 indicate the character of the man, as that depends 
 upon a great variety of causes, some of which are 
 more or less fortuitous in their nature, and cannot be 
 controuled by human foresight. Levity of mind, 
 although it is not altogether incompatible with a cer- 
 tain species of talent, is never, however, associated 
 with those mental qualities, which are requisite for 
 the performance of great actions. It is to be expec- 
 ted in youth; but the extention of its dominion to 
 manhood, destroys the dignity, and in a great meas- 
 ure the usefulness of the human character. A mind 
 naturally serious, thoughtfal and enquiring, is seldom 
 destitute of capacity and energy; and when these 
 qualities are discernible in youth, a period in which 
 levity and passion usually have an undisputed domin- 
 ion, they may be considered as affording a promise 
 of future talents, character, and usefulness, which 
 few other characteristics disclose. 
 
 The early education of Oliver Hazard was not 
 neglected; although he did not enjoy very superior 
 
^2 LIFE Gl- 
 
 ad vantages. He was principallj educated at New- 
 port, and attended the best schools that place affor- 
 ded. He was an ex( client scholar, remarkably stu- 
 dious, and made great proficiency in every branch of 
 learning to which his attention was directed. But 
 his father having designed him for the navy, the peri- 
 od of his education was very limited, and at the ear- 
 ly age of fourteen, he was withdrawn from the peace- 
 ful and pleasing pursuits of literature, to that profes- 
 sion of which he became the brightest ornamentj 
 and to that element which has been the scene of his 
 glory and usefulnegs. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 23 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 
 Perry* s entry on board the General Green, commanded by his 
 father— Jirst cruise of the General Green an the Havanna 
 station — her subsequent cruises — incident with a British 74— 
 General Green visited the port of Jacmael — assisted w the re- 
 duction of that place — Perry haves the General Green at the 
 reduction of the navy — sails for the Mediterranean in 1801 — 
 is promoted to an acting Lieutenancy — returns — in 1804, sails 
 again for the Mediterranean — commencement of differences 
 between the United States and the Regency of Tripoli—action 
 between the Americaii schooner Enterprise and Tripolitan 
 Corsair— Com. Dale sails with a squadron for the Mediterra- 
 nean — blockades Tripoli — in 1803 another squadron sent out 
 under Com. Preble — differences with the Emperor of Moroc- 
 co — loss of the Philadelphia — her re-capture by Lieut. Deca- 
 tur— attack opnn Tripoli, Sfc. 
 
 Oliver Hazard Perry commenced his naval 
 career under the auspices of his father. In April 
 1799, at the early age of fourteen, he received a mid- 
 shipman's warrant, and entered on board the Gene- 
 ral Green, commanded by his father. The first 
 cruise of the General Green was on the Havanna 
 station, and was one of great utility. She returned 
 from her cruise on the 27th day of July following^ 
 having, in so short a period, convoyed more than 
 fifty mercantile vessels, bound to different ports in 
 the United States. The important services which 
 the General Green rendered our commerce, would 
 
24 LIFE or 
 
 have been prolonged, had it not been for the preva- 
 lence of a contagious disease among the crew, which 
 obliged her to quit her station, and return to the Uni- 
 ted States. This was the first voyage made by our 
 youthful hero ; and it was here, under the nautical 
 and moral guidance and instruction of paternal ex- 
 perience and skill, that he was first initiated in the 
 rudiments of that school of hardships and perils — a 
 seafaring; life. It was here that he first became fa- 
 miliar with that element upon which he was after- 
 wards destined to act so conspicuous and useful a 
 part. 
 
 Oliver Hazard continued on board the General 
 Green during her subsequent cruises, and profiting 
 both by instruction and experience, he made rapid 
 proficiency in naval tactics. On a cruise from New- 
 Orleans to Havanna, with a brig under convoy, the 
 General Green fell in with a British 74, on which 
 occasion an incident occured, that, though unimpor- 
 tant in itself, disclosed the bravery of the elder Per- 
 ry, and the character of of the American navy, at j 
 that early period. The British ship fired a shot at 
 the brig to bring her to ; but neither the brig nor the 
 General Green payingany attention to this, but keep- 
 ing their course, a boat was dispatched from the 74 
 to beard the brig ; upon which the General Green 
 fired a shot at the boat, which brought her alongside, 
 whereupon the 74 bore down and spoke the General \ 
 Green, demanding the reason why her boat was fir- 
 ed upon ; to which Capt. Perry replied that it was 
 
OLIVER H, PERRY. 25 
 
 to prevent her boarding the brig, which was under 
 his protection. To this the British captain observ- 
 ed, that it was very surprising a British 74 gun ship 
 could not examine a merchant brig ! " If she was a 
 first rate ship,^' said Capt. Perry, " she should not 
 do it to the dishonour of my flag." The captain of 
 the 74 then in very polite terms, asked Capt. Perry 
 if he would consent to the brig's being examined ; 
 Capt. Perry assented, observing, however, that it 
 would be useless, a? he was confident that no part of 
 her cargo was liable to seizure. 
 
 During the cruise of the General Green on the 
 West-India station, in 1800, she visited the port of 
 Jacniel, which at that time was invested by land by 
 a detachment of the celebrated Toussaint's army. 
 The General Green, after having cruised off the port 
 for some time, and intercepted supplies destined for 
 the relief of the garrison, assisted in the reduction 
 of the place ; which, being closely besieged on the 
 land side by Toussaint's army, and blockaded by 
 the General Green, was soon reduced to a state of 
 -starvation, and the whole garrison, consisting of more 
 than 5000, surrendered to Toussaint. The General 
 Green engaged three of the forts very warmly for 
 some time, and obliged the enemy to evacuate the 
 town and two of their forts, and retire to their stron- 
 I gest fort; the colours of which, however, were soon 
 hauled down. The damage sustained by the Amer- 
 I ican frigate in this affair, was very inconsiderable, 
 
 • 
 
26 LIFE OF 
 
 a few shots in her sides, and some of her rigging cut 
 away. 
 
 The reduction of this place was at the time thought 
 to be of great importance to the commerce of the 
 United States. 
 
 From the spirit, promptitude, and bravery dis- 
 played in this aftair, and the occurrence with the 
 British 74, it would seem that the father taught the 
 son by exsimple as well as precept ; and that neither 
 were lost upon him has been fully proved. 
 
 Oliver Hazard continued on board the General 
 Green until the reduction of the navy in 1801 . The 
 same year, the Tripolitan corsairs having committed 
 depredations upon our commerce in the Mediterra- 
 nean, three frigates and a sloop of war were order- 
 ed there for its protection. Perry was attached to 
 the Adams frigate, one of the three, commanded by 
 Capt. Campbell. This small squadron was active 
 and useful. It afforded protection to a number of 
 our mercantile vessels ; cleared the Mediterranean 
 of the piratical flag, the Tripolitan cruisers being 
 compelled to retire to their ports ; and blockaded 
 Tripoli. — Perry returned to the United States in the 
 year 1 803, having during this cruise in the Mediter- 
 ranean, improved greatly in naval tactics, from ex- 
 perience and observation, and been promoted to an 
 acting Lieutenancy. This was a most wseful school 
 to him, as well as to many other of our naval offi- 
 cers ; and that he made a good use of the opportune 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 27 
 
 ties which it afforded, will not be doubted. In 1 804, 
 under his old commander Capt. Campbell, he sailed 
 again for the Mediterranean ; Capt. Campbell com- 
 manding one of the four frigates sent out as a rein- 
 forcement to our squadron. Soon after this, he was 
 appointed first Lieutenant of the Nautilus, in which 
 situation he continued some time. Perry remained 
 with our squadron in the Mediterranean, until the con- 
 clusion of peace with Tripoli, when he returned to 
 the United States, in the capacity of second Lieuten- 
 ant of the Essex frigate, commanded by Com. Ro- 
 gers. He was concerned, with the exception of the 
 interval that he was absent, in the various opera- 
 tions of our navy on this station ; and it was here 
 that he caught the spirit, as well as the skill and ex- 
 perience of naval warfare. It was here that his na- 
 tive bravery was first disclosed, and his character, 
 which subsequently has become a subject of just ad- 
 miration, developed. 
 
 From the connection which Perry had with the 
 Tripolitan war, and as this may be considered as the 
 school where most of our naval officers were first 
 practically instructed in naval tactics, and hostile 
 maritime operations, it will not be thought a digres- 
 sion to give a more connected and particular history 
 of it. 
 
 In April, 1799, the Bashaw of Tripoli, under the 
 influence of the capricious and arbitrary policy which 
 
28 LIFE OF 
 
 directs the councils of that government, (if goveru- 
 rnent it can be called,) peremptorily ordered away 
 the American consul, then resident at Tripoli, un- 
 less certain recent and novel demands which he had 
 made upon the United States should be complied 
 with. No depredations, however, were committed 
 upon our commerce by the corsairs of Tripoli, until 
 the year 1801, the Bashaw having, on the 10th of 
 June, of that year, declared war against the United 
 States. His cruisers were immediately ordered ta 
 capture American vessels, and five were taken the 
 same month ; and many more it is probable would 
 have fallen into the hands of these pirates, had it not 
 been for the precautionary measures which were 
 adopted. In February preceding, Mr. Cathcart, 
 the British consul at Tripoli, perceiving that all 
 hopes of accommodation with the Regency were at 
 an end, addressed a circular letter to the American 
 consuls and agents in Etirope and Africa, advising 
 them of the dispositions of the Bashaw towards the 
 United States, and that he was convinced that the 
 TripoHtans would commence hostilities within sixty 
 days. In consequence of this information, many ves- 
 sels of the United States in different ports in the 
 Mediterranean were prevented from sailing, unless 
 under convoy. Hostilities having been commenced 
 by the Regency, there was no other course remain- 
 ing for the government of the United States, but to 
 chastise these pirates and freebooters. The first na- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY 29 
 
 val action that ensued, was in August following, off 
 Malta, between the American schooner Enterprize, 
 commanded by Capt. Sterrett, and a Tripolitan crui- 
 ser ; the former had twelve guns, and a crew of nine- 
 ty men ; the latter fourteen guns, and eighty-five 
 men. The action continued for nearly two hours, 
 and was fought with the greatest desperation. The 
 corsair being unable to withs'tard the dreadful fire of 
 the Enterprize, hauled dov/n hsr colours, upon which 
 the crew of the Enterprize .eft their guns, and gave 
 three cheers for victory : upon this the cruiser re- 
 sumed the action, poured a broadside into the Enter- 
 prize, hoisted her colours, and attempted to board. 
 They were again overcome, and struck their colours 
 the second time. Being ordered by Capt. Sterrett 
 under his quarter, they had no sooner taken that po- 
 sition, than they poured another broadside into the 
 Enterprize, hoisting their bloody flag, and renewing 
 the action once more. But they were soon over- 
 come the third time by the brave and skilful crew 
 of the Enterprize. When tlie cruiser renewed the 
 action the third time, the crew of the Enterprize, 
 indignant at such perfidious conduct, exclaimed, 
 " fight on, and sink the perfidious villains to the bot- 
 tom." But treacherous and vile as was their own 
 conduct, they did not hesitate, the moment they 
 perceived themselves in their power, to appeal in 
 the most supplicating manner, to the mercy of their 
 conquerors. The commander, to convince the 
 
30 LIFE OF 
 
 Americans that he would oifer no more resistance, 
 bending over the waist of the vessel, threw her col- 
 ours into the sea. Notwithstanding the base and 
 perfidious conduct of the Tripolitans, Capt. Sterrett 
 was actuated by too just sentiments of bravery, to 
 permit an unnecessary effusion of blood, or to con- 
 tinue to fire upon the enemy after they had ceased 
 all resistance, and when it was evident that it was no 
 longer in their power to make any. The corsair 
 was dreadfully shot to pieces ; her mizzen-mast shot 
 away, numerous shots between wind and water, and 
 fifty of her crew were killed and wounded. But the 
 Enterprize did not lose a single man, although the 
 action continued for nearly three hours.* Such is 
 the difference between barbarian bravery and disci- 
 plined valour and skill. 
 
 Subsequently to this action, the same year, com- 
 modore Dale, with a squadron of three frigates and a 
 sloop of war, sailed from the United States for the 
 Mediterranean. As we have already mentioned, 
 Perry was on board one of these frigates. On the 
 arrival of this squadron, Commodore Dale blockaded 
 the port of Tripoli, and published a regular notifica- 
 tion of the existence of the blockade. The pres- 
 ence and operations of this squadron, afforded ex- 
 tensive protection to the American commerce, and 
 compelled the Tripolitan cruisers to retire to tbeic 
 ports for safety. 
 
 '^ Naval History of the United States. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 31 
 
 The subsequent jear the Constellation, under the 
 command of Capt. Murray, sailed to the Mediterra- 
 nean. During this and part of the following year, 
 the Mediterranean squadron was under the com- 
 mand of Commodore Morris, and its operations were 
 unimportant, and occasioned much dissatisfaction, 
 the conduct of the Commodore having been severe- 
 ly censured ; but with what justice, we are not in the 
 possession of information to determine. In 1803, 
 the government resolved to prosecute the war with 
 Tripoli with vigour and effect : accordingly, a squad- 
 ron of seven sail was ordered to be fitted out for the 
 Mediterranean. 
 
 This squadron sailed from the United States on 
 the 13th of August, under the command of Commo- 
 dore Preble. It consisted of the Constitution of 44 
 guns, on board of which was the Commodore ; the 
 Philadelphia of 44; the Argus of 18; the Syren of 
 16 ; the Nautilus of 16 ; the Vixen of 16, and the 
 Enterprize of 14.* On the arrival of Com. Preble 
 at Gibraltar, he learned that our affairs with Moroc- 
 co had assumed a very suspicious aspect. A Moor- 
 ish brig captured by Capt. Bainbridge, was discover- 
 to have orders to cruise for American vessels, by the 
 authority of which it had captured an American brig ; 
 the Emperor, however, denied having given any or- 
 ders of this description. After this, another act of 
 hostility was committed ; an order was issued to seize) 
 
 *Na?al History of the United States, 
 
32 LIFE OF 
 
 all American vessels at Mogadore, and the brig Han- 
 nah, of Salem, was actually seized. This conduct 
 of the Emperor determined Commodore Preble to 
 adopt more decisive measures. He accordingly 
 gave orders to bring in, for examination, all Moor- 
 ish vessels ; and on the 5tli of October, the Empe- 
 ror of Morocco being expected at Tangiers, the 
 Commodore appeared with a part of his squadron, off 
 that port. This spirited conduct had the desired 
 effect. The next day a present was sent to the 
 American squadron ; the brig which had been de- 
 tained at Mogadore was released, and in a few days 
 the Commodore and American Consul, were invited 
 loan audience with the Emperor ; at which, he ex- 
 pressed much regret that any differences had arisen, 
 and said that he was desirous to beat peace with the 
 United States. By this spirited and vigorous con- 
 duct of Commodore Preble, the Emperor of Moroc- 
 co was deterred from hostilities with the United 
 States, upon which he had probably determined. 
 
 Our differences with Morocco being thus prompt- 
 ly adjusted. Commodore Preble was left at liberty to 
 act, with his whole force, against Tripoli ; but the 
 season was too far advanced to admit of active ope- 
 rations ; and, soon after, an accident occurred which 
 reduced his force, and in some measure interrupted 
 his views. It was the loss of the Philadelphia, under 
 circumstances peculiarly unfortunate and distressing. 
 On the morning of the 3 1st of October, the PhiladeJ- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. ;"> 
 
 phia, under the command of Capt. Bainbridge, being 
 about five leagues to the westward of Tripoli, dis- 
 cerned a sail, and immediately gave chase. The 
 sail which had hoisted Tripolitan colours, continued 
 her course near shore, and was pursued by the Phil- 
 adelphia for some time. The pursuit, however, was 
 given up when it was discovered that there was but 
 seven fathoms water, and that the fire of the frigate 
 had but little effect, and would not be likely to pre- 
 vent the vessel from entering Tripoli. On attempt- 
 ing to beat off, the Philadelphia, about four miles 
 and an half from the town, ran on a rock not laid 
 down in any chart. On sounding, it was discovered 
 that the greatest depth of water was astern, and it 
 was thereupon determined to back off the frigate ; 
 to effect which the most active exertions were made ; 
 the sails were laid aback, all the guns thrown over- 
 board, excepting a few abaft, which were required 
 to defend the ship from the Tripolitan gun boats 
 then firing at her ; the water in the hold started — 
 the anchors thrown away from the bows, and the 
 foremast cut away. But all exertions proved inef- 
 fectual ; yet her gallant commander and crew were 
 determined to defend her to the last extremity, not- 
 withstanding their embarrassed and distressing situa- 
 tion, deprived of almost every means of defence, 
 against the numerous gun boats by which she was at- 
 tacked ; but a large reinforcement coming out of 
 Tr.poli, they were reluctantly csmpeilcd to strike, 
 
34 LIFE OF 
 
 and to surrender themselves into the hands of a bar- 
 barous foe. This was about sunset. The Tripoli- 
 tans immediately took possession of the frigate, and 
 made prisoners of the crew, which, including officers, 
 consisted of about three hundred men. Two days 
 afterwards, the Tripolitans succeeded in getting the 
 frigate off, being favoured by a strong wind blowing 
 towards the shore, and towed her into the harbour 
 in great triumph. The loss of the Philadelphia un* 
 der such circumstances, was apparently an occur- 
 rence peculiarly disasterous and mortifying ; yet in 
 the sequel it gave rise to one of the most bold and 
 hazardous enterprizes of which there is any record 
 in the history of human transactions. 
 
 Not long after the capture of the Philadelphia fri- 
 gate, Lieut. Stephen Decatur, (now Commodore,) 
 who had arrived in the Mediterranean subsequently 
 to this event, projected a plan for her re-capture.— 
 The enterprise being submitted to Commodore Pre- 
 ble, he at first hesitated in giving his authority, con- 
 sidering it too imminently hazardous ; but finally as- 
 sented to it. The projector of the enterprise having 
 obtained the approbation of the commander of the 
 squadron, made immediate arrangements for carry- 
 ing it into effect. Accordingly, the ketch Intrepid, 
 lately captured by him, having a crew of seventy vol- 
 unteers, and the brig Syren, sailed from Syracuse, for 
 Tripoli, where they arrived after a passage of fifteen 
 days. It was near the close of the day when the 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 35 
 
 two vessels arrived off the harbour, and it was deter- 
 mined that at ten o'clock in the evening the attempt 
 should be made. The arrangement was, to have the 
 Intrepid, accompanied by the boats, enter the har- 
 bour, and the Syren to aid the boats, and to receive 
 the crew of the Intrepid, in case it should be found 
 expedient to make a fire ship of that vessel. A change 
 of wind, however, having separated the two vessels 
 several miles, and Lieutenant Decatur fearing that 
 delay might prove fatal to the enterprize, entered the 
 harbour alone, about eight o'clock. The Philadel- 
 phia, " fallen — but not disgraced," lay within half 
 gun shot of the Bashaw's castle, and the principal 
 battery ; two Tripolitan cruisers being within cable 
 length, upon the starboard quarter ; and within half 
 gun shot, on her starboard bow, were a number of 
 gun-boats. From the hghtness of the wind, with all 
 the exertions they could make, they had advanced 
 but three miles in the same number of hours. They 
 were hailed from the Philadelphia, when within 
 about two hundred yards, and were ordered to an- 
 chor, on peril of being fired into, the guns of the 
 Philadelphia being mounted and loaded. The reply 
 from the Intrepid was that all her anchors were lost ; 
 and in the mean time she continued to advance, until 
 within fifty yards of the frigate, when the wind dying 
 away. Lieutenant Decatur ordered a rope to be fas- 
 tened to the fore chains thereof, which being effect- 
 ed, the Intrepid was warped along side. Hitherto 
 
38 l^IPE <>F 
 
 the Tripolitans had been completely deceived as to 
 the character and designs of the vessel, and on discov- 
 ering that she was an enemy, they were thrown into 
 the greatest confusion and disorder. At this critic- 
 al moment, the gallant Decatur sprang on board the 
 Philadelphia, and was immediately followed by Mid- 
 shipman Morris, (now Capt. Morris.) It was a min- 
 ute or more, before any others of the crew succeed- 
 ed in getting on board the frigate, so that had not the 
 Tripolitans been in the greatest consternation, they 
 might at this critical conjuncture, have defeated the 
 enterprise •, and probably with the loss of the brave 
 officer who planned and conducted it. But destiny 
 ordered otherwise ; a better fate awaited these 
 brave and patriotic Americans. A considerable pro- 
 portion of the crew of the Intrepid were soon on 
 board the frigate ; which was decisive of the contest. 
 The Tripolitans were unable to withstand the des- 
 perate attack of the Americans ; they were immedi- 
 ately overpowered, and twenty of them killed. As 
 soon as it was perceived that the Americans had got 
 possession of the frigate, she was immediately fired 
 upon from the castle and battery, and the two cor- 
 sairs ; and a number of launches being observed to be 
 put in motion in the harbour, Lieutenant Decatur 
 thought it expedient to remain on hoard the frigate, 
 considering that the best situation for defence ; but 
 perceiving that the launches remained at a distance, 
 it was determined to leave the frigate and set her on 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 37 
 
 tire, which was eflfected with complete success, and 
 with entire safety, although the conflagration was so 
 rapid, that the Intrepid was imminently exposed ; 
 but being aided by a favourable wind, which at this 
 moment, almost providentially, sprang up, they suc- 
 ceeded in getting out of the harbour. In this bril- 
 liant affair the Americans did not sustain the loss of 
 a single man, and had only four wounded.* — The 
 novelty and boldness of this enterprise, the se- 
 crecy and success with which it was executed, and 
 the desperate courage which the Americans display- 
 ed, filled the Tripohtans with astonishment, and 
 gave them a most exalted opinion of the courage and 
 skill of American seamen. 
 
 After the destruction of the Philadelphia, Commo- 
 dore Preble employed the American squadron during 
 the following spring and a part of the summer, in 
 cruising, maintaining the blockade of the harbour of 
 Tripoli, and in making preparation for an attack up- 
 on the town, should circumstances render that meas- 
 ure necessary or expedient. His force was consid- 
 erably augmented, having put in commission a prize 
 vessel, called the Scourge ; and six gun-boats and 
 two bomb ships were obtained from the King of Na- 
 ples, and he was authorised to take a number of Nea- 
 politans into his service to man the gun boats. Af- 
 ter this addition, his force consisted of the following 
 vessels : the Constitution frigate of 44 guns ; the 
 
 ♦Naval History of the United State.*, 
 4 
 
o'ii LIFE or 
 
 brigs Argus, Syren and Scourge, the two former of 
 i 8 guns ; the schooners "Vixen, Nautilus and Enter- 
 prize ; six Gun Boats, each carrying a 26 brass poun- 
 der, and two Bomb-ketches. This force was united 
 under the Commodore on the 21st of July, 1804, off 
 the harbour of Tripoli. From the unfavourable state 
 of the weather, and the adverse course of the wind, 
 he was prevented from approaching the town until 
 the 28th, when the squadron anchored within two 
 and an half miles of the batteries ; but were soon 
 oblged to leave this station, the wind having risen 
 up, which soon increased to a gale. On the 3d of 
 August, the squadron again approached within about 
 the same distance of the fortifications. The Com- 
 modore observing that several of the Tripohtan boats 
 were without the reef of rocks which cover the en- 
 trance into the harbour, determined to take advan- 
 tage of this circumstance, and to make an immedi- 
 ate attack upon the shipping and batteries. He ac- 
 cordingly made signals for the different vessels of the 
 squadron to come within speaking distance, and 
 cj[)mmunicated to the several commanders his orders 
 of attack. The gun boats and bomb ketches were 
 immediately manned and prepared for action, the 
 former being arranged into three divisions, consisting 
 of three boats each. The signal for a general attack 
 was given at about three o'clock, P. M., which was 
 immediately commenced by the bomb ketches throw- 
 ing shells into the tow^n. The attack having been 
 commenced, it was immediately followed by the 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 39 
 
 most tremendous cannonade from the enemies bat- 
 teries and vessels in the harbour, both comprising 
 more than two hundred guns. The Bashaw's castle 
 and the batteries mounted one hundred and fifteen 
 guns, of which fifty-five were pieces of heavy ord- 
 nance ; the remainder long eighteen and twelve 
 pounders ; and there were nineteen gun boats, each 
 carrying a long twenty-four or eighteen pounder in 
 the bow, and two howitzers abaft ; two schooners of 
 eight guns each, a brig often, and two gallies of four 
 each, in the harbour. Besides the ordinary garrisons 
 and the crews of the vessels in the harbour, estima- 
 ted at three thousand, more than twenty thousand 
 Arabs had been collected for the defence of the town. 
 The cannonading from the batteries and vessels of 
 the enemy was immediately returned by the Ameri- 
 can squadron, which soon advanced within gun sho^ 
 of the batteries. Captain Stephen Decatur, com- 
 manding three gun boats, having made an attack up- 
 on nine gun boats of the enemy, forming their eastern 
 division, dashed in the midst of them, and a despe- 
 rate conflict, with bayonet, spear and sabre, soon en- 
 sued. Captain Decatur grappled a Tripolitan boat, 
 and boarded her with only fifteen men ; yet so reso- 
 lute and desperate was the attack, that in ten min- 
 utes, her decks were cleared, and her flag was down. 
 hi this affair three Americans were wounded. Cap- 
 tain Decatur, at this moment, being informed that 
 his brother, Lieutenant James Decatur, command- 
 
40 LIFE OF 
 
 ing gun boat, No. 1, having engaged and captured a 
 boat of the enemy, had been treacherously and mur- 
 derously shot by the Tripohtan commander, whilst 
 in the act of stepping on board of the captured ves- 
 sel, sailed immediately in pursuit of the murderer 
 of his brother. He soob discovered him retreating 
 within the lines, and succeeded in comming along 
 side, and immediately boarded, although he had but 
 eleven men with him. A desperate, and for a few 
 minutes, doubtful contest ensued. Decatur imme- 
 diately attacked the Tripolitan commander, who 
 was armed with a spear and cutlass. The Turk 
 thrust with his spear, which Decatur successfully 
 parried, until he broke his sword close to the hilt, 
 when he seized the spear, and immediately closed, 
 and after a most violent struggle, both fell, Decatur 
 being uppermost. The Tripolitan commander drew 
 a dagger from his belt, but was prevented from using 
 it, Decatur having seized his arm, and at the same 
 time drawing a pistol from his pocket, shot him dead. 
 This desperate rencountre between the two com- 
 manders, brought together both their crews for their 
 defence, and a desperate and bloody conflict com- 
 menced around them. So many had fallen, killed 
 and wounded, that it w^as with difficulty Decatur 
 could extricate himself, when the struggle had ceas- 
 ed between him and the Tripolitan commander.—- 
 This affair, whether we consider the motive which 
 impelled the commanding officer, the boldness of the 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 41 
 
 undertaking, the success with which it was executed, 
 the incident of the contest between the two com- 
 manders, or the heroic bravery which the Americans 
 displayed, is not surpassed in the annals of naval war- 
 fare. Decatur in his struggle with the Turk, was 
 slightly wounded in his right arm and breast : and 
 his men were all wounded but four. The life of 
 Decatur was in the most imminent danger, and was 
 saved by the interposition of one of his men, although 
 at the hazard of his own life ; which is an instance 
 of fidelity and attachment on the part of a seaman 
 to his commander, that has few examples, and which 
 cannot fail to challenge the highest admiration.— 
 During the struggle between Decatur and the Turk, 
 the former was attacked in the rear, the assailant 
 aiming a blow at his head, which must have proved 
 fatal, had not this heroic American tar, who was so 
 badly wounded himself as to be deprived of both of 
 his arms, rushed in between Decatur and the Tripoli- 
 tan, and exposed his own head to the falling sabre. 
 He received the stroke, which fractured bis skull, 
 but happily not so as to be fatal, and he survived to 
 receive the thanks and admiration of his command- 
 er and companions in the " bloody strife," and a pen- 
 sion from his grateful country. — Captain Decatur 
 secured the prize ; which, together with the tirst boat 
 he had captured, he conducted safely to the Ameri- 
 can squadron. 
 
 Another contest between an American boat and 
 4^ 
 
 4t 
 
12 LIFE OF 
 
 one ofthe enemies' occurred, which in some of its cir- 
 cumstances was similar to this, in which the comman- 
 der and crew of the former, displayed equal courage. 
 Lieut. Trippe, with only a midshipman and eleven 
 men, boarded a large boat of the enemy, manned 
 by thirty-six men, the American boat falHng off be- 
 fore any more of the crew could get on board. These 
 eleven men were thus placed in a situation where 
 there was no alternative but victory or death ; and 
 a victory over more than thrice their number. A 
 most desperate and unequal conflict ensued, the re- 
 sult of which for some time seemed doubtful ; but 
 the vast superiority of disciplined valour over barba- 
 rian force, soon discovered itself. The Tripolitans 
 were overcome, and with great slaughter, fourteen 
 being killed, and seven w ounded. All that survived 
 were made prisoners. During the action a personal 
 contest ensued between Lieutenant Trippe and the 
 Tripolitan commander ; the sword of the former 
 bending, he closed with his antagonist, and both fell. 
 Lieutenant Trippe wrested the Turk's sword from 
 his hand, and thrust it through his heart. 
 
 The American squadron, for more than two hours, 
 was exposed to the enemy's batteries, from which a 
 constant fire was maintained, being within grape shot 
 distance. But the damage which it sustained was 
 inconsiderable, viewed with reference to its expos- 
 ed situation. The Constitution was considerably in- 
 jured in her sails and rigging, and her main mast was 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 43 
 
 struck by a thirty-two pound ball. The other ves- 
 sels of the squadron sustained some injury in their rig- 
 ging, and had several men wounded ; but not a man 
 was killed during the whole engagement, excepting 
 Lieut. Decatur, already noticed. He was a young 
 officer of great promise, and deeply lamented. — 
 The enemy sustained a serious injury ; and what, 
 perhaps, was of more importance, the operations and 
 activity of the squadron, and the determined and des- 
 perate bravery which the Americans displayed, made 
 a most serious and salutary impression. The Tripo- 
 litans were astonished at what they had witnessed, 
 and could hardly believe the Americans to be men. 
 A number of their gun boats were captured, onboard 
 of all of which, were one hundred and three men, of 
 whom forty-seven were killed and twenty-six wound- 
 ed ; three boats were sunk, with all their men on 
 board ; many were killed and wounded on board the 
 vessels in the harbour, and on shore ; a number of 
 the guns of the batteries were dismounted, and the 
 town sustained considerable injury. 
 
 Commodore Preble, on the 5th August, sent twelve 
 of the wounded Tripolitans, who had had their 
 wounds dressed, and received every attention 
 which humanity could dictate, into Tripoli, by a 
 French privateer; and a letter, addressed to the min- 
 ister of the Bashaw. The representations of the re- 
 leased prisoners, contributed to increase the aston- 
 ishment with which the Americans were viewed. 
 
44 LIFE OF 
 
 They informed their sovereign that in battle, the 
 Americans were fiercer than lions, and in the treat- 
 ment of their prisoners more kind than even mussel- 
 men. The Bashaw, being destitute of sentiments of 
 humanity himself, could not conceive what had in- 
 duced the American commander to send in their 
 prisoners, but being informed that he had no other 
 motive than that of humanity, he professed to admire 
 so noble a principle of action ; and added, that if any 
 wounded Americans should fall into his hands, he 
 would in like manner restore them. But the sin- 
 cerity of this declaration is very questionable, inas- 
 much as he refused to release any of the crew of the 
 Philadelphia. Two days after, the Commodore re- 
 ceived a letter from the French consul, advising him 
 that he thought it probable the Bashaw would treat 
 upon more reasonable terms ; yet the terms intima- 
 ted were not such as the Commodore felt either au- 
 thorised or willing to accept, and he accordingly 
 made preparations for a second attack upon the town. 
 The action commenced at half past two, and in two 
 hours, one of the batteries, which mounted seven 
 guns, had six of them silenced by our gun boats. — 
 During the action, numerous shells were thrown into 
 the town from the bomb ketches, which had taken a 
 station in a bay west of the city, where they were 
 but little exposed, and about five hundred round shot 
 were thrown into the town and batteries. One of 
 the gun boats taken from the Tripolitans in the first 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 45 
 
 attack, was blown up by a hot shot passing through 
 her magazine : of twenty-eight men which she had 
 on board, ten were killed and five wounded ; the 
 other twelve w^ere saved, having jumped overboard 
 the instant the explosion took place, and were taken 
 up by another boat. 
 
 On the 1 0th, a aegociation was proposed by the 
 Bashaw. He offered to release the American pris- 
 oners for five hundred dollars each, amounting in all 
 to about one hundred and fifty thousand dollars, to 
 put an end to the war, and to renounce tribute, or 
 an annuity, as the price of maintaining peace. 
 These terms were rejected ; but, from a regard to 
 the lives and liberty of the unfortunate captives who, 
 in case no accommodation should take place, were 
 exposed to the certain loss of the latter, if not of the 
 former, he offered eighty thousand dollars as a ran- 
 som for all the prisoners, and ten thousand as pres- 
 ents. This offer was not accepted by the Bashaw, 
 and the negociation ended. — Commodore Preble im- 
 mediately made arrangements for another attack up- 
 on the town, which commenced on the night of the 
 23d of August. It was conducted with the same 
 boldness and spirit which characterised all the ope- 
 rations of the American squadron. On the 27th, the 
 gun boats, aided by several of the small vessels, an- 
 noyed the shipping in the harbour, and kept up a 
 brisk fire upon the town and batteries, which was 
 warmly returned. In the height of the engagement 
 
46 LIFE OP 
 
 the Constitution fired a broadside at thirteen of the 
 enemy's gun boats and gallies which were engaged 
 with the American boat?, and sunk one of them, dis- 
 abled two, and dispersed the rest. The Commo- 
 dore then run within musket shot of the batteries, 
 and commenced a Hvely cannonade upon them and 
 the town, during which there was fired from the 
 Constitution three hundred round shot, besides grape 
 and cannister ; and four hundred round shot were 
 fired from the gun boats. The Bashaw's castle and 
 two of the batteries were silenced ; and considera- 
 ble damage was done to the town, many houses hav- 
 ing been seriously injured, and several lives lost. A 
 thirty-six pound shot penetrated the castle, and en- 
 tered the apartment of the prisoners. 
 
 Negociations for peace were immediately renew- 
 ed after this attack, by the French consul ; but pro- 
 duced nothing satisfactory. The American squadron 
 was employed for a few days in repairing the dama- 
 ges sustained in the last engagement, and in prepar- 
 ing for another attack, which was made on the third 
 of September. The result of this attack was similar 
 to the last ; several of the enemy's batteries having 
 been silenced, and considerable injury done to the 
 town. The American squadron, however, was more 
 injured than in any of the former attacks, although 
 not a man was lost. One of the bomb vessels had 
 all her shrouds shot aAvay, and was so severely in- 
 jured in her hull that she could scarcely be kept 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 47 
 
 above water; and the Argus received a thirty-two 
 pound shot in her hull, but did httle injury, having 
 struck a lower cable, which so completely destroyed 
 its force that it fell harmless upon the deck. 
 
 For some time Commodore Preble had meditated 
 sending a fire ship into the harbour, to attempt to 
 burn the flotilla, and injure and terrify the town. 
 For this difficult and imminently hazardous under- 
 taking. Captain Somers volunteered his services, and 
 with the assistance of Lieutenants Wadsworth and 
 Israel, fitted out the ketch Intrepid, for the expedi- 
 tion ; one hundred barrels of gun-powder and one 
 hundred and fifty shells having been placed in the 
 hold, and fusees and combustibles applied in such a 
 manner as to make the explosion sure, without pre- 
 venting a retreat. Every thing being prepared, on 
 the evening of the 4th of September, about eight 
 o'clock, the fire ship, accompanied by two fast row- 
 ing boats, designed to bring oiF the men after the ship 
 should be set on fire, stood into the harbour, being 
 convoyed by the Argus, Vixen and Nautilus, to with- 
 in a short distance from the batteries. Having en- 
 tered the inner harbour and approached to near the 
 place of destination, the fire ship was boarded by 
 two gallies of one hundred men each, being such a 
 vast superiority of force as rendered all resistance 
 unavailing. Immediately upon this, the explosion 
 look place, which produced an effect that would de- 
 fy the powers of the boldest imagination to describe. 
 
48 i^iiE OP 
 
 The scene was awfully sublime. The report was 
 most tremendous, and the consternation and confu- 
 sion which it occasioned, were augmented by the 
 suddenness of it, the time, and other circumstances 
 attending it ; being the silent hour of night, when 
 " creation sleeps." An awful pause ensued. The 
 engines of human destruction, as if satisfied with the 
 immense sacrifice of a single moment, ceased. The 
 batteries were silenced, and not a gun was fired dur- 
 ing the remainder of the night. But the cause of 
 explosion is a matter of the greatest importance and 
 astonishment. It is supposed that Captain Somers, 
 perceiving no alternative but ignominious slavery, or 
 death, resolved upon the latter, and with his own 
 hands, set fire to the fatal train, which in an in- 
 stant, identified his own and his companions' fate 
 with that of their enemies, all meeting a common 
 death. An act of such desperate courage as this, is 
 hardly to be found in the history of human transac- 
 tions. This closed the operations of Commodore 
 Preble, being suspended in his command, by the ar- 
 rival, a few days after, of a reinforcement, consist- 
 ing of four frigates, under the command of Commo- 
 dore Barron, who was a senior officer. 
 
 When this reinforcement left America, the govern- 
 ment was not informed of the active and brilliant op- 
 erations of Commodore Preble ; yet a senior offi- 
 cer was not sent out from any want of confidence 
 in the gallant Preble, but from the difficulty of ob- 
 
OLIVER U. PERRY. 4S 
 
 taining Captains to command the four frigates who 
 were juniors to him. 
 
 After this brief view of his operations, it can hard- 
 ly be necessary to add that they were, not only in 
 the United States but in Europe, considered as 
 highly honourable to himself and his country. — On 
 Commodore Barron's taking the command of the 
 squadron, Commodore Preble returned to the Uni- 
 ted States, where he received the most distinguished 
 attention, and numerous testimonialsof the applause 
 and approbation of his countrymen. Congress adop- 
 ted a resolution, tendering him their thanks, and di- 
 recting the President to present him with an em- 
 blematical medal. Such were the efforts of our in- 
 fant navy, and such the school in which Perry, and 
 most of our present naval officers were instructed. 
 While all the great powers of Europe were submit^ 
 ting to insult and injury, and to pay tribute to the 
 states of Barbary, the world beheld with astonish- 
 ment, an infant nation, exhibiting so distinguished an 
 example of chastisement to these barbarous and fe- 
 rocious nations. 
 
 The Americans being determined to compel the 
 Bashaw to liberate their countrymen, and agree to 
 reasonable terms of accommodation, resolved upon 
 prosecuting the war by land as well as by sea.— 
 General Eaton, who had been consul at Tunis 
 since 1 797, having returned to America in 1 804, dis- 
 closed to the government the bold enterprise of at 
 5 
 
50 LIFE OP 
 
 tempting the restoration of the Ex-Bashaw of Tri- 
 poh, (who had been deprired of the government by 
 his brother,) and having obtained the necessary au- 
 thority, he embarked, in July the same year, in the 
 brig Argus, for the Mediterranean. He arrived at 
 Alexandria on the 26th November, and ascertaining 
 that the Ex-Bashaw was in upper Egypt with the 
 Mamelukes, who were then at war with the Turkish 
 government, he proceeded from thence to Grand Cai- 
 ro, where he arrived on the 8th of December. — 
 On the 8th of January, General Eaton received an 
 answer from the Ex-Bashaw, to the letter he had ad- 
 dressed to him, upon the subject of his enterprise ; 
 and immediately repaired, accompanied by Lieut. 
 Blake, Mr. Mann, and twenty-three armed men, to 
 the place appointed by him for an interview, being 
 about 1 90 miles from the sea-coast. At the distance, 
 however, of about 70 miles, they were stopped by a 
 detachment of Turkish troops ^ the commander ob- 
 stinately refusing to permit the General and his par- 
 ty to proceed. But he finally consented to send for 
 the Ex-Bashaw, who in a short time arrived with his 
 followers. The result of this interview was, that 
 General Eaton returned to Alexandria, whither he 
 arrived about the middle of February ; and from a 
 difficulty of the Ex-Bashaw's embarking at that place, 
 it was decided to march by land through the desert, 
 to Derne, which place they designed to attack. Ac- 
 cordingly, having collected four or five hundred 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 51 
 
 men, the principal part of which were Arabs, there 
 being less than one hundred christians, on the 6th of 
 March, General Eaton and the Ex-Bashaw commen- 
 ced their march. Their provisions and baggage 
 were carried bj Camels, of which they had about 
 one hundred. The march through the desert was 
 one peculiarly difficult and distressing. On the 16th 
 they arrived at Bomba ; and on the 21st of April, 
 General Eaton, with his singular army, was in the 
 neighbourhood of the city of Derne. He ascertain- 
 ed that an army which had been sent by the reign- 
 ing Bashaw from Tripoli, to oppose him, was within 
 fourteen hours march. Perceiving that he had no 
 time to lose, on the following day he demanded of 
 the Governor of Derne, the surrender of the 
 place ; and received the following answer, which is 
 characteristic of the sense of accountability felt by 
 Turkish officers : " my head or yours." The next 
 day the place was attacked, and surrendered after a 
 warm contest of two or three hours. The loss of 
 the assailants was considerable, one third of the 
 christians being either killed or wounded. Having 
 obtained possession of the city, General Eaton com- 
 menced fortifying it, and otherwise making prepara- 
 tions to meet the Tripolitan army, which was hourly 
 expected. It arrived, and commenced an attack 
 upon the town on the 18th ; and after a severe en- 
 gagement of four hours, the assailants gave way, and 
 retreated to their camp. — No further operations of 
 
dS LIFE or 
 
 any importance took place until tli(e 28th, when Gen- 
 «ral Eaton, with about forty men, Americans and 
 Greeks, made a sortie from the town, and fell upon a 
 party of the enemy, consisting of about one hundred 
 men, returning from a depredatory excursion, who 
 made little resistance, and were pursued to within a 
 short distance of their camp. In this affair the Amer- 
 icans sustained no loss, and returned safely to their 
 fortifications, the enemy not making any attempt to 
 intercept them. On the 10th a second attack was 
 made upon the town ; and although the enemy dis- 
 played more obstinacy and perseverance than in the 
 first, the result was equally disastrous. The ac- 
 tion continued, with the greatest warmth, for more 
 than four hours, when the enemy was thrown into 
 disorder, and obliged to retreat. The next day the 
 Constellation appeared in the harbour ; and on her 
 being discovered by the Tripolitans they were 
 thrown into the greatest confusion and dismay • 
 they broke up their camp, and leaving most of their 
 heavy baggage behind, sought safety in flight. The 
 operations and views of General Eaton were in a 
 short time after this, arrested by the conclusion of a 
 treaty of peace, and accommodation of differences, 
 between the United States and the Regency of Tri- 
 poli. — It has generally been considered that this 
 treaty was premature, as there was every reason to 
 believe that if General Eaton had been left to per- 
 siie the operations he had in contemplation, he 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 53 
 
 would have compelled the Bashaw to have agreed 
 to terms altogether more favorable, if not forced him 
 to unconditional submission. — Here ended the Tri- 
 politan war — a war characterised by many impor- 
 tant incidents, and which disclosed, on the part of 
 the Americans, as bold a spirit of enterprise, as many 
 heroic achievements, and instances of as determined 
 and desperate personal bravery, as are to be found 
 in the like compass of events in the records of hu= 
 man wars. 
 
54 LIFE OF 
 
 CHAPTER III. 
 
 The embarrassment of our commerce — the restrictive measures-^ 
 employmeyit nf the navy in consequence thereof— Perry com' 
 mands a JiotUla of gtin boats — is transfered to the Revenge- 
 assists the Diana in distress— loss of the Revenge — declaration 
 qfivar — state of the navy at that time — Perry appointed to 
 command a flotilla of gun boats—is transfered to the Lakes 
 — capture of Caledonia and Detroit— capture of York — Perry 
 ordered to superintend the huilding a feet at Erie— haves 
 there to asssist in the attack upon Fort George — vessels 
 built at Erie got over the bar — Perry sails with the squadron^ 
 and retires to Put-in-Bay — preceding events of the nar upon 
 the northwestern frontier — General Hull's army — his ivasion 
 of Canada — the employment of the Indians by the British— 
 HulVs retreat and capitulation — General Harrison's cam' 
 paign — defeat of General ffinchester—Fort Meigs — Col. Dud' 
 ley's defeat — gallant defence of Fort Stephenson, 
 
 After the close of the TripoHtan war, in the 
 year 1805, a period of several years ensued, in which 
 the annals of our navy occupy but little space, and 
 comprise no events of much importance, with the 
 exception of the unfortunate outrage committed upon 
 the Chesapeake frigate, in 1807, which produced a 
 sensation that electrified the whole continent. The 
 United States being at peace during this period, its 
 marine force could not, of course, be employed in 
 any belhgerant enterprizes, nor for the protection of 
 
OLIVER H. PERRF. 55 
 
 the commerce of the country. Nothing, however, 
 but the nominal existence of peace with the two 
 great beUigerants of Europe, could have prevented 
 its having been used for the latter object ; for, from 
 the conclusion of the Tripolitan war, to the com- 
 mencement of the war with Great-Britain, in 1812, 
 a period of seven years, the commerce of the Uni- 
 ted States was constantly subjected to the most se- 
 rious embarrassments, and the most unwarrantable 
 seizures and condemnations from Great-Britain, and 
 a part of this period from France. In the summer 
 of 1805, Great-Britain adopted, (and the command- 
 ers of her vessels were instructed accordingly,) the 
 rule of war of 1756, which regards all trade carried 
 on by a neutral, with the colonies of a belligerant, 
 during war, which was not permitted by the bellige- 
 rant nation during peace, as illegal. Under this 
 rule, of which no previous notice had been given, 
 the commerce of the United States was arrested — 
 vessels and property, to an immense amount, were 
 seized, carried into British ports and condemned ; 
 nothwithstanding their courts of admiralty, had pre- 
 viously, in the most explicit manner, disallowed this 
 rule, and thereby legalized and sanctioned this de- 
 scription of commerce. This unjust and hostile 
 conduct on the part of Great-Britain, produced a 
 sentiment of indignation throughout the United 
 States, particularly with the mercantile part of the 
 community. Meetings were holden in most of out 
 
56 
 
 LIFE OF 
 
 commercial towns, and memorials presented to Con- 
 gress, urging that body to adopt such energetic and 
 decisive measures as would be most likely to obtain 
 redress. In the Senate of the United States, a Res- 
 olution was adopted, declaring the seizure and con- 
 demnation of American vessels under the aforesaid 
 rule, by Great-Britain, as an unprovoked ag2!;ression 
 upon the property of the citizens of the United 
 States, and a violation of our neutral rights. A law 
 was also adopted, prohibiting the importation from 
 Great-Britain into the United States, of certain im- 
 portant articles, the manufactures of that country. 
 This act, v.hich was passed on the 18th of April, 
 1806, was not to go into operation until the 15th of 
 November following ; it not being intended as a mea- 
 sure of hostility, but to aid negociation. These 
 measures, evincive alike of our sense of aggression 
 and of justice, produced, however, no favourable ef- 
 fect upon the conduct of Great-Britain. Instead of 
 being induced, by a respect for the sensibility which 
 we manifested to our own wrongs, our love of jus- 
 tice, and a disposition to prevent, if possible, an in- 
 terruption of existing amicable relations, to abandon 
 her unjust pretensions, she advanced others equally 
 novel and unjust, thereby adding injury to injury. In 
 May, 1SJ6, under the administration of the celebra- 
 ted Charles James Fox, she declared the coast of 
 France, Holland and Germany, from Brest to the 
 Elbe, an extent of about 700 miUs, in a state of 
 blockade. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY J7 
 
 In November follewing, the decree of Berlin was 
 adopted by the Emperor of France, in retaliation 
 upon Great-Britain for this novel and unjustifiable 
 measure. This decree was followed by the British 
 Orders in Council, of November 11th, 1807; and 
 those by the Imperial Decree, of December ITth, 
 1807. From these extraordinary measures of the 
 two great belligerant powers, all of which violated 
 the most established rights of neutrals, the commerce 
 of the United States, then the only neutral nation, 
 with the exception of Sweden, was exposed to have 
 been almost entirely sacrificed. Under this unex- 
 ampled and extraordinary state of the commercial 
 world, the law establishing an embargo, was passed 
 on the 23d December, 1 807, as the only means cal- 
 culated to save our commerce from this legalized 
 system of depredation and piracy ; which must have 
 swept it from the ocean, as with the besom of de- 
 struction. This measure, although a very necessary 
 and wise one at the time it was adopted, whatever 
 may be thought of the policy of continuing it as long 
 as was done, was one, however, extremely difficult 
 to enforce, and which required the application of all 
 the naval means within the controul of the govern- 
 ment. 
 
 The spirit of commercial enterprise and cupidity, 
 for which our citizens are distinguished, could not 
 brook so entire a restraint. And the difficulties 
 which from this and other causes, would be likely at 
 
LIFE OP 
 
 all periods to attend the enforcement of a measure 
 of this description, were at this time greatly increas- 
 ed from the political state of the country ; this meas- 
 ure experiencing a decided and systematic opposition 
 from one of the two great political parties by which 
 the United States was then unhappily divided. Un- 
 der these circumstances it required, on the part of 
 the government, the utmost vigilance, and the em- 
 ployment of its whole naval means to enforce this 
 measure. With reference to this object, an impor- 
 tant service was assigned to Lieutenant Perry. — • 
 Soon after the embargo was adopted in 1808, he was 
 appointed to the command of a flotilla of seventeen 
 gun boats, on the Newport station ; in which service 
 he continued until 1810, when he was appointed to 
 the command of the United States' schooner Re- 
 venge, attached to the squadron of Commodore Ro- 
 gers, then laying at New-London. During a cruise of 
 the Revenge the same year, he rendered very signal 
 services to the ship Diana, of Wiscasset, being in 
 distress, off the coast of Georgia. The prompt and 
 effectual assistance which he afforded this vessel, 
 was duly appreciated by her commander and own- 
 ers, from whom Perry received a letter of approba- 
 tion and thanks, expresed in the most flattering terms, 
 and requesting that the same might be forwarded 
 with his dispatches to the Secretary of the Navy. — 
 In January, 1811, the Revenge, whilst returning 
 from Newport to New-London, under the command 
 
OLIVER H. PEHRY. 59 
 
 of Lieutenant Perry, was unfortunately lost near the 
 mouth of the Pawcatuck river, in Rhode-Island, hav- 
 ing struck upon a reef of rocks off Watch-Hill, and 
 in a few hours went to pieces. This accident was 
 occasioned by a fog, which was so thick as to envel- 
 ope all on board the Revenge in almost total dark- 
 ness, and was accompanied with a heavy swell. 
 There was a pilot on board, but being unable to dis- 
 cover their situation, it was impossible to do any 
 thing for the safety of the vessel. But the presence 
 of mind, and judicious and successful exertions of 
 Lieutenant Perry, after the disaster, in saving the 
 men and the property from the wreck, did him great 
 credit and honour. The sails, rigging, the principal 
 part of the cannon, and almost every article of any 
 value, were saved. At Perry's own request a 
 Court of enquiry was instituted, to examine into his 
 conduct in this occurrence ; which, after a full in- 
 vestigation of all the facts, pronounced his conduct 
 to be not only free from censure, but highly merito- 
 rious. His judgment and activity in the means em- 
 ployed to save the crew and property, and his cool 
 intrepidity on the occasion, were a subject of the 
 highest admiration, and contributed in no small de^ 
 gree, to raise the estimation in which he was held 
 by the government. 
 
 The embargo so far as it was regarded as a meas- 
 ure of coercion, from the difficulty of its enforcement 
 &r other causes, not having produced the expected ef 
 
60 LIFE OF 
 
 fects, and from the violent opposition which it expe- 
 rienced, was revoked in March, 1809, and followed 
 by the non-intercourse law ; a measure which pro- 
 duced little or no change in the application and em- 
 ployment of the naval force of the United States. — 
 The operations of this law were subsequently sus- 
 pended as it respected France, by the proclamation 
 of the President, pursuant to a provision of the law ; 
 but it continued in force against Great-Britain. 
 
 These several measures, evincing at the same time 
 on the part of the United States, a determination 
 not to submit to a violation of their rights, a spir- 
 it of moderation and forbearance, and a disposition 
 lo prevent, if possible, an entire interruption of the 
 amicable relations which were still, at least nomi- 
 nally, maintained between the two countries, entire- 
 ly failing of inducing Great-Britain, either from a 
 sense of justice, respect for her own character, or 
 the inconveniences to which they subjected her, to 
 cease her aggressions, and respect the commercial 
 rights of the United States, and after all hopes of ob- 
 taining this object by negociation, had long since ex- 
 pired ; as the last resort of injured nations, the Con- 
 gress of the United States, on the 1 8th of June, 1812, 
 declared war against the United Kingdom of Great- 
 Britain and Ireland. 
 
 This measure, important in every point of view, 
 was perhaps the most so, as it respected the navy of 
 the United States. Bv the enemy, (if any reliance 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 61 
 
 is to be placed upon their public journals,) and many 
 of our own citizens, it was regarded as the presage 
 of its annihilation ; and it was believed in the course 
 of the war, the American flag would be swept from 
 the ocean. 
 
 During the rupture with France, and subsequent- 
 ly, in the war with Tripoli, of which a succinct ac- 
 count has been given in this work, our navy had been 
 distinguished by many gallant and heroic exploits, 
 and acquired much reputation ; but very few, if any 
 of the officers or seamen belonging to it at this peri- 
 od, had ever encountered the self-styled " lords of 
 THE OCEAN," who, from their naval superiority over 
 all the powers of Europe, the result of numerous 
 wars, and many splendid victories, during a period of 
 more than a century, had adopted the principle, that 
 
 •♦ The wind and seas are Britain's wide domain. 
 And not a sail but by permission spreads." 
 
 At the commencement of the war, the navy of 
 the United States, according to the official report of 
 the Secretary of the navy, made a few months pre- 
 ceding, consisted of the following vessels : the Con- 
 stitution frigate of 44 guns ; President 44, cost 
 ^220,910 ;* United States 44 ; Congress 36 ; Essex 
 32, cost gl39,362 ; ships John Adams, 20, cost 
 
 *The e«vtimated expence of building and equipping for actu- 
 al service, of vessels of war, of (he larger size ; ships of the line 
 and the larger class of frigate^ is 4,500 dollars per gun. Those 
 ofsmaller rates cost less per gun. 
 
b^ LIFE OF 
 
 gl 13,500 ; Wasp 16 ; Hornet 12 ; brigs Argus, 16 j 
 Nautilus 16; Vixen 14; Enterprise 14; Syren 16; 
 Viper 10; Oneida, (on Lake Ontario,) 16. The 
 foregoing were in actual service. — The following 
 were laid up in ordinary : Chesapeake 36 guns, 
 original cost g220,677 ; Constellation 36, cost 
 314,21 2 ;* the New- York 36, original cost, gl 59,639 ; 
 Adams 32, cost g76,622 ; Boston 32, cost gl 19,570. 
 Some of these, particularly the New- York and the 
 Boston, were in such a decayed condition as to ren- 
 der it doubtful whether they were worth repairing, 
 and it is believed the two last named were not re- 
 paired. In addition to the aforesaid vessels of war- 
 the United States had 165 Gun Boats; of which 
 65 were in commission, 93 in ordinary, and 7 
 under repairs. 
 
 That, in a contest between a nation possessing so 
 inconsiderable a marine as this, and one which claim- 
 ed the dominion of the seas, and boasted of its thou- 
 sand ships of war, the former had every thing to fear 
 and nothing to expect, as to naval enterprise and 
 operations, would have been an opinion very natural 
 and apparently, very just. The result, however, 
 was otherwise. The enterprise, activity, skill, brave- 
 ry and success of the infant navy of the United States, 
 
 *The Constellation, although mounting bnt 36 guns, cost near- 
 ly 100,000 dollars noore than the President of 44. This wai 
 owing to the fornaer having been built when we had but little 
 experience on the BMbject of hnilding and equipping vessels of 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 63 
 
 was without any example, and the naval events of 
 the war, without scarcely an exception, were not 
 only highly creditable to the skill and courage of 
 American seamen, but reflected the greatest honour 
 upon the national character. Although all our na- 
 val officers, who had an opportunity of " meeting 
 the enemy," acquitted themselves with great credit, 
 and sustained the honour of the American flag ; yet 
 no one contributed so much to the honour and glory 
 of the war, as the subject of this work — the gallant 
 and lamented Perry. 
 
 The first service in which Perry was employed, af- 
 ter the commencement of the war, was that of the 
 command of a flotilla of gun boats, stationed at New- 
 port. He continued in this service for several 
 months, in the summer and autumn of 1 8 1 2 ; but be- 
 ing desirous of a more active situation, and one 
 which might be likely to afford more opportunities 
 for a display of his skill and courage, and to acquire 
 honourable fame — the only object of private ambi- 
 tion, which is consistent with the character of a he- 
 ro, he solicited and obtained permission to join our 
 naval forces on the Lakes, under the command of 
 Commodore Chauncey. Accordingly, he repaired 
 to Sackett's Harbour, on Lake Ontario, where he 
 joined Commodore Chauncey. 
 
 At an early period after the commencement of the 
 war, the government perceived the importance of 
 securing the command of the Western Lakes ; and 
 
to i LIFE OF 
 
 in October, 1812, Commodore Chauncey, who had 
 been designated for that service, proceeded with 
 about 700 seamen, and about 150 marines, to Lake 
 Ontario. A large number of ship builders and car- 
 penters, had previously gone on, and the greatest 
 activity was displayed in building and fitting out a 
 naval force, which might give us the dominion of 
 Lake Ontario. The season, however, being far ad- 
 vanced, no naval operations of any importance took 
 place on that Lake, this year. On Lake Erie, the 
 British, after the unfortunate surrender of General 
 Hull, had undisputed command, the American brig 
 Adams, afterwards called the Detroit, having fallen 
 into their hands. On the 7th of October subse- 
 quently to this event, the British brigs Detroit and 
 Caledonia, the former manned by fifty-six men, and 
 having thirty American prisoners on board, and the 
 latter having a crew of twelve men, with ten prison- 
 ers on board, came down the Lake and anchored 
 under the protection of Fort Erie. This being ob- 
 served by Lieut. Elliot, who was then at Buffalo, 
 fitting out some vessels which he had purchased for 
 the public service upon Lake Erie, he determined 
 to attack, and if possible, get possession of them. 
 
 Lieut. Elliot, having collected a force of about 
 one hundred men, more than half of which were 
 sailors, who had arrived the same day, and were fa= 
 tigued with a march of more than five hundred miles. 
 liad them, about 4 o'clock in the afternoon, station- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY, 6t} 
 
 ed in two boats, which he had prepared for this en- 
 terprise. The boats under the command of Lieu- 
 tenant ElHot, put off from the mouth of Buffalo 
 Creek at one o'clock the moring following, and in 
 about two hours were along side of the British ves- 
 sels, which were immediately boarded and captured. 
 In ten minutes, Lieutenant Elliot had all the prison- 
 ers secured, and the vessels under way. But unfor- 
 tunately the wind not being sufficiently strong to en- 
 able them to ascend the rapid current into the Lake, 
 they were obliged to run down the river, passing the 
 enemy's forts, whereby they were exposed to a se- 
 vere fire from a number of pieces of heavy ordnance, 
 and several pieces of flying artillery ; and were com- 
 pelled to anchor within four hundred yards of two of 
 their batteries. Having secured the Caledonia in 
 as safe a position as circumstances would allow, un- 
 der one of our batteries, at Black Rock, the fire of 
 the enemy was returned from the Detroit, and con- 
 tinued as long as circumstances and their ammunition 
 would admit. Being unable to withstand the ene- 
 my's fire, Lieutenant Elliot, determined to drift 
 down the river, out of the reach of the batteries, 
 and to make a stand against their flying artillery. 
 This was attempted, but having been abandoned by 
 their pilot, the Detroit was run ashore on Squaw 
 Island. Upon this the boarding boats were got rea- 
 dy, and the prisoners sent ashore. A few minutes 
 after, a boat with forty men was discovered from the 
 
66 
 
 LIFE OF 
 
 British side making for the brig. They succeeded 
 in getting an board, but were soon compelled to 
 abandon her, with the loss of a great proportion of 
 their number. The Detroit was then abandoned, 
 and afterwards burnt by the Americans, the princi- 
 pal part of her stores and guns having been saved. 
 
 During the winters of 1812 — 13, great exertions 
 were made at Sackett's Harbour to build and tit out 
 a naval force which might ensure the command of 
 Lake Ontario the ensuing season ; the importance 
 of which, as to the security of that frontier, and the 
 operations of the Americans, was most apparent. — 
 The British having on the 22d February, crossed the 
 river and succeeded in capturing Ogdensburgh, con- 
 siderable anxiety was felt for the safety of Sackett's 
 Harbour, and the American shipping and naval stores 
 at that place. Measures were immediately adopted 
 for its security ; but the enemy did not attempt this 
 enterprise, and soon after re-crossed the river. — 
 Eearly in the spring arrangements were made by 
 General Dearborn, who had the command of the 
 American army, for active operations, and the inva- 
 sion of Canada. 
 
