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THE 
 
 NAVAL MONUMENT, 
 
 CONTAINING OFFICIAL AND OTHER ACCOUNTS 
 
 OF ALL THE BATTLES FOUGHT BETWEEN 
 
 THE NAVIES OF THE 
 
 UNITED STATES AND GREAT BRITAIN 
 
 DURING THE LATE WAR; • 
 
 ANT> AN 
 
 AC'COUNT OF THE WAR WITH ALGIERS. 
 
 WITH 
 
 TWENTY-FIVE ENGRAVINGS. 
 
 TO WHICH IS ANNEXED 
 
 A XAVAL REGISTER OF THE UNITED STATES, 
 
 KEVISED AND CORRECTED, 
 AND BROnOHT DCWN TO THE TEAR 1836. 
 
 NEW YORK; 
 
 PUBLISHED BY NAFIS & CORNISH, 
 ST. LOUIS, Mo. : VAN DIEN &. McDONALD. 
 
^3 ko 
 
 ■2 
 
 .31 
 
 District of Massachusetts, to w>t : 
 
 District Clerk's OJim. 
 
 Be It remembered, that on the 12th day of March, A. D. 1816, and in the 40th 
 year of the independence of the United States of America, ABEL BO WEN, of 
 the said district, has deposited in this office the title of a book, the right whereof 
 he claims as proprietor, in the words following, to wit : 
 
 " The Naval Monument, contaitdng official and other Accounts of all the Battles 
 fought between the Navies of the United States and Great Britain, during the late 
 War; and an account of the War nith Algiers; with twenty-five Engravings. To 
 which is annexed a Naval Register of the United States." 
 
 In conformity to an act of the Congress of the United States, entitled " An Act 
 for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of Maps, Charts and 
 Books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies during the times therein 
 mentioned ;" and also to an act entitled " An Act supplementary to an act, 
 entitled An Act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of 
 ]\Iaps, Charts and Books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies during the 
 limes therein mentioned ; and extending the benefits thereof to the Arts of Design- 
 ing, Engraving,* and Etching Historical and other Prints." 
 
 JNO. W. DAVIS, Clerk of the district of Massachusetts. 
 
 * The Designs and Engravings in this volume were entered, as the law directs, Nov. 
 25, avid Dtc. 28, 1815, by A. Bowen. 
 
w 
 
 THE OFFICEBS 
 
 Of 
 
 THE UNITED STATES NAVY. 
 
 WHO BY THtIR 
 
 BRAVERY AND SKILL 
 
 1IA\E EXALTED THE AMERICAN CHARACTER, 
 
 SECURED 
 THE APPLAUSK OF THBIR COUNTRY, 
 
 AND EXCITED THE 
 
 ADMJRA TION OF THE WORLD, 
 
 THIS VOLUME 
 
 fS MOST RKSPECTPUIiliY DEDICATED, 
 
 BV TTTK'H 
 
 IIUKT OBT AN.. arWElE SKRVT., 
 
 A BO W EN . 
 
PREFACE. 
 
 That a country, but of yesterday among the nations, should already 
 have acquired naval renown, and made the trident tremble in hands 
 that had wielded it for ages, is now not least among the phenomena 
 in the archives of history. Burke was astonished at the growth 
 which, in his time, had happened to this country within the short 
 period of the life of man. " Whatever England has been growing 
 to, by a progressive increase of improvement, brought in by varieties 
 of people, by successions of civilizing conquests and civilizing 
 settlements, in a series of seventeen hundred years, you shall see as 
 much added to her by America in course of a single life." Thus he 
 supposes the genius of Lord Bathurst to have addressed^ that noble- 
 man in his youth, foretelling only what, at the moment of uttering 
 this fine imagination, had become fact ; and yet to have left his Lord- 
 ship altogether incredulous and in wonder. But what has not been 
 the progress of this country since Burke's day, and still all within 
 the compass of a single life ? America was then under the bonds of 
 colonial subjection. Imagine, at the time he spoke, some sage, equally 
 illustrious, had thus addressed the monarch of England: " Sire, 
 these bonds she shall soon burst. You v^rill struggle to impose others, 
 and to force her sons to your service. They will resist, with a spirit 
 60 desperate, and an enterprise so hardy, as shall, 'before you taste of 
 death,' make your ships not safe at home, even within your immedi- 
 ate waters. Your navy, the favorite of your kingdom, that you have 
 been centuries creating, shall strike, once and again, in single ships 
 and in squadron, on the ocean and the lakes, in the old world and 
 the new, to a navy, the outcast of "its country, and the work of an 
 hour. It will indeed be simply an upstart from its cradle, but you 
 will find it a Hercules there." Had the sovereign then been thus 
 prophetically " rapt into times" but little " future," rather than live 
 to behold them, would he not gladly have resigned at once his crown 
 and life ? 
 
 Naval history has a charm on the attention of the ardent, from 
 being peculiarly the record of enthusiasm Every naval man of 
 
 * The be?innins of this address we supply for the gratification of what we 
 consider laudable, a proper national pride. " Young man, there is America— 
 which at this day serves for little more than to amuse you with stories of savage 
 men and uncouth manners ; yet shall, before you taste of death, show itself equal 
 to the whole of that commerce, which mm attracts the envy of the world." 
 
VI PREFACE. 
 
 spirit is an enthusiast. We read of " the self-devoted Decii." 
 Among naval men, self-devotion is so common, that an act, evincing 
 this virtue merely, is passed almost without notice. It is looked 
 upon as but duty, and therefore no object for praise. They devote 
 themselves to their country and to their commander, with whom, in 
 their minds, indeed, the country is often identified. This spirit per- 
 vades not merely officers, but the men. Instances from British his- 
 tory are familiar ; and the one from our own, of the sailor who inter- 
 posed himself between the uplifted scymitar and Decatur, in the first 
 Tripolitan war, and received the blow in its fall, of which he still 
 lin^rers the living monument, is, we trust, indelibly riveted in the 
 memory of a grateful country, who probably owe to this one act of 
 heroism all the benefit of the subsequent signal services of this 
 gallant captain. Here is disinterestedness that was perfectly pure, 
 unadulterated even by the love of fame. What cared this mariner 
 for fame ? His name scarcely is known ; and how soon it is every 
 where forgotten, he heeds not. Nay, when all was over, had he not 
 borne upon his body the marks of an act, which subjected him to the 
 teasing of questions as to its cause, home this sailor had probably 
 gone, and, like Samson of old, " told neither father nor mother of 
 it." This utter extinction of selfishness, is it not sublime ? The 
 "ear of death, according to Johnson, "natural to all," is, in this class 
 of men, not merely completely overcome. Death is courted by them 
 as glory, or sought from friendship. Is it owing to the progress of 
 Christianity, gradually and insensibly improving and elevating the 
 mass of mankind, that the virtues of our ordinary seamen have become 
 thus exalted ? What a reform have men's ideas not undergone in 
 the lapse of a few years? Chivalry of character has shifted its ele- 
 ment. The world now looks for " men of honor," and for "cavaliers." 
 not where it looked formerly. To the ocean, which was of late 
 inseparably associated with every thing boisterous and rough ; the 
 traversers of which were thought to participate only in the nature of 
 the storms that occasionally desolate its surface ; to this ocean are the 
 eyes of mankind now universally directed for all that is valorous 
 and gallant in war, and for much of the virtue thought peculiar to 
 peace. The habiliments of the knight are changed ; and the plain- 
 ness, that most ennobles, has got to be (such are the caprices of fash- 
 ion) the common, every-day dress of the mariner. , 
 
 The dawn of the American navy was ominous of a glorious day. 
 Not to mention the other exertions at sea in the war of the revolu- 
 tion,* which were all respectable, and, but for an eclipse from greater 
 
 * To show the notice Barney then pained, and the favor shown hy fair royalty 
 to the American cause, we add, as a cnriosity, what we do not vouch for as lacl. 
 " A correspondent of the Morning Chronicle, who signed " Jkan Francis," affirms, 
 that the musical bagatelle, called ' Barney leave the i^irh alone,'' owes its origin 
 to the Uiss publicly bestowed on this American officer by the beantitul Maria 
 Antoini'iic, and was composed by Count 0"L. ol'the Irish brigade, whr was pn^s- 
 eni ai court when the roy:il lamiliarity look place ; and he stated, that the mauls of 
 honor were all socager to follow the ;;rricions cyainple set bv the lovely (jueen, that 
 Mr. Barney became an object of envy and dishke to ibe entire hmu nm/nie. The 
 American papers soeak I'avorablv of his conduct on the surprise of Washington, 
 
PREFACE. VU 
 
 brightness, would have remained brilliant ; the exploits of Paul Jones 
 alone excited an eclat that ensured the whole extent of success, which 
 has to this day followed. Triixton and the Constellation flashed 
 next on the public eye. The scene of naval operations soon shifted 
 to Tripoli. Here Preble was the father of a spirit that now reflects 
 its radiance alike on his memory and country. The warfare was 
 most active. It evinced enterprise the most ardent, and boldness 
 the most daring. In these seas, nearly all the mariners, who have 
 since been eminently distinguished, received their first rudiments of 
 discipline and lessons of danger. The city thrice bombarded ; the 
 only frigate the Turks took, and that, from her accidentally grounding, 
 fired at the very mouths of their loaded batteries ; the infidels chas- 
 tised into peace ; self-devotion animating our whole fleet as one 
 band ; in the background of the picture, Somers, Israel, Wadsworth, 
 kindling their own funeral pyre, and mounting in a blaze to the 
 mansions of light ; these were "among the objects which then attracted 
 the attention of the world, and forced its admiration. 
 
 We have just passed the close of a three years' war. The causes 
 of that war out of the question, the interrogatory is put to the politician, 
 to him who realizes that in the family of nations no one member has re- 
 spect from another, but for its power ; to him the point is pressed home ; 
 is not the effect of this war, in the impression produced the world 
 over from the lustre of our arms, cheaply bought by all the blood and 
 the treasure that the conflict has cost ? Is not our flag now looked 
 up to, as an object of triumph, under every heaven ? Is not our 
 navy covered with renown ? 
 
 A good mind is ever grateful for peace. Justice to the merits 
 that have achieved it, is to such a mind among the first of its duties. 
 Has this renown then been justly acquired ? 
 
 "What are the constituents of naval excellence ? Bravery, discipline, 
 military and nautical skill. In each of these respects, what are the 
 positive merits, and what the comparative, of the American navy? 
 
 It is not intended to pursue the answer through details of any 
 great minuteness. It will be rested on the authority principally of 
 thia single volume, the references to which will, for the most part, be 
 general. 
 
 Bravery may be shown either in enterprise or in actual engage- 
 ment ; as well in the pursuit, as the improvement, of opportunity ; 
 in defeat not less than in victory. 
 
 Bravery of enterprise certainly belongs in common to all of our 
 captains, the oldest at their head, who bearded the lion in his den. 
 They have even been blamed for excess in this particular, and the 
 right of challenge has been absurdly questioned, as if in a strife of 
 mere glory, and to settle the point as to power, it was not highly 
 commendable to seek the opportunity indispensable for the purpose. 
 but which yet happened not to fall in one's way. The challenge 
 given by the Hornet, and that taken (for sailing across the harbor 
 
 and affirm, that of the seamen he commanded, one half were killed and wonnded ; 
 he was himself badly wounded and taken prisoner." — Brit. Nav. Chron. 1814. 
 
• • • 
 
 ^"* PREFACE. 
 
 was clearly in substance a challenge) bv thp lnpH««c ri, i 
 
 under circumstances of obvious d.sad^vlta^e be ore the^f^t^^^^^^ 
 have lost the eff-ect of land habhs. or have^^^egted theTr TJ' 
 are among the countless proofs of an asnirina ^y.\t\s '''j^\^^'^ }^-^^^ 
 
 ZT ''"'f -r'y "-" ^' lea:t^o"b^e'c^d;^Td 7a L'S 
 not having dared to attempt. i<iiiin^ irom 
 
 rvrba?tli'a'^Ti"'V'T? ^" '''^''^ Americans have not evinced brave- 
 rh. K i The fatal engagement of the Chesapeake, even after 
 
 valTant denrivpHnf I ' ^' '"'"' ^" ^"J^ "^^y- ^^^^ ^^^U continue 
 
 K .V. fi i'^ I ^^^. ^"""tenance and support of every officer ? 
 
 Of the fights between smgle vessels, that of the Wasp and the PrI/ec 
 
 on taking his smgle life as the object to make victory sure or tLan 
 this same commander, breaking/ the enemv's Uhp ti.L i n u 
 own force, exposing himself o"f tVr 7sh r £%tf S t 
 double broadsides at once, and at half pistol shot dTstance ^ VVho 
 ever evinced greater constancy than Macdonough. awaitfnTai anchor 
 
 Z« ^ \ , ^.^"'^ country, in suspense for safety on the 
 
ADVERTISEMENT 
 
 In makin» this selection, the editor has endeavored to obtain the most correct 
 and authentii', accounts. He cannot, however, promise himself that every part 
 of it is perfectly accurate ; but he believes that no material error has escaped him. 
 The difficulties of observing exact chronological order in a work like this need 
 not be mentioned,' as they will readily occur to the reader. Perhaps some mstan- 
 ces of skill and valor have been overlooked, and others given too much at length. 
 The official accounts of the battles represented in the plates are given entire. la 
 many other instances, official letters are curtailed. To have printed them at 
 large would have increased the work beyond the limits prescribed. This is offered 
 as an apology for omitting what otherwise would gladly have been inserted. 
 Many of the periodical publications of the last four years have been examined, 
 but the compiler is particularly, and almost exclusively, indebted to the able and 
 indefatigable Mr. Niles, publisher of the Baltimore Weekly Register, a paper in 
 which may be found a full and interesting naval and military history of the late 
 wars against Great Britain and Algiers. The pages of this work might have 
 been enriched with extracts from the Analectic Magazine and Naval Chronicle ; 
 but this is rendered unnecessary by the extensive circulation of that eloquent and 
 excellent work. Whoever wishes to be instructed or delighted on the subject of 
 the American navy, may have his curiosity fully gratified by a perusal of those 
 publications. 
 
 The editor cannot but indulge the hope, that he has fulfilled the engagements 
 made in the prospectus, and equalled the expectations of subscribers. Should 
 he meet the approbation of the public, he intends to publish a military history of 
 the war, on a similar plan, entitled the Military Chronicle. 
 
 IMost of ihe engravings which accompany this volume are from the designs of 
 Mr. Come. The fronti'spiece was designed by Mr. Pennimau. Ttie plate which 
 exhibits the return of the squadron from the Mediterranean, is from a design of 
 Mr. Fanning, and was taken from actual survey on board the Independence. 
 
 For the Preface the editor is indebted to the kindness of a literary gentleman, 
 who has furnished to our periodical publications many interesting articles on 
 the subject of the navy. A. B. 
 
INDEX TO THE ENGKAVINGS 
 
 ./ 
 
 Frontispiece, facing the title Page 
 
 Constitution's Escape from a British Squadron 1 
 
 Constitution bearing down for the Guerriere ... 10 
 
 Constitution in close action with the Guerriere 12 
 
 Wjisp boaiding the Frolic 16 
 
 United States and Macedonian ... 23 
 
 The Java surrendering to the Constitution 28 
 
 Hornet blockading the Bonne Ciioyenne 37 
 
 Hornet sinking the Peacock . 38 
 
 Chesapeake and Shannon . . 44 
 
 Enterprise and Boxer . 77 
 
 Fir.st view of Com. Perry's Victory . 85 
 
 Second view of Com. Perry's Victory . 86 
 
 Capture of the Essex 106 
 
 Peacock and Epervier 128 
 
 Wasp and Reindeer - 134 
 
 Wasp and Avon 140 
 
 Com. Macdonough's Victory 145 
 
 President engaging the Endymion 158 
 
 Constitution taking the Cyane and Levant 174 
 
 Hornet and Penguin 1^6 
 
 Hornet's Es.-ape from a British 74 192 
 
 -■- United States Squadron returning from the Mediterranean, after concluding 
 
 peace wub Algiers 279 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 The exploits of the American Navy in the late wai 
 between the United States and Great Britain, com- 
 menced with the escape of the Frigate Constitution 
 from an English squadron. 
 
 On July 12th, the Constitution, completely equipped 
 and well manned, left the Chesapeake, bound to New 
 York. On the 16th, saw a frigate and gave chase, 
 with winds too liglit to reach her. On the 17th dis- 
 covered the British squadron, consisting of the Africa 
 64, and Guerriere, Shannon, Belvidera and JEolus, 
 frigates, a brig and a schooner. The Belvidera with- 
 in gun-shot. The 17th was calm and spent in towmg, 
 manceuvering and firing. On the morning of the 18th 
 a li^ht breeze sprung up, when the Constitution spread 
 all her canvas, and by outsailing the enemy, escaped a 
 conflict, which she could not have maintained with any 
 hope of success, against a force so greatly superior. 
 The chase was continued sixty hours, during which the 
 whole crew remained at their stations. 
 
 A gentleman, belonging to an American captured 
 vessel, who was on board the Shannon, during the 
 above period, informs us, that all the officers of the 
 British squadron applauded the conduct of Capt. Hull; 
 and though mortified at losing so fine a ship, gave him 
 much credit for his skill and prudence m managing 
 
 the frigate. . u r n 
 
 A more particular account is detailed m the tollow- 
 inc^ extract from the Constitution's log book. 
 
 EXTRACTS FROM LOG BOOK. 
 
 Friday, July 17, 1812. 
 
 Commences with clear weather and fresh breezes 
 
 from the northward and eastward. At ^ past 1, 
 
 P. M., sounded in 22 fm's. water. At 2, four sail of 
 
 vessels in sight. At ^ sounded in 18 i fm's. At i 
 
4 ' . NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 past 3, tacked to the east. At 4, a ship in sight, 
 bearing N. E. standing down for us, and three ships 
 and a brig N. N. W. on the starboard tack. From 
 4> to 6, hght airs from the northward. At 6, the single 
 ship bearing E. N. E. At ^ past 6, got a hght 
 breeze from the southward and eastward, wore ship and 
 and stood towards the above sail, keeping her a httle 
 off the larboard bow. At ^ past 7, beat to quar- 
 ters and cleared ships for action. At 8, light airs ; — 
 coming up with the ships very slow. At i past 10, 
 made the private signals of the day. At i past 11, 
 hauled down the signals, not having been answered, 
 and made sail by the wind, with starboard tacks on 
 board. From 12 to 4 A. M. ligrht airs from the south- 
 ward and westward and cloudy. At 4 A. M. the ship 
 made a signal. At day-light, discovered three sail 
 astern. At 5, discovered another sail astern, making 
 two frigates off our lee-quarter, and two frigates and 
 one ship of the line, one brig, and one schooner, astern. 
 At 4 past 5, it being calm and the ship having no 
 steering way, hoisted out the first cutter and got the 
 boats ahead to tow ship's head round to the southward, 
 got a 24 pounder up off the gun-deck for a stern-gun, 
 and the forecastle gun aft — cut away the tatfarel to give 
 them room, and run two guns out of the cabin windows. 
 At 6, got the sliip's head round to the southward and 
 set top-gallant studding-sails and stay-sails, one of the 
 frigates firing at us. At i past 6, sounded in 26 fm's. 
 water. At 7, got a kedge and warped the ship ahead. 
 At i past 7, hoisted the colours and fired one gun 
 at the ship astern. At 8, calm ; — employed warping 
 and towing the ship. The other sliips having a light 
 air gaining on us, with their boats ahead, and one of 
 them using sweeps. At 9, the above ship in close chase 
 of us, and the nearest frigate gaining on us. At 9 
 minutes ]);ist 9, a light breeze sprung from the south- 
 ward ; braced up by the wind on the larboard tack, 
 when the above frigate commenced firing, but her shot 
 did not reacli us ; got the boats along side, run two of 
 them up. At 10, started 2S35 gallons of water and 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 pumped it out — almost calm — manned the first cutter 
 to tow ship ; — six sail of the enemy's ships off the star- 
 board beam and quarter ; perceived that the nearest 
 frigate had got all the boats from the other ships to tow 
 her towards us. From 10, A. M. to meridian, employ- 
 ed warping and towing. All sail made by the wind, 
 one of the ships coming up, apparently having all the 
 boats from the other ships. 
 
 Saturday^ July 18 
 
 Light airs from the southward and eastward, at- 
 tended with calms. At h after meridian, sent the 
 first cutter and green cutter ahead to tow ship. At ^ 
 before 1, P. M. a strange sail discovered two pomts 
 abaft off the lec-beam, the four frigates one point off 
 the starboard-quarter. Line-of-battle ship, brig and 
 schooner, off the lee-beam. At 7 minutes before 2, 
 the chasing frigates commenced firing their bow chase 
 guns, we returned them with- our stern chasers. At 
 i past 3, still chased by the above ships, one of them 
 being nearly within gun-shot. At 7, observed the 
 enemy's ships towing with their boats. Lowered down 
 the first cutter, green cutter and gig, and sent them 
 ahead to tow ship ;— light airs, inclinable to calms. ^ At 
 8, li^^ht airs from the southward and eastward. The 
 firsthand fifth cutters and gig ahead towing ship. The 
 enemy's ships in the same position as at 7. From 8 
 to 9, light airs and cloudy. The enemy's ships still in 
 chase of us ; boats ahead towing ship. At 7 minutes 
 before 11, a breeze springing up from the southward; 
 boats came along side, hoisted up the gig and green 
 cutter, and set the fore-top-mast staysail and main-top- 
 gallant studding sail. At midnight moderate breezes 
 and cloudy, the enemy's ships still in chase. At -., 
 A M. discovered one of the ships off the lee-beem. At 
 * past 2, took in the studding sails, at daylight four 
 frigates in sight, three off the .lee-quarter and one ofl 
 the lee-beam, from two to three miles distant. At 4, 
 six sail in sight from off the deck, hauled down the tore- 
 top-mast staysail ;— very light breezes. At 20 minutes 
 
^ NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 past 4, tacked ship to the eastward. At 5, passed about 
 gunshot distance to windward of one of the frigates , 
 hoisted in the first cutter ; — ten sail in sight from the 
 mast-head. At 9, saw a ship to windward, supposed 
 to be an American merchantman, standing towards us. 
 7^he frigate astern hoisted American colours as a de- 
 coy ; we immediately hoisted English colours, got roy- 
 al studding sails fitted. At 11, A. M. took in sky-sails. 
 At meridian, moderate breezes and pleasant weather, 
 rather leaving the frigates in chase ; the head-most 
 frigate to lee- ward, bearing nearly N. by V/. four or 
 five miles distant, the nearest frigate W. N. W. di- 
 rectly in our wake, distant about three and half miles. 
 The line-of-battle ship, N. by W. J W. on the lar- 
 board tack, hull down. Two frigates oft' our lee- 
 quarter, N. N. W. i W. and N. W. by N. about 
 five miles distant, and a brig bearing about N. by W. 
 Observed, latitude 38° 47' N. which, with the sound- 
 ings got at !^ past 10, A. M. and allowing for the 
 distance since run, gives our long, about 73" 53' W. 
 from which we date our departure. 
 
 July 19. 
 
 Fresh breezes from the southward and pleasant. At 
 1 P. M. hauled down the royal staysails and set the 
 middle staysail. At 2, got shifting backstays on the 
 top-gallant mast, and set them well up, took in the 
 gaft-topsail and mizen-toj)-gallant staysail. At * 
 past 2, set the mizen-top-gallant and main royal stay- 
 sails and main sky sail. At 4, a moderate breeze from 
 the S. S. W. and cloudy ; four sail of the enemy still 
 in chase, the nearest about six miles oft', bearing N. N. 
 W. and one oft' the weather quarter, W. by N. i N. 
 At i past 7, the leewardmost ship N. N. W. A W. 
 and tlie weatherinost ship, N. W. by i W. — the oth- 
 er two more astern, and luill down. At h i)ast 9, 
 the wind hauled round to the southward and west- 
 ward. At A 10 P. M. the wind backed round again. 
 At 11, could just discover the weather-bow ship to 
 have got in our wake. At midnight, moderate breezes 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 7 
 
 and pleasant. From midnight to 4 A. M. moderate 
 breezes. At 1-2 past 4, hauled up to S. E. by S. four 
 sail in sight astern, all of them hull down. At 1-2 past 
 6, more moderate ; — employed wetting the sails aloft. 
 At 8, four ships still in sight chasing us. At 1-2 8 A. 
 M. all the ships in chase stood to the northward and 
 eastward. 
 
 CAPT. hull's OFFICLiL LETTER. 
 
 Constitution at sea^ off JS'antucket, 
 Sir, Julij20, 1812. 
 
 The Constitution is on her way to Boston for your 
 orders, having been chased by a British squadron off 
 New- York, and very near being taken. The chase 
 continued three days and nights, by a line-of-battle 
 ship, four frigates, a brig and a schooner. 
 
 I shall call off Boston and write from there, and 
 continue crusing in the bay until I hear from you. 
 
 Respectfully, 
 
 Hon. Paul Hamilton, ISAAC HULL. 
 
 Sec*y of JVavy. 
 
 On Sunday, the 26th of July, the Constitution ar- 
 rived in Boston harbour. On Tuesday the 28th, 
 Capt. Hull came up to town. On his landing and 
 reaching State Street, he was received by his fellow 
 citizens with repeated huzzas. 
 
 [The following card was inserted, at the request 
 of Capt Hull, in the Exchange Coffee-House 
 Books.] 
 
 *' Capt. Hull, finding his friends in Boston are 
 correctly informed of his situation when chased by 
 the British squadron off New- York, and that they are 
 good enough to give him more credit by escaping 
 them than he ought to claim, takes this opportunity of 
 requesting them to make a transfer of a great part of 
 their good wishes to Lt. Morris, and the other brave 
 officers, and the crew under his command, for their 
 very great exertions and prompt attention to orders 
 while the enemv were in chase. Capt. Hull has 
 
8 NA^ \L MONUMENT. 
 
 great pleasure in saying, that notwithstanding the 
 length of the chase, and the officers and crew being 
 deprived of sleep, and allowed but little refreshment 
 during the time, not a murmur was heard to escape 
 them. 
 
 Interesting particulars. 
 
 Capt. Hull, in the management of his ship, during 
 her chase by the squadron under Com. Broke, dis- 
 played the most skilful and accomplished seamanship. 
 
 At a time when the wind was very light, the sails 
 of the Shannon were all furled, and the boats of the 
 squadron were all put to tow her directly to windward 
 toward the Constitution; at the same time Capt. 
 Hull was kedging his ship forward faster than the 
 enemy was able to advance by towing ; he had gained 
 a considerable distance, before the enemy, who were 
 constantly observing him with their glasses, perceived 
 the manner in which he was leaving. They then 
 kedged in their ftirn, but not with the same rapidity, 
 owing probably in some measure to the precaution 
 observed by Capt. Hull, when his boats came home, 
 instead of making them fast to the ship, of hoisting 
 them up at the davids. This manoeuvre of kedging 
 a ship at sea, in 25 or 30 fm's. water, was an ingen- 
 ious and novel experiment ; it was first suggested, it 
 is understood, by Lieut, [now Com.] C. Morris. 
 
 When the squall struck the Constitution, by which 
 she ultimately escaped, Capt. II. availed himself of 
 another stratagem to gain time. He was to windward 
 — the squall was powerful, and pressed her huge side 
 low in the water ; he immediately let every thing go 
 by the run, apparently in the utmost confusion, as if 
 unable to show a yard of canvass — his sails were haul- 
 ed up by the brails and clewlines ; the enemy, per- 
 ceiving this, hastened to get every thing snug, before 
 the gust sliould reach them : — but, no sooner had they 
 got their sails furled, than Capt. Hull had his courses 
 and topsails set, and the Constitution darted forward 
 with great rapidity. So coolly however did he pro- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 9 
 
 ceed, that he would not suffer one of his boats to be 
 cut adrift, but, though pressed by a pursuing enemy, 
 attended personally to hoisting in his launch and other 
 boats, while the ship was going nine or ten knots 
 through the water. This is a fact which will appear 
 astonishing to a sailor ; and he seemed to be the only 
 person in the ship who conceived it feasible : — the 
 British squadron cut adrift all their boats, and, after 
 they abandoned the chase, spent two or three whole 
 days in cruising to pick them up. 
 
 CAPTURE OF THE NAUTILUS. 
 
 Soon after the escape of the Constitution, the U. S. 
 brig Nautilus, \2 guns, Lt. Crane, was captured by 
 the above British squadron. The following letter is 
 honorary to Lt. Crane: 
 
 The Sec. of the navy to Lt. Ct^ane, late of the JVautilus. 
 Sir, JVavy department, 7 Oct. 1812. 
 
 The following is the opinion of the court of inquiry, 
 convened agreeably to your request, for the loss of the 
 U. S. brig JVautilus. 
 
 The court were unanimously and decidedly of opin- 
 ion, that in the capture of the late U. S. brig JVautilus, 
 Lieut. Crane, her late commander, and his officers, are 
 entirely free from the least blame, or censure, and do 
 consider Lt. Crane did every thing to prevent said 
 capture, that a skilful and experienced officer could 
 possibly do. 
 
 This opinion of the court. Sir, only confirms the 
 impression confidently entertained with respect to your 
 conduct on the occasion, to which it refers. 
 
 I have the honour to be respectfully. 
 
 Sir, your ob't serv't, 
 WilliamM. Crane, Esq. PAUL HAMILTON. 
 
 of the navy, Boston. 
 
 CONSTITUTION AND GUERRIERE. 
 
 U. S. Frigate Constitution, off Boston Light, 
 Sir, August 30, 1812. 
 
 I have the honor to inform you that on the 19th 
 
 2 
 
10 NAVAL MONUMENT 
 
 inst. at 1 P. M. being in lat. 41° 42' and long. 55" 48', 
 with the Constitution under my command, a sail was 
 discovered from the mast head bearing E. by S. or E. 
 S. E. but at such a distance we could not tell what 
 she was. All sail was instantly made in chase, and 
 soon found we came up with her. At 3 P. 31. could 
 plainly see that she was a ship on the starboard tack 
 under easy sail, close on a wind ; at i past 3 P. M. 
 made her out to be a frigate ; continued the chase un- 
 til we were within about three miles, when I ordered 
 the light sails to be taken in, the courses hauled up, 
 and the ship cleared for action. At this time the chase 
 had backed his maintop-sail, waiting for us to come 
 down. As soon as the Constitution was ready for 
 action, I bore down with intention to bring him to 
 close action immediately ; but on our coming within 
 gun-shot she gave us a broadside and filed away, and 
 wore, givins: us a broadside on the other tack, but with- 
 out effect ; her shot falling short. She continued wear- 
 ing and manoeuvering for about three quarters of an 
 hour, to get a raking position, but finding she could 
 not, she bore up, and run under her top-sails and gib, 
 with the wind on her quarter. I immediately made 
 sail to bring the ship up with her, and five minutes 
 before 6 P. M. being along side within half pistol-shot, 
 we commenced a heavy fire from all our guns, double 
 shotted with round and grape, and so well directed 
 were they, and so warmly kept up, that in 15 minutes 
 his mizen mast went by the board, and his main yard 
 in the slings and the hull, rigging, and sails very 
 much torn to pieces. The fire was kept up with equal 
 warmth for 15 minutes longer, when his mainmast and 
 foremast went, taking with them every spar, excepting 
 the bowsprit. On seeing this we ceased tiring, so 
 that in thirty minutes after, we got fairly along side 
 the enemy; she surrendered, and had not a spar stand- 
 ing, and her hull below and above water so shattered, 
 that a few more broadsides must have carried her down. 
 After informing you, that so fine a ship as the Cuer- 
 riere, commanded Ijy an able and experienced officer, 
 
—I 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 11 
 
 had been totally dismasted, and otherwise cut to pieces 
 so as to make her not worth towing into port, in the 
 short space of thirty minutes, you can have no doubt 
 of the gallantry and good conduct of the officers and 
 ship's company I have the honor to command ; it only 
 remains therefore for me to assure you, that they all 
 fought with great bravery ; and it gives me great 
 pleasure to say, that from the smallest boy in the ship 
 to the oldest seaman, not a look of fear was seen. 
 They all went into action, giving three cheers, and 
 requested to be laid close along side the enemy. 
 
 Enclosed I have the honor to send you a list of kil-. 
 led and wounded on board the Constitution, and a re- 
 port of the damages she has sustained ; also a list of 
 killed and wounded on board the enemy, with his quar- 
 ter bill, &/C. 
 
 I have the honor to be, with very great respect, 
 
 Sir, your ob't servt, 
 
 Hon. Paul Hamilton, &c. ISAAC HULL. 
 
 Return of killed and wounded on board the U. S. 
 Frigate Constitution, Isaac Hull Esq. Captain, in 
 the action ivith H. M. ship Guerriere, Jas. R. Da- 
 cres, Esq. Captain, on the 20th day of Aug. 1812. 
 
 Killed — Wm. S. Bush,* 1st Lt. marines ; Jacob 
 Sago, seaman ; Robert Brice, do ; John Brown, do ; 
 James Read, do.; Caleb Smith, do.; James Ashford, 
 do. 
 
 Wounded — Chas. Morris, 1st Lt. dangerously; 
 John C. Alwyn, master, slightly ; Richard Dunn, 
 seaman, dangerously ; Geo. Reynolds, ord. seaman, 
 dangerously; Daniel Lewis, do. dangerously; Owen 
 Taylor, do. dangerously; Francis Mullen, marine, 
 sUghtly. 
 
 Recapitulation. 
 
 Killed — One Lt. of marines' and six seamen. — 
 Total killed 7. ■ ^ 
 
 * Lieut. William S. Bush, was a native of Wilmington (Delaware.) His father, 
 Capt. John Kush was a meritorious officer in the revolutionary war, and he was 
 the nephew of the brave Major Lewis Bush, who fell supporting the cause of hiS 
 countrj at the battle of Brandy wine. 
 