 On the 19th of April, being soon after the ice had 
 disappeared, the Growler sailed from Sackett's Har- 
 bour, to reconnoiter the Lake ; which appearing to 
 be clear, arrangements were immediately made for 
 embarking the troops, which however did not take 
 place until the 23d 5 and in consequence of the un- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 67 
 
 favourable state of the weather, the fleet did not sail 
 until two days after. The number of troops which 
 embarked was about 1700, under the command of 
 General Dearborn. — On the morning of the 27th 
 the fleet, with the boats containing the troops, arri- 
 ved off York, the capital of Upper Canada, where 
 the boats left the fleet, and took a position to the 
 south and west of the principal fort of the enemy, 
 with a view to the debarkation of the troops, which 
 immediately commenced, and was completed about 
 10 o'clock in the forenoon. The boats having fal- 
 len to the leward before the landing was effected, 
 which in some measure prevented the debarkation 
 being covered by the fleet, the troops were exposed 
 to a severe fire from the enemy's forces posted in a 
 thick wood, near the place of landing. The rifle- 
 men, commanded by Major Forsyth, landed first, and 
 were exposed to a heavy fire from the whole of the 
 enemy's forces, consisting of about 700 regulars and 
 militia, and 100 Indians, commanded by General 
 SheafFe, which had been concentrated to oppose their 
 landing. A warm and severe contest was maintain- 
 ed for some time, under circumstances peculiarly dis- 
 advantageous to the Americans, who displayed the 
 greatest coolness and intrepidity. Seven or eight 
 hundred of the infantry, under the command of Gen- 
 eral Pike, having succeeded in effecting a landing, 
 and the remainder of the troops approaching the 
 shore, the enemy gave way, and retreated to their 
 
68 LIFE OF 
 
 fortifications, leaving a number of their killed and 
 wounded upon the field. It was intended to make a 
 simultaneous attack upon the fortifications, with the 
 land and naval forces. Accordingly, the schooners, 
 as soon as the troops were landed, took a position 
 near the forts. The troops having been formed by 
 General Pike, immediately advanced towards the 
 batteries, which opened a heavy fire upon them ; 
 which was returned by the schooners, whose position 
 at this time was within about 600 yards of the prin- 
 cipal fort.* The determined and intrepid manner in 
 which the troops were led on by the brave General 
 Pike, overcome all opposition. Two redoubts were 
 immediately carried, and they were approaching to 
 the principal work, when a dreadful explosion took 
 place, by which many of the Americans were killed 
 and wounded ; and among the number their com- 
 manding General — the brave and gallant Pike, an 
 accomplished otiicer, and a zealous patriot. He 
 fell in the moment of victory, the result of his own 
 counsels and valour. He was endeared to the sol- 
 dier, and respected by the citizen. His name will 
 be as immortal in the annals of his country as is the 
 event with which his fall was identified. 
 
 This explosion was the result of design, the ene- 
 my having previously laid a train for the purpose of 
 blowing up their magazine, in case they should be 
 obliged to abandon their works. — General Dearborn 
 being informed of the fall of Pike, immediately land 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 69 
 
 •edand took the command of the troops. After the 
 explosion of the magazine, the enemy, having pre- 
 viously set fire to their naval stores, and a ship on 
 the stocks, retreated with the greatest precipitation, 
 excepting the militia, which were surrendered to the 
 captors, with the town. The number surrendered 
 was about three hundred. Articles of capitulation 
 having been entered into with the commanding officer 
 of the militia. General Sheaffe having fled with the 
 regulars, before two o'clock in the afternoon the 
 American flag was waving in the capital of Upper 
 Canada. 
 
 The loss of the Americans in landing, and the at- 
 tack upon the town, was 52 killed, and 264 wound- 
 ed, of which 38 of the former, and 232 of the latter 
 were by the explosion. — The British in their official 
 account, acknowledged a loss of 62 killed, 34 woun- 
 ded, 43 wx)unded and prisoners, and 17 prisoners and 
 missing. — This estimate of their loss, however, must 
 have been confined to the regulars, as nearly 300 
 militia were surrendered as prisoners. — The rest of 
 the day was employed in burying the dead. Such 
 of the military stores as could not be brought away, 
 were destroyed, and likewise the barracks and pub- 
 lic buildings, it being determined to evacuate the 
 place, which was done by the first of May, the mili- 
 lia prisoners having been paroled, and the troops 
 embarked ; but the fleet owing to contrary winds, 
 did not sail until the 8th day ; on the afternoon of 
 which, they arrived at Four Mile Creek, below fort 
 
70 LIFE OF 
 
 Niagara, where the troops were disembarked, and 
 the public property landed. On the 9th, two Schoon- 
 ers, with one hundred men, sailed for the head of 
 the Lake, to seize a quantity of public stores ; which 
 they succeeded in doing, and brought them away, 
 although the property was guarded by about 80 reg- 
 ulars, which were repulsed, and the public buildings 
 burnt. The schooners having effected their object, 
 returned to fort Niagara. 
 
 On the 10th, Commodore Chauncey sailed for 
 Sackett's harbour, where he arrived on the 13th. — ■ 
 Having received 350 troops on board, he sailed for 
 fort Niagara, and arrived on the 25th, and landed 
 the troops. General Dearborn immediately held a 
 council of officers, to make the necessary arrange- 
 ments for crossing to the British side •, and the fol- 
 lowing day, Chauncey reconnoitered the position for 
 landing the troops ; and having at night sounded near 
 the shore, he placed buoys to designate the stations 
 for the small vessels. All the heavy artillery, and 
 as many of the troops as could be accommodated, 
 were taken on board of the Madison, Oneida and La- 
 dy of the Lake ; the rest of the troops were embark- 
 ed on board of the boats. — On the 27th, at three in 
 the morning, the fleet sailed, and the boats followed 
 agreeably to directions. The schooners having ta- 
 ken judicious positions for that purpose, opened a 
 fire upon the enemy's batteries, which in ten minutes 
 were silenced and abandoned. Their situation also 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 71 
 
 enabled them to cover the landing of the troops, 
 which was effected near one of the forts which had 
 been silenced at Two Mile Creek. The enemy were 
 not discovered at the landing of the troops, being con- 
 cealed in a ravine near the spot; but thej immedi- 
 ately advanced to the edge of the bank in great force, 
 and with intention to cliarge ; but the tremendous 
 and well directed fire from the schooners which was 
 opened upon them, compelled them to retire. The 
 troops which were immediately formed ascended the 
 bank and attacked the British, who were routed and 
 iled in every direction, being still exposed to a de- 
 structive fire of grape and canister from the schoon- 
 ers. The enemy retreated to Fort George, and hav- 
 ing set fire to their magazines, immediately left it 
 and proceeded towards Queenstown. They were pur- 
 sued forsome distance by the light troops ; but the main 
 body having been under arms from one in the morn- 
 ing, were too much overcome with fatigue to join 
 in the pursuit. The troops returned from the pur- 
 suit about 12 o'clock to fort George, of which the 
 Americans then had quiet possession. 
 
 The total loss of the Americans on this occasion, 
 was 39 killed, and 111 wounded : that of the British 
 was 108 killed, 163 wounded, and 278 wounded and 
 prisoners, exclusive of militia prisoners, of which 
 Gen. Dearnborn paroled about 500. The next day, 
 Major Gen. Lewis, with a considerable part of the 
 troops, marched by the way of Queenstown in pursuit 
 
^2 LIFE OF 
 
 of the enemy, who made a stand at the Beaver Dam, 
 where they had a depot of provisions and military 
 stores, were reinforced by 300 regulars from Kings- 
 ton, and were collecting the militia ; from which cir- 
 cumstances, and the strength of the position, it was 
 supposed that they might resolve to await the arri- 
 val of the American forces, and risk an action. They^ 
 however, determined otherwise. — Having been join- 
 ed by the troops of Fort Erie, who had blown up their 
 magazine previously to their evacuating the fort, 
 they broke up their camp at Beaver Dam, and re- 
 treated along the mountains towards the head of Lake 
 Ontario. General Lewis ascertaining that the Brit- 
 ish had retreated, returned with his troops to Fort 
 George. Fort Erie was taken possession of the same 
 evening that it was evacuated, by a party of Ameri- 
 cans from the opposite shore. 
 
 In March 1813, Perry was appointed Master Com- 
 mandant ; and about the same time, he was designa- 
 ted to superintend the building and fitting out of a 
 naval force upon Lake Erie, and to command upon 
 that Lake. He arrived from Sackett's Harbour at 
 the port of Erie, near the close of the month of March. 
 Being informed that an attack was to be made upon 
 Fort George, he proceeded from Erie on the 25th of 
 April, two days previous to the attack, and joined 
 Commodore Chauncey at Niagara. Having volun- 
 teered his services, he accompanied the fleet on the 
 27thj when the attack was made ; and from his ac- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 73 
 
 tivity, bravery, and skill, rendered great assistance 
 in the disembarkation of the troops ; and was distin- 
 guished, throughout the whole operations, for his 
 active exertions and cool intrepidity. He was pres- 
 ent at every point where he could be useful, and 
 often exposed to showers of musketry ; but fortu- 
 nately escaped uninjured, being reserved for a higher 
 destiny. 
 
 The next day, the 28th, he was dispatched by 
 Commodore Chauncey, with fifty-five seamen, to 
 Black Rock, to take charge of five vessels at that 
 place, and proceed with them to the port of Erie, 
 and to prepare and have the whole squadron on that 
 lake, ready for service as soon as possible. These 
 vessels had been prepared for service by Mr. Eck- 
 ford after the capture of York — an instance of extra- 
 ordinary dispatch. — Two hundred soldiers had been 
 offered by General Dearborn, to he put on board of 
 these vessels at Black Rock, to assist in protecting 
 them on their passage to Erie. 
 
 Accordingly, Perry, early in June, proceeded with 
 these vessels to Erie, and arrived safely, having elu- 
 ded the vigilance of the Queen Charlotte and Lady 
 Prevost, which were cruising off Long Point to in- 
 tercept him. He passed them in the night, unper- 
 ceived. The Niagara and Lawrence, which had 
 been built at Erie, under the superintendence of Per- 
 ry, were launched in the month of May, and great 
 exertions were made to complete their equipment, 
 7 
 
74 LITE OF 
 
 and fit them for service. — The Queen Charlotte, and 
 three other vessels of the enemy, came down the 
 Lake the 26th of May, but after the capture of Fort 
 George and its dependencies, they returned and pro- 
 ceeded up the Lake. On the 22d July, Commodore 
 Chauncey's squadron arrived at the head of Lake 
 Ontario, bringing 1 70 seamen for Perry's fleet, fitting 
 out at Erie, which arrived there soon afterwards. 
 
 On the 20th, 21st, and 22d of the same month, the 
 enemy's vessels appeared off the harbour of Erie, 
 and indicated a design to attack the place, their ob- 
 ject undoubtedly being to destroy the vessels which 
 were fitting out there. On the 22d, two of the 
 American gun boats went out and directed a few shot 
 at them, but their distance was too great to admit of 
 their having any effect. No alarm, however, was 
 felt for the safety of the place or the shipping, as the 
 force there was considered as sufficient to repel any 
 attack which the enemy might make. 
 
 The vessels at Erie, consisting of the Lawrence, 
 Niagara, Caledonia, Ariel, Scorpion, Somers, Ti- 
 gress and Porcupine, were completely equipped and 
 fitted for service by the 4th of August, when Perry 
 succeeded in getting them over the bar at the en- 
 trance of the harbour. This was an undertaking of 
 no small difficulty, there being at the bar but six feet 
 of water ; the brigs Lawrence and Niagara drew 
 nine, and the British squadron appeared off the har- 
 bour to prevent o'lrs from 2;oin:^ out. But difficul- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 75 
 
 lies and dangers are no obstacles to the brave and 
 ingenious, who never want expedients or resolution* 
 when occasion requires them. A mind fertile in re- 
 sources, is never at loss for ways and means. To 
 get the Lawrence and Niagara over the bar, the fol- 
 lowing ingenious means were employed : two large 
 scows, of fifty feet long, ten feet wide, and eight feet 
 deep, having been prepared for the purpose, were 
 filled with water and floated along upon each side 
 of one of the vessels, parallel therewith, which were 
 then secured by large pieces of timber extended 
 from the port holes of the vessel across the scows ; 
 the space between the timbers and boats were se- 
 cured by other pieces, properly arranged ; the wa- 
 ter was then bailed from the scows, which gave them 
 an astonishing buoyant and lifting power. The two 
 brigs were thus conveyed across the bar, before the 
 enemy were apprised of what was transacting, or had 
 taken any steps to oppose it. One obstacle had been 
 overcome, but there were still difficulties and wants 
 which must be obviated and supplied, before they 
 could be prepared to seek the enemy. There were 
 not at this time more than half the number of sailors 
 that were required to man the fleet. This deticiency 
 however, was in some measure supplied by the Penn- 
 sylvania militia, a number of whom volun- 
 teered their services on the occasion. Perry made 
 a short cruise off Long Point, more, as was suppo- 
 sed, for exercising his men, many of whom were 
 
76 LIFE OF 
 
 wholly unexperienced, than for seeking the ene- 
 my. He returned to Erie, where he remained un- 
 til the last of August, when he sailed with the squad- 
 ron, to co-operate with General Harrison in the re- 
 duction of Maiden. He anchored the fleet off the 
 mouth of Sandusky river, where he had an interview 
 with General Harrison, from whom he received 
 about seventy volunteers, principally Kentuckians, 
 who served in the capacity of marines, on board the 
 squadron. The Ohio, commanded by Captain Dob- 
 bin, having been dispatched to Erie after provisions, 
 and the Amelia having been left there for th-e want 
 of men to man her, the fleet at this time consisted of 
 Bine sail, mounting in all fifty-four guns, with which 
 Commodore Perry appeared before Maiden, recon- 
 noitered the British, and offered them battle, which 
 they did not choose to accept ; although their fleet 
 consisting of six sail, mounted sixty-six guns. Being 
 unable to draw the enemy out, and unwilling to en- 
 gage them while under the protection of the guns of 
 the fort. Commodore Perry retired with the fleet to 
 Put-in-Bay, which is about thirty-four miles from 
 Maiden. 
 
 Here, we me must for the present, leave the hero 
 of Erie, and before we follow him to the scene of 
 his glory, the splendid victory of the 10th of Septem- 
 ber, which has identified his name with that of the 
 Lake upon which it was achieved, we must return to 
 the first events of the war upon this frontier, and 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY T7 
 
 give a succinct account of its operations, down to 
 the period at which we have left the Commodore. — 
 As the naval victory upon Lake Erie, led to the cap- 
 ture of Proctor's army, and the successful termina- 
 tion of the war upon that frontier, its preceding op- 
 erations cannot, with propriety, be separated from 
 that event. 
 
 The ultimate object of any measure, is the most 
 important circumstance with respect to it ; and what- 
 ever has a direct and conspicuous influence upon this 
 object, not only claims in itself a distinguished no- 
 tice, but in some measure renders all other opera- 
 tions and means, connected therewith and tending 
 to the same end, appurtenants to it. Upon these 
 principles, the history of the war upon the frontier 
 of Lake Erie, belongs to that of the naval operations 
 ?>f Commodore Perry upon that Lake ; and as the 
 latter form a prominent part of the personal histo- 
 ry of Perry, the former must accompany it also.— • 
 When the private history of an individual has become 
 identified with the public annals of his country, he 
 has attained a niclie in the temple of fime, which will 
 secure to his memory a just immortality. 
 
 At the time war was declared, General Hull, who 
 was then Governor of the Territory of Michigan, was 
 in the north-western part of the state of Ohio, on his 
 march to Detroit. He had at that time under his 
 command, about 2000 men, consisting of the 4th 
 regiment of United States' infantry, and a detach- 
 7* 
 
78 LIFE OP 
 
 ment of 1200 Ohio militia. In April preceding, the 
 Governor of that state was required by the President 
 to order into the service of the United States this de- 
 tachment of mihtia, which was principallj filled up 
 by volunteers ; a conspicuous evidence of the patri- 
 otism o[ the citizens of that state, and of the populari- 
 ty of the war. This detachment rendezvoused at 
 Dayton on the 29th of April, and early in June they 
 proceeded to Urbanna, where, on the 10th they were 
 joined by the 4th regiment of United States' Infan- 
 try. The next day (being seven days previous to the 
 declaration of war,) they commenced their march 
 through a wilderness, presenting numerous obstacles ; 
 being destitute of roads, bridges, and every facility 
 to the march of an army which civilization aifords."^ 
 The country from Urbanna to the rapids of the Mau- 
 mee, or Miami of the Lakes, at that time belonged 
 to the Indians, (but has since, with the exception of 
 some reservations, been ceded to the United States,) 
 and contained no settlements but those of the natives. 
 From thence to Detroit, along the border of Lake 
 Erie and Detroit river, were several French and Ca- 
 nadian settlements, which contained some other emi- 
 grants that had more recently come among them. 
 By the treaty which General Wayne made with the 
 Indians in 1795, (commonally called the Grenville 
 treaty,) there were ceded to the United States a 
 number of tracts, generally of six miles square, at dif- 
 
 * History of the war. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRV. 79 
 
 ferent stages, along the navigable waters, from'the 
 Ohio river to the Lakes ; the object of which was 
 to provide for the estabhshment of a chain of posts, 
 which might constitute a barrier between tlie Indi- 
 ans and our frontier settlements. Previously to the 
 war, however, nofortsorblock houses had been erect- 
 ed upon these ceded tracts ; and the country from 
 Urbanna to the Rapids, a distance of more than 1 20 
 miles, at the time it was penetrated by General Hull's 
 army, did not contain a civilized being, nor disclose 
 a single trace of civilization. This dreary wilderness 
 was traversed in about twenty days, the army having 
 arrived at the Rapids the last of June. 
 
 The transition from a frightful wilderness, ten- 
 anted only by the ferocious savage and v/ild beasts, 
 to a country beautiful and highly picturesque by na- 
 ture, enlivened by the visible evidences of civil- 
 ization, and presenting to view the dwellings of their 
 countrymen, had a most surprising and animating 
 effect upon the army. From the fatigue of the rout, 
 the difficulties encountered, and the privations endu- 
 red, the army, most of whom were unaccustomed to 
 the ordinary hardships of a soldiers' life, at the time 
 they arrived here, were much dispirited ; but imme- 
 diately every aspect changed ; the gloom of the wil- 
 derness disappeared ; a renewed energy and forti- 
 tude was discoverable, and a beam of joy visible up- 
 on every countenance. 
 
 Having dispatched a small schooner, loaded with 
 
80 LIFE OF 
 
 hospital stores andofficers' baggage for Detroit, guard- 
 ed by a lieutenant and thirty men, and remained 
 two or three days for refreshments, the army pro- 
 ceeded on their march. After a fatiguing march of 
 more than a month, on the 5th of July, they arrived 
 and encamped at Spnng Wells, opposite Sandwich, 
 and within a few miles of Detroit. The British hav- 
 ing heard of the declaration of war, captured the 
 schooner which had been dispatched for Detroit. 
 
 On being informed of the declaration of war, Gen- 
 eral Hull, who had been authorised, in case of such 
 an event, to act offensively, and invade Canada, or- 
 dered arrangements to be immediately made for that 
 enterprise — an enterprise which at that time it was- 
 thought promised almost certain success. Accor- 
 dingly great exertions were made by the officers to 
 discipline the troops, to inspire them with proper 
 sentiments of subordii^ation and obedience to or- 
 ders ; their arms wxre examined and repaired, and 
 several pieces of ordinance which were in the fort 
 of Detroit, were mounted and fitted for service. 
 
 The necessary preparations Imving been made, on 
 the 12th of July, the army crossed the river inta 
 Canada, and encamped at Sandwich, a httle below 
 Detroit, It is worthy of notice that in this, the first 
 attempt since our independence to lead the militia, 
 in the service of the United States, without the limits 
 thereof, the constitutional principle was not entirely 
 inoperative, a small part of one company having re- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY, 81 
 
 lused to cross into Canada. The inhabitants having, 
 on the approach of the enemy, been thrown into the 
 greatest consternation, and fled in every direction. 
 General Hull issued a proclamation offering protec- 
 tion to all who should not take a part in the war ; 
 whereupon many returned to their homes. Col. 
 M'Arther, with a rifle corps and a company of mili- 
 tia, having been detached to reconnoitre the country, 
 penetrated to McGregor's mills, upon the river La 
 Trench, or Thames, near the spot where Proctor's 
 army was subsequently captured by General Harri- 
 son. This detachment left Sandwich on the 14tb, 
 and returned on the 1 7th, having seized and taken 
 possession of a considerable quantity of ammunition, 
 blankets, and other military stores, and collected a 
 considerable supply of provisions. That district of 
 Upper Canada, which was traversed by M^Arther, 
 is a beautiful and interesting country, and at this 
 time, being the harvest season, the fields were every 
 where bending under the weight of the ' yellow grain' 
 with which they were enlivened and adorned. But 
 the harvest song had given place to the harsh notes 
 of war ; and numerous fields of wheat, which were 
 remarkably fine, were left ungathered ; every male 
 who was capable of bearing arms, having been draft- 
 ed for the defence of the Province. On the 16th, the 
 day preceding the return of M'Arther, another re- 
 connoitering party of 280 men, under Colonel Cass, 
 traversed the country towards Maiden, where the 
 
32 LIFE OP 
 
 British forces and those of their Indian allies, were 
 concentrated. This place, which is sometimes cal= 
 led Amherstburgh, is situated near the junction of 
 the Detroit river with Lake Erie, and is about thir- 
 teen miles south from Sandwich. The road follows 
 the course of the Detroit river, and crosses two 
 creeks and the river Aux Canards, which is about 
 four miles north from Maiden, where Colonel Cass 
 found an advanced post of the enemy, that comman- 
 ded the bridge across that river. — Colonel Cass hav- 
 ing examined the position of the British posts, resol- 
 ved to attempt to surprise them ; with a view to 
 which, he posted a company of riflemen near the 
 bridge, and proceeded with the rest of hi? detach- 
 ment, about five miles up the river, where they for- 
 ded it, and proceeded upon the opposite side of the 
 river towards the bridge ; the riflemen in the mean- 
 time, agreeably to their instructions, commenced and 
 kept up a fire upon the enemy. The surprise would 
 have been complete had it not been, that the pro- 
 gress of the detachment under Colonel Cass was im- 
 peded by a creek, which compelled them to make a 
 circuit of two or three miles, that occasioned consid- 
 erable delay, and afforded the British time and op- 
 portunity to prepare for their defence ; yet on the 
 approach of Colonel Cass, they did not deem it ex- 
 pedient to attempt to maintain their position, but re- 
 treated to Maiden, leaving the bridge in the posses- 
 sion of the Americans. This bridge, the importance 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 83 
 
 of the possession of which was most apparent, as 
 forming the principal obstruction between the Amer- 
 ican camp at Sandwich and the British at Maiden, 
 however, was abandoned ; Colonel Cass not feeling 
 authorised to retain it, or to leave there any part of 
 his detachment, all of which returned to Sandwich ; 
 and no effort was afterv/ards made bj the command- 
 ing general to regain the possession of it. General 
 Hull, with the main body of the army, had hitherto 
 remained entirely inactive. No movement had been 
 attempted, nor any effective preparations therefor 
 been made, although it was apparent to every capa- 
 city, that the success of the enterprise depended al- 
 most entirely upon the celerity of their operations, 
 and an immediate display of energy and power, be- 
 fore the enemy were prepared to make a stand, and 
 while the inhabitants were overwhelmed with con- 
 sternation, who by active and successful operations, 
 would have been either brought to the American 
 camp, or confined to their homes as non-combatants. 
 An invading army is not only conquered by defeat ; 
 the want of success, the reputation of which is indis- 
 pensable to an army in that situation, and even inac- 
 tivity, are often fatal to it. Nearly a month elapsed 
 after this invading army had entered Canada, before 
 a single piece of cannon or a mortar was upon wheels 
 suitable for an attack upon Maiden. 
 
 On the 7th of August, two 24 pounders brought 
 from Detroit, and three howitzers, were mounted 
 
84 LIFE OF 
 
 and fitted for service. But at this time the aspect of 
 affairs was greatly changed. The British had recei- 
 ved great reinforcements of Indians, having instiga- 
 ted all the tribes within the reach of their influence, 
 to " raise the tomahawk" against the United States. 
 On the 17th of July, Fort Makinaw, or Michillimack- 
 inac, situated upon an island in the entrance of the 
 strait between the lakes Huron and Michigan, was 
 captured by a combined force of British and Indians ; 
 information of which reached the army on the 28th. 
 Several indecisive skirmishes between reconnoitering 
 parties, sent out by General Hull, and the advanced 
 posts of the British and Indians, principally in the 
 neighbourhood of the river Aux Canards, had occur- 
 red ; the bridge across that river, had been taken up 
 by the British, excepting the sleepers ; a battery erec- 
 ted atone end of it, and the Queen Charlotte, carry- 
 ing eighteen 24 pounders, and a gun boat, were sta- 
 tioned in the Detroit River, at the mouth of the Aux 
 Canards, one mile only from the bridge. These 
 events, particularly the capture of Fort Makinaw, 
 were relied upon by General Hull as having rendered 
 it necessary for him to recross the river and leave 
 Canada. But these events, with the exception of the 
 fall of Makinaw, were within his controul, and in a 
 measure, the consequences of his inactivity. That 
 the surrender of that post contributed to " open the 
 northern hive of Indians," will not be doubted, and so 
 did the inactive and inefficient operations of his ar- 
 
OLIVER H. PERKV. ' S:0 
 
 my. The Indians are elated with success, and choose 
 to join the strongest party. But independent of the 
 influence of any special circumstances, there were 
 causes of a permanent nature, which were calculated 
 to attach the Indians to the British, and to induce 
 them to join them in making war upon the United 
 States. It is with these barbarous people, as with 
 many others more civilized, but not more under the 
 dominion of reason — their friendship is bestowed 
 upon those who flatter their prejudices, and afford 
 them the facilities of indulging their savage propen- 
 sities ; whereas those who attempt to reclaim them 
 from their wretched condition, to wean them from 
 the hunter state, and to introduce among them a 
 knowledge of agriculture, the mechanic arts, and all 
 the advantages of civilization, are regarded with sus- 
 picion, if not with hostility. 
 
 There is also another cause which has tended to 
 render the Indians more suspicious and unfriendly 
 to the citizens of the United States, than to those of 
 Canada. It is the rapid progress which the former 
 have made in the formation and extension of new 
 settlements. They have been alarmed at the rapid 
 inroads of civilization, which have compelled them 
 either to abandon their hunter state, or their lands, 
 and retire farther to the west. Upon these princi- 
 ples, the pohcy of the colonial government of the 
 Canadas, both when subject to France, and since 
 they have been under England, with relation to the 
 8 • 
 
86 LIFE OF 
 
 Indian tribes, has been founded ; and this policy is 
 diametrically opposite to that which has governed 
 the conduct of the United States, in their relations 
 with the Indians within their borders. 
 
 They have attempted to reclaim them from their 
 savage condition, to cheer their gloom with the lights 
 of civilization, and to introduce among them the 
 practice of cultivating their lands, instead of reserv- 
 ing them for hunting grounds ; but on the contrary, 
 the British, and formerly the French, have endeav- 
 oured to keep them in their savage state, and de- 
 pendent upon hunting for subsistance ; by means of 
 which they have been enabled to carry on a lucra- 
 tive fur trade, and of making use of them as an in- 
 strument of war. The policy of the British govern- 
 ment has reference only to its own interests — That 
 of the United States, not only to its own interest, but 
 the amelioration of the condition of the Indians. 
 
 In the several wars in which the United States 
 have been engaged, both before and since their In- 
 dependence, the savages have always been instigated 
 to join with their enemies in the contest. — During 
 the three first years of the French war of 1756, they 
 were used by the French as a most destructive in- 
 strument of hostility, and gave to the operations of 
 the war a character peculiarly ferocious and horri- 
 ble. At that period, the British government execra- 
 ted, in the severest terms, this conduct of the French, 
 ■\nd insfsted that there was no excuse for their em- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 8t 
 
 ^)ioying, as a means of hostility, a force which disre- 
 garded all the rules of warfare recognized by civili- 
 zed nations, and whose ferocity they themselves 
 could not controul. Yet since the Canadas have 
 fallen into the hands of the British, they have not 
 been behind their predecessors, the French, in mak- 
 ins use of this terrible instrument of war, the conse- 
 quences of which are so abhorrent to the feelings of 
 humanity. In the war of the revolution, the ruins 
 of Wyoming, and other desolations, attested the at- 
 trocities of the savages, then in the service of Great- 
 Britain, and subsequently, particularly in 1791, after 
 the memorable defeat of General St. Clair, our fron- 
 tier settlements have been the victims of savage 
 barbarity. 
 
 At the commencement of the late war, it was hop- 
 ed, and by some believed, that these scenes of hor- 
 ror would not have been reacted upon our frontiers ; 
 that the savages who were no way concerned in the 
 contest, would have been suffered to "smoke the 
 pipe of peace," and not to have taken any part in 
 the war. The result, however, was otherwise. The 
 bloody tomahawk was again put into the hand of the 
 savage, and the massacres of the river Raisin, swel- 
 led the record of their attrocities, and added anoth- 
 er to the many evidences of the wickedness of the 
 employment of them by civilized powers. 
 • From the permanent influence which the British 
 possessed over the Indians, aided by the fall of Fort 
 
^8 LIFE OF 
 
 Makinaw, and other circumstances already noticed, 
 they were enabled in a short time to collect a con- 
 siderable number of Indian warriors. They also re- 
 ceived reinforcements of regulars and militia, for the 
 defence of Maiden, before General Hull had made 
 the necessary preparations for attacking it. The 
 Indians in the mean time crossed the Detroit river, 
 and interrupted the communication with the state of 
 Ohio, upon which the American army depended for 
 supplies. It being of great importance to keep open 
 this communication, and as a reinforcement of vol- 
 unteers, with provisions, were daily expected upon 
 this rout, which were exposed to be cut off by the 
 Indians, on the 4th of August, a detachment of 200 
 men, was dispatched for their protection, and to open 
 this communication. 
 
 Having proceeded to Brownstown, the detach- 
 ment was surprised by an ambuscade of Indians, and 
 completely defeated ; whereupon they returned to 
 camp, without having effected the object of their 
 expectation. 
 
 About this time an express arrived from General 
 Hall, commanding the American troops on the Niag- 
 ara frontier, stating that there was no prospect of a 
 co-operation from that quarter. Under these cir- 
 cumstances, on the evening of the 7th and the morn- 
 ing; of the 8th of August, General Hull, with the ar- 
 my, returned to Detroit. But many of the inhabit- 
 ants of Upper Canada, having put themselves under 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 89 
 
 the protection of General Hull, in consequence of 
 his proclamation, it was deemed necessary that some 
 provision should be made for their security. Accor- 
 dingly, a fortress was established a little above Sand- 
 wich, on the Detroit river, where there was left a 
 garrison of 300 men. The main body of the army 
 having encamped at Detroit, General Hull immedi- 
 ately ordered a detachment, under the command of 
 the brave Colonel Miller, consisting of regulars, and 
 a corps of artillerists, having one six pounder and a 
 howitzer, a small body of cavalry, and some of the 
 Ohio and Michigan volunteers, comprising 600 men, 
 of whom the principal part were regulars, to open 
 the communication with the state of Ohio, which was 
 deemed of primary importance. This detachment 
 left Detroit on the 8th of August, and having pro- 
 ceeded to Maguago, about 14 miles from Detroit, at 
 about 4 o'clock, P. M., the next day the van guard 
 of the detachment was attacked by a formidable body 
 of British and Indians : they however received the 
 attack in the most gallant manner, and maintained 
 their position, although exposed to a heavy fire, un- 
 til the line was formed, and the whole detachment, 
 with the exception of the rear guard, was brought in- 
 to action. The enemy had erected a temporary 
 breast v/ork of logs, behind which their line was form- 
 ed, a numerous body of Indians extending into a 
 thick wood upon their left. — The Americans having 
 formed, immediately advanced to within a short dis* 
 
 8* 
 
90 LIFE OP 
 
 tance ©f the enemy, reserving their fire, when thej 
 made a general discharge, and then rushed upon the 
 enemy with charged bayonets. The enemy relying 
 upon the security of their position, did not give way 
 until forced by the point of the bayonet, when they 
 retreated. They were pursued with activity and 
 vigour for about two miles ; but the troops being fa- 
 tigued, and night approaching, they gave up the pur- 
 suit, and returned to take care of the wounded. — 
 The Indians in this action fought with the most des- 
 perate bravery. They were commanded by the cel- 
 ebrated Tecumseh, who fell fourteen months after- 
 wards, in the action upon the Thames, gallantly 
 fighting in the British service. The Americans in 
 this affair, displayed great coolness and intrepidity. 
 Their loss was considerable, 18 killed and 64 wound- 
 ed. The loss of the enemy was not ascertained ; but 
 the prisoners, among whom were four regulars, 
 stated that Major Muir, who commanded, and two 
 subaltern officers, were wounded, and fifteen pri- 
 vates killed and wounded of the 4Jst regiment. The 
 loss of the miHtia and volunteers, must have been 
 more serious, as they were in the warmest part o* 
 the action. Of the Indians, 40 were found dead on 
 the field ; the number wounded was not known. — 
 Their leader, Tecumseh, received a slight wound. 
 The number of the enemy in this action is not know ; 
 jt is stated, however, by General Hull, to have been 
 400 regulars and volunteers, and more than that num- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 91 
 
 ber of Indians. This victory, however complete 
 and honorable, was productive of little benefit. The 
 enemy although defeated, were in a situation to re- 
 inforce, and still to endanger, if not entirely obstruct 
 the communication with Ohio ; and the condition of 
 the wounded and sick, which required that they 
 should be removed to the camp, and the occurrence 
 of a severe storm of rain, obliged Colonel Miller to 
 return with the detachment to Detroit. It was at- 
 tempted to transport the wounded by water, boats 
 having been sent for that purpose from Detroit ; but 
 this proved to be impracticable, the enemy at Mai- 
 den having discovered the boats, dispatched the 
 Queen Charlotte and Hunter, in pursuit of them, 
 whereby it was found necessary to remove the woun- 
 ded to the woods, where they were left until wag- 
 gons could be procured from Detroit, by which they 
 were conveyed to that place. About this time the 
 troops were withdrawn from the fort at Sandwich, 
 which was abandoned and demolished. 
 
 From a chain of circumstances and events, equal- 
 ly surprising and mysterious, suspicions of treachery 
 in the commanding officer, which for some time had 
 existed among the troops, were now become greatly 
 strengthened and extended. So strong were these 
 suspicions, that a letter was addressed by five of the 
 principal officers, to governor Meigs of Ohio, inform- 
 ing him of the inauspicious situation of their affairs, 
 and of their suspicions as to their commanding gene^ 
 ral. 
 
92 LIFE OF 
 
 It being understood that a reinforcement of troops, 
 with provisions and supplies for the army, had arriv- 
 ed at the river Raisin, which it was apprehended 
 might be captured by the enemy, on the 14th of Au- 
 gust, Colonels Cass and M'Auther, with 400 of the 
 most effective men, were dispatched to make anoth- 
 er attempt to open the communication with Ohio, 
 and to penetrate to the river Raisin. This detach^ 
 ment proceeded upon the upper rout, through the 
 woods. In the mean time the British had not been 
 inactive or inattentive to the movements of General 
 Hull. On the 1 4th, the same day Colonels Cass and 
 MAuther were detached, and ordered upon the 
 aforesaid expedition, they began to erect batteries 
 opposite to Detroit, and previous to this, had taken 
 possession of Sandwich. On the 15th, the following 
 day. General Brock dispatched two officers from 
 Sandwich, with a flag of truce to General Hull, de- 
 manding the surrender of the army under his com- 
 mand, and fort Detroit ; threatening all the horrors 
 of Indian outrage in case of refusal, by an intimation 
 that if the contest was commenced, it would be en- 
 tirely beyond his power to controul the savages. In 
 answer to this extraordinary demand, considering 
 the circumstances under which it was made, and the 
 relative strength of the two armies. General Hull 
 replied that he was in a situation to meet any force 
 which the enemy had at their disposal, and that he 
 had no apprehension as to the consequences which 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 1>3 
 
 might arise from the exercise of it. On receiving 
 this intelligence by the return of the flag, the British 
 immediately commenced firing from their batteries 
 upon Detroit, which was returned from the fort at 
 that place. The firing continued until 10 o'clock 
 that night, upon both sides, and was renewed at the 
 dawn of light. During the night the Queen Char- 
 lotte and Hunter, had advanced up the river, nearly 
 to Detroit, and took a position to cover the landing 
 of the British and Indians, which they effected with 
 perfect safety, no attempt being made to oppose 
 them, and immediately advanced towards the fort of 
 Detroit, whereupon General Hull, without making a 
 single effort to repel them, ordered a white flag to 
 be hoisted, and the firing which was still kept up by 
 the fort upon the battery on the opposite side, to be 
 stopped. Upon this, the firing from the enemy's 
 battery ceased, and an interview immediately took 
 place, which resulted in an agreement upon articles 
 of capitulation, whereby all the troops, both regulars, 
 militia and volunteers, including the detachment un- 
 der Colonels M'Auther and Cass, which had not 
 then returned, and the reinforcement expected from 
 Ohio, supposed then to be upon the river Raisin 5 
 the fort and town of Detroit ; all the military stores 
 and arms, and every article of public property, of 
 whatever description, were surrendered to the Brit- 
 ish. The militia and volunteers were paroled, on 
 condition of their not serving again, unless exchange 
 
94 LIFE OF 
 
 ed. There was a provision in the articles for the 
 security of private property. 
 
 The detachment of Colonels M'Auther and Cass, 
 having been unable to penetrate to the river Raisin, 
 returned to Detroit shortly after this capitulation. 
 When within a mile of the place, they first heard of 
 its surrender, and of the main army, when a council 
 was held, and it was determined to dispatch an offi- 
 cer to the fort with a flag of truce. This having been 
 done, the officer returned the ensuing evening, ac- 
 companied by two British officers, by vi'hom they 
 were informed that they were prisoners of war ; 
 whereupon the detachment marched to Detroit, and 
 surrendered themselves up to the British. 
 
 Captain Brush, who commanded the detachment 
 from Ohio, at the river Raisin, the day after General 
 Hull had surrendered the army, received from a Brit- 
 ish officer, who had been dispatched for the purpose, 
 copies of the articles of capitulation, together with a 
 letter from Colonel M'Auther, signifying that his de- 
 tachment was included in the surrender. The ex- 
 traordinary nature of these dispatches, occasioned 
 them at first to be considered as forgeries, and the 
 officer was seized and thrown into confinement ; but 
 however great the surprise which they occasioned, or 
 the reluctance with which they could be believed, 
 the mind was soon deprived of the relief which it 
 could derive from doubts, the <ruth of all that was 
 stated being confirmed by a number of soldiers, who 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 95 
 
 had arrived there from Detroit. Immediately a 
 council was called which, after due consideration, de- 
 cided that General Hull had no authority to capitu- 
 late for them, and consequently that they were not 
 bound to regard his surrender of them, not being at 
 the time under his command ; and considering them- 
 selves at liberty to provide for their own safety, they 
 resolved instantly to return to Ohio. What of the 
 public property and stores could not be carried ofF, 
 it was deemed expedient not to destroy, as some of 
 the soldiers were obliged to be left behind, in conse- 
 quence of sickness, and a number of American fami- 
 lies had taken refuge in the fort ; and it was also ap- 
 prehended that the destruction of the public propert}? 
 at this place, might induce the British to treat the 
 prisoners surrendered to them at Detroit, with more 
 severity. These resolutions were immediately car- 
 ried into effect, and the detachment returned in safe- 
 ty. — Among the public property surrendered, were 
 twenty-five pieces of iron, and eight of brass ordi- 
 nance, belonging to the fort at Detroit ; several of 
 the latter were received by the British with great en- 
 thusiasm, being the same pieces that, thirty-five years 
 before, on the same day and month, (the IGth August, 
 1777,) were surrendered, by a detachment of Bur- 
 goyne's army, to the Americans, at Bennington. 
 
 The unfortunate and disastrous result of the ope- 
 rations of the army under the command of General 
 Hull, occasioned the greatest surprise and astonish- 
 
96 LIFE OF 
 
 ment through the country ; and great solicitude and 
 concern with all who anticipated with pleasure the 
 success of our arms, and who regarded the national 
 honour. But with the settlers of the north-western 
 frontier, who were thereby left wholly defenceless, 
 exposed to the murderous incursions and savage out- 
 rages of the Indians, it produced the most hvely ap- 
 prehensions and alarm. 
 
 This event was in every point of view productive 
 of the most serious consequences. It occasioned all 
 offensive operations in that quarter to be abandoned, 
 or postponed to a distant day ; laid open an extensive 
 frontier, which for more than twelve months, was ex- 
 posed to all the horrors of Indian warfare ; occasion- 
 ed many settlements to be broken up ; encouraged and 
 greatly increased the hostility of the Indians ; convert- 
 ed the territory of Michigan into a British province, 
 and rendered necessary all the subsequent operations 
 of our troops under the command of General Harri- 
 son, upon that frontier, attended with an immense ex- 
 pense to the government, and the sacrifice of many 
 valuable lives ; but which resulted so honourably to 
 him and to his country, in the decisive victory upon 
 the Thames, 
 
 To complete the disasters of this campaign, fort 
 Chicago or Dearborn, situated near the south western 
 extremity of lake Michigan, was evacuated, and the 
 garrison all massacred, or made prisoners, by the In- 
 dians. About the time General Hull returned from 
 
^ OLIVER H. PERRY. Mi 
 
 Canada, he dispatched a message to Captain Heald, 
 who commanded at Chicago, directing him to evacu- 
 ate the fort ; make such disposition of the public 
 property as he might think proper, and proceed with 
 the garrison, consisting of ^^ men, to Detroit. — 
 Agreeably to the orders of General Hull, Captain 
 Wells proceeded from fort Wayne, with 30 Miamies, 
 for Chicago, where he arrived on the 13th of August, 
 for the purpose of escorting the garrison at that post 
 to Detroit. It being impossible to remove or pre- 
 serve the public property, the next day all the goods 
 in the fort were distributed among the neighbouring 
 Indians, who having understood that the fort was to 
 be abandoned, and the public property given to them, 
 had come in for the purpose. But the surplus arms 
 ammunition, and spiritous liquors, were destroy- 
 ed, from an apprehension that the Indians might 
 make a bad use of them. 
 
 The necessary arrangements being made, on the 
 1 5th the fort was evacuated, and the garrison com- 
 menced their march for Detroit, a part of the In- 
 dians being stationed in front, and the remainder in 
 the rear. They had proceeded but about two miles 
 along the border of lake Michigan, having the lake on 
 their left, and a high sand bank on their right, when 
 they were fired upon by a party of Indians, from be- 
 hind the bank, which was returned by the garrison, 
 and a severe, but unequal contest ensued. The gar- 
 rison receiving no assistance from the Miamies, were 
 9 
 
98 LIFE OF 
 
 soon overpowered. In fifteen minutes, thirty-eight 
 of their number, together with two women and twelve 
 children, were killed, and the remainder having been 
 surrounded, were made prisoners. These unfortu. 
 iiate individuals, consisting not only of soldiers, but 
 of women and children, were carried back to the 
 fort, and distributed among the different tribes, accor- 
 ding to the " rules of war" of the Indians. The next 
 morning, the Indians burnt the fort and departed 
 with their prisoners.* There were between four and 
 five hundred Indians in the action, of whom fifteen 
 were killed. Captain Heald, a Lieutenant, twenty- 
 live non-commissioned ofticers and soldiers, and 
 eleven women and children, fell into the hands of 
 the Indians. Captain Heald and his lady having 
 been carried to the mouth of the river St. Joseph, 
 were left there with an Indian trader, both of them 
 being badly wounded. From thence they proceed- 
 ed to Makinaw, then in the possession of the British, 
 to whom the Captain surrendered himself as a pris- 
 oner of war. 
 
 Among the consequences which followed the dis- 
 astrous issue of the operations of the north-western 
 army under General Hull, was the undisputed do- 
 minion which it gave to the British upon Lake Erie, 
 and which they maintained until the signal victory of 
 the 10th of September, the following year. The 
 I • nitcd States' brig Adams fell into the hands of the 
 
 IliFtory of (he War, page 18. 
 
OLIVER il. PERRY* 99 
 
 British at Detroit, and was subsequently recaptured 
 by Lieutenant Elliot. 
 
 The extensive and manifold evils and embarrass- 
 ments arising from the surrender of General Hull, 
 were not entirely without their accompanying ad- 
 vantages. The surrender of a fort, and of an army, 
 of which favourable and even sanguine expectations 
 had been indulged, and the exposure of an extensive 
 frontier, to the ravages of Indian warfare, excited a 
 lively sensibility, and awakened a spirit of patriotism 
 throughout the United States, and particularly in the 
 western country. Early in August, a body of troops 
 destined for the relief and reinforcement of General 
 Hull, to be commanded by General Harrison, had 
 been ordered to rendezvous at Louisville, and the 
 red banks on the Ohio river. This served as a di- 
 rection and rallying point to the numerous volun- 
 teers who, animated with a spirit of patriotism, and 
 a sense of the danger to which their brethren in the 
 frontier settlements were exposed, poured forth from 
 almost every part of Kentucky and Ohio, upon the 
 spreading of the intelligence of the fate of General 
 Hull's army. So great was the number, and so 
 strong their ardour, that it became necessary to re- 
 press, rather than excite the public spirit, in this sec- 
 tion of the country. Here, all was unanimity ; all 
 were united in one cause — the cause of their coun- 
 try. If this spirit had prevailed throughout the un- 
 ion, it would have given a very different complexion 
 
JOO LIFE OF 
 
 to the events of the war. A considerable portion of 
 those who volunteered their services, were not ac- 
 cepted, the whole number being so great ; yet it was 
 with difficulty they could be persuaded to return to 
 their homes. 
 
 General Harrison having taken command of the 
 troops, his attention was first directed to the relief of 
 the exposed frontier posts. Accordingly, he pro- 
 ceeded to Piqua, where he arrived on the 2d of Sep- 
 tember, having a force, consisting of regulars and 
 volunteers, of about 2500 men. Here he received 
 liis military stores, and made the necessary arrange- 
 ments ; when on the 5th, the army commenced their 
 march for fort Wayne, situated at the junction of the 
 rivers St. Mary and St. St. Joseph, whose united wa- 
 ters constitute the Maumce, or Miami of the Lakes. 
 The Indians, flushed with the success which, in con- 
 junction with the British, they had experienced, had 
 advanced as far as this post, which was invested by 
 them when General Harrison approached ; but they 
 fled precipitately, before he arrived, on the 12th of 
 September. 
 
 General Harrison, deeming it expedient to break 
 lip the towns and disperse some of the hostile Indian 
 tribes, before he proceeded towards Detroit, two ex- 
 peditions were fitted out, one destined against the 
 Miami towns, upon the Wabash, below its junction 
 with the Tippacanoe river, the other against the Pot» 
 awatamie settlements, situated upon a stream called 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 101 
 
 St. Joseph, which discharges itself into Lake Michi- 
 gan. These enterprises were both attended with 
 success. Nine villages were destroyed, and all the 
 growing corn cut up, with a view to disperse the In- 
 dians from that part of the country, which the want 
 of provisions, it was thought, would be most hkely 
 to effect. 
 
 A short time after tliese events, a reinforcement 
 to the army arrived at fort Wayne, under General 
 Winchester. General Harrison at this time held no 
 military commission under the United States. IJc 
 was Governour of Indiana, and had been breveted a 
 Major General, and placed in command from the 
 emergency of the occasion, by the Governour of 
 Kentucky. On the arrival of Winchester, who had 
 been appointed a Brigadier General, by the Presi- 
 dent, and designed to command the north-western 
 army, Harrison relinquisihcd the command, and set 
 out for Indiana, with a body of mounted men, with 
 which he intended to destroy the Indian settlements 
 in that quarter. A few days after, however, and be- 
 fore Harrison had proceed far, an express arrived 
 with a commission from the President, wherein he 
 was appointed commander in chief of the north- 
 western army. This appointment is supposed to 
 have been made in consequence of the representa- 
 tions which were made to government hy the Ilen- 
 tuckians, who had great confidence in General Har- 
 lisou-— a confidence which, as subsequent event? pro- 
 9* 
 
:^02 LlFt UF 
 
 ved, was not misplaced. It however, created no 
 jealousy or dissatisfaction, and General Winchester 
 continued in the service, as second in command. — 
 On the 22d, Winchester marched with 400 regulars, 
 a brigade of Kentucky militia, and a body of caval- 
 ry, comprising about 2000 men, for fort Defiance, 
 and the day after. General Harrison returned to fort 
 Wayne, and resumed the command. 
 
 The transportation of the provisions and baggage 
 of a marching army, is usually attended with conside- 
 rable difficulty and delay ; but in a country like this 
 it is an undertaking presenting the most serious ob- 
 stacles and embarrassments. The country was not 
 only without roads, but intersected by innumerable 
 small streams, which are swelled and rendered im- 
 passable by rains, and possesses a soil, naturally rich, 
 deep, and free from stone, and which is rendered 
 more soft and miry, from the prevalence of mois- 
 ture, and the decomposition of vegitable substances, 
 which in process of time, has produced an artificial 
 stratum of considerable depth. From the difficul- 
 ties arising from these and other causes, of transport- 
 ing provisions with an army, traversing a gloomy 
 wilderness, each soldier was furnished with six days 
 supplies, and General Harrison proceeded to fort St. 
 Mary's to forward supplies for the army, protected by 
 a detachment of men, under Colonel Jennings, by 
 the Au Glaze, which affi^rds a water conveyance for 
 a considerable part of the distance. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 103 
 
 The army being now in the vicinity of the hostile 
 Indians, and in the heart of a country affording great 
 facilities for their mode of warfare, great vigilance 
 and precaution were made use of to guard against a 
 surprise. With a view to this object, the army was 
 formed into three divisions — consisting of the centre, 
 near which was the baggage, having a strong guard 
 in front and in rear, and the right and left wings, 
 which reached sixty, or an hundred yards distance 
 from the centre. There was also an advance guard 
 consisting of about 300 men, which marched so far in 
 front as to bring their rear even with the advance 
 baggage guard ; and the whole were preceded by a 
 company of spies, usually one or two miles ahead 
 the rear of which was covered by the horse. Such 
 were the difficulties and obstructions which the ar- 
 my had to encounter, that their progress was only 
 from six to ten miles a day. They fortified their en- 
 campment for night, which was done by forming 
 around it a breast work of logs and brush, four or 
 fire feet in height, and as soon as it was dark, small 
 fires were kindled at the mouths of the tents, and 
 large ones without the breast work. These precau- 
 tions rendered it necessary for the army to halt from 
 their march about 3 o'clock. On the third day of 
 the march, a trail was observed, but was thought, 
 however, to indicate a party of only twelve or fifteen 
 Indians. A party of horse followed up the trail for 
 six or eight milcsj when having pressed liard upon 
 
104 LIFE OF 
 
 the Indians, they scattered, which occasioned the 
 pursuit to be given up. On the 25th September, 
 being the day after, Ensign Legett, of the regulars, 
 and four nnen, proceeded at their own soHcitation, 
 in advance of the army, for fort Defiance, 25 miles 
 distance, to reconnoitre the number and situation of 
 the enemy. These brave and patriotic youths, who 
 were influenced by the ardour of their feelings and 
 not by the dictates of experience, paid dearly for 
 their temerity, in undertaking an enterprise so preg- 
 nant with danger, and for which they were so little 
 qualitied by experience. They were found the next 
 day, about six miles from the place where the army 
 encamped the preceding night, shot, scalped and 
 tomahawked in the most barbarous and shocking 
 manner. The day following, being the 27th, the 
 spies, accompanied by about forty of the horse, were 
 dispatched to bury them ; but they had not proceed- 
 ed far, before a body of Indians were discovered in 
 ambuscade, on each side of a trail, upon which the 
 Indians supposed that the detachment would march. 
 Their stratagem, however, did not succeed — Ballard, 
 the commander of the party, being ac<paainted with 
 the character of Indian warfare, marched his men in 
 two divisions, one on each side of the trail. Being 
 frustrated in their ambuscade, the Indians proceeded 
 to an elevation a sliort distance ahead, where they 
 were tired upon by the spies, which they immediate- 
 ly returned, accompanied with the most terrific yel!* 
 
OLIVER H. PERRV. 105 
 
 A charge was then made by the cavalry, but on their 
 approach, the Indians, changing the war yell to the 
 retreat yell, fled precipitately to their '• strong holds', 
 the swamps and thickets. In this affair, the detach- 
 ment had one wounded only ; the Indians were sup- 
 posed to have suffered considerably, several trails of 
 blood being discovered. After interring the remains 
 of their unfortunate brethren, the party returned to 
 the army without further molestation from the ene- 
 my. On the 28th, several Indians having been dis- 
 covered and fired upon by the spies, it was expected 
 that a general engagement would take place, and the 
 army was accordingly formed in order of battle ; but 
 no enemy appearing, the line of march was again re- 
 sumed. A party of horse having been dispatched 
 ahead to reconnoitre, discovered a fresh trail of 
 Indians, which, with other circumstances, induced a 
 belief that a numerous body of the enemy were near 
 at hand, which determined the General to cross the 
 river and encamp upon the opposite side. This was 
 done at the first ford that was discovered. Here a 
 fresh and a large trail was observed, which at first 
 occasioned great joy with the troops, it being suppos- 
 ed to have been made by Col. Jennings' detachment, 
 with the provisions, of v/hich they were then in great 
 want. But this joy was as fallacious as the supposed 
 facts from which it originated. The trail, instead of 
 indicating their brethren, with the provisions of the 
 army, proved to be the precursor of a large body of 
 
106 LIFE OF 
 
 the enemy wlio were discovered by a parly ci hoi'ae. 
 dispatched for the purpose, encamped three mile^ 
 ahead, and two from fort Defiance, surrounded by 
 savage fires and having war-poles erected, upon which 
 were displayed the bloody flag. 
 
 On the 29th, the General was apprised, by an ex- 
 press from Colonel Jennings, that his detachment was 
 then encamped on the Au Glaize, about 40 miles 
 above fort Defiance, where, agreeably to orders, he 
 had erected a block-house ; that he had not dared to 
 proceed farther with the force he had, having ascer- 
 tained by his spies, that the British and Indians were 
 in possession of fort Defiance. On the morning of 
 the 30th, a body of 30 horse, under Captain Garrard, 
 were dispatched to Colonel Jennings' detachment 
 on the Au Glaize, to escort a brigade of pack horses 
 with provisions for the army, which was in a destitute 
 and almost suffering condition. Garrard's body of 
 horse, arrived on the following day, and in a few 
 hours, started to return as an escort to the cavalcade 
 charged with the conveyance of provisions, and reach- 
 ed the army on the evening of the 2d of October. — 
 Their arrival, together with the provisions, revived 
 the desponding spirits of the army, exhausted with 
 fatigue, and suffering from hunger; and the joy was 
 greatly augmented, from the circumstance of their 
 beloved General Harrison's having accompanied the 
 escort, to resume the command. The army, during 
 the absence of the detachment, had taken possession 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 107 
 
 of fort Defiance, and the British and Indians had re- 
 treated down the river. — General Harrison, on the 
 4th of October, left fort Defiance, leaving the troops 
 at that place, which were to form the left wing of 
 his army, under General Winchester, to return to 
 the settlements in Ohio, to organize and bring on 
 the rest of his forces, which were to constitute the 
 centre and right wing. 
 
 General Tupper, who on the day of Harrison's 
 departure had been ordered to proceed with his com- 
 mand, consisting of nearly 1 000 mounted men, to the 
 rapids of the Miami, and which expedition he had 
 given up, principally from the undisciplined charac- 
 ter of his troops, returned soon after to Urbanna. 
 He was ordered to take command of a regiment of 
 regulars and a body of Ohio volunteers and militia, 
 which were to form the centre of the army, and pro- 
 ceed to Fort M'Auther. The right wing which con- 
 sisted of a brigade of Pennsylvania, and another of 
 Virginia militia, was stationed at Sandusky. Having 
 arrived at fort M'Auther, General Tupper made im- 
 mediate arrangements for proceeding with an expe- 
 dition to the Rapids. The force organized for the 
 expedition, consisted of more than COO men, with 
 w^hich he set out on the lOlh of October; each sol- 
 dier carrying in his knapsack provisions for five days. 
 On the 13th, having approached to within about thir- 
 teen miles of the Rapids, an officer was dispatched 
 ^o reconnoitre the situation of the enemy, by whom, 
 
108 LIFE OF 
 
 on his return, General Tupper wns informed that the 
 British and Indians still possessed the fort, and occu- 
 pied the settlements at the Rapids, and that their 
 hoats and vessels lay a little below. 
 
 In consequence of this information, it was thought 
 expedient to suspend the march of the detachment 
 until sun set, to prevent the enemy's obtaining infor- 
 mation of them ; and then to proceed to a ford, about 
 two and a half miles above the Rapids, with the view 
 of crossing the river and attacking the enemy, 
 if, on obtaining more particular information, it should 
 be thought advisable. Accordingly, scouts were 
 again sent out to examine the situation of the enemy, 
 which having returned and brought satisfactory infor- 
 mation, orders were given to ford the river and at- 
 tack the enemy at the break of day ; but it was soon 
 found that the troops could not pass. — So strong and 
 rapid was the current, that a number of men in at- 
 tempting to ford it were swept away, and could with 
 difficulty be saved with the loss of their arms and am- 
 munition. This plan of attacking the enemy having 
 proved impracticable, an attempt was made the 
 next morning to decoy them over ; with a view 
 to which, a number of the spies proceeded down 
 the river, and discovered themselves to the enemy . 
 but the Indians were too old in stratagems to beta- 
 ken in this ; a few only crossed the river, and they 
 were too cautious to be drawn within the lines. The 
 main body of the detachment then moved down the 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 109 
 
 river opposite the enemy ; who disclosed considera- 
 ble disorder as the advance guard opened from the 
 Woods. The British immediately fell down the riv. 
 er with the vessels and hoats. The Indians com- 
 menced a fire of musketry, and also from a four poun- 
 der, at the detachment, and their women were seen 
 running off on the road to Detroit. General Tupper 
 apprehending that his camp might be surprised, a 
 number of Indians having been observed proceeding 
 up the river, on the opposite side, ordered the de- 
 tachment to return. Having proceeded to within 
 about a mile of the encampment, some of the sol- 
 diers being pinched with hunger, their provisions 
 having for some time been exhausted, contrary to 
 orders, fired upon a drove of hogs, and pursued thern 
 nearly half a mile, and in the mean time, others 
 leaving the ranks, entered a field to gather corn, 
 who, in this situation, were attacked by a body of 
 mounted Indians, and four of their number killed. 
 The Indians then attacked the rear of the right 
 flank, but the column being instantly thrown back, 
 commenced a brisk fire upon the Indians, which caus- 
 ed them to give way ; but they soon rallied, passed 
 along the van guard, and made an impetuous chargje 
 upon the rear of the left column, which, however, 
 firmly resisted every attempt of the Indians to break 
 the line, and in twenty minutes, the Indians were 
 driven from the field. Yet apprehending that this 
 attack of the mounted men was only intended to 
 10 
 
110 LIFE OF 
 
 throw the detachment into disorder, with a view to 
 facilitate a more serious attack by the foot, the 
 right column moved forward in marching order to 
 guard against an attack upon the right flank. Be- 
 fore this column had scarcely regained their posi- 
 tion, information was received that the Indians were 
 crossing the river in considerable numbers ; upon 
 which the left column were directed to resume their 
 marching order, and General Tupper advanced to 
 the head of the right column, where he perceived 
 ';hat a body of the mounted Indians had crossed the 
 liver — that others were then crossing 5 and that 
 about 200 were on the opposite shore. A battalion 
 was immediately ordered to advance, and charge 
 those which had crossed. The charge was made 
 with spirit and success. The Indians were forced to 
 retire, and several of them were shot from their hor- 
 ses whilst crossing the river. The horses possessed 
 by the Indians on this occasion, were probably fur- 
 nished by the British, being much superior to those 
 usually used by them. They were also provided 
 with holsters and pistols. Several of the charges 
 were led on by Split Log, who was mounted on a 
 well trained white horse. He sometimes fired moun- 
 ted, and at others leaped from his horse and fired 
 from behind a tree. He was supposed to have been 
 wounded, as his horse was rode by another Indian 
 in some of the last charges. When a warrior 
 was shot from his horse, he was thrown on again 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. Ill 
 
 with an extraordinary dexterity, and carried off the 
 tleld, it being customary with the Indians to carry otf 
 their dead. Their provisions being exhausted, and 
 no other means of obtaining a supply, the detachment 
 was under the necessity of returning immediately to 
 fort M^Auther, a distance of 40 miles, through a path- 
 less wilderness. On the 13th of December, anoth- 
 er expedition, under the command of General Tup- 
 per, was fitted out for the Rapids. It consisted of 
 from 1,500 to 2000 men. On the arrival of this de- 
 tachment, they discovered, on the east side of the 
 river, a few miles above the Rapids, a body of the 
 enemy, of nearly 1000, of which 300 were Britisli 
 regulars, and 6 or 700 Indians, General Tapper 
 resolved to try the success of stratagem. He accor- 
 dingly, having acquainted himself with the position 
 of the enemy, ordered a small detachment to ad- 
 vance, commence an attack, and then retreat. This 
 artifice was attended with the expected success. The 
 detachment was pursued by the British and Indians, 
 with the greatest impetuosity, until they found them- 
 selves nearly surrounded, when the Americans mak- 
 ing a vigorous charge, they were repulsed and put to 
 flight, in the utmost disorder and confusion, and with 
 serious loss, nearly one hundred of British and In- 
 dians, principally the latter, having been left upon 
 the field, and many who plunged into the river 
 as the only means of escape, were killed in attempt- 
 ing to swim across it. 
 
112 LIFE OF 
 
 Early in January, General Winchester proceeded, 
 with the force under his command, from fort Defi- 
 ance, down the river to the Rapids. Frenchtown? 
 which is situated upon the river Raisin, having since 
 the surrender of General Hull, been entirely defence- 
 less, and exposed to the outrages of the hordes of 
 savages which surrounded the place, a number of the 
 inhabitants applied to General Winchester, on his 
 arrival, and begged of him yerj earnestly, to aiford 
 protection to that settlement. As motives of human- 
 ity often prevail against the dictates of discretion, 
 Winchester, with the unanimous advice of his offi- 
 cers, agreed to comply with this request 5 and ac- 
 cordingly, on t]ie 17th day, a detachment of about 
 750 men, under Colonel Lewis, set out from the 
 Rapids for Frenchtown. Having the following day 
 arrived within about three miles of the settlement, 
 the detachment was informed that a body of Indians 
 were encamped there, and that they were apprised 
 of the arrival of the Americans. This determined 
 Col. Lewis to form the detachment in order of battle, 
 and to cross the river on the ice. Having reached 
 the opposite shore, the ]e{t wing and centre were 
 ordered to dislodge the enemy from the houses and 
 picketing where they were collected with their can- 
 non. This order v/as successfully executed ; the 
 two battalions, forming the left wing and centre, ad^ 
 5/anced amidst a tremendous shower of musketry, 
 sunnounting the obstacles of the picketing, and fen= 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 113 
 
 cing, and charged and dislodged the enemy, who as 
 they retreated, were pursued by the right wing, to 
 the woods, a mile or more. Here they made a stand, 
 covered by a chain of enclosed lots, a group of hou- 
 ses, with a thick woods, full of fallen timber in their 
 rear. In addition to their small arms, they were 
 provided with a howitzer. The left and centre, in 
 the woods, advanced towards the main body of the 
 enemy, and commenced firing upon them, when their 
 attention being thus occupied, the right advanced 
 and drove them from the fences and houses, into the 
 woods. Here the action became very warm and se- 
 vere, between the right wing and the enemy, who 
 had concentrated their forces on that side, with a 
 view to break the line. They were, however com- 
 pelled to retreat, but only before the point of the 
 bayonet ; and although the Americans were greatly 
 fatigued, they were driven in the whole more than 
 two miles under a continual charge. The action, 
 which commenced at 3 o'clock in the afternoon, 
 continued until dark, when the detachment returned 
 and encamped at the place which the enemy, pre- 
 viously to the engagement, had occupied. The 
 force of the enemy on this occasion could not be as- 
 certained with certainty, but it was supposed to have 
 consisted of about 80, or 100 British, and 400 In- 
 dians. Their loss, as they were enabled to carry 
 most of their killed and wounded off, was equally 
 uncertain ; but from the blood, the trails of bodies 
 *10 
 
134 LIFE OF 
 
 dragged off, and the representation of the inhabitants 
 living near the scene of action, it was thought to 
 have been very great. Two of the Canadian mili- 
 tia, and one Indian were made prisoners, and a con- 
 siderable quantity of public stores was taken. The 
 detachment had twelve killed and fifty wounded. 
 
 On the 20th, the detachment was reinforced by 
 250 men, accompanied by General Winchester, who 
 assumed the command. Intelligence of these events 
 at the river Raisin, soon reached General Proctor 
 at Detroit, who immediately advanced with a force 
 of 1500 British and ladians, of whom 300 were reg- 
 ulars, to attack the Americans. He arrived on the 
 evening of the 21st, and having reconnoitred the 
 American detachment, commenced an attack upon 
 their lines the next morning, at 6 o'clock, by a heavy 
 tire of musketry, and of six pieces of field ordnance. 
 The main body of the Americans were stationed 
 within the pickets, on the right of which was a small 
 body unprotected. The fire of the enemy was very 
 severe, to which the body of troops forming the right 
 were imminently exposed 5 they, however, with 
 great firmness and gallantry, sustained the shock, 
 for a quarter of an hour, when they began to give 
 way, for the purpose of taking a position more fa- 
 vourable to their own fire, and less exposed to that 
 of the enemy. At this juncture, General Winches- 
 ter, whose quarters were three or four hundred 
 yards from the camp, arrived; who, observing the 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 115 
 
 tight giving way, exerted himself to rally them, and 
 again to form the line. His exertions, however, 
 were unavailing ; the enemy observing the right 
 giving way, concentrated their whole Indian force, 
 and most of their militia, to that quarter, and bore 
 down with redoubled violence. From the vast su- 
 periority of their numbers, and the severity of their 
 fire, the Americans were unable to form, but main- 
 tained a destructive, but unequal conflict, for some 
 time, when, having suflfered severely, all that survi- 
 ved were made prisoners. The main body stationed 
 within the pickets, maintained their position ; kept 
 up a severe contest for several hours, and repulsed 
 the British regulars, with great loss, in three succes- 
 sive charges. The conflict was continued until 
 about 10 o'clock, when General Winchester, who 
 had previously been made a prisoner, was induced to 
 accede to a capitulation, and sent a flag to the Amer- 
 icans, who were still gallantly defending themselves, 
 informing them that they were prisoners. Winches- 
 ter had been brought by the enemy as a prisoner, 
 into the part of the field where the conflict was rag- 
 ing, and threatened that if the Americans did not in- 
 stantly surrender, they should receive no quarters, 
 but be abandoned to to the fury and outrage of the 
 savages. This consideration, together with the ap- 
 prehension that further resistance would be unavail- 
 ing, induced him to agree to a capitulation. This 
 threat, barbarous a§ it was, contained an implied 
 
IIG LIFE or 
 
 promise, that it* the Americans surrendered at thai 
 time, they should be protected from violence and 
 outrage from the savages. But, instead of this, the 
 most shocking and tragical scenes ensued, the record 
 of which, attaches an indelible stain on the British 
 arms, and the honour of British officers. Humanity 
 recoils on contemplating these acts of horror, and 
 would willingly, did not truth and justice forbid it, 
 throw the veil of oblivion over them. But the tra- 
 gical events of this disastrous day, and the massacres 
 of the river Raisin, will long be remembered in wes- 
 tern America, and still longer disgrace the page of 
 history. 
 
 After the battle, the prisoners, except 50 or 60, 
 who were wounded, were carried by the British to 
 Maiden. The morning after the action, the Indians 
 who remained behind, together wnth about 50 that 
 had returned from Maiden, commenced a massacre 
 of the wounded Americans, accompanied with cir- 
 cumstances of the greatest ferocity and horror ; and 
 to complete the work of devastation and murder, the 
 houses in which they were left were set fire to, and 
 consumed, together with the remains of the unfortu- 
 nate prisoners. But the massacre did not end here. 
 The same day, a number of the prisoners who had not 
 been wounded fell victims to the savage fury of the 
 Indians, whose ferocity was so great that they would 
 not suffer their remains to be interred, but left them 
 above ground, where they were torn to pieces, and 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 117 
 
 devoured by hogs. A few days after the action, a 
 surgeon, with two assistants, was dispatched by Gen- 
 eral Harrison, with a flag of truce, to the scene of ac- 
 tion, to attend to the wounded, one of whom was 
 killed, and the others treated with the greatest rude- 
 ness and violence. The money which they had been 
 furnished with by General Harrison, for the relief of 
 the most pressing wants of the wounded, was forcibly 
 taken from them, and they themselves made prison- 
 ers, and carried to Montreal and confined. 
 
 These horrid outrages, committed by Indians in 
 the employ, and subject to the officers of a civilized 
 nation, can only find an example in the massacre at 
 fort William Henry, en lake George, during the 
 French war, in 1 757. As their character admits of no 
 palliation, so the truth of them admits of no doubt. 
 They were attested by the inhabitants of Frenchtown, 
 and by some of the officers who were afterwards 
 purchased of the Indians. 
 
 Intelligence of Lewis' having penetrated to the 
 river Raisin, reached General Harrison at Lower 
 Sandusky, from whence, supposing that he might be 
 overpowered, he immediately proceeded for the rap- 
 ids of the Miami, where he learned that Winchester 
 had gone on with a reinforcement to Lewis' detach- 
 ment. Here, intelligence of Winchester soon reach- 
 ed him, upon which he immediately ordered the force 
 under his command, consisting of 360, to prepare to 
 march for the river Raisin, and in the mean time, pro- 
 
118 LIFE OF 
 
 ceeded on himself, with his staff, to overtake and 
 hasten the march of a detachment of 300, then on 
 their march to that place. He soon overtook them 5 
 but it being ascertained that Winchester's defeat 
 was irretrievable, it was a unanimous opinion of the 
 officers, that the detachment should return. It was> 
 however, determined to dispatch a body of men, and 
 120 of the most active were selected for the purpose? 
 with directions to proceed as far as they could with 
 safety, to assist those who might be so fortunate as to 
 escape. But there were few fugitives from Win- 
 chester's army. Not scarcely eiiough escaped to 
 convey the sad tidings of the unhappy fate of their 
 countrymen. The snow was so deep that not more 
 than 40 or 50 got a mile from the seat of the action, 
 nearly all of whom were overtaken by the enemy. 
 A few escaped by proceeding down the lake and se° 
 creting themselves. 
 
 On the 23d of January, the day following Win^ 
 Chester's defeat, General Harrison left the rapids of 
 the Miami, and retreated to Carrying River, located 
 about an equal distance between that place and 
 Sandusky. The disaster upon the river Raisin, frus- 
 trated the contemplated operations of General Har» 
 rison, and rendered it necessary to raise an addition- 
 al force, which, with other necessary preparations, 
 occasioned considerable delay. In the month oi 
 February, however, he advanced again to the Rap- 
 ids, and immediately commenced the construction 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 119 
 
 of a fort, which, in honour of the patriotic Governoiir 
 of Ohio, he called Fort Meigs* This was a well con- 
 structed, strong, and large fort, enclosing about nine 
 acres of ground. It was in the form of an octagon, 
 at each corner of which was a strong block-house, 
 with cannon mounted, so as to rake each line, and 
 which commanded every elevation nearthe fort. The 
 lines between the block-houses, consisted of strong 
 picketings, fifteen ieet in height, supported by an 
 embankment, or breast-work of clay, on each side. 
 Several log batteries were also erected, and well 
 supplied with cannon. Harrison's force consisting 
 principally of militia, and the term of service of a 
 large proportion of which, having expired, the Gov- 
 ernour of Kentucky, the venerable and patriotic 
 Shelby, being apprised of his situation, ordered 1200 
 of the mihtia of that state, into service, under Gene- 
 ral Green Clay, destined to reinforce Harrison's 
 army. 
 
 They rendezvoused at Cincinnati ; from whence 
 early in April, they commenced their march, and ar- 
 rived near fort Meigs, on the 4th of May, having as- 
 certained that the fort was besieged by a large force 
 of British and Indians, under General Proctor. — 
 Proctor's force consisted of about 1000 British, and 
 1200 Indians, with which he left Detroit, for fort 
 Meigs, about the middle of April, with the expecta- 
 tion of capturing the fort, before the garrison could 
 be reinforced ; but heavy and incessant rains retard- 
 
120 LIFE OF 
 
 iDg his operations, he did not open his batteries un- 
 til the first of May. The cannonading from the ene- 
 my's batteries was returned from the fort, and a brisk 
 fire maintained on both sides from the first until the 
 fifth of May, when a small party from General Clay's 
 detachment reached the fort, and communicated the 
 pleasing intelligence that the main body were at a 
 short distance. On receiving this information, Gene- 
 ral Harrison dispatched orders to Clay, to proceed 
 with the force under his command down the river in 
 his boats ; to land 800 men upon the left bank of the 
 river, to charge the enemy's batteries and spike 
 their cannon. The remainder of his force was to be 
 landed on the right bank, and to be aided by a sortie 
 from the garrison. The detachment on the left suc- 
 ceeded in the attack ; the enemy's batteries were 
 taken and their cannon spiked, yet these advantages 
 were dearly purchased ; for, instead of crossing the 
 river and returning to the fort, their ardour was so 
 great, that they furiously pursued the enemy, who re- 
 treated into the woods, where they were surrounded 
 and the principal part of them made prisoners. The 
 Indians succeeded also in possessing themselves of a 
 considerable part of the baggage, which was in the 
 boats ; but the disasters of this affair were not without 
 their accompanying advantages. The Indians, in 
 spite of the exertions of the British officers and of 
 their chiefs, retired to their villages with their plun- 
 der, which is their usual custom after any signal 
 
OLI\£R H. PERRY. 121 
 
 aaccess. This circumstance, together with that of 
 the reinforcements which the garrison had received 
 from the residue of Clay's detachment, materially 
 changed the aspect of affairs, and General Proctor, 
 instead of continuing his offensive operations, be- 
 came alarmed for his own security, and having dis- 
 posed of his ordnance on board of a sloop, on the 
 9th of May, made a precipitate retreat. 
 
 The command of the lake, which the British pos- 
 sessed at this period, gave great facility to their op- 
 erations ; and subsequently to their retreat from fort 
 Meigs, they made a number of movements indicating 
 hostile designs upon that fort, and the forts at Low- 
 er Sandusky, Cleveland and Eric. But no attack 
 was made upon any of these forts, except that at 
 Lower Sandusky, the result of which was so highly 
 honourable to the gallant, youthful hero who com- 
 manded it. 
 
 The first of August, Proctor, with a force of 500 
 regulars, and 7 or SCO Indians, appeared before that 
 place, and having so disposed of his troops as to cut 
 off the retreat of the garrison, he dispatched Colonel 
 Elliot and Major Cham])er3, with a flag of truce, to 
 demand the surrender of the fort; which was urged 
 by a suggestion of the anxiety which he felt to spare 
 the effusion of blood, and that, considering the char- 
 acter of his forces, it would not probably be in his 
 power to do this, if he was driven to the necessity of 
 taking the place by storm. To this demand, ac- 
 11 
 
122 LIFE Of 
 
 companied with an implied threat of the garrison's 
 being abandoned to the fury of the savages, in case 
 of the capture of the fort by assault, its commander 
 Major Croghan, a youth of 21 years of age, returned 
 for answer, that he was determined to defend the 
 place to the last extremity, and prepared to meet 
 any force which they might have at their disposal. — 
 On the return of the flag, a brisk fire was commenced 
 upon the fort, and kept up with little intermission 
 from the gun boats in the river, and a howitzer on 
 shore. During the night, three sixes were placed 
 within 250 yards of the pickets, from which a heavy 
 cannonade upon the fort was began early in the morn- 
 ing, but with little effect. In the afternoon. Major 
 Croghan, perceiving that the enemy's fire was con- 
 centrated against the north-west angle of the fort, 
 was induced to believe that it was their intention to 
 make a breach at that point, and then to attempt 
 ihere to storm the works. To defeat the purposes 
 of the enemy, he immediately employed what men 
 could be spared, in strengthening that part of the 
 fort, which was so effectually secured with bags of 
 tlour, sand, and other articles, that the picketing sus- 
 tained little or no injury from the enemy's fire. Yet 
 this did not deter the enemy from their intended as- 
 sault. Accordingly, about 500 men formed in 
 close column, advanced to storm the works at the 
 expected point, making at the same time, two feints 
 on other parts of the fort. Of the 500 men, about 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 1 2o 
 
 350 advanced against the north-west angle, which 
 were not discovered until thej had approached with- 
 in eighteen or twenty paces of the lines, being envel- 
 oped in a cloud of smoke ; but they were no sooner 
 observed, the men being all at their posts, than a 
 well directed and galling fire was opened upon them, 
 which threw the column into considerable confusion ; 
 but being soon rallied, it advanced to the outer works 
 and began to leap into the ditch. At this moment a 
 raking and destructive fire of grape, from a six poun- 
 der, which had previously been so mounted and pre- 
 pared, as to admit of such a direction, was opened 
 upon the assailants, and also a brisk fire of musketry, 
 which cut them down in every direction, and threw 
 them into such disorder and confusion, that they soon 
 fled precipitately into the woods, leaving most of 
 their killed and wounded, in and about the ditch.— 
 The assault lasted nearly half an hour, during which 
 the enemy's artillery, consisting of five sixes, and a 
 howitzer, kept up an incessant fire upon the works, 
 but with Uttle etlect. 
 
 An instance of humanity occurred on this occasion 
 too honourable to be omitted. During the assault, 
 the enemy's wounded being observed in the ditch, 
 writhing with pain, and burning with thirst, the sol- 
 diers in the fort supplied them with water, by throw- 
 ing down to them full canteens. The whole loss of 
 the enemy, in this attack, in killed, wounded and 
 prisoners, was silpposed to have exceeded one hum- 
 
124 
 
 LIFE OF 
 
 dred and fifty. There were Ibuiul in and about the 
 rretich, either killed or wounded, one Lieutenant Co- 
 lonel, orii^ Lieutenant, and fifty ninkand file. Those 
 of the vvoJinded, who were able, made their escape, 
 and many, both of killed and wounded, were carried 
 off by the Indians, during the night. The gallant 
 garrison which made this brave and almost unexam- 
 pled defence, did not exceed IGO men. Their loss 
 was one killed, and seven slightly wounded. The 
 enemy, leaving behind a boat containing a considera- 
 ble quantity of military stores and clothing, proceed- 
 ed down the river, about three in the morning. 
 Subsequently, several stand of arms, and several 
 brace of pistols, were found near the works. 
 
 General Proctor, a few days after this repulse, dis- 
 patched a surgeon, with a flag, to assist in taking care 
 of the wounded, and also to request, that such of the 
 prisoners as were in a situation to be removed, might 
 be allowed to return to Maiden, on his (Proctor's) 
 parole of honour, that they should not serve, unless 
 regularly exchanged. In reply, General Harrison 
 stated that Major Croghan, under the influence of 
 those humane principles whicli are held sacred in the 
 American army, had caused all the care to be bestow- 
 ed, and assistance to be rendered to the wounded 
 prisoners, of which his situation would admit — that 
 his hospital surgeon had, agreeably to directions, be- 
 stowed upon them particular attention, and he felt 
 autliorised to sav. that ail the assisfance that could 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 125 
 
 be expected from surgical skill, would be alTorded 
 them ; and that they had been liberally furnished 
 with every article required by their situation, which 
 the hospital stores could supply. As to the return 
 of the prisoners to Maiden, he observed; that having 
 applied to his government for orders relative to the 
 disposal of the prisoners, he could not with propriety 
 comply with his request of an immediate exchange ; 
 hut added, that so far as it depended upon him, the 
 course of treatment which had been began towards 
 the prisoners, would be continued while they might 
 remain in his possession. 
 
 Such was the conduct of the Americans towards 
 the prisoners, which the fortune of war had placed 
 in their power. War in its mildest aspect, and con- 
 ducted upon the most liberal principles, is a suffi- 
 cient evil ; and it is due to civilization, and the light 
 which science and philosophy have shed upon society, 
 to smooth its harsh features, to soften its ferocious 
 spirit, and to observe such belligerant principles as, 
 whilst they give the greatest developement to the 
 national energies, occasion the least violation of the 
 rights of individuals. It was from these principles, 
 held sacred by the Americans, that the wounded pris- 
 oners at Sandusky experienced the greatest humani- 
 ty. How different from the treatment which the 
 American prisoners experienced at Frenchtown. — 
 There, the surgeon, commissioned to aid suffering 
 humanity, was treated with the greatest rudeness. 
 
126 LITE OF 
 
 made a prisoner himself, and scarcely escaped with 
 his life, one of his companions being actually killed. 
 Here, the surgeon, in tlie same sacred cause, was 
 treated with the utmost politeness, and only dismis- 
 sed because his services were not wanted, the pris- 
 oners having already received every attention. 
 Here, the prisoners were supplied with water during 
 the attack, and afterwards sacredly protected. 
 There, the unfortunate American prisoners, compri- 
 sing many of the noblest sons of Kentucky, were 
 abandoned to the fury of the savages, and, to the 
 ^» British boast of victory, was added the frightfu;! 
 YclJ of the savage war whoop." 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 127 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 Remarks on the vicissitudes of war — Perry arrives with his 
 squadron off the mouth of Sandusky river — sails and reconnoi- 
 tres the enemy at Maiden^ and relnrns to Put-in-Bay — re- 
 iaarks on the repose which preceded the action, and its impor- 
 tance—particular account of the action of the 10th September 
 — some incidents and anecdotes— force of the two fleets — their 
 loss — remains on the victory — the fleet concentrates the troops 
 at Put'in-Bay — lands them below Maiden — the enemy evucu- 
 ates that place — is pursued to Sandwich — thence to the Mora- 
 vian town on the Thames — the decisive victory at that place, 
 and capture of Proctor's army—humanity of the Americans 
 — the troops return to Detroit — Indians sue for peace— provis- 
 ional government established in the conquered district of Up- 
 per Canada — Harrison and Perry proceed doivn the lake to 
 Buffalo. 
 
 The vicissitudes of human affairs are perhaps- 
 no where so conspicuous as in the events of war. — 
 Authentic history, which must ever remain an unim- 
 peachable and faithful witness of human transactions, 
 affords ample proof of this proposition. However 
 great the combination of physical means, and the 
 skill and experience in the direction of them, there 
 can be no assurance of an uninterrupted course of 
 success. When the means are vastly disproportion^ 
 ate J the scales of power are often ballanced by ine- 
 
128 LIPE OF 
 
 quality of skill, or of ardour. Climate, also, forms a 
 permanent barrier to the extension of power, and 
 frequently even the elements themselves seem to in- 
 terpose to protect the weak from the strong. 
 
 The dominioH of casualty is nowhere so firmly es- 
 tablished, as in war ; and often a mere accident, 
 which no experience could have pointed out, and no 
 sagacity have foreseen, may give a turn to its events 
 and decide the fate of battles, and of empires. But 
 i^ we were to throw out of the scale all adventitious 
 causes, and allow to superior means and superior 
 skill, all that their greatest advocates claim for them, 
 still the uncertainty of belligerant operations, is suffi- 
 ciently conspicuous. What security, for the shortest 
 period, is there, of the maintenace of superiority of 
 means, or even of superior skill? The former is it- 
 self subject to a thousand vicissitudes, and the latter 
 suddenly acquired, if it is not suddenly lost ; and in- 
 deed, in a war of any continuance, the skill employ- 
 ed in it, tends to a common standard — the party that 
 is without skill and experience, constantly profiting 
 from the one that possesses them. Upon this prin- 
 ciple, success is not only the precursor, but often the 
 cause of defeat. Had it not been for the battle of 
 Narva, in which Charles the XII, with 8000 Swedes 
 conquered 80,000 Russians, this same hero would not 
 probably have been defeated at Pultov/a. From the 
 uncertainty of the events of war, we are admonished 
 of the instability of human power, and of the folly 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY, i'29 
 
 as well as criminality of using it for the purposes of 
 tyranny, oppression and inhumanity. An abuse of 
 power, which arises only from the fortune of war, 
 evinces a weakness of head, as well as depravity of 
 heart; and it is usually the case that it is speedily 
 visited by retributive justice. 
 
 From the commencement of hostilities, down to 
 the gallant and successful defence of fort Sandusky, a 
 period of nearly fourteen months, the events of the 
 war upon the north-western frontier, had, with few 
 exceptions, been peculiarly unfortunate and disas- 
 trous. These disasters were all directly, or indi- 
 rectly attributable to the extraordinary capitulation 
 of General Hull ; which not only surrendered to the 
 enemy an entire army, an important military post, 
 and the territory of Michigan, but, what was infinite- 
 ly more important, laid open a frontier of nearly a 
 thousand miles in extent, being too a new country? 
 without improvements, and but thinly settled, and 
 contributed, with the exertions of the British, to call 
 forth the " northern hive of Indians," whose savage 
 ferocity was rendered more dreadful, as the destruc- 
 tive implements and means of warfare, which have 
 proceeded from civilization, were put into their 
 liands. 
 
 Until the severe repulse which the enemy sustain- 
 ed at Sandusky, the " tide of war" had set strongly 
 in their favour ; but from that period, the complex- 
 ion of thinsjs was chansjed, and thev in their turn, 
 
130 LIFE OF 
 
 were destined to experience the sad and distressing 
 vicissitudes, inseparable fronrt a state of warfare. 
 
 After the affair at Sandusky, General Harrison 
 was engaged in making arrangements for an attack 
 upon Maiden, in which he expected the co-opera- 
 tion of Commodore Perry; and to make the neces- 
 sary arrangements for which, Perry appeared with 
 his squadron off the mouth of Sandusky river, as has 
 already been stated. Here the General and the 
 Commodore determined upon the course of fu- 
 ture operations. It seems to have been resolved, 
 that, instead of attempting the reduction of Maiden 
 by a conjoint attack of the land and naval forces, it 
 was expedient, first to attempt to obtain the command 
 of the Lake ; and so far as it respected offensive op- 
 erations, to risque the whole objects of the campaign 
 upon the issue of a naval action. Without deciding 
 from the result, which is too often a fallacious mode 
 of testing the propriety of a measure, there can be no 
 doubt as to the wisdom of tlie policy adopted on this 
 accasion. It was evident that a naval victory, which 
 should give us the command of the lake, would be 
 likely to induce the enemy to evacuate Maiden, and 
 afford the most important facilities to the operations 
 of the troops ; and, on the other hand, it was scarce- 
 ly less evident that if our troops had been landed at 
 Maiden, for the reduction of that place, and (he ene- 
 my should afterwards have acquired the mastery of 
 the lake, th^y would not only have been checked in 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. l31 
 
 their offensive operation, but placed in a critical sit- 
 uation. 
 
 Having determined, before attempting any opera- 
 tions of the troops, to decide who should be masters 
 of the lake. Perry sailed from Sandusky with his fleet 
 to Maiden, as previously stated, where the enemy's 
 squadron lay, and attempted to draw them out to en- 
 gage them ; but, being unable to do it, he retired to 
 Put-in-Bay. We had proceeded with the Commo- 
 dore thus far, previously to entering upon a detail of 
 the events of war upon this frontier. The distance 
 between Put-in-Bay and Maiden is only 35 miles ; so 
 that the two squadrons and the two commanders re- 
 mained within this short distance of each other, for 
 several days previous to the action, in a state of in- 
 activity and suspense. What must have been their 
 reflections during this interval, we will not undertake 
 to conjecture. There are few spectacles more sub- 
 lime and none more impressive, than that of two hostile 
 armies, or two hostile fleets, situated in the neigh- 
 bourhood of each other, reposing only as preparato- 
 ry to commencing the awful work of death. It is an 
 awful pause, and a calm which appears most profound 
 from the mind's associating it with what is to follow, 
 just as the stillness is the greatest, which precedes 
 the tempest. 
 
 This scene is more sublime and impressive than 
 that of the same hostile parties, when engaged in 
 battle ; then other sensations are produced those 
 
13'2 LIFE OF 
 
 of horror and sympathy — of hope and fear; all 
 the passions being greatly agitated. But during the 
 repose which precedes an engagennent, the mind is 
 cool, unagitated and susceptible of deep impressions 
 from the impending storm, upon which the fate of 
 thousands of our fellow-men, and sometimes the des- 
 tiny of nations may depend. If such woiild be the 
 impressions of an observer, what must be the feel- 
 ings of those who are about to engage themselves in 
 the "bloody strife ?" And what must be the reflections 
 of the commanders, who are in some measure ra 
 ponsible for the result, and who have a personal stake 
 greater than that of life — their reput^ition ? This con- 
 test, in every point of view, must have been consid- 
 ered as Oi the greatest importance. The dominion 
 of the lake was depending upon it; the result of the 
 campaign, and the security of on extensive frontier* 
 But in addiiion to these objects, there was one v/hicji 
 must have more deeply impressed the mind of Per- 
 ry, and of the British commander. They knew that 
 this would be the tirst trial of skill between the Brit- 
 ish and Americans, in an engagement between two 
 squadrons. Upon the ocean, several actions betwee. 
 single frigates and ships had taken place, in all ot 
 which, the skill and bravery of American seamen had 
 appeared conspicuous. The capture of the Gur- 
 vicre, the Macedonian, the Frolic, &c., had broken the 
 nharm of British invincibility, as it respected engage- 
 nrmts between single ships ; but it y^t remained to 
 
OLIVEia H. PERRY- l3:i 
 
 be determined whether in an action between two 
 fleets, the relative skill, seamanship and bravery of 
 the two parties, would be the same as in actions of 
 single vessels of war. The British commander had 
 hi-s own, and his country's reputation to maintain ; 
 and the American hero had his own, and, in some 
 measure, his country's reputation to acquire, as it 
 respected a naval action of this description. Such 
 were the circumstances under which the two com- 
 manders reposed, previously to the action of the 
 iOth of September — -an action almost" unexampled in 
 the annals of naval warfare. 
 
 We extract the following circumstantial and mi- 
 nute account of this action, which was drawn up by an 
 eye-witness,* as being preferable to any thing which 
 we could write upon the subject : 
 
 " On the morning of the !Oth of September, at 
 sunrise, the enemy were discovered bearing down 
 from Maiden, for the evident purpose of attacking 
 our squadron, then at anchor in Put-in-Bay. Not a 
 moment was to be lost. Perry's squadron immedi- 
 ately got under way, and stood out to meet the Brit 
 ish fleet, which at this time had the weather gage. 
 At 10 A. M. the wind shifted from S. W. to S. E. 
 which brought our squadron to windward. The 
 wind was light— the day beautiful. Not a cloud ob- 
 scured the horizon. The line was formed at 11, and 
 
 *The editor of the Museum. 
 12 
 
134 LIFE or 
 
 Commodore Perrj caused an elegant flag, which he 
 had privately prepared, to be hoisted at the mast 
 head of the Lawrence. On this flag was painted, in 
 characters legible to the whole fleet, the dying words 
 o{ the immortal Lawrence : — " don't give up the 
 SHIP." Its effect is not to be described — every 
 heart was electrified. The crews cheered — the ex- 
 hilarating can was passed. Both fleets appeared ea- 
 ger for the conflict, on the result of which so much 
 depended. At 15 minutes before 12, the Detroit, 
 the headmost ship of the enemy, opened upon the 
 Lawrence, which for ten minutes, was obliged to 
 sustain a well directed and heavy fire from the ene- 
 my's two large ships, without being able to return it 
 with carronades; at 5 minutes before 12, the Law- 
 rence opened upon the enemy. The other vessels 
 were ordered to support her, but the wind at this 
 time was too light to enable them to come up. Ev- 
 ery brace and bowline of the Lawrence being soon 
 shot away, she became unmanageable, and in this 
 situation, sustained the action upwards of two hours, 
 within canister distance, until every gun was ren- 
 dered useless, and but a small part of her crew left 
 unhurt upon deck. 
 
 " At half past two the wind increased, and en- 
 abled the Niagara to come into close action— the 
 gun-boats took a nearer position. Commodore Per- 
 ry left his ship in charge of Lieutenant Yarnel. and 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY, 135 
 
 went on board the Niagara.* Just as he reached 
 that vessel, the flag of the Lawrence came down. 
 The crisis had arrived. Captain Elliot at this mo- 
 ment anticipated the wishes of the Commodore, by 
 volunteering his services to bring the schooners into 
 close action. 
 
 " At forty-five minutes past two, the signal was 
 made for close action. The Niagara being very lit- 
 tle injured, and her crew fresh, the Commodore de- 
 termined to pass through the enemy's line. He ac- 
 cordingly bore up and passed ahead of the Detroit, 
 Queen Charlotte, and Lady Prevost, pouring a ter- 
 rible raking fire into them from the starboard guns, 
 and on the Chippewa and Little Belt, from the lar- 
 board side, at half pistol shot distance. The small 
 
 *This circumstance isau extraordinary evidence of presence of 
 mind, and of cool intrepidity ; and probably decided the fate of 
 the action. A crisis had arrived, and the scale which at that 
 time was made to preponderate, conld hardly fail of bearing 
 down its opposite. The nnlnjnred condition of the Niagara and 
 the small vessels, and their crews being fresh, when brought into' 
 close action, gave them in some measure, the character of a re- 
 inforcement, and that, at the very point of time which was to de- 
 cide the result of the action. Perry entered the boat in the 
 most intrepid and gallant manner; and although imminently ex , 
 posed, several broadsides being leveled at the boat, and sliow- 
 ers of musketry from three oi" the enemy's vessels, which were 
 within musket shot, poured upon it, he remained standing in ihe 
 boat's stern, until absolutely pulled down by the crew. Those 
 of the crew of the Lawrence, who remained behind, eyed him 
 
136 LIFE OF 
 
 vessels at this time having got within grape and can- 
 ister distance, kept up a well directed and destruc- 
 tive fire. The action now raged with the greatest 
 i'ury. The Queen Charlotte, having lost her com- 
 mander, and several of her principal officers, in a mo- 
 ment of confusion, got foul of the Detroit. In this 
 situation, the enemy in their turn had to sustain a tre- 
 mendous fire, without the power of returning it with 
 much effect. The carnage was horrible. The flags 
 of the Detroit, Queen Chaxlottee, and Lady Prevost, 
 were struck in rapid succession. The brig Hunter, 
 and schooner Chippewa, were soon compelled to 
 follow the example. The Little Belt attempted to 
 escape to Maiden, but she was pursued by two of 
 the gun-boats, and surrendered, about three miles 
 distant from the scene of action. 
 
 with a breathless solicitncle, ia this critical scene of peril, the 
 balls striking around hira in every direction, and beheld, with a 
 transport of joy, his flag hoisted at theraast head of the Niagara, 
 'i his clrc iinistatice of Periy's leaving his ship, which had be- 
 come disabled, in a boat, during the rage and confusion of the 
 action, and hoisting his flag onboard of another ship, has, we 
 believe, few examples. There is, however, one very distin- 
 guished one. In the action off the mouth of the Texel, during the 
 second Duti h war, in 1673. between the famous Dutch Admirals 
 De Riiyter and Tromp, and the English Admirals Prince Rupert 
 and Sprague ; the latter left his ship twice during the action, 
 and the last time was drowned, a shot having struck his boat as 
 he wa;. passinr to hoist his flag on board of a third ship, the two 
 i-jit lu V. iiich he had fought, having been cut to pieces. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 137 
 
 *^ The writer of this account, in company with five 
 others, arrived at the head of Put-in-Bay island, on 
 the evening of the 9th, and had a view of the action 
 at the distance of only ten miles. The spectacle 
 was truly grand and awful. The firing was inces- 
 sant, for the space of three hours, and continued at 
 short intervals, forty-five minutes longer. In less 
 than one hour after the battle began, most of the ves- 
 sels of both fleets were enveloped in a cloud of smoke, 
 which rendered the issue of the action uncertain, 
 till the next morning, when we visited the fleet in 
 the harbour, on the opposite side of the island. The 
 reader will easily judge of our solicitude to learn the 
 result. There is no sentiment more painful than 
 suspense, when it is excited by the uncertain issue of 
 an event like this. 
 
 '' If the wind had continued at S. W. it was the 
 intention of Admiral Barclay to have boarded our 
 squadron. For this purpose he had taken on board 
 of his fleet about 200 of the famous 41st regiment. 
 They acted as marines, and fought bravely ; but 
 nearly two thirds of them were either killed or 
 wounded. 
 
 " The carnage on board the prizes was prodigious. 
 They must have lost 200 in killed, besides wounded. 
 The sides of the Detroit and Queen Charlotte, were 
 shattered from bow to stern. There was scarcely 
 room to place one's hand on their larboard sides, 
 without touching the impression of a shot. A great 
 
 *12- 
 
138 LIFE OF 
 
 many balls, canister and grape, were found lodged 
 in their bulwarks, which were too thick to be pene- 
 trated by our carronades, unless within pistol shot 
 distance. Their masts were so much shattered 
 that they fell overboard soon after they got iato 
 the bay. 
 
 '• The loss of the Americans was severe, particu- 
 larly on board the Lawrence. When her flag was 
 struck, she had but nine men fit for duty, remaining 
 on deck. Her sides were completely riddled by the 
 shot from the long guns of the British ships. Her 
 deck, the morning after the conflict, when I first 
 went on board, exhibited a scene that defies descrip- 
 tion — for it was literally covered with blood, which 
 still adhered to the plank in clots — brains, hair, and 
 fragments of bones were still sticking to the rigging 
 and sides. The surgeons were still busy v/ith the 
 wounded. Enough! horror appalled my senses. 
 
 " Among the wounded were several brave fellows, 
 each of whom had lost a leg or an arm. They ap- 
 peared cheerful, and expressed a hope that they had 
 done their duty. Rome and Sparta would have been 
 proud of these heroes. 
 
 " It would be invidious to particularize instances Of 
 individual merit, where every one so nobly perform- 
 ed his part. Of the nine seamen remaining unhurt 
 at the time the Lawrence struck her flag, five were 
 immediately promoted, for their unshaken firmness, 
 in such a trying situation. The most of the&e 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 139 
 
 had been in the actions with the Guerriere and 
 Java. 
 
 ^' Every officer of the Lawrence, except the Com- 
 modore and his Uttle brother, a promising youth, 13 
 years old, were either killed or wounded. 
 
 " The efficacy of the gun-boats was fully proved 
 in this action, and the sterns of all the prizes bear am- 
 ple testimony of the fact. They took raking posi- 
 tions, and galled the enemy severely. The Lady 
 Prevost lost twelve men before either of the brigs 
 fired on her. Their fire was quick and precise. Let 
 us hear the enemy. The general order of Adjutant 
 General Baynes, contains the following words : " His 
 (Perry's) numerous gun boats, (four) which had pro- 
 ved the greatest annoyance during the action, were 
 all uninjured." 
 
 " The undaunted bravery of Admiral Barclay, en- 
 titled him to a better fate. To the loss of the day, 
 was superadded grievous and dangerous wounds. — 
 He had before lost an arm ; it was now his hard 
 fortune to lose the other, by a shot which carried 
 away the blade of the right shoulder ; a canister shot 
 made a violent contusion in his hip. His wounds 
 were for some days considered mortal. Every pos- 
 sible attention was paid to his situation. When 
 Commodore Perry sailed for Buffalo, he was so far 
 recovered, that he took passage on board our fleet. 
 The fleet touched at Erie. The citizens saw the af- 
 fecting spectacle of Harrison and Perry, leading the 
 
140 LIFE OF ' 
 
 wounded British hero, still unable to walk without 
 help, from the beach to their lodgings. 
 
 " On board the Detroit, twenty-four hours after 
 her surrender, were found, snugly stowed away in 
 the hold, two Indian Chiefs, who had the courage 
 to go on board at Maiden, for the purpose of acting 
 as sharp shooters, to kill o'lv officers. One had the 
 courage to ascend into the round top, and discharge 
 his piece, but the whizzing of shot, splinters, and bits 
 of rigging, soon made the place too warm for him — 
 He descended faster than he went up. At the mo- 
 ment he reached the deck, the fragments ^bf a sea- 
 man's head struck his comrade's face, and covered it 
 with blood and brains. He vociferated the savage 
 interjection " quoW and both sought safety below. 
 
 " The British officers had domesticated a bear at 
 Maiden. Bruin accompanied his comrades to bat- 
 tle — was on the deck of the Detroit during the en- 
 gagement, and escaped unhurt. 
 
 " The killed of both fleets were thrown overboard 
 as fast as they fell. Several were washed ashore up- 
 on the island and the main, during the gales that suc- 
 ceeded the action. 
 
 " Commodore Perry treated the prisoners with 
 humanity and indulgence. Several Canadians, heav- 
 ing wives at Maiden, were pernjitted to visit their 
 families on parole. 
 
 " The British were superior in the length and num- 
 her of Iheir guns, as well as in the number of men. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. I4't' 
 
 The American fleet was manned with a motley set 
 of beings, Europeans, Africans, Americans, from ev- 
 ery part of the United States. Full one fourth were 
 blacks. I saw one Russian, who could not speak a 
 word of English. They were brave — and who could 
 be otherwise under the command of Perry ? 
 
 " The day after the battle, the funeral obsequies 
 of the American and British officers, who had fallen in 
 the action, were performed in an appropriate and af- 
 fecting manner. An opening on the margin of the 
 bay, was selected for the interment of the bodies. — 
 The cr6ws of both fleets attended. The weather 
 was fine. The elements seemed to participate in the 
 solemnities of the day, for every breeze was hushed? 
 and not a wave ruflled the surface of the water. The 
 procession of boats — the neat appearance of the of- 
 ficers and men — the music — the slow and regular mo- 
 tion of the oars, striking in exact time with the notes 
 of the solemn dirge — the mournful waving of the 
 flags — the sound of the minute guns from the diflfer- 
 ent ships in the harbour — the wild and solitary aspect 
 of the place — the stillness of nature, gave to the 
 scene an air of melancholy grandeur, better felt than 
 described. All acknowledged its influence — all were 
 sensibly affected. What a contrast did it exhibit to 
 the terrible conflict of the preceding day ! Then the 
 people of two squadrons were engaged in the deadly 
 strife of arms. Now they associated, like brothers^ 
 
142 LITE OF 
 
 to pay the last sad tribute of respect to the dead of 
 both nations. 
 
 " Five officers were interred, two American and 
 three British. Lieutenant Brooks and Midshipman 
 Laub, oir the Lawrence j Captain Finnis, and Lieu- 
 tenant Stoke, of the Queen Charlotte, and Lieuten- 
 ant Garland, of the Detroit. The graves are but a 
 few paces from the beach, and the future traveller of 
 cither nation, will find no memento whereby he may 
 distinguish the American from the British hero. 
 
 " The marines of our fleet were highlj complimen- 
 ted by the Commodore, for their good conduct ; al- 
 though it was the first time most of them had seen a 
 square rigged vessel." 
 
 From ihe general description of an engagement, 
 we can form but an imperfect idea of the particular 
 merit or services of individuals ; nor does such a de- 
 scription present any distinct images to the mind. — 
 All general ideas are more or less vague and indis- 
 tinct, and consequently are incapable of deeply inter- 
 esting the feelings. We read the account of an ar- 
 my's being annihilated, and of a ship's being sunk, 
 with comparatively little emotion ; but who can pe- 
 ruse the minute detail of the sufferings and perils of 
 an individual, without the most Hvely sympathy and 
 concern. In contemplating action, or suffering, 
 our ideas must be faint and indistinct, where we 
 have not a clear, precise, and definite notion of the 
 agent who acts or suffers.— Hence, in speaking of 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 143 
 
 the achievements or the sufferings of an army or of a 
 fleet, our views can be distinct only so far as they 
 are particular. The general and complex idea of 
 an army, or any other body of men, cannot be entire- 
 ly abstracted from the particular ideas of the indi- 
 viduals composing it ; and the mind, when contem- 
 plating their acts or sufferings, constantly exerts it- 
 self to render its general and confused ideas, more 
 particular and distinct, or in other words, to ascer- 
 tain whRtjndividuals performed and suffered. This 
 gives uajptinct perceptions, and interests our feel- 
 ings. Tne exploits of an army cannot excite emula- 
 tion, nor their sufferings sympathy ; but those of 
 their commander, or any other individual may. — 
 From these considerations, we shall detail some dis- 
 tinct and insulated facts, connected with this memo- 
 rable action, which may give a more lively and per- 
 spicuous idea of the character and spirit of it — of 
 the services and merit of Perry, and other individu- 
 als, and of the general scene of desperate fighting, 
 peril and distress. 
 
 The carnage on board the Lawrence being dread- 
 ful, many men were swept away from the side of 
 the Commodore. An incident of this kind evinced 
 the coolness and presence of mind which prevailed 
 among the officers. The second Lieutenant of the 
 Lawrence, standing close by Perry, was struck in 
 the breast by a chain shot, which, having passed 
 through the bulwark, was so far spent as to have no 
 
144 LIFE GF 
 
 other effect than to knock him down. The shot 
 lodged in the bosom of his waistcoat. He fell, stun- 
 ned by the violence of the blow. Perry approach- 
 ing him, and perceiving no blood, nor marks of a 
 wound, observed that he thought he could not be 
 hurt. Upon this the Lieutenant, having revived, 
 pulled the shot out of his bosom, and exclaiming 
 " no sir, but this is my shot," thrust it with great 
 sangfroid., into his pocket. 
 
 Lieutenant Yarnell, of the Lawrence, was distin- 
 guished throughout the action, for his cool intrepidi- 
 ty. He was dressed hke a common seaman, and had 
 a red bandanna handkerchief tied round his neck, 
 and another round his head, having been applied to 
 staunch two wounds which he had received. He had 
 also been wounded by a splinter in the nose, which 
 was terribly swollen. From these several wounds 
 the blood was trinkling down his face, and dropping 
 on his garments, giving him a peculiarly hideous and 
 frightful appearance. In this plight, looking like the 
 very genius of carnage, when the action raged with 
 the greatest fury, he approached the Commodore, 
 and informed him that all the officers of his division 
 were killed. Perry ordered others in their place. 
 Soon after, the valiant Lieutenant returned with the 
 same sad tidings that all his officers were killed or 
 wounded. " Then sir," said Perry, " you must 
 endeavour to make out yourself— I have no more 
 -to furnish you." 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 145 
 
 During the action, Perry observed that a brave 
 and favourite sailor, then captain of a gun, found 
 great difficulty in managing it, the forelock having 
 been broken. Perry approaching him in his usual 
 affable and encouraging manner, enquired what was 
 the matter. The honest tar exhibiting signs of just 
 vexation, turned round and exclaimed, " Sir, my gun 
 behaves shamefully — shamefully." Then he level- 
 ed his piece, and having taken aim, raised himself 
 up in a fine martial style, as if wishing to appear to 
 the best, advantage in the presence of the Commo- 
 dore, when he was suddenly struck in the breast by 
 a cannon ball, which passed through him, and he 
 fell dead without a groan. 
 
 Soon after Perry had entered on board the Niaga- 
 ra, whilst standing on the quarter deck, a sailor who 
 commanded one of the guns having had all of his 
 men shot down, approached Perry, and laying his 
 hands on his shoulders, exclaimed, '* for God's sake, 
 sir, give me some more men." This fact is a strik- 
 ing illustration of the spirit and animation which pre- 
 vailed among all ranks, and that both body and mind 
 were so engaged in the conflict, and intent on victo- 
 ry, as to have lost all sense of personal danger. This 
 valiant tar, although all his men had been killed or 
 wounded before his eyes, and by his very side, does 
 not appear to have a thought about his own danger — 
 He only thought of more men to man his gun, that he 
 might continue to annoy the enemy. 
 13 
 
146 LIFE OF 
 
 At the time Perry, with the Niagara, passed the 
 enemy's line, giving a broadside to the Lady Prevost, 
 Lieutenant Buchan, who commanded that vessel, 
 was shot through the face by a musket ball. The 
 two vessels being within half pistol shot distance, ev- 
 ery thing which occurred on board either, could be 
 distinctly seen from the other. The Lady Prevost 
 being terribly cut to pieces, and unable to withstand 
 the desperate fire of the Niagara, the men all ran be- 
 low, excepting her commander, who was observed 
 on deck, leaning on the companion way, with his 
 face on his hand, gazing with fixed stare, and appar- 
 ent amazement, at his enemies. Perry immediately 
 ordered the firing to cease. It was afterwards ascer- 
 tained that this strange conduct of Lieutenant Bu- 
 «:han, who was a brave officer, and distinguished in 
 the battle of the Nile, was occasioned by sudden de- 
 rangement, which his wound had produced. 
 
 " While Perry was engaged at close quarters, in 
 the Niagara, Lieutenant Turner, a fine, bold, young 
 sailor, who commanded the brig Caledonia of three 
 guns, spreading every sail, endeavoured to get into 
 action. His fore sail interfered between him and the 
 enemy ; but rather than take in an inch of canvass, 
 he ordered his men to fire through it. Seeing the 
 Commodore engaged in the thickest of the fight, he 
 proposed to the commander of another small vessel, 
 to board the Detroit ; the other, however, prudently 
 declined the rash, but gallant proposal." 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 147 
 
 " The affecting fate of Lieutenant Brooks, of the 
 marines, presents an awful picture of the scenes 
 which the warrior witnesses in battle — his favourite 
 companions suddenly cut down before his eyes — 
 those dreadful transitions from the flush of health 
 and the vivacity of youth, to the ghastliness of agon- 
 ized death — from the cheering and the smile, to the 
 shriek and the convulsion. Brooks was a gay, anima- 
 ted young officer, remarkable for his personal beau- 
 ty. In the midst of the engagement, he accosted 
 Perry in a spirited tone, with a smile on his counte- 
 nance, and was making some observations about the 
 enemy, when a cannon ball struck him in the thigh 
 and dashed him to the opposite side of the deck. — 
 The blow shattered him dreadfully, and the sudden 
 anguish forced from him the most thrilling exclama- 
 tions. He implored Perry to shoot him, and put an 
 end to his torture ; the latter directed some of the 
 marines to carry him below, and consign him to the 
 surgeon. The scene was rendered more affecting 
 by the conduct of a httle mulatto boy, of twelve years 
 of age, a favourite of Brooks. He was carrying cart- 
 ridges to one of the guns, but seeing his master fall, he 
 threw himself on the deck with the most frantic aes- 
 ticulations, and piercing cries, exclaiming that his 
 master was killed ; nor could he be appeased, until 
 orders were given to carry him below, when he im- 
 mediately returned to carrying cartridges. Mr. 
 Hamilton, the purser, who had worked at a gun like 
 
148 LIFE OF 
 
 a common sailor, being wounded, was carried below 
 and laid on the same mattress with Brooks. The 
 wound of the latter was staunched, and he lay com- 
 posed, calmly awaiting his approaching death. Ham- 
 ilton observes that he never looked so perfectly 
 beautiful as at this moment, when the anguish of his 
 wound had imparted a feverish flush and lustre to 
 his usually blooming countenance. He asked with 
 great solicitude, after Perry, and how the battle 
 went. He gave a few directions respecting his own 
 affairs, and while his voice was growing weaker and 
 weaker, recommended his little mulatto to kind- 
 ness and protection, directing into whose hands he 
 should be placed. While he was yet talking. Ham- 
 ton's attention was attracted by some circumstances 
 which occasioned him to look another way for a mo- 
 ment — the voice of his companion died upon his ear 
 and when he turned his face again, poor Brooks had 
 expired."* 
 
 There is one circumstance which was related by 
 Perry, that deserves particular mention. It has 
 something in it which does not belong to common 
 life, and which has the appearance of inspiration. 
 
 " When in the sweeping havoc which was some- 
 times made, a number of men were shot away from 
 around a gun, the survivors looked silently around to 
 Perry — and then stepped into their places. When 
 
 *Analeclic Magazine. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 149 
 
 he looked at the poor fellows that lay wounded and 
 
 weltering on the deck, he always found their faces 
 turned towards him, and their eyes fixed on his coun- 
 
 tenace» It is impossible for words to heighten the 
 simple and affecting eloquence of this anecdote. It 
 speakes volumes in praise of the heroism of the com- 
 mander, and the confidence and affection of his 
 men." 
 
 During this dreadful conflict, which thickened 
 with perils, and was characterised by a carnage un- 
 exampled, there was but a single moment when the 
 cool intrepidity and the self command of Perry, expe- 
 rienced any thing like a shock. This was on seeing V 
 his brother, a youth of but thirteen, who served on 
 board as a midshipman, knocked down by a ham- 
 mock, which was driven in by a cannon ball. The 
 first impression of the Commodore was, that he was 
 killed, which gave him a momentary agony, that 
 disconcerted the calmness of his mind. But the 
 sprightly youth immediately rising up unhurt and un- 
 dismayed, relieved the mind of the Commodore, 
 which, being occupied with ihe engagement, and in* 
 tent on victory, no more thought of the danger to 
 which the youth was exposed. 
 
 This splendid victory, so complete and honourable 
 in its cfiaracter, and so important in its consequen- 
 ces, was announced by Commodore Perry, in a spir- 
 it of humility and moderation, which always accom- 
 pany real merit and true greatness, in his first let- 
 *J3 
 
150 LIFE OP 
 
 ter* to the Secretary of the navy, he keeps himself, 
 and, in a measure, the squadron under his command, 
 out of view ; his language being, that "it has pleas- 
 ed the Almighty to give to the arms of the United 
 States, a signal victory over their enemies on this 
 lake." But his laconic letter! to General Harrison, 
 on the occasion, is perhaps, a more striking evidence 
 of a mind capable of great and heroic achievements. 
 The emphatic language, " we have met the ene- 
 my AND THEY ARE our's," could Only havc proceed- 
 ed from the hero of Erie. It reminds us of the cele- 
 
 ^'The following is a transcript of this letter : 
 
 U. S. brig Niagara, off th^ western Lister, fiead of) 
 Lake Erie, Sept. Wth, 1813, 4 o'clock, P. M. \ 
 Sir — It has pleased the Almighty to give to the arms of the 
 United States a signal victory over their enemies on this lake. 
 The British squadron, consisting of two ships, two brigs, one 
 schooner, and one sloop, have this moment surrendered to the 
 ibrce under my command, after a sharp conflict. 
 I have the honour to be, sir, 
 
 Your obedient servant, 
 
 O. II. PERRY. 
 The Hon, William Jones, 7 
 Secretary of the Na'^y. \ 
 
 jThe following is a copy of this letter t 
 
 U S brig Niagara, off the western Lister, head ofl 
 Lake Erie, Sept. ]Oth, 1813, 4 o'clock, P. Ml^ J 
 Dear General — We have met the enemy, and they are ours. 
 Two stjips, two brigs, one schooner, and one sloop. 
 Y^ufs^ with greet respect and esteem, 
 
 O, H, PERRY. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 151 
 
 brated words of Caesar, veni, vidi, ria.J These 
 letters have a simiHtude to Nelson's, after the victo- 
 ry of the Nile, which, it has been said, was adopted 
 as a model ; but if so, it was a noble one, and the oc- 
 casion amply justified the use of it. 
 
 On the 13th, Perry addressed two letters to the 
 Secretary of the navy ; one containing a detailed ac- 
 count of the action, in which he spoke in the highest 
 terms, of his gallant officers and men, both sailors 
 and marines ; and the other containing some partic- 
 ulars as to the vessels captured, and the prisoners ta- 
 ken, and requesting instructions as to the disposition 
 of the same. Accompanying these letters was a 
 statement of the force of the two squadrons, and of 
 the killed and wounded, on board of Perry's squad- 
 ron. 
 
 The British squadron consisted of the following 
 vessels and number of guns : 
 
 Ship Detroit, 1 9 guns, 1 on a pivot, and 
 
 [2 howitzers. 
 
 Queen Charlotte, 17 do., 1 on a pivot. 
 
 Schooner Lady Prevost, 13 do., 1 do. 
 
 Brig Hunter, 10 do. 
 
 Sloop Little Belt, 3 do. 
 
 Schooner Chipewa, 1 do., and 2 swivels. 
 
 63 guns. 
 The Detroit was a new ship, very strongly built 
 and mounted long 24's, 18's and 12's. The Queen 
 |I came— J saw— I coDq«ered, 
 
151 
 
 LIFE OF 
 
 Charlotte was a much superior vessel to what had 
 been represented, and the Lady Prevost a large and 
 fine schooner. 
 
 Perry's squadron consisted of the following vessels^ 
 and number of guns : 
 
 20 guns. 
 20 do. 
 3 do. 
 
 Brig Lawrence, 
 Niagara, 
 Caledonia, 
 Schooner Ariel, 
 
 Scorpion, 
 Somers, 
 Tigress, 
 Porcupine, 
 Sloop Trip, 
 
 4 do., one burst early in 
 [the action* 
 2 do. 
 
 2 do. and 2 swivels. 
 1 do. 
 1 do. 
 1 do. 
 
 54 guns. 
 The exact number of the men, which the enemy 
 had on board of the squadron, could not be ascer- 
 tained ; but it was thought by Commodore Perry, to 
 exceed his number, by nearly one hundred. Nei- 
 ther was the loss of the enemy known with certain- 
 ty, but it was evidently very great, both in killed 
 and wounded. Captain Barclay, senior officer and 
 commander of the squadron, was severely wounded, 
 and the Captain and first Lieutenant of the Detroit, 
 and the first Lieutenant of the Queen Charlotte, were 
 killed. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY, 16^ 
 
 The following is a statement of the killed and 
 wounded on board of Perry's squadron : 
 
 Lawrence, 22 killed 61 wounded— total 83 
 
 Niagara, 
 
 2 
 
 do. 
 
 25 
 
 do. 
 
 27 
 
 Caledonia, 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 do. 
 
 3 
 
 Somers, 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 do. 
 
 2 
 
 Trip, 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 do. 
 
 2 
 
 Scorpion, 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 do. 
 
 2 
 
 Ariel, 
 
 1 
 
 do. 
 
 3 
 
 do. 
 
 4 
 
 27 98 Total 123 
 
 The prisoners were landed at Sandusky, and Per- 
 ry requested General Harrison to have them march- 
 ed to Chilicothe, where they were to remain until 
 the pleasure of the Secretary of the Navy, respecting 
 them, could be known. The wounded of the fleet 
 were taken to Erie, on board the Lawrence, which 
 had been so cut up in the action, that it became ne- 
 cessary she should go into a safb harbour ; and Lieu- 
 tenant Yarnell, who was dispatched with her, was or- 
 dered to dismantle and get her over the bar at Erie, 
 as soon as possible. The two ships captured, the 
 Detroit and Queen Charlotte were so much injured 
 in the action, that on the 13th, whilst at anchor at 
 Put-in-Bay, they lost their masts, and it was found 
 necessary to haul them into the inner bay, and moor 
 them for their security. 
 
 It would be useless to make any remarks upon this 
 victory, A simple narration of the facts is a sufii- 
 
154 LIFE OF 
 
 cient commentary, and the best eulogium upon the 
 gallant and illustrious Commodore, and the brave of- 
 ficers and men, by whose valour it was achieved. — 
 From the statement of facts which has been made, it 
 appears that in almost every point of view, the ene- 
 my had the advantage. Their numerical force ex- 
 ceeded ours by nearly one hundred ; and a greater 
 proportion of them were experienced seamen and 
 marines. The American fleet was built, equipped 
 ahd manned in about three months, and consequent- 
 ly the crews of the vessels hastily collected. They 
 were a mixed, and apparently, an incongruous set of 
 beings, comprising Americans from every part of 
 the Union, Europeans, and blacks.* They had not 
 been together long enough to become acquainted 
 
 *This fact is deserving of consideration. It has been stated 
 that one fourth part of Perry's men were blacks ; but supposing 
 that a much less proportion consisted of blacks, it is evident 
 from the result of the action, that they mu^t have been an effi- 
 cient force, for to believe the contrary, woiiM be to suppose that 
 the fleet was but partially manned, as, including ail, there was 
 no excess, but on the contrary, a less number of men, by near 
 one hundred, than there was on board the British fleet. It will 
 not be contended that there was any thing peculiar in this ser- 
 vice, and if the blacks were active and brave on this occasion* 
 it is pretty good evidence that Ihey can be usefully employed 
 in naval service. Indeed, we believe it has generally been 
 found that the blacks make good seamen. If this is correct, the 
 free blacks iu the United States, would constitute a most exten- 
 sive resource for manning a uavy, and maintaining a maritime 
 power. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRtY. 155 
 
 with each other, or the service. When the fleet 
 was first got over the bar at Erie, there was not 
 more than half sailors enough to man it, and it could 
 not have sailed, had not a number of Pennsylvania 
 militia volunteered their services. 
 
 Although sugh was the character and condition of 
 the sailors, the marines were still less qualified for 
 their situation, so far as that depends upon experi- 
 ence and discipline, most of them having never be- 
 fore seen a square rigged vessel. Nearly all of them 
 were volunteers from the Pennsylvania militia, on 
 service at Erie, commanded by Colonel Rees Hill, 
 and Kentuckians, of which about seventy entered on 
 board the fleet as volunteers, at Sandusky. The 
 former were raised in the counties of Centre, Hun- 
 tingdon, and Mifllin. Such were the men who, un- 
 der Perry, conquered the self-styled " lords of the 
 ocean," on the element which they have claimed as 
 their own, and broke, in the first action of the kind 
 which ever occurred between the two nations, the 
 charm of British invincibility. What they wanted 
 in experience, they made up in bravery. Yet brave 
 as they were, it required, under the disadvantageous 
 circumstances attending them, the cool intrepidity, 
 the consummate skill, and the exalted genius of Per- 
 ry, to lead them to victory and glory. 
 
 But not only did the enemy have the advantage as 
 to the number and condition of the men by whom 
 their fleet was manned, but likewise as to the fleet 
 
156 LIFE OP 
 
 itself. As appears by the statement, they had the 
 greatest number of guns, and they also had an ad- 
 vantage from their being of greater length. At the 
 commencement of the action, the wind was in favour 
 of the enemy, enabling them to choose theirown po- 
 sition, which, from the great length of their guns, 
 gave them great advantage. But notwithstand- 
 ing all these superior advantages possessed by the 
 British — in the language of the immortal Perry, 
 " it pleased the Almighty io give to the arms of 
 the United States, a signal victory over its enemies 
 on this lake." 
 
 The naval force of the enemy having become 
 " owr5," and having obtained the complete command 
 of the Lake, General Harrison and Commodore 
 Perry lost no time in pursuing the ulterior objects of 
 the campaign. The contemplated attack upon Mai- 
 den was now greatly facilitated, and arrangements 
 were immediately made for carrying it into effect. — 
 As soon as the vessels were at liberty, having landed 
 the prisoners and wounded, they were employed in 
 concentrating the troops at Put-in-Bay, by transport- 
 ing them from fort Meigs and Portage river, to that 
 place. This was accomplished about the 20th of 
 September, and on the 22d Commodore Perry land- 
 ed about 1200 of the troops on a small island about 
 twelve miles from Maiden, which the next day were 
 embarked and landed upon the Canada shore, a little 
 /below Maiden. In one hour after the troops had 
 
OLIVER H. PERRV. ijl 
 
 disembarked, General Harrison, perceving that the 
 enenay had evacuated it, took possession of the town 
 of Amherstburgh, General Proctor had fled with 
 his forces, to Sandwich, having previously burnt fort 
 Maiden, the navy-yard, barracks, and pubhc store- 
 houses. He v/as immediately pursued by General 
 Harrison, to Sandwich, but before he arrived, Proc- 
 tor had retreated, pursuing the rout to the Moravian 
 town, on the Thames, which is about eighty miles 
 from Detroit, leaving the Michigan territory to revert 
 to its rightful possesFors. On the 2d of October, 
 Harrison, accompanied by Perry, who had volun- 
 teered as his Aid-de-Camp, left Sandwich, in pursuit 
 ofProctor, with a force of nearly 3,500 men, consisting 
 of 140 regulars, Colonel Johnson's mounted regiment 
 and the Kentucky volunteers, under the venerable 
 Governor Shelby. On the evening of the same day, 
 the army reached the river Thames, and the next 
 morning crossed upon a bridge which Proctor had 
 neglected to destroy. 
 