\2 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Wounded — Two officers, four seamen and one ma- 
 rine. Total wounded 7. 
 
 Total killed and wounded, 14. 
 
 ISAAC HULL, Capt. 
 U. S. Frigate Constitution, T. J. CHEW, Purser. 
 Aug. 21, 1812. 
 
 List of killed and ivowided on board the Guerriere. 
 
 Killed — H. Ready, 2d Lt. and fourteen petty of- 
 ficers, seamen and marines. 
 
 Wounded — James R. Dacres, Capt. ; Bart. Kent, 
 Lt. ; Robert Scott, master ; Samuel Grant, master's 
 mate ; James Enslie, midshipman, and fifty seven pet- 
 ty officers, seamen and marines. 
 
 Missing — Lt. James Pullman, Mr. Gaston, and 
 twenty two seamen and marines. 
 
 The following particulars of the action, are com- 
 municated by an officer of the Constitution, and may 
 be considered as essentially correct. 
 
 Lat.' 41« 42' N. Ion. 55" 33' W. Thursday, Aug. 
 20, fresh breeze from N. W. and cloudy ; at 2 P. M. 
 discovered a vessel to the southward, made all sail in 
 in chase ; at 3, perceived the chase to be a ship on the 
 starboard tack, close hauled to the wind ; hauled S. S. 
 W.; at ^ past 3 made out the chase to be a frig- 
 ate ; at 4, coming up with the chase very fast; at i be- 
 fore 5, the chase laid her main-top-sail to the mast ; 
 took in our top-gallant-sails, stay-sails and flying-gib; 
 took a second reef in the top-sails, hauled the courses 
 up, sent the royal yards down, and got all clear for ac- 
 tion ; beat to quarters, on which the crew gave three 
 cheers ; at 5 the chase hoisted three English ensigns, 
 at 5 minutes past 5 the enemy commenced firing ; at 
 20 minutes past 5, set our colours, one at each mast- 
 head, and one at the mizcn-peak, and began firing on 
 the enemy, and continued to fire occasionally, he wear- 
 ing very often, and we maniruvcring to close with him, 
 and avoid being raked ; at G set the main-top-gallant 
 sail, the enemy having bore up ; at 5 minutes past six, 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 13 
 
 t)rought the enemy to close action, standing before the 
 wind ; at 15 minutes past 6, the enemy's mizen-mast 
 fell over on the starboard side ; at 20 minutes past 6, 
 finding we were drawing ahead of the enemy, luffed 
 short round his bows, to rake him ; at 25 minutes past 
 6, the enemy fell on board of us, his bow-sprit foul of 
 our mizen rigging. We prepared to board, but im- 
 mediately after, his fore and main mast went by the 
 board, and it was deemed unnecessary. Our cabin 
 had taken fire from his guns ; but soon extinguished, 
 without material injury ; at 30 minutes past 6, shot 
 ahead of the enemy, when the firing ceased on both 
 sides ; he making the signal of submission by firing a 
 gun to leeward ; set fore-sail and main-sail, and haul- 
 ed to the eastward to repair damages ; all our braces 
 and much of our standing and running rigging and 
 some of our spars being shot away. At 7 wore ship, 
 and stood under the lee of the prize — sent our boat on 
 board, which returned at 8, with Capt. Dacres, late 
 of his Majesty's ship Guerriere, mounting 49 car- 
 riage guns, and manned with 302 men; got our boats 
 out and kept them employed in removing the prisoners 
 and baggage from the prize to our own ship, ^ant a 
 surgeon's mate to assist in attending the wounded; 
 wearing ship occasionally to keep in the best position 
 to receive the boats. At 20 minutes before 2 A. M. 
 discovered a sail oft' the larboard beam, standing to 
 the south ; saw all clear for another action : at 3 the 
 sail stood oft* again ; at day light was hailed by the 
 Lieut, on board the prize, who informed he had four 
 ^eet of water in the hold, and that she was in a sink- 
 i {^ condition ; all hands employed in removing the 
 \ risoners, and repairing our own damage through the 
 remainder of the day. Friday the 21st, commenced 
 with light breezes from the northward, and pleasant ; 
 our boats and crew still employed as before. At 3 P. 
 M. made the signal of recal for our boats, having 
 received all the prisoners. They immediately left 
 her on fire, 'and k past 3 she blew up. Our loss in 
 the action was 7 killed and 7 wounded ; among the 
 
14 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 former, Lieut. Bush, of marines, and among the lat- 
 ter, Lieut. Morris, severely ; and Mr. Aylwin, the 
 master slightly. On the part of the enemy, 15 men 
 killed, and 64 wounded. Among the former. Lien' 
 Ready, 2d of the ship ; among the latter, Capt. D^ 
 \CRES, Lieut. Kent, 1st, Mr. Scott, master, ami 
 master's mate. 
 
 During her short cruise, the Constitution, beside 
 the above gallant achievement, has destroyed two En- 
 glish brigs ; one with lumber, the other in ballast, and 
 recaptured the Adeline of Bath, from London, with 
 dry goods, which had been taken by the British sloop 
 Avenger, Capt. Johnston, of 16 guns ; — and which 
 Capt. Hull manned and ordered for America. 
 
 When the Guerriere first came in sight of the Con- 
 stitution, she stood toward her as if with an intention 
 of bringing her to immediate action, and the latter put 
 herself under easy sail for her rece})tion : but after ap- 
 proaching sufficiently near, to observe her with accu- 
 racy, she bore up, stood broad otf from the wind, and 
 seemed inclined to take French leave; Capt. Hull was 
 compelled to crowd a press of sail upon his ship in or- 
 der to overtake his antagonist, who when he got with- 
 in gun-shot, commenced a cannonade; not a gun was 
 returned fr»om the Constitution, whose men were cool- 
 ly turned up to reef topsails, send down top-gallant 
 yards and swing the lower yards with chains ; this bu- 
 siness being etfected with deliberation and precision 
 under a iralling fire from the enemy, and without her- 
 self returning a single shot, the Constitution was ran- 
 ged along side of the enemy, and her fire opened with 
 such terrii)le effect, that in 25 minutes the Guerriere 
 was demolished ! 
 
 When the Guerriere' s mizen mast was shot away, 
 Capt. H. in the enthusiams of the moment, swung his 
 hat round his head, and in true sailor's |)hraze, ex- 
 claimed, '^ Huzza ! my boys! toe have made a brig of 
 her!'' 
 
 It is well known that when Lieut. Bush of the ma- 
 rines received his mortal wound, the Guerriere's bow- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 15 
 
 sprit was engaged in the mizen rigging of the Consti- 
 tution, and he was on the quarter for the purpose of 
 boarding. Lieut. Morris was in the same situation, 
 and received a musked ball through his body. Capt. 
 Hull was about joining them for the same purpose, 
 and when stepping upon the armchest, he was drawn 
 back by a sailor, who begged he would not get up 
 there unless he took off those swabs, pointing to his 
 epaulets. At that moment the two ships were so near 
 together, that one of our sailors, having discharged 
 his boarding pistol, and missed his object, threw the 
 pistol itself, and struck him in the breast. 
 
 The flag being shot away from the Constitution's 
 main-top-gallant mast head, John Hogan, a young sai- 
 lor, ascended amid a shower of bullets and lashed it 
 to the mast. This brave fellow enjoys a pension for 
 his intrepidity. 
 
 Lieutenant, (now Com.) Morris, has since been 
 promoted to the command of the frigate Adams, of 
 32 guns. He has ever been distinguished in the navy 
 for his unremitted application in the acquirement of 
 nautical information ; for activity, intelligence, and 
 zeal in the faithful discharge of his duty. His gallant 
 conduct, while under Commodore Preble, in the Tri- 
 politan war, gained him the confidence of his com- 
 mander, the admiration of his companions in arms, and 
 the applause of his countrymen. He was the -first man 
 who gained the deck of the frigate Philadelphia, on 
 that ever memorable night, when under the batteries of 
 the enemy, she was wrapt in flames by the Spartan 
 band, under Lieut. Decatur ; for which brilliant ex- 
 ploit the President most justly gave the latter a Cap- 
 tain's commission. When the Constitution made her 
 escape from the British squadron off the Capes of the 
 Chesapeake — to Lieut. Morris did the magnanimous 
 Hull give much of the credit acquired in that master- 
 ly retreat. Those who personally know the sterling 
 worth and intrinsic merit of Capt. Morris, cannot but re- 
 joice that his manly virtues and naval talents have now 
 a more ample field of exertion in his country's cause. 
 
16 • NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Capt. Hull, in a letter to the secretary of the navy, 
 passed a handsome eulogium of Capt Morris, in the 
 following passage: " I cannot but make you acquain- 
 ted with the very great assistance I received from that 
 valuable officer, Lieut. Morris, in bringing the ship in- 
 to action, and in working her whilst along side the en- 
 emy ; and I am extremely sorry to state, that he is 
 badly wounded, being shot through the body. We 
 have yet hopes of his recovery, when, I am sure, he 
 will receive the gratitude of his country for this and 
 the many gallant acts he has done in the service." 
 
 WASP AND FROLIC. 
 
 OFFICIAL LETTER OF CAPT. JONES. 
 
 Copy of a letter from Capt. Jones, late of the United 
 
 States' sloop of war, the Wasp, to the Secretary 
 
 of the JVavy. 
 
 Sir, JV. York, 24 JVov. 1812. 
 
 I HERE avail myself of the first opportunity of in- 
 forming you of the occurrences of our cruise, which 
 terminated in the capture of the IVasp on the ISth of 
 October, by the Poictiers of seventy four guns, while 
 a wreck, from damages received in an engagement with 
 the British sloop of war Frolic, of twenty two guns, 
 sixteen of them 321b. carronades, and four twelve 
 pounders on the main deck, and two t^velve pounders, 
 carronades, on the top-gallant forecastle, making her 
 superior in force to us by four twelve pounders. The 
 Frolic had struck to us, and was taken possession of 
 about two hours before our surrendering to the Poic- 
 tiers. 
 
 We had left the Delaware on the 13th. The 15th 
 liad a heavy gale, in which we lost our jib-boom and 
 two men. Half past eleven, on tlie niglit of the 17th, 
 in latitude 37° north, and longitude 65° west, we saw 
 several sail, two of tbem appearing very large; we 
 stood from them some time, tlien shortened sail, and 
 steered the remainder of the niglit the course we had 
 

 w 
 o 
 
 o 
 
 H 
 W 
 
 o 
 o 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 17 
 
 perceived them on. At day-light on Sunday the 18th, 
 we saw them ahead ; gave chase, and soon discovered 
 them to be a convoy of six sail under the protection of 
 a sloop of war : four of them large ships, mounting 
 from sixteen to eighteen guns. At 32 minutes past 
 eleven A. M. we engaged the sloop of war, having 
 first received her fire, at the distance of fifty or sixty 
 yards, which space we gradually lessened until we 
 laid her on board, after a well supported fire of 43 
 minutes ; and although so near while loading the last 
 broadside that our rammers were shoved against the 
 sides of tlie enemy, our men exhibited the same ala- 
 crity which they had done during the whole of the ac- 
 tion. They immediately surrendered upon our gain- 
 ing their forecastle, so that no loss was sustained on 
 either side after boarding. 
 
 Our main-top mast was shot away between 4 and 5 
 minutes from the commencement of the firing, and fall- 
 ing together with the main topsail yard across the lar- 
 board fore and fore topsail braces, rendered our head 
 yards unmanageable the remainder of the action. At 
 eight minutes the gaft and mizen top-gallant mast came 
 down, and at 20 minutes from the beginning of the ac- 
 tion, every brace and most of the rigging was shot away. 
 A few minutes after separating from the Frolic,hoth her 
 masts fell upon deck ; the mainmast going close by the 
 deck and the foremast twelve or fifteen feet above it. 
 
 The courage and exertions of the officers and crew 
 fully answered my expectations and wishes. Lieut. 
 Biddle's active conduct contributed much to our suc- 
 cess, by the exact attention paid to every department 
 during the engagement, and the animating example he 
 afforded the crew by his intrepidity. Lieuts. Rodg- 
 ers. Booth, and Mr. Rapp, shewed, by the encessant fire 
 from their division, that they were not to be surpassed 
 in resolution or skill. Mr. Knight, and every other 
 officer, acted with a courage and promptitude highly 
 honorable, and I trust have given assurance that they 
 may be relied on whenever their services may be re- 
 quired. 
 
 3 
 
18 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 I could not ascertain the exact loss of the enemy, 
 as many of the dead lay buried under the masts and 
 spars that had fallen upon deck, which two hours' ex- 
 ertion had not sufficiently removed. Mr. Biddle, who 
 had charge of the Frolic^ states, that from what he 
 saw, and from information from the officers, the num- 
 ber of killed must have been about 30, and that of 
 the wounded about 40 or 50. Of the killed is her 
 first Lieut, and sailing master ; of the wounded, Capt. 
 Whinyates, and the second Lieutenant. 
 
 We had 6 killed and 5 wounded, as per list : the 
 wounded are recovering. Lieut. Claxton, who was 
 confined by sickness, left his bed a little previous to 
 the engagement ; and though too indisposed to be at his 
 division, remained upon deck, and showed by his com- 
 posed manner of noting its incidents, that we had lost 
 by his illness the services of a brave officer. 
 
 I am respectfully yours, 
 
 Hon. Paul Hamilton, JACOB JONES.* 
 Sec'y of JYavy. 
 
 It is on the navy of the United States that our na- 
 tional pride, and our hopes of glory repose. We have 
 never been able to look without the highest satisfac- 
 tion on that fearless profession, the nursery of gener- 
 ous courage, and of high-minded patriotism — to whose 
 followers everv form of danger is alike familiar and 
 without terror. 
 
 Nor toil, nor hazard, nor distressd, appear 
 To sink tlie seanvn with uiuiianly fear ; 
 Who from the face of danger strive to turn, 
 Indignant from the social hour they spurn ; 
 No future ills, unknown, their souls appal, 
 They know no danger, or they scorn it all. 
 
 But we have no language to convey our admiration 
 of the young and gallent spirits, who in the first essays 
 of their strength, have triuinj>hed over the veteran sci 
 ence, and the disciplined valor, of the habitual con- 
 querors of the ocean. They have retrieved all our 
 
 * Capt. Jones is a native of Kent county, state of Delaware. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 19 
 
 disasters ; they have shed new lustre on our arms, and 
 sustained, even in the midst of mortifying reverses, the 
 loftiest tone of national enthusiasm. Their only anxie- 
 ty has been to find the enemies of their country ; and, 
 wherever they have met them, their valor has rendered 
 victory certain, whilst their skill has made it easy. 
 
 Devoted, as is this monument, to all that can add 
 ho«or or distinction to the national character, it has 
 no fairer pages than those which record instances of 
 bravery like the following, the account of which we 
 have rendered scrupulously minute and authentic. 
 