 The Thames discharges its waters into Lake St, 
 Clair, about twenty -five miles above Detroit. It be- 
 ing supposed that the enemy would be likely to leave 
 behind detachments to destroy the bridges over the 
 three branches of the Thames, v/hich they had cros- 
 sed. General Harrison, with a view to save these 
 bridges, if possible, put himself at the head of the 
 mounted regiment, and pushed forward with all 
 possible speed. At the first bridge, he found and 
 14 
 
15G LIFE OF 
 
 captured a Lieutenant of dragoons, and eleven pri- 
 vates, who had been left by the enemy to destroy it. 
 The second bridge having been but partially demol- 
 ished, was soon repaired, and the army crossed up- 
 on it on the evening of the 3d. The baggage which 
 had thus far been brought by boats, under the pro- 
 tection of gun boats, it was found necessary to leave 
 at this place under a strong guard, the river above 
 being narrow, and having high and woody banks. 
 One more unfordabie branch of the Thames remain- 
 ed to be passed, at which the army arrived on the 
 4th, and discovered that the bridge near its mouth, 
 and also one about a mile above, had been taken up 
 by the Indians. The Indians, to the number of sev- 
 eral hundred, had collected, and attempted to dis- 
 pute the passage of the troops, and obstruct the re- 
 pair of the bridge 5 but a well directed fire from two 
 six pounders, soon obliged them to retire, and in two 
 hours, the bridge was repaired and the troops cros- 
 sed, just in time to save a house to which the enemy 
 had set fire, and a considerable quantity of mus- 
 kets stored in it. One of the British vessels was al- 
 so found on fire above the bridge ; and here it was 
 ascertained that the enemy were but a few miles 
 ahead. 
 
 The enemy seemed determined to destroy what 
 they could not keep. About four miles above the 
 bridge, two more vessels were found in flames, and 
 also a large distillery, containg ordnance and milita- 
 
OLIVER H. i'ERRV. I o'J 
 
 ry iLores to an immense amount- The fire had pro- 
 gressed so far, that it was impossible to extinguish it > 
 and of the pubhc property, two mounted twenty-four 
 pounders, and a considerable quantity of balls and 
 shelisj only, were saved. At this place the army 
 staid on the night of the 4th, and early the next 
 morning, the troops were again put in motion, and 
 advanced with all possible speed, it being known 
 that the enemy were but a short distance ahead.-— 
 In the afternoon, the advance guard having come up 
 with the enemy, the officer commanding, sent to in- 
 form General Harrison that his progress was stopped 
 by the enemy, who were formed in a strong position, 
 across the line of march. — To understand the posi' 
 tion of the enemy, it is necessary to be acquainted 
 with the topography of the country. Upon the bor- 
 der of the Thames, there was a lofty beech forest 
 having very little underbrush. This forest extend, 
 ed back from the river, two or three hundred yards, 
 to a large and impervious swamp, which ranged for 
 several miles, parallel with the river. The road run 
 through the forest, near the bank of the river. The 
 line of the enemy was formed across this strip of 
 land, their left resting on the river, supported by ar- 
 tillery, and their right on the swamp, covered by the 
 Indians. 
 
 " The American troops were now formed in order 
 of battle. General Trotter's brigade formed the 
 front line, his rii<ht upon the road, and his left upon 
 
iCO LIFE OF 
 
 the swamp, with General Desha's divisioOj consisting 
 of two brigades, formed en potence,^ upon bis left. 
 General King's brigade formed a second line, 150 
 yards in the rear of Trotter's, and Chile's brigade, a 
 corps of reserve in the rear. Trotter's, King's and 
 Chile's brigades, formed the command of Major Gen- 
 eral Harrison. Each brigade averaged nearly 500 
 men. The crotchet formed by Desha's division, was 
 occupied by Shelby, the Governour of Kentucky, a 
 veteran of sixty-six years of age, who had distinguish- 
 ed himself in the revolutionary war, at King's moun- 
 tain. The regular troops, who now amounted to 
 only 120 men, occupied in columns of sections of 
 four, the small space between the road and the river, 
 for the purpose of seizing the enemy's artillery, and 
 ten or twelve friendly Indians, were directed to move 
 under the bank. Harrison had directed Johnson's 
 mounted infantry to form in two lines, opposite to 
 the enemy, and when the infantry advanced to take 
 ground to the left, and, forming upon that flank, to 
 endeavour to turn the right of the Indians. It was 
 perceived, however, that it would be impracticable 
 for them to do ajiy thing on horseback in that quar- 
 ter, owing to the thickness of the woods, and the 
 swampiness of the ground. A measure altogether 
 
 "^riie troops arc Ibimed cnpoicnce, by brrakinga straight line 
 nnd liuovvJDg acertaiii [)roportion of it cither forward or back- 
 Wrii fi, froin the right or left, according to circnmstaiices, for the 
 purpose of securing that Ilae, D'jane's Mllitanj Bktionary 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 161 
 
 novel, was determined on, which was crowned with 
 the most signal success. The American backwoods- 
 men, ride better in the woods than any other peo- 
 ple. A musket, or rifle is no impediment to them, 
 being accustomed to carry them on horseback from 
 their earliest youth. A charge was determined on., 
 and accordingly the regiment was drawn up in close 
 column, with its right at the distance of tifty yards 
 from the road, that it might, in some measure, be 
 protected by the trees from the artillery, and the left 
 upon the swamp. 
 
 " The army in this order, had moved on but a short 
 distance, when the mounted men received the fire 
 of the British line, and were instantly ordered to 
 charge. Tlie horses in front of the column, recoil- 
 ed from the tire ; but on receiving a second ilre, the 
 column got into motion, and immediately, at full 
 speed, broke through the enemy with irresistable 
 force. In one minute the contest was over in front* 
 The British officers seeing no hope of reducing their 
 disordered ranks to order, the mounted infantry 
 wheeling upon them, and pouring in a destructive 
 tire, immediately surrendered. Only three of the 
 Americans were wounded in this charge. 
 
 '' Upon the American left, however, the contest 
 with the Indians was more severe. Colonel John- 
 son, who commanded on that flank of his regiment, 
 received a most galhng fire from them, which was 
 returned with great elFect. The Indians sjtili furthci- 
 
 *i4 
 
3 62 LIFE or 
 
 to the left, advanced and fell in with the front line 
 of the infantry, near its junction with the division en 
 potence, and for a moment, made an impression upon 
 it. Governor Shelby, however, who, as already sta- 
 ted, was stationed near this point, brought up a re- 
 giment to its support. The enemy now received a 
 severe fire in front, and a part of the mounted men 
 having gained their rear, they immediately retreated 
 with precipitation."* 
 
 General Harrison, with his Aids, and the gallant 
 Perry, who served as a volunteer Aid-de-Camp, and 
 Brigadier General Cass, who, having no command, 
 tendered his services to the commanding General, 
 placed himself at the head of the front line of Infan- 
 try, to direct the movements of the cavalry, and 
 give them the necessary support. 
 
 Those British officers and soldiers, with the ex- 
 ception of Proctor, and the few that escaped with 
 him, who, for fifteen months, had harrassed the north- 
 western frontier, and allied themselves with the sav- 
 ages, and who, if they had not instigated, had witnes- 
 sed the massacres upon the river Raisin, and upon 
 the Miami, after the defeat of Colonel Dudley, and 
 the numerous and horrible outrages upon the peacea- 
 ble and defenceless inhabitants of the frontiers, had 
 now, from the fortune of war, fallen into the hands 
 of that enemy upon whom they had inflicted so many 
 deep wounds, and offered so many indignities. The 
 
 ^History of the Waf, 
 
OLIVER H. PERRV. 163 
 
 period had now arrived that was to decide, whether 
 the reproach which Brock had thrown upon the 
 Kentuckians, of their being a " ferocious and mor- 
 tal foe, using the same mode of warfare as the sava- 
 ges," and that the employment of them, in the Amer- 
 ican service, would justify the British in employing 
 the Indians, was founded in truth ; or, whether it 
 was a base aspersion of a brave, a generous, and a 
 magnanimous people. The men under whose eyes 
 the murders upon the river Raisin aad the Miami, 
 had been committed, were now completely in the hands 
 of an army, composed almost entirely of Kentuckians, 
 many of whom had lost brothers, relatives or friends 
 in those shocking scenes. Nor were the instruments 
 of vengeance wanting. The savages who had sued 
 to the Americans for mercy, would gladly have shewn 
 their claims to it, by reacting upon the Thames, the 
 bloody drama of the river Raisin. A single sign of 
 approbation, would have poured forth their fury up- 
 on the inhabitants of an extensive and flourishing 
 province, which the fortune of war had opened to 
 our arms. But how did the Kentuckians act on this 
 occasion. Did they follow the example which had 
 been set them ? Did they attempt to avenge the 
 innocent blood of their brethren, which had been 
 shed, if not by the prisoners in their hands, under 
 their eyes, and by the Indians with whom they were 
 associated ? Did they extend unto their enemies 
 when in their power, that measure of justice, or 
 
164 LIFE OP 
 
 rather of outrage, which their countrymen, in a sim- 
 ilar situation, had experienced from them ? No : a 
 sense of retributive justice, was lost in the nobler 
 feelings of humanity. Those, who a moment before, 
 had, associated with savages, been engaged in war- 
 fare, and who were known to have been the abet- 
 tors o( those horrid barbarities, which had deluged 
 our borders with innocent blood, the instant they 
 ceased resistance, ceased to be regarded as enemies. 
 From an exalted spirit of magnanimity, all injuries 
 were forgotten. The only character in which they 
 were now viewed, was that of prisoners ofzuar. Not 
 only were their persons and property sacredly pro- 
 tected, but they experienced the most honourable 
 and kind treatment — Not a word, nor a look escaped 
 from their captors, calculated to wound or insult 
 their feelings. 
 
 The result of this victory, was six hundred and 
 one prisoners, of the British regulars, twelve killed 
 and twenty-two wounded. General Proctor, with 
 about forty dragoons, and a number of mounted In- 
 dians, made his ecape by the fleetness of their hor- 
 ses. The Indians sustained the severest loss. 
 Thirty-three were found dead uJ)on the field of ac- 
 tion ; besides which many were killed whilst on the 
 retreat — Six pieces of brass ordnance were taken 
 of which three were trophies of the revolutionary 
 war, being the same that were surrendered by Gen- 
 era! Hull at Detroit, and were originally taken from 
 
OLIVER H. PERRV. iUo 
 
 the British at Saratoga and Yorktown. Besides these, 
 two twenty-four pounders were taken the day before 
 the action, and several others were discovered in the 
 river in a situation to be saved. Small arms, to the 
 number of more than 5000, were either taken or de- 
 stroyed by the enemy, nearly all of which had origi- 
 nally belonged to the Americans, and were captured 
 by the British at Detroit, Frenchtown, and at Colo- 
 nel Dudley's defeat, on the Miami. 
 
 The number of Indians engaged in this action 
 could not be ascertained, but it was thought to have 
 been considerably more than one thousand. A Brit- 
 ish officer of high rank, informed one of Harrison's 
 Aids, that at the time the American army landed near 
 Amherstburgh, Proctor had more than 3000 Indian 
 warriors at his disposal, but asserted that the great- 
 er part of them had left him previous to the action. 
 
 Among the Indians who fell, was the celebrated 
 warrior and Chief, Tecumseh. Ke was a distin- 
 guished and influential Chief, possessing, in an emi- 
 nent degree, all the attributes of a natural greatness, 
 both physical and intellectual. His independent and 
 unsubdued spirit, spurned the advantages and the re- 
 straints of civilization, and led him to view the Amer- 
 icans with suspicion and hostility. Though as un- 
 cultivated as his native forests, he disclosed a mind 
 vigorous, energetic, and determined — fixed in its 
 purposes — ample in resources, and steady and per- 
 severing in the pursuit of them. Conscious of his 
 
IQ^ LIFE OF ' 
 
 superiority, he caused it to be felt by others, and hi i 
 deportment was rudely dignified and commanding. 
 Holding in the highest veneration the customs and 
 traditions of his countrymen — having a high sense of 
 their independence and rights ; and considering them 
 as jeopardized by the rapid inroads of civilization, he 
 became implacable in his hostility to the United 
 States. — At the commencement of the war, he exert- 
 ed himself to arouse the spirit of war and hostility 
 among the different tribes, and to induce them to 
 take hold of the tomahawk, and strike the Americans ; 
 and unfortunately his exertions were but too success- 
 ful. He infused his own soul into the young men 
 and warriors, and the pipe of peace, soon yielded to 
 the ferocious war-yell. How far he was stimulated 
 to exert himself, by the British, may be conjectured, 
 from the fact that, at the time of his fail, he held 
 from the British government a Brigadier General's 
 commission. But he was not like some great men 
 in civilized nations, who have had sufficient iiifluence 
 ta induce their country to engage in war, and then 
 are the first to shrink from its responsibilities, and to 
 flee from its dangers. His spirit of hostility was not 
 greater than his undaunted bravery. In a speech 
 which he made to " his Father,*" at Amherstburgh, 
 previously to the enemy's evacuating that place, he 
 shewed that he scorned " to seek safety by flight," 
 
 * Genera! Proctor 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 167 
 
 and explicitly charged proctor with cowardice — of 
 not daring to stay and meet the enemy himself, and 
 of depriving his " red children" of the means of de- 
 fending themselves. He concludes his speech as 
 follows : 
 
 "Father! — You have got the arms and ammuni- 
 tion which our great father sent for his red children 5 
 if you have an idea of going away, give them tons, 
 and you may go and welcome, for us. Our lives are 
 in the hands of the great spirit. We are determined 
 to defend our lands, and if it be his will, we wish to 
 leave our bones upon them." 
 
 But destiny ordered that the bones of this gallant 
 chieftain should be left upon the Thames. 
 
 We cannot forbear to subjoin the following lines 
 upon this distinguished warrior. They are extracted 
 from a western paper : 
 
 TECUMSEH. 
 
 Aloft on his courser, his phiraes waving high, 
 Rage brighlning each feature, fury lighting his eye, 
 Teeumsehcame dashing o'er the blood crimson'd field, 
 Determin'd to conquer — with life hut to yield ! 
 Wbeu the voice of a foeman thus rung on his ear : 
 " Tecumseh ! Tecumseh ! thy hour draweth near; 
 *♦ Yon high rolling planet, mild beaming so bright, 
 •' To you will no more shew the rays of his light ; 
 '* In Fates dreaded balance, your crimes tiave been weigh'd, 
 '• And to day you're consigu'd to futurity's shade. 
 '■* Columbia's war horses, shall prance, and shall neigh, 
 " O'er the plains where your boues will sun-bleachen lay. 
 
168 LirE OF 
 
 •' Stern warrior ! no more shall the war-whooping sounds 
 
 '* Make your chieftains and warriors encircle yon ronnd ; 
 
 *' No more will your yelling, jonr countrymen rouse, 
 
 •' On the ranks of your foeraen courageous to charge ; 
 
 " No more will your hand cause the infant to bleed, 
 
 *• No more to the charge will yon spur your train'd steed ; 
 
 *♦ No more on the blasts will be wafted your yell ; 
 
 " No more to our foes, our scalps will you sell ; 
 
 <^ At midnight, no more you'll your war hatchet steep, 
 
 " In the blood of the brave, as unconscious they sleep ! 
 
 ♦* The star of your glory is now near its tall ; 
 
 *♦ Your race is rmi out, *' Death hath woven your pall !" 
 
 ** Hark ! now you are summon'd— you fall,--yes, 'tis o'er !" 
 
 The voice instant oeas'd, and Tecumseh's no more. 
 
 It is admitted that the American forces considera- 
 bly exceeded those of the enemy ; but when it is 
 considered that the latter had chosen their own po- 
 gition — that they had taken one peculiarly favoura- 
 ble for defence, effectually securing their flanks, it 
 being impossible to turn them, and that the Ameri- 
 cans could present a line no more extended than that 
 of the enemy, which was too limited to admit of the 
 active employment of all their troops ; and when it 
 is further considered, that the troops were almost en- 
 tirely militia, it must be conceded that this victory 
 reflected great honour upon the national arms, and 
 upon the troops by whom it was achieved. 
 
 The action, and the movements which preceded 
 it, afford ample testimony of the judgment, and cool 
 intrepidity of General Harrison ; — and indeed, all the 
 f^vents of his campaign, support these characteristics : 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 16^ 
 
 the disasters attending it, having in no instance been 
 imputable to him. 
 
 There are, perhaps, on record, few instances of 
 such cool and steady intrepidity, on the part of miU- 
 tia, or a force of this description, as was displayed on 
 this occasion. General Harrison speaks in the high- 
 est terms of praise, of the officers and troops. The 
 gallant Colonel Johnson was engaged where the con- 
 test raged with the greatest severity, and the numer- 
 ous wounds which he received, bore ample testimony 
 of his valour. 
 
 In speaking of the conduct of the officers, Harri- 
 son says, " I am at a loss how to mention that of Gov- 
 ernour Shelby, being convinced that no eulogium of 
 mine, can reach his merit. The Governour of an in- 
 dependent state, greatly my superior in years, in ex- 
 perience, and in military character, he placed him- 
 self under my command, and was not more remarka- 
 ble for his zeal and activity, than for the promptitude 
 and cheerfulness with which he obeyed my orders.'' 
 If every state had had a Shelby for its Chief Magis- 
 trate, it would have given a different spirit to the war, 
 and a different character to its operations ; Canada 
 would have been conquered, and the American ea- 
 gle waved triumphant upon the ramparts of Quebec. 
 
 Harrison did not forget the hero of Erie. " I have 
 
 already stated" he observes, " that Commodore 
 
 Perry and General Cass, assisted me in forming the 
 
 troops for action : the former is an oificer of the 
 
 15 
 
170 LIFE OP 
 
 highest merit, and the appearance of the brave Com- 
 modore cheered and animated every breast." 
 
 The victory of the Thames was not more honour- 
 able in its character, than important in its consequen- 
 ces. It terminated the war on the north-western 
 frontier, which, during fifteen months, had been 
 drenched in blood, and stained with crimes ; thou- 
 sands of the most patriotic sons of the west, having 
 fallen victims to its ravages and disasters. The sav- 
 age war-yell was heard no more ; and the frightful 
 tomahawk no longer reeked with the blood of inno- 
 cence, infancy and age. The British found their In- 
 dian allies faithful only in prosperity. 
 
 After the fall of their power upon the Lake, which 
 was followed by the Am.erican troops taking posses- 
 sion of Amherstburgh and Sandwich, and reoccupy- 
 ing the territory of Michigan, a number of the hostile 
 tribes sued for peace, and brought in hostages for 
 their good behaviour ; and whilst Harrison was in 
 pursuit of the British army, other tribes followed 
 their example, and brought hostages to Detroit. — 
 Their pledges and proposals for peace, were accep- 
 ted by General M'Auther, who commanded at that 
 place on condition that " they should take hold of the 
 same tomahawk with the Americans, and strike all 
 who are or may be enemies of the United States, 
 whether British or Indians." 
 
 The army, after the action, returned to Detroit, 
 where, on the 16th of October, Gen. Harrison issu- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 171 
 
 ed a proclamation, giving publicity to the armistice 
 which had been concluded with the Indian tribes ; 
 stating that they had been permitted to retire to their 
 hunting grounds, and to remain unmolested as long 
 as they behaved themselves peaceably. The inhab- 
 itants of the frontier settlements were Required to ab- 
 stain from all acts of hostihtj, or engaging in any 
 expedition against the persons and property of these 
 misguided people. The next day, a proclamation 
 was issued by Harrison and Perry, dated at Sand- 
 wich, stating that the combined operations of the 
 land and naval forces under their command, having 
 captured or destroyed those of the enemy, in the 
 district of Upper Canada ; and the said district being 
 in quiet possession of the American troops, it be- 
 came necessary to provide for the government there- 
 of, which could only be done under authority of the 
 United States. The laws of the province, and the 
 rights and privileges of the inhabitants, were recog- 
 nized, and all magistrates, and other civil officers, 
 were admitted to resume the exercise of their func- 
 tions, on taking an oath to be faithful to the govern-= 
 ment of the United States, as long as they might 
 continue in possession of this section of the province^ 
 The authority of militia commissions was suspended, 
 and all officers required to give their parole to the 
 officer appointed to administer the government. 
 
 Harrison and Perry left Detroit in the Ariel, and 
 arrived at Erie on the 22d of October. Here they 
 
Wi^ LIFE OP 
 
 were received with every demonstration of joy and 
 admiration ; the discharge of cannon, illuminations, 
 ^c. They were hailed as the " delivers of the fron- 
 tiers." From Erie, with a part of the squadron, 
 consisting of the Niagara, Caledonia, Hunter, Ariel, 
 Lady Prevost, Trip and Little Belt, having about 
 2000 troops on board, they sailed for Buffalo, where 
 they arrived on the 24th. Agreeably to the orders 
 of the Secretary of war, Harrison proceeded with the 
 troops from Buffalo to Sackett's Harbour. 
 
 The prisoners taken on the Thames, were march- 
 ed to Chilicothe, where they arrived on the 9th of 
 November, under the care of Major Croghan, the he- 
 ro of Sandusky, and joined their countrymen captur- 
 ed by Perry, with the British fleeto 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 173 
 
 CHAPTER V, 
 
 Remarks on the consequences of the victory of hake Erie — con- 
 dition of the north-western frontier at the time Perry arrived 
 there — its situation when he left it — the scene of the victory-^ 
 is calculated to swell its importance^ and perpetuate its fame — 
 the great valley of the St. Latvrence — importance of the acqui- 
 sitionofthe Canadas — ample general view of the vast chain of 
 water communication which drains this great valley — partic- 
 ular description of Lake Erie and iti, borders, which were the 
 scenes of the war — the Indian country in the state of Ohio — 
 general view of the territory of Michigan, and that vast region 
 west of lake Michigan, and south of lake Superior — general 
 view of the north-western districts in Upper Canada, the scene 
 of the war in that province. 
 
 We have now completed a succinct account of 
 the events of the war on the north-western frontier, 
 from which the importance of the victory upon lake 
 Erie, appears more distinct and conspicuous. If 
 there is any one individual to whom this country is 
 more indebted than any other, for the success of its 
 arms during the late war; for the security of its in- 
 habitants ; the protection of the frontiers ; for pre- 
 serving the integrity of its soil, and for shedding a 
 lustre upon its reputation — it is Oliver Hazard 
 Perry. When he arrived at Erie, the aspect of af- 
 fairs, in that quarter, was inauspicious and gloomy. 
 Owing to numerous disasters. General Harrison's 
 *15 
 
174 LIFE OF 
 
 army had been only able to act upon the defensive, 
 and was but just relieved from a critical situation at 
 fort Meigs, where it had been besieged by General 
 Proctor. Instead of any thing having been done to 
 check or weaken the spirit of hostility, of the nume- 
 rous hordes of savages, which were spread over the 
 frontier, the repeated disasters that had occured, had 
 served to stimulate their thirst for blood, to increase 
 their propensities for depredation, and to embolden 
 them in violence and outrage. Whilst this ferocious 
 foe, whose mode of warfare regards neither age, nor 
 sex, stimulated by success, and rendered more dread- 
 ful from the implements and munitions of war, with 
 which the British had supplied them, hung, like a 
 portentous cloud, threatening to discharge its elec- 
 tric fire, over the frontier, there could be no security 
 for the inhabitants. Knowing the ferocious charac- 
 ter of the enemy, and having been harrassed for near- 
 ly twelve months, apprehension and alarm pervaded 
 the whole north-western border. 
 
 Those who were enjoying the blessings of peace 
 and security, and who felt no apprehension of the 
 sanctuary of their homes being invaded by the hand 
 of violence, had httle idea of the condition, and httle 
 aympathy for the sufferings of the inhabitants of this 
 devoted frontier. To the dreariness of a wilderness, 
 was added the gloom of the desolation of war — to 
 the darkness of night, the horrors of apprehended in- 
 vasion — to the crashing of the forest, the clangovir of 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 175 
 
 arms — and to the bowlings of the blasts, the frightful 
 yell of the savage war-whoop. 
 
 A state of conscious insecurity, is, of all others, 
 the most afflicting. It darkens the face of day, and 
 thickens the gloom of night. Night, which brings to 
 others repose, and soothes the cares and anxieties of 
 the day, is to them a season of increased anxiety and 
 watchfulness. It was so upon this devoted frontier. 
 The hardy settler, whose own hands, after years of 
 toil, had erected a cottage for the comfort of his fam- 
 ily, dreaded the approach of night, as only affording 
 a cover to Indian depredations, and the inroads of 
 rapine and murder. He trembled every moment, 
 lest the humble sanctuary of his home should be in- 
 vaded, by the hand of savage violence, and his cot- 
 tage laid in ruins by the fire brand and the scalping 
 knife. Every movement he imagined the hostile tread 
 of the invader — and every noise the ferocious yell 
 of the savage. His wife startled at every breeze, 
 and, shrieking aghast, clasped her infant to her 
 breast. 
 
 In the territory of Michigan, the condition of the 
 inhabitants was, if possible, more calamitous and dis- 
 tressing. This was a dismembered limb of the Un- 
 ion, in which the authority of the United States had 
 ceased. Its capital was occupied by the British, 
 and its borders were infested with savages. Detroit 
 was the general rendezvous of the hostile Indians, 
 and the depot of their trophies of war. Here their 
 
176 LIFE OF 
 
 schemes of rapine and murder were planned, and 
 here the scalps of our countrymen were brought. 
 Here the Indian war dance was exhibited, and the 
 war song sung, which reverberated through the sur- 
 rounding wilderness. Here the savage seized the 
 tomahawk, and sallied forth to steep it in the blood 
 of the peaceable and defenceless inhabitants ; of 
 helpless infancy and age. This was a grand mart of 
 crimes, where bargains for scalps, and for rapine and 
 massacre, were made — the source of those streams 
 of blood which crimsoned the banks of the river 
 Raisin, and deluged the frontier. The inhabitants, 
 necessarily abandoned by their own country, were 
 entirely at the mercy of the British and Indians, and 
 exposed to every outrage, both upon their persons 
 and property, which a savage and ferocious foe, 
 flushed with victory, and thirsting for blood, were 
 disposed to perpetrate. In the mean time, the ene- 
 my had the absolute dominion of the lake, which af- 
 forded great facility, and gave great celerity to their 
 predatory incursions. 
 
 Such was the condition of the north-western fron- 
 tier, when it was first visited by Perry. How strik- 
 ing the contrast at the time he left it. His genius 
 had illumined the horizon of war, so long overcast 
 with clouds and darkness, and the splendour of his 
 achievements had spread a radiance through the 
 gloom which once beclouded the northwestern bor- 
 der. The enemy who, for fifteen months, had har- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 177 
 
 rassed the frontier, was not then to be found. Per- 
 ry had met them, and " they were ours." The 
 yell of the savage was heard no more, and no more 
 were the blood-trails of his victims discovered. No 
 more the hardy settler was disturbed in his repose, 
 from an apprehension that his humble cottage might 
 be desolated by the savage hand of the midnight in- 
 vader ; and no more the affrighted mother, with dis- 
 tracted looks, and an agonizing heart, clasped her 
 infant to her breast. 
 
 These scenes were past. Peace, so long exiled, 
 had revisited the frontier, and spread its mantle of 
 security over the inhabitants. Michigan was rein- 
 stated, and its government restored ; the hostile In- 
 dian tribes had sued for peace ; delivered up hos- 
 tages for their fideHty, and offered to take hold of the 
 same tomahawk, with the Americans, and strike 
 their enemies, whether British or Indians. The 
 land forces of the British had been captured, and an 
 entire district of the Upper Province, was in the qui- 
 et possession of the Americans, and under a provis- 
 ional government, established by the conquerors ; 
 and fort Maiden, which had long been a nursery of 
 Indian hostility and outrage, had been demolished by 
 the hand of those by whom it had been garrisoned 
 and maintained, for purposes so revolting to hmani- 
 ty. The roar of cannon, and the discharge of arms, 
 had ceased. The lake, no longer agitated by hos- 
 tile fleets, had resumed its stillness— and the wilder- 
 
178 LIFE OP 
 
 ness its solitude. Such were the auspicious results 
 of the memorable victory of the 10th of September. 
 Weil might this victory give to the head that plan- 
 ned, and the hand that achieved it, the appellations 
 of " the hero of Erie, '^'^ and the " deliverer ofthefron' 
 tier ;" and to these might have been added that of 
 " -peace-maker P for Perry made peace for an Exten- 
 sive section of the country, which wanted it more 
 than any other, having suffered most from the exis- 
 tence of hostilities, and which was then bleeding 
 with the wounds of war. 
 
 But there are other circumstances which combin- 
 ed to swell the importance of this victory, and to ex- 
 tend its fame to the latest record of time. These 
 circumstances, it is true, have no merit in themselves, 
 yet their eiTect will not be the less lasting and con- 
 spicuous. The immense sheet of water, which was 
 the scene of this action, is situated in the heart of 
 an extensive interior country, and is a central link in 
 a vast chain of water communication, consisting of 
 immense lakes or inland seas, outlets and rivers, 
 which have no example upon this globe. These 
 lakes, during a succession of ages, had been embos- 
 omed by impenetrable forests, and their shores were 
 only visited by wild beasts, and the ferocious savage. 
 A dead silence had long reigned over them, and their 
 surface was never ploughed by the bai-ks of human 
 invention, or freighted by the products of civilization. 
 Upon lake Erie, this silence had recently been bro- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 179 
 
 fcen in upon ; its shores were becoming the abodes 
 of civilization, and its waters beginning lo be naviga- 
 ted. But until the late war, no hostile armaments 
 had appeared upon its surface, nor the roar of can- 
 non disturbed its peaceful waves. Perry's victory 
 was not only the first ever obtained by the Ameri» 
 cans over the British, in an engagement between 
 squadrons, but it was the first naval action ever 
 fought upon Lake Erie. 
 
 "Were any thing wanting to perpetuate the fame 
 of this victory, it would be sufficiently memorable 
 from the scene where it was fought. The late war 
 was distinguished by new and peculiar characteris- 
 tics. Naval warfare has been carried into the inte- 
 rior of a continent, and navies, as if by magic, 
 launched from the forest. The bosoms of peaceful 
 lakes, which but a short time since, were scarcely 
 navigated by man, except to be skimmed by the light 
 canoe of the savage, have all at once been ploughed 
 by hostile ships. The vast silence that had reigned 
 for ages on those mighty waters, was broken by the 
 thunder of artillery, and the affrighted savage stared 
 with amazement from his covert, at the sudden appa- 
 rition of a sea-fight, amid the solitude of the wilder- 
 ness. In future times, when the shores of Erie shall 
 hum with busy population ; when towns and cities 
 shall brighten, where now extend the dark and tang- 
 led forests ; when ports shall spread their arms, and 
 lofty barks shall ride, where now the canoe is fasten- 
 
180 LIFE or 
 
 ed to the stake ; when the present age shall have 
 grown into venerable antiquity, and the mists of fa- 
 ble begin to gather round its history ; then will the in- 
 habitants of the borders of Erie look back to this bat- 
 tle we record, as one of the romantic achievements 
 of the days of yore. It will stand first on the page of 
 their local legends, and in the marvelous tales of the 
 borders. The fisherman, as he loiters along the 
 beach, will point to some half buried cannon, corro- 
 ded with the rust of time, and will speak of ocean 
 warriors, that came from the shores of the Atlantic ; 
 while the boatman, as he trims bis sail to the breeze, 
 will chant, in rude ditties, the name of Perry — the 
 early hero of Erie."* 
 
 As the perpetuity of the fame of this victory de- 
 pends, in a great measure, upon the scene where it 
 was achieved, and the importance of it, upon the 
 consequences which ensued, upon the American 
 frontier, and in a district of Upper Canada, bordering 
 upon lake Erie, it is deemed proper to give some ac- 
 count of a country with which the name of our hero is 
 identified. It is also proper that the history of Per- 
 ry should comprise a description of that section of 
 his country which was the scene of his glory, and 
 which has derived such celebrity from the splendour 
 of his achievements. And as a topographical de- 
 scription, confined to the district forming the borders 
 
 . *Ana!^elic 3Iagiizinc. 
 
OLIVER H. PERHY. l&l. 
 
 of lake Erie, would be too insulated to afford much 
 interest, we shall precede that, by a general view of 
 the vast extent of country, which has been called the 
 great valley of the St. Lawrence. 
 
 The valley of St. Lawrence, comprises that por- 
 tion of the interior of North America, which is wa- 
 tered by the river St. Lawrence, its numerous trib- 
 utary streams, and the great interior lakes, and their 
 various contributary waters. This vast region, em- 
 braces the extensive provinces of Upper and Lower 
 Canada, the north-western section of the state of 
 Vermont, a large portion of the fertile and populous 
 country, comprised within the western district of the 
 state of New- York, a small part of the north-western 
 section of Pennsylvania, nearly one third part of the 
 state of Ohio, embracing that extensive district com- 
 monly called New-Connecticut, and tlie beautiful 
 and fertile country bordering on the Maumce, and 
 its borders, the Indian title to which has recently 
 "been acquired, some part of the state of Indiana, the 
 extensive peninsula of Michigan, and the vast region 
 west of lake Michigan and south of lake Superior.— 
 The immense territory embraced within these lim- 
 its, and which comprises an area, exclusive of its 
 waters, of more than 400,000 square miles, is un- 
 doubtedly one of the most magniiicent regions of this 
 globe. It presents features, which, for their vastness 
 «nd siiblimity, stand alone. No other portion of the 
 
 1G 
 
182 
 
 LIFE OF 
 
 earth affords any parallel, or even similitude.* A 
 chain of interior water communication of between 
 two and three thousand miles in extent, affording, 
 with few obstructions, navigable waters for the en- 
 tire distance, and comprising, in the whole, an area 
 of eighty-seven thousand, two hundred square miles. 
 The greater proportion of U 's extensive chain of 
 
 *The following table exhibits the area of the different sections 
 of country, drained by the St. Lawrence. 
 
 TABLE 
 
 Of the suj^erjicies, drained by the valley of the St. Lawrence river. 
 
 "^ a. 
 
 Region lying N. W. of Lake Superior, 
 do. N. E. of do. 
 
 North of Lake Huron, and west of the sour- 
 ces of the Oltawas river, - - - - 
 
 Peninsula between Lakes Huron, Erie, and 
 Ontario, --------- 
 
 North-west of St. Lawrence, below the sour- 
 ces of the Ottawas river, - - - ^ 
 
 Total area N. W. of St. Lawrence, 
 
 Region N. E. of the St. Lawerence, from 
 its mouth to that of the llichelieu, 
 
 Triang* included between Black, St. Law- 
 rence, and Richelieu rivers, - - - 
 
 South of Lake Ontario, west of Black river, 
 
 South-east and south of Lake Erie, and east 
 of Maumee river, . - • 
 
 Peninsula of IMichigau, _ - - 
 
 West of Lake Micbigan, and south of Lake 
 Superior, - - - - 
 
 Total sor.th-easf and ?o!tth-wc-?t. - I 
 
 300 
 400 
 
 200 
 
 200 
 
 700 
 
 500 
 
 230 
 200 
 
 300 
 
 250 
 
 400 
 
 M 
 
 {30 
 80 
 
 200 
 
 80 
 
 220 
 
 50 
 
 50 
 80 
 
 30 
 
 150 
 
 120 
 
 r<5 O «) 
 
 24,000 
 32,000 
 
 40,000 
 
 16,000 
 
 154,000 
 
 266,000 
 
 25,000 
 
 16,500 
 16,000 
 
 9,000 
 37,500 
 
 48,000 
 
 1 52,000 
 
 418,000 
 
 [Darbij'si Tour, 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 18S 
 
 water, consists of immense lakes, which might, with 
 propriety, be denominated inland seas ; some of them 
 having a coast of nearly 1200 miles, and the whole 
 united, about 4000 miles. 
 
 In contemplating these vast lakes, it is to be re- 
 membered that they consist oi fresh zuater. By what 
 process, or unknown laws of nature, the Almighty 
 preserves these immense bodies of fresh water* in a 
 state of purity, is one of the many phenomena, which 
 defy the researches of man, and humble the pride of 
 philosophy. These lakes, their outlets, and the 
 river St. Lawrence, which rolls their vast aggregate 
 waters to the ocean, are the reservoirs of the waters 
 of the immense territory forming what is called the 
 great valley of the St. Lawrence. Innumerable fine 
 streams, which intersect and fertilize this beautiful 
 country, some of which are navigable for vessels for 
 considerable distance, and many of them extensively 
 for boats, mingle their own, with the limpid waters 
 of the great lakes. It can hardly be necessary to 
 add, that these immense waters unite the most ex- 
 tensive advantages for internal commercial inter- 
 course, and, with some improvements, for external 
 trade ; and that they afford unrivalled facilities for 
 manufactures. 
 
 This country, which, as to its waters, stands alone 
 
 *It has been thought by Fomc, that the watirs of Jhesc lakes 
 wern originally salt. 
 
ind unhvalied, ts not behind any otlici-, as lo ita ch«. 
 iuatC) its soil, and the beauty of its landscapes. This, 
 instead of being a ''region of frost," as many sup- 
 pose, IS, with the exception of the lower regions of 
 the St. Lawrence, remarkably temperate and mild, 
 for a country of its latitude. In many parts, spring 
 is ushered in with surprising suddenness, and is very 
 short, being soon followed by the heat of summer.* 
 
 As it respects a salubrious atmosphere, and health- 
 fulness, no country, in so unimproved a state, is su- 
 perior to this. Its surface is generally level, or mode- 
 rately uneven, w^ith a prevailing inclination towards 
 the great channel of water communication ; and it 
 presents some of the most charming and interesting 
 landscapes in the world — the most picturesque and 
 beautiful scener}% The soil of this great valley of 
 the St. Lawrence, is generally strong and fertile, 
 with some scctioi.s peculiarly fat and luxuriant ; 
 and possesses ample resources for all the great in- 
 terests of agriculture. That a country, possessing 
 such superior advantages, is capable of sustaining a 
 dense population, is most apparent. 
 
 Were we to indulge the imagination, in drawing 
 ai-idc the veil of futurity, and carrying us forward but 
 a single century, what a chain of cities, towns, ham- 
 lets and villages, should we behold brightening the 
 shores of the lakes, the St. Lawrence, and their 
 tributary wpJ-^^rs^ v/here now stand dreary and entan- 
 
 ^Dajbv's Tour. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 1^5 
 
 gled forests. What a multitude of vessels, freighted 
 with the products of civilization, and contributing to 
 the wants and conveniences of a vast population, en- 
 livening the bosom of those vast lakes, which a few 
 years since, were only skimmed by the rude canoe 
 of the savage — What extensive cultivated fields, 
 clothed in rich and varied verdure, the offspring of 
 the arts and agriculture, where now the gloomy wil- 
 derness holds its dominion — What swarms of human 
 beings, all busily engaged in the various pursuits of 
 civilization, and enjoying the rich fruition of their 
 industry and wealth, where now the solitary Indian 
 roams ; and what animating notes of human voices, 
 modulated by art, and softened by education, will 
 have succeeded to the frightful howling of wild beasts, 
 and the ferocious yell of the savage. This is fiction, 
 but it will soon become fact. ^Vaat is here prophe- 
 cy, will at no distant day be history ; and when that 
 period arrives, how many voices will repeat the prais- 
 es of the '^ hero of E»ie," who, when their country 
 was in its infancy, and its inhabitants few and feeble, 
 delivered Ihem from the hands of their enemie?. 
 
 The population of (he great valley of the St. Lawr- 
 ence, is already considerable, although most of it is 
 an entire v/ilderness. It may be safely estimated at 
 nearly a million of souls, considerably more than half 
 of which, are within the United States ; and from 
 the preferable location, and superior advantages 
 which the country, upon the American side possess ^ 
 
 *]6 
 
186 LIFE OF 
 
 cs, and from the superior political privileges which 
 the free institutions of this country present to the 
 emigrant, there can be no doubt but that the increase 
 o[ population will be immensely greater upon the 
 American border, than upon the British. 
 
 ^Notwithstanding all that may be done by internal 
 improvements, to direct the course of trade, still it is 
 scarcely to be doubted but that, ultimately, the great 
 natural channel of water communication, will give 
 a direction to the intercourse between this country 
 and the Atlantic sea board ; and that its immense 
 products will be borne upon the waters of the St. 
 Lawrence, to their destined markets. The lower re- 
 gions of the St. Lawrence, including the flourishing 
 cities of Quebec and Montreal, and the islands in 
 the vicinity, will always possess superior advantages 
 for commerce and the tisheries ; which interests will 
 occupy a great proportion of industry, thereby di- 
 verting it from agriculture 5 and the soil on the low- 
 er borders of the St. Lawrence, being rather unin- 
 viting, this region will be likely to be dependant for 
 provisions upon the upper country, and consequent- 
 ly will afford a good market for their immense sup- 
 plies, which will be exchanged for the products of 
 ihe commerce and fisheries of the lower country. 
 
 From these considerations, as well as from those 
 «f a political nature, the annexation of the Canadas 
 to the United States, which would give us the whole 
 of the great valley of the St. Lawrence, and the en- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 187 
 
 tire controiil of the extensive water communication 
 which forms its natural outlet to the ocean, must al- 
 ways be an object of primary importance ; and ought 
 never for a moment to be lost sight of by the coun- 
 cils of the Republic. 
 
 Our extended and extending Republic can never 
 be considered as complete and coasolidated, until 
 this object is accomplished. Was there nothing else 
 to awake our solicitude, to arouse our fears, and pro- 
 voke our pride, with relation to this subject, the 
 great angle, or peninsula of Upper Canada, which 
 projects nearly six degrees into the very heart of the 
 United States, ought to be sufficient. It remains a 
 standing monument, admonishing us of our duty to 
 ourselves, our country, and posterity. 
 
 The annexation of the territory of the Canadas to 
 the United States, would open to the future millions 
 that will inhabit^the American borders of the vast in- 
 terior waters, a free and natural channel of commerce 
 down the St. Lawrence ; give us a north-western 
 frontier, guarded by impenetrable barriers of frost 
 which would save miUions, that will be required to 
 defend the present extended and exposed frontier ; 
 and remove a permanent cause of differences and 
 wars between the two countries. 
 
 But there is another reason, perhaps, more impor- 
 tant than any which has been noticed. The acqui- 
 sition of the Canadas is necessary to preserve the 
 poUtical balance of the Union, ajid to coantervail the 
 
188 LIFE OF 
 
 immense territory which has been acquired to the 
 south and west, by the cession ofliOuisiana. In ad^ 
 dition to these considerations, it is an object worthy 
 of a free, an enlightened, and magnanimous nation, 
 which boasts of its liberty, its laws, and civil institu- 
 tions, to extend, by all just and proper means, the 
 inestimable blessings of a free press, free suffrage, and 
 the principles of republican government, to all who 
 are in a condition to receive and enjoy them ; and 
 especially to a brave and hospitable people, whose 
 contiguity to our Republic renders (hem special ob- 
 jects of our sympathy, and whose destiny seems to 
 have been identified with our own, by the common 
 Parent of the human family. 
 
 From these, and other considerations which this 
 subject presents, but which would be exceeding our 
 prescribed limits to examine, it is believed that the 
 union of the Canadas with the United States, would 
 form an ^ra in the annals of our Republic, second 
 to none except the declaration of its independence, 
 and the acquisition of Louisiana, which opened to us 
 the vast resources of the Mississippi, and its tributa- 
 ry waters. 
 
 The following extract from Bouchette^s topograph- 
 ical description of Canada, contains the most accu- 
 rate description of the St. Lawrence, the lakes, and 
 their tributary waters, and the country immediately 
 bordering upon, them, which has been published ; 
 and we cannot resist the desire which we feel to em 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 1$9 
 
 body it in this work ; although the extensive range 
 %yhich it takes, and its full and minute descriptions, 
 ^ive it a copiousness which somewhat exceeds the 
 limits that we had prescribed to ourselves upon this 
 subject. 
 
 " The river St. Lawrence (which from its first dis- 
 covery in 1565, has been called by the inhabitants of 
 the country, to mark its pre-eminence, the Great riv- 
 er,) receives nearly all the rivers, which have their 
 sources in the extensive range of mountains to the 
 northward, called the Land's Height, that separates 
 the waters falling into Hudson's Bay still further to 
 the north, from those that descend into the Atlantic; 
 and all those that rise in the ridge which commences 
 on its southern bank, and runs nearly south-westerly, 
 until it falls upon Lake Champlaiii. Of these, the 
 principal ones are the Ottawa, Musquinonge,St. Mau- 
 rice, St. Ann, Jacques Cartier, Saguenay, Betsiam- 
 ites, and Manitouagan on the north ; and the Salmon 
 river, Chateaugay, Chambiy or Richelieu, Yamaska, 
 St. Francis, Becancour, Du Chene, Chaudiere, and 
 Du Loup, on the south. In different parts of its 
 course, it is known under different appellations ; thus, 
 as high up from the sea as Montreal, it is called St. 
 Lawrence ; from Montreal to Kingston in Upper 
 Canada, it is called the Cataraqui, or Iroquois ; (Ca- 
 taraqui was the Indian name for the river Iroquois, 
 the name given by the French to the six nations) be- 
 tween lake Ontario and lake Erie, it is called Niaga- 
 
i90 LIFE. OF 
 
 ra river ; between lake Erie and lake St. Clair, the 
 Detroit ; between lake St. Clair and lake Huron, the 
 river St. Clair; and between lake Huron and lake 
 Superior, the distance is called the Narrows, or the 
 ialls of St. Mary, forming thus an uninterrupted con- 
 nexion of 2000 miles. Lake Superior, without the 
 aid of any great effort of imagination, may be consid- 
 ered as the inexhaustible spring from whence through 
 Unnumbered ages, the St. Lawrence has continued 
 to derive its ample stream. I am not aware that the 
 source of this river has thus been defined before; but 
 examining the usual mode of tracing large rivers from 
 their heads to the estuaries, 1 venture to believe that 
 I am warranted in adopting the hypothesis. This 
 immense lake, unequalled in magnitude by any col- 
 lection of fresh water on the globe, is almost of a tri" 
 cmgular form ; its greatest length is 381, its breadth 
 161, and its circumference little less than 1152 miles? 
 and as remarkable for the unrivalled transparency of 
 its waters, as for its extraordinary depth. Its north- 
 ern coast, indented with many extensive bays, is high 
 and rocky ; but on the southern shore the land is gen- 
 erally low and level ; a sea almost of itself, it is sub- 
 ject to many vicissitudes of that element, for here the 
 storm rages, and the billows break with a violence 
 scarcely surpassed by the tempests of the ocean. In 
 the distant range of mountains that forms the Land's 
 Height, beyond its northern and western shores, sev- 
 eral considerable rivers, and numerous small ones 
 
OLIVER H. PERRl^. 19| 
 
 have their rise, which being increased in their course 
 bj many snnall lakes, finally discharge themselves in- 
 to lake Superior. To the southward, also, there is 
 another lofty range, dividing the waters that find their 
 way to the Gulf of Mexico, through the channel of 
 the Mississippi, from those that take a northern course 
 into the great lake ; so that its vastness is increased 
 by the tributary streams of more than thirty rivers. 
 On its north and north-east sides, there are several 
 islands, of which one, called Isle Royale, is the lar^^- 
 est, being one hundred miles long, and forty broad. — 
 Out of lake Superior a very rapid current is interrup- 
 ted and broken by several small islands, or rather 
 huge masses of rock, through a channel of twenty- 
 seven miles in length, at the end of which, it flows 
 into lake Huron. The Falls of St. Mary are nearly 
 midway between the two lakes ; this denomination 
 though generally given, but little accords with the 
 usual appellation of Falls, as applied to the descent 
 of large bodies of vfater precipitated from great 
 heights, that so frequently occur on the rivers of 
 America ; for in this place, it is only the impetu- 
 ous stream of the enormous discharge from lake Su- 
 perior, forcing its way through a confined canneJ, 
 and breaking, with proportionate violence, among 
 the impediments that nature has thrown in its way ; 
 yet this scene of tumultuous and and unceasing agita- 
 tion of the waters, combined with the noise and dsez- 
 
192 f'^^^ <^^' 
 
 zling whiteness of the surge, is not deficient either n\ 
 grandeur or magnificence." 
 
 " Lake Huron, in point of extent, yields but little 
 to lake Superior, its greatest length from west to east 
 is 21 8 statute miles ; at its western extremity it is less 
 than one hundred, and at about one hundred miles 
 from its eastern shore, barely sixty miles broad ; but 
 near the centre it suddenly bends away southward, 
 to the breadth of one hundred and eighty miles ; mea- 
 suring the circumference through all its curvatures, 
 will give a distance of little less than 812 miles ; in 
 shape it is exceedingly irregular, yet, with little as- 
 sistance from fancy, may be fashioned into something 
 like a triangular. From its western side an exten- 
 sive series, called the Manatoulin Islands, stretches 
 in an easterly direction for one hundred and sixty 
 miles j many of them measuring from twenty to thir- 
 ty miles in length, by ten.^ twelve, and fifteen in 
 breadth, on some of which the land rises into eleva- 
 tions of considerable height. Besides this great chain, 
 there are many others of inferior dimensions, nume- 
 rously grouped in various parts, rendering the navi- 
 gation intricate, and in some places, and particularly 
 towards the west end, dangerous. On this lake also, 
 the navigation is often assailed by violent storms, at- 
 tended with thunder and lightning, more terrific than 
 in any other part of North America. At the western 
 angle of lake Huron is lake Michigan, which, altho' 
 distinguished by a separate name, can only be con- 
 
OLIVER H. PERKY, 193 
 
 aidered as a part of the former, deepening into a bay 
 of 262 miles in langth, by sixty-five in breadth, and 
 whose entire circumference, is 731 miles. Between 
 it and lake Huron there is a peninsula that, at the 
 widest part, is 150 miles, along which, and round 
 the bottom of Michigan, runs part of the chain form^ 
 ing the Land's Height, to the southward ; from whence 
 descend many large, and numerous inferior streams, 
 that discharge into it. On the north side of lake Hu- 
 ron, many rivers of considerable size, run from the 
 Land's Height down to it. One of them, called 
 French river, communicates with lake Nipissing, 
 from whence a succession of smaller ones, connec- 
 ted by short portages, opens an intercourse with the 
 Ottawa river, that joins the St. Lawrence near Mon- 
 treal. On the eastern extremity of the lake is the 
 Machedash river, which, through another succession 
 of lakes, separated only by one short portage, estab- 
 lishes a communication by lake Simcoe. Holland riv- 
 er, and Yonge-street, with the town of York, now 
 called the capital of Upper Canada ; this route would 
 most materially shorten the distance between the 
 upper and lower lakes, and is capable of such im- 
 provement, as would render it highly beneficial to 
 Upper Canada, a subject that will be hereafter ad- 
 verted to. From the extremity of lake Huron to the 
 southward, the course of the waters are contracted 
 into a river, (called St. Clair's) that flow between 
 moderately high banks, adorned by many natural 
 17 
 
194 LIFE OF 
 
 beauties, for a distance of sixty miles, nearly due 
 south, when it again expands into the small lake St. 
 Clair, almost circular in form, its diameter about 30 
 miles, and about 90 in circuit, too diminutive, when 
 compared with the preceding ones, (and not being 
 otherwise remarkable) to demand a further descrip- 
 tion. Out of this lake the waters again assume the 
 form of a river, (called Detroit) continuing the same 
 southerly course for 40 miles, into lake Erie ; its 
 stream is divided into two channels from space to 
 space, by islands of various sizes, the largest being 
 about ten miles long. On the east side of this river 
 the prospect is diversified and agreeable, displaying 
 some of the beauties of an exuberant soil, aided by a 
 very respectable state of cultivation, and enlivened 
 by the cheerful appearance of settlements and villa- 
 ges, gradually rising into consequence by the indus- 
 try of an increasing population. The Detroit opens 
 into the south-west end of lake Erie. This lake ex- 
 tends from south-west to north-east two hundred and 
 thirty-one miles, in its broadest part is 63 1-2, and 
 in circumference 658. Near the Detroit, it is adorn- 
 ed by many pleasing and picturesque islands, whilst 
 its shores on both sides, have many indications of 
 settlement and cultivation. Gales of wind frequent- 
 ly occur, and bring with them a heavy swell, with 
 every characteristic of a gale of wind at sea ; but 
 Here are many good harbours, particularly on the 
 
OLkVER H. PERRY. 195 
 
 northern side,*^ that afford protection to the numer- 
 ous vessels that navigate it. Its greatest depth of 
 water is between 40 and 45 fathoms, its bottom gen- 
 erally rocky, which renders the anchorage precari- 
 ous, particularly in blowing weather. From the 
 north-east end of lake Erie, the communication to 
 lake Ontario, is by the Niagara river, 36 miles in 
 length, and varying from half a mile to a league ia 
 breadth, its course nearly north. The stream in 
 some places is divided into two channels by islands, 
 the largest of which is seven miles in length. The 
 current is impetuous, and being broken in many pla- 
 ces by the uneven rocky bottom, is very much agita- 
 ted. The banks on each side of the river are almost 
 perpendicular, and considerably more than one hun- 
 dred yards high. On the western side the road pas- 
 
 *tiere the partiality ot'the Canadian appears. Lake Erie is 
 n[i4oi tiinately deficient in good harbours on both shores, Mit ifno 
 other circuin'^lance except the confluent rivers existed, that alone 
 wotild give a decided preference to the southern shore. It ^ a 
 singular fact that theOuse or Grand River, is the only stream of 
 any consequence which enters lake Erie irora the Canada shore ; 
 whilst on the opposite side enter the Cataraugns, Ashtabula, 
 Cayahoga, Black river, Vermiliiou, Huron oi'ihe state of Ohio, 
 Sandusky, IMaumee, Raisin and the southern Huron of ibe Mi- 
 chigan Territory ; and besides these, many of which afford good 
 shelter for vessels, are the harbours of Dunkirk and Erie, into 
 which no rivers are diserabogue<l. Put-in-Bay, in the southern 
 Bass island, is an excellent harbour, perhaps, except Detroit 
 river itself, the best irvlake Erie. [Darby's Tour, 
 
196 LIFE OP 
 
 ses along its summit, and delights the traveller with 
 many interesting views both of the river and the 
 country, which is thickly inhabited, and under excel- 
 lent culture. Here also his mind will be lost in won- 
 der, at viewing the stupendous falls of Niagara, un- 
 questionably one of the most extraordinary specta- 
 cles in nature, that presents to the imagination as pow- 
 erful a combination of sublimity and grandeur, mag- 
 nificence and terror, as it can well experience. Any 
 description, however animated, whether pourtrayed 
 by the glowing pencil of art, guided by the hveliest 
 fancy, or flowing from the most eloquent pen that em- 
 bellishes the page of narrative, would, most proba- 
 bly, fall short of doing adequate justice to the reali- 
 ty. The attempt, however, has been so frequently 
 made, and in some few instances with tolerable suc- 
 cess, as to convey an idea of its immensity, that, '' a 
 description of the Fall's of Niagara" has become fa- 
 miliar to almost every general reader. For this 
 reason, and also because in any new endeavour, I 
 should certainly feel but little confident of either 
 reaching the merit of the subject, or contributing to 
 the stock of knowledge already obtained thereon, I 
 will excuse myself from repeating what has been so 
 often related before, and proceed in describing with 
 xny best means, the general outlines of this majestic 
 river. 
 
 " Five miles from the great Falls is another, and 
 scarcely less tremendous natural curiosity, called thf 
 
OLIVER H. PERRr. 197 
 
 whirlpool. It is occasioned by the stream as it pas- 
 ses from the cataract, sweeping with impetuous vio- 
 lence round a natural basin enclosed between some 
 rocky promontories, wherein it forms a vortex, that 
 ensures inevitable destruction to whatever comes 
 within its attraction. By thus diverging from its 
 forward direction, and being as it were embayed for 
 a time, the velocity of the current is checked, and 
 subdued to a more tranquil course towards Lake On- 
 tario. Four miles from hence is Qucenstown, a neat, 
 well built placcy deserving of notice, as being the de- 
 pot for all merchandize and stores, brought from Mon- 
 treal and Quebec, for the use of the upper province ; 
 but not less so for the romantic beauty and local 
 grandeur of its situation. For seven miles further 
 on, to the town of Newark or Niagara, the river 
 forms an excellent capacious harbour for vessels of 
 any size, exceedingly well sheltered by high and 
 bold banks on each side, with good anchorage in ev- 
 ery part. The river of Niagara communicates with 
 the west end of Lake Ontario, rendered memorable 
 by events recently passed, and most probably destin- 
 ed to become the scene of contests, that will be preg- 
 nant with momentous import to North America, in 
 future ages. In length it is 171 miles, at its greatest 
 breadth 53 1-2, and 467 in circumference. The 
 depth of water varies very much, but is seldom less 
 than three, or more than fifty fathoms, except in the 
 middle, where attempts have been made with 300 
 
 *17 
 
Ids LIFE. OF 
 
 fathoms without striking soundings. Ita positioi ' 
 nearly east and west. The appearance of the sh( r^r 
 exhibits great diversity ; towards the north-east] 
 they are low, with many marshy places ; to the n< 
 and north-west, they assume a lofty character, but s 
 aide again to very moderate height on the south. 1 - 
 dering the lake the country is every where covered 
 with woods, through whose numerous openings fre- 
 quent patches of settlements are seen that give it a 
 pleasing effect, which is greatly heightened by the 
 white cliffs of Toronto, and the remarkable high land 
 over Presque Isle, called the Devil's Nose, on the 
 north ; the view on the south is well relieved with a 
 back ground produced by the ridge of hills that, after 
 forming the precipice for the cataract, stretches away 
 to the eastward ; the finishing object of the prospect 
 in this direction is a conical eminence towering above 
 the chain of heights, called Fifty Mile Hill, as deno- 
 ting its distance frem the town of Niagara. Of the 
 many rivers flowing into Lake Ontario, if the Gene- 
 see and Oswego rivers be excepted, there are none 
 that lay claim to particular notice, unless it be for the 
 peculiarity of them having a sandy bar across the en- 
 trance. There are some fine bays and inlets, where- 
 in vessels of every description may find protection 
 against bad weather. Burlington bay is both spa- 
 cious and secure ; but these advantages are rendered 
 of little importance by its narrow entrance being so 
 shallow as to admit nothing larger than boats. Hun- 
 
OLIVER H. FSRRV. 198 
 
 gry bay, on the contrary, is conspicuous, as affording 
 good anchorage, and safe shelter among the islands, 
 to ships of the largest size, at all seasons. York and 
 Kingston harbours, belonging to the English, and 
 Sackett's Harbour to the Americans, are unquestion- 
 ably the best upon the lake, as they possess every 
 natural requsite ; the two latter are strongly fortified, 
 being the arsenals where ships of war, even of the 
 first rate, have been constructed by both powers, 
 and from whence have been fitted out those power- 
 ful hostile squadrons, that have conferred so much 
 consequence upon the naval operations in this quar- 
 ter. Very heavy squalls of wind frequently occur, 
 but they are unattended with eihter difficulty or dan- 
 ger, if met by the usual precautions every seaman is 
 acquainted with. 
 
 " Of the many islands at the east end of Ontario, 
 the Grand Isle, lying abreast of Kingston, is the most 
 extensive, and by being placed at the commence- 
 ment of the Cataraqui river, forms two channels 
 leading into it, that bear the name of the North, or 
 Kingston Channel, and the South, or Charlton Isl- 
 and Channel. Cataraqui, from its entrance to the 
 place called Petit Detroit, about 39 miles, is almost 
 filled with one continued cluster of small islands, so 
 numerous as to have occasioned the general denomi- 
 nation of Milles Isles. The distance between Kings- 
 ton and Montreal is about 190 miles ; the banks of 
 the river display a scene that cannot fail to excit* 
 
2jQP LIPE OF 
 
 surprize, when the years that have elapsed since the 
 first settlement of this part of the country (in 1783,) 
 are considered. They embrace all the embellish- 
 ments of a numerous population, fertility, and good 
 cultivation. Well constructed high roads lead- 
 ing close to each side, with others branching from 
 them into the interior, render communication both 
 easy and expeditious, whilst the numerous loaded 
 batteaux and rafts incessantly passing up and down^ 
 from the beginning of spring, until the latter 
 end of autumn, demonstrate, unequivocally, a very 
 extensive commercial intercourse. The islands, the 
 shoals, the rapids, with contrivances for passing them 
 form, altogether, a succession of novelties that gives 
 pleasure, while it creates astonishment. 
 
 *' Before reaching Montreal, the lakes St. Francis, 
 St. Louis, and des Montagiies, present themselves : 
 they do not admit of comparison with those already 
 noticed, and can indeed, only be considered as so 
 many widenings of the river. They are of no great 
 depth, but form an agreeable variety, by having ma^ 
 ny pretty islands scattered about them^ St. Fran- 
 cis is 25 miles long, by 5 1-2 miles broad ; the shores 
 in some places are marshy, as they do not rise much 
 above the level of the water. St. Louis and Deux 
 Montagues, are formed at the junction of the Otta- 
 wa with the St. Lawrence : the first is 12 miles loner 
 hj 6 broad j the latter is very irregular, and in its 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 201 
 
 whole Jength 34 miles, but varying in breadth from i 
 to 6 miles. 
 