 The United States' sloop of war the Wasp, com- 
 manded by Capt. Jacob Jones, was crusing in long. 65" 
 W. and lat. 37 " N. the track of vessels passing^from 
 Bermuda to Halifax, when, on Saturday, the 17th of 
 October, about 11 o'clock, in a clear moon-light even- 
 ing, she found herself near five strange sail, steerino- 
 eastward. As some of them seemed to be ships of war, 
 it was thought better to get farther from them. The 
 Wasp therefore haled her wind, and having reached a 
 few miles to windward, so as to escape or fight as the 
 occasion might require, followed the strange sail 
 through the night. At daybreak, on Sunday morning, 
 Capt. Jones found that they were six large merchant 
 ships, under convoy of a sloop of war which proved 
 to be the Frolic, Capt. Whinyates, from Honduras to 
 England, with a convoy, strongly armed and manned, 
 having all forty or fit>y men ; and two of them mount- 
 ing sixteen guns each. He determined, however, to 
 attack them, and as there was a heavy swell of the sea, 
 and the weather boisterous, got down his top-gallant 
 yards, close reefed the topsails, and prepared for ac- 
 tion. About eleven o'clock the Frolic showed Span- 
 ish colors; and the Wasp immediately displayed the 
 American ensign and pendant. At thirty-two minutes 
 past eleven, the Wasp came down to windward, on 
 her larboard side, within about sixty yards, and haih^d. 
 The enemy hauled down the Spanish colors, hoisted 
 the British ensign, and o})ened a fire of cannon and 
 musketry. This the Wasp instantly returned ; and, 
 
20 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 coming nearer to the enemy, the action became close, 
 and without intermission. In four or five minutes the 
 main topmast of the Wasp was shot away, and, faUing 
 down with the main topsail yard across the larboard, 
 fore and fore topsail braces, rendered her head yards 
 unmanageable during the rest of the action. In two 
 or three minutes more her gaft and mizen top-gallant 
 sail were shot away. Still she continued a close and 
 constant fire. The sea was so rough that the muzzles 
 of the Wasp's guns were frequently in the water. 
 The Americans, therefore, fired as the ship's side was 
 going down, so that their shot went either on the ene- 
 my's deck or below it, while the English fired as the 
 vessel rose, and thus her balls chiefly touched the rig- 
 ging, or were thrown away. The Wasp now shot 
 ahead of the Frolic, raked her, and then resumed her 
 position on her larboard bow. Her fire was now ob- 
 viously attended with such success, and that of the 
 Frolic so slackened, that Capt. Jones did not wish to 
 board her, lest the roughness of the sea might endan- 
 ger both vessels ; but, in the course of a few minutes 
 more, every brace of the Wasp was shot away, and 
 her rigging so much torn to piece, that he was afraid 
 that his masts, being unsupported, would go by the 
 board, and the Frolic be able to escape. He thought, 
 therefore, the best chance of securing her was to 
 board, and decide the contest at once. With this 
 view, he wore ship, and, running down upon the ene- 
 my, the vessels struck each other, the Wasp's side 
 rubbing along the Frolic's bow, so that her jib-boom 
 came in between the main and mizen rigging of the 
 Wasp, directly over the heads of Capt. Jones and the 
 first Lieutenant, Mr. Biddle, who were at that moment 
 standing together near the capstan. The Frolic lay so 
 fair for raking, that they decided not to board until they 
 had given a closing broadside. Whilst they were 
 loading for this, so near were the two vessels, that the 
 rammers of the Wasp were pushed against the Frolic's 
 sides, and two of her guns went through the bow ports 
 of the Frolic, and swept the whole length of her deck. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 2\ 
 
 At this moment, Jack Lang,* a seaman of the Wasp, 
 a gallant fellow, who had been once impressed by a 
 British man of war, jumped on his gun with his cut- 
 lass, and was springing on board the Frolic: Capt. 
 Jones, wishing to fire again before boarding called him 
 down ; but his impetuosity could not be restrained, and 
 he was already on the bowsprit of the Frolic, when, 
 seeing the ardour and enthusiasm of the Wasp's crew, 
 Lieut. Biddle mounted on the hammoc cloth to board. 
 At this signal the crew followed ; but Lieut. Biddle's 
 feet got entangled in the rigging of the enemy's bow- 
 sprit, and midshipman Baker, in his ardor to get on 
 board, laying holdof his coat, he fell back on the Wasp's 
 deck. He sprang up, and as the next swell of the sea 
 brought the Frolic nearer, he got on her bowsprit, 
 where Lang and another seaman were already. He 
 passed them on the forecastle, and was surprised at 
 seeing not a single man alive on the Frolic's deck, ex- 
 cept the seaman at the wheel and three officers. The 
 deck was slippery with blood, and strewed with the 
 bodies of the dead. As he went forward, the Captain 
 of the Frolic, with two other officers, who were stand- 
 ing on the quarter deck, threw down their swords, and 
 made an inclination of their bodies, denoting that they 
 had surrendered. At this moment the colors were still 
 flying, as, probably, none of the seamen of the Frolic 
 would dare to go into the rigging for fear of the mus- 
 ketry of the Wasp. Lieut. Biddle, therefore, jumped 
 into the rigging himself, and hauled down the British 
 ensign, and possession was taken of the Frolic in 43 
 minutes after the first fire. She was in a shocking con- 
 dition; the birth deck, particularly, was crowded with 
 dead, and wounded, and dying ; there being but a small 
 proportion of the Frolic's crew who had escaped. Capt. 
 Jones instantly sent on board his surgeon's mate, and 
 all the blankets of the Frolic were brought from the 
 slop room for the comfort of the wounded. To increase 
 
 •John Lang was a native of New Brunswick, in New Jersey. We mention 
 with great pleasure, the name of this brave American seaman, as a proof that con- 
 spicuous valor is confined to no rank in the naval service 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 this confusion, both the Frolic's masts soon fell, cov- 
 ering the dead and every thing on deck, and she lay a 
 complete wreck. 
 
 It now appears that the Frolic mounted sixteen 321b. 
 carronades, four 12 pounders on the main deck, and 
 two 121b. carronades. She was, therefore, superior to 
 the Wasp, by exactly four twelve pounders. The num- 
 ber of men on board, as stated by the officers of the 
 Frolic, was one hundred and ten — the number of sea- 
 men on board the Wasp, was one hundred and two ; 
 " but it could not be ascertained, whether in this one hun- 
 dred and ten, were included marines and officers ; for 
 the Wasp had, besides her one hundred and two men, 
 officers and marines, making the whole crew about one 
 hundred and thirty five. — What however, is decisive, 
 as to their comparative force is, that the officers of the 
 Frolic acknowledged that they had as many men as 
 they knew what to do with, and, in fact, the Wasp 
 could have spared fifteen men. There was, therefore, 
 on the most favorable view, at least an equality of 
 men, and an inequality of four guns. The disparity 
 of loss was much greater. The exact number of kill- 
 ed and wounded on board the Frolic could not be pre- 
 cisely determined ; but from the observations of our 
 officers, and the declarations of those of the Frol- 
 ic, the number could not be less than about thirty 
 killed, including two officers ; and of the wounded, 
 between forty and fifty ; the Captain and second Lieut, 
 being of the number. The Wasp had five men killed, 
 and five slightly wounded. 
 
 All hands were now employed in clearing the deck, 
 burying the dead, and taking care of the wounded, 
 when Captain Jones sent orders to Lieut. Biddle to 
 proceed to Charlestown, or any southern port of the 
 United Slates ; and, as there was a suspicious sail to 
 the windward, the Was}) would continue her cruise. 
 Th(^ shii)s then parted. The suspicious sail was now 
 coming down very fast. At first it was supposed that 
 she was oneof tiie convoy, who had all lied during the 
 engagement, and who now came for the purpose of at- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 23 
 
 tacking the prize. The guns of the Frohc were, there- 
 fore, loaded, and the ship cleared for action ; but the 
 enemy, as she advanced, proved to be a seventy-four, 
 the Poictiers, Capt. Beresford. She fired a shot over 
 the Frolic ; passed her ; overtook the Wasp, the disa- 
 bled state of whose rigging prevented her from escaping; 
 and then returned to the Frolic, who could of course, 
 make no resistance. The Wasp and Frolic were car- 
 ried into Bermuda. It is not the least praise due to 
 Capt. Jones, that his account of this gallant action, is 
 perfectly modest and unostentatious. On his own 
 share in the capture, it is unnecessary to add any thing. 
 *'The courage and exertion of the oificers and crew," 
 he observes, "fully answered my expectations and wish- 
 es. Lieut. Biddle's active conduct contributed much 
 to our success, by the exact attention paid to every 
 department, during the engagement, and the animating 
 example he afforded the crew by his intrepidity Lieut. 
 Rodgers and Booth, and Mr. Rapp, showed by the 
 incessant fire from their divisions, that they were not 
 to be surpassed in resolution or skill. Mr. Knight and 
 every other oflicer, acted with a courage and promti- 
 tude highly honorable. Lieut. Claxton, who was 
 confined by sickness, left his bed a little previous to 
 the engagement ; and, though too weak to be at his 
 division, remained upon deck, and showed, by his com- 
 posed manner of noting its incidents, that we had lost, 
 by his illness, the services of a brave officer." 
 
 UNITED STATES AND MACEDONIAN. 
 
 Message of the President of the United States, com- 
 municating to congress the official letters of Cap- 
 tains Decatur and Jones. 
 
 To the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
 
 United States. 
 I TRANSMIT to Cougrcss a copy of a letter to the 
 Secretary of the navy, from Capt. Decatur, of the 
 
24 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 frigate United States, reporting his combat and cap- 
 ture of the British frigate Macedonian. 
 
 Too much praise cannot be bestowed on that officer 
 and his companions on board, for the consummate 
 skill and conspicuous valour by which this trophy has 
 been added to the naval arms of the United States. 
 
 I transmit also a letter * from Capt Jones, who com- 
 manded the sloop of war Wasp, reporting his capture 
 of the British sloop of war, the Frolic, after a close 
 action, in which other brilliant titles will be seen to 
 the public admiration and praise. 
 
 A nation feeling what it owes to itself, and its citi- 
 zens, could never abandon to arbitrary violence on the 
 ocean, a class of men, which gives such examples of 
 capacity and courage, in defending their rights on that 
 element ; examples, which ought to impress on the 
 enemy, however brave and powerful, a preference of 
 justice and peace to hostility against a country whose 
 prosperous career may be accelerated, but cannot be 
 prevented by the assaults made on it. 
 
 JAMES MADISON. 
 Washington, Dec. 11, 1812. 
 
 coBi. Decatur's official letter to the secretary 
 
 OF the navy. 
 
 U. S. ship, United States, at sea. 
 Sir, Oct. 30, 1812. 
 
 I have the honor to inform you, that on the 25th 
 inst. being in latitude 29" N. longitude 29*" 30' W. we 
 fell in with, and after an action of an hour and a half, 
 captured his Britannic Majesty's ship Macedonian, 
 commanded by caj)tain John Garden, and mounting 49 
 carriage guns, (the odd gun shifting.) She is a frig- 
 ate of the largest class two years old, four months out 
 of dock, and reputed one of the best sailers in the 
 British service. The enemy, being to windward, had 
 the advantage of engaging us at his own distance, 
 
 * Which see uiiW. p. 14. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT.. 25 
 
 which was so great, that for the first half hour, we 
 did not use our caronades, and at no moment was he 
 within the complete effect of our musketry and grape; 
 to this circumstance, and a heavy swell, whir'a was on 
 at the time, I ascribe the unusual length of ihe action. 
 
 The enthusiasm of every officer, seaman and marine 
 on board this ship, on discovering the enemy — their 
 steady conduct in battle, and precision of their fire, 
 could not be surpassed. Where all met my fullest 
 expectations, it would be unjust in me to discriminate. 
 Permit me, however, to recommend to your particular 
 notice, my first Lieut. AVilliam H. Allen. He has 
 served with me upwards of five years, and to his un- 
 remitted exertions in disciplining the crew, is to be 
 imputed the obvious superiority of our gunnery exhib- 
 ited in the result of this contest. 
 
 Subjoined is a list of the killed and wounded on both 
 sides. Our loss compared with that of the enemy, 
 will appear small. Amongst our wounded you will 
 observe the name of Lieut. Funk, who died a few 
 hours after the action ; he was an officer of great gall- 
 antry and promise, and the service has sustained a se- 
 vere loss in his death. 
 
 The Macedonian lost her mizen mast, fore and 
 main topmasts and main yard, and was much cut up 
 in her hull. — The damage sustained by this ship was 
 not such as to render her return into port necessary ; 
 and had I not deemed it important that we should see 
 our prize in, should have continued our cruise. 
 
 With the highest consideration and respect, I am, 
 sir, your obedient humble servant, 
 Hon. Paul Hamilton. STEPHEN DECATUR. 
 
 List of killed and wounded on board the 
 
 United States. 
 
 Killed — One seaman and five marines. 
 
 Wounded — John Musser Funk, Philadelphia, 
 Lieut, and six others. 
 
 On board the Macedonian, there were thirty-six kil- 
 led, and sixty-eight wounded : among the former were 
 4 
 
2fi NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 the boatswain, one master's mate and the school-mas- 
 ter; ot^ the latter, were the first and third Lieuts. one 
 master's mate and two midshipmen. 
 
 At a meeting of the yomig men of Lancaster, Pa. 
 the following resolution, honorary to Lieut. Funk, was 
 passed : 
 
 Whereas, with the deepest regret we have been ap- 
 prised of the untimely death of our friend and fellow 
 citizen, Lt. John Musser Funk, who fell gloriously 
 fighting in the cause of his country, in the engagement 
 between the frigate United States and the Macedoni- 
 an, which ended in the brilliant victory of the United 
 States over the British frigate. 
 
 Resolved, That as a testimony of our grief at the 
 loss of the companion of our youth, our respect for his 
 virtues, and the high estimation in which we hold his 
 memory, we will wear crape on the left arm for the 
 space of thirty days. 
 
 John Archibald died of his wounds soon after. He 
 left three children to the mercy of the world and a 
 worthless mother, who had abandoned them. When 
 his father went on board the frigate to claim the wa- 
 ges and property of his son, an inquiry into the cir- 
 cumstances of the family took place, and a plan was 
 agreed upon by the seamen for the relief of the or- 
 phans, and two dollars apiece was immediately sub- 
 scribed, amounting to about eight hundred, for the 
 maintenance and education of the bereaved infants to 
 be placed in the hands of suitable trustees. 
 
 Address of Thanks. 
 
 The father of tlie deceased John Archibald, who fell 
 in the gallant action on board the United States, un- 
 der tlie connnand of thclieroic Com. Stephen Decatur, 
 avails himself of thus publicly returning his most sin- 
 cere thanks to the commander for his humanity and 
 benevolence to him, and also to his gallant ollicers and 
 seamen, many of whom, are personally acquainted with 
 the deceased's father, for having contributed largely 
 and honourably towards the suj)port of the said de- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 27 
 
 ceased's three orphan children ; which clearly demon- 
 strate that the American seamen are possessed both of 
 courage and humanity. 
 
 Capt. Garden spoke in the highest terms of appro 
 bation of the conduct of Com. Decatur and his officers. 
 All the private property of the officers and men on 
 board the Macedonian was given up. That claimed 
 by Capt. Carden, (including a band of musick and 
 several casks of wine) valued at about 800 dollars, the 
 Comodore — whose soul is as liberal as brave — paid him 
 for. Generosity could not have been more properly 
 applied. Capt. Carden has been distinguished for his 
 civilities to such Americans as he met at sea before the 
 war. ■ • 
 
 The frigate United States is 176 feet deck, and 42 
 feet beam — her gun deck is 6 feet 6 inches high — she 
 has 15 port holes on a side — and carries 24 pounders 
 on her main deck. 
 
 The Mac dmian, is 166 feet deck— 42 feet 8 inch- 
 es beam — her gun deck is 6 feet 10 inches high — she 
 has 15 port holes on a side — and carries 18 pounders 
 on her main deck. The Macedonian is said to be the 
 best model for a frigate, and was accounted the most 
 completely fitted vessel in the service. 
 
 An officer of the United States frigate, speaking of 
 Decatur's victory, says, 
 
 " I am well aware it will be said, the Macedonian 
 is a little ship, with five guns less than the United 
 States, and a hundred men less, and carries lighter 
 metal &c. Well, all this is true — she is inferior in all 
 these, but she is just such a ship as the English have 
 achieved all their single ship victories in ; it was in 
 such a ship that Sir Robert Barlow took the Afri- 
 caine, that Sir Michael Seymour took the Brune, 
 and afterwards the Memen, that Capt. Milne took 
 the Vengeance, Capt. Cooke the La/or/e, Capt. La- 
 vie, the Guerriere, Capt. Rowley, the Venus, and 
 God knows how many others :— She is in tonnage, 
 men and guns, such a ship as the English prefer to all 
 others, and have, till the Guerriere's loss, always 
 
28 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 thought a match for any single decked ship afloat. 
 You will observe the ship was just out of dock, her 
 masts were better than the Guerriere's. She had ta- 
 ken no prizes ; her complement was full. She was 
 not built of fir, thirty years ago, as was said of that 
 ship, but of the best Enghsh oak, two years since. 
 
 CONSTITUTION AND JAVA. 
 
 House of Representatives of the United States, 
 
 Monday y February 22, 1813. 
 
 To the Senate and House of Representatives. 
 
 1 LAY before congress a letter with accompanying 
 documents from Capt. Bainbridge, now command- 
 ing the United States frigate "the Constitution," 
 reporting his capture and destructon of the British 
 frigate ''Java." The circumstances and the issue of 
 this combat afford another example of the profes- 
 sional skill and heroic spirit which prevail in our na- 
 val service. The signal display of both by Capt. 
 Bainbridge, his oflicers and crew command the highest 
 praise. This being the second instance in which the 
 condition of the captured ship, by rendering it imposs- 
 ible to get her into port, has barred a contemplated 
 reward for successful valor, I recommend to the con- 
 sideration of congress equity and propriety of a gener- 
 al provision, allowing in such cases, both past and fu- 
 ture, a fair proportion of the value which would accrue 
 to the captors on the safe arrival and sale of the prize. 
 
 JAMES MADISON. 
 
 U. S. frigate Constitution, St. Salvador, 
 
 SiRj January 3, 1813. 
 
 I HAVE the honor to inform you that on the 29th ult. 
 at 2 P. M., in south hit. 13° 6', and west long. 38% 
 about 10 leagues distant from the coast of Brazil, I fell 
 in with and captured his B. M. frigate Java, of 49 guns 
 and upwards of 400 men, commanded by Capt. Lam- 
 bert, a very distinguished oliicer. Tiie action lasted 1 
 
iSMiS'""'^ 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 29 
 
 hour 55 minutes, in which time the enemy was com- 
 pletely dismasted, not having a spar of any kind stand- 
 ing. The loss on board the Constitution, was 9 kill 
 ed and 25 wounded, as per enclosed list. The enemy 
 had 60 killed and 101 wounded, certainly, (among the 
 latter Capt. Lambert, mortally) but by the enclosed 
 letter, written on board this ship, by one of the officers 
 of the Java, and accidentally found, it is evident that 
 the enemy's wounded must have been much greater 
 than as above stated, and who must have died of their 
 wounds previously to their being removed. The let- 
 ter states 60 killed and 1 70 wounded. 
 