 " At the confluence of the two rivers are the islands 
 of Montreal, isle Jesus, Bizarre, and Perrot ; the first 
 is probably the most beautiful spot of all Lower Ca- 
 nada. On the north side of this island is the city of 
 the same name, and its convenient port, 580 miles 
 from the gulph of St. Lawrence, to which ships of six 
 hundred tons can ascend with very little difficulty. 
 On the north-west lies isle Jesus, that, by its position, 
 forms two other channels of a moderate breadth, one 
 called la Riviere des Prairies, and the other la Rivi- 
 ere de St. Jean, or Jesus. They are both navigable 
 for boats or rafts, and unite again with the main riv- 
 er at Boat de V Isle, or east end of Montreal island. 
 From this city, tlie navigation assumes a character of 
 more consequence than what it does above, being 
 carried on in ships and decked vessels of all classes. 
 In the distance from hence to Quebec, 180 miles, the 
 impediments to vessels of large tonnage sailing either 
 up or down are not many, and may be overcome with 
 much ease, if it be judged expedient that their car- 
 goes should be so conveyed, in preference to trans- 
 porting them in smwill craft. On either side, the pros- 
 pect is worthy of admiration. The different seign- 
 iorities, all in the highest state of improvement that 
 the agriculture of the country will admit of, denote 
 both affluence and industry. The views are always 
 pleasing and often beautiful, although the component 
 
."202 LIf E OF 
 
 parts of them do not possess that degree of grandeur | 
 which is perceivable below Quebec. Numerous vil- 
 lages built around a handsome stone church, seem to 
 invite the traveller's attention, while single houses 
 and farms at agreeable distance, appear to keep up 
 a regular chain of communication. In fact, whoever 
 passes from one city to the other, whether by water 
 or by land, will not fail to have his senses highly 
 gratified, and to meet with m^ny subjects worthy 
 both of observation and reflection. About 45 miles 
 below Montreal, on the south side, is the town of 
 William Henry, or Sorrel, built at the entrance of 
 the river Richelieu into the St. Lawrence, not 
 far from which the latter spreads into another lake, 
 the last in its progress towards the sea ; it is called 
 St. Peters, is 25 miles long and 9 broad ; like most of 
 the others, this has a group of islands covering about 
 9 miles of the western part ; between them two dis- 
 tinct channels are formed, the one to the south being 
 the deepest and clearest, is consequently the best for 
 ships. The banks on each side are very low, with 
 shoals stretchingfrom them to a considerable distance, 
 so that only a narrow passage, whose general depth 
 is from 12 to 18 (eet, is left unobstructed. About 45 
 miles from William Henry on the north side, at the 
 mouth of the river St. Maurice, stands the town of 
 Three Rivers, the third in rank within the province. 
 At this place the tide ceases entirely, and, indeed, is 
 not much felt at several miles below : from hence 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 20S 
 
 there is scarce any variation in the general aspect of 
 the St. Lawrence, until arriving at the Richelieu ra- 
 pid (about 52 miles,) where its bed is so much con- 
 tracted or obstructed by huge masses of rock, as to 
 leave but a very narrow channel, wherein at ebb tide 
 there is so great a descent, that much caution, and a 
 proper time of the ebb is necessary to pass through it; 
 at the end of the rapid, there is a good anchorage, 
 where vessels can wait their convenient opportunity. 
 From Montreal, thus far, the banks are of a very mo- 
 derate elevation, and uniformly level, but hereabout 
 they are much higher, and gradually increase in their 
 approach to Quebec, until they attain the height of 
 Cape Diamond, upon which the city is built. At this 
 capital of the province and seat of government, there 
 is a most excellent port and a capacious basin, where= 
 in the greatest depth of water is 28 fathoms, with a 
 tide rising from 17 to 18, and at the springs, from 23 
 to 24 feet. From whence, and from Point Levi on 
 the south shore, one of the most striking panoramic 
 views, perhaps, in the whole world, offers itself to 
 notice ; the assemblage of objects is so grand, and 
 though naturally, yet appear so artificially contrasted 
 with each other, that they mingle surprize with the 
 gratification of every beholder. The capital upon 
 Uie summit of the cape, the river St, Charles, flowing 
 for a great distance, through a valley, abounding in 
 natural beauties, the falls of Montmorency, the island 
 of Orleans, and the well cultivated settlements on all 
 
204 LIFE OF 
 
 sides, form together a coup d' ei3, that might enter 
 into competition with the most romantic. At the 
 basin, the St. Lawrence is two miies across, and con- 
 tinues increasing in breadth until it enters the gulf 
 of the same name, where, from Cape Rosier to the 
 Mingan settlement on the Labrador shore, it is very 
 near 105 miles wide. A little below the city is the 
 Isle of Orleans, placed in the midway, consequently 
 forming two channels ; the one to the south is always 
 used by ships, the shore on that side is high, and on 
 the opposite, in some places, it is even mountainous, 
 but in both, extremely well settled, and the lands in 
 such a high state of improvement, that a large tract 
 in the vicinity of Riviere du Sud, is familiarly cal- 
 led the granary of the province. Beyond the island 
 of Orleans, are several others, as Goose Island, Crane 
 island, and many smaller ones ; these two are tole- 
 rably well cultivated, but the rest are neglected. At j 
 Riviere du Sud, the great river is increased to eleven 
 miles in width, and the country that adjoins it, can- ] 
 not be easily rivalled in its general appearance. The '< 
 great number of churches, telegraph stations, and ; 
 villages, whose houses are almost always whitened, 
 are so well exhibited by the dark contia-t of the thick 
 woods, covering the rising grounds behind them up 
 to their summits, and the termination so completely 
 defined by the distant range of lofty mountains form- ^ 
 ing the boundary before noticed, that very few land- |j 
 scapes will be found actually superior to it. Be* 
 
QLIVER H. PLRRY. §05 
 
 jond Ptivierc du Sud, is a channel named the Tra- 
 verse, which deserves mention from the circumstance 
 of the river being here thirteen miles across ; yet 
 the Isic aux Coudres, the shoal of St. Roche, and 
 another called the English Bank, interrupt the fair 
 way so much, that this passage, which is the usual 
 one the pilots choose, is not more than from 1700 to 
 1800 yards, between the two buoys that mark the 
 edge of the shoals ; it is the most intricate part of the 
 river below Quebec, the currents are numerous, ir- 
 regular and very strong, on which large ships must 
 consult the proper time of the tide to pass it without 
 accident. On the north shore between the Isle au>: 
 Coudres, and the main, there is another channel, but 
 the current is so rapid, the depth of the water so great, 
 ,ind the holding ground so bad in case of being obli- 
 ged to anchor within it, that pilots give the prefer- 
 <jnce to running through the Traverse. Not the 
 smallest difficulty will ever be found in making this 
 passage good, if tlie bearings and directions laid down 
 upon my topographical map be duly attended to. 
 Passing the Traverse, a very agreeable view of the 
 settlements of the bay of St. Paul, enclosed within 
 an ampitheatre of very high hills, and the well culti- 
 vated Isle aux Coudres at its entrance, presents it- 
 self. Continuing down the river, the next in suces- 
 sion are the islands of Kamourasca, the Pilgrims, 
 Hare Island, and (he cluster of small ones near it, 
 named the Brandy Pots, these are reckoned 1103 
 
206 LIPE OF 
 
 miles from Quebec, and well known as the rendez^ 
 vous, where the merchant ships collect to sail with 
 convoj. From hence, at no great distance, is Green 
 island, on which is a light-house, where a light is 
 shewn from sun-set to sun-rise, from the 15th of 
 April to the 10th of December. Near Green island 
 is Red island, and abreast of it, on the northern 
 shore, is the mouth of the river Saguenay, remarka- 
 ble even in America, for the immense volume of wa- 
 ter it pours into the St. Lawrence. Proceeding on- 
 wards is Bic island, 153 miles from Quebec, a point 
 that ships always endeavour to make on account of 
 its good anchorage, as well as being the place where 
 men of war usually wait the coming down of the 
 merchantmen ; next to Bic island, is the Isle St. Bar- 
 liabe, and a little farther on the Point aux Peres.— 
 From this point the river is perfectly clear to the 
 gulf, and the pilots being unnecessary any longer, 
 here give up their charge of such as are bound out- 
 wards, and receive those destined upwards. Below 
 Point aux Peres, are two very extraordinary moun- 
 tains, close to each other, called the Paps of Matane, 
 and nearly opposite them the bold and lofty prom- 
 ontory of Mount Pelee, where the river is little more 
 than 25 miles wide, but the coast suddenly stretches 
 almost northerly, so much, that at the seven islands, 
 it is increased to 73 miles. The settlements on the 
 south side reach down thus far, but hereabouts, they 
 may be considered to terminate, as to the eastward 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 207 
 
 of cape Chat, the progress of industry is no longer 
 visible ; on the north side, the cultivated lands ex- 
 tend only to Malbay. In the river itself, nothing 
 (farther,) claims our attention, except the separation 
 of its shores to the distance already nientioned, from 
 cape Rosier to the Mingan settlement. 
 
 " I must still trespass upon the patience of my rea- 
 ders long enough to mention, that the observations 
 hither made, apply only to one part of the year; and 
 also, to notice, that from the beginning of Decem- 
 ber, until the middle of April, the w^ater communica- 
 tion is totally suspended by the frost. During this 
 period, the river from Quebec to Kingston, and be- 
 tween the great lakes, except the Niagara and the 
 rapids, is wholly frozen over. The lakes themselves 
 are never entirely covered with ice, but it usually 
 shuts up all the bays and inlets, and extends many 
 miles towards their centres. Below Quebec it is not 
 frozen over, but the force of the tides incessantly 
 detaches the ice from the shores, and such immense 
 masses are kept in continual agitation by the flux and 
 reflux, that navigation is totally impracticable in 
 these months. But though for this length of winter, 
 the land and water are so nearly identified, the util- 
 ity of the river, if it be diminished, is far from being 
 wholly destroyed, for its surface still offers the best 
 route for land carriage, (if the metaphor can be ex- 
 cused ;) and tracks are soon marked out by which a 
 more expeditious intercourse is maintained by vehi- 
 
..les of transport of all descriptions, than it would be 
 possible to do on the established roads, at this sea- 
 son so deeply covered with snov/, and which are 
 available until the approach of spring makes the ice 
 porous, and warm springs occasioning large i3aws, 
 render it unsafe. When this alteration takes placed 
 it soon breaks up, and by the beginning of May, is 
 either dissolved or carried off by the current. 
 
 •'The gulf of St. Lawrence, that receives the wa- 
 ters of tins gigantic river, is formed between the wes- 
 tern part of Newfoundland, the eastern shores of 
 Labrador, the eastern extremity of the province of 
 New-Brunswick, part of the province of Nova Sco- 
 tia, and the island of Cape Breton. It communi- 
 cates with the Atlantic ocean by three different pas- 
 sages, viz. : on the north by the straits of Belleisle, 
 between Labrador and Newfoundland ; on the south- 
 east by the passage from cape Ray ; the south-west 
 extremity of the latter island, and the north cape of 
 Breton Island ; and lastly by the narrow channel 
 named the gut of Canso, that divids cape Breton 
 from Nova Scotia. The distance from cape Breton 
 to cape Ray is 79 leagues, and from Nova Scotia to 
 Labrador one hundred and six." 
 
 Although the character of (his work calls our at- 
 tention more particularly to lake Erie, and its bor- 
 ders, which were the scenes of the naval and milita- 
 ry operations upon Hie north western frontier, yet as 
 ■his lake i^ an intermedial and connecting Jink in the 
 
OLIVER H, PERRY. 209 
 
 irreat chain of water communication which drains the 
 valley of the St. Lawrence, and as these immense 
 waters have, in some measure, an identity of charac- 
 ter, we have given a coniiected view of the whole. 
 We will return to Lake Erie, and close our topo- 
 graphical descriptions, by a concise view of that por- 
 tion of the country upon its borders, and upon those 
 of the Detroit river and lake Michigan, which have 
 become historic ground. 
 
 The navigation of Lake Erie is less safe than might 
 be supposed ; the wind frequently blows upon it 
 with great violence, and it is visited by gales almost 
 as severe and dangerous as those which occur upon 
 the Atlantic coast. And what renders these gales 
 more appalling is, that there are no good and safe 
 harbours in the north-eastern extremity of the lake, 
 A tremendous gale occurred on this lake in Novem- 
 ber, 1819, which did extensive damage.* The best 
 
 *The foMowing arcount of l!ie damage occasioned by this 
 gale, appeared in Hie Clevelatul Register, ot* November 24tli. 
 
 " T he schooner Independence, of Sandnsky, John Brooks 
 maslerand oivncr, cleared irorn the monlh of Black river, on 
 Saturday, the lllh inst., for Detroit, loaded with corn. The 
 vessel was capsized in the gale, the cargo lost, and every soul 
 on board droivncd. '1 he wreck drifted on shore near the naoutli 
 of Grand river. A wreck of a vessel, bottom upwards, was seen 
 off tiie mojith of Grand river. Sri. ooner Pauline was driven on 
 shore near the onouth of (jraud river, and bilged ; hercrew sav- 
 ed^ bat her cargo, consisting of salt, lost. Schooner Boxer, 
 
 *]8 
 
210 LIFE OF 
 
 and (he principal part of the harbours upon lake Erie 
 are upon the American side; of which Put-in-Bay, 
 famou? for having been the place where Perrj's 
 squadron lay previously to the action of the 1 0th of 
 Septennber, is, perhaps, the safest and most valuable; 
 the harbour of Detroit, upon the Detroit river, not 
 being considered as belonging to lake Erie. 
 
 Of the country bordering upon lake Erie, there is 
 none that has equal claims upon our attention with 
 the tract, which during the war, was called the Indian 
 country in the state of Ohio, comprising the north- 
 western section of that state. This tract, which was the 
 scene of so many disasters of our troops, and whose 
 soil had been stained with thebloodof ourdefenceless 
 inhabitants, the victims of Indian outrage and massa- 
 cre, was rescued from the dominion of the tomahawk 
 and scalping-knife, by the victory upon lake Erie. 
 Here the effects of that victory were the most imme- 
 diately and conspicuously felt. 
 
 lying iu the mouth of Grand river, dismantled, bilged, and a 
 complete wreck, crew saved : schooner Wasp dismantled and 
 driven on shore at the raouth of Cunningham's creek, and bilg- 
 ed ; her crew saved, bnt cargo lost : schooner General Brown 
 ^as driven on shore, near the montli of Black river, her crew 
 all safe, but the vessel considerably damaged : schooner Geue- 
 ralJack«on, left Green Bay, on Lake Mi<higau, for IVlackinawi 
 some time since, and has not been since heard of: fears are en- 
 iertiined for her safety. British brig Lord Wellington, of Cana- 
 da, wav driven on shoie at point Abino, and went tn pieces : 
 crew saved, but cargo losk 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY, 21 i 
 
 This interesting portion of the western country, is 
 situated between the 40th and 42d degress of north 
 latitude. Its average length, from north to south, 
 is about 100 miles, with a medial breadth of about 
 the same, comprising nearly 7,000,000 acres of excel- 
 lent land. The face of the country is either per- 
 fectly level, or pleasingly diversified with gentle em- 
 inences, and moderate vales. Contrary to what usu- 
 ally occurs, the most hilly parts are not situated in 
 that section which is the source of the rivers, 
 but contiiijuous to the lake. The southern part of 
 Miis territory stretching along the late Indian boun- 
 dary line, and which embraces the source of a num-- 
 ber of rivers, some running south into the Ohio, oth- 
 ers north into lake Erie, is very flat, and contains 
 numerous small lakes, from whence many of the riv- 
 ers originate. Near the lake income parts, the 
 country abounds with beautiful plains or prairies 
 some of which are many miles in extent, and appar- 
 ently as level as the surface of the lake. These 
 plains, in the seasons of vegetation, are covered with 
 a natural grass, that often grows six or eight feet 
 high, with which is interspersed a rich variety of 
 fragrant flowers. The traveller, after traversing for 
 miles, a thick and gloomy forest, presenting a painful 
 uniformity of objects, suddenly emerging from the 
 dreariness of the wilderness, enters upon these vir- 
 gin plains, decked with the richest verdure, with the 
 most delightful and enlivening sensations. So sud- 
 
212 LIFE OF 
 
 den and so great is the change of scenery, that he al- 
 most doubts the evidence of his senses — He hesitates 
 whether the scene before liim is a reahtj, or the il- 
 lusions of a vision. 
 
 The soil throughout this whole tract, is of the first 
 quality, and not surpassed by any in the western 
 country. Its waters are abundant and valuable. It 
 is intersected by a number of beautiful rivers, of 
 which the Maumee, rendered famous by the events 
 of the war, is the most important. The Au Glaize, 
 the St. Joseph's, and the St. Mary's, are the princi- 
 pal branches of the Maumee. Besides these are 
 Portage and Sandusky rivers, and other inconsidera- 
 ble streams, which discharge their waters into Lake 
 Erie. 
 
 Such is the country which was infested with In- 
 dians during the war, and which was the scene of so 
 many outrages. Such the unequalled soil, and the 
 unrivalled waters, which for a succession of ages have 
 been occupied for hunting grounds and fishing ponds ; 
 but the barrier to civiHzation having been removed, 
 the one will now shortly become cultivated fields, and 
 the other ports of entry. Upon lake Erie, within this 
 territory, there are several harbours at the mouths of 
 the rivers, and elsewhere. That of Put-in-Bay, al- 
 ready noticed, situated at the cluster of islands called 
 Bass islands, near the western extremity of the lake, 
 has become distinguished, from having been the sta- 
 tion of Perry's squadron, both before and subsequent 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 213 
 
 to the action, it was evidently the intention of the 
 enemy to have attacked our squadron, whilst at an- 
 
 i chor in this bay ; but the vigilance of Perry, and the 
 activity of his officers and men, deprived the enemy 
 
 i of this intended advantage ; the moment they were 
 
 I discovered, Perry's squadron was got under way^ 
 
 i and stood out to meet them. 
 
 Upon the beautiful river Maumee, stood fort 
 Meigs, which for a considerable time, formed the 
 
 igreat barrier to the north-western frontier, and was 
 
 I the scene of many of the distressing vicissitudes of 
 
 Ithe war. Here the unfortunate defeat of Colonel 
 Dudley occurred, which involved the fate of many 
 of the brave sons of Kentucky, and swelled the dis- 
 
 jastrous notes •f the war upon this devoted frontier ; 
 and here, in many of the sorties from the fort, the 
 Americans displayed their characteristic bravery and 
 ardour, and finally had the satisfaction to witness the 
 
 (precipitate retreat of the enemy. 
 
 Off the coast of this territory, the great naval ac- 
 
 Htion upon lake Erie was fought ; when, for the first 
 time, the cannonry of contending fleets, resounded 
 through its forests, and, for the first time, the tro- 
 phies of victory were brought within its waters. 
 
 As this portion of the westtrn country was expos- 
 ed to all the horrors of Indian hostility, and was des- 
 tined to experience a large portion of the evils of 
 Trar \ so on the other hand, there was perhaps no 
 3>ther section which, in the sequel, derived equal ad- 
 
214 LlPE Of 
 
 rantages from it. The Indians belonging to the tribes 
 within this tract, who took a part iii the war against 
 the United States, retired and left their lands. From 
 this, and other causes growing out of the war, the 
 Indians were induced to dispose of their lands ; and 
 accordingly, in 1818, they ceded their title to the 
 whole of this tract, with the exception of some reser- 
 vations, to the United States, The lands are now 
 about to be surveyed, and brought into market; and 
 the country opened for settlement. 
 
 The events of the war also led the Americans to 
 traverse this territory, and to become acquainted with 
 its advantages, as to surface, soil, waters, and loca- 
 tion, which before were but imperfectly known. — 
 Considering all the advantages which it unites, and 
 the population which the settled parts of the state 
 already possess, there can be no doubt.vl^ut that it 
 will settle with a rapidity not surpassed in any other 
 section of the western country. This tract, as it 
 does not contain scarcely an acre of land which is 
 not susceptible of cultivation, is capable of sustain- 
 ing a dense population, and when settled, will swell 
 nearly one fourth, the population of the state. 
 
 In noticing these sections of the north-western 
 frontier, which were relieved from the evils of war, 
 and the horrors of Indian outrag:e, by the victory up- 
 on lake Erie, the territory of Michigan, and that vast 
 district west of lake Michigan, and south of lake Su 
 perior, which fell into the hands of the Britith from 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 215 
 
 the inglorious surrender of General Hull, and the 
 capture of fort Mackinaw, claim a conspicuous atten- 
 tion. Scarcely had the enemy possessed themselves 
 of the fort and town of Detroit, before the articles of 
 capitulation were violated, in the most perfidious and 
 shameless manner. The faith of British officers had 
 been pledged for the protection of the persons and 
 property of the inhabitants of the territory ; yet they 
 were immediately exposed to every species of vio- 
 lence, and depredation which a barbarian foe, flush- 
 ed with victory, could perpetrate. Many of these 
 acts of violence and outrage, were committed under 
 the eye of Colonel Proctor, who commanded at De- 
 troit. The territory had remained in this situation 
 for more than twelve months, when the victory upon 
 lake Erie occurred, which dispelled the gloom with 
 which it was overcast, and restored to the afflicted 
 inhabitants, the blessings of peace, and the protec- 
 tion of the laws and government of their country. 
 
 The beautiful Peninsula which constitutes the Mi- 
 chigan territory, is delightfully situated between 
 lakes Erie, St. Clair, Huron and Michigan, and is 
 nearly 250 miles in length, from north to south, and 
 from 150 to 200 in breadth, from east to west, com- 
 prising about 37,000 square miles. This territory 
 being nearly encircled by water, has an extensive 
 lake border, which is indented by numerous bays 
 and inlets, affording many good harbours, and great 
 facilities for navigation and the fisheries. Its interi- 
 
216 LIFE OF 
 
 or is watered by numerous convenient and naviga 
 ble rivers, which intersect and fertilize it, in every 
 direction. Of these rivers, the most considerable 
 are the Raisin, the Huron of lake Erie, the Huron 
 of Lake St. Clair, and the St. Joseph, which falls 
 into lake Michigan. Upon the banks of the river 
 Raisin, is situated Frenchtown, rendered famous by 
 the defeat of General Winchester, and the shocking 
 massacre of the American prisoners. This was ori- 
 ginally a French settlement, as were most of the oth- 
 ers within this territory. Those parts of the territo- 
 ry which have been explored, are said to possess a 
 strong and rich soil, and to be well calculated for ag- 
 ricultural purposes. 
 
 Most of the settlements are on the eastern bor- 
 der of the territory, about Detroit, and upon the riv- 
 er Raisin. Detroit is the principal settlement, and 
 is an incorporated city. It possesses one of the 
 best harbours upon the interior waters ; has a very 
 advantageous location, and promises to become a 
 large interior commercial town. ISext to Detroit 
 in importance, are the new town of Munroe, on 
 the river Raisin, and the village of Mackinaw, sit- 
 uated on the island of the same name, in Lake 
 Huron. The whole population of Michigan terri- 
 tory, at the present time, may be estimated at a- 
 bout 12,000, and it is rapidly increasing. 
 
 The Indian country, which we have already noti- 
 ced, in the north-western part of the state of Ohio, 
 
OLIVER M. PERRY. 217 
 
 interposing between that state and the Michigan ter- 
 ritory, when in the possession of the Indians, formed 
 an almost insuperable barrier to the settlement of 
 (his territory. But this barrier is now removed, and 
 exertions are making to promote the settlement o' 
 the territory. The Indian title to a considerable 
 proportion of the land, has been extinguished, and 
 large tracts are about to be brought into market.— 
 From these considerations, and the known advanta- 
 ges of the territory, it promises to receive an acces» 
 sion to its population, which at no distant period, 
 will render it a respectable member of the confede 
 racy. 
 
 The extensive country west of lake Michigan, and 
 south of lake Superior, extending to the Blississippij 
 comprises that part of the immense region which ori- 
 ginally constituted the north-western territory, which 
 is not comprised in the states that have been formed 
 within the limits of that territory. It lies north of 
 the state of Illinois, extending north to lake Superi- 
 or, and is now attached to the territorial government 
 of Michigan. This extensive region, comprises near- 
 ly 150,000 square miles. It has an extensive lake 
 border on the north and east, is washed by the Mis- 
 sissippi on the west, and its interior is watered by nu- 
 merous rivers, some of which are large and afford 
 important navigable advantages. Of these the Ouis- 
 consin, which communicates with the Mississippi, 
 and the Fox river, which discharges its waters into 
 TO 
 
218 LIFE OF 
 
 Green Bay, upon the western border of lake Micia- 
 gan, are the most considerable. Both of these riv- 
 ers are distinguished for the extensive and unequal- 
 led advantages which they afford for navigation, hav- 
 ing more the character of inland canals, than that of 
 rivers, and from the circumstances of their courses 
 being such as to nearly open a communication be- 
 tween lake Michigan and the Mississippi. The bor- 
 ders of these rivers present a beautiful and interest- 
 ing country. 
 
 This extensive territory unites the advantages of a 
 healthy climate, abundant waters, and in general, an 
 excellent soil ; and although its location is not such 
 as to promote an immediate and rapid settlement, 
 yet from its numerous advantages, and the enter- 
 prize and perseverance of our citizens, in tiie forma- 
 tion of new settlements, not many years can elapse 
 before it will become an important member of the 
 American Union. 
 
 Having taken a view of tiie country upon the 
 American side of lake Erie, which was either the 
 seat of the operations of the war, or reheved from 
 its evils and the horrors of Indian hostility, by the na- 
 val victory of tlie lOth September, we will close our 
 topographical descriptions, with a succinct account 
 of the western disiiicfs in Upper Canada, bordering 
 upon lake Eric, and which comprise the scenes of 
 the closing event? of the war upon the north-wcsterR 
 frontier. 
 
OLIVER K. 1-ERRY. i219 
 
 Within tlife district, although belonging to the en- 
 emy, the inhabitants were indebted to Perry for the 
 restoration of the blessings of peace and security. — 
 Yes, as strange as it nnay seem, the conquest of the 
 country relieved the inhabitants from the evils of 
 war, and restored tranquility to their borders. But 
 it is to be remembered that this conquest was made 
 by Hiirrison and Perry. This is a sufficient explana- 
 tion of this enigma. — What a contrast between the 
 situation of this district, when in the occupation of 
 the Americans, and that of the territory of Michi 
 gan, when occupied by the British. The inhabit- 
 ants of the former having long been harrassed with 
 the evils of war, and exposed to Indian violence and 
 depredation, were by the termination of the war up- 
 ♦^n that frontier, and the pacification or dispersion of 
 the Indians, relieved from these embarrassments^ 
 and their persons and property, perhaps, more effec- 
 tually protected, tlian wiiat they were before the oc- 
 cupation of the country by the American troops. 
 
 The victories of lake Erie and the Thames 
 brought peace to the British north-western border? 
 as well as to the American. And by the inhabitants 
 of the British side of lake Erie, as well as by those 
 of the 7\merican, Perry and Harrison might have 
 been hailed as the " deliverers of the frontier." — 
 Their conquest was not of the inhabitants, but of the 
 British troops, and the hostile Indians ; tlie latter of 
 which, are scarcely loss troublesome to the inliabit- 
 
hlFR OF 
 
 ants of the country emplojing them, than to those 
 upon the territory of the enemy. Their spirit of 
 hostihty, which the war, aided by the exertions of 
 ihe British had elicited, subsided, with the expiring 
 Tiote of British cannon upon the Thames. After this 
 event, they were disposed to bury the tomahawk, 
 and retire to their hunting grounds. 
 
 The Canadians upon this frontier, as well as the 
 Americans on the other side of the lake, were no 
 longer harrassed by Indian depredation and outrage. 
 They had no claims to protection from the express 
 provisions of articles of capitulation, as had the in- 
 habitants of Detroit. But they did not want this. 
 They had a much better guarantee in the integrity, 
 the honour, and the humanity of their conquerors. 
 They fell into the hands of Harrison and Perry. It 
 is not necessary to contrast this picture, with that of 
 the territory of Michigan, whilst occupied by the 
 British. We have already enlarged sufficiently up- 
 on the shocking scenes which occurred within that 
 territory, and we have no disposition to repeat the 
 horrid detail — It is too revolting to the feelings of 
 humanity. But did we wish to present the one in 
 contrast with the other, we could not do it more 
 strikingly than hy saying, that the one fell into the 
 hands of Harrison and Perry, and the other into 
 those of Proctor, 
 
 We extract from the same author from whom wc 
 have copied the fkscripfiori of the waters of the St. 
 
OLIVER H. PERSY. 221 
 
 Lawrence, and the interior lakes, the following el- 
 egant, yet concise sketch of the western district of 
 Upper Canada. 
 
 '• Along the northern part of the Niagara district 
 runs a ridge called the Queenstown heights, stretch- 
 ing across the river Niagara, and away eastward into 
 the state of New- York ; the altitude of this range in 
 any part of it, does not exceed 160 yards above the 
 surface of the lake, (Ontario.) This space, contain- 
 ing the Newcastle, the Home, and the Niagara dis- 
 tricts, is watered by a great number of streams, both 
 large and small, that greatly contribute to its fc itili- 
 iy. In the latter dii^trict is the Wclland, formerly 
 called the Chippewa, a beautiful river, flowing thro' 
 a remarkable fertile country, for about forty miles, 
 and wholly unobstructed by falls ; also the Ouse, or 
 Grand river, a stream of much greater magnitude, 
 rising in the interior of the country, towards lake 
 Huron, and after winding a long and picturesque 
 course, falls into lake Erie : across its mouth there is 
 a bar, but always with eight het water upon it. It 
 is navigable for sniall vessels from the lake many 
 miles upwards, and for boats to a much greater dis- 
 tance. 
 
 " The land through the whole of the last mention- 
 ed district, is uncommonly lich and fertile, with a 
 considerable portion of very flourishing settlements 
 upon it. From the river Ouse, proceedinir along the 
 shore of lake Erie, up to the lake and river St. Ciaii% 
 
 19* 
 
22^2 LIFE OF 
 
 the whole space is remarkably even, with scarcely a 
 league of it but what displays excellent situations for 
 settlements, and in spots where the land is already 
 under tillage. Finer crops, or more thriving farms 
 are not to be met with in any part of either prov- 
 ince. 
 
 *' The portion of the western district, lying be- 
 tween lake Erie and lake St. Clair, is perhaps the 
 most delightful of all the province. The fertility of 
 the soil, the richly diversified and luxurient beauties 
 that every where court the view, the abundant varie- 
 ty of excellent fish that teem in the rivers, and the 
 profusion of game of different species that enliven the 
 woods, the thickets and the meadows, combine to in- 
 sure a preference to this highly favoured tract for the 
 establishment of new settlements. 
 
 '' From the Ouse to lake St. Clair, the space is oc- 
 cupied by the London and Western districts ; it is 
 watered by many small streams falling into lake Erie, 
 besides the river Chenal Ecarte, and the exquisitely 
 picturesque river Thames, formerly called the riviere 
 a la Franche. The latter rises far in the interior, 
 about the township of Blandford, and after pursuing a 
 serpentine course in a direction nearly south-west, 
 discharges itself into lake St, CJair. It is navigable 
 for vessels full twenty miles from its mouth, and for 
 boats and canoes, nearly up to its source, but little 
 less than one hundred miles. The river Chenal 
 Ecarte runs almost parallel to the Thames, at about 
 
OLIVER H. PERRV. 223 
 
 ten miles from it, and also falls into lake St. Clair, 
 The portions now described, are those only that are 
 more or less settled upon. In the rear of the town-? 
 ships are large tracts of land stretching far to the 
 northward, covered with immense forests, and little 
 known except to the Indians ; but it has been ascer- 
 tained that there are many wide spreading extents of 
 rich and fertile soil, particularly bordering upon the 
 south-west bank of the Ottawa river. Through 
 these regions, as yet unexplored by civilized man, 
 there are many streams, and some of great size that 
 flow both into lake Huron and into the Ottawa river, 
 but none of them have been sufficiently traced to ad- 
 mit of being delineated on any map. Timber in al- 
 most every variety, is found in the greatest profu- 
 sion ; the oak, beech, walnut, (hickory) ash, maplcj 
 elm, pine, sycamore, birch, and many other sorts, are 
 of peculiar excellence, and of capital dimensions. — 
 The chmate is so peculiarly salubrious, that epidem- 
 ic diseases, either amongst men or cattle, are almost 
 unknown ; its influence upon the fertiHty of the soil 
 is more generally perceptible than it is in Lower 
 Canada, and supposed to be congenial to vegetation 
 in a much superior degree. The winters are short- 
 er, and not always marked with such rigour as in the 
 latter ; the duration of the frost is always occompa- 
 nied with a fine clear sky, and a dry atmosphere ; the 
 spring opens, and the resumption of agricultural la- 
 bour takes place from six weeks to two months earli- 
 
224 LIFE OF 
 
 er than what it does in the neighbourhood of Quebec. 
 The summer heats rarely prevail to excess, and the 
 autumns are usually very friendly to the harvests, and 
 favourable for securing all the late crops. In fact, 
 upon so good a soil, and under such a climate, indus- 
 try and an increase of population are only wanting to 
 render this colony flourishing and happy/' 
 
OLIVER H. PERRV. '22l 
 
 CHAPTER VJ. 
 
 The licioryofthe \Oth September, occasions a general rejoiciiig 
 throughout the Union — the illumination at Philadelphia-^ 
 Perry promoted to the rank of Captain in the navy— He pro- 
 ceeds fi'om Buffalo to Albany-^tribute of respect shewn to him 
 at that place— proceeds thence to Newport, where he is receiV' 
 ed with admiration — a gold medal presented to him by order of 
 Congress — Perry leaves Newport for Washington — public 
 dinner given him in New-York — also at the seat of govern-' 
 ment — a most splendid entertainment given in honour of him 
 on his return, at Baltimore — is assigned to command on the 
 Newport station — public dinner given in honour of him at Bos* 
 ton — assists a Sivedish brig at Newport — visits the eastern coast 
 — after the capture of Washington, Perry repaired thither-^ 
 commanded a battery to annoy the enemy in going down the 
 river — is at Baltimore at the attack upon that place— -is ap- 
 pointed to superintend the equipment of the Java. 
 
 We have now done with the north-western fron- 
 tier, having reviewed the events of the war in that 
 quarter, which preceded and followed the memora- 
 ble victory upon lake Erie; given an ample and mi- 
 nute account of that victory ; noticed its consequen- 
 ces upon the north-western border, and concluded 
 with a topographical view of the interior waters 
 which were the scene of the glory of our hero, and 
 such portions of the country bordering upon them, as 
 
226 LIFE OF 
 
 were in a more eminent degree, relieved from the 
 evils of war, and the horrors of Indian outrage. We 
 have examined, and, perhaps, with an amplitude 
 which some may consider unnecessary, the conse- 
 quences of the victory of the 10th Septemher, and 
 the effect which it had upon the pubhc mind, in that 
 section of the country ; but before resuming the nar» 
 ration of the remaining events in the hfe of Perry, it 
 may perhaps, be proper to alUide to the national ef- 
 fect of this victory. 
 
 We shall not be thought extravagant, it is believ- 
 ed, in saying, that no national event since the cap- 
 ture of Cornwallis, in 1781, diffused such universal 
 joy throughout the country, as the victory upon lake 
 Erie. This was not more owing to the importance 
 of the event, than to the state of the public mind at 
 the time it occurred. A strange fatality seemed to 
 have attended the operation of our arms upon that 
 frontier, which baffled all the exertions of the gov- 
 ernment ; and for a period of fifteen months, the 
 public had witnessed a series of disappointments and 
 disasters, almost unexampled in the history of our 
 country. And these adverse occurrences were the 
 more afflicting, from their not having been foreseen, 
 or scarcely thouglit within the compass of events, 
 which fairly belong to the vicissitudes of war. 
 
 Canada was first invaded from the north-western 
 frontier, and from the limited means of the enemy, 
 it was then supposed that all the north-western dis- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRV. 22? 
 
 tricts, if not the whole of the Upper Province, would 
 have fallen an easy conquest to our arms. But in- 
 stead of this, the pubHc had the mortification to wit- 
 ness the surrender, without an effort, of this invading 
 arniy, followed by a long train of disasters, and to 
 behold a large section of our own territory wrested 
 fronn the Republic, and exposed to the insolence and 
 barbarity of a savage foe. 
 
 These disastrous events, which cast a gloom over 
 the Rorth-wcstern border, excited a deep solicitude 
 throughout the Union. Nothing but the demon of 
 faction, could have benumbed the sympathies of our 
 citizens in any part of the Union, for their brethren 
 on this devoted frontier. The British openly declar- 
 ed their designs of severing, forever, from the Re- 
 public, that interesting portion of our territory which 
 had fallen into their hands 5 and many of our en- 
 lightened citizens who anticipated with pleasure, 
 the progress and extension of new settlements, in 
 the national domains of the west, beheld with deep 
 concern, a state of things calculated to arrest, if not 
 permanently to destroy these cheering prospects. 
 Not only the sentiments of patriotism, but the bonds 
 of friendship, and the ties of consanguinity, were cal- 
 culated to awaken the national sensibility and soli- 
 citude. From the diffusive spirit of emigration 
 which has long prevailed among us, almost every 
 town in the Atlantic states, has contributed towards 
 the rapidly increasing populationof the western sec- 
 
228 LIFE OF 
 
 tion of the United States, and consequently the in- I 
 habitants of that portion of our country, have nume- 
 rous friends and relatives in the Atlantic states. 
 
 From these, and other circumstances, the disasters 
 upon the north-western frontier, which spread a 
 gloom through the western country, produced a seri- 
 ous effect throughout the Union. They awakened 
 the sympathies, aroused the patriotism, and alarmed 
 the apprehensions of all good citizens. The patri- 
 ot, who had anticipated with satisfaction, the success 
 of our arms, could not cast his eyes to the west and 
 behold the long succession of disasters which had vis- 
 ited that border, and the consequences attendant up- 
 on them, without mortification and affliction, and 
 scarcely without despondency. Under such circum- 
 stances as these, some great national event w^as want- 
 ed to revive the public spirit, to restore the national 
 confidence, encourage patriotism, confirm the wa- 
 vering, dispel the fears of the despondent, support 
 the national credit, and strengthen the arm of the 
 government. It was at this critical conjuncture, that 
 the victory upon lake Erie occurred. No wonder it 
 electrified the country with joy, and enlivened the 
 countenance of every patriotic citizen. No wonder 
 the hero of this victory was hailed as the deliverer of 
 the frontier — the "conqueror of the conquerors of 
 Europe," and as the brightest star in the resplend- 
 ant galaxy of the American naval heroes. No won- 
 der this victory communicated a ray of joy to every 
 
OLIVER H. TERRY. 259 
 
 American bosom 5 and occasioned throughout the 
 country, every visible testimonial of public rejoicing. 
 In all our principal cities, illuminations took place, ac- 
 companied with other demonstrations of joy, admira- 
 tion and gratitude. All felt the animating influence 
 of a victory, so splendid in its character, and so im- 
 portant in its consequences. All participated 
 in the general joy. — The merchant laid aside his ledg^ 
 er, the mechanic the implements of his trade, the 
 man of business suspended his exertions, the labourer 
 bis toil, and the speculator forgot, for a moment, his 
 golden dreams ; all uniting in one common testimony 
 of joy and gratitude. And the fair, justly appreciating 
 the occasion, and forgetting the allurements of other 
 objects, and the blandishments of personal admiration, 
 contributed to enliven the general scene of rejoicing. 
 The illumination in Philadelphia, is deserving of 
 particular notice. It took place on the evening of the 
 24th September. On no previous occasion, have 
 the citizens of this populous and patriotic city, dis- 
 played so much zealj unanimity and spirit, in the 
 manifestation of their joy and gratitude, for any na- 
 tional event. As the victory was considered as un- 
 exampled in the annals of our country, so the splen- 
 dour of the celebration was unequalled. The admi- 
 ration of the splendid achievement, and of the hero 
 of it, was universal. All classes was anxious to par- 
 ticipate in the general joy, and to unite in an ex- 
 pression of the sense they felt of the honour, which 
 20 
 
230 LIFE OF 
 
 this unequalled victory over a superior force, had 
 conferred on the national character. All were eager 
 to applaud the pre-eminent skill and valour by which 
 it had been won. The name of Perry, appropriate- 
 ly emblazoned in letters of fire, was conspicuously 
 displayed, reminding the beholder of that cool intre- 
 pidity and heroic decision, which, after having fought 
 the Lawrence to a wreck and slaughter-house, car- 
 ried him on board the Niagara ; when, seizing as if 
 by inspiration, the moment which was to decide the 
 fate of the action, he pierced the hostile Hne ; and, 
 wrapped in a destructive blaze, compelled the British 
 hero to surrender the entire squadron under his com- 
 mand, to superior skill and valour; affording the most 
 striking evidence of the justness of the prediction of 
 the great Nelson, who, when speaking of the exploits 
 of our squadron in the Mediterranean, observed that 
 in these achievements of the infant navy of the Uni- 
 ted States, he beheld the future decline of the mari^ 
 time ascendency of England. 
 
 Among other exhibitions of taste and style, were 
 two transparent portraits of Washington, the father 
 of his country, and the founder of her naval power ; 
 which gave additional interest and lustre to the 
 scene. 
 
 Soon after the victory of the 10th of September, 
 Perry was promoted to the rank of Captain in the I 
 navy of the United States. 
 
 After the termination of (he operations of the war 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. -231 
 
 oii the north-western frontier, Perry, in company 
 with General Harrison, arrived at Buffalo, on the 
 24th October, from whence he proceeded to Albany, 
 v.here he arrived on the 8th November. Here he 
 was received with every demonstration of respect 
 and admiration. The Corporation and citizens uni- 
 ted in paying a tribute of respect to the hero of Erie, 
 for his ardent patriotism, and distinguished services. 
 At 10 o'clock, A. M. the Common Council, and a 
 large concourse of citizens, assembled, and proceed* 
 ed on horseback, to Dow's tavern, on the Schenecta- 
 dy road, where they received and escorted Commo- 
 dore Perry into the city. On arriving in the western 
 precincts of the city, a federal salute was iired, and 
 the military, which had assembled for the purpose, 
 formed in front, and proceeded with the escort to the 
 capital, when, the military opening, the procession 
 entered the hall, where the freedom of the city, in a 
 gold case, and a sword which had been voted him by 
 the Common Council, were presented to the gallant 
 Commodore. The procession was then formed 
 again, and proceeded to the Commodore's quarters, 
 during which time the bells were rung, and another 
 salute Ured. 
 
 From Albany, Perry proceeded to his residence 
 in Newport, Rhode-Island, where he was received 
 with great respect, and the most cordial and friendly 
 welcome. His friends and fellow-citizens, who had 
 been acquainted with the r.mn, were filled with rap» 
 
232 LIFE OF 
 
 tuie, on beholding the hero. All were anxious lu 
 behold their fellow-citizen, who, like the hero of 
 Rome, in the proudest days of her history, had re- 
 rctured from the toils of war, and the vanquishing of 
 the foes of his country, surrounded with a blaze of 
 glory, and crowned with the laurels of immortality. 
 He was accompanied on his arrival here, by his 
 brother, and the four valiant tars who rowed the 
 boat which conveyed him from the Lawrence to the 
 Niagara, and who, as their brave Commodore was 
 standing up in the open boat, (at which two broad- 
 sides had been directed,) exposed to a shower of 
 musketry, pulled him down by the skirt of his 
 coat. 
 
 In noticing the testimonials of respect and admira- 
 tion which Perry received, we must not pass over 
 that which came directly and officially from the rep- 
 resentatives of the people. Soon after the com- 
 mencement of the session which followed the victo- 
 ry upon lake Erie, Congress adopted resolutions, ten- 
 dering their thanks to Captain Perry, and through 
 him, lO the officers, seamen and marines, attached 
 to the squadron under his command, for the deci- 
 cive and glorious victory on lake L.ric, over a Bri(=. 
 ish squadron of superior force .3 and requesting the 
 President io cause a gold medal to be struck, em- 
 blematical of the action between the tv/o squadrons, 
 Mid. presented to Captain Perry in such manner as 
 might be most honourable to bim. In the same res- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. ^33 
 
 olutions, the President was requested to present a 
 gold medal to Captain Jesse D. Elliot, and a silver 
 one, with suitable emblems and devices, to each of 
 the commissioned officers, either of the navy or ar- 
 my, serving on board, and a sword to each of the mid- 
 shipmen and sailing masters who so nobly distinguish- 
 ed themselves on that memorable day. 
 
 Early in January, (1814,) Perry left Newport for 
 the seat of government, and arrived in New- York, 
 where, on the 11th, a splendid entertainment was 
 given to him in Tammany Hall. On this occasion 
 Perry gave a toast, which, considering the alarming 
 spirit of faction, which unfortunately existed in one 
 section of the country, is an honourable evidence of 
 his principles and patriotism — It was " The Unionofthv 
 States,^^ — Perry arrived at Washington previously to 
 the 25th, on which day a splendid entertainment in 
 honour of him, was provided in that city. Several 
 of the high officers of the government, and many of 
 the members of Congress, with a great number of the 
 most distinguished citizens, were present on the oc- 
 casion. 
 
 Perry having remained a few days in the capital, 
 left there to return to Newport. He arrived in Bal- 
 timore on the 31st of January, and continued there 
 the two succeeding days. The attentions and hon- 
 ours which were bestowed upon him in this patriot-' 
 ic city, are deserving of a particular detail* 
 
 '20 
 
234 LIFE OF 
 
 ' On the evening of the 31st, he visited the circus, 
 and that spacious building could not contain the vast 
 crowd which collected to behold the hero of the 
 Jakes. The house was filled before the entertaiment 
 began, and when Perry entered, he was received 
 with deep, loud, and continued acclamation. Oa 
 (he following day, he was honoured with an enter- 
 tainment, which, for bounteous profusion, elegance 
 of style, judicious arrangements, and brilliancy and 
 appropriateness of decorations, surpassed, it is be- 
 lieved, any thing which has occurred in this country. 
 The committee of arrangements consisted of some 
 of the most distinguished citizens, whose united zeal 
 and perseverance, aided by the taste and exertions 
 of their fellow-citizens, produced a result which sur- 
 prised and gratified all. The great room at Barney's 
 -' Fountain Inn," was selected for the occasion. At 
 the head of the room was a large transparent paint- 
 Hig, reaching almost across the hall, representing the 
 naval action upon lake Erie. The accomplished 
 artist had happily seized that moment when Commo- 
 dore Perry, " at forty-five minutes past two, having 
 thrown out the signal for close action^ bore up in the 
 Niagara and passed ahead of their two ships and a 
 brig, giving a raking fire to them from the starboard 
 guns, and to a large schooner and sloop from the lar- 
 board side, at half pistol shot distance," decided the 
 hite. of the action. The painting was executed in 
 i^e style, and produced tlie most interesting and en- 
 
OLIVER H. fERRY. 235 
 
 livening effect. At the head of the table was the 
 representation of the stern of a ship, labelled " Niag- 
 ara," on which, as on the quarter deck, were placed 
 the President of the day, Edward Johnson, Esq., with 
 the hero of Erie, and Commodores Barney and Lewis, 
 and other officers of the navy, with several citizens. 
 In front of them was raised, having the appearance 
 of a great column, a bundle of eighteen arrows, rep- 
 resenting the states of the Union, braced together by 
 massive bands, on which were inscribed the names 
 of Hull, Jones, Decatur, Bainbridge, Lawrence, 
 Ludlow, Burrows, Allen, and Perry, in large letters 
 of gold. A flag was suspended from a top-gallant 
 mast and yard, which rose from the centre of the 
 bundle of arrows, with an inscription, *' we have met 
 the enemy and they are oursP The pedestal was or- 
 namented with naval emblems and wreaths, and the 
 American Eagle was suspended over the whole, 
 bearing in his beak a scroll, with the motto, " a nU'- 
 iioii^s gratitude is the hero'' s best rewarJ," which was 
 so contrived and managed that, with outstretched 
 wings, it occasionally passed over the company. — 
 The American " striped bunting," bespangled with 
 stars, was suspended as curtains at the windows, and 
 in whatever direction the eye turned, it fell on some 
 object calculated to delight the sense, to awaken na- 
 tional pride, and gratify the patriotic enthusiasm 
 which the occasion had excited. Amcng the toasts 
 was the following : " The iO\h of Septembr, 1813-^ 
 
236 LIFE OF 
 
 rendered memorable in the annals otour country by 
 the decisive and glorious victory on lake Erie." 
 When this was announced, the music which usually 
 followed, was silent, and a pause ensued that was bro- 
 ken by the beat of a drum from behind the transpar- 
 ency, which directed the eyes of all to that quarter, 
 when suddenly, down came the British flag from the 
 enemy's ship in the fore ground of the picture, and 
 instantly the full band struck up the national salute of 
 Yankee Doodle, and immediately the British flag was 
 hoisted under the American ensign. This, not hav- 
 ing been understood but by few of the company, ex- 
 cited a surprise and interest truly indescribable.* 
 
 From Baltimore Perry returned to Newport, hav- 
 ing at that time a command on that station. He con- 
 tinued in this command during the spring and sum- 
 mer following ; but the situation was not calculated 
 to add to the reputation of the hero of the lakes ; and 
 there being little occasion for the employment of his 
 personal services, this was in a great measure a peri- 
 od of repose. 
 
 The brave, the active, and the enterprising are not 
 always to be employed. And when the service with 
 which a man is entrusted, is finished, then is the 
 proper season for him to cease from his labours. If 
 ever an individual perfectly finished the work confid- 
 ed to his care, it was Perry in his command upon lake 
 
 * Niles' Ke£ister, 5tb vol. page 398. 
 
t;>LlVEll H. PERRY. 237 
 
 Erie. Having filled the continent with the glory of 
 his achievements, and rendered his fame co-exten- 
 sive with the knowledge of his country, it was just 
 that these events should be followed by a period of 
 repose, and that he should be permitted to enjoy in 
 tranquility the fruits of his services and valour — the 
 admiration and gratitude of his country. These, 
 f' the hero's best reward," few individuals have deser- 
 ved or enjoyed to a greater extent than Perry. 
 
 Among the public testimonials of esteem and grat- 
 itude which he received during this interval, an en- 
 tertainment given in honour of him at Boston, on the 
 10th of May, is deserving of particular notice. 
 
 This celebrated town which, during the American 
 revolution, acted so distinguished and honourable a 
 part, was, during the late war, distinguished for a very 
 different course of conduct. At the former period, 
 it was the focus and the original source of the nation- 
 al spirit — that spirit which is roused into action by a 
 sense of wrongs, and the love of liberty — which gave 
 birth to our Independence, converted citizens into 
 soldiers, sustained the country during an arduous and 
 unequalled contest of eight years, and finally crown- 
 ed its efforts with success. But during the latter pe- 
 ]iod, this spirit seems to have fled from this metrop- 
 olis of New-England ; and Boston, instead of being 
 (he focus of patriotism, to have unfortunately become 
 the centre of faction. Where the voice of Adams 
 and Hancock was once heard in defence of the rights 
 
238 LIFE OF 
 
 of their injured country, and to awaken a spirit of re- 
 sistance to lawless power, had succeeded the lan- 
 guage, " that it was unbecoming a moral and reli- 
 gious people to rejoice at the success of the national 
 arms, in an unjust and ruinous war.* But these sen- 
 timents, so derogatory to the high character which 
 this town had long sustained, were, it is believed? 
 confined to a few, and even with these, they ought, 
 perhaps, to be regarded as the effusions of that mo- 
 mentary infatuation which the violence of party spir- 
 it often produces. That this was the case, and tha^ 
 the citizens of this town generally, felt a deep sohci- 
 citude for the prosperity of the country, and for the 
 success and honour of the national arms, is evinced 
 by the fact which is here noticed — the splendid en- 
 tertainment given in honour of Com. Perry, and 
 as a testimony of admiration and gratitude for the 
 brilliant victory upon lake Erie. Yet, considering 
 the infatuation of certain influential individuals, and 
 the spirit of opposition to the war, which they had 
 excited and maintained, the honour conferred upon 
 Commodore Perry at Boston, cannot but be regard- 
 ed as a striking evidence of the universal admiration, 
 joy and gratitude, which the victory of the 10th of 
 September occasioned. Those who regarded the 
 war as unjust as well as inexpedient, could not with- 
 
 *These sentiments if not precisely the I ingnage, were ron- 
 tainetl in a lesolulipn introdnced into (be Senale of M^ssacb'r- 
 sett$< 
 
OLIVER B. PERRY* 93S 
 
 hold their admiration of the distinguished braverj 
 and skill displayed in its prosecution. At any rate 
 they could not withhold it from Perry. 
 
 Among the toasts drank on this occasion was the 
 following :—" The 10th of September, 1813— the 
 day on which a splendid column was added in the na- 
 val temple of our country — on its entablature is in- 
 scribed, " we have met the eneiny and they are ours»^^ 
 
 Subsequently to this, Perry received several pie» 
 ces of plate voted him by the people of Boston. 
 The large pieces were inscribed, on one side : " Sep- 
 tember 10th, 1813, signalized our first triumph in 
 squadron : a very superior British force on lake 
 Erie was entirely subdued by Commodore O. H. 
 Perry ; whose gallantry in action is equalled only by 
 his humanity in victory." On the other side, " Pre- 
 sented in honour of the victor, by the citizens of 
 Boston." The small pieces were inscribed on one 
 side, *' Commodare O. H. Perry conquered the 
 enemy on lake Erie, September 10th, 1013 ;" and 
 on the other, " Presented by the citizens of Boston." 
 These testimonials of respect and admiration of the 
 achievements of Perry, were not more honourable 
 to him, than to the citizens who bestowed them, as 
 they were calculated to do away the injurious im- 
 putations to which the intemperate zeal of a few 
 partizans, had exposed their fellow citizens. 
 
 On the 30th of May, a Swedish brig was chased 
 into the east passage at Newport, and run ashore, by 
 
240 LIFE OF 
 
 the boats of a British vessel of war. Perry, on re- 
 ceiving this information, immediately ordered a de- 
 tachment of seamen, with a six pounder, to the as- 
 sistance of the brig. They were also accompanied 
 by a company of militia. The next morning, the 
 British brig Nimrod stood close in shore, drove the 
 people outof the Swedish vessel, under the cover of 
 her guns, and succeeded in boarding and setting her 
 on fire. The militia, a considerable number of which 
 bad collected, with two 12 pounders, advancing, and 
 two gun boats at the same time making thejr appear- 
 ance, the enemy precipitately left their anchorage 
 and stood out to sea. Fortunately the arrival of 
 the militia and the gun boats, was in season to save 
 the brig, which, the fire having been extinguished, 
 was got off, and most of her cargo saved. 
 
 During this summer, (1814,) the eastern coast of 
 the United States was greatly harrassed by the ene- 
 my. They destroyed a considerable proportion of 
 the coasting craft which ventured to sea, and entered 
 Bome of the out ports, and committed depredations 
 and outrages upon the maritime villages. In conse- 
 quence of this predatory warfare of the enemy, Perry 
 proceeded to the eastward. He was at Wiscassett, 
 the latter part of June, when the enemy made an at- 
 tempt upon that place, and by his active exertions and 
 the alacrity with which the inhabitants collected on 
 the occasion, he succeeded in repelling them. The 
 
OLIVKjR H. PERRiT. 241 
 
 enemy made several unsuccessful attacks upon other 
 places. 
 
 Under date of the 2 1st of June, Commodore Per- 
 ry received a communication signed by sundry re- 
 spectable inhabitants of the town of Wareham, Mas- 
 sachusetts, containing a statement of the landing and 
 depredations of the British at that place. It appears 
 from this statement, that six barges, one of them 
 having a white flag hoisted, were seen approaching 
 the village, upon which a flag of truce was also hoist- 
 ed upon the wharf. When the barges arrived, the 
 commanding officer agreed that if he was not fired 
 on by the inhabitants, all private property should be 
 held inviolable, but that he should destroy what pub- 
 lic property could be found. But instead of this, 
 although there was no pretence that they were at- 
 tacked or fired upon by the inhabitants, having land- 
 ed a part of their men, they immediately proceeded 
 to destroy private property. They set fire to a vessel 
 on the stocks, to five others at anchor, and to a cot' 
 ton factory. On being reminded of (heir engage- 
 ments, that they had landed under the sacred char= 
 acter of a flag of truce, and deceived the inhabitants 
 by false promises, the only answer they returned 
 was a threat to set fire to the village, and put the in- 
 habitants to the sword, if they made any resistance^ 
 or even attempted to extinguish the fires. On re> 
 turning to their barges, they seized twelve of the cit- 
 izens, and took them on board, declaring, that if they 
 
 n 
 
242 LIFE or 
 
 were fired upon by the inhabitants, they would put 
 them to death. Having made the necessary arrange- 
 ments for leaving the harbour, the flag of truce was 
 again hoisted, and the perpetrators of these disgrace- 
 ful outrages, returned under the same cover and 
 protection they entered. The men were landed 
 about three miles below the village. 
 
 The communication ofthese transactions was made 
 to Commodore Perry, for the purpose of being trans- 
 mitted to the Secretary of the Navy, which he accor- 
 dingly did. 
 
 The sudden incursion of the enemy, and capture 
 ofthe city of Washington, on the 24th of August, in- 
 duced Commodore Perry, who always stood in rea- 
 diness to " meet the enemy," wherever they might 
 appear, to repair thither. The action at Bladens- 
 burgh, which took place at about 1 o'clock, P. M. 
 on the 24th, having resulted in the retreat of the 
 American troops, the enemy advanced to the capi- 
 tal, without experiencing further opposition. In this 
 unfortunate action, the American force consisted of 
 about five thousand men, all of whom, with the ex- 
 ception of three hundred and fifty regulars, and Com- 
 modore Barney's command, were militia, hastily 
 collected, many of them having arrived on the ground 
 after the enemy were in sight. The enemy's force 
 was estimated at more than 5,000, consisting of regu- 
 lars, marines and seamen. That a contest under such 
 circumstances as these, should have resulted unfa- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY, 243 
 
 vourably to the Americans, cannot be a matter of 
 surprise ; yet it was to have been expected that they 
 would have made a more firm resistance than they 
 did, and that they would have continued to annoy and 
 harrass the enemy, who, with so inconsiderable a 
 force, had penetrated so far into the country, and 
 from the intense heat, and the distance they had march- 
 ed, must have been greatly fatigued and exhausted. 
 The brave Commodore Barney, the hero of two 
 wars, with his patriotic band of voluateers, made a 
 gallant stand, and for some time resisted with the 
 most destructive effect, the march of the enemy. 
 The Commodore was wounded and taken prisoner. 
 History will record, that on this day, (the 24th Au- 
 gust 1814,) a body of British troops, under the com- 
 mand of General Ross, having possessed themselves 
 of the city of Washington, with the true spirit of Van- 
 dalism, set fire to, and destroyed the Capital, the 
 President's house, and the public offices ; edifices, 
 no way connected with the means of war, but which 
 were monuments of the arts, and which have been 
 respected by all civilized nations, when the fortune 
 of war hath placed them in the power of an enemy. 
 Several private buildings were also destroyed, and 
 many of the citizens mal-treated. The navy yard 
 was destroyed by our own officers, after learning that 
 the enemy was in possession of the city. On the 
 evening of the 25th, the enemy retreated precipi^ 
 
.;*'i'i LITR OF 
 
 lately from the city, leaving most of their killed and 
 wounded behind. 
 
 Soon after these events, several of our niost dis- 
 linguished naval officers, among whonn were Rogers, 
 Porter and Perry, arrived in Washington. After the 
 retreat from Washington, a part of the naval force 
 of the enemy went up the Potomac, as far as Alexan- 
 dria, and threatened the destruction of that town, 
 the abandonment and destruction effort W^arburton, 
 having removed all obstructions to their passage up 
 the river. Considering the town as defenceless, and 
 to preserve it from destruction, the inhabitants were 
 induced to agree to the most disgraceful capitulation. 
 All naval and ordnance stores, both public and pri- 
 vate, were to be delivered to the enemy, together 
 with all the shipping in the harbour, including the 
 vessels wliich had been sunk, which the inhabitants 
 were to raise, and all merchandize, of every descrip- 
 tion, including what had been removed since the 1 9th 
 of Aup[;iist, wiien the squadron passed the Kettle Bot- 
 toms. Refreshments of every description were to 
 be supplied the ships, and paid for at the market 
 price, by bills on the British government. 
 
 These extraordinary articles, remind us very mucli 
 of the treaty of peace, which was concluded between 
 diaries the XII. of Sweden, and Augustus, King of 
 Poland, and Elector of Saxony. Charles having dis- 
 possessed Augustus of his Kingdom, and caused Stan- 
 Tt^^a'j?. to be elected, crowned and acknov/ledged^ 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 245 
 
 Augustus, betrayed and abandoned by his own sub- 
 jects, fearing the loss of his hereditary dominions, 
 and apprehending greater evils from his powerful 
 and dangerous ally, Peter of Muscovy, than from his 
 implacable enemy and conqueror, was induced to 
 sue for peace. The terms of the conqueror were, 
 that Augustus should renounce all pretensions to the 
 kingdom of Poland, acknowledge Stanislaus, deliv- 
 er up Patkul, the Czar's embassador, Sic. But in 
 addition to these severe and humiliating terms, he 
 insisted that Augustus should write a letter with his 
 own hand, to his rival, congratulating him on his ac- 
 cession to the throne, which he himself had just beea 
 compelled to abandon. 
 
 After the inhabitants of Alexandria had been for- 
 ced to agree to permit the enemy to take, or rather 
 plunder every thing they had, but their houses and fur- 
 niture, it must liave been not a little humiliating, that 
 they should have been compelled to furnish supplies, 
 and feed this enemy. 
 
 Whilst the enemy were employed at Alexandria, 
 in securing their plunder, preparations were made to 
 annoy them on their going down the river. Commo- . 
 dore Rogers proceeded down the Potomac, on the 
 3d September, with three small fire vessels, under 
 the protection of four barge s or cutters, manned with 
 about sixty seamen, armed with muskets, destined 
 against two of the enemy's frigates, and and a bomb 
 ship, which lay about two and a half miles below Al- 
 
246 
 
 LIFE OF 
 
 exandria. From the failure of the wind, this enter- 
 prize did not succeed. On the next day, Commo- 
 dore Rogers had another fire vessel prepared, with a 
 view to destroy a bomb ship of the enemy, but this 
 attempt proved equally unsuccessful. Captain Por- 
 ter erected a lemporary battery at the White House, 
 on the west bajik of the Potomac, to attempt the 
 annoyance and destruction of the enemy's vessels as 
 they proceeded down the river. Porter was aided 
 by a considerable body of militia, and several officers, 
 as volunteers. On the 4th and 5th, the enemy kept 
 up a constant fire upon the battery, and at night land- 
 ed, with the intention of spiking the guns, but were 
 repulsed. On the 6th, as the enemy's force moved 
 down the river, a severe and well directed fire of hot 
 shot was kept up ])y the battery, which was warmly 
 returned by the enemy. After sustaining the contest 
 for more than one hour, and the whole force of the 
 anemy being concentrated to bear upon him, the gal» 
 lant Porter, with his brave volunteers, retired, no|^ 
 being willing to make a useless sacrifice. Porter's 
 battery annoyed the enemy considerably, but could 
 not prevent their getting oifwith their plunder. The 
 gallant party sustained a loss of several killed and 
 wounded. Commodore Perry commanded a battery 
 at Indian-Head, below that at the White House. — 
 The cannon were of too small a calibre to make 
 much impression on the enemy as they descended 
 the river. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 247 
 
 One eighteen pounder, which arrived only thirty 
 minutes before the firing comnnenced, and was badly 
 supplied with ammunition, was the only gun that 
 could be used with much effect. In addition to the 
 battery, several field pieces kept up a very spirited 
 fire ; but they were also of too small a calibre to pro- 
 duce a very important effect. The ammunition of 
 the eighteen pounder, and several of the sixes, being 
 expended, and the fire of the enemy from two frigates, 
 two sloops, and a number of other small vessels, 
 having become very heavy, it was thought advisable 
 to leave the battery, and retire a short distance in 
 the rear, which was done in good order, after hav- 
 ing sustained the enemy's fire for more than an hour. 
 The advantageous position occupied by Perry, pre- 
 vented the enemy from doing his party much injury ; 
 none were killed, and only one man wounded. 
 
 The enemy having gone down the river, and being 
 out of the reach of all annoyance, Rogers and Per- 
 ry immediately repaired to Baltimore, it being ex- 
 pected that the enemy would shortly visit that 
 place. 
 
 On the morning of the 11 th of September, the en- 
 emy's fleet, consisting of forty or fifty vessels, ap- 
 peared off the mouth of the Patapsco river. Some 
 of the vessels entered the river, and others proceed- 
 ed to North-Point, and the following night commen- 
 ced the debarkation of their troops, which was com- 
 pleted early the next morniDg, In the mean time, 
 
^48 LIFE OP 
 
 the frigates which had been previously lightened, 
 the bomb-ketches and small vessels approached, and 
 arranged themselves in line of battle, to cannonade 
 the fort and town. The ships of the line lay off 
 North-Point to cover and protect the whole force. 
 The enemy landed about 9,000 men, consisting of 
 5,000 soldiers, under Major General Ross, and about 
 4,000 marines and seamen, commanded by the fa- 
 mous Admiral Cockburn. They advanced about 
 four miles without any opposition, where they were 
 met by a force of 3,200 men, consisting of General 
 Strieker's brigade, and several companies of volun- 
 teers, most of which were from Pennsylvania. The 
 rest of the troops which had been collected for the 
 defence of the place, were stationed in the rear, and 
 at the various defences. As the enemy advanced, 
 about two o'clock, P. M. the artillery opened a de» 
 structive fire upon them, which was returned from 
 two nine pounders, and the action soon became 
 general along the front line, consisting of the oth and 
 27th regiments. A warm and destructive fire was 
 kept up by these two regiments and the artillery^ 
 for about an hour, when, on the enemy's attempting 
 to turn their flank, they reluctantly retired, falling 
 back towards the city. Not more than 1,700 of the 
 American troops, were actually engaged in this ac- 
 tion ; but they behaved with great gallantry, and 
 fired with remarkable steadiness and effect,, taking 
 deliberate aij^n, which mowed down the ranks of the 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 249 
 
 enemy with great carnage. The British advanced 
 alowly, and the next day approached within two miles 
 of the American entrenchments. Measures were 
 taken to intercept them, and punish their temerity, 
 but before the plans could be put in execution, the 
 British suspecting what was going on, decamped sud- 
 denly in the night, and embarked with such precipi- 
 tation, that although they were closely pursued, a 
 few prisoners only were taken. 
 
 The attack upon fort M'Henry was terribly grand 
 and magnificent. Fort M'Henry is situated about 
 two miles from the city. On the 12th, the enemy's 
 vessels were stationed in front of the works, in form 
 of a great semi-circle, but at a respectful distance, 
 being oat of the reach of the guns. The next morn- 
 ing, six bombs and several rocket vessels, commen- 
 ced an attack upon the fort, (keeping, however, at a 
 respectful distance,) which was continued until 3 o'- 
 clock in the afternoon, when the enemy approached 
 near the works, which gave the garrison an apportu- 
 nity of trying the efficacy of their batteries. A most 
 tremendous fire was opened upon them, which, in a 
 {ew moments, occasioned them to slip their cables 
 and wear off. The following night, several bomb 
 and rocket vessels, and a number of barges, manned 
 with 1,200 picked men, undercover of the darkness, 
 passed fort M'Henry, and proceeded up the Pataps- 
 co, to assail the fort and town in the rear. They 
 gave three cheers, and began to throw their missiles, 
 
^50 LIFE OF 
 
 bombs, shells, &c. But their cheering was quickly 
 turned to groaning, and cries of distress from the 
 wounded and the drowning. The forts M'Henry, 
 Covington, the the Lazaretto, the city battery, and 
 the barges, opened the most tremendous and destruc- 
 tive fire upon them. The scene was awfully grand 
 and sublime. Such a sheet of fire, and such a tre- 
 mendous cannonading, had never before been wit- 
 nessed. The heavens appeared to be lighted with 
 flame, and all to be one continued explosion, for half 
 an hour. Rogers' crew at fort Covington, and Bar- 
 ney's flotilla-men at the city battery, maintained the 
 high reputation which they had previously acquired. 
 Amidst this scene of destruction, the enemy, batter- 
 ed and crippled, retired with precipitation, the dark- 
 ness of the night and their ceasing to fire, which was 
 the only guide our people had, prevented their anni- 
 hilation. The enemy paid dearly for his temerity in 
 this affair. Their loss must have been very severe. 
 Two of their barges were found sunk, with a number 
 of dead in them. The loss sustained by the garri- 
 sons was trifling, only four killed and twenty woun- 
 ded. 
 
 Never were an expedition and the hopes of mili- 
 tary achievement and fame, more completely de- 
 feated. The British Admiral had calculated on tak- 
 ing the fort in two hours, and spoke of its surrender 
 as a matter of course. When that was dono, and the 
 shipping destroyed, he observed, " he would talk 
 
 m 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 2al 
 
 about terms for the city." General Ross, who had 
 just returned from the spoils of Washington, who had 
 declared his intention of destroying every town upon 
 our sea board, and of fixing his winter quarters at 
 Baltimore ; who " did not care if it rained militia" — 
 the redoubtable General Ross, who commenced his 
 career of vandal warfare so successfully ; who had 
 such confidence in his own strength, and such con- 
 tempt for his enemies, fell early in the action. His 
 fall was probably the immediate cause of the retreat 
 of the enemy.* The sun of his military glory, which 
 at Washington he supposed, shone with full meridi- 
 an splendour, at Baltimore, and after the lapse of a 
 a few days only, set in darkness* 
 
 The disastrous result of this attack upon Baltimore 
 by a formidable land and naval force, flushed with 
 victory, and confident of success, adds another to the 
 many evidences which the history of human affairs 
 has furnished, that it does not belong to man to boast 
 of his strength or achievements, and much less to in- 
 dulge in sentiments o( contempt for others. The to- 
 tal loss of the enemy was supposed to have been 7 or 
 800 men — that of the Americans was only 20 killed, 
 and about 140 wounded, prisoners and missing. 
 
 Among the objects which the enemy calculated 
 would signalize their success at Baltimore, was the 
 destruction of the Java, which was then building at 
 that place. It had been launched in August, prece- 
 
 *Nites' Register, vo!. 7, page 24. 
 
 I- 
 
UM ■ LIFE OF 
 
 ding. It is supposed that the name of this frigate w&b 
 not very agreeable to the British, as some how or 
 other, it reminded them of a British frigate of the 
 same name, which was captured and sunk by Com- 
 modore Bainbridge. 
 
 The Java was equipped and fitted for service un- 
 der the direction and superintendance of Commodore 
 Perry, who was designated for that purpose. He, 
 however, still continued to command on the New- 
 port station, and remained a considerable propor- 
 tion of his time, with his family and friends in that 
 interesting town. In January following, be receiv- 
 ed an honourable and gratifying testimony of the re- 
 spect and admiration of his fellow-citizens of New- 
 port. It was the presentation of an elegant silver 
 vase, of the largest size, surmounted by an Eagle, 
 and embellished with appropriate emblematic figures 
 aod inscriptions. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 253 
 
 CHAPTER VIL 
 
 The Java, is brought to Newport — Perry asshts in rescuing ship- 
 jvrecked seamen — sails in the Jam for the Mediterranean— dif- 
 ference between the United States andthe Regency of Algiitrs — 
 hostile proceedings of the latter in 1^12— United States declare 
 war in 1315— Decatur* s squadron arrived at Gibraltar in 
 May, same year — capture of an Algerine frigate and brig-^ 
 a negociation follows — a treaty concluded — the squadron pro- 
 ceeds to Tunis—thence to Tripoli — the ratified copy of the 
 treaty carried out by the Java — was at first rejected by the 
 Dey, who became greatly enraged-^dispute between Commo' 
 dore Perry and Captain Heath—another treaty concluded witk 
 the Dey by Commodore Chauncey-^ Perry in the Java returns 
 *o the United States — duel between Perry and Heath — in 1819, 
 Perry sails for the Orinoco — incidents of that voyage — re" 
 marks on the country, government, S{c.— proceeds to Port 
 Spain — his death and burial. 
 
 Commodore Perry continued to command on 
 the Newport station, and to superintend the equip- 
 ping of the Java, and fitting her for service, during 
 the year 1815. The Java, under the command of 
 Perry, was destined to sail for the Mediterranean, ag 
 a part of the naval force ordered there by the Ameri- 
 can government, to be commanded by Commodore 
 Chauncey. As preparatory to commencing this' 
 ^l^ruise, the Java proceeded to Newport, and remain- 
 
254 LIFE OF 
 
 ed in the harbour of that place for some time pre- 
 viously to sailing. 
 
 Whilst Perry was employed in preparing to sail 
 for the Mediterranean, an event occurred which is 
 no way important, but as affording an evidence of the 
 benevolence of his heart — of his affectionate regard 
 for American seamen, and of the promptitude and 
 readiness with which his services were offered, to as- 
 sist the distressed. 
 
 On the 10th January, (1816) an express arrived 
 at Newport from Brenton's Neck, with information 
 that a vessel had been stranded on the reefs, and 
 that several men were seen on part of the wreck, 
 driving at the mercy of the wind and waves. Ar- 
 rangements were immediately adopted to rescue 
 tbem, if possible, from their perilous situation. 
 Among others called upon to aid in the effort, was 
 Commodore Perry, then at his house ; who, on being 
 informed of the facts, immediately engaged in the 
 melancholy enterprise, in the most feeling and im- 
 pressive manner. His humane heart, rendered more 
 susceptible from his experience of the perils to which 
 seamen are exposed, enabled him to realize the criti- 
 cal situation of those unfortunate men, whose lives 
 were at the mercy of elements. The severity of the 
 weather, and the raging of the wind, did not weaken 
 his sympathies, or occasion him to pause a moment, 
 in his exertions to attempt to save the unfortunate 
 seamen. He immediately proceeded to his barge. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 250 
 
 anct without the least hesitation, stepped on board ; 
 when turning to his men, he observed, in the most af- 
 fecting and impressive manner, " Come my boys, we 
 are going to the rehef of shipwrecked seamen." These 
 words had the desired effect. — The animated and 
 sympathising countenances of the men, evinced the 
 lively sense which they felt for the perils and suifer- 
 ing of their unfortunate brethren, and of their readi- 
 ness to encounter every danger, to attempt to rescue 
 them from destruction. Having entered on beard 
 the barge, they rowed with great rapidity to the reef, 
 which was about five miles. The vessel proved to be 
 the schooner Eliza, Captain Charles Gorton, from 
 Havana, owned in Newport. She was dashed into a 
 thousand pieces. Eleven of her crew, on the quar- 
 ter deck, which had separated from the wreck, were 
 rescued from their awful situation, and their hves al- 
 most miraculously preserved. This simple occur- 
 rence speaks more forcibly, than the most elaborate 
 panegyric, in proof of the humane and benevolent 
 heart of Perry. We here behold the same man, who, 
 upon lake Erie, clothed with all the terrors of war. 
 was himself a host to the enemy, engaging with spir- 
 it and alacrity in an enterprise — not to meet aad 
 conquer the enemy, not to acquire glory and reriown* 
 and swell the expansive note of his own fame ; not 
 to defend the rights of his country, but to aid suffer- 
 ing humanity ; or, to use his own appropriate words, 
 |f* to relieve shipwrecked scamen,^'^ 
 
i^56 LIFE OF 
 
 Early in the spring of this year, ( 1 8 i 6) Perry sailed 
 in the Java for the Mediterranean, being the third 
 time he had visited that sea. The principal object 
 of the force, of which the Java formed a part, sent 
 to the Mediterranean at this period, seems to have 
 been to keep alive those favourable impressions 
 which had been produced by the appearance of the 
 first squadron under Commodore Decatur. On the 
 i20th of April, 1815, Decatur sailed from New-York, 
 for the Mediterranean, with a force consisting of the 
 Gnerriere, Constellation and Macedonian frigates ; 
 the Ontario and Epervier sloops of war, and the 
 schooners Spark, Spitfire, Torch, and Flambeau. — 
 This squadron was expected shortly to have been 
 followed by another, under Commodore Bainbridge, 
 who, on his arrival, it was understood was to take 
 the command of the whole force, and Decatur, in a 
 single vessel, to return to the United States. This 
 expedition was destined against the Dey of Algiers, 
 Congress having, immediately after the ratification 
 of the treaty of peace with Great-Britain, declared 
 w^ar against that Regency. The causes which led 
 to this measure had most of them existed for several 
 years, but in consequence of the war between the 
 United States and Great Britain, the subject had 
 been neglected by Congress. In the treaty conclu- 
 ded between the United States and the Regency of 
 Algiers, in 1795, the fonner being placed upon the 
 same footing a? other nations, was to pay to the Dey 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. :Zd t 
 
 the yearly tribute of twelve thousand Algerine Se- 
 quins, to be invested in naval stores. No difficul- 
 ties arose under this treaty, nor any infringements of 
 its provisions on the part of the Algerines, until 
 sometime in July, 1812, when the Dej violated its 
 most importaiit articles. 
 
 Whether the infraction of the treaty, and the hos- 
 tile conduct of the Dey at this time, was the result 
 of that capricious spirit of tyranny and injustice 
 which usually governs the councils of that Regency, 
 or whether it was occasioned, as some have suppos- 
 ed, by the near prospect of a war between the Uni- 
 ted Stfltes and Great-Britain, which the Dey was en- 
 couraged in the belief, would annihilate tlie naval 
 force of the former, and thereby prevent them from 
 taking satisfaction upon him, is uncertain. Perhaps 
 the latter cause might have come in aid of the for- 
 mer ; and the peace which he about that time con- 
 cluded with Portugal, which left no employment for 
 his cruisers, nor field for the gratification of his rapa- 
 city, might have had some clTect in stimulating him 
 to measures of hostility against the United States, 
 But whatever might have influenced the conduct of 
 the Dey, when the Allegany arrived at Algiers, in 
 July. 1812, with a cargo Gfna^ ul stores for the pay- 
 ment of the annual tribute, agn ably to the treaty 
 of 1795, his highness pretended that the assortment 
 of articles was not such as he was entitled to ; fell 
 into a violent passion, and declared that the cargo 
 
 2^* 
 
258 LIFE OF 
 
 should not be received, and that the vessel should 
 immediately leave Algiers. And in the paroxysm of 
 his rage, he insisted that CoL Lear, the American 
 aoasul at Algiers, should leave there with the vessel, 
 as he would not have a consul in his dominions Vvho 
 did not cause every article to be brought which he 
 had ordered. All attempts at explanation, on the 
 part of the consul, were without any effect. 
 
 A few days after, the Dey, who affected to be ex- 
 tremely angry, presented a novel and very extraor- 
 dinary demand, calculated to increase the difficul- 
 ties. It was a claim of twenty-seven thousand dol- 
 lars, as the arrearages of tribute, founded on the dif- 
 ference between the solar and lunar years ; one con- 
 sisting of three hundred and sixty-five, and the other 
 of three hundred and fifty-four days, making in the 
 seventeen years which had elapsed since the adop- 
 tion of the treaty, a period of six months. This dis- 
 tinction between the christian and Mahometan year 
 having never been urged before, it is certain that it 
 was insisted upon at this time merely as a pretext for 
 exacting money from the United States, or to create 
 additional pretences for hostilities. 
 
 The explanations and remonstrances of the Con- 
 sul, only served to exasperate the Dey, who finally 
 declared that if the money was not immediately paid 
 he should be sent to the marine in chains, the Allega- 
 ny and her cargo confiscated, and every citizen oi^ 
 the United States at Algiers, coiideiimed to perpetu- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 259 
 
 al slavery. These demands were attempted to be 
 mitigated, which induced the Dey to give to the 
 consul his definitive answer, which was, " that he 
 should the next morning, pay the twenty-seven 
 thousand dollars and then depart with his family, and 
 all the citizens of the United States, from the Regen- 
 cy of Algiers." This communication being consid- 
 ered as conclusive, Col. Lear, anxious to avert the 
 calamities which threatened himself and family, and 
 hkewise a number of his countrymen, then in Al- 
 giers, made every exertion to raise the money, 
 which was finally obtained of a merchant at that 
 place, in whose favour bills for the amount were 
 drawn on the American consul at Gibraltar. The 
 money was paid into the treasury before the time 
 specified by the Dey. Col. Lear, having entrusted 
 his property to the agent-general of his Swedish Ma- 
 jesty at Algiers, with his family, and about twenty 
 other Americans, immediately embarked on board 
 the Allegany, for America. His departure was fol- 
 lowed by the immediate commencement of hostili- 
 ties upon the commerce of the United States. 
 
 These and subsequent outrages of the Regency of 
 Algiers, upon the commerce and citizens of the Uni- 
 ted States, remained, without the government's hav- 
 ing adopted any measures to obtain redress, or to 
 chastise these piratical freebooters, until 1815, when 
 Congress, as we have already noticed, declared war 
 against the Regency of Algiers, 
 
260 LIFE OF 
 
 Decatur's squadron arrived at Gibraltar about the 
 15th of May ; as d being informed there that the Al- 
 gerine squadron which had been out into the Atlan- 
 tic, had passed up the straits, and that the news of 
 his arrival had been received at Algiers, he determi- 
 ned to proceed immediately up the Mediterranean, 
 in the hope of intercepting the enemy's squadron be- 
 fore it could return to Algiers, or gain a neutral port. 
 This expectation was realised, at least in part. The 
 Algerine frigate Mazouda, was fell in with by the 
 Guerriere, on the 17th of June, off Cape de Gatt, 
 and captured after a running action of twenty-five 
 minutes. The crew of the Algerine frigate, after 
 receiving two broadsides, all ran below. There was 
 about thirty of them killed, among whom was the fa- 
 mous Algerine Admiral Hammida, who had long 
 been the terror of the Mediterranean ; and the pris- 
 oners taken amounted to four hundred and six. Of 
 the crew of the Guerriere four were wounded by 
 musketry. Two days after, off cape Palos, the squad- 
 ron fell in with an Algerine brig of twenty-two guns, 
 which was chased close along shore by the Eper- 
 vier, Spark, Torch and Spitfire, to which she sur- 
 rendered, after the loss of 23 men. This brig, 
 with most of the prisoners on hoard, v/as sent into 
 Carthagena, where she was aftei'wards claimed by 
 the Spanish government, on the plea that she wa5 
 captured within the jurisdiction of the Spanish terri- 
 tory. After this event the squadron proceeded tq 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. ^O i 
 
 4kiers, where it arrived on the 28th of June. Hav- 
 ing captured a frigate and a brig of the enemy's 
 squadron, and supposing that the remainder of it had 
 probably put into some neutral port, Commodore 
 Decatur thought it a favourable time to take advan- 
 tage of the alarm which his sudden and unwelcome 
 arrival had occasioned, to open a negociation; and 
 he accordingly dispatched to the Dey a letter from 
 the President of the United States. On the receipt 
 af this letter, the Captain of the port, accompanied 
 by Mr. Norderling, the Swedish consul, was imme- 
 diately dispatched to the Guerriere, to further the 
 negociation. Decatur and Mr. Shaler, who had 
 been authorised to negociate a treaty, proposed the 
 only basis upon which an adjustment could be made, 
 which was, the absolute and unqualified relinquish- 
 ment of any demand of tribute on the part of the i?e- 
 gency, on any pretence zvhatsoever* 
 
 To this basis the agent of the Dey demurred. It 
 being supposed that he was not apprised of the cap- 
 ture of the frigate and brig, he was asked if he knew 
 what had become of the Algerine squadron ; to which 
 he answered — " By this time it is safe in some neu^ 
 tral port." '' Not the whole of it," was the reply* 
 He was then informed of the capture of the frigate 
 and brig, and of the death of Hammida. At this he 
 shook his head, smiling, with a look of incredulity, 
 considering it a mere attempt to operate on his fears, 
 to induce him to accede to the proposed basis. The 
 
262 LiLE oir 
 
 Lieutenant of Hammida was then called m^ who 
 confirnming the truth of these facts, the negociator 
 was completely unnerved, and at once agreed to the 
 basis proposed, premising, however, that he was not 
 then authorised to conclude a treaty, but requested 
 the American commissioners to state the terms upon 
 which they were willing to negociate. This being 
 done, he requested a cessation of hostilities, and 
 that the negociation should be conducted on shore, 
 the Minister of Marine pledging himself for their 
 safety whilst there, and their safe return whenever 
 they might desire to. A compliance v.ith both these 
 propositions was refused, and the Captain of the 
 port expressly informed, that the negociation would 
 be carried on no where else, but on board of the 
 Guerricre, and that hostilities would still be prose- 
 cuted against the vessels belonging to the Algerines 
 until the treaty was signed by the Day. 
 
 The Algerine negociator and the Swedish consul 
 then went ashore, but returned the next day with in- 
 formation that they were authorised to conclude a 
 treaty, upon the proposed basis. The American 
 commissioners then produced a treaty, premising 
 that the same could not be materially varied in any 
 of its provisions, which rendered all discussion use- 
 less, and inasmuch as it would occasion delay, dan- 
 gerous on the part of the Dey, for if, in the interim, 
 his squadron was to appear, it v/ould certainly be at- 
 tacked. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 263 
 
 The Captarn of the port, on examining the trea- 
 ty, manifested no particular opposition except to 
 the article which provided for the restoration of 
 property taken by the Algerines during the war. 
 He was extremely anxious to have this dispen- 
 sed with, urging that as the property could not 
 be reclaimed, having gone into many hands, and as 
 it was not the present Dey who commenced hostili- 
 ties against the United States, it would be extremely 
 hard to make him answerable for the consequences. 
 
 After various fruitless attempts to get rid of this ar- 
 ticle, to obtain a truce, and gain time, the American 
 commissioners being inflexible, the Dey's negociator 
 was obliged to yield the point. A few hours after- 
 wards the treaty was signed by the Dey, and returned, 
 together with the American prisoners at Algiers, 
 whose liberation formed one of the articles of the 
 treaty. In addition to the fundamental article, the 
 relinquishment on the part of the Regency of Al- 
 giers, to all claims of tribute of the United States, 
 under any pretence whatsoever, the treaty provided 
 for the liberation of American prisoners, without ran- 
 som ; for compensation to the United States for ves- 
 sels and property seized or detained ; for the securi- 
 ty of the persons and property of Americans, found 
 on board the vessels of an enemy ; that the vessels of 
 either party, in the ports of the other, should be sup- 
 plied with provisions at the market price, and, if re- 
 pairs were required, should be permitted to land 
 
264 hi^E OF 
 
 their cargo without paying duty ; that if a vessel oi 
 either party should be cast on shore within the terri- 
 tory of the other, she should not be given up to plun- 
 der, or if attacked by an enemy, within cannon shot 
 of a fort, should be protected, and on her going to 
 sea again, the enemy not permitted to follow her 
 within twenty-four hours. The treaty also contain- 
 ed another important principle, in the observance of 
 which the whole civilized world is interested ; but 
 being one, which essentially interferes with the poli- 
 cy of all the Barbary powers, and with an important 
 branch of their revenue, it is hardly to be expected 
 that it will be regarded any longer than /ear may op- 
 erate to produce such a result. The principle allu- 
 ded to is, that the citizens of the United States which 
 may be taken during war, should be considered and 
 treated as prisoners of war are by other nations, and 
 not made slaves of; and that they should be exchan- 
 ged without ransom. If the states of Barbary could 
 be compelled to recognize and respect this princi- 
 ple, it would ipso facio, change their political char- 
 acter. 
 
 On the part of the American commissioners, they 
 agreed to deliver up the frigate and the biig which 
 had been captured, to the Algerines. This engage- 
 ment, however, it is believed, went no farther than to 
 a relinquishment, on the part of the United States, of 
 their claim to these vessels, leaving the Dey to settle 
 the controVersey with the Spanish government, as to 
 
OLIVER H. PERR¥, 265 
 
 the brig, who claimed it on the ground that it was 
 captured within the limits of their jurisdiction. 
 
 Our differences with Algiers being thus promptly 
 and satisfactorily adjusted, Commodore Decatur, 
 having dispatched Captain Lewis, in the Epervier, 
 with the treaty, to the United States, and two schoon- 
 ers to Carthagena, to convoy home the two Algerine 
 vessel*, sailed with the rest of the squadron for Tu- 
 nis, Mr. Shaler was left at Algiers as consul gene- 
 ral to the Barbary states. The existence of a mis- 
 understanding between the American consul, and 
 the Bashaw of Tunis, was the cause of Decatur's 
 visiting that place. 
 
 On his arrival, he was informed by the American 
 consul that the Bashaw had violated the treaty, in 
 having, during the war between the United States 
 and Great-Britain, permitted two prizes, captut-ed 
 by a privateer of the former, to be taken out of the 
 harbour by a cruiser of the latter ; and also in per= 
 mittinga company of merchants, his own subjects, 
 to take the property of an American citizen at their 
 own price, subjecting him to a great sacrifice. The 
 facts being officially substantiated, Decatur demand- 
 ed immediate satisfaction. The prime minister ad- 
 mitted the truth of the facts, and the justice of the 
 claim, but solicited twelve months to pay the money. 
 This was refused ; whereupon assurances were given 
 that it would be paid immediately. The Commo- 
 dore then went on shoxe and received the visits of 
 
 23 
 
^66 LIFE OF 
 
 the different consuls. The money was paid by tlie 
 brother of the prime minister, who, observing Com- 
 modore Decatur in conversation with the British 
 consul, he approached them, and throwing down the 
 bags containing the money, with great indignation, 
 addressed himself to the latter, in English, as follows : 
 ^' You see, sir, what Tunis is obliged to pay for}'Our 
 insolence. You must feel ashamed of the (iisgrace 
 you have brought upon us. You are very good 
 friends now, but I ask you whether you think it just, 
 first to violate our neutrality, and then to leave us to 
 be destroyed, or pay for your aggressions." 
 
 We do not know what elfect this reproach had up- 
 on the British consul, but it was certainly founded in 
 truth and justice. The Bashaw, however, was not 
 satisfied with complaints against the party who was 
 ihe principal aggressor ; he intended to have the 
 money refunded, and immediately proposed to dis- 
 patch a minister to England, to demand it. 
 
 After this adjustment with Tunis, Decatur pro- 
 ceeded to Tripoli, which had also violated its treaty 
 with the United States, in having permitted two 
 American vessels to be taken by a British sloop of 
 war, from under the guns of the castle, and in refus- 
 ing protection to an American cruiser lying within 
 its jurisdiction. Satisfaction for these vessels, which 
 were estimated at twenty-five thousand dollars, was 
 promptly demanded, which the Bashaw, remember- 
 ing the former war with the Americans, and not dar- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 267 
 
 ing to provoke their hostility, ordered to be immedi- 
 ately paid to the American consul. 
 
 After this adjustment, the American consular flag, 
 which had been struck in consequence of these vi- 
 olations of neutrality, and infractions of the subsist- 
 ing treaty, was hoisted, and saluted with thirty-one 
 guns, from the castle.—Previously to leaving Al- 
 giers, Decatur performed a service which was 
 highly honourable to his character, as it could have 
 proceeded from no other motive than those of human- 
 ity and benevolence. He procured the release of 
 ten captives, two Danes, and eight Neapolitans, the 
 latter of whom he landed at Messina. The last of 
 August the squadron sailed for Carthagena, and not 
 meeting there the reinforcement, or second division 
 ©f the squadron, under Commodore Bainbridge, pro- 
 ceeded to Gibraltar. 
 
 The two divisions of the squadron having united, 
 Decatur relinquished the command to Bainbridge, 
 and returned to the United States in the Guerriere? 
 where he arrived on the 12th of November. 
 
 All differences with the several states of Barbary 
 having been adjusted, before the arrival of Bain- 
 bridge, that gallant officer had no opportunity of dis- 
 tinguishing himself, nor any efficient service to per- 
 form ; but, pursuant to instructions, he proceeded 
 with the squadron, thus reinforced, and exhibited it 
 before Algiers, Tunis and Tripoli, which occasioued 
 
^&S LIFE 01' 
 
 great surprise, particularly the Independence 74, ss 
 they had always supposed that the United States, 
 hy their treaties with England, were restricted from 
 building vessels of this class. Colonel Lear, whenf 
 consulat Algiers, frequently attempted to undeceive 
 the ministers of the Dey upon this subject ; but they 
 always replied, '' If you are permitted to build 74's 
 let us see one of them and we shall be satisfied." — 
 Commodore Bainbridge arrived at Boston the 15th 
 of November, 1815, being three days before the ar- 
 rival of the Guerrier.* 
 
 This expedition, although it was characterised by 
 no splendid or desperate achievements, and afford- 
 ed no opportunities for the display of the consum- 
 mate skill and undaunted bravery of our seamen,, 
 was however productive of as important and honour- 
 able results, perhaps, as any other ever destined by 
 any nation, against the Barbary powers. It effected 
 what Louis XIV., and Lord Nelson, with the most 
 ample means, failed of attaining, a prompt and satis- 
 factory adjustment of all differences, and the estab- 
 lishment of commercial relations, founded upon 
 principles, vvlijch the Barbary stales have seldom, if 
 ever before recognised. Not a demand was made 
 which was not acceded to. The expedition also 
 ha! fne effect of chastising and humbling these law- 
 ](^.ss pirates, who respect neither the laws of nation- 
 
OLIVER H. PJiRRY. ^69 
 
 iior their ovvn treaties, (unless compelled to from the 
 fear of chastisement,) and who for ages have most 
 seriously annoyed the commerce of the Mediterrane- 
 an, and been the scourge of the civilized world. — 
 The chastisement which they received, and the con- 
 siderable force which was displayed, was calculated 
 to impress them with high ideas of our rising naval 
 power, and the prowess of our seamen, and give them 
 a sense of their own naval inferiority. This last ob- 
 ject was rendered more important, and was calcula- 
 ted to have a more salutary effect, in consequence 
 of these events following so close upon the war be- 
 tween the United States and Great-Britain. These 
 barbarians were perfectly astonished at the sudden 
 appearance, in the Mediterranean, of so large a 
 squadron from the United States, almost immediate- 
 ly after bhe had closed a war, which, from their 
 knowledge of the maritime resources of the English, 
 they supposed, would annihilate every American 
 ship of war. It is pretty certain that the British en- 
 couraged them in this idea ; and they were after- 
 wards reproached by the Algerines with having de- 
 ceived them and led them into a w^ar with the Uiii- 
 ted States. One of the Dey's officers is said to have 
 addressed the British consul at Algiers, as follows : 
 »' You told us that the American navy would be de- 
 stroyed in six months, by you, and now they make 
 war upon us with two of your oion vessels they have 
 taken from you." 
 
270 
 
 LIFE OF 
 
 From the?e and other circumstances, the appear- 
 ance of so respectable a force in the Mediterranean 
 at that time, must have had a most important effect, 
 and was one of the principal objects of the govern- 
 ment. 
 
 It was principally with a view to this object, and 
 to confirm and strengthen the impressions which the 
 two first squa irons had produced, that the Java, 
 and the force under Com. Chauncey was sent out the 
 following year. — The treaty concluded by Commo- 
 dore Decatur, after being ratified by the American 
 government, was carried out in the Java, to be ex- 
 changed for the unratified treaty. The Java arriv- 
 ed at Port Mahon, where that portion of the first 
 squadron which had not returned to the United States 
 had made their winter quarters. Afterwards, on the 
 5th of April, the Java, Constellation, Erie, and John 
 Adams, left this place and proceeded to Algiers, where 
 they found an English fleet, consisting of six line of 
 battle ships, two frigates, three sloops, a bomb ship, 
 and a number of transports, under the command of 
 Lord Exmouth, anchored in the bay in order of bat- 
 tle', abrest of the batteries. The English Admiral 
 first made a demand of an unconditional liberation of 
 all christian slaves ; which being refused, a demand 
 was made, accompanied with an offer of a sum of 
 money which was acceded to. The demand, it is 
 believed, was confined to the Neapolitans and Sar- 
 dinians, of which there were more than twelve bun- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 271 
 
 dred at Algiers, a striking evidence of the mischiev- 
 ous eifects of the barbarous policy of these despe- 
 rate pirates. The sum of one thousand dollars a 
 head was agreed to be paid for the former, and five 
 hundred for the latter, from which it is inferrable 
 that his Lordship's fleet, formidable as it was, did 
 not make a very serious impression. 
 
 Commodore Shaw, who commanded the Ameri- 
 can squadron, and Mr. Shaler, our Consul at Al- 
 giers, had an audience with the Dey, and presented 
 to him the ratified treaty ; but he either did not, or 
 affected not to, understand the nature of the ratifica- 
 tion, and enquired why another treaty should be of- 
 fered to him. This being explained, he requested 
 that the two treaties should be read, and although it 
 appeared that they were word for word the same, 
 he intimated, notwithstanding, that several of the ar- 
 ticles had undergone some change, and said that nei- 
 ther he nor his council could understand them. He 
 complained that the captured brig, (which was carri^ 
 ed into Carthagena, and was claimed by the Spanish 
 authorities,) had not been restored to him, agreeably 
 to the stipulation in the treaty, and that presents 
 had been promised him, which he had not received, 
 and concluded by observing, that the Americans were 
 unworthy of his confidence. — The negociation was 
 here ended ; bat the next day Mr. Shaler requested 
 another audience with the Dey, which was refused ; 
 he had, however, an interview with the prime minis- 
 
272 LIFE Oi' 
 
 ter, whose conduct and language were very insulting 
 and by whom the treaty was returned. Under these 
 circumstances, it was thought most advisable for the 
 consul to withdraw, and he accordingly took up his 
 residence on board the frigate United States. 
 
 After four days negociation, under the protection 
 of a white flag, the dispute was so far arranged, that 
 the Dey re-acknowledged the treaty, and promised 
 to wait until instructions could be received from the 
 President of the United States, relative to the points 
 in dispute. The attitude assumed by our squadron, 
 although small, and the exalted opinion which the 
 Dey entertained of the desperate bravery of our sea- 
 men, induced him to agree to this measure. The 
 fears of the Dey were not removed by the fair words 
 of the British, who, whilst at Algiers, told him that 
 " the Americans had neither ships nor money." — 
 This expression was afterwards made use of by the 
 prime minister, to Mr. Shaler ; but the Dey knev/ 
 too well from past events, the consequences of hos- 
 tilities with the United States, to believe it. 
 
 Soon after these events, the Spanish returned the 
 brig and crew in dispute, representing to the Dey, 
 however, that she was given to him as a present from 
 their Sovereign, and that (he circumstance would not 
 at all effect his claim upon the United States. The 
 squadron left Algiers, and sailed for Barcelona, ex- 
 cepting the John Adams, which returned to the Uni- 
 ted States. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 27S 
 
 Whilst in the Mediterranean, in the month of 
 September, an unhappy controversy arose between 
 Commodore Perry and John Heath, Captain of Ma- 
 rines on board the Java. It is not our intention to 
 go into a very particular detail of the circumstances 
 of this unfortunate dispute ; much less to attempt to 
 give the transaction any colouring which truth and 
 justice would not warrant. This work is not intend- 
 ed to be an eulogy upon Commodore Perry, but a 
 faithful history of the events of his life, so far as they 
 are deemed of any interest to the public, or of any 
 importance in appreciating his character. In doing 
 this, it is but just to acknowledge that we have form- 
 ed sentiments of respect for the character, and vene- 
 i ration for the memory of Perry, which we did not en- 
 tertain at the time we engaged in the undertaking. 
 But to suppose that in the course of his life he never, 
 in a single instance, acted indiscreetly, intemperate- 
 lly, or mistakenly, would be to suppose him to have 
 been perfect ; or that he was something more than 
 . 77ian, For we are almost every day convinced, either 
 from experience or observation, that '' to err is hu- 
 man.^^ This is the nature of man ; it results from 
 " the constitution and structure of his faculties, and the 
 limited means of his knowledge. 
 
 The following letter, addressed by Perry to Com- 
 modore Chauncey, senior ofiicer and commander of 
 the squadron, requesting an enquiry into his conduct, 
 contains a history of the quarrel, as well as Perry's 
 
274 LIFE OF 
 
 explanations, and suggestions tending to justify his 
 conduct. 
 
 United States'' Ship Java, Tunis Bay, Oct, Bih, 181 6. 
 
 Sir — I am under the painful necessity of inform- 
 ing you of a circumstance, and of detailing to you 
 the causes which led to an event of a very unpleasant 
 nature. 
 
 The apparent violation of the laws of my country, 
 which may be imputed to me in my having offered 
 personal violence to the Captain of the Marine guard 
 of this ship, I trust will be in a great measure exten- 
 uated by the consideration that, although 1 do not 
 absolutely defend this mode of redress, yet I insist 
 the consequences were produced by a sufficient pro- 
 vocation. 
 
 The general deportment of Captain Heath towards 
 me, so contrary to the usual address of my officers, 
 and moreover, his marked insolence to me in many 
 instances, induced me to believe, that his conduct 
 proceeded from a premeditated determination to in- 
 sult me on every occasion. 
 
 His palpable neglect of duty on several important 
 emergencies, together with the usual indolence and 
 inattention to the calls of his office, made it a desira- 
 ble object with me to solicit his removal the first con- 
 venient opportunity, not only to obtain a more active 
 and vigilant officer, but to save him the rigorous se 
 verity of a court martial. ^ 
 
OLIVER H. PERRV. 275' 
 
 1 now, sir, narrate to you, the circumstances which 
 have thus compelled me to address you. 
 
 On the evening of the 1 6th of September last, while 
 this ship lay at anchor in the harbour of Messina, two 
 of her marines deserted, by jumping overboard and 
 swimming on shore. Informed of the fact. Captain 
 Heath, as their commanding officer, was immediate- 
 ly sent for and acquainted therewith, but he refused 
 to go on deck, alledgingas a reason therefor, the sub- 
 terfuge of indisposition. I then repeated the order 
 for him to come on deck, and muster the marines* 
 This duty he executed in so careless and indifferent 
 a manner, and at the same time neglected to report 
 to me until called by me, and requested so to do, that 
 (conscious that such an occasion ought to animate 
 the most careless and inattentive officer, to decision 
 and promptitude,) I was induced from such a mani- 
 fest neglect of duty, to say to him, " that he might 
 go below, and should do no more duty on board the 
 Java." 
 
 On the evening of the 1 8th September, he address- 
 ed to me a letter, written by himself, which he caus- 
 ed to be laid on the table in the cabin, and which i 
 received at a very late hour. This letter being couch- 
 ed in language which I deemed indecorous and dis- 
 respectful, I sent for him and demanded why he thus 
 addressed me, and particularly why he had selected 
 a time so obviously improper. He immediately as- 
 sumed a manner so highly irritating and contempty- 
 
^T6 LIFE OF 
 
 0U9, that I believed it my duty to arrest him, (aftei 
 having expressed to him my indignation at such con- 
 duct) and for this purpose sent for the 2d marine of- 
 ficer, at the same time ordering him to ])e silent. In 
 utter disregard of this order, though repeatedly warn- 
 ed of tlie consequences of his disobedience, he per» 
 severed in the same irritating tone and manner, un. 
 til at length, after reiterating attempts to effect his 
 silence, I gave him a blow. Frequent outrage added 
 to frequent insult, provoked this disagreeable conse- 
 quence. 
 
 Mortified, that I should so idiV forget myself as to 
 raise my arm against any officer holding a commission 
 in the service of the United States, howeverimproper 
 his conduct might have been, and however just the 
 cause, I immediately, in conformity to this principle, 
 offered to make such an apology as should be proper 
 for both : this proposal was refused, which precluded 
 the necessity of any further overtures. — The ofTer 
 was consonant to the views of some of the most dis- 
 tinguished officers of the squadron, after their being 
 made fully acquainted with e\eyy particular. 
 
 From my having been educated in the strictest 
 discipline of the navy, in which, respect and obedi- 
 ence to a superior was instilled into my mind as a 
 fundamental and leading principle, and from a natu- 
 ral disposition to chastise insolence and impertinence, 
 immediately when offered me, even in private life, 
 must be inferred the burst of indignant feeling, which 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 277 
 
 prompted me to inflict personal satisfaction on an offi- 
 cer who thus daringly outraged the vital interests of 
 the service in my own person. 
 
 I have thus gone through this unpleasant recital 
 with as much candor and conciseness as possible.—- 
 ! might indeed detail to you other acts of delinquen- 
 cy in this officer, but I will not further weary you 
 with the circumstances of this unfortunate affair, but 
 confine myself to the request, that you will be pleas- 
 ed to order a court of inquiry or court martial, as 
 you may see fit, to examine into the causes which 
 led to this seeming infraction of the laws of the 
 navy. 
 
 After eighteen years of important and arduous 
 services in the cause of my country, it can hardly be 
 imagined that I have any disposition to infringe that 
 discipline, which is the pride and ornament of the 
 navy ; and to prevent any intention being falsely as- 
 cribed to me, I beg you will give immediate atten- 
 tion to this request, that the navy, as well as my 
 country, shall be satisfied of the integrity of my mo 
 tives. 
 
 1 have the honour to be, Sir, 
 Very respectfully, 
 
 Your obedient servant. 
 (Signed) O. H. PERRY. 
 
 To haac Chauncey, Esq, Commodorty ^c. 
 
 24 
 
278 LIFE OF 
 
 After a careful examination of all the facts and 
 circumstances of this affair, so far as they can be as- 
 certained from the minutes of the proceedings of 
 the court martial which tried the two officers, we 
 are led to believe that, as is the case in most other 
 personal quarrels, both parties were somewhat to 
 blame, and that the conduct of each proceeded in a 
 great measure^ from mistaken and erroneovs impres- 
 sions, as to the motives and behaviour of the other. 
 
 That Perry's conduct on the 18th Septembers 
 when on receiving Captain Heath's letter, he order- 
 ed him into his cabin, was intemperate, and particu- 
 larly, that, in offering personal violence to Captain 
 Heath, it was unjustifiable, all will perhaps admit. 
 But on the other hand, he either had, or supposed 
 he had, a very great provocation, which produced 
 such a ^' burst of indignant feeling," as to deprive 
 reason of its dominion. — Whether Captain Heath 
 intended to insult his superior officer, is, we are idu- 
 ced to believe, uncertain, and whether his demean- 
 our was such as would have produced this impres- 
 sion upon the mind of every person, is perhaps equal- 
 ly questionable ; but that it produced this impres- 
 sion upon the mind of Ferry, we think there can be 
 no reasonable doubt. To believe the contrary of 
 this, would be to suppose that this act of violence and 
 tyranny, was committed from mere wantonness; a 
 supposition which the general character of Perry, ^ 
 ?»nd the conduct of his whole life, forbidb% 
 
OLIVER H. lERRV. -279 
 
 His situation, therefore, was extremely critical, 
 jLiid peculiarly calculated to awaken every latent 
 feeling of indignation. However the fact nnight have 
 been, he considered that a direct and intentional per- 
 sonal insult, was offered him by an inferior officer, 
 under his immediate command. That this should 
 have produced a burst of indignant feeling, and even 
 that it should have induced an officer, especially one 
 who had '' been educated in the strictest discipline 
 of the navy, in which respect and obedience to a su» 
 perior, was instilled into his mind as a leading and 
 fundamental principle," to repel the daring outrage 
 upon the spot, cannot, we think, be a matter of sur- 
 prise. 
 
 Although we have placed this affair in the light we 
 have, it is perhaps proper to remark, that the court 
 martial which examined into the conduct of Captain 
 Heath, found him guilty of "disrespectful, insolent, 
 and contemptuous conduct, towards Captain Perry^ 
 his superior officer;" and also of disobedience of his 
 orders. Perry was found guilty of having used im- 
 proper language, and of striking Captain Heath. 
 
 In these remarks, intcRded to extenuate, not to 
 say justify, the conduct of Commodore Perry, we have 
 considered the conduct of Captain Heath in a less 
 culpable light than it was exhibited by the decis- 
 ion of the court martial ; not deeming it material, as 
 it respects Perry's vindication, whether Capt. Heath 
 did intentionally insult him, or whether from what 
 
280 LIFE OF 
 
 had previously occurred, and his demeanor at the 
 time, Perry supposed that he intended to insult him, 
 and viewed his conduct in that hght. Was it neces- 
 sary to say more upon this subject, it might be ob- 
 served that the general character of Perry, was such 
 as to effectually shield it from any imputation of un- 
 proked violence, tyranny, and arbitrary conduct. — 
 He was, during his whole life, remarkable for his 
 modest deportment, for the affability of his manners, 
 a]id for his miJd and unassuming conduct. And al- 
 though v/e would not entirely justify his conduct, on 
 this occasion, yet there is something in it not only free 
 from blame, but highly meritorious. The man o^ 
 real worth and virtue, often appears lovely even in 
 his faults. These frequently appear like a veil 
 thrown over his virtues, which, although it may ob- 
 scure their brilliancy, gives them a novel, and often 
 a more interesting character, from their being seen 
 through a different medium. Not only do the differ- 
 ent coloui's appear the most brillirint when contrast- 
 ed with each other, but the richest lustre is usually 
 produced by a proper admixture of " light and 
 dhade." 
 
 If to " err is human," it is equally true, that to 
 " forgive is divine." In the transaction of which 
 we have been speaking, if Perry, from a combina- 
 tion of extraordinary circumstances, was betrayed 
 info an ir Vmperate and improper act, he was prompt 
 and ready to offer satisfaction for it. Whatever may 
 
OLIVER H. PERRV. 281 
 
 he thought of the merits of the controversy, in other 
 respects, it must, we believe, be admitted that in thif; 
 particular, Perry had an evident advantage over his 
 opponent. His conduct after the occurrence, was 
 conciliatory and honourable. Although conscious of 
 having been grossly provoked, he promptly offered 
 to make an honourable apology to Captain Heath for 
 the aggression on his part. This, althougli repeat- 
 ed and submitted in writing, was peremptorily re- 
 fused. 
 
 The Dey of Algiers having again evinced a dispo- 
 sition to disregard some of the provisions of the trea- 
 ty concluded by Commodore Decatur, it was thought 
 advisable to compel him to recognise, more distinct- 
 ly, the principles of that treaty. Accordingly, on 
 the 25th December, (1816,) Commodore Chauncey 
 concluded another treaty with the Dey, wliich was 
 not only formed upon the same basis, but comprised 
 all the principal features of the former treaty, differ- 
 ing from that only in some unimportant particulars. 
 Information of this event was immediately communi- 
 cated by Commodore Chauncey, to the several Amer- 
 ican consuls in the Mediterranean, and also that oui 
 ix'lations with the other Barbary powers remained 
 undisturbed, so that the American commerce had 
 nothing to apprehend from tlie cruisers of any of 
 those powers. 
 
 After these events, the Java, and the Ontario 
 sloop of war, sailed for the United Slates, leaving 
 
 24* 
 
282 LIFE OP 
 
 the rest of the squadron at Port Mahon. The Java 
 arrived at Newport, early in March, (1817,) bearing 
 dispatches from Commodore Chauncey. The On- 
 tario, commanded by Captain Downes, arrived at 
 Annapolis. 
 
 After his return, Commodore Perry remained at 
 Newport, and in June following, in conjunction with 
 Commodore Bainbridge and Captain Evans, he was 
 appointed by the President of the United States to 
 survey and examine the harbour of Newport, with 
 the view to ascertain the advantages of the place 
 for a naval depot, dock yard, &c. which the govern- 
 ment contemplated to establish, several other har- 
 bours having been examined for the same purpose. 
 
 In the month of July, Perry retired from the com- 
 iiand of the Java, on which occasion the officers of 
 that ship presented him an address, containing the 
 most flattering testimony of the affection and respect 
 which they felt for their commander. Was any 
 wanted, this would be conclusive evidence that Per- 
 ry, during the voyage to the Mediterranean, had 
 not, in the exercise of his authority, been guilty of 
 tyrannical and arbitrary conduct. On leaving the 
 Java, he resumed the command on the Newport sta- 
 don, in which he continued during this, and a part of 
 (he following year. 
 
 We have now to notice an occurrence which grew 
 out of, and which terminated the misunderstanding 
 between Commodore Perry and Captain Heath,— 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 283 
 
 Early m October, 1818, Captain Heath visited 
 Rhode- Island, from whence he forwarded to Com- 
 modore Perry a communication, demanding what is 
 called honourable satifaction for the injury he claim- 
 ed to have received in the Mediterranean. The ob- 
 ject of Captain Heath's visit, and communication, 
 being ascertained, the authorities of the state inter- 
 fered, and prevented a meeting. In consequence of 
 this, Commodore Perry agreed to go on to Washing- 
 ton on the 10th of October, for the purpose of giving 
 Captain Heath the satisfaction which he demanded. 
 The following note, which was endorsed on the pre- 
 liminary arrangement relative to the meeting, ex- 
 plains Perry's views upon the subject : — 
 
 " Captain Perry desires it to be explicitly under- 
 stood, that in according to Captain Heath the per- 
 sonal satisfaction he has demanded, he has been in- 
 fluenced entirely by a sense of what he considers 
 due from him, as an atonement to the violated rules 
 of the service, and not by any considerations of the 
 claims which Captain Heath may have for making 
 such a demand, which he totally denies, as such 
 claims have been forfeited by the measures of a pub- 
 lic character, which Captain Heath has adopted to- 
 wards him. If, therefore, the civil authority should 
 produce an impossibility of meeting at the time and 
 place designated, which he will take every precau- 
 tion to prevent, he will consider himself absolutely 
 
264 LILE OF 
 
 exonerated from any responsibility to Captain 
 Heath, touching their presentcause of difference." 
 
 This was signed by the seconds of the two parties^ 
 Previously to this time, in January, 1818, Perry ad- 
 dressed a letter to Commodore Decatur, in which he 
 expresses the same sentiments contained in the pre- 
 ceding note; that although he considered from the 
 course Captain Heath had thought proper to pursue, 
 he was absolved from ail accountability to him ; yet 
 inasmuch as in a moment of irritation, produced by 
 strong provocation, he had raised his hand against a 
 person honoured with a commission, he had deter- 
 mined, upon mature reflection, that in case he should 
 be called on by Captain Heath, togive him a meeting, 
 declaring at the same time, that he could not consent 
 to return his fire, as the meeting would, on his part, 
 be entirely as an atonement for the violated rules of 
 the service — And at the same time he requested 
 Commodore Decatur to serve as his friend, in case 
 he should be called out. Such were the circumstan- 
 ces, on the part of Perry, under which this meeting 
 took place. 
 
 Having made the necessary arrangements, the par- 
 ties and their friends, proceeded to Philadelphia, and 
 from thence to New- York, or its vicinity. The meet- 
 ing took place on the 19th of October, on the Jersey 
 shore of the Hudson, where captain Perry received 
 the fire of Captain Heath, without returning it, when 
 Commodore Decatur immediately stepped forwan3 
 
OLIVER H. PERRV. 2t& 
 
 and deciared that Commodore Perry came to the 
 ground with a determination not to return the fire of 
 Captain Heath ; in proof of which he read the letter 
 from Commodore Perry, of which we have already 
 spoken, and concluded by observing, that he presum- 
 ed the party claiming to be aggrieved, was satisfied. 
 Captain Heath acquiesced in this opinion, and ac- 
 knowledged that the injury he had received from 
 Captain Perry was atoned for. The parties then re- 
 turned to the city of New- York. 
 
 In this affair, which terminated the unfortunate 
 dispute between Commodore Perry and Captain 
 Heath, it must be admitted that the conduct of Per- 
 ry was honourable and magnanimous, and, was it not 
 for the objection which is justly felt to the practice 
 of duelling, in all and every shape, it could hardly 
 fail to excite the highest admiration. 
 
 In my opinion, however, the view taken of this 
 subject by Com. Perry, was incorrect, as T cannot 
 persuade myself that, because a vaLuable officer, in a 
 moment of irritation, has violated the rules of the 
 service in which he was employed, this circumstance 
 can justify him in jeopardising his own life, thus dis- 
 regarding the principles of self-preservation, which 
 the God of nature has implanted in man, for the wis- 
 est of purposes ; and much less can I perceive why 
 his thus jeopardising his life, which might forever 
 deprive his country of his services, should be consid- 
 ered as an atonement for the offence. The abhor- 
 
286 LIFE OF 
 
 rerice with which I view this barbarous practice, 
 which seems to have been transmitted to the present 
 day as a precious relic of the manners and customs of 
 former times, growing out of the feudal institutions 
 of Europe, is such, that it is impossible for me to 
 consider it as justifiable under any circumstances. 
 Yet all perhaps, will admit, that wilh <ho5e who make 
 arms their profession^ the practice of duelling is more 
 excusable than with any others ; as with them their 
 professional character must be maintained, not only 
 free from dishonour, but free from suspicion. 
 
 Although the soundness of this principle will not 
 be disputed, yet this does not justify the practice of 
 duelling among military men ; as to do this, it is ne- 
 cessary to demonstrate, that their honour, or profes- 
 sional character, cannot be preserved in any other 
 way ; a proposition, which we apprehend, cannot be 
 supported. Yet the difference between |he case of 
 an officer of the army or navy, who resorts to this 
 honourable mode of obtaining satisfaction for a real 
 or supposed injury, and that of any other person, who 
 attempts to redress his wrongs in the same barbarous 
 way, is certainly very great, and the former much less 
 criminal. But this case of Perry's is no ordinary 
 meeting between two military men ; but presents en- 
 tirely different features. 
 
 Perry was not only free from blame, as it respects 
 the challenge, but he consented to the meeting, on- 
 ly upon the principle that he should not return 
 
OLIVER H. i^ERRY* 2B7 
 
 the fire of his antagonist. The meeting therefore 
 wanted one of the essential features of a duel, in 
 which the parttes mutually jeopardise each other's 
 lives ; and not only expose their own, but are liable 
 to stain their hands with the blood of a fellow mortal* 
 
 This is not the place to examine the consequences 
 of this barbarous practice, or the practicability of 
 suppressing it, in the army and navy ; yet we cannot 
 forbear to remark, that it is devoulty to be hoped 
 that Congress will make an effort to accomplish this 
 important object. The last victim to this practicCj 
 the gallant Decatur, the bravest and the noblest of 
 Columbia's sons, whose life was an uninterrupted ca- 
 reer of glory, produced a strong sensation throughout 
 the United States, which it is hoped, may in some 
 measure compensate for the loss the country sus- 
 tained, by occasioning the adoption of such regu- 
 lations in the army and navy, as may prevent the oc- 
 currence of like evils. 
 
 In the summer of 1 8 1 9, Commodore Perry was or* 
 dered on an expedition to South America ; and in the 
 month of June, he sailed from Norfolk, Virginia, with 
 the John Adams ship of war, and the schooner Non° 
 such, for Angostura, on the river Orinoco, the capi- 
 tal of the Venezuelean republic. He arrived at the 
 river Orinoco on the 1 3th of July, having experienced 
 some difficulty in finding its mouth, which is laid down 
 differently in different charts, and not correctly in any 
 in the United States^it being little known in this coun- 
 
■288 LIFE OF 
 
 try; like most of the great rivers in South America, 5 
 the Orinoco has a bar at its mouth, over which ves- 
 sels drawing more than 16 feet of water, cannot pass. 
 Here a pilot was procured, who was brought on board 
 bj the native Indians in their canoes, who were en- 
 tirety naked, and appeared to be a miserable but in- ^ 
 offensive race of beings, greatly inferior to the North ; 
 American Indians. The Nonsuch only, proceeded 
 up the river, the John Adams being left behind. 
 
 The country bordering upon the Orinoco, for 200 
 miles from its mouth is uninhabited, owing to the 
 serious inundations to which it is subjected ; its banks 
 however, are covered with live oak, mahogany, co 
 coa-nut, and various other tropical trees. The coun 
 try further up is covered with forests, the soil very 
 rich, and well adapted to Indian corn, tobacco, and 
 the various tropical productions. The depth of the 
 river was so great, and extending so nearly to the 
 shore, that the Nonsuch was sometimes tied to a 
 tree, when the men could jump ashore on dry lando 
 Before you come to the Spanish settlements, is an 
 Indian village, called Sanchopan, on the left bank 
 of the river, which is represented to be a place of 
 considerable size, and a handsome town, its streets 
 being regularly laid out. Its buildings are construct- 
 ed of clay and palmetto leaves. The Indians, par- 
 ticularly those in the interior, are harmless and in- 
 offensive, fond of rum and tobacco — They have 
 great simplicity of character, and in the interior, are 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 289 
 
 completely in a state of nature. About thirty miles 
 above the Indian town of Sanchopan, is the village 
 of Baranchas, comprising a dozen houses, and was 
 then the rendezvous for the patriot forces on the riv- 
 er, which consisted of four gun boats, each manned 
 with fifty men, and carrying one gun. Here the 
 Nonsuch was boarded by Commodore Padisez, the 
 commander of the station. Farther up the river is 
 Guyana, being one hundred miles below Angostura ; 
 it contains more than fifty houses, which are thatch- 
 ed and painted red. Here there are some fortifica 
 tions ; a fort erected at the foot of the hill, mounting 
 5 guns, and a castle on its summit, with four. Their 
 position is good, and if properly manned and kept 
 in repair, might effectually command the river : but 
 at this time, their situation was such that they might 
 have been taken by an inconsiderable force. The 
 next town up the river, and which is the first below 
 Angostura, is St. Michael, containing about twenty 
 houses, built on a site one mile back from the river« 
 On arriving at Angostura, the Nonsuch fired a salute 
 of 18 guns, to which the town returned tw^enty-one^ 
 Commodore Perry and his suit went ashore, and 
 paid a visit to the Vice-President, who received 
 them with great politeness and attention. 
 
 As this country is rising into importance in a po- 
 litical point of view, and we trust will shortly in a 
 commercial one, every information with respect to 
 it, whether political, geographical or copmercial, 
 25 
 
290 LIFE or 
 
 cannot but be interesting ; more especially as thert 
 is, in general, in the United States, both as to the 
 geography of the country, and its political affairs, a 
 great deficiency of knowledge. This is owing to 
 various causes, but principally to the want of inter- 
 course, which, where it exists, not only serves to 
 furnish information, but to excite and maintain in the 
 public mind, an interest in the affairs of the country 
 with which it subsists. 
 
 Such has been and still is the state of commercial 
 and social intercourse between the United States 
 and the countries in Europe, particularly those of 
 England, France, and some others, that, as it re- 
 spects foreign affairs, the attention of our citizens 
 lias been almost entirely contined to those nations. 
 Most of us take a lively interest, not only in their 
 politics, but in all their concerns. This cannot be a 
 matter of surprise with those who are in the habit of 
 tracing effects to their causes, and who consider that 
 circumstances form the character not only of individ- 
 uals, but of communities. 
 
 As long as a large proportion of our clothing, and 
 of the implements used in the common arts of socie- 
 ty, are the products of European industry, and nu- 
 merous classes of our citizens are employed in im- 
 porting, storing, transporting, vending, and distribu- 
 ting the same, many of whom make fortunes thereby, 
 (but of late it is believed more have lost them,) so 
 long it maj be calculated that the affairs of Europe 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 291 
 
 will, as it respects foreign countries, almost exclu- 
 sively occupy the attention of our citizens. To these 
 causes nnay be added another equally, if not nnore 
 inaportant, than any one which has been noticed ; the 
 importation of literature, or books, which, however, 
 applies more particularly to JEngland. 
 
 From these considerations it cannot be a matter of 
 surprise that many of our citizens are constantly 
 casting their eyes across the Atlantic — And it cannot 
 be a matter of surprise that, with foreign manufac- 
 tures and foreign literature, we have imported many 
 idea.s^ foreign to our republican institutions, and hos- 
 tile to that happy simplicity of manners and of life 
 upon which the preservation of these institutions es- 
 sentially depend. But at the present time the spirit 
 of the country seems to be awaked, and its true inter- 
 ests to be better understood. The want of a foreign 
 market for our bread stuffs, provisions, and other ag- 
 ricultural staples, together with the general distress 
 and impoverishment of the country, from the exces- 
 sive importation of foreign fabrics cannot, it is be- 
 lieved, fail of giving a strong impulse to home manu- 
 factures and industry. 
 
 Among the numerous advantages which will result 
 from this, will be the influence which it cannot fail 
 of having upon the commercial interests of the coun- 
 try. Whatever effects the amount and description 
 of the exports or imports of a country, in the same 
 ratio effects its commercial relations. New exports 
 
.^9t^ LiFE Oi' 
 
 require new markets. The extensioii oi manufac- 
 tiiring industry in the United States, will greatly va- 
 ry the character of its exports and imports, and con- 
 sequently essentially effect its commercial relations; 
 and the independence of the several provinces of 
 South America, which, as it respects the commercial 
 world, is like the creation of a new continent, will 
 eontribute largely to the same result. If the newly 
 established governments in South America maintain 
 their independence, of which now we have no appre- 
 bensions, there can be no doubt but that our com- 
 mercial relations with that country will become im- 
 portant. But it is not merely commercial relations 
 which we ought to contemplate to maintain with 
 South America. These two continents of the new 
 world, being alike remote from, and no way concern- 
 ed in, the politics of Europe, from whence proceed 
 their numerous wars ; enjoying the blessings of a 
 free government, and being alike interested in de- 
 fending the fundamental principles of civil liberty 
 and the rights of man, ought to cultivate and main- 
 tain the most cordial and friendly political relations. 
 Both commercial and political considerations, there- 
 fore, render it important for the citizens of the United 
 States to acquaint themselves with the country and 
 the political affairs of South America. But the na- 
 ture of this work, if we possessed the materials, 
 would not admit of our going into this subject. We 
 win. however, give a concise view of the river Ori- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 293 
 
 noco, and the country bordering upon it, and a briel 
 notice of some of the heading political events of the 
 Republic of Venezeula. 
 