 For further details of the action, I beg leave to refer 
 you to the enclosed extracts from my Journal. The 
 Java had, in addition to her own crew, upwards of 
 one hundred supernumerary officers and seamen to 
 join the British ships of war in the East Indies : also 
 Lieut. General Hislop, appointed to the command of 
 Bombay : Maj. Walker and Capt. AVood of his staff, 
 and Capt. Marshall, master and commander in the 
 British navy, going to the East Indies to take command 
 of a sloop of war there. 
 
 Should I attempt to do justice by representation to 
 the brave and good conduct of all my officers and crew 
 during the action, I should fail in the attempt ; there- 
 fore suffice it to say, that the whole of their conduct 
 was such as to merit my highest encomiums. I beg 
 leave to recommend the officers particularly to the no- 
 tice of the government, as also the unfortunate seamen 
 who were wounded, and the families of those brave 
 men who fell in the action. 
 
 The great distance from our own coast and the per- 
 fect wreck we made the enemy's frigate, forbade every 
 idea of attempting to take her to the United States ; 
 I had therefore no alternative but burning her, which 
 I did on the 31st ult, after receiving all the prisoners 
 and their baggage, which was very hard work, only 
 having one boat left out of eight, and not one left on 
 board the Java. 
 
 On blowing up the frigate Java, I proceeded to 
 
30 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 this place, where I have landed all the prisoners on 
 their parole to return to England, and there remain 
 until regularly exchanged, and not to serve in their 
 professional capacities in any place, or in any manner 
 whatsoever against the United States of America, un- 
 til their exchange shall be affected. 
 
 I have the honor to be, &.c. 
 (Signed) W. BAINBRIDGE. 
 
 To the Secretary of the JVavy. 
 List of killed and wounded on hoard the Constitution. 
 
 Killed — Jonas Ongrain, seamen ; Joseph Adams, 
 do-; Patrick Conner, do.; Barney Hart, do. ; John 
 Cheever, do.; Mark Snow, do.; John D. Allen, do.; 
 Wm. Cooper, do.; Thomas Hanson, private marine. 
 
 Wounded — Wm. Bainbridge, commander, severe- 
 ly ; John C. Aylwin, lieut. do.; Chas. F. Waldo, 
 masters's mate, do.; and twenty one others. 
 
 (Signed) AMOS R. EVANS, Surgeon, 
 
 R. C. LUDLOW, Purser, 
 W. BAINBRIDGE. 
 
 John Cheever was mortally wounded in the late ac- 
 tion with the Java. Whilst lying on the deck, appa- 
 rently dying, the word was passed the enemy had 
 struck. He raised himself up with one hand, gave 
 three cheers, fell back, and expired ! Heroic specimen 
 of the genuine patriotism of American tars ! He had 
 a brother, Joseph P. Cheever, killed in the same ac- 
 tion. They have left an aged and helpless mother at 
 Marblehead, who depended entirely on the fruits of 
 their industry for a subsistence. 
 
 At a public dinner, at the Exchange Coffoe house, 
 in Boston, given in honor of Capt. Bainbridge, March 
 2, 1813, the Hon. Christopher Gore, president of the 
 day, announced in an affecting and eloquent address, 
 that the money arising from the subscription, which was 
 usually a})pr()priated to decorations, had been on this 
 occasion, reserved for the benefit of the widow Cheev- 
 er, who had lost in the battle with the Java, her only 
 two sons, her stay and support ; and he offered this to 
 the Connnodore as an apology for an omission of dec- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 31 
 
 t 
 
 orations of the hall, as had been usual, and doubted 
 not it would be acceptable. The Commodore expres- 
 sed his grateful sense of the compliment implied in the 
 apology ; and all present felt that the compliment was 
 justly due. 
 
 Lieut. Aylwin died, at sea, Jan. 28, 1813, on board 
 the U. S. frigate Constitution, of wounds received in 
 the action with the Java. He entered the service 
 about the time war was declared, as a sailing master, 
 and was promoted. to a lieutenant for his gallant con- 
 duct in the action with the Guerriere. He was an 
 officer of great merit, much esteemed by all who had 
 the pleasure of his acquaintance. In him his country 
 has suffered great loss. He had seen much of the 
 world, and improved his- opportunities of observation-; 
 possessed a strong mind, and a benevolent disposition. 
 
 In the action with the Guerriere, he stood on an el- 
 evated situation by the side of his comrades, Morris 
 and Bush, at the time the two vessels came in contact, 
 and was wounded in the left shoulder by a musket 
 ball. In the late action he commanded the forecastle 
 division ; and his deliberate bravery and marked cool- 
 ness throughout the contest, gained him the admiration 
 of his commander, and all who had an opportunity 
 of witnessing it. When boarders were called to re- 
 pel boarders, he mounted the quarter deck hammock- 
 cloths ; and, in the act of firing his pistol at the ene- 
 my, he received a ball through the same shoulder. 
 Notwithstanding the serious nature of his wound, he 
 continued at his post until the enemy struck. A few 
 days after the action, although labouring under consid- 
 erable debility, and the most excruciating pain, he lefl 
 his bed, and repaired to quarters, when an engagement 
 was expected with a ship, which afterwards proved to 
 be the Hornet. He bore his pain with great and unu- 
 sual fortitude, and expired without a groan. 
 
 The following is a list of his Britannic Majesty's 
 military and naval officers and crew, paroled at St. 
 Salvador (Brazil) by Com. William Bainbridge, 3d 
 Jan. 1813. 
 
32 ' NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 I 
 
 t 
 
 1 Lieutenant general, 1 major, 1 captain, military 
 officers ; 1 post captain, I master and commandant, 
 5 lieutenants, 3 lieutenants of marines, 1 surgeon, 2 as- 
 sisting surgeons, 1 purser, 15 midshipmen, 1 gunner, 
 1 boatswain, 1 master, 1 carpenter, 2 captain's clerks, 
 S8; and 323 petty officers, seamen, marines and boys, 
 exclusive of 9 Portuguese seamen liberated and given 
 up to the governor of St. Salvador, and 3 passengers, 
 private characters, whom the Commodore did not con- 
 sider prisoners of war, and permitted them to land 
 without any restraint. 
 
 EXTRACT FROM COM. BAINBRIDGE's JOURNAL. 
 
 "Tuesday December 29, 1812— At 9 A. M.discov- 
 ered two strange sails on the weather bow. At 10 
 discovered the strange sails to be ships : one of them 
 stood in for the land, and the other stood off shore, in 
 a direction towards us. At 45 minutes past 10 A. M. 
 we tacked ship to the northward and westward, and 
 stood for the sail standing towards us ; at 11 A. M. 
 tacked to the southward and eastward, hauled up the 
 mainsail and took in the royals. At 30 minutes past 
 11, made the private signal for the day, which was not 
 answered, and then set the mainsail and royals to 
 draw the strange sail off from the neutral coast, and 
 separate her from the sail in company. 
 
 ''Wednesday, 30 Dec. {nautical time) lat. 13" 6' 
 S. Ion. 31" W. ten leagues from the coast of Brazil, 
 commenced with clear weather and moderate breezes 
 from E. N. E. hoisted our ensign and pendant. At 
 15 minutes past meridian, the ship hoisted her colours, 
 an English ensign, having a signal flying at main. 
 
 "At 26 minutes past 1 P. M. being sufficiently from 
 land, and finding the ship to be an English frigate, took 
 in the main sail and royals, tacked ship, and stood for 
 the enemy. At 50 minutes past 1 P. M. the enemy 
 bore down with an intention of raking us which we 
 avoided by wearing. At 2 P. M. (he enemy being 
 within half a mile of us, and to windward, and having 
 hauled down his colours, except the union jack at the 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 33 
 
 rnizen mast head, induced me to give orders to the offi- 
 cer of the third division to fire a gun ahead of the en 
 emy, to make him show his colours, which being done, 
 brought on a fire from us of the whole broadside, on 
 which the enemy hoisted his colors, and immediately 
 returned our fire. A general action, with round and 
 grape, then commenced ; the enemy keeping at a much 
 greater distance than I wished : but could not bring 
 him to a closer action, without exposing ourselves to 
 several rakes. Considerable manoeuvres were made 
 by both vessels to rake and avoid being raked. The 
 following minutes were taken during the action : 
 
 "At 10 minutes past 2 P. M. commenced the action 
 within good grape and canister distance, the enemy to 
 windward, (but much farther than I wished.) At 30 
 minutes past 2, our wheel was shot entirely away. 
 At 40 minutes past 2, determined to close with the en- 
 emy, notwithstanding his raking. Set the fore and 
 mainsail, and lufi*ed up close to him. At 50 minutes 
 past 2, the enemy's jib-boom got foul of our mizen 
 rigging. At 3, the head of the enemy's bowsprit and 
 jib-boom shot away by us. At 5 minutes past 3, shot 
 away the enemy's foremast by the board. At 15 min- 
 utes past 3, shot away his main topmast just above the 
 cap. At 40 minutes past 3, shot away the gaft and 
 spanker boom. At 55 minutes past 3, shot away his 
 mizen mast nearly by the board. At 5 minutes past 4, 
 having silenced the fire of the enemy completely, and 
 his colours in the main rigging being down, we sup- 
 posed he had struck ; we then hauled down courses 
 and shot ahead to repair our rigging, which was ex- 
 tremely cut ; leaving the enemy a complete wreck; soon 
 after discovered that the enemy's flag was still flying. 
 Hove to, to repair some of our damage. At 20 min- 
 utes past 4, the enemy's mainmast went nearly by tlu3 
 board. At 50 minutes past four, wore ship and stood 
 for the enemy. At 25 minutes past 5, got very close 
 to the enemy in a very effectual raking position, ath- 
 wart his bows, and was at the very instant of raking 
 him when he most prudently struck his flag — for had 
 
 5 
 
34 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 he suffered the broadside to have raked him, his addi- 
 tional loss must have been extremely great, as he laid 
 an unmanageable wreck upon the water." 
 
 The following correspondence exhibits the character 
 of Capt. Bainbridge in a hght so honorable, and so 
 well calculated to exalt the national character, that we 
 are happy in the opportunity of giving it publicity. 
 
 GENERAL HISLOP TO COM. BAINBRIDGE. 
 
 Dear Sir, St. Salvador, January 3, 1813. 
 
 I am justly penetrated with the fullest sense of your 
 very handsome and kind treatment, ever since the fate 
 of war placed me in your power, and I beg once more 
 to renew to you my sincere acknowledgments for 
 the same. 
 
 Your acquiescence with my request in granting me 
 my parole, with the officers of my staff, added to the 
 obligations I had previously experienced, claims from 
 me this additional tribute of my thanks. May I now 
 finally flatter myself, that in the further extension of 
 your generous and humane feelings, in the alleviations 
 of the misfortunes of war, that you will have the good- 
 ness to fulfil the only wish and request I am now most 
 anxious to see completed, by enlarging on their parole 
 (on the same conditions you have acceded to with res- 
 pect to myself) all the officers of the Java still on 
 board your ship, a favour I shall never cease duly to 
 appreciate by your acquiescence thereto. 
 
 I have the honour to subscribe myself, dear sir, 
 your most obliged and very humble servant, 
 (Signed) T. HISLOP. 
 
 Com. Bainbridge. 
 
 ANSWER OF COM. BAINBRIDGE. 
 
 United States frigate Constitution. 
 Dear Sir, St. Salvador, Jan. 3, 1813. 
 
 1 Iwive received your letter of this date conveying, 
 sentiments of your feelings for my treatment towards 
 you since the fate of war placed you in my power. 
 The kiiiu expressions which you have been pleased to 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 35 
 
 use, are justly appreciated by me, and far overbalance 
 those common civilities shewn by me, and which are 
 always due to prisoners. I regret that the lumbered 
 state of my ship prevented me from making you as 
 comfortable on board, as I sincerely wished to have 
 done. I have complied with your last request, respec- 
 ting paroling all the officers of the Java. In doing so, 
 your desire, in addition to my disposition to ameliorate 
 as much as possible the situation of those officers, 
 considerably influenced me. 
 
 Permit me to tender you (notwithstanding our res- 
 pective countries are at war) assurances of sincere es- 
 teem and high respect, and to assure you that I shall 
 feel at all times highly gratified in hearing of or from 
 you. 
 
 With fervent wishes for the recovery of the gallant 
 Capt. Lambert, I have the honor to subscribe myself, 
 very respectfullv, &-c. 
 
 {Signed) W. BAINBRIDGE. 
 
 Lieut. Gen. Hislop, of the British army. 
 
 GENERAL HISLOP TO COM. BAINBRIDGE. 
 
 4 
 
 Dear Sir, St. Salvador, Jan. 4. 1813. 
 
 Allow me once more to express my sincerest ac- 
 knowledgments for this last instance of your kind atten- 
 tion to my wishes, by having complied with my request 
 in behalf of the officers of the Java. Lieut. Chads 
 delivered to me your very polite and obliging letter, 
 and be assured that I shall feel no less gratification 
 at all times to hear of and from you, than that which 
 you are so good as to express you will derive in re- 
 ceiving information respecting myself. 
 
 May I request now that you \vill be so good as to 
 cause to be looked for a small chest, containing articles 
 of plate, more valuable to me on account of having 
 been presented to me by the colony of Demarara, 
 where I commanded for several years. 
 
 I have the honor to be &c. 
 (Signed) T. HISLOP. 
 
 Com. Bainbridge. 
 
36 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Lieut. Chads presents his compliments to Com. 
 Bainbridge, and is extremely sorry to inform him, 
 Capt. Lambert died a short time since. 
 
 St. Salvador, Monday II o'clock. 
 
 COM. BAL\BRIL)GE TO LIEUT. CIFADS 
 
 January 4, 1813. 
 Com. Bainbridge has learnt with real sorrow the 
 death of Capt. Lambert. Though a political enemy, 
 he could not but greatly respect him for the brave de- 
 fence he made with his ship : and Com. Bainbridge 
 takes this occasion to observe, in justice to Lieut. 
 Chads, who fought the Java after Capt. Lambert was 
 wounded, that he did every thing for the defence of 
 that ship, which a brave and skilful officer could do, 
 and that further resistance would have been a wanton 
 effusion of human blood. 
 
 Size of the Java. 
 
 The Java is rated in Steel's list a 38 gun frigate. 
 Her real force was 28 eighteen pounders on the main 
 deck — 14 thirty-two pounders, on the quarter deck — 
 4 thirty-two pounders, and 2 large twelve pounders on 
 the forecastle — and one shifting gun, a twenty-four 
 pounder. 
 
 The British rate their ship from the numl)er of guns 
 on a particular deck ; and a frigate carrying 28 eigh- 
 teen pounders on her main deck, is regularly called by 
 them a 38, which rate has frequently fifty-two moun- 
 ted. 
 
 There are on board the Constitution some of the 
 Java's shot, from v»'hich it has been ascertained, that 
 there is scarcely three pounds difference between her 
 eighteens and the American twenty-fours, so called ; 
 and that the thirty-two pound shot of {he Java is heav- 
 ier than the thirty-two pound shot of the Constitution. 
 
 The officers of the Java, while on board (he Consti- 
 tution, mentioned, that this frigate was Ibrmerly the 
 French ship La Renome, taken off IMadagascar, 
 May 20, 1811, in company with La JS'cri-dc,, after a 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 37 
 
 severe action, by the Phoebe, Astrea and Galatea. 
 At the time of capture, La Renome mounted 44 guns 
 — The British added five guns. 
 
 HORNET AND BONNE CITOYENNE. 
 
 Capt. Lawrence, while off the harbour of St. 
 Salvador, in the Hornet, sent a challenge to Capt. 
 Greene, of the D-onne Citoyenne, to try the superiori- 
 ty of their vessels in action ; which was conveyed 
 through the American Consul, as follows : 
 
 "When I last sa^v you, I stated to you my wish to 
 meet the Bonne Citoyenne, and authorized you to 
 make my wish known lo Capt. Greene. I now re- 
 quest you to state to him, that I will meet him when- 
 ever he may be pleased to come out, and pledge my 
 honor that neither the Constitution, nor any other 
 American vessel shall interfere. 
 
 Com. Bainbridge, of the Constitution frigate, con- 
 firms to me (says the consul) the request of Capt. Law- 
 rence, in these words : — " If Capt. Greene wishes to 
 try equal force, I pledge my honor to give him an 
 opportunity, by being out of the way or not interfer- 
 mg. 
 
 The folloioing letter from Mr. Frederick Landeman, 
 the English Consul to the American Consul, con- 
 veys Capt. Greene's reply to the challenge. 
 
 Sir, " Fort de St. Pedro, Dec. 29, 1812. 
 