 The Orinoco is a river of great extent and nnagni- 
 tude, being, as it respects the rivers of South Arner- 
 ica, inferior in point of size only to the majestic riv- 
 ers Amazon and La Plate. It has its sources in the 
 neighbourhood of the Andes, and after running about 
 1200 miles in a north-easterly direction, discharges 
 its wa^^ers into the Atlantic, at about nine degrees 
 north latitude, forming one of the most extensive and 
 fertile vallies in the world. This interesting vale, 
 comprises immense tracts of alluvial, affording ex- 
 tensive resources for agricultural and commercial 
 opulence, which, however, in a great measure re- 
 main to be developed. The Orinoco possesses al- 
 most unrivalled navigable advantages, sloops ascen- 
 ding as far up as Angostura, more than 300 miles from 
 its mouth, and smaller vessels and boats several hun- 
 dred miles farther. The most extraordinary chaiac- 
 teristic of this river, is its astonishing inundations^ 
 which almost stagger belief. These inundations ex- 
 tend 600 miles from the mouth of tlie river, and are 
 said to cover a district of country from sixty to ninety 
 miles in width. For 200 miles from the mouth of 
 the river, the country is so generally level, that the 
 inundations render it uninhabitable ; but further up 
 there are elevated sections which avoid the inunda- 
 tions. Those astonishing freshets, during which the 
 
294 
 
 LIFE OF 
 
 river becomes a vast inland sea, usually commence 
 in April, and continue to August. They are most 
 extensive above Angostura. The borders of the 
 river, like those of the Nile, being inundated for this 
 lengtliy period, acquire an iijexhaustible fertility. — 
 The country lying on the south of the Orinoco, has 
 heretofore been denominated Spanish Guvana, and 
 is of great extent, being nearly 1200 miles in length, 
 and between two and three hundred miles in breadth, 
 and altliough extremely fertile, and possessing an 
 admirable climate, it has a population of only about 
 34,000 souls. This fertile and intercsling country 
 was a Spanish Province, attacfhed to the Captain 
 Generalship of Carraccas, until 1817, when it was 
 conquered and emancipated by the patriotic Bol- 
 iver, the Washington of South America. It has 
 since been annexed to the Republic of Venezula, 
 which for nine years, has maintained a desperate 
 •ind apparently unequal contest, with the most des- 
 potic and sanguinary government that ever disgraced 
 the page of history, for the defence of its rights and 
 mdependence. Since the emancipation of Guyana, 
 its capital, Angostura has been the seat of govern- 
 ment of the Venezeulean Republic, and seems destin- 
 ed to become the cradle of the Independence of 
 Venezula and New-Granada, as at this place the in- 
 defatigable Boliver has concentrated, and thence led 
 forth his hardy bands, consisting of natives and for- 
 eigners, who, from a spirit of adventure or patriot- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 295 
 
 ism, embarked in the cause of the South American 
 patriots, to the relief of his distressed brethren, and 
 to put down the authority of Spain ; and hath final- 
 ]y, by a perseverance ahnost unexampled, and the 
 smiles of Providence, succeeded in rescuing a large 
 portion of the country from the tyrannical colonial 
 dominion of Spain, and from the capricious and arbi- 
 trary power of that sanguinary monster, the ruthless 
 and blood-stained Morillo. 
 
 Angostura is situated on the left bank of the riv- 
 er, more than 300 miles from the sea, and at the 
 head of sloop navigation, having for its site the de- 
 clivity of a hill. It is built of brick, the houses being 
 one story high, with tiled roofs and wooden gratings, 
 instead of pancd windows, the mildness of the cli- 
 mate rendering it unnecessary to make any provis- 
 ion for the cold. The town contains about 10,000 
 inhabitants, a considerable proportion of which are 
 Creoles, and the residue Spaniards and Europeans. 
 Since the place has been in the possession of the 
 Patriots, in consequence of the war in which the 
 country is engaged, its commerce has considerably 
 declined. What there is, is carried on chiefly with 
 the West-Indias. The exports consist of mules, 
 cattle, hides, tallow, jerked beef, &c., and the im- 
 ports, of dry goods and groceries of every descrip- 
 tion. 
 
 From the extensive and fertile country which 
 communicates with Aogostura, and from the facility 
 
296 LIFE OF 
 
 of its intercourse with the West-Indies and the At- 
 lantic, it cannot fail, with the blessings of peace and 
 a good government, of becoming a great and flour- 
 ishing commercial town. There is a great want of 
 enterprising merchants, and of commercial capital. 
 At the time the Nonsuch was there, goods of every 
 description were extremely high ; flour commanded 
 twenty dollars per barrel. The vast regions of alhi- 
 vial, serve as pastures after the freshets subside, for 
 the immense droves of wild cattle with which the 
 country abound?. The hunting and catchirjg wild 
 cattle and mules, is a trade, and those engaged in it 
 become astonishingly expert horsemen. The cattle 
 of the country arc very large and the horses beauti- 
 ful animals. 
 
 In 1811, a considera])le proportion of the country 
 which is now called Venezeula, threw oiTthe Spanish 
 yoke and declared itself independent, which, with 
 considerable difliculty, it maintained until 1815, pre- 
 viously to which a spirit of revolution and resistance 
 to Spanish colonial despotism, had extended to the 
 adjoining Province of New-Granada. In 1815 and 
 1816, a considerable part, both of Venezeula and 
 New-Granada, was reconquered by the Spanish Gen- 
 eral Morillo. In 1817 the spirit of independence 
 disclosed itself again, with a more extensive impulse 
 and effect, and the following year a systematic re- 
 publican government was established at Angostura, 
 with Boliver at its head, being President and Com. 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. i97 
 
 Viiander in Chief of the armies of the Republic, — ■ 
 Since that period, a regular government has been 
 maintained and duly administered, to which the gov- 
 ernment of the United States have sent several mis- 
 sions, one in 1818, and that of Commodore Perry in 
 1819, here noticed. 
 
 Perry, as we have already suggested, was receiv- 
 ed with great attention at Angostura. On the 14th 
 August, a few days after his arrival, he, with all the 
 officers of the Nonsuch, received an invitation to 
 dine with the Vice-President. The following days 
 being Sunday, the new Constitution of the Republic 
 was adopted and signed, amidst the discharge of can- 
 eon. Its principles are more energetic, and its pro- 
 visions more aristocratical than those of the Constitu- 
 tion of the United States, although not more so, per- 
 haps, than the condition of the country required. — 
 The naval force of the Republic at that time was 
 about twenty vessels, consisting of brigs, schooners 
 and gun boats. 
 
 Commodore Perry adjusted his business with the 
 Venezeulean government to his entire satisfaction, 
 when he proceeded down the river in a tender, the 
 schooner Nonsuch having previously gone down. 
 He was in good health when he left Angostura, but 
 received a slight attack of a fever at the bar of the 
 river. Here he embarked on board the schooner 
 Nonsuch, which proceeded for Port Spain, in the 
 island of Trinidad, whither the John Adams had pre-^ 
 
298 LIFE OP 
 
 vioasly gone. After Commodore Perry entered on 
 board the Nonsuch, his fever rapidly increased, and 
 notwithstanding the greatest exertions were made to 
 shorten the voyage and hasten his arrival at Port 
 Spain, where every assistance could have been pro- 
 cured, and every convenience enjoyed, they were 
 upwards of five days on the passage. As soon as the 
 Nonsuch anchored in the gulf, at which time the fe- 
 ver had arrived to an alarming crisis. Perry was re- 
 moved to the John Adams, and in a quarter of an hour 
 he expired, on the evening of the 23d of August, 
 1819, aged 34 years. — Thus fell the gallant Perry, a 
 victim to the relentless hand of disease, ere the me- 
 ridian of his age, and before his well earned laurels 
 had scarcely bloomed upon his brows — leaving his 
 country in tears, and a reputation which shall trans- 
 mit his name to the latest posterity. Although he 
 fell in a foreign land, and among the inhabitants of a 
 country with which his own had recentl} been engaged 
 in war, and by the defeat and capture of whose na- 
 val forces on lake Erie, he had acquired his exalted 
 reputation, his death made a serious impression, and 
 his remains received the honour due to his rank and 
 character. — It was the intention of the officers to 
 have conveyed the body to the United States, but 
 the surgeon iDformed them that it was impractica- 
 ble. Accordingly on the following day it was com- 
 mitted to the grave with every markof attention and 
 respect ori' the part of the civil and military authori- 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 299 
 
 ties, and the inhabitants of the town. At 4 o'clock, 
 P. M. the 3d West-India regiment was marched to 
 the King's wharf to receive the corps, and about ^ 
 o'clock the boat with the body left the John Adams, 
 that ship firing minute guns until it arrived at the 
 wharf, when the firing of minute guns was commenc- 
 ed by fort St. Andrews, which were continued until 
 the procession reached the place of interment. The 
 following was the order of procession : 
 
 Chief of Police and his Deputy. 
 
 The 3d West-India regimeut, with arms reversed, the officers 
 
 with white scarfs and hat-bands. 
 
 The band of th^ regiment, playing the dead march in Saul. 
 
 The Commandant of the garrison and his stafif, with scarfs anc8 
 
 hat-b^nds. 
 
 ilcaids of Barios. 
 Three officers 
 on horseback 
 as Bearers. 
 
 O 
 
 Alcaids of Barios. 
 Three officers 
 on horseback, 
 as Bearers. 
 
 Chief \lonrners. 
 
 The Officers of the John i4 dams and Nonsuch, two and two, 
 
 A great number of respectable inhabiiants, as Mourners, two 
 
 and two. 
 
 One hundred and twenty men of the crews of the John Adams 
 
 gnd Notisiich, two and two. 
 
 On arriving at the entrance of the burying ground, 
 the troops filed off and formed a line for the proces- 
 sion to pass through. The funeral service was per- 
 formed by the Rev. Mr. Clapham, in a solemn and 
 impressive manner ; and after the remains were com- 
 
300 LIFE OF 
 
 mitted to their final repository, the troops fired three 
 vollies of musketry in the usual manner. The occa- 
 sion was solemn and impressive — All were sensibly 
 affected, and retired with every mark of sympathetic 
 grief, for the premature death of a distinguished and 
 excellent officer, and a brave and victorious man. 
 
 Commodore Ferry Trained his faculties to the lastj 
 was composed and resigned, and submitted to his fate 
 with great resolution and fortitude, dying as he had 
 lived — as became a great and good man. — He left 
 a widow and four young children, three sons and an 
 infant daughter, to lament the sudden and early death 
 of the best of husbands and parents. His widow was 
 Miss Elizabeth Mason, daughter of Dr. Mason of 
 Newport, to whom he was married in 183 0, 
 
 m 
 
-JLIVETI H^ PERRY. 
 
 CHAPTER VIIL 
 
 G'F,r„eral remarks on the human chiiracier — the character ofPer^ 
 cfji — fiis public career—his personal services in the action upon 
 lake Erie—his humanity after the victory— his patriotism and 
 devotion to the service — his death regarded as a public calami- 
 ty—public demonstrations of sorrcrv—the immortality^ of his 
 fame. 
 
 We have now completed the history of Perry, 
 having, and it is hoped with some degree of accuracy, 
 traced his public course, from his first entering into 
 the service of his country, to the summit of his glo- 
 ry, and from thence to that scene where " human 
 greatness ends." It only remains to make some re- 
 marks upon his character, and to notice the effect 
 which his death occasioned. 
 
 There is, perhaps, no subject involving more dif- 
 ficulty than that of a delineation oftndividual charac- 
 ter. This is owing to various considerations, but 
 principally to the want of fixed and permanent charac- 
 teristics ; to the nice and indistinct discriminations as 
 to the faculties of the mind, and qualities of the heart ; 
 to the strange union of intellectual and moral quali- 
 ties, essentially different and often diametrically op- 
 posite, and to the influence of circumstances, which 
 
 26 
 
302 LIFE OF 
 
 in their nature are unstable and varying, upon the 
 moral, social, and intellectual character of man. — ■ 
 Not only the nice and delicate, but often the most 
 prominent features of the human character, from their 
 relations to others, and the neutralizing influence of 
 opposing characteristics, are confused and indistinct 
 in their identity, and equivocal in their character. 
 The field of intellect is unlike that of nature. There, 
 the indications of a rich or a sterile soil are far from 
 being conspicuous or uniform ; and instead of a reg- 
 ular connection of blossom and fruit, it is most fre° 
 quently the case that where we behold the richest 
 verdure and the most interesting variety of flowers, 
 the soil is least capable of sustaining vegetation, and 
 of bringing its rich fruits to maturity. There, the 
 vigorous germs, disclosed by the spring, and which 
 promise an abundant harvest, are often blighted 
 without frost or drought, and languish and decline, 
 apparently for the want of that strength of soil, the 
 existence of which their premature growth seemed to 
 indicate. Where the understanding appears the 
 most sound and discriminating, we are often con- 
 strained to witness the most striking indiscretions and 
 the most palpable aberrations cf judgment. Where 
 the passions appear to be most happily attempered, 
 and when undisturbed produce the most harmonious 
 results, it sometimes happens that these " elements 
 of our life" are most easily agitated, and when they 
 are, disclose a pecuhar violeoce. Where we find a 
 
OLIVER H. PERRY. 303 
 
 heart the most humane and benevolent, it freqnent- 
 \y occurs that its sympathies are excited by the 
 most unworthy objects ; and where there are the 
 strongest moral feelings, and the greatest abhorrence 
 of vice, wo too often find a spirit of illiberality, and 
 the most odious and unworthy prejjjdices. 
 
 Where there are no extraordinary qualities of the 
 head or heart, it is a common idea, that a man cannot 
 be considered as great, or as having any claims to 
 admiration. Nothing can be more incorrect than this. 
 To excel greatly in any one thing, is generally to be 
 deficient in many others. A good poet is seldom a 
 good mathematician, and vice versa ; excentricities 
 are often mistaken for genius. The possession of an 
 extraordinary talent, or virtue, frequently seems to 
 impair all others, and to destroy that balance of fac- 
 ulties, and that harmony of feeling and of sentiment, 
 which are so essential to the human character. But 
 what is a greater obstacle with those who attach great 
 importance to extraordinary qualities, is the charac- 
 teristic limits which are prescribed to all human pow- 
 ers and virtues. The boundaries between different 
 qualities of mind, and between the moral virtues, be- 
 come indistinct in the same ratio in which you ap- 
 proximate to the extremes, and finally disappear — 
 their characteristic qualities being entirely lost. 
 Great courage is nearly allied to temerity ; generos- 
 ity to profusion; firmness to obstinacy; excess of 
 zeal, degenerates to intolerance and persecution ; of 
 
304 LILE OP 
 
 friendship to favouritism ; of caution to timiciit}' ; ot 
 benevolence to weakness ; avarice often arises froni 
 indulging a little too far, a just regard to one's own 
 interests, and ambition frequently proceeds from pat- 
 riotism, the purest of all virtues. It is true, that a 
 character, possessed of extraordinary qualities, and 
 marked by striking eccentricities, may excite our ad- 
 miration, but cannot claim our profound respect* 
 We may admire those we cannot esteemi, and whom 
 we would much less wish to imitate. The most " per- 
 fect character." is that which excites the most lively 
 and striking ideas of utility. In such a character, 
 we are not to look for a single prominent feature, 
 which destroys the proper ballance of intellect ; we 
 are not surprised by those meteor-like qualities, which 
 shine with a portentous brilliancy. No single cha= 
 racteristic forcibly attracts our attention, but the en- 
 tire character excites our admiration and esteem. On 
 contemplating such a character, the mind is imper- 
 ceptibly lost in rei-pect and admiration. The view 
 presents no striking features ; no intellectual pro- 
 montories, nor deepening glens, which surprise at 
 first, and then cease to attract attention ; but it is 
 more like a regular landscape, having sufficient va= 
 riety to please, with that richness of verdure, and 
 luxuriancy of soil which excites our esteem, without 
 occasioning surprise, and which, the more it is con- 
 templated, the more it is admired. It takes time to 
 deveiope the resources $ind virtues of a character of 
 
OLIVER H. PERRV. 305 
 
 this description ; like the precious metals, the more 
 it is used the brighter it appears, and the more hi2:hly 
 it is appreciated. Such was the character of 0/?T'er 
 Hazard Perry ^ distinguished by no prominent fea- 
 tures, by no pre-eminent characteristics, he challen- 
 ged the admiration and esteem of all who knew him. 
 He possessed an excellent understanding, an uncom- 
 mon share of prudence, and a mind alike capable of 
 reflection and of activity, rendering him peculiarly 
 qualitied for great and heroic achievements. From 
 his comprehensive views, his acute sagacity, and the 
 justness of his combinations, his decisions were al- 
 ways prompt and judicious. His deportment, both 
 in his public and private relations, was peculiarly 
 amiable and unassuming. Conscious of his abilities 
 and worth, he was apparently unconcerned about his 
 own reputation, and only anxious that justice should 
 be done to the merits of others. He was one of the 
 {q.\y with whom the character of the man was not lost 
 in that of the hero. " The rays of glory which were 
 collected on his brow, shot no envious gleams to daz» 
 zle and subdue, but diffused a moonlight serenity 
 mild and tender, which led to confidence and ended 
 in affection. Ho wore his laurels with a modesty so 
 sincere and unaffected, that of all men, he appeared 
 the most ignorant of their existence, or of the mighty 
 and unanswerable claim he had put in for immortali 
 iy." But however we may respect the virtues of 
 (he man^ it is the public officer and hero, which chal- 
 
 26^ 
 
^^'^ LIFE OF 
 
 lenge our admiration. The public career of Com- 
 modore Perry was one of peculiar merit and brillian- 
 cv, and will long remain an illustrious example, 
 which, whilst it will receive the admiration of all, 
 will impart the breath of inspiration to the future na- 
 val heroes of his country. His course was not like 
 the irregular orbit, nor his brilliancy like the omin- 
 ous flashes of the meteor, which appears as a stran- 
 ger in our system ; but more resembled the regular 
 revolution, and the steady blaze of a star of the tirst 
 magnitude. Whether in a humble or an exalted sta- 
 tion, in prosperity or adversity, whether encounter- 
 ing the elements, and his barque wrecked upon the 
 tempestuous surge, or riding triumphant, after victo- 
 ry and the conquest of the enemies of his country, 
 whether in the '• fury of the fight," or in the calm 
 which ensues, consecrated to humanity, the admira- 
 ble qualities of his character appear conspicuous , 
 he is equally cool, resolute, brave and humane. 
 
 We do not wish in this place to advert to the bat- 
 de of lake Erie, but as we have not done it elsewhere 
 justice requires that we should make a few remarks 
 which intimately concern the iridividual services and 
 merit of Perry on that memorable occasion. From 
 the general character and result of that action, it can- 
 not fail of being ranked among the most splendid 
 achievements of the age ; but there are some cir- 
 cumstances attending it which are without any ex- 
 ample, aod which tend greatly to swell the fame of 
 
Oliver h. perry. 307 
 
 the hero of it, and to brighten the lustre of his repu- 
 tation. There have been victories of greater magni- 
 tude, where a larger aggregate offerees have been 
 engaged, where the means of destruction have been 
 on a larger scale, and where there has been an am- 
 pler flow of blood ; but neither the pages of ancient 
 or modern history, record a victory which depended 
 in so eminent a degree, upon the valour and exer- 
 tions of the successful commander ; where the wis- 
 dom of his designs, and the valour, skill, and impor= 
 tance of his personal services appear so conspicuous, 
 and are so intimately connected with the issue of the 
 contest 5 where, in fine, all attendant circumstances 
 combined to give him so prominent and commanding 
 a station, and to stamp upon him the character of a 
 hero. It is a circumstance that ought never to be 
 forgotten, as shewing the high estimation in which 
 Perry was then held by the government, and the crit=- 
 leal situation in which he was placed, that the Navy 
 Department confided to him the vast responsibility 
 of determining when the contest for supremacy upon 
 the lake, upon which not only the honour of our flag 
 but the whole operations of the war upon that frontier, 
 and the security of an extensive border depended, 
 should be brought to a decision. But not only did 
 the period of time as to when the action was to be 
 fought, depend upon his judgment, but hkewise that 
 *' critical moment" when by a measure equally nov- 
 el and bold, he decided the issue of the contest. It 
 
308 LIFE OF 
 
 was at this momentous crisis, that it might be more 
 emphatically said, he "me/ the enemy and they zuere 
 oizr^." But his bravery, skill, activity and prompt 
 decision in action, were not more conspicuous than 
 his humanity and magnanimity in victory. With the 
 expiring note of the enemy's cannon, every act of 
 hostility ceased, and the grim visage of war was suc- 
 ceeded by the mild aspect of a benignant philanthro- 
 py. Perry, forgetful that he was a conqueror, and 
 that the British were enemies, animated by the no- 
 blest sentiments of humanity, approached the couch 
 of agony and dispair, and by the most kind and sym- 
 pathetic treatment, attempted to staunch the wounds 
 and solace the feelings of the sufferers whom the for- 
 tune of war had placed in his hands. The wounded 
 and bleeding Barclay, from defeat and despair, more 
 agonized in his feelings, than from his wounds, was 
 astonished at the magnanimity of the American hero ; 
 and at being saluted, not by the voice of a conqueror 
 with a countenance irradiated by the blaze of victo- 
 ry, but by the mild and consoling accents of kindness 
 and condolence. 
 
 In noticing the public character of Commore Per- 
 ry, we should do injustice to his memory not to ad- 
 vert to his extraordinary devotion to the fiorvice in 
 which he was engaged, and of which he was the 
 brightest ornament, and to that distinguished patriot- 
 ism which characterised his whole public career, and 
 which gave an impulse to those astonishing efforts 
 
OLIVER n. PERRV. 309 
 
 of bravery and skill, to which we are indebted for 
 one of the most splendid achievements in the annals 
 of our country. 
 
 Although the victory to which we have alluded, 
 depended less upon accidental and fortuitous cir- 
 cumstances, than almost any other recorded in histo- 
 ry, yet it may be said, and perhaps with justice, that 
 Perry was in some measure indebted to fortune for 
 his distinguished reputation. He was fortunate in 
 having an opportunity to display his great abilitieSj 
 which no difficulties could discourage, and his cool 
 intrepidity, which no dangers could appal. But 
 who ever acquired immortal fame, that was not in 
 some measure indebted to fortune ; and how many 
 are there who now live in the page of history, whose 
 reputation, and whose immortality, was almost en- 
 tirely the result of fortune, and of circumstances for** 
 eign to their own merits, talents or services. How 
 many are borne upon the tide of time, whose fame a 
 *' breath could ruin as a breath had made." 
 
 The reputation of Perry was the result of his own 
 merit and achievements. How unlike those, falsely 
 styled great, who bask in the sunshine of Princes' ta= 
 vours, and live upon their smiles. The laurels which 
 bloomed upon his brows, were won by his own val- 
 our, and the magnificent column of his fame, wiiich 
 will endure for ages after the monumental marble 
 shall have crumbled into dust, was raised by his con- 
 summate prowess aad skill. As his services were de 
 
310 LIFE OF 
 
 voted to his country, he left her an inheritance in his 
 reputation and example. His fame has become the 
 property of his country; his achievements interwo- 
 ven in the tissue of her history ; his renown her 
 greatest glory — his example her undying instruction. 
 His death, which was equally glorious with his life, 
 his characteristic firmness, resolution and presence 
 of mind having remained to the last, was justly regard- 
 ed as a national calamity. Considering him only in 
 the light of a hero, there is one circumstance which 
 might have added to the glory of his character — his 
 h:iving, like Nelson, died in battle, and his pure spir- 
 it taking its flight in the moment of victory. But if 
 we contemplate him as a man and a philosopher, we 
 shall see more to admire in his death in the manner 
 in which it happened. The hero, who is accustomed 
 to view the approach of the ' king of terrors,' clothed 
 in the gorgeous trappings of war, and surrounded with 
 its grand, hut terrific pomp and splendour, frequent- 
 ly wants that patient resignation, and that cool phi- 
 losophy, which are requisite to meet this last enemy, 
 when, in the odious character of disease, with listless 
 stillness and unseen, he makes his slow approaches, 
 unattended with any circumstances calculated to 
 give a buoyancy to the spirit, or sustain the soul. — 
 But although such was the "closing scene'' of our 
 hero, his great abilities and his steady bravery did 
 not forsake^him : he died as he had lived — as became 
 a great and good man,— That the fall of a man so 
 
OLIVER M. i^ERRY. 311 
 
 pre-eminently distinguished and useful, in the spring- 
 tide of life, which promised a long career of useful- 
 ness and glory, of fresh honours and distinctions, of 
 new acts of bravery and patriotism, and laurels ufa 
 more brilliant and unfading lustre, should have been 
 considered as a national calamity, cannot be a sub- 
 ject of surprise. All felt it such ; all participated in 
 the general sorrow, and a nation's tears bedewed the 
 hallowed urn of her favourite son. It is believed 
 that in the records of mortality, no other event since 
 the demise of General Washington, in 1 799, occasion- 
 ed such general sensations of sorrow and regret — sue h 
 universal and lively sympathy. In addition to the 
 usual demonstrations of respect to the memory of dis- 
 tinguished public oflScers, proceeding from the na- 
 tional authorities, in most of the large cities and towns 
 throughout the country, the public feeling disclosed 
 itself by corresponding testimonials of sorrow. It 
 was not merely the external drapery of mourning, but 
 the expression of a lively sentiment of grief and re- 
 gret, for the illustrious dead — a gallant and youthful 
 hero, who was scarcely more distinguished by his he- 
 roic achievements, than by the manly graces and vir- 
 tues that adorned his character. In several of the 
 states, the constituted authorities adopted resolu- 
 tions expressive of their high estimation of his impor- 
 tant services and distinguished reputation, and of the 
 sense which they entertained of the irreparable loss 
 the country had sustained in his death, and of its ob- 
 
312 LIFE OF 
 
 ligations to perpetuate its gratitude to his memory.— 
 Among the states whose legislatures adopted resolu- 
 tions in honour of the memory of Perry, were Rhode- 
 Island, his native state, and South-Carolina. 
 
 Neither were the national authorities wanting, in 
 the expression of their respect. At the opening of 
 the session of Congress, which followed his death, 
 the President of the United States noticed that event 
 in his message to Congress, as a public loss, and a 
 calamity to the country j and during the session, a 
 resolution was introduced relating to this subject, 
 l?hich was followed by a bill, providing for the sup- 
 port of his bereaved widow, and the education of his 
 <:hildren at the public expense ; which, it is presum- 
 ed, will become a law, in its present shape, or with 
 some modifications. In this country, the maxim, 
 that *' a nation's gratitude is the heroh best reivard,^^ 
 is more emphatically true, and more happily exem- 
 plified, than in most others. Here, no titles, digni- 
 ties and estates are conferred, and no honours, but 
 the spontaneous expressions of public and private ad- 
 miration and gratitude. Here, public opinion is the 
 only standard of merit, and the sole arbitress of pub- 
 lic honours. This is a tribunal which corruption 
 cannot reach, favouptism assail, nor power control ; 
 and which, if at times it is influenced by passion and 
 prejudice, in the end never fails to award the meed 
 of praise, where it is due. When slanderous tongues, 
 and malevolent hearts assail the hero's '* fair fame,'* 
 
OLIVER H. fERRY, ^i 1 S 
 
 and tke viperous stings of envy poison the life-blood 
 cf his reputation ; when from a spijji* of faction, or 
 of prejudice, his achievements or renown are im- 
 puted to him as crimes, and w^hen unprincipled de- 
 magogues conspire to immolate the great and the 
 good, at the shrine of their ambition, then, indeed, is 
 public opinion no longer a standard of merit, or a tri- 
 bunal of justice. But the storms of passion, like 
 those of the elements, do not last long, and when the 
 clouds which darken the reputation of the hero or 
 the patriot, disappear, it shines with a brighter lus- 
 tre — And when this event does not take place before? 
 it follows the setting sun of his earthly glory. There 
 is a consecrating influence in the grave which gives 
 a consummation to the character of the great. Their 
 virtues then shine with a more steady lustre. No 
 speck nor cloud obscures the azure space sacred to 
 memories. Although Perry was universally admir- 
 ed and beloved during his life, he was adored at his 
 death ; and his country appeared never until then^ 
 to have duly appreciated his worth, or to have been 
 sensible of the vast debt of gratitude which slie owed 
 him. His illustrious name, wbich 
 
 " Long sliall blaze an iniextingcii^hM ray, 
 A mighty beacou lij^hting glory's way," 
 
 will never cease to bo revered by his country ; and 
 in future times, when an enlightened population;, 
 commensurate with the extent of its territory, shall 
 enliven its bosom, overspreading the vast region? of 
 
 27 
 
314 LIFE OF PERRY. 
 
 4 
 
 the west, where now the solitary savage roams, and 
 carrying the blessings of civilization to the shores of 
 the Pacific ; when its vast resources shall be devel- 
 oped by the hand of industry and the arts ; when its 
 free institutions, free press, and free suffrage, shall 
 have raised it to that exalted destiny which awaits it ; 
 when its power shall be hmited only by its justice, 
 and when its navy, having " grown with its growth 
 and strengthened with its strength," shall provoke a 
 contest for the dominion of the ocean, then will the 
 laurels of Perry, instead of having faded by the waste 
 of time, assume a brighter lustre — then shall his 
 name be canonized, his memory adored, and his ex- 
 ample inspire thousands of the future naval heroes 
 of his country to deeds of patriotic heroism and im- 
 mortal renown. — Such being the gratitude of our 
 country, and the immortality of her heroes, they need 
 oot the moulding marble's aid, nor the sculptor's art : 
 
 " How vain the mere iuscripllon 
 Debauch'd on any tomb ; on every grave 
 A lying trophy ; and as oft is dumb. 
 Where dust and dark oblivion is the tomb 
 Of houour'd bones indeed." 
 
 Sdakespeare. 
 
APPENDIX 
 
 BIOGRAPHY 
 
 OF 
 
 BRIG- GEN. ZEBULON M. TIKE 
 
 Zebulon Montgomery Pike was born at Lam- 
 berton, in the state of New- Jersey, January 5th, 1779. 
 His father was a respectable otiicer in the army of the 
 United States. His family had for several gesiera- 
 tions resided in New-Jersey, and were descended 
 from a Captain John Pike, whose name is preserved 
 hy tradition as having been a gallant and distinguish- 
 ed soldier in the early Indian wars of the colony. 
 He entered the army while yet a boy, an^^ served for 
 some time as a cadet in his father's company, which 
 was then stationed on the western frontiers of the 
 United States. At an early age he obtained the 
 comtnission of ensign, and some time aft* r, that of 
 lieutenant in the 1st regiment of infantry. He was 
 thns almost from his cradle, trained to the habits of 
 a military life ; bat he did not, like most of the 
 peaceful veterans of the barracks and the parade, 
 while away his days in inactivity, contented with the 
 mechanical routine of military duty. By a life of 
 
313 BIOGRAPHY OF 
 
 constant activity and exposure, he invigorated his 
 constitution, and prepared himself for deeds of har- 
 dihood and adventure. At the same tiwe he endea- 
 voiired to supply the deticiency of his early educa- 
 tion hy most ardent, though, probably, often desulto- 
 ry and ill-re,;((ilated application to every branch of 
 useful kiiowleds^e. lie had entered the army with 
 no otlur education than such is afforded by the most 
 ordiiiary vilhage scIjooI — reading, writing, and a lit- 
 tle arithmetic. By his own solitary exertions he ac- 
 quired, almost without the aid of a master, the 
 French and i.atin languages, the former of which, it 
 appears from his journal, he was able to write and 
 speak wiih sufficient accuracy for all the purposes of 
 business ; to these he afterwards added a competent 
 knowledge of the Spanish. Re also studied the el- 
 omer>tary branches of mathematics, and became very 
 conversant and even skilful in all the ordinary prac- 
 tical applications of that science. He seems, besides 
 (o have had a general curiosity, to which no kind of 
 knowiediie was without interest. He read with avid- 
 ity every book which fell in his way, and thus, with- 
 out any regular plan of study, acquired a considera- 
 ble stock of various information, and some tincture 
 of popular English literature. In most of these iite- 
 lary acquirements. Pike scarcely attained to the ac- 
 curacy of tne scholar, but they were such as became 
 the gentleman, and elevated and adorned the char- 
 acter of the soldier. Nor were these studies direct- 
 ed solely to the irnprovemeiit of the mind ; he en- 
 deavoured to make them subservient to a much high- 
 er end. From his youth he sedulously cultivated in 
 himselfa generous spirit of chivalry ; not that punc- 
 tilious and barren honour which cheaply satisfies it- 
 self with the reputation of personal courage and free- 
 dom from disreputable vice, but the chivalry of the 
 
ZEBULON M. PIKE. 31^ 
 
 ancient school of European honour — that habit of 
 manly and virtuous sentiment, that spirit of patriot- 
 ism and self-devotion, which, while it roots out from 
 the heart every other weakness of natijre, spares and 
 cherishes '^ that last infirmity of noble minds," the 
 love of glory, and in every great emergency in which 
 man may be called upon to act, sends him forth into 
 the service of his country or his kind, at once obey- 
 ing the commands of duty, and elevated and anima- 
 ted by the warm impulse of eiUhusiastic feeling. 
 
 Among other habits of mental discipline by which- 
 Pike was accustomed to cherish these principles and 
 feelings, was a constant practice of inserting upon 
 the blank pages of some favourite volume, such 
 striking maxims of morality, or sentiments ofhonoufj 
 as occurred in his reading, or were suggested by his 
 own reflections. He had been in the practice of 
 making use of a small edition of Dodsley's " Econo- 
 my of Human Lit'b," for this purpose. Soon after 
 bis marriage, he presented this volume to his wife, 
 who still preserves it as one of the most precious me- 
 morials of her husband's virtues. An extract from 
 one of the manuscript pages of this volume was pub- 
 lished in a periodical work soon after his death. It 
 was written as a continuation of the article '• Sincer« 
 ity," and is strongly characteristic of the author. 
 
 " Should my country call for the sacrifice of that 
 life which has been devoted to her service from ear^ 
 ]y youth, noost willingly shall she receive it. The sod 
 which covers the brave shall be moistened by the 
 tears of love and friendship 5 but if I fall far from my 
 friends and from you, my Clara, remember that ' the 
 choisest tears which are ever shed, are those which 
 bedew the unburicd head of the soldier,' and when 
 these lines shall meet the eyes of our young ******-j 
 let the pages of this little book be impressed on his 
 
320 BIOGRAPHY OF 
 
 mind as the e;Ift of a father who had nothing to be- 
 queath but his honour, and let these maxims be ever 
 present to his miiid as he rises from jouth to man- 
 hood : 
 
 " 1. Preserve jour honour free from blemish. 
 
 " 2. Be always ready to die for your coui\try. 
 
 Z. M. Pike. 
 
 '' Kaskasias, Indiana Territory." 
 
 Thus i^ifted with a lofty spirit of honour, and a.n 
 iron constitution, Pike presents to the imagination 
 no imperfect resemblance of one of the cavaliers of 
 the sixteenth century, the hardy, steel-clad compan- 
 ions of Bayard and Sidney. 
 
 In March 1801, he married Miss Clarissa Brown, 
 of Cincinnati, in the state of Kentucky. By this 
 marriage he had several children, only one of whom, 
 a dausjhter survives him. 
 
 On the old peace establishment of our army, then 
 composr-d only of a few regiments, and employed al- 
 together in garrisoning a few frontier posts, promo- 
 tion was slow, and the field of action limited and ob- 
 scure. For several years Lieutenant Pike, panted 
 in vain for an opportunity of gratifying thnt '' all-rul- 
 ing passion" which, to use his own words, "• swayed 
 him irresistibly to the profession of arms, and the 
 pursuits of military glory." 
 
 At length, in 1805, a new career of honourable 
 distinction was opened to this active and aspiring 
 youth. Soon after the purchase of Louisiana, the 
 government of the United States determined upon 
 taking measures to explore their new territorv, and 
 that immense tract of wilderness, included within its 
 limits. Besides ascertaining its geographical boun- 
 daries, it was wished to acquire some knowledge of 
 its soil and natural productions, of the course of its 
 rivess, and their titness for the purposes of navigatioi^ 
 
ZEBULON M. PIKE, 3'2l 
 
 and other uses of civilized life, and also to gain par- 
 ticiilar information of the nunnbers, character, and 
 power of the tribes of Indians who inhabited this ter- 
 ritory, and their several dispositions towards the 
 United States, With these views, vi^hile Captains 
 Lewis and Clarke were sent to explore the unknown 
 sources of the Missouri, Pike was despatched on a 
 similar expedition for the purpose of tracing the Mis- 
 sissippi to its head. 
 
 On the 9th of August, 1805, Pike accordingly em- 
 barked at St. Louis, and proceeded up the Mississip- 
 pi, with twenty men, in a stout boat, provisioned for 
 four months, but they were soon obliged to leave 
 their boat and proceed on their journey by land, or 
 in canoes, which they built after leaving their boat, 
 and carried with them on their march. Pike's own 
 journal has been for some time before the public, 
 and affords a much more satisfactory narrative of the 
 expedition than the narrow hmits of a magazine ar- 
 ticle will allow. For eight months and twenty days 
 this adventurous soldier and his faithful band were 
 almost continually exposed to hardship and peril, de- 
 pending for provisions upon the precarious fortunes 
 of the chase, enduring the most piercing cold, and 
 cheerfully submitting to the most constant and har- 
 rassint; toils. They were sometimes for days to- 
 gether without food, and they frequently slept with- 
 out cover on the bare earth, or the snow, during the 
 bitterest inclemency of a norlhern winter. During 
 this voyage, Pike had no intelligent companion upon 
 whom he could rely for any sort of advice or aid, 
 and he literally performed the duties of astronomer, 
 surveyor, commanding officer, clerk, spy, guide, and 
 hunter, frequently preceding the party for many 
 miles, in order to reconnoitre, or rambling lor whole 
 days in search of deer or other game for provision^ 
 
322 BiOGKAPHY OF 
 
 and then returning to his men in the evening, hun 
 gry and fatigued, he would sit down in the open air, 
 to copy by the light of a fire the notes of his journey, 
 and to plot out the courses of the next day. 
 
 His conduct towards. the Indians was marked with 
 equal good sense, firmness, and humanity ; he every 
 where, without violence or fraud, induced them to 
 submit to the government of the United States, and 
 he made use of the authority of his country to put an 
 end to a savage warfare, which had for many years 
 been carried on with the utmost cruelty and rancour 
 between the Sioux and the Chippeways, two of the 
 most powerful nations of Aborigines remaining on 
 the North American contiiient. He also every where 
 enforced with effect the laws of the United States 
 against supplying the savages with spiritous liquors. 
 Thus, while he wrested their tomahawks from their 
 hands, and compelled them to bury the hatchet, he 
 defended them from their own vices, and in the true 
 spirit of humanity and honour, rejected with disdain 
 that cruel and dastardly policy which seeks the secu- 
 rity of the civilizxd man in the debasement of the 
 savage. 
 
 In addition to the other objerts of Pike's mission, 
 as specifically detailed in his instructions, lie con- 
 ceived that his duty as a soldier required of him an 
 investigation of the views aud conduct of the British 
 traders, within the limits of our jurisdiction, and an 
 enquiry into the exact limits of the territories of the 
 United States and Great-Britain. This duty he per- 
 formed, says the author of a former sketch of his bi- 
 ography, with the boldness of a soldier, and the po- 
 liteness of a gentleman ; he might have justly added, 
 with the disinterestedness of a man of honour, and the 
 ability and discretion of an enlightened politician. 
 He found that the North-west company, by extend- 
 
ZEBULON M. PIKB» 3«3 
 
 ing their establishments and commerce far within the 
 bounds of the United States, and even into the very 
 centre of Louisiana, were thus enabled to introduce 
 their ^oods without duty or licence into our territo- 
 ries, to the very great injury of the revenue, as well 
 as to the complete exclusion of our own countrymen 
 from all competition in this trade. He perceived, 
 besides, that these establishments were made subser- 
 vient to the purposes of obtaining an influence over 
 the savages dangerous to the peace, and injurious to 
 the honour and character of our government ; and he 
 thought it evident, that in case of a rupture between 
 the two powers, all these posts would be used as ral- 
 lying points for the enemy, and as places of deposite 
 for arms to be distributed to the Indians, to'the infi-= 
 nite annoyance, if not total ruin, of all the adjoining 
 territories. 
 
 An opportunity was now presented to him of en- 
 riching himself for life, by merely using the power 
 vested in him by law, and seizing upon the immense 
 property of the company which he found illegally in- 
 troduced within our territory. But having been hos- 
 pitably received at one of their principal posts, his 
 high sense of honour would not permit him to requite 
 their hospitality by a rigorous execution of the laws. 
 It is probable, too, that he thought so violent a mea- 
 sure might lead to collisions between the two govern- 
 ments, without tending to produce any permanent 
 beneficial effect, and he cheerfully sacrificed all views 
 of personal interest to what he conceived to be the 
 true interest and honour of his country. By means 
 of reprimands and threats to the inferior traders, and 
 a frank and spirited remonstrance to the director of 
 the Fond du Lao department, he succeeded in procu- 
 ring a stipulation, that in future no attempts should 
 be made to influence any Indian on pohtical affairS; 
 
324 BIOGRAPHY OF 
 
 or any subjects foreign to trade, and that measures 
 should be immediately taken to prevent the display 
 of the British flag, or any other mark of power, with- 
 in our dominion ; together with a promise that such 
 representations should be immediately made to the | 
 company, and such an arrangement effected with re- I 
 gard to duties, as would hereafter set that question 
 at rest. 
 
 His conduct with regard to this subject was, at the 
 time, viewed with cold approbation, but the events 
 of the present war have borne ample testimony to 
 his sagacity and foresight. 
 
 Within two months after his return from this ex- 
 pedition. Pike was selected by Generil Wilkinson 
 for a second perilous journey of hardship and adven- 
 ture. The principal purpose of this expedition was, 
 like that of the former, to explore the interior of 
 Louisiana. He was directed to embark at St. Louis 
 with the Osage captives, (about forty in number,) who 
 had been rescued from their enemies, the Potowatom- 
 ies, by the interference of our government, and to 
 transport them to the principal village of their na- 
 tion : and he was instructed to take this opportunity 
 to bring about interviews between the ditierent sav- 
 a<Te nations, and to endeavour to assuage animosities, 
 and establish a permanent peace among them. He 
 was, after accomplishing these objects, to continue 
 his route into the interior, and to explore the Missip- 
 pi and its tributary streams, especially the Arkansaw 
 and the Red River, and thus to acquire such geo- 
 graphical information as might enable government 
 to enter into definitive arrangements for a boundary 
 hue petween our newly acquired territory and X»forth 
 Mexico. 
 
 In the course of this second journey, our adven- 
 torou« soldier, after leaving the Osage village, en- 
 
ZBBULON M. PIKEo 32t' 
 
 countered hardships, in comparison of which the se» 
 verities ol his former journey seemed to him ease and 
 luxury. 
 
 Winter overtook the party unprovided with any 
 clothing fit to protect them from cold and storms* 
 Their horses died, and for weeks they were obliged 
 to explore their way on foot through the wilderness, 
 carrying packs of sixty or seventy pounds weight, 
 beside their arms, exposed to the bitterest severity 
 of the cold, relying solely on the produce of the chas€ 
 for subsistence, and often for two or three days alto- 
 gether without food. This part of his journal con- 
 tains a narrative of a series of sufferings sufficient to 
 make the " superfluous and lnst-diet<id" son of luxu- 
 ry shudder at the bare recital. Several of the men 
 had their feet frozen, and all, except Pike, and one 
 other, were in some degree injured by the intensity 
 of the cold. He thus relates the history of two of 
 these dreary days : 
 
 " 18-th January, Sunday. — The doctor and myself^ 
 who 'fortunately were untouched by the frost, went 
 (mt to hunt something to preserve existence ; near 
 evening we wounded a buffalo with three balls, but 
 had the mortification to see him run off notwith- 
 standing. We concluded ihat it was useless to go 
 home to add to the general gloom, and went among 
 some rocks, where we encamped, and sat up all 
 night ; from the intense cold it was impossible to 
 aieep. Hungry and without cover. 
 
 19th January, Monday. — We again took the field, 
 and after crawling about one mile in the snow, got 
 near enough to shoot eight times at a gang of buffa- 
 loes, and could plainly perceive two or three of them 
 to be badly wounded, but by accident they took the 
 wind of us, and, to our great mortification, all were 
 able to run off. By thistime 1 had become extreme- 
 
 28 
 
326 BIOGRAPHY OF 
 
 ly weak and faint, it beinj^j the fourth day since we 
 had received sustenance, all of which we were march- 
 ing hard, and the last niglit had scarcely closed our 
 eyes to sleep. We were inclining our course to a 
 point of woods ; determined to remain absent and die 
 by ourselves, rather than return to our camp and be- 
 hold the misery of our poor lads, when we discovered 
 a gang of buffaloes coming along at some distance* 
 With great exertions 1 made out to run and place my- 
 self behind some cedars, and hy the greatest good luck 
 the first shot stopped one, which we killed in three 
 more shots, and by the dusk had cut each of us 
 a heavy load, with which we determined immedi- 
 diately to proceed to the camp, in order to re- 
 lieve the anxiety of our men, and carry the poor 
 fellows some food. We arrived there about twelve 
 o'clock, and when I threw my load down, it was 
 with difficulty I prevented myself from falling ; I was 
 attacked with a giddiness of the head, which lasted 
 for some minutes. On the countenances of the men 
 was not a frown, nor a desponding eye, but all seem- 
 ed happy to hail their officer and con)panions, yet 
 not a mouthful had they eat for four days. On de- 
 manding what were their thoughts, the sergeant re- 
 plied, the most robust had determined to set out in 
 search of us on the morrow, and not return unless 
 they found us, or had killed something to preserve the 
 lives of their starving companioits.'' 
 
 in the course of this long, toilsome, and perilous 
 march, Pike displayed a degree of personal heroisjn 
 and hardihood, united with a prudence and sagacity 
 which, had they been exerted on some wide theatre 
 of action, would have done honour to the most re- 
 nowned general. The reader may, perhaps smile at 
 this remark, as one of the wild exaggerations of a bi- 
 ographer aiixioug to dignify thecharacterof his hero, 
 
ZEBULON M. PIKE» 32t 
 
 but the truth is, that great men owe much of their 
 splendour to external circumstances, and if Hanni- 
 bal had made his famous march across the Alps at 
 the head of a company of foot, instead of an army, 
 his name, if it had reached us, would have come down 
 10 posterity with much less dignity than that of our 
 hardy countryman. Tliere are passages in Pike's 
 journal of his second expedition wliich, had they been 
 found, with proper alterations of place and circum- 
 stance, related by Plutarch or Livy of one of their 
 heroes, would have been cited by every schoolboy 
 as examples of military and heroic virtue. Take, 
 for instance, the account of Pike's firm and prudent 
 conduct in repressing the first symptoms of discon- 
 tent in his little band, and his address upon this oc- 
 casion to the mutineer, and they will be found to 
 need but little of the usual embelishments of an elo= 
 quent historian, to be made worthy of Haanibai 
 himself. 
 
 " 24th January, Saturday. — We sallied out in the 
 morning, a*,d shortly after perceived our little band, 
 marching tln'ough the snow, (about two and a half 
 feet deep,) silent, and with downcast countenances. 
 We joined them, a.-nl learnt ^'^at they, finding the 
 snow to fall so thickly that it was impossible to pro- 
 ceed, had encamped about one o'clock the preceding 
 day. As i tound all the buiraloes had .yuii^d the 
 plains, I d. termined to alte'npt the traverse of 
 the mountains, in which we persevered 'Mitil the 
 snow became so deep it was impossible to p!0ceed, 
 when I again turned my face to the pJain, a!](- for the 
 first time in the voyage found myself discouraged, 
 and for the first time 1 heard a man express himself 
 in J) seditions manner ; he exclaimed, '' ti.it it was 
 mor-^ than human naldre co ild bear, to march three 
 day- wilhout sustenance, thronghi sriows Uu ^e. feet 
 deep and carry burdens only fit for horses,'"' «kc. 
 
J28 iilOGRATHV OF 
 
 " As I knew very well the tidelity and attachment 
 }[ the majority of the men, and even of this poor fel- 
 fow, and that it was in my power to chastise him when 
 ] thought proper, I passed it by for the moment, de- 
 termined to notice it at a more auspicious time. We 
 dragged our weary and emaciated limbs along until 
 about ] o'clock. The doctor and myself, who were 
 in advance, discovered some buffaloes on the plain, 
 when we left our loads and orders written on the snow, 
 to proceed to the nearest woods to encamp. We 
 went in pursuit of the buffaloes which were on the 
 move. 
 
 *' The doctor, who was then less reduced than my- 
 self, ran and got behind a hill, and shot one down^ 
 which stopped the remainder. We crawled up to 
 the dead one, and shot from him as many as twelve 
 or fourteen times among the gang, when they remov- 
 ed out of sight. We then proceeded to cut up the 
 one we had shot, and after procuring each of us a load 
 of the meat, v/e marched for the camp, the smoke of 
 which was in view. We arrived at the camp to the 
 great joy of our brave lads, who immediately feasted 
 sumptuously. After oar repast, I sent for the lad 
 %vho had presumed to speak discontentedly in the 
 course of the day, and addressed him to the follow- 
 ing effect ; '* Brown, you this day presumed to make 
 use of language which v/as seditious and mutinous ; I 
 then passed it over, pitying your situation, and attri- 
 buting it to yoiir distress, rather than to your own in* 
 CiinatioD to sow discontent amongst the party. Had 
 1 reserved provisions for ourselvesj whilst you were 
 starving; had we been marching along light and at 
 our ease, whilst you were weighed down with your 
 burden, then you would have had some pretext for 
 your observations ; but when we were equally hun- 
 gry, weary, emaciated, and charged with burden, 
 
ZEBULON M. PIKE, 329 
 
 which I believe my natural streiigth is less able to 
 bear tiiaii any man's in the party ; when we were al« 
 ways foremost in breaking the road, reconnoitering, 
 and the fatigues of the chase, it was the height of in- 
 gratitude in you, to let an expression escape which 
 was indicative of discontent, your ready compliance 
 and tirni perseverance I had reason to expect, as the 
 leader of men, and my companions in miseries and 
 dangers. But your duty as a soldier demanded your 
 obedience to your officer, and a prohibition of such 
 language, which for this time, 1 will pnrdon, but as- 
 sure you, should it ever be repeated, I will revenge 
 your ingratitude and punish your disobedience by in- 
 stant death, I take this opportunJty, likewise, to as- 
 sure you, soldiers, of my thanks for the obedience, 
 perseverance, and ready contempt of every danger 
 which 30U liave generally evinced ; I assure you, no- 
 thing shall be v/anting on my part to procure you the 
 rewards of our government, and gratitude of your 
 countrymen.'' 
 
 " They all appeared very much affected, and re° 
 tired with assurances of perseverance in duty." 
 
 Amid?t these distresses, after a three months' win- 
 ter's march, they explored their way to what they 
 supposed to be ihe Red River. Here they were met 
 by a party of Spanish cavalry, by whom Pike was in- 
 formed, to his great astonishment, that they were not 
 on the Red River, but Oii the Rio del Noi te, and in 
 the Spanish territory. All opposition to this force 
 would have been idle, and he reluctantly submitted 
 to accompany the Spaniards to Santa Fe, to appear 
 before the governor. Though, to his great mortifi- 
 cation, his expedition v/a> tbiis broken oiF, all hard- 
 ship was now at an end. lie was treated on the road 
 with great respect and hospitality, though watched 
 and guarded with much jealousy 5 but he still insisted 
 
 28* 
 
OoU BIOGRAPHY OP 
 
 on wearing his sword, and that his men should retaiij 
 their arnns. Indeed, it was his resohition, had he or 
 any of his people been ill used, to surprise the guard, 
 carry ofT their horses, and make the best of their way 
 to Apaches. 
 
 When he arrived at Santa Fe, his whole dress was 
 a blanket-coat, blue trowsers, mockasons, and a scar- 
 let cloth cap lined with a fox skin ; his men were in 
 leather coats with leggings, &;c., and not a hat in the 
 whole party. But he appeared before the governor 
 with his usual spirit, and insisted on being treated 
 with the respect due to an American officer. From 
 Santa Fe he was sent to the capital of the province of 
 Biscay, to be examined by the commandant general, 
 where he was well received and entertained for some 
 time, after which he was sent on his way home, under 
 the escort of a strong party of horse. He arrived 
 with his little band at Natchitoches on the 1st of Ju- 
 ]y, 1807. 
 
 The most vexatious circumstance attending this 
 unexpected sequel to his expedition, was the seizure 
 of all bis papers, except his private journal, by the 
 Spanish government. He had been fitted out with a 
 complete set of mathematical and astronomical in» 
 atruments, and had made frequent and accurate ob- 
 servations. He had thus ascertained the geography 
 icai situation of the most important points, with much 
 precision, and had collected materials for an accu- 
 rate map of a great part of the country he traversed. 
 The seizure of these papers is a real loss to the cause 
 ©f science. It is, however, in perfect conformity to 
 that narrow and purblind policy which the old Span- 
 ish government uniformly manifested in the adminis- 
 tration of its colonies. 
 
 Pike, upon his return, received the thanks of the 
 govenimentj a committee of the house of represent* 
 
ZEBULON M. PIKE. 331 
 
 latives expressed their high sense of his " zeal, per- 
 severance, and intelligence," and the administration, 
 much to its honour, bestowed upon him a more soHd 
 testimony of approbation, by a rapid promotion in the 
 army. He was immediately appointed captain, short- 
 ly after a major, and upon the further enlargement 
 of the army in 1810, a colonel of infantry. 
 
 During the interval of his miHtary duties, he pre° 
 pared for the press a narrative of his two expeditions, 
 accompanied by several valuable original maps and 
 charts. This was published in 8vo. in 1810. The 
 work is rather overloaded with unnecessary detail, 
 and the language is careless and often inaccurate ; 
 the last fault is, however, in a great measure to be 
 attributed to several disadvantageous circumstances 
 under which the work went to press, while the au- 
 thor was at a distance, engaged in public service. 
 Still it is sutficiently evident that the volume is not 
 the composition of a scholar. But it bears the strong- 
 est marks of an acute, active, busy mind, unaccus- 
 tomed to scientific arrangement or speculation, but 
 filled with a variety of knowledge, all of a useful, 
 practical kind. Though entirely unacquainted with 
 botany, zoology, and mineralogy, as sciences. Pike 
 had a liberal curiosity, which taught him to look up- 
 on every object with the eye of an observer, and to 
 despise no sort of knowledge, though he might not 
 himself perceive its immediate utility. Above all, 
 the narrative has that unstudied air of truth which is 
 so apt to evaporate away in the processes of the book- 
 making traveller ; it retains all the clearness and 
 freshness of first impressions, and we are never for a 
 moment left in doubt whether or no the writer and 
 the traveller are the same person. 
 
 Immediately after the declaration of war. Pike 
 was stationed with his regiment upon the northern 
 
332 BIOGRAPIir OF 
 
 frontier, and upon the commencement of the cam- 
 paign of 1813, was appointed a brigadier general. 
 
 There was a tincture of enthusiasm in Pike's char- 
 acter which commu.'iicated itself to his whole con- 
 duct : in whatsoever pursuit he engaged, he entered 
 upon it with his whole soul. But the profession of 
 arms had been always his favourite study — his ' life's 
 employment, and his leasure's charms.' Having ser- 
 ved through every gradation of rank, almost from a 
 private, up to a general, and very often employed 
 in separate and iFidependent commands, he w^as in- 
 timately acquainted with all the minutias of disci- 
 pline. The veteran of a peace establishment is too 
 apt, from the want of greater objects, to narrow his 
 mind down to the little details of a military life, un- 
 til, at length, every trifle swells up into ideal impor- 
 tance, and the cut of a coat or the tying of a neck- 
 cloth, seems big with the fate of nations. Pike was 
 extremely attentive to all the particulars, even to 
 ihe most minute points of discipline and dress, yet 
 he gave them their due importance, and no more. 
 He did not degrade the soldier into a mere living ma- 
 chine, and while he kept up the strictest discipline, 
 he laboured to make his men feel that this severity 
 arose not from caprice or ill temper, but from princi- 
 ple, and that it had for its sole object their own glory, 
 their ease, their health, and safety. Careless of pop- 
 ularity, and negligent of the arts hy which good will 
 IS often conciliated, where there is no real esteem. 
 by the unassuming simplicity and frankness of his 
 manners, and the undeviating honour of his conduct, 
 be bound to himself the hearts of all around him 
 with the strong ties of respect and affection. 
 
 Thus self formed, and thus situated, the eyes of 
 the army were anxiously cast towards him as the 
 chosen chainpion who was to redeem their reputa- 
 
^EBULON M. PIKE, 33S 
 
 Hon from that disgrace, with wh-ich it had been stain- 
 ed by a long series of disaters. Tlie day for wWch hie 
 heart had long panted at length arrived — a bright day 
 of glory for the hero, of gloom and sorrow to his 
 country. He was selected for the command of the 
 land forces in an expedition against York, the capital 
 of Upper Canada, and on the 25th of April, sailed 
 from Sackett's Harbour in the squadron command- 
 ed by Commodore Chauncey. The day before the 
 expedition sailed, he wrote a letter to his father, 
 which contained these prophetic words : 
 
 " I embark to-morrow in the fleet at Sackett's Har- 
 liour, at the head of a column of 1,500 choice troops, 
 on a secret expedition. If success attend my steps, 
 honour and glory await my name ; if defeat, still 
 shall it be said that we died like brave men, and 
 conferred honour, even in death, on the American 
 name. 
 
 " Should I be the happy mortal destined to turn 
 the scale of War, will you not rejoice, O my father ? 
 May Heaven be propitious, and smile on the cause of 
 my country ! But if we are destined to fall, may my 
 fall be like Wolfe's — to sleep in the arms of victory." 
 
 On the 27th of April, Gen. Pike arrived at York, 
 with about seventeen hundred chosen men, and im- 
 mediately prepared to land. The spot which was 
 selected for landing, was the site of an old French 
 furt called Torento, of which scarcely any vestages 
 now remain. The plan of attack was formed by 
 General Pike himself, and clearly and minutely de» 
 tailed in his general orders, which were directed to 
 be read at the head of every corps ; every field offi- 
 cer was also directed to carry a copy of the^nn in or« 
 dcr that he might at any moment refer to them, and 
 give explanations to his subordinates. Every thing 
 was arranged, and every probable exigency provided 
 lor, with admirable method and precisiono 
 
:>34 BIOGRAPHY OF 
 
 There is one paragraph of these orders which 
 breatfces so much of his own spirit, that I cannot for- 
 bear extracting it. It is deeply stamped with that 
 \inity of character which was visible throughout all 
 his actions, and which is, in truth, one of the strongest 
 marks of a powerful and original mind. 
 
 " No man will load until ordered, except the light 
 troops in front, until withia a short distance of the en- 
 emy, and then charge bayonets ; thus letting the en- 
 emy see that we can meet them with their own weap- 
 ons. Any man firing or qutting his post without or- 
 ders must be put to instant death, as an example may 
 be necessary. Platoon officers will pay tiie greatest 
 attention to the coohiess and aim of their men in the 
 fire ; their regularity and dressing in the charge. 
 The field officer will watch over the conduct of the 
 whole. Courage and bravery in the field, do not more 
 distinguish the soldier than humanity after victory ; 
 and whatever examples the savage allies of our ene- 
 mies may have given us, the general confidentjj hopes 
 that the blood of an unresisting or yielding enemy 
 will never stain the weapons of the soldiers of his col- 
 umn. Property must be held sacred ; and any sol- 
 dier who shall so far neglect the honour of his profes- 
 sion as to be guilty ofplundering the inhabitants shall, 
 if convicted, be punished with death. But the com- 
 manding general assures the troops, that should they 
 capture a large quantity of pu;)lic stores, he will use 
 his host e.ideavours to procure them a reward from his 
 government." 
 
 As soon as the debarkation commenced, a body of 
 British grenadiers was paraded on the shore, and the 
 Gleni;ary Fencibles, which had been disciplined with 
 great care, and has repeatedly proved itself fudy 
 equal to any regular force, appeared at another point. 
 Large bodies of Indians were also seen in ditlerent 
 
ZEBULON M* PIKE/. 335 
 
 directions, while others filled the woods which skirt- 
 ed the shore. General Sheaffe commanded in per- 
 
 £011. 
 
 Forsythe's riflemen were first to land, which they 
 effected under a heavy fire of musketry and ri- 
 fles from the Indians and British. As soon as the 
 fire from the shore commenced, Major Forsythe had 
 ordered his men to rest a few moments upon their 
 oars, and return the fire. At this moment Pike was 
 standing upon the deck of his ship. He saw the 
 pause of his first division, and, impatient at the de- 
 lay, exclaimed, " I can stay here no longer, come, 
 jump into the boat ;" and, springing into it, followed 
 by his staff, was immediately rowed into the thickest 
 of the fire. 
 
 The infantry had followed the riflemen, and form- 
 ed in platoons as soon as they reached the shore. 
 General Pike took the command of the first platoon 
 which he reached, and ordered the whole to prepare 
 for a charge. They mounted the bank, and the en- 
 emy, after a short conflict, broke at once, and fled in 
 dif^order towards the works. At that moment the 
 sound of Forsythe's bugle was heard, announcing his 
 success at another point. Its effect upon the In- 
 dians was almost electrical ; they gave a horrible 
 yell, and fled in every direction. 
 