 I transmitted your letter to me, of yesterday, to 
 Capt. P. B. Greene, to whom the substance is direc- 
 ted ; and, having received his reply, I herewith insert 
 it verbatim, 
 
 "I hasten to acknowledge the favour of your com- 
 munication, made to me this morning from Mr. Hill, 
 consul to the United States of America, on the sub- 
 ject of a challenge, stated to have been offered through 
 Mr. Hill, by Capt Lawrence, of the United States 
 sloop of war the Hornet, to myself, as commander of 
 
38 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 his Britannic Majesty's ship the Bonne Ciloyenne, 
 anchored in this port, pledging his honor, as well as 
 that of Com. Bainbridge, that no advantage shall be 
 taken by the Constitution or any other American ves- 
 sel whatever on the occasion. I am convinced, sir, 
 if such rencontre were to take place, the result could 
 not be long dubious, and would terminate favourably 
 to the ship which I have the honor to command ; but 
 I am equally convinced that Com. Bainbridge could 
 not swerve so much from the duty he owes to his coun- 
 try, as to become an inactive spectator, and see a ship, 
 belonging to the very squadron under his orders, fall 
 into the hands of an enemy ; this reason operates pow- 
 erfully on my mind for not exposing the Bonne Cito- 
 yenne to a risk, upon terms so manifestly disadvantage- 
 ous as those proposed by Com. Bainbridge; indeed, 
 nothing could give me greater satisfaction than com- 
 plying with the wishes of Capt. Lawrence; and I ern- 
 eastly hope that chance will afford him an opportuni- 
 ty of meeting the Bonne Citoyenne under different 
 circumstances, to enable him to distinguish himself in 
 the manner he is now so desirous of doing. I further 
 assure y !, that my ship will, at all times, be prepar- 
 ed, wherever she may be, to repel any attacks made 
 against her, and I shall also act offensively, wherever 
 I judge it proper to do so. 
 
 I am, sir, with great regard, &c." 
 
 HORNET AND PEACOCK. 
 
 CAPT. Lawrence's letter to the sec'v of the navy. 
 
 U. S. ship Hornet, Holmes' Hole, 
 Sir, March 19, 1813. 
 
 I HAVE the honor to inform you of the arrival at 
 this port of the United States ship i/onie/, under my 
 command, from a cruiseof 145 days ; and to state to you, 
 that afier Com. Bainl)ri(lge left the coast of Brazils, 
 (Jan. G) I continued off tiie harbour of St. Salvador, 
 blockading the Bonne Citoyenne, until the 24.th, when 
 
31! 
 W 
 
 o 
 
 W 
 
 I— » 
 
 •— t 
 
 o 
 
 H 
 
 Q 
 O 
 O 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 39 
 
 the Montague 74 hove in sight, and chased me into the 
 harbour ; but night coming on, I wore and stood out 
 to the southward. Knowing that she had left Rio Ja- 
 neiro for the express purpose of reheving the Bonne 
 Citoyenne and the packet, [ which I had also blockaded 
 for 14 days, and obliged her mail to go to Rio, in a 
 Portuguese smack] I judged it most prudent to shift 
 my cruising ground, and hauled by the wind to the 
 eastward, with the view of cruising oft' Pernambuco, 
 and on the 4th of February captured the English brig 
 Resolution, of 10 guns, from Rio Janeiro, bound to 
 Moralmam, with coffee, jerked beef, flour, fustic, and 
 butter, and about 23,000 dollars in specie. As she 
 sailed dull and I could not spare hands to man her, I 
 took out the money and set her on fire. I ran down 
 the coast of Morahnam, and cruised there a short time 
 from thence ran off Surinam. After cruising off* that 
 coast from the 15th to the 22d of Feb. without meet- 
 ing a vessel, I stood for Demerara, with an intention, 
 should I be fortunate on that station, to run through 
 the West Indies, on my way to the United States. 
 But, on the 24th in the morning, I discovered a brig 
 to the leeward, to which I gave chase ; ran into quar- 
 ter less four, and not having a pilot, was obliged to 
 haul off*, the fort at the entrance of Demerara river at 
 this time bearing S. W. distant about two and a half 
 leagues. Previous to giving up the chase, I discover- 
 ed a vessel at anchor without the bar, with English 
 colours flying, apparently a brig of war. In beating 
 round Corobano Bank, in order to get at her, at half 
 past 3 P. M, discovered another sail on our weather 
 quarter, edging down for us. At 20 minutes past 4, 
 she hoisted English colours, at which time we discov- 
 ered her to be a large man-of-war brig — beat to quar- 
 ters, cleared ship for action, and kept close by the wind, 
 in order, if possible, to get the weather gage. At 10 
 minutes past 5, finding I could weather theenemy,I hois- 
 ted American colours and tacked. At 25 minutes past 
 5, in passing each other, exchanged broadsides within 
 half pistol shot. Observing the enemy in the act of 
 
40 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 wearing, I bore up, received his starboard broadside, 
 ran him close on board the starboard quarter, and kept 
 up such a heavy and direct fire, that in less than 15 
 minutes he surrendered, being literally cut to pieces, 
 and hoisted his ensign, union down, from his fore-rig- 
 ging, as a signal of distress. Shortly after, his main- 
 mast went by the board. Despatched Lieut. Shubrick 
 on board, who soon returned with her first Lieut, who 
 reported her to be his Britannic Majesty's late brig 
 Peacock, commanded by Capt. William Peake, who 
 fell in the latter part of the action ; that a number of 
 her crew were killed and wounded, and that she was 
 sinking fast, having then six feet of water in her hold. 
 Despatched the boats immediately for the wounded, 
 and brought both vessels to anchor. Such shot holes 
 as could be got at were then plugged up : her guns 
 thrown overboard, and every possible exertion used to 
 keep her afloat until the prisoners could be removed, 
 by pumping and bailing, but without effect, as she 
 unfortunately sunk in 02 fathoms water, carrying down 
 13 of her crew, and 3 of my brave fellows, viz : John 
 Hart, Joseph Wilhams and Hannibal Boyd ; Lieut. 
 Conner, Midshipman Cooper, and the remainder of 
 my men, employed in removing the prisoners, with 
 difficulty saved themselves, by jumping into a boat 
 that was lying on her booms as she went down. Four 
 men, of the 13 mentioned, were so fortunate as to gain 
 the fore top, and were afterwards taken off'by the boats. 
 Previous to her going down, 4 of her men took the 
 stern boat, that had been much damaged during the 
 action, who, I sincerely hope reached the shore in 
 safety ; but from the heavy sea running at the time, 
 the shattered state of the boat, and the difficulty of 
 landing on the coast, I am fearful they were lost. I 
 have not been able to ascertain from her officers 
 the exact number killed. Capt. Peake and 4 men 
 were found dead on board. The master, and one 
 midshipman, carpenter and captain's clerk, and 29 sea- 
 men were wounded ; most of them severely, 3 of them 
 died of their wounds after being removed, and 9 drown- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 41 
 
 ed. Our loss was trifling in comparison. John Place, 
 killed ; Samuel Coulson, and John Delyrumple severe- 
 ly wounded ; George Coffin and Lewis Todd severely 
 burnt by the explosion of a cartridge. Todd survived 
 only a few days. Our rigging and sails are much cut. 
 One shot through the foremast ; and the bowsprit slight- 
 Iv injured. Our hull received little or no damage. 
 At the time I brought the Peacock to action, the L'Es- 
 piegle (the brig mentioned as being at anchor) mount- 
 ing sixteen 32 pound carronades and two long nines, 
 lay about six miles in shore of me, and could plainly 
 see the whole of the action. Apprehensive that she 
 would beat out to the assistance of her consort, such 
 exertions were made by my officers and crew repairing 
 damages, Slc. that by nine o'clock my boats were 
 stowed away, new set of sails bent, and the ship com- 
 pletely ready for action. At 2 A. M. got under way 
 and stood by the wind to the northward and westj^ard, 
 under easy sail. 
 
 On mustering next morning, found we had two 
 hundred and seventy seven souls on board, including 
 the crew of the American brig Hunter , of Portland, 
 taken a few days since by the Peacock. As we had 
 been on two thirds allowance of provisions, for some 
 time, and had but 3,400 gallons of water on board, I 
 reduced the allowance to three pints a man, and deter- 
 mined to make the best of my way to the United 
 States. 
 
 The Peacock was deservedly styled one of the finest 
 vessels of her class in the British navy. I should 
 judge her to be about the tonnage of the Hornet. 
 Her beam was greater by five inches ; but her extreme 
 length not so great by four feet. She mounted sixteen 
 24 pound carronades, two long nines, one 12 pound 
 carronade on her top-gallant forecastle, as a shifting 
 gun, and one 4 or 6 pounder, and two swivels moun- 
 ted aft. I find, by her quarter bill, that her crew con- 
 sisted of 134 men, 4 of whom were absent in a prize 
 
 The cool and determined conduct of my officers 
 and crew during the action, and their almost unexam- 
 
 6 
 
42 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 pled exertions afterwards, entitle them to my warmest 
 acknowledgments, and I beg leave most earnestly to 
 recommend them to the notice of government. 
 
 By the indisposition of Lieut. Stewart, I was de- 
 prived of the services of an excellent officer. Had he 
 been able to stand the deck, I am sure his exertions 
 would not have been surpassed by any one on board. 
 I should be doing injustice to the merits of Lieut. 
 Shubrick, and acting Lieuts. Conner and Newton, 
 were I not to recommend them particularly to your 
 notice. Lieut. Shubrick was in the actions of the 
 Guerriere and Java. Capt. Hull and Com. Bain- 
 bridge can bear testimony of his coolness and good 
 conduct on both occasions. I have the honor to be, sir, 
 
 your obedient servant, 
 
 Hon. Wm. Jones, JAMES LAWRENCE. 
 
 Secretary of the JS7ivy. 
 
 P.*S. At the commencement of the action, my 
 sailing-master and seven men were absent in a prize ; 
 and Lieut. Stewart and six men were on the sick list. 
 
 As there is every prospect of the wind being to the 
 eastward in the morning, I shall make the best of my 
 way to New-York. 
 
 Liberality of American tars. 
 
 It is a fact wortliy of note, and in the highest de- 
 gree honorable to our brave tars, that, the day pre- 
 ceeding the destruction of his Britannic Majesty's 
 brig Peacock the crew of the Hornet made a subscrip- 
 tion, and supplied the prisoners, who had lost ahnost 
 every thing, with two shirts, a blue jacket and trow- 
 sers, each. 
 
 Tribute of 2;ratitudc. 
 Sir, JVeio-York, March 27, 1813. 
 
 We, the surviving officers of his Britannic Maj- 
 esty's brig Peacock, beg leave to return you our 
 grateful acknowledgments for the kind attention and 
 hospitahty we experienced during the time we remain- 
 ed on board the United States sloop Hornet. So 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 43 
 
 much was done to alleviate the distressing and un- 
 comfortable situation, in which we were placed when 
 received on board the sloop you command, that we 
 cannot better express our feelings, than by saying, 
 "we ceased to consider ourselves prisoners," and eve- 
 ry thing that friendship could dictate, was adopted by 
 you, and the officers of the .Hornet^ to remedy the in- 
 conveniences we should otherwise have experienced 
 from the unavoidable loss of the whole of our proper- 
 ty and clothes by the sudden sinking of the Peacock. 
 Permit us then, sir, impressed, as we are, with a 
 grateful sense of your kindness, for ourselves and the 
 other officers and ship's company, to return you, and 
 the officers of the Hornet, our sincere thanks, which 
 we shall feel obliged, if you will communicate to 
 them in our name, and believe us to remain with a 
 high sense of the kind offices you have rendered us, 
 your humble servants, 
 
 F. A. WRIGHT, 1st Lieutenant, 
 C. LAMUERT, 2d Lieutenant. 
 EDWARD LOTT, Master. 
 I. WHITAKER, Surgeon. 
 F. D. UNWIN, Purser. 
 James Lawrence, Esq. 
 
 Commmider U. S. Sloop Hornet. 
 
 The demolition of the Peacock by the Hornet ap- 
 pears to have been a master-piece of American gun- 
 nery. When the Leopard, a 50 gun ship, attacked 
 the Chesapeake of 30 guns, she poured her broadsides 
 for nearly 20 minutes, without cessation, and close 
 aboard, into an unresisting, cluttered and inferiour 
 ship. Yet only three were killed, and a proportionate 
 number wounded. The Wasp, in 43 minutes cut 
 down the Frolic from 119 men to 20, capable of do- 
 ing duty ; and the Hornet, in only 15 minutes, killed 
 9, wounded 35, and totally shivered her superior an- 
 tagonist to atoms ! 
 
44 NAVAL MOxNUMENT. 
 
 CHESAPEAKE AND SHANNON. 
 
 The folloioing account of the capture of the Chesa- 
 peake, appeared in a Boston newspaper on Fri- 
 day, 4>th June, 1813. 
 
 On Tuesday forenoon, 1st of June, the British 
 frigate Shannon, Capt. Broke, appeared off our har- 
 bour, and disphtyed her colours. 
 
 The United States frigate Chesapeake, Capt. Law- 
 rence, was then at anchor, just below fort Indepen- 
 dence. As soon as the enemy was seen, she fired a 
 gun, and hoisted her colors. Preparations were im- 
 mediately made for sailing, and when the officers had 
 assembled on board, and the tide served, she got un- 
 derway. The Shannon proceeded down the bay, the 
 Chesapeake following under a press of sail. 
 
 Spectators were collected on every place in Boston, 
 which commanded a view of the sea, but the frigates 
 proceeded to the eastward till lost sight of from the 
 town, and our citizens on shore were thereby spared 
 the distress of witnessing the result, a pain which those 
 had to encounter, who were spectators of the conflict 
 in boats and vessels ; and from whom the particulars 
 of the battle, as far as at present known here, are ob- 
 tained. 
 
 The Chesapeake had a colour at each mast head. 
 That on the fore royal mast was white, and appeared 
 to have some inscription on it. She was put under 
 her topsails on approaching the enemy, fired a gun, 
 and 10 or 12 minutes before 6 the cannonade became 
 general and severe, and the Shannon experienced some 
 injury in her spars and rigging, while the Chesapeake 
 suffered no visible damage ; and appeared to have the 
 advantage of her antagonist. About (), the Chesapeake, 
 which was to windward, ran on board the enemy, and 
 the contest continued yard-arm to yard-arm. In about 
 6 minutes there was a great explosion on board the 
 Chesapeake, but whether caused by accident, or any 
 new combustible used by the enemy, is uncertain. Soon 
 after the smoke thus caused had dispersed, the ships 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 45 
 
 separated, and the English colour (a blue flag) was 
 seen over the American ensign inverted ; and both ves- 
 sels then stood to the eastward, undoubtedly for Hali- 
 fax. From the manner in which the action was fought, 
 neither of the frigates were essentially injured in their 
 masts or rigging. 
 
 We know not that any written challenge was re- 
 ceived by Capt. Lawrence, but one intended for him 
 reached Salem just after he sailed from Boston. If 
 one was delivered on board the Chesapeake, duplicates 
 were written. 
 
 The Chesapeake was rated 39 guns, but we under- 
 stand mounted 49, the Shannon was rated 38, but, it 
 is said, mounted 52 — and was superiour in weight of 
 metal. The number of men probably about equal. 
 The Chesapeake had been refitted for a cruise and was 
 nearly ready for sea. 
 
 Capt. Lawrence took the command of the Chesa- 
 peake a few days since. Some changes had also oc- 
 curred in the other officers, and the 1st lieutenant was 
 sick on shore.* For the same officers to be long as- 
 sociated, we should conceive an advantage. Many 
 of the sailors were fresh recruits, and little or no op- 
 portunity had been afforded to discipline them, as the 
 business of equipping the vessel for sea was not com- 
 pleted. The enemy, on the contrary, there is reason 
 to believe, was prepared. All her officers and men 
 had been for several months in the same relative situ- 
 ations — the complement in each respect was full — and 
 the seamen had had every chance of being thoroughly 
 exercised. From these circumstances Capt. Law- 
 rence might, without impropriety, have delayed the 
 interview, but he yielded to the impulse of his intrepid 
 
 * Lieut. Octavius Augustus Page died at Boston, of the lung fever, on Friday 
 tlie 4th of June, three days after the battle, aged 23, He was a son of the late 
 Governor Page of Virginia, one of the oldest Lieutenants in the navy of the Uni- 
 ted States, and the 1st of the Chesapeake. This gentleman is deeply lamented as 
 a brave and skilful officer Capt. Lawrence deplored the necessity of proceed- 
 ing to sea without him, and Lieut. Page, during his illness, seemed to forget his 
 own sufferings in regret of his inability to rejoin his ship, and in anxiety for tha 
 fate of his gallant companions in°arnis. 
 
46 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 spirit as soon as he saw the foe, and whatever specu- 
 lations there may be as to what would have been the 
 mode of battle deserving preference (speaking after the 
 event,) no one doubts the bravery of the commander, 
 officers and crew, and that he did what he considered 
 best. 
 
 OFFICIAL ACCOUNT 
 
 From Lieut. Budd to the Secretary of the navy dated 
 Sir, Halifax, June 15, 1813. 
 
 The unfortunate death of Capt. James Lawrence, 
 and Lieut. Augustus C. Ludlow, has rendered it my 
 duty to inform you of the capture of the late United 
 States frigate Chesapeake. 
 
 On Tuesday June 1st, at 8 A. M. we unmoored ship, 
 and at meridian got under way from President's roads, 
 with a light wind from the southward and westward, 
 and proceeded on a cruise. A ship was then in sight 
 in the offing, which had 'the appearance of a ship of 
 war, and which, from information received from pilot 
 boats and craft, we believed to be the British frigate 
 Shannon. We made sail in chase and cleared ship 
 for action. At ^ past 4 P. M. she hove to, with her 
 head to the southward and eastward. At 5 P. M. took 
 in the royals and top-gallant sails, and at .; past 5 haul- 
 ed the courses up. About 15 minutes before 6 P. M. 
 the action commenced within pistol shot. The first 
 broadside did great execution on both sides, damaged 
 our rigging, killed among others Mr. White, the sail- 
 ing master, and wounded Capt. Lawrence. In about 
 12 minutes after the commenceme^nt of the action, we 
 fell on board of tiie enemy, and immediately after, 
 one of our arm chests on the quarter deck was blown 
 up by a hand grenade, thrown from the enemy's ship. 
 In a few minutes one of the Captain's Aids came on 
 the gun deck to inform me th.nt the boarders were cal- 
 led. I immediately called the boarders away, and pro- 
 ceeded to the spar deck, where I found that the enemy 
 had succeeded in boarding us, and had gained posses- 
 sion of our quarter deck. I immediately gave orders 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 47 
 
 to haul on board the foretack, for the purpose of shoot- 
 ing the ship clear of the other, and then made an at- 
 tempt to regain the quarter deck, but was wounded 
 and thrown down on the gun deck. I again made an 
 effort to collect the boarders, but in the mean time the 
 enemy had gained complete possession of the ship. 
 On my being carried down to the cockpit, I there found 
 Capt. Lawrence and Lieut. Ludlow both mortally 
 wounded ; the former had been carried below previ- 
 ously to the ship's being boarded; the latter was 
 wounded in attempting to repel the boarders. Among 
 those who fell early in the action was Mr. Edward J. 
 Ballard, the 4th Heutenant, and Lieut. James Broom 
 of marines. 
 
 I herein enclose to you a return of the killed and 
 wounded by which you will perceive that every officer, 
 upon whom the charge of the ship would devolve, was 
 either killed or wounded previously to her capture. 
 The enemy report the loss of Mr. Watt, their 1st heu- 
 tenant ; the purser ; the captain's clerk, and 23 seamen 
 killed; and Capt. Broke, a midshipman, and 56 sea- 
 men wounded. 
 
 The Shannon had, in addition to her full comple- 
 ment, an officer and 16 men belonging to the Bel- 
 le Poule, and a part of the crew belonging to the 
 Tenedoes. 
 
 I have the honour to be, with very great respect, &c. 
 
 Hon. Wm. Jones, GEORGE BUDD. 
 
 Sec'y of JVavy. 
 
 Killed— Edw. J. Ballard, acting heutenant; James 
 Broom, 1st lieutenant of marines ; Wm. A. White, 
 sailing master ; Pollard Hopewell, midshipman ; John 
 Evans do.; Courtland Livingston, do.; Daniel Burn- 
 ham, quarter master; James Woodbury do.; Michael 
 Kelly, quarter gunner; John Carter, boatswain's 
 mate, — also, twenty-six seamen, and eleven marines. 
 
 Wounded— James Lawrence, Esq. captain (since 
 deceased:) Aug. C. Ludlow, heutenant, (since deceas- 
 ed;) Geo. Budd, heuntenant, Wm. Cox, acting do.; 
 Samuel Livermore, acting chaplain ; Francis Nichols, 
 
48 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Walter abbot, Wm. A. Weaver, Edmund M. Rus 
 sell, Wm. Barry, midshipmen. Peter Adams, boat- 
 swain, (since dead;) Jefferson Griffith, quartermaster; 
 James A. Lewis, quarter master ; Forbes Dela, quar- 
 ter gunner, (since dead ;) Samuel Hutson, sail maker's 
 mate ; Thomas Finnagan, gunner's yeoman ; Thomas 
 Smith 2d, quarter gunner; John Veazy, do.; John 
 Giles, do.; Thomas Rouse, do.; and Thomas Jackson 
 2d, quarter master, and fifty seven seamen, — eight of 
 whom afterwards died of their wounds. 
 
 Marines — Twenty marines were also wounded and 
 one died of his wounds. 
 
 Killed 47 ; wounded 99 ; wounded, since dead, 14.. 
 
 The British return states the loss of the Shannon 
 to be 27 killed and 58 wounded. 
 
 FUNERAL OF CAPTAIN LAWRENCE. 
 
 The following orders were issued the day previous 
 to the funeral : — 
 
 GARRISON ORDERS. 
 
 Halifax 1th June, 1815. 
 
 A funeral party will be furnished to-morrow, by the 
 64tli regiment, consisting the 300 rank and file, with 
 a proper proportion of officers, and to be supplied with 
 three rounds of blank cartridges each man ; to inter 
 the remains of Capt. Lawrence, late of the American 
 frigate Chesapeake, from the King's Wharf, at ^ past 
 I oclock, P. M. 
 
 The band of that corps will attend, and the party 
 will be commanded by Lieut. Col. Sir J .Wardlow. 
 
 The officers of the garrison will be pleased to at- 
 tend the commandant there, at \ before 2, to march in 
 procession, wearing a piece of black crape round their 
 left arm. 
 
 {Signed) F. T. THOMAS, 
 
 Major of Brigade 
 
 NAVY ORDER. 
 
 The body of the commander of the late United 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 49 
 
 States frigate Chesapeake, will be interred to-morrow 
 at 2 o'clock. The captains and commanders, with 
 a portion of lieutenants and midshipmen, agreeably 
 to the following order of procession, will attend the 
 funeral, and will assemble precisely at 1 o'clock along 
 side of the Chesapeake, for that purpose. 
 
 THOMAS M. CAPEL, 
 Capt. and senior officer at Halifax 
 
 ORDER OF PROCESSION FROM THE SHIP. 
 
 Pall bearers 
 
 
 Pali bearers 
 
 Abreast of the corpse. 
 
 
 Abreast of the corpse 
 
 Capt. Baker, 
 
 * 
 
 o 
 
 Capt. Head, 
 
 Pearse, 
 
 Perchel, 
 
 
 n 
 
 
 Collier, 
 
 » 
 
 Blyte. 
 
 Boats two and two, with midshipmen and lieuten- 
 ants, commanders or lieutenants commanding vessels. 
 
 Connnanders. 
 Post captains. 
 
 ORDER OF PROCESSION ON SHORE. 
 
 Funeral firing party. 
 Pall bearers < j^oDY [ Pallbearers. 
 
 Officers of Privateers. 
 
 American naval officers. 
 
 English naval officers. 
 
 Midshipmen. 
 
 Lieutenants. 
 
 Officers of garrison according to rank. 
 
 Post captains. 
 
 , Staflf officers. 
 
 General and Senior officers. 
 
50 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 The respect due to a brave enemy was yesterday 
 shewn to t he remains of Capt. Lawrence. — The corpse 
 was landed from the Chesapeake, under a discharge 
 of minute guns, and at 2 o'clock reached the King's 
 wharf — the American ensign was spread as a pall over 
 the coffin, on which was placed the sword of the de- 
 ceased — six captains of the navy officiated as pall- 
 bearers — six companies of the 64th regiment, com- 
 manded by Sir John Wardlow, preceded the corpse — 
 the officers of the Chesapeake followed it as mour- 
 ners — the officers of the navy generally attended — Sir 
 Thomas Sauinarez, the staff, and officers of the gar- 
 rison — and the procession was closed by a number of 
 respectable inhabitants. — The funeral service was per- 
 formed by the Rev. Rector of St. Paul's and three 
 vollies discharged by the troops over the grave. 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LETTER. 
 
 June 19, 1813. 
 "I suppose the newspapers and letters sent from 
 Halifax, by such of the officers, whose wounds would 
 permit them to write, will give you all the particulars 
 of the loss of our frigate Chesapeake, which had ar- 
 rived there. She came in eight or nine miles ahead of 
 the Shannon, and appeared to out-sail her fast. When 
 she saluted one of the forts six miles from the town, 
 and shewed the English over the American colours, 
 the Halifax people thought it was the President, a 
 prize, and there was a general shout. But I unde- 
 ceived all whom I could speak to, as I knew the ship ; 
 and when they found it to be the Chesapeake, and that 
 her captain was dead, not a huzza was heard, except I 
 believe on board a brig. I was near La Ilogne, a 74, 
 and am certain her crew did not cheer. Capt. Law- 
 rence was highly respected for his humanity to the 
 crew of the Peacock ; and marks of real grief were 
 seen in the countenances of all the inhabitants I had 
 a chance to see. I can say truly, that all appeared to 
 lament his death ; and I heard several say, they con- 
 sidered the blood which had been shed on the Chesa- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 51 
 
 peake's deck as dear as that of their own countrymen. 
 They also speak against the war as cruel an^ unnat- 
 ural ; and hope the States will not compel them to con- 
 tinue it. I saw three mahogany coffins carried on 
 board the Chesapeake the day of the funeral. In one 
 of them Capt. Lawrence was placed, and the coffins 
 put into a twelve-oared barge, which rowed minute 
 strokes, followed by a procession of boats. The 
 corpse was received at the king's wharf, by a regi- 
 iment of troops, and a full band of music. Six of 
 the oldest navy captains carried the pall, which was 
 one of the colours of the Chesapeake ; which they said 
 was considered a particular mark of respect by naval 
 men, as it was a token that he had defended his col- 
 ours bravely, and that at his tomb they should not be 
 separated from him. The procession was very long, 
 and every thing was conducted in the most solemn and 
 respectful manner and the v/ounded officers of both 
 nations, who followed in the procession, made the 
 scene very affecting. I never attended a funeral in 
 my life when my feelings were so much struck. There 
 was not the least mark of exultation that I saw, even 
 among the commonest people. 
 
 The Shannon received five or six shots in her hull, 
 near wind and water, but they were stopped and lead- 
 ed. She was lying in the harbor, and they were over- 
 hauling and shifting her rigging. They expected to 
 get her to sea shortly. 
 
 Capt. Broke and Capt. Lawrence were both deliri- 
 ous from their wounds ; and the ships were both 
 brought in by very young officers. Capt. Broke we 
 consider as very dangerously wounded, having his 
 head cut from the top to near his mouth by the ear. 
 When Capt. Lawrence could speak, he would say, 
 'Don't give up the ship.' He was first wounded in 
 the leg, which bled much, and w^eakened him ; but he 
 would not be carried below ; when he received a grape 
 shot in the lower part of his belly, of which he died. 
 Capt. Broke was stated to have received his wound 
 in stooping down, trying to save the life of one of the 
 
52 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Chesapeake's crew, which one of his own men was 
 manghng and whose head he cut off." 
 
 Shortly after the fate of the Chesapeake and her 
 brave defenders was known in the United States, B. 
 \V. Crowninshield Esq. of Salem, sohcited the Amer- 
 ican government for permission to sail with a flag of 
 truce to Halifax, for the purpose of obtaining the en- 
 tombed bodies of Capt. Lawrence and Lieut. Ludlow: 
 the permission being granted, Mr. Crowninshield sail- 
 ed in a vessel, manned by himself and ten other mas- 
 ters of vessels, and on application to the British ad- 
 miral, commanding on that station, obtained the object 
 of his request. On their arrival at Salem the funeral 
 obseques of the brave deceased were again celebrated 
 in the most solemn and impressive manner. 
 
 Business was suspended, and the whole town was 
 crowded either to perform or to witness the funeral 
 honors to the fallen heroes. About noon the bodies 
 were removed from the cartel Henry, accompanied by 
 eight boats, manned by sailors in uniform, rowing 
 minute-strokes ; the cartel brig and the U. S. brig of 
 war Rattlesnake, Capt. Creighton, firing minute guns 
 during their passage. The bodies were landed, and 
 the cothns placed on hearses, which were lent by the 
 Board of HeaUh of Boston; the U. S. flag covering 
 the hearses. At one o'clock the procession, consisting 
 of the oflicers of the U. S. navy and army, the clergy 
 of all denominations, the different corporate bodies, 
 the several marine societies, together with citizens and 
 strangers from Boston and the vicinity, moved under 
 the escort of the elegant company of light infantry, 
 commanded by Capt. J. C. King. Minute guns were 
 fired during the whole procession by the Salem artil- 
 lery, under Capt. Peabody, which was stationed on 
 Washington-Square. The movement was deeply im- 
 pressive. The sides of the streets were crowded, and 
 the windows were filled with spectators, and many 
 were on the tops of houses. The tolling of the deep 
 toned bells — the solemn melody of the music — tlie slow 
 and melancholy-inspiring pace of the procession — the 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 53 
 
 appearance of the sable coffins with their accompani- 
 ments — and the awe-striking report of the minute 
 guns, rendered the whole a scene of solemn woe. Two 
 hours elapsed while the procession was moving to the 
 church ; and the multitude was so great, that a small 
 part only could be accomodated to hear the Eulogy by 
 the Hon. Judge Story. After the orator had conclu- 
 ded, the bodies were entombed with the customary 
 military and masonic ceremonies. The church was 
 shrouded in the sable habiliments of woe, and the sa- 
 cred services of religion, and the musick, were appro- 
 priate. 
 
 During the day, our own, as well as the neutral mer- 
 chant vessels in the harbour wore their colours at half 
 mast. 
 
 In the procession were several officers of high mili- 
 tary rank — Maj. Gen. H. Dearborn, Brig. Gen. T. H. 
 Gushing, &.C. 
 
 We have understood that the remains are to be re- 
 embarked in the cartel Hciwy, and carried to New- 
 York, and there to be at the disposal of their respec-^ 
 tive relatives. 
 
 A great number of the citizens of Boston attended 
 the funeral rites in Salem. Minute guns were fired at 
 1 o'clock, and the flags were displayed half-mast from 
 the frigate Constitution, the vessels in the harbour, 
 the forts, gun-houses, and public buildings. A com- 
 pany of artillery left town for Salem on Sunday eve- 
 ning, to assist in the funeral honors. 
 
 Their remains were soon after conveyed to New- 
 York, where a procession was formed, which, with the 
 spectators, it is supposed, amounted to fifty thousand. 
 The burial service was once more performed, and the 
 dead committed to the tomb. 
 
 LOSS OF LAWRENCE AND THE CHESAPEAKE. 
 
 ''Pro P atria'' 
 
 Of the sea-fight in the time of the Commonwealth, 
 It is said, by a British historian, "that Blake, who was 
 victor, gained not more honor than Tromp, who was 
 
54 NAVAL MONUMENT. ' 
 
 vanquished." The remark is ahke true of the recent 
 engagement. The perseverance of Broke was equal- 
 led by the promptness of Lawrence. This vessel was 
 met the instant it was ascertained there was no other 
 to meet. His very first movement was announced to 
 the foe, who, in plain sight, was challenging battle 
 and crushing defiance. His going into action was to 
 be full as gallant as his reception. But he met his 
 fate in the first ball. "Give not up the ship," he said, 
 and fell, no ofiicer unwounded near, to bear him up 
 in his fall. He cared only for victory and his country ; 
 never for life. 
 
 No restlessness for battle betrayed him into action. 
 He had fought and conquered ; had realized the glory 
 of victory, and helped to establish the hojior of his 
 country. Not to go out would be an acknowledge- 
 ment of victory. The result of a meeting could be 
 no more. True, she had a crew picked from the 
 squadron. But were not American seaman equal to 
 any ? Her captain and men well known to each other. 
 Can mine want confidence in me ? Has she not been 
 long upon the cruise, and preparing for the purpose ? 
 What then ? Are we not always ready .'* And what 
 if she be the better sailer ? The challenger will not 
 dare to retreat ; and I shall willingly spare him the 
 trouble of pursuit. 
 
 The die was cast ; and let those event-enlightened 
 reasoners who have now the presumtion to think it 
 was then cast in rashness, ask themselves the question, 
 what they would not have said, and what others would 
 not have said had the Chesapeake to this hour remain- 
 ed in port, supinely at anchor, beholding the British 
 flag, day by day, cross and recross the harbour, wa- 
 ving, triumphantly, from a frigate not so decidedly her 
 superior, as to be deemed generally much more than a 
 match. As for Lawrence, if he had had " forty thou- 
 sand lives, "he would have thought the loss of all was 
 gain to the surviving such a sight. 
 