 The whole force, being now landed and collect- 
 ed, was again formed and led on by General Pike 
 in person, to attack the enemy's works. They ad- 
 vanced through the woods, and after carrying one 
 battery by assault, in the most gallant manner, mov- 
 ed on in columns towards the main work. The fire 
 of the enemy was soon silenced by our artillery, and 
 a flag of surrender was expected, when a terrible ex- 
 plosion suddenly took place from the British maga- 
 zine, which had been previously prepared for thi« 
 
336 BIOGRAPHV Oi 
 
 purpose. Pike, after aiding in removing a wounded 
 man with his own hands, had sat down on the stump 
 of a tree with a British sergeant, who had been taken, 
 and was employed with Captain Nicholson and one 
 of his aids, in examining the prisoner. The explo- 
 iion was tremendous ; an immense quantity of large 
 stones were thrown in every direction with incredi- 
 ble force, and scattered destruction and confusion 
 around among our troops. The general, his aid, 
 captain Nicholson, and the prisoner fell together, aJl 
 except the aid, mortally wounded. General Pike 
 had been struck on the breast by a heavy stone, 
 Shortly after he received the blow, he said to his 
 wounded aid, *' I am mortally wounded — write to my 
 friend D , and tell him what you know of the bat- 
 tle, and to comfort my ." In the same broken 
 
 manner, he afterwards added several other requests 
 relating to his private affairs. 
 
 The troops were instantly formed again ; as a body 
 of them passed by their wounded general, he said, 
 *^ Push on, brave fellows, and avenge your general." 
 While the surgeons were carrying him out of the 
 field, a tumultuous huzza was heard from our troops j 
 Pike turned his head with an anxious look cf enquiry ; 
 he was told by a sergeant, " The British union jack 
 is coming down, general — the stars are going up.'' 
 He heaved a heavy sigh, and smiled. He was then 
 carried on board the commodore's ship, where he 
 lingered for a few hours. Just before he breathed 
 his last the British standard was brought to him ; he 
 made a sign to have it placed under his head, and ex- 
 pired without a groan. 
 
 The death of General Pike, at such a period, was 
 a great pubhc misfortune ; his countrymen did not 
 know half the extent of their loss. Pike was plain 
 a^d uuimposing in his appearance and manners, and 
 
SEEULON M. VIKE. 337 
 
 iO' the world seemed iittle more than an active and 
 intelligent soldier ; but it is not easy to say what 
 height of military excellence may not have been 
 reached by a mind like his, stimulated by high-soar- 
 ing ambition, braced up by principle to habitual dig- 
 nity of thought, and constantly expanding its views, 
 enlarging its resources, and unfolding its powers, by 
 £ts own native and unwearied energy. 
 
 Gallant spirit ! It was thine to wash out with thy 
 life blood the foul remembrance of our country's 
 shame — of those disgraces which had blasted her 
 honour, and tarnished the ancient glories of her arms. 
 It was thine, in life, in death, to give to your com- 
 panions in arms a great example of chivalrous hon- 
 our and heroic courage ; — it was thine to lead them 
 to the threshold of the temple of fame, and bid thenn 
 enter on a long career of glory. 
 
 Gallant spirit! Thy country will not forget thee ; 
 Chou shalt have a nobie memory. When a greatfu! 
 nation confers upon the heroes of Niagara and Erie 
 the laurels they have sa nobly earned, she will bid 
 (hem remember that those laurels were first gather^ 
 ed on the shores of York, and were watered by the 
 blood of a hero ; and hereafter, when our children 
 and children's children shall read the story of patri- 
 ots and heroes who have gallantly fallen in the arms 
 of victory ; when their eyes glisten, and their young 
 hearts throb wildly at the kindling theme, they will 
 close the volume which tells of Epaminondas, of 
 Sydney, or of Wolfe, and proudly exclaim, " And wc 
 too, had our Montgomery and our Pike." 
 
 [Analectic Magazmcc 
 
Biography of 
 CAPTAIN JAMES LAWRENCEe 
 
 To speak feelingly, yet temperately, of the mer- 
 its of those who have bravely fought and gloriously 
 fallen in the service of their country, is one of the 
 most difficult tasks of the biographer. Filled with 
 admiration of their valour, and sorrow for their 
 fate, we fell the impotency of our gratitude, in be- 
 ing able to reward such great sacrifices with noth- 
 ing but empty applause. We are apt, therefore, to 
 )e hurried into a degree of eulogium, which, howev- 
 r sincere and acknowledged at the time, may be 
 Guarded as extravagaiit by the dispassionate eye of 
 dlcr years. 
 
 ^Ve feel more particularly this difficulty, in under- 
 taking to give the memoirs of one, whose excellent 
 qualities and gallant deeds are still vivid in our re- 
 collection, and whose untimely end has excited, in 
 an extraordinary degree, the sympathies of his coun- 
 trymen. Indeed, the popular career of this youth- 
 ful hero has been so transient, yet dazzling, as al- 
 most to prevent sober investigation. Scarce had we 
 ceased to rejoice in his victory, before we were cal- 
 led on to deplore his loss. He passed before the 
 pui)lic eye like a star, just beamifig on it for a mo- 
 ment, and falling in the midst of his brightness. 
 
 Uaptain James Lawrence was born on the 1st of 
 Or,t. 1 78 1 , at Burlington, in the state of New- Jersey. 
 He was the youngest son of John Lawrence, Esq. aQ 
 eminent counsellor at law of that place. Within a 
 
JAMES LAWRENCE* 5 39 
 
 few weeks after his birth his mother died, and the 
 charge of him devolved on his sisters, to whom he 
 ever showed the warmest gratitude for the tender 
 care they took of his infant years. He early evin- 
 ced that excellence of heart by which he was char- 
 acterised through life; he was a dutiful and affec- 
 tionate child, mild in his disposition, and of the most 
 gentle and engaging manners. He wis scarce twelve 
 years of a^e, when he expressed a decided partiahty 
 for a seafaring life ; but his father disapproving of itj 
 and wishing him to prepare for the profession of the 
 law, his strong sense of duty induced him to acqui- 
 esce^ He went through the common branches of 
 education at a grammar school at Burlington, with 
 much credit to himself, and satisfaction to his tutors. 
 The pecuniary misfortunes of his father preven- 
 ted his receiving a finished education, and between 
 the age of thirteen and fourteen he commenced the 
 study of the law with his brother, the late John Law- 
 rence, Esq. who then resided at Woodbury. He re- 
 mained for two years in this situation, vainly striv= 
 ing to accommodate himself to pursuits wholly repug- 
 nant to his taste and inclinations. 7'he dry studies 
 of statutes and reporters, the technical rubbish and 
 dull routine of a lawyer's ofhce, were little calcula- 
 ted to please an imagination teeming with the adven- 
 tures, the wonders, and variety of the seas. At 
 length, his father being dead, and his strong predi- 
 lection for the roviiig life of a sailor being increased 
 by every attempt to curb it, his brothv.r yielded to 
 his solicitions, and placed him under the care of Mr. 
 Griscomb, at Burlington, to acquire the principles of 
 navigation and naval tacticks. He remained with 
 him for tliree months, when, his intention of apply- 
 ing for a situation in the navy being generally known, 
 several of the mo5t distintraished gentlemen of the 
 
it BIOGRAPHY OF 
 
 -fate interested themselves in his behalf, and wrote 
 to the navy department. The succeeding mail 
 brought him a midshipman's warrant ; and betweca 
 the age of sixteen and seventeen he entered theser- 
 vice of his country. 
 
 His first cruise \^'as to the West Indies, in the ship 
 Ganges, commanded by Captain Thomas Tingey, 
 In tins and several subsequent cruises, no opportuni--' 
 iy occurred to call forth particular services ; but the 
 attention and intelligence'whichhe uniformly display- 
 id in the discharge of his duties, the correctness of 
 iiis deportment, and the suavity of his manners, gain- 
 ed him the approbation of his commanders, and ren- 
 dered hiin a favourite v/ith his associates and inferi- 
 ors, 
 
 "Whch lbs war was declared against Tripoli, he 
 was promoted to a lieutenancy, and appointed to 
 ilhf: tomirand of the schooner Enterprize. While in 
 this command, be volunteered his services in the 
 hazcirdous exploit of destroying the frigate Philadel- 
 phia, and accompanied Decatur as his first lieuten- 
 mt. The brilliant success of tha^t enterprise is well 
 kr ovvD : and for (he gallantry and skill displayed on 
 ihe occasion, Decatur was made post captain, while 
 Lawronce, in common with the other officers and 
 crew, were voted by congress two months' extra pay 
 —a sordid and paltry reward, which he immediately 
 declined. 
 
 The harbour of Tripoli apppcars to have been the 
 school of our naval heroes. In tracing the histories 
 of tho«e whohave VcLicly distinguished themselves, we 
 are always led to the coast of Barbary as the field 
 of their iirst experience and young achievement. — 
 The concentration of our little navy at this pointy 
 soon after its formation, has had a happy effect upon 
 lis ch^.rncter and fortunes. The officers were most 
 
JAMES LAWRENCE. 341 
 
 of them young in years, and yoiinj^ in arms, full of 
 life and spirits, and enthusiasm. Such is the time to 
 form generous impressions and strong attachments. 
 It was there they grew together in habits of mutual 
 confidence and friendship ; and to the noble emula- 
 tion of so many young minds newly entering upon 
 an adventurous profession, may be attributed that 
 enterprising spirit and defiance of danger that has ev- 
 er since distinguished our navy. 
 
 After continuing in the Mediterranean about three 
 years and a half, Lawrence returned to the United 
 States with commodore Preble, and was again sent 
 out on that station, as commander of gun boat No. 6, 
 in which he remained for sixteen months. Since that 
 time he has acted as first lieutenant of the Constitu- 
 tion, and as commander of the Vixen, Wasp, Argus 
 and Hornet. In 1808, he was njarried to a daugh- 
 ter of Mr. Montaudevert, a respectaide merchant of 
 New-York, to whom he made one of the kindest and 
 most affectionate of husbands. 
 
 At the commencement of the recent war he sail- 
 ed in the Hornet sloop of war, as part of the squad- 
 ron that cruised under commodore Rodgers. While 
 absent on this cruise, lieutenant Morris was promo- 
 ted to the rank of post captain, for his bravery and 
 skill as first lieutenant of the Constitution in her ac- 
 tion with the Guerriere. This appointment, as it 
 raised him two grades, and placed him over the heads 
 of older officers, gave great offence to many of the 
 navy, who could not brook that the regular rules of 
 the service should be infringed, it was thought par- 
 ticularly unjust, as giving Inm rank above Lawrence, 
 who had equally distinguished himself as first lieu- 
 tenant of Decatur, in the destruction of the frigate 
 Philadelphia, and who, at present, was but master 
 and commander. 
 
 29- 
 
^^'- EIOGRAFi]! OF 
 
 On retiirnu.g from his cruise, captain Lavvieiice, 
 after consulting wiih commodores Rodgers and Bain- 
 bridge, and with other experienced gentlemen of the 
 n:\.\'y, addressed a memorial to the senate, and a let- 
 ter to the secretary of tlie navy, wherein, after the 
 fdilest acknowledgments of the great merits and ser- 
 vices of captain Morris, he remonstrated in the most 
 temperate and respectfiil, but firm and manly lan- 
 guage, on the impropriety of his promotion, as being 
 ?'cr;irarv to the rules of naval precedence, and partic- 
 iilar'y hard as respected himself. At the same time, 
 he frankly mentioned that he should be compeJled, 
 iiowever reluctajit, to leave the service, if thus im- 
 properly outranked, 
 
 'The reply of the secretary was singularly brief; 
 bartly observJn-;. Ihrit if he ihoaght proper to leave 
 the service without a cause, there would still remain 
 heroes ai)d patriots to support the honour of the flag. 
 There was a laconic severity in this reply calcula- 
 ted to cut a man of feeling to the heart, and which 
 ought not to have been provoked by the fair and 
 candid remonstrance of Lawrence. 
 
 WliCre men are fighting for honour rather than 
 profit, the utmost dehcacy should be observed to- 
 wards their high-toced feelings. Those complaints 
 which spring from Y*'ounded pride, and the jealousy 
 of station, should never be regarded lightly. The 
 ^est soldiers are ever most tenacious of their rank ; 
 for it cannot be expected that he who hazards every 
 thing for distinction, will be careless of it after it is 
 attained. Fortunately, Lawrence had again depart- 
 ed on a cruise before this letter arrived, which oth- 
 erwise might have driven from the service one of our 
 most meritorious officers. 
 
 This second cruise was in company with com- 
 .modore Bainbridge, who cojnmanded the Constitiv 
 
JAMEo LAWRLNCi., 343 
 
 lion. While cruising off the Brazils, they fell io 
 with the Bonne Citoyenne, a British ship of war, 
 having on board a large amount of specie, and chas- 
 ed her into St. Salvador. Notwithstanding that she 
 was a larger vessel, and of a greater force in guns 
 and men than the Hornet, yet cnptain Lawrence 
 sent a challenge to her commander, captain Green, 
 pledging his honour that neither the Constitution nor 
 any other American vessel should interfere. Com- 
 modore Bainbridge made a similar pledge on his 
 own part ; but the British commander declined the 
 combat, alleging that though perfectly satisfied that 
 the event of such a rencounter would be favourable 
 iio his ship, "yet he was equally convinced that commo- 
 dore Bainbridge could not swerve so much from the 
 paramount duty he owed his country, as to become 
 an inactive spectator, and see « ship belonging to 
 the very squadron under his orders, fall into the hande 
 of the enemy." 
 
 I'o make him easy on this point, commodore Bain» 
 bridge left the Hornet four days together off the har- 
 bour in which the Bonne Citoyenne laid, and from 
 which she could discover that he was not within for- 
 ty miles of it. He afterwards went into the harbour 
 and remained there three days, where he might at 
 any time have been detained twenty-four hours, at 
 the request of captain Green, if disposed to combat 
 the Hornet. At length the Constitution went offal- 
 together, leaving Lawrence to blockade the Bonne 
 Citoyenne, which he did for nearly a month, captain 
 Green not thinking proper to risk an encounter. It 
 is posible, that having an important public trust ia 
 charge, and sailing under particular orders, he did 
 not think himself authorised to depart from the pur- 
 pose of his voyage, and risk his vessel in a contest for 
 mere individual reputation. But if such were his 
 
344 BIOGRAPHY OF 
 
 reasons, he should have stated them when he refused 
 to accept the challenge. 
 
 On the 24th of January, captain Lawrence was 
 obliged to shift his cruising ground, by the arrival of 
 the Montague 74, which had sailed from Rio Janei- 
 ro, for the express purpose of relieving the iionne 
 Citoyenne and a British packet of 12 guns, which 
 I'kewise lay at St. Salvador. At length, on the 
 morning of the 24th of February, when cruising off 
 Demerara, the Hornet fell in with the British brig 
 Peacock, a vessel of about equal force. The con- 
 test commenced within half pistol shot, and so tre- 
 mendous was the fire of the Americans, that in less 
 than fifteen minutes the enemy surrendered, and 
 made signal of distress, being in a sinking condition. 
 Her mainmast shortly went by the board, and she 
 was left such an absolute wreck, that, notwithstand- 
 ing every exertion was made to keep her afloat un- 
 til the prisoners could be removed, she sunk with 
 thirteen of her crew, and three brave American 
 tars, who thus nobly perished in relieving a con- 
 quered foe. The slaughter on board of the Pea- 
 cock was very severe ; among the slain was found 
 ihe body of her commander, captain Peake. He was 
 twice wounded in the course of the action ; the last 
 wound proved fatal. His body was wrapped in the 
 Hag of his vessel, and laid in the cabin to sink with 
 her, a shroud and sepulchre worthy so brave a sailor. 
 
 During the battle, the British brig L'Espcigle, 
 mounting 15 two and thirty pound carronades and 
 two long nines, lay at anchor about six miles in shore. 
 Being apprehensive that she would beat out to the 
 assistance of her consort, the utmost exertions were 
 made to put the Hornet in a situation for action, and 
 in about three hours she was in complete preparation, 
 but the enemy did not think proper to make an attack. 
 
JAMES LAWRENCE. 345 
 
 The conduct of Lawrence towards his prisoners wag 
 such as, we are proud to say, has uniformly charac- 
 terised the officers of our navy. They have ever 
 displayed the liberality and scrupulous delicacy of 
 generous minds towards those whom the fortune of 
 war has thrown in their power ; and thus have woa 
 by their magnanimity, those whom they had conquer- 
 ed by their valour. The officers of the Peacock 
 were so affected by the treatment they received from 
 captain Lawrence, that on their arrival at New- York^ 
 they made a greatful acknowledgment in the public 
 papers. To use their own expressive phrase '•' they 
 ceased to consider themselves prisoners." Nor 
 must we omit to mention a circumstance highly to the 
 honour of the brave tars of the Hornet. Finding 
 that the crew of the Peacock had lost all their cloth- 
 jiig, by the sudden sinking of the vessel, they made & 
 subscription, and from their own wardrobes supphed 
 each man with two shirts, and a blue jacket and 
 browsers. Such may rough sailors be made, when 
 they have before them the example of high-minded 
 men. They are beings of but little reflection, open 
 »o the impulse and excitement of the moment ; and 
 it depends in a great measure upon their officers, 
 whether, under a Lawrence, they shall ennoble them- 
 selves by generous actions, or, under a Cockburn, be 
 hurried away into scenes of unpremeditated atro- 
 city. 
 
 On returning to this country, captain Lawrence 
 was received with great distinction and applause, 
 and various public bodies conferred on him peculiar 
 tokens of approbation. While absent, the rank of 
 post captain had been conferred on him, and shortly 
 after his return he received a letter from the secre- 
 tary of the navy, offering him the command of the 
 frigate Constitution, provided neither captains Por» 
 
346 BIOGRAPHY OF 
 
 ter or Evens applied for it, they being older officers. 
 Captain Lawrence respectfully declined this condi- 
 tional appointment, for satis^factory reasons which he 
 stated to the secretary. He then received an uncon- 
 ditional appointnnentto that frigate, and directions to 
 superintend the navy-yard at New-York, in the ab- 
 sence of captain Ludlow. The next day, to his great 
 surprise and chagrin, he received counter orders, 
 with instructions to take command of the frigate 
 Chesapeake, then lying at Boston, nearly ready for 
 sea. This appointment was particularly disagreea- 
 ble to him. He was prejudiced agtinst the Chesa- 
 peake, both from her being considered the worst ship 
 in our navy, and from having been in a manner dis- 
 graced in the affair with the Leopard. This last cir- 
 cumstance had acquired her the character of an un- 
 lucky ship — the worst of stigmas among saiiors, who 
 are devout believers in good and bad luck ; and so 
 detrimental was it to this vessel, that it has been found 
 difficult to recruit crews for her. 
 
 The extreme repugnance that captain Lawrence 
 felt to this appointment, induced him to write to the 
 secretary of the navy, requesting to be continued in 
 the command of the Hornet. Besides, it was his 
 wish to remain some short time in port, and enjoy a 
 little repose in the bosom of his family : particularly 
 as his wife was in that delicate situation, that most 
 calls forth the tenderness and solicitude of an affec- 
 tionate husband. But though he wrote four letters 
 successively to the secretary, he never received an 
 ansv/or, and was obliged reluctantly to acquiesce. 
 
 While laying in Boston roads, nearly ready for sea, 
 the British frigate Shannon appeared off the harbour, 
 and made signals expressive of a challenge. The 
 brave Lawrence immediately determined on accept- 
 ing it, thongh conscious at llje tim<3 of the ^reat dis- 
 
JAMES LAWRENCE, 34? 
 
 parity between the two ships. The Shannon was a 
 prime vessel, equipped in an extraordinary manner, 
 for the express purpose of combatting advantageous- 
 ly, one of our largest frigates. She had an unusual- 
 ly numerous crew of picked men, thoroughly disci- 
 plined and well officered. She was commanded by 
 captain Broke, one of the bravest and ablest officers 
 in the service, who fought merely for reputation. 
 
 On the other hand, the Chesapeake was an indif- 
 ferent ship ; with a crew, a great part of whom were 
 newly recruited, and not brought into a proper disci- 
 pline. They were strangers to their commander, 
 who had not had time to produce that perfect subor- 
 dination, yet strong personal attachment, which he 
 had the the talent of creating wherever he command^ 
 ed. His first lieutenant was sick on shore ; the oth- 
 er officers, though meritorious, were young men ] 
 two of them mere acting lieutenants ; most of them 
 recently appointed to the ship, and unacquainted 
 with the men. Those who are in the least informed 
 in nautical aflfliirs, must perceive the greatness of 
 these disadvantages. 
 
 The most earnest endeavours were used, by com- 
 modore Bainbridge and other gentlemen of nice 
 honour and sound experience, to dissuade captain 
 Lawrence from what was considered a rash and un- 
 necessary exposure. He felt and acknowledged the 
 force of their reasons, but persisted in his determina- 
 tion. He was peculiarly situated : he had formerly 
 challenged the Bonne Gitoycnne, and should he de- 
 cline a similar challenge, it might subject him to 
 sneers and misrepresentations. Among the other un- 
 fortunate circumstaiices that attended this ill-starred 
 battle, was the delay of a written challenge from cap- 
 tain Broke, which did not arrive until after captain 
 
348 BIOGRAPHY or 
 
 Lawrence had sailed. It is stated to have been couch 
 ed in the most frank and courteous language ; mi- 
 nutely detailing the force of his ship, and offering, if 
 the Chesapeake should not be completely prepared, 
 to cruise off and on until such time as she made a 
 specified signal of being ready for the conflict. It is 
 to be deeply regretted that captain Lawrence did 
 not receive this gallant challenge, as it would have 
 given him time to put his ship in proper order, and 
 spared him the necessity of hurrying out in his un- 
 prepared condition, to so formal and momentous an 
 encounter. 
 
 After getting the ship under way, he called the 
 crew together, and having ordered the white flag to 
 be hoisted, bearing the motto, " Free trade and sail- 
 ors' rights," he, according to custom, made them a 
 short harangue. While he was speaking several 
 murmurs were heard, and strong symptoms of dissat- 
 isfaction appeared in the manners and countenances 
 of the crew. After he had finished, a scoundrel Por- 
 tuguese, who was boatswain's mate, and acted as 
 spokesman to the murmurers, replied to captain Law- 
 rence in an insolent manner, complaining, among 
 other things, that they had not been paid their piize- 
 money, which had been due for some time past. 
 
 The critical nature of the moment, and his igno- 
 rance of the dispositions and characters of his crew, 
 would not allow captain Lawrence to notice such 
 dastardly and mutinous conduct in the manner it de- 
 served. He dared Jiot thwart the humours of men, 
 over whose affections he had not had time to acquire 
 any influence, and therefore ordered the purser to 
 take them below and give them checks for their 
 prize money, which was accordingly done. 
 
 We dwell on these particulars to show the dis- 
 astrous and disheartening circumstances under which 
 
JAMES LAWRENCE. 349 
 
 captain Lawrence went forth to this battle — circum- 
 Btances which shook even his calm and manlj breast, 
 and filled him with a despondency unusual to his na- 
 ture. Justice to the memory of this invaluable offi- 
 cer, requires that the disadvantages under which he 
 fought should be made public. 
 
 It was on the morning of the first of June, that the 
 Chesapeake put to sea. The Shannon, on seeing her 
 come out, bore away, and the other followed. At 4 
 P. M. the Chesapeake hauled up and fired a gun ; the 
 Shannon then hove to. The vessels manoevered in 
 awful silence, until within pistol shot, when the Shan- 
 non opened her fire, and both vessels, almost at the 
 same moment poured forth tremendous broadsides. 
 The execution in both ships was terrible, but the fire 
 of the Shannon was peculiarly fatal^ not only making 
 great slaughter among the men, but cutting down 
 some of the most valuable officers. The very first 
 shot killed Mr. White, sailing master of the Chesa- 
 peake, an excellent officer, whose loss at such a mo- 
 ment was disastrous in the extreme. The fourth 
 lieutenant, Mr. Ballard, received also a mortal wound 
 in this broadside, and at the same moment captain 
 Lawrence was shot through the leg with a musket 
 ball; he however supported himself on the compan- 
 ion way, and continued to give his orders with his 
 visual coolness. About three broadsides were ex- 
 changed, which, from the closeness of the ships, were 
 dreadfully destructive. The Chesapeake had three 
 men shot from her helm successively, each taking it 
 as the other fell ; this of course produced irregulari- 
 ty in the steering, and the consequence was, that her 
 anchor caught in one of the Shannon's after ports. 
 She was thus in a position where her guns could not 
 be brought to bear upon the enemy, while the latter 
 was enabled to fire raking shots from her foremost 
 30 
 
350 BIOORAPHV OF 
 
 guns, wbichswept the upper decks of the Chesapeake, 
 killing or wounding the greater portion of the men, 
 A hand grenade was thrown on the quarter deck, 
 which set fire to sonne musket cartridges, but did no 
 other damage. 
 
 In this state of carnage and exposure, about twenty 
 of the Shannon's men, seeing a favourable opportuni- 
 ty for boarding, without waiting for orders, jumped 
 on the deck of the Chesapeake. Captain Lawrence 
 had scarce time to call his boarders, when he receiv- 
 ed a second and mortal wound from a musket ball, 
 which lodged in his intestines. Lieutenant Cox, who 
 commanded the second division, rushed up at the call 
 for the boarders, but came just in time to receive his 
 falling commander. He was in the act of carrying 
 him below, when captain Broke, accompanied by 
 his first lieutenant, and followed by his regular board- 
 ers, sprang on board the Chesapeake. The brave 
 Lawrence saw the overwhelming danger; his last 
 words, as he was borne bleeding from tbe deck, were, 
 " don't surrender the ship !" 
 
 Samuel Livermore, Esq. of Boston, who, from per- 
 sonal attachment to captain Lawrence, had accom- 
 panied him in this cruise as chaplain, attempted to 
 revenge his fall. He shot at captain Broke, but miss- 
 ed him : the latter made a cut at his head, which Liv= 
 ermore warded off, but in so doing, received a severe 
 wound in the arm. The only officer that now remain- 
 ed on the upper deck was lieutenant Ludlow, who 
 was so entirely weakened and disabled by repeated 
 wounds received early in the action, as to be incapa- 
 ble of personal resistance. The comparatively small 
 number of men, therefore, that survived on the up- 
 per decks, having no ofiicer to head them, the British 
 succeeded in securing complete possession, before 
 those from below could get up. Lieutenant Budd^ 
 
JAMES LAWRENCE. 35 1 
 
 n-bo had commanded the first division below, being 
 informed of the danger, hastened up with some men, 
 but was overpowered by superior numbers, and cut 
 down immediately. Great embarrassment took 
 place, in consequence of the officers being unacquaint- 
 ed with the crew. In one instance in particular^ 
 lieutenant Cox, on mounting the deck, joined a party 
 of the enemy through mistake, and was made sensible 
 of his error, by their cutting at him witii tlieir sabres. 
 
 While this scene of havoc and confusion was going 
 on above, captain Lawrence, who was lying in the 
 wardroom in excruciating pain, hearing the firing 
 cease, forgot the anguish of his wounds i having no 
 officer near him, he ordered the surgeon to hasten on 
 deck and tell the officers to fight on to the last, and 
 never to strike the colours ; adding, '* they shall 
 wave while I live." The fate of the battle, howev- 
 er, was decided. Finding all further resistance vain, 
 and a mere waste of life, lieutenant Ludlow gave up 
 the ship; after which, he received a sabre wound in 
 the head from one of the Shannon's crew, which 
 fractured his skull, and ultimately proved mortal. 
 He was one of the most promising officers of his age 
 in the service, highly esteemed for his professioiial 
 talents, and beloved for the generous qualities that 
 adorned his private character. 
 
 Thus terminated one of the most remarkal^Je com- 
 bats on naval record. From the peculiar accidents 
 that attended it, the battle was short, desperate and 
 bloody. So long as the cannonading continued, the 
 Chesapeake is said to have ciearly had the advantage ', 
 and had the ships not run luul, itis probable she would 
 have captured the Shannon. 'J'hough considerably 
 damaged in her upper works, arid pierced with some 
 shot holes in her hull, yet she had sustained no injury 
 to atiect her safety ; whereas the Shannon had received 
 
jo^ biography of 
 
 several shots between wind and water, and, conse^ 
 fluently, could not have sustained the action long. 
 The havoc on both sides was dreadful ; but to the 
 singular circumstance of having every officer on the 
 upper deck either killed or wounded early in the ac- 
 tion, may chieily be attributed the loss of the Chesa- 
 peake. 
 
 There have been various vague complaints circu- 
 lated of the excesses of the victors, and of their 
 treatment to our crew after the surrender. These 
 have been, as usual, dwelt on and magnified, and 
 made subjects of national aspersion. Nothing can 
 be more illiberal than this. Where the scene of con- 
 jBict is tumultuous and sanguinary, and the struggle 
 desperate, as in the boarding of a ship, excesses will 
 lake place among the men, which it is impossible to 
 prevent. They are the inevitable incidents of war, 
 and should never be held up to provoke national ab- 
 horrence or retaliation. Indeed, they are so hable 
 to be misrepresented by partial and distorted ac- 
 counts, tliat very little faith is ever to be placed in 
 them. Such, for instance, is the report, that the 
 enemy discharged several muskets into the cockpit 
 after the ship had been given up. This, in fact, was 
 provoked by the wanton act of a boy below, who shot 
 down the sentinel stationed at the gangway, and thus 
 produced a momentary exasperation, and an alarm 
 that our men v/ere rising. It should be recollected, 
 likewise, that our flag was not struck, but v/as hauled 
 down by the enemy 5 consequently, the surrender of 
 the ship was notimmediately known tiiroughout, &:the 
 struggle continued in various places, before the proper 
 orders could be communicated. It is wearisome and 
 disgusting to observe the war of slander kept up by the 
 little minds jof both countries, wherein every paltry 
 jBisdeed of a paltry individual, is insidiously trump- 
 
JAMES LAWRENCE. 353 
 
 eced forth as a stigma on the respective nations. By 
 these means are engendered lasting roots of bitter- 
 ness, that c;ivc an implacable spirit to the actual hos- 
 tility of the times, and will remain after the present 
 strife shall have passed away. As the nations must 
 inevitably, and at no very distant period, come once 
 more together in the relations of amity and commerce^ 
 it is to be wished that as little private animosity may 
 be encouraged as possible; so that we may contend 
 for rights and interests, we may never cease to esteen:^ 
 and respect each other. 
 
 The two ships presented dismal spectacles after 
 the battle. Crowded with the wounded and the dy- 
 uiil^ tlicy rescml)!ed floating hospitals sending forth 
 groans at every roll. The brave Broke lay delirious 
 from a wound in the head, which he is said to have 
 received v/hile endeavouring to prevent the slaugh- 
 ter of some of our men who had surrendered. In his 
 rational intervals, he always spoke in the highest 
 terms of the courage and skill of Larwence, and of 
 the '^ gallant and masterly style" in which he brought 
 the Chesapeake into action. 
 
 The wounds of captain Lawrence rendered it im- 
 possible to remove him after the battle, and his cab- 
 in being very much shattered, he remained in the 
 wardroom. Here he lay, attencied by his own sur= 
 geon, and surrounded by his brave and sufteriiig of- 
 ficers. He made no comment on the battle, nor in- 
 deed was heard to utter a word, except to make 
 such simple requests as his necessities required. la 
 this way he lingered througli four days, in extreme 
 bodily pai'i, and the silent melancholy of a proud and 
 noble heart, and then expired. His body was wrap-' 
 ped in the colours of his ship and laid on the quarter 
 deck of the Chesapeake, to be conveyed to HaHfas 
 for interment. 
 
 30*' 
 
■-}0'i BiaGRAPHV Of 
 
 At (lie time of his death he was but thirty-two 
 years of age, nearly sixteen of which harl been hon= 
 ourably expended in the service of his country. He 
 was a disciplir.arian of the highest order, producing 
 perfect obedience and snbordination without severi- 
 ty. His men became zealously devoted to him, and 
 ready to do through affection what severity would 
 never have compelled. He was scrupulously cor- 
 rect in his piinciples, delicate in his sense of honour; 
 and to his extreme jealousy of reputation he fell a 
 victim, in daiing an ill-matched encounter, which 
 prudence would have justified him in declining. In 
 battle, where his lofty and commanding person made 
 him conspicuous, the calm collected courage, and el- 
 vated tranquility which he maintained in the midst 
 of of peril, imparted a confidence to every bosom. In 
 the hour of victory he was moderate and unassum- 
 ing ; towards the vanquished he was gentle, gener° 
 ous and humane. But it is on the amiable qualities 
 that adorned the private character, that his friends 
 will hang with the fondest remembrance — that bland 
 philanthropy that emanated from every look, that 
 breathed forth in every accent, that gave a grace to 
 every action. His was a general benevolence, that 
 like a lambent flame, shed its cheering rays through- 
 out the sphere of his influence, warming and gladden- 
 ing every heart, and lighting up every countenance 
 into smiles. But there is one little circle on whose 
 sacred sorrows even the eye of sympathy dares not 
 intrude. His brother being dead, he was the last 
 mail branch of a family, who looked up to him as its 
 ornament and pride. His fraternal tenderness was 
 the prop and consolation of two widowed sisters, and 
 in him their helpless offspring found a father. He 
 left also a wife and two young children, to whom he 
 was fervently attached. The critical situation of 
 
JAMES LAWRENCE* 365 
 
 the former, was one of those cares which preyed up=. 
 oil his mind at the time he went forth to battle The 
 utmost precautions were taken by his relatives tokeep 
 from her the knowledge of her husband's fate; their 
 anxiety was soon relieved by the birth of a son, who, 
 we trust, will inherit the virtues, and emulate the ac- 
 tions of his father. The unfortunate mother has at 
 length recovered from a long and dangerous contine- 
 ment; but has now learned the heart-rending intel- 
 ligence, that the infant in her arms is fatherless. 
 
 There is a touching pathos about the death of this 
 estimable officer, that endears him more to us than 
 if he had been successful. The prosperous con- 
 queror is an object of admiration, but in some meas- 
 ure of envy : whatever gratitude we feel for his ser- 
 vices, we are apt to think them repaid by the plau- 
 dits he enjoys. But he who falls a martyr to his 
 country's cause, excites the fulness of public sympa- 
 thy ; envy cannot repine at laurels so dearly purcha- 
 sed, and gratitude feels that he is beyond the reach 
 of its rewards. The last sad scene of his life hallows 
 his memory ; it remains sacred by misfortune, and 
 honoured, not by the acclamations, but the tears of 
 his countrymen. The idea of Lawrence, cut down in 
 the prime of his days, stretched upon his deck, wrap- 
 ped in the flag of his country — that flag which he had 
 contributed to ennoble, and had died iq defend — is a 
 picture that will remain treasured up in the dearest 
 recollections of every American. His will form one 
 of those talismanick names which every nation pre- 
 serves as watchwords for patriotism and valour. 
 
 Deeply, therefore, as every bosom must lament 
 the fall of so gallant and amiable an officer, there 
 are some reflections consoling to the pride of friend- 
 ship, and which sooth, though they cannot prevent, 
 the bitter tear of alfection. He fell before his flag 
 
356 BIOGRAPHV OF 
 
 was sfrnck. His fall was the cause, not the conse- 
 quence of defeat. He fell covered with glory, in the 
 flower of his days, in (he perfection of mental and 
 personal endowment, and the freshness of reputation; 
 thus leaving in every mind the full and perfect image 
 of a hero. However we may deplore the stroke of 
 death, his visits are occasionally well timed for his 
 victim : he sets a seal upon the fame of the ii!us(ri- 
 ous, fixing it beyond the reach of accident or change. 
 And where is the son of honour, panting for distinc- 
 tion, who would not rather, like Lawrence, be snatch- 
 ed away iii the brightness of youth ajid glory, than 
 dwindle down to what is termed a good old age, wear 
 his reputation to the shreds, and leave behind him 
 nothing but the remembrance of decrepitude and im- 
 becility. 
 
 With feelings that swell our hearts do we notice 
 the honours paid to the remains of the brave Law- 
 rence at Halifax. When the ships arrived in port, a 
 generous concern was expressed for his fite. The 
 recollection of his humanity towards the crew of the 
 Peacock was still fresh in every mind. His funeral 
 obsequies were celebrated with appropriate ceremo- 
 nials, and an affecting solemnity. His pall was sup- 
 ported by the oldest captains in the British service 
 that were in Halifax; and the naval officers crowded 
 to yield the l^lt sad honours to a man who was late 
 their foe, but now their foe no longer. There is a 
 sympathy between gallant souls that know no dis- 
 tinction of clime or nation. They honour in each 
 other what they feel proud of in themselves. The 
 group that gathered round the grave of Lawrence pre- 
 sented a scene worthy of the heroic days of chivalry. 
 It was a complete triumph of the nobler feelings over 
 the savRf^e |)assions of war. We know not where 
 most to bestow our admiration — on the living, who 
 
JAMES LAWRENCE. 55t 
 
 t>liowed such generous sensibility to departed vfrtue, 
 or on the dead, in being worthy of such obse- 
 ques from such spirits. It is by deeds hke these that 
 we really feel ourselves subdued. The conflict of 
 arms is ferocious, and triunnph does but engender 
 more deadly hostility ; but the contest of magnanim- 
 ity calls forth the better feelings, and the conquest 
 is over the affections. We hope in such a contest we 
 may never be outdone. 
 
 As to the event of this battle, deeply as we mourn 
 the loss of so many valuable lives, we feel no further 
 cause of lamentation. Brilliant as the victory un- 
 doubtedly was to the conquerors, our nation lost 
 nothing of honour in the conflict. The ship was gal» 
 lantly and bloodily defended to the last, and was lost 
 not through want of good conduct or determined 
 bravery, but from the unavoidable chances of battle. 
 It was a victory " over which the conqueror mourn- 
 ed — so many suffered." We will not enter into any 
 mechanical measurement effect and inches, or any 
 nice calculation of force; whether she had a dozen 
 men more or less, or were able to throw a (ew poimdfi 
 more or less of ball, than her adversary, by way of 
 accounting for her defeat ; we leave to nicer calcu- 
 lators to balance skill and courage against timber and 
 old iron, and mete out victories by the square and 
 the steelyard. The question of naval superiority, 
 about which so much useless anxiety has been man- 
 ifested of late, and which we -fear will cause a vast 
 deal of strife and ill blood before it is put to rest, was 
 in our opinion settled long since, in the course of the 
 five preceding battles. From a general examination 
 of these battles, it appears clearly to us, that under 
 equal circumstances of force and preparation, the 
 nations arc equal on the ocean ; and the result of 
 any contest, between well-matched ships, would de- 
 
MH BIOGRAPHY OF 
 
 pend entirely on accident. This, without anj charge 
 of vanity, we may certainly claim. 
 
 Our officers have hitherto been fighting under su- 
 perior excitement to the British. They have been 
 eager to establish a name, and from their limited 
 number, each has felt as if individually responsible 
 for the reputation of the navy. Besides, the haugh- 
 ty superiority with which they have at various times 
 been treated by the enemy, had stung the feelings of 
 the officers, and even touch the rough pride of the 
 common sailor. They have spared no pains, there- 
 fore, to prepare for contest with so formidable a foe, 
 and have fought with the united advantages of disci-' 
 pline and enthusiawn. 
 
 An equal excitement is now (elt by the British. 
 Galled by our successes, they begin to find that we 
 are an enemy that calls for all their skill and circum- 
 spection. They have therefore resorted to a strict- 
 ness of discipline, and to excessive precautions and 
 preparations that had been neglected in (heir navy, 
 and which no other modern foe has been able to 
 compel. Thus circumstanced, every future contest 
 must be bloody and precarious. 
 
 For our part we conceive that the great purpose 
 of our navy is accomplished. It was not to be ex- 
 pected that with so inconsiderable a force, we should 
 make any impression on British power, or materially 
 aflfect British commerce. We fought not to take 
 their ships and plunder their wealth, but to pluck 
 some of their laurels wherewith to grace our own 
 brows. In this we have succeeded ; and thus the 
 great mischief that our little navy was capable of do- 
 ing to Great-Britain, in showing that her maritime 
 power was vulnerable, lias been effected, and is irre- 
 ferievable. 
 
 The British may io future wars swarm on our 
 
JAMES LAWRENCE. 359 
 
 coasts — they may infest our rivers and our bays — ^ 
 they may destroy our ships — they may burn our 
 decks and our ports — they may annihilate every gal- 
 lant tar that fights beneath our flag — they may wreak 
 every vengeance on our marine that their overwhel- 
 ming force enables them to accomplish — and after 
 all what have they effected ? redeemed the pre-emi- 
 nence of their flag? destroyed the naval power of 
 this country ? — no such thing. They must first ob- 
 literate from the tablets of our memories, that deep- 
 traced recollection, that we have repeatedly met 
 them with equal force and conquered. In that in- 
 spiring idea, which is beyond the reach of mortal 
 hand, exists the germ of future navies, future power, 
 and future conquest, 
 
 [Jlnahciic Magazine, 
 
A VIEW 
 
 OF THE PRESENT NAVAL FORCE OF THE UNITED STATES ] 
 ITS INCREASE, AND FUTURE PROSPECTS. 
 
 The following is an accurate list of the vessel? 
 of war of the United States : — 
 
 
 Ships of 
 
 the line. 
 
 
 Columbus 
 
 74 
 
 Independence 
 
 t4 
 
 Chippewa 
 
 74 
 
 New-Orleans 
 
 74 
 
 Franklin 
 
 74 
 
 Washington 
 
 74 
 
 Ohio 
 
 74 
 
 
 
 
 Frigates. 
 
 
 Constitution 
 
 44 
 
 Java 
 
 4-1 
 
 Congress 
 
 36 
 
 Macedonian 
 
 36 
 
 Constellation 
 
 36 
 
 Mohawk 
 
 32 
 
 Fulton (steam 
 
 frigate) 30 
 
 Superior 
 
 44 
 
 Guerriere 
 
 44 
 
 United States 
 
 44 
 
 
 Ships, 
 
 
 Alert 
 
 18 
 
 Louisiana receiving 
 
 
 Coniiance 
 
 32 
 
 ship 
 
 18 
 
 Cyane 
 
 24 
 
 Ontario 
 
 18 
 
 Erie 
 
 18 
 
 Peacock 
 
 18 
 
 General Pike 
 
 24 
 
 Queen Charlotte 
 
 24 
 
 Hornet 
 
 US 
 
 Saratoga 
 
 22 
 
 John Adams 
 
 24 
 
 Block-ship 
 
 22 
 
 31 
 
.jO:i 
 
 A VIE 
 
 W OF 
 
 
 
 Brigs, 
 
 
 Detroit 
 
 18 
 
 Niagara 
 
 18 
 
 Enterprize 
 
 12 
 
 Oneida 
 
 14 
 
 Etna 
 
 none 
 
 Ranger 
 
 14 
 
 Jefferson 
 
 18 
 
 Raven 
 
 14 
 
 Jones 
 
 18 
 
 Sylph 
 
 14 
 
 Lawrence 
 
 20 
 
 Spark 
 
 12 
 
 Madison 
 
 18 
 
 Spitfire, (bomb) 
 
 
 
 Schooners, 
 
 
 Asp 
 
 2 
 
 Linnet 
 
 16 
 
 Corporation 
 
 none 
 
 Lynx 
 
 6 
 
 Despatch 
 
 2 
 
 Nonsuch 
 
 6 
 
 Eagle 
 
 12 
 
 Porcupine 
 
 1 
 
 Fox 
 
 4 
 
 Surprize 
 
 6 
 
 Ghent 
 
 1 
 
 Ticonderoga 
 
 14 
 
 Hornet 
 
 6 
 
 Vengeance, (bomb) 
 
 
 Sloop* 
 Lady of the Lake J | 
 
 Besides these, there are numerous gun-boats, bar- 
 ges, gallies, &c. The Chippewa and New-Orleans 
 ships of the line, the Mohawk and Superior frigates, 
 four ships, ten brigs, and six schooners, are on the 
 lakes. 
 
 For some years past, and particularly since the late 
 war, which aflforded so many brilliant examples of the 
 skill and bravery of American seamen, and of the ef- 
 ficiency of naval means of warfare, sentiments favour- 
 able to a maritime power, have prevailed throughout 
 the United States. From the influence of these sen- 
 timents, Congress, which, being constituted upon the 
 fair representative principle, is the depository of the 
 
THE NAVAL FORCE, &C. 363 
 
 intelligence, the will, and the interests of the nation, 
 has enacted several laws providing for the increase o* 
 the navj, and the more efficient direction of its af- 
 fairs. 
 
 The law passed in 1815, establishing the board of 
 '^ commissioners of the navj,*' formed a new and im- 
 portant aera in our naval history. This board con- 
 sists of three commissioners, and is attached to the 
 office of the secretary of the navy, and under his su- 
 perintendence discharges all the ministerial duties o^ 
 that office ; the procurement of naval stores and ma- 
 terials : the construction, armament, equipment and 
 employment of vessels of war, and all other ministeri- 
 al duties connected with the navy establishment» 
 By the act constituting the board of navy commission- 
 ers, they were empowered and directed to prepare, 
 with the consent of the secretary of the navy, such 
 rales and regulations as might be deemed necessary 
 for securing an uniformity in the several classes of 
 vessels, and their equipments, and for repairing and 
 fitting them, and for securing responsibility in the 
 subordinate officers and agents 5 which regulations, 
 when approved by the President, were to be respect- 
 ed and obeyed, until altered or revoked by the same 
 authority. By virtue of this authority, the commia- 
 sioners have prepared a system of rules and regula- 
 tions for the administration of the naval service. It be. 
 ing apprehended that some additional legislative pro- 
 visions might be neccss-3ry to give eflfect to theregir 
 
A VIEW Of 
 
 ^atioi)3 which had been adopted, during the last se^ 
 iionofCongress a resolution was passed by the Senate, 
 requesting information upon this subject from the na»; 
 val department, which produced a report from the 
 secretary of the navy, who, after suggesting that 
 some of the existing regulations required further le- 
 gislative provision, recommended that they be revi- 
 sed, and reported to Congress, and when adopted* 
 expressly made by Icm^ " rules and regulations for 
 the government of the navy of the United States.^' 
 The establishment of a board of commissioners, 
 which has brought into the naval department great 
 practical knowledge and experierxe, cannot fail of 
 being productive of the most important results, and 
 ofgiving promptitude and energy to the administra- 
 tion of the naval service. The commissioners must 
 be officers of the navy, whose rank shall not be be= 
 low a post captain 5 they have a salary of ^3,500 
 each per annum, in lieu of wages, rations, and all 
 other emoluments, and are authorized to appoint a 
 secretary, who has a salary which must not exceed 
 ^2,000 per annum. 
 
 In 1813, an act was passed by Congress providing 
 for the increase of the navy, which authorized the 
 President to cause to be built four seventy-four gun 
 ships, and six forty-four gun frigates, and the sum of 
 two millions five hundred thousand dollars was ap- 
 propriated for that object. In 181 6, an act was pas- 
 iied, entHled '^'' an act for the gradual increase of the 
 
THE NAVAL FORCE, &C. 365 
 
 navy of the United States," which appropriated the 
 sum of one milhon of dollars per annum, for the pe- 
 riod of eight years, including three hundred thousand 
 dollars, or the unexpended balance thereof which 
 had been appropriated the preceding year. — 
 By this act the President was authorized to cause to 
 be built nine ships, to rate not less than seventy-four 
 guns each, and twelve ships, to rate not less than 
 forty-four guns each, including one seventy-four and 
 three forty-four gun ships authorized to be built by 
 the act of 1 8 1 3, above referred to ; one of the seven- 
 ty-fours and three of the forty-fours, authorized 
 hy that act not having been built when the act of 
 1816 was adopted. The President v/as also author- 
 ized by this act to cause to be procured the steam en- 
 gines and all the imperishable materials necessary 
 for building three steam batteries on the most ap- 
 proved plan ; such materials to be secured in the 
 best manner to insure the completing such batteries 
 in the shortest time practicable, when they, or either 
 of them in the opinion of the President may be re- 
 quired for the public service. Since the passing of 
 this act and under its authority, the Columbus and 
 Ohio seventy-fours included in the foregoing list, have 
 been built, and there is one seventy-four building at 
 Boston, which is soon to be introduced into its des- 
 tined element. After the completion of that, our 
 navy will comprise eight seventy-four gun ships, or 
 six, exclusive of the New-Orleans and Chippewa, ou 
 
^00 A VIEW OF 
 
 the lake. By the act of 1816, providing tor tht 
 gradual increase of the navy of the United States, 
 fto far as .he same is unexecuted, there is authoritv 
 for building six additional seventy-fours, and nine 
 forty-four gun frigates, which is all the addition thai 
 can be made to the present navy of the United 
 States, by the existing laws. The building of near- 
 ly all of the sis seventy-fours, is already commenced, 
 and two, one at Philadelphia and one at Norfolk, are 
 in such a state of forwardness as to authorize the be- 
 lief that they will be launched this season. 
 
 The naval force of the United States, when in- 
 creased to the extent authorized by the existing laws, 
 will consist of 12 seventy-four gun ships, exclusive 
 of two of this class on the lake ; 20 frigates, nearly 
 all of forty-four guns, exclusive of two on the lakes ; 
 13 ships, rating from thirty-two to fourteen guns ; 14 
 brigs, from twenty to twelve guns, and 14 schooners ; 
 a part of the ships, brigs and schooners being on the 
 lakes. In addition to which are numerous gun-boats, 
 barges, galhes, &;c. This will be a very respectable 
 marine, and capable of affording very extensive pro» 
 tection to our sea-board. 
 
 The expense of maintaining such a navy, that is, 
 twelve seventy-fours and 20 forty-four gun frigates, 
 in actual service, may be estimated as follows : 
 
 According to the report of the secretary of the na- 
 vy, made in 1811, the expense of a single ship of tke 
 
THE NAVAL i'ORCE, ^C, 367 
 
 ane la actual service, is ^202,1 10 per annum, inclu- 
 bive of repairs, and consists of the following items : 
 
 92 officers and petty officers \ 
 
 280 able seamen, V g94j965 
 233 ordinary seamen and boys, j 
 
 Pay and clothing of marines, 8,175 
 
 Provisions, 53,970 
 
 Medicine and hospital stores, 5,000 
 
 Repairs and contingencies, 40,000 
 
 ^202,110 
 This estimate would probably rather fall short 
 than exceed the actual expenses. 
 
 Twelve ships at g202,110 each, per annum, is 
 ^2,425,320. The annual expenses of a forty-four 
 gun frigate, in actual service, have been estimated at 
 g 134,2 10, exclusive of g 14,200 f>r repairs, making 
 in all g 148,4 10. Twenty frigates, at gl 48,4 10 each, 
 is g3, 148, 200. — The whole expense of supporting 
 in actual service 12 seventy fours and 20 frigates, is 
 g5, 393, 520. But, without stopping to inquire wheth- 
 er this estimate is sufficiently ample, or whether it 
 covers all the contingencies of the service, it is to be 
 remembered that, in calculating the expenses of a 
 naval or military establishment, not only the direct, 
 but the incidental expenses are to be taken into con- 
 sideration ; and frequently the latter bear a very 
 considerable proportion to the former. Among the 
 more important incidental expenses, may be noticed 
 
368 A VIEW OF 
 
 those arising from pensions, which at the present 
 time, in the mihtary department, have become great 
 and almost alarming. 
 
 The true policy of the United States, with relation 
 to a navy, has long been a subject of discussion, and 
 about which very different opinions have been en- 
 tertained. At one period there was a very strong 
 opposition to a navy throughout the union, but this 
 gradually subsided, and, as one extreme usually fol- 
 lows another, there is, perhaps, at the present time, 
 some reason to apprehend that the public opinion is 
 too strongly inclined to the opposite course of poli- 
 cy. The brilliant and almost unexampled exploits 
 of our infant navy during the late v/ar, excited the 
 admiration of all. It not only " fought its way" to 
 public favour, and conquered the prejudices which 
 remained, but excited universal enthusiasm in its fa- 
 vour. The brilliancy of its achievements, probably 
 had the more effect, from their being contrasted with 
 the disasters which for a long time characterised the 
 operations of the army. From a very natural asso- 
 ciation of ideas, the admiration of the brilliant 
 achievements of our navy, produced very generally 
 a " love of naval glory." This is an admirable 
 spirit for our naval officers, and all concerned in the 
 service, but when it becomes a national spirit, it is 
 very dangerous. Whatever may be thought to be 
 the true policy of this country as to a navy, it must 
 liever be forgotten that its general pohcy, and that 
 
THE NAVAL FORCE, SlC, 369 
 
 which is alone consistent with its institutions, and up- 
 on which its unexampled prosperity has depended, 
 IS the maintenance o^ ^pacific character. This must 
 ever be the leading policy of the United States, and 
 to which all interests must be conducive or subordi- 
 nate. If it is ever departed from, no human sagaci- 
 ty can foresee what consequences will ensue. A 
 spirit of conquest, or the love of military or naval 
 glory, if it becomes national, is incompatible with 
 that pacific policy which ought always to character- 
 JSG the government of this country. The love of 
 glory is, to a nation, what the love of ' style' is to an 
 individual, both involving the sacrifice of real enjoy- 
 ments, for those which are altogether imaginary — 
 both destructive of repose and happiness, and tcnd^ 
 if persisted in, the one to bankruptcy and ruin, and 
 the other to enormous debts, and intolerable taxa- 
 tion, which in the end must either so far impoverish 
 and degrade the population, as to render them tit 
 subjects of despotism, or produce revolutions and in- 
 ternal commotions. It is one of the most difficult 
 subjects in the administration of a government, whose 
 general policy is to maintain a pacitic character, to 
 encourage and preserve a military spirit, so far as 
 may be necessary for defensive purposes, and to sus- 
 tain the honour of the national arms, yet to guard 
 against its being so diffused as to effect the peaceful 
 habits and pursuits of the inhabitants, and the pacific 
 viov/s and character of the nation. It being consid- 
 
370 
 
 A VIEW OF 
 
 €red as a political axiom that this country is to be 
 characterised by a general pacific poHcy, there can 
 be little difficulty in deciding the question as to the 
 maritime pom er which it ought to maintain. Its mil- 
 itary marine ought to be calculated only for defen- 
 sive objects, and uliimaidy, should be such as to be 
 fully adequate to these objects. It is not necessary 
 to inquire here how entensive a naval force is re- 
 quired to defend the sea coast of the United States, 
 inasmuch as such a marine can, consistent with the 
 public interest, be acquired only gradually, as the 
 resources of the country are developed, and its pecu- 
 niary and physical ability exterided. That its re- 
 sources will ultimately, (and at no distant period 
 neither,) be fully adequate to the maintenance of 
 such a navy, and that the commercial interests of the 
 country, the maritime pursuits of our citizens, and 
 the high character which our seamen have already 
 acquired, afford the most satisRictory assurances that 
 such a marine can be manned with brave and skill- 
 ful seamen, is most apparent, and what few, proba- 
 bly, will be disposed to deny. 
 
 That a naval force is the best, the most effectual, 
 and the most economical, both as it respects men and 
 money, for the defence of the sea-board, seems now 
 to be universally admitted. From the local situa- 
 tion of the United States, being separated by an 
 ocean of three thousand miles from the powers of 
 Europe, having an enxtensive sea <^ast, presenting 
 
371 
 
 riumerous assailable points, and being assailable in 
 no other quarter, having no independent nation as 
 neighbours, and from the vast resources of the coun- 
 try for supplying all the important materials for a ma- 
 rine, nature itself seems to have pointed out a navy 
 as the natural, proper, and the most effectual means 
 of defence. In the absence of naval means, we must 
 rely principally upon the militia for the defence of 
 the sea board, inasmuch as it is assailable at so many 
 different points, and for such great extent, that, if a 
 sufficient body of regular troops could be maintain- 
 ed, they could not be so stationed as to meet the sud- 
 den attacks and inroads of an enemy, hovering upon 
 a coast of fifteen hundred miles in extent. 
 
 From these considerations, and the prevailing sen- 
 timents of the people, there can be no doubt but that 
 the United States is destined to become a povi^erfui 
 maritime nation. That it should aim to become 
 such, so far as may be necessary, for all defensive 
 and useful purposes, is undoubtedly its true policy — - 
 a policy founded in wisdom, and sanctioned by expe- 
 rience. But this does not require, as some have sup- 
 posed, that we should have a navy equal to that ot 
 Great-Britain, and which would enable us to dispute 
 with her the dominion of the ocean. From geo- 
 graphical and local considerations, we must always 
 have great advantages over the British or any other 
 power, in maintaining a maritime war upon our own 
 coast. From the great distance, and the difficulty 
 
372 A VIEW OF 
 
 of obtaining supplies, it is impossible for any Euic 
 pean nation to maintain a large naval force upon our 
 coast for any length of time, not to take into consid- 
 eration the perils and vicissitudes to which such an 
 armament is exposed, upon a distant and dangerous 
 coast, deprived of the benefit and security of ports 
 and harbours, and of its utter inability to remain on 
 the coast during certain seasons. From these and 
 other considerations, a navy comparatively small 
 would be adequate to the purposes of defence ; more 
 especially if, as during the late war, our officers and 
 seamen mai»ntain a decided naval superiority. 
 
 Those who feel friendly to the maritime power ol' 
 the United States, ought to be cautious about urging 
 unseasonably, its enlargement, as nothing can so 
 much endanger its prosperity as its premature exten 
 
 sion. 
 
 It is not to be disguised that a respectable naval 
 establishment is attended with a very heavy expense, 
 and should such a one be acquired before the nation 
 was able to sustain it, whereby it might embarrass 
 the treasury, or occasion unusual burdens upon the 
 people, it would certainly produce a reaction in the 
 public mind ; and considering the nature of our in- 
 stitutions, and how immediately every thing depends 
 upon popular opinion, it could not be a matter of 
 surprise if the navy should fall a sacrifice to it. — 
 Such a case has already once occurred in our his-, 
 tory. The existing laws have, probably, provided 
 
 RD*9 4 i< 
 
THE NAVAL FORCE, &C. 373 
 
 for the more rapid increase of the navy than was ad- 
 visable ; more especially considering the embarrassed 
 state of the treasury, and the probable diminution of 
 the imposts, which may render it necessary to have 
 recourse to other sources of revenue. With a na- 
 tion, as with an individual, it is infinitely easier to 
 increase than to diminish expenses ; and with either, 
 when a system of expenditure has been adopted, al- 
 though it was entirely unnecessary at the time, it is 
 extremely difficult to abandon it, or even retrench 
 upon it afterwards. It is scarcely possible to oh- 
 ierwe too much caution in guarding against the exten- 
 iion of the public expenditure. If there is any one 
 axiom in politics, established by universal history, 
 it is, that all governments, whatever may be their 
 form or spirit, tend to a constant increase of expendi- 
 ture. We need not add that the United States 
 forms no exception to this principle, inasmuch as 
 that for the first years after the organization of the 
 federal government, its revenue was but between 
 three and four millions, and the present year, (1820) 
 an estimated revenue of twenty-two millions leaves 
 a deficit of more than the whole revenue at the peri- 
 od referred to. 
 
 These observations are not made from any views 
 unfriendly to a navy, but to shew the necessity of 
 proceeding gradually, and ofobservingdue caution in 
 its extension. The friends of a navy have no occa- 
 sion to be over solicitous. The spirit of the nation 
 
374 A VIEW OP 
 
 is in their favour, and if would be more conducive 
 to the objects they have in view, that it should be 
 repressed rather than excited. 
 
 Whoever considers the vast extent of our coun- 
 try, its rapid advancement in population, wealth and 
 resources ; the industry and enterprize of our citi- 
 zens ] the undefined and almost unknown regions of 
 pubhc lands, which, whilst they constitute a national 
 domain, thai, under a proper system of management, 
 would ultimately afford a revenue adequate to the 
 whole public expenditure, present every variety of 
 surface and of soil, which invite the residence of 
 man, and promise a rich reward to agricultural in- 
 dustry, and an immense increase of population, must 
 be sensible of the ultimate capacity of the United 
 States to sustain a large maritime power. They 
 will likewise, we believe, be sensible that it is nei- 
 ther nescessary nor expedient to increase our navy 
 any faster than may correspond with the develope- 
 ment of the resources of the country. It is also 
 most devoutly to be hoped, that the public mind 
 will never become so perverted upon this subject as 
 to sanction the opinion that the greatness and glory 
 of the United States will depend upon her maritime 
 power. We want a navy for a shield, not for a 
 scourge. Those who are fascinated with naval glo- 
 ry, we would recommend to cast their eyes across 
 the Atlantic, and view the present condition of Great- 
 Britain, the mistress of the ogean. Her naval su- 
 
THE NAVAL FORCE, &C. 375 
 
 premacy is now undisputed ; she has maintained a 
 long and successful career of naval warfare and glo- 
 ry ; she has vanquished and nearly annihilated the 
 maritime power of every nation in Europe ; she has 
 had her Drakes, her Collingwoods, her Vincents 
 and her Nelsons, and what has been the result ? 
 What has the nation acquired by the toil and exer- 
 tions of two centuries ; by the sacrifice of a hundred 
 millions of Hves, and ten hundred millions of treas- 
 ure ? If any have any doubts as to these enquiries^ 
 we would refer them to the people of that country 
 to remove them. Let them ask the widow, whose 
 husband was killed in the battle of the Nile, the 
 mother whose sons fell at Trafalgar, or the farmer 
 whose stock has been sold by the tax-gatherer. Let 
 them listen to the sighs of two millions of paupers — 
 to the indignant voice of a once brave and magnan- 
 imous, but now degraded, oppressed and starving 
 population, groaning under the weight of an intole- 
 rable system of taxation, and struggHng, as the last 
 effort of despair, to throw off the chains which bind 
 them, or break them over the heads of their opres^ 
 sors. 
 
 Such are the fruits of a spirit of dominion and glo-> 
 ry. A far nobler destiny we trust awaits our coun- 
 try. The temple of her naval glory can never be 
 raised at the expense of her prosperity and happi- 
 ness. Her greatest glory, it is to be hoped, will ev- 
 er consist in her republican institutions, in a h^^ 
 
A VlEWj &C* 
 
 press, and iVee suffrage; in the equality, Vibevl), 
 independence and intelligence of her citizens ; \r 
 that exemption from external wars and inters: ■. v' 
 lence, resulting from representative authority, ai 
 a pacific policy; in the justice of her governmentj 
 the magnitude of her power, and the extent of hr^ 
 territory, population and resourcese 
 
 ERRATA. 
 
 Page 148, line 13th from the bottom, for Uamiuiixfidi\ Ham 
 ilton. 
 
 Pas:e 150. Parry's ietters— after Western, for LhUt' reat 
 Sister, 
 
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