 If not rash in going out, still less can tliis imputa- 
 tion be cast upon his connnenciug the battle. He was 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 55 
 
 not only so cautious as not to waste a single ball at a 
 fruitless distance ; but so gloriously collected as to 
 hold himself in reserve, and receive his enemy's suc- 
 cessive fires, until within musket shot he was able to 
 pour in his whole broadside at once. To what then 
 was owing the sudden termination of this deadly con- 
 flict ? Not indeed to an explosion that swept the deck 
 of its officers. Mistaking only the cause, never was 
 conjecture more fatally right as to the affect. The cap- 
 tain, every lieutenant without exception, officers of mar- 
 ines, many of the midshipman, the sailing master, the 
 boatswain, were all, early in the action, levelled with 
 the deck ; and at the precise point of time, when it was 
 most of all important that the Chesapeake should gain 
 a particular position, at the instant of boarding, the 
 loss of an assential part of her rigging threw her into 
 the wind, and gave to the enemy the decisive advantage. 
 The desperation not over, Broke now led his boar- 
 ders ; an effort, Lawrence doubtless had equalled, 
 but for his previous disability ; and had probably made 
 his adversary bitterly repent his daring temerity. 
 Nothing is farther than blame from any single officer 
 on board. Ludlow, the 1st lieutenant, received three 
 balls in the fight, and has since carried them to the 
 grave. Every man did his duty. The enemy have 
 gained a battle, in which it may be said, without dis- 
 paragement to their prowess, that certainly their 
 valour and their skill could not have been greater than 
 was their good fortune. We grudge them not the 
 only laurel they have won. Under these circumstan- 
 ces, were it not deeply drenched in the blood of her 
 sons, our country could say to the enemy, "take it, 
 and welcome." 
 
 Most probably the annals of the world may in vam 
 be challenged to furnished another instance of so 
 short an engagement, and on each side such tremen- 
 dous execution. 
 
 Capt. Lawrence, at the time of his death, had been 
 nearly sixteen years in the service, with only one fur- 
 lough, and that of six weeks. In September, 1798, 
 
56 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 he entered as midshipman ; and in two years was 
 promoted to an acting heutenant in the Adams, Capt. 
 Robinson, in which capacity he continued, till the re- 
 duction of the navy ; an event which alone prevented 
 his appointment being confirmed. He, however, was 
 not to remain midshipman long. In the war with Tri- 
 poli he was promoted to a lieutenancy, and was orig- 
 inally the 1st officer of the Enterprize, but afterwards 
 removed to the John Adams. He signalized himself 
 in this memorable warfare by volunteering as first 
 lieutenant, with about seventy men and Decatur in 
 the ketch Intrepid of 4 guns, to destroy the Phila- 
 delphia, of 44, in the harbour of Tripoli, and at the 
 very mouth of the Bashaw's cannon. He returned to 
 this country with Preble ; and to Tripoli as comman- 
 der of gun boat No. 6. Nearly five years in all he 
 served against the Turks ; and was afterwards con- 
 stantly engaged ; in the Constitution as first lieuten- 
 ant — and in the Vixen, Wasp, Argus and Hornet, as 
 commander. His first cruise the present war was un- 
 der Com. Rodgers ; and we all remember what inter- 
 est his countrymen took in that remonstrance, tem- 
 perate, yet firm, which he made so immediately after 
 his return, against the unprecedented promotion of 
 the gallant Morris, and in which he contrived, with 
 delicacy and spirit, at once to save the feelings of a 
 brother, and to vindicate his own. Under the coun- 
 tenance of Rodgers and of Bainbridge he urged his 
 appeal, but left it to its fate, and sailed with the lat- 
 ter upon that brilliant cruise which eventuated so glo- 
 riously to his country, his commander and himself 
 Of the right and fitness of challenging in a public war 
 and at sea, we have no doubt. This whole business 
 of naval warfare, incalculable as it is in its importance 
 to a commercial nation, is yet a strife only for glory. 
 It is not to enrich or augment one fieet at the expense 
 of another; to support a country by spoils, or extend 
 empire by the conquest of ships. It is a contest for 
 superiority, a mere struggle for distinction; and the 
 opportunity, which cannot otherwise be met, nia^ 
 
NAVAl. MONUMENT. 57 
 
 very fairly be sought. But let those refined minds, 
 those nicely scrupulous souls, who quarrel upon prin- 
 ciple with the right of challenge, consider how Lawrence 
 was circumstanced ; and either withhold their censure, 
 in this instance at least, from his challenge to the 
 Bonne Citoyenne, or avow, at once, their utter unwil 
 lingnessto pardon anything to "poor human nature." 
 He had left a country, which he had certainly reason 
 to distrust as regardless of his claims, and when he 
 was as yet uncertain what was their fate. Unless 
 those claims were answered, he was publickly pled- 
 ged to go into retirement on his return, to the minds 
 of some men perhaps with doubtful dignity, to the for- 
 feiture of his only object in life, and to the rendering 
 utterly useless all his habits of living. To this, how- 
 ever, he was equal. But "a wounded spirit who can 
 bear ?" The Bonne Citoyenne however did not come 
 out ; and as far as may be infered from the fate of the 
 Peacock, a vessel equal in force to the Bonne Cit- 
 oyenne, there was no rashness in giving this challenge, 
 since, had she come out, her fate^ in all human prob- 
 ability had been the same. But she saved her money 
 and lost her credit. The challenge declined was 
 pronounced by high authority "a victory gained." 
 But the character of James Lawrence not to be 
 left to any constructive victory, however fair the con- 
 struction. On his way home he fell in with the Pea- 
 cock, which in less than 15* minutes he compelled to 
 make signs of distress as her signal for surrender ; and, 
 to his eternal honor be it recorded, lost more men in 
 saving, than in conquering the enemy. One man only 
 was killed in the battle. Three of his "brave fel- 
 lows" went down in attempting to save the vanquish- 
 ed from the sinking vessel. 
 
 * It is said that Capl. L. stated in conversion, on his last visit to this town, that 
 the. interval between firing his first shot and the Peacock's hoisting her flag, union 
 down, was only 11 minutes by the watch ; but as his clerk had got it down 15, he 
 thought that lime short enough, and would nO't correct it. This certainly justifi 
 ed the statement in the Halifax papers, " that a vessel, moored for the purpose of 
 experiment, could not have been sunk sooner." 
 
 8 
 
58 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 It IS with delight the most exquisite ; with pleasure 
 the most elevated ; that we dwell upon incidents like 
 these, which have invariable characterized all our na- 
 val achievements. Truly our ocean heroes are hu- 
 manely glorious. Such has been their humanity, it 
 is difiicult to say, whether the enemy have more of 
 dread of their valour as warriours, or of admiration at 
 their magnanimity as victors. 
 
 This engagement with the Peacock has been pro- 
 nounced by Lieut. Ludlow, whom we name with 
 pride, and certainly not without sympathy, not to have 
 been surpassed " for brilliancy of design and boldness 
 of execution," by any of all the bold and brilliant 
 events, that at sea have distinguished this war. 
 
 Capt. Lawrence was as amiable in his private, as 
 he was admirable in his professional life.* The do- 
 mestic were in the same circle with the ocean virtues, 
 each heightening the charm of the others. As a hus- 
 band, such was the ardour of his affection, that there 
 is a sacredness in the griefs of the chief mourner of 
 his country upon which we dare not suffer even our 
 sympathies abruptly to intrude. As a Christian, his 
 proof of faith in our Father in Heaven was love to 
 every brother upcm earth. Reduced foreigners in our 
 own metropolis realized the munificence of his private 
 charity. As a companion, he looked on you only to 
 smile, and with that blandness which is characteristic 
 of child-like simplicity. If in him the gentleman for- 
 got not the sailor, the sailor certainly ever remember- 
 ed the gentleman. As a citizen, believing order to 
 be " heaven's first law," and content with fdling up 
 completely his own department, he left to civilians the 
 civil. To political opinions he had however a right, 
 which he exercised without disguise. But satisfied 
 that it must forever be patriotism to fight for one's 
 country, he desired no better naval creed than Blake's 
 
 • Willi a heart of a most magnanimous texture, the lamented Lawrence took 
 under liis purtictilar care a viutii, whose father bi'infj killed in the Peacock, was 
 left an or])h;in, bereaved of parents, and had it not been fi>r our hero, would have 
 been left in his tender years exposed to the shocks of a boisterous world. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 59 
 
 under Cromwell. ''It is still our duty to fight for our 
 country, into what hands soever the government may 
 falir 
 
 The funeral solemnities of' Capt. Lawrence took 
 place abroad. 
 
 ' By strans^ers honor'd and by strangers mourned /' 
 
 His enemies were his mourners; or rather the ene- 
 mies of his country; for personal enemies Lawrence 
 had nane. The tears of Britons evinced how much 
 rather they would have shewn homage to his person, 
 than respectful attention to his remains. That flag, 
 from which he had parted but with life, was restored 
 to him in death. 
 
 "His sii^nal once, but now his shroud! "* 
 
 The publication of the subsequent is due to the 
 memory of the heroes, who on that disastrous day, so 
 gallantly sacrificed their lives for their country. 
 
 The members of the court were Com. Bainbridge, 
 and Captains Hull and Smith, names indentified with 
 chivalry, and dear to Americans; and their report con- 
 tains the only authentic account of the engagement 
 with the Shannon. 
 
 Capt. Lawrence's sailing orders were peremptory; 
 and when the enemy hove in sight, the Chesapeake's 
 crew were mutinous, on account of the non-payment 
 prize-money. The commander could not have diso- 
 beyed his orders with impunity; and mutiny was 
 to be overawed by energy. He passed the day in 
 preparation for action, and in the encouragement of 
 his men; and before, night-fall, the whole ship was an- 
 imated with his heroic soul. 
 
 The unexampled destruction of the Guerriere was 
 
 * We would have every opportunity improved of being just to an enemy. As 
 Capt. Broke had not liis senses till after his arrival at Halifax; and as his 1st lieu- 
 tenant was killed in the action, the command of two frigates devolving upon a 2d 
 lieutenant at a time when the precise extent of the injury to either could not be 
 ascertained, and when each was a sort of human slaughter house; his paramount, 
 if not his only duty was to make the best of his way to Halifax, especially as 
 Capt. Lawrence was so badly wounded, that his end might have been accelerated 
 by any attempt at removing him out of the vessel. The utmost then in their 
 power to do in this case, has been done, and done well 
 
60 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 accomplished in less than 18 minutes, and the van- 
 quished ship had 63 killed and wounded. One third 
 more metal is thrown by the Constitution's than the 
 Chesapeake's broadside; and the Shannon was so cut 
 in her hull, by eight minutes' broadsiding, that it was 
 with difficulty she could be kept afloat during the 
 night; and she numbered 88 killed and wounded. It 
 has been truly remarked, " that the world never wit- 
 nessed so destructive a fire from so limited a broad- 
 side in so short a space." Lawrence fell! and the re- 
 mainder of the fight, if fight it may be called, was as 
 disgraceful as the first eight minutes were brilliant. 
 The moment after Capt. Lawrence was carried below, 
 Capi. Broke boarded our quarter deck at the head of 
 20 men. Nothing but desperation could have promp- 
 ted or justified the measure. Lieut. Budd, the sen- 
 ior officer, had now gained the spar deck, where there 
 were, with those who had come up, from 60 to 75 well 
 men. No attempt was made to bring more men from 
 the gun-deck, and none on the spar deck to rally the 
 men and charge the boarders. This melancholy 
 pause continued, as Mr. Budd has testified, 3 minutes. 
 In the mean time, Capt. Broke, without making any 
 attack, had collected near 100 men, and proceeded to 
 the attack on the starboad side of the ship. Mr. 
 Budd now perceived a British uniform, and conclud- 
 ed that the men on the quarter deck were the enemy, 
 at whose approach our men fled to the forecastle, pre- 
 cipitated themselves through the fore hatchway to the 
 gun-deck, and from thence to the birth-deck, without 
 an effort to prevent them. A few only of the enemy 
 were killed or wounded by involuntary and accidental 
 blows, and the fire from the tops; and he continued his 
 unresis-ted havoc, till not a man was left on either deck. 
 Although Lawrence was prostrate, his soul was in 
 arms. From the cockpit he issued his memorable 
 orders — " keep the guns going" — "fight her till she 
 strikes or sinks " — and when he knew that the enemy 
 had carried the spar deck, he sent the emphatic mes- 
 sage to the gun deck, " don't give up the ship." 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 61 
 
 When he was apprised of the issue, he only remarked, 
 " then the officers of the deck hav'nt toed the mark — 
 the Shannon was whip'd when I left." 
 
 The officer-like conduct of this gallant martyr, on 
 this day, has been impeached by some of the survivors 
 of that dreadful conflict. The inevitable disadvantages 
 under which he fought a superior ship, perfectly pre- 
 pared; the chivalry with which he courted the con- 
 test; and the brilliancy of it before he fell, should alone 
 rescue his memory from censure. Cruel sacrilege 
 to profane the sanctuary of the tomb to shield living 
 defection from merited disgrace ! Every witness up- 
 on the court-martial, under a close cross-examination, 
 not only repelled the foul slander, but decidedly es- 
 tablished his high character as a commander. 
 
 In a very unreserved conversation. Com. Decatur, 
 with whom Capt. Lawrence had served much, was 
 asked , " whether his intrinsic merit as an officer, jus- 
 tified the enthusiastic veneration in which the nation 
 held his memory? " After a short pause he answer- 
 ed, " yes, sir, it did; and the fellow died as well as 
 he lived; but it is a part of a soldier's life to die well. 
 He had no talk; but he inspired all about him with ar- 
 dour : he always saw the best thing to be done; he 
 knew the best way to execute it ; and had no more 
 dodge in him than the mainmast," Laudatum est, a 
 laudato viro. This vindication is due to the ashes of 
 the inured patriot. 
 
 When the ill starred fortunes of this ship are recal- 
 led to memory; when we recollect that her deck was 
 the death scene of our favourte hero, with victory al- 
 most in his grasp, we involuntary adopt the language 
 of Milton's monody upon his shipwrecked friend, — 
 
 " It was that fatal and perfidious b;irk ; 
 
 " Built in the eclipse ; and rigged with curses dark ; 
 
 " That sunk so low that sacred head of thine ; '' 
 
 REPORT. 
 
 The court are unanimously of opinion, that the 
 Chesapeake was gallantly carried into action by her 
 
62 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 late brave commander ; and no doubt rests with the 
 court from comparison of the injury respectively sus- 
 tained by the frigates, that the fire of the Chesapeake 
 was much superior to that of the Shannon. The 
 Shannon being much cut in her spars and rigging, 
 and receiving many shot in and below the water line 
 was reduced almost to a sinking condition, after only 
 a few minutes cannonading from the Chesapeake ; 
 while the Chesapeake was comparatively uninjured. 
 And the court have no doubt, if the Chesapeake had 
 not accidentally fallen on board the Shannon, and the 
 Shannon's anchor got foul in the after quarter port of 
 the Chesapeake, the Shannon must have very soon sur- 
 rendered or sunk. 
 
 It appears to the court, that as the ships were get- 
 ting foul, Capt Lawrence ordered the boarders to be 
 called ; but the bugle man, Wm. Brown, stationed to 
 call the boarders by sounding a bugle, had deserted 
 his quarters, and when discovered and ordered to call, 
 was unable, from fright, to sound his horn ; that mid- 
 shipmen went below immediately to pass the word for 
 the boarders ; but not being called in the way they had 
 been usually exercised, few came upon the upper deck; 
 confusion prevailed ; a greater part of the men deser- 
 ted their quarters, and ran below. It appears also to 
 the court, that when the Shannon got foul of the Ches- 
 apeake, Capt. Lawrence, his 1st lieutenant, the sailing 
 master, and lieutenant of marines were all killed or 
 mortally wounded, and thereby the upper deck of the 
 Chesapeake was left without any commanding officer, 
 and with only one or two young midshipmen. It also 
 appears to the court, that previously to the ships get- 
 ting foul, many of the Chesapeake's spar deck division 
 had been killed and wounded, and the number station- 
 ed on that deck ihereby considerably reduced; that 
 these being left without a commissioned officer, or even 
 a warrant officer, except one or two inexperienced, 
 midshipmen, and not being suj)p<)rted by the boarders 
 from the gun deck, almost univtM-sally deserted their 
 quarters. And the enemy, availing himself of this de- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 63 
 
 fenceless state of the Chesapeake's upper deck, board- 
 ed and obtained possession of the ship with very httle 
 opposition. 
 
 From this view of the engagement and careful ex- 
 amination of the evidence, the court are unanimously 
 of opinion, that the capture of the late United States 
 frigate Chesapeake, was occasioned by the following 
 causes ; the almost unexampled early fall of Capt. 
 Lawrence, and all the principal officers ; the bugle- 
 man's desertion of his quarters, and inability to sound 
 his horn ; for the court are of opinion if the horn had 
 been sounded when first ordered, the men being then 
 at their quarters, the boarders would have promptly re- 
 paired to the spar deck, probably have prevented the 
 enemy from boarding — certainly have repelled them, 
 and might have returned the boarding with success ; 
 and the failure of the boarders on both decks to rally 
 on the spar deck, after the enemy had boarded, which 
 might have been done successfully, it is believed from 
 the cautious manner in which the enemy came on 
 board. 
 
 The court cannot, however, perceive in this almost 
 unexampled concurrence of disastrous circumstances 
 that the national flag has suffered any dishonour from 
 the capture of the United States frigate Chesapeake, 
 by the superior force of the British frigate Shannon, 
 of 52 carriage guns, and 396 men. Nor do this court 
 apprehend that the result of this engagement will in 
 the least discourage our brave seamen from meeting 
 the enemy hereafter on equal terms. 
 
 The court being also charged to inquire into the con- 
 duct of the officers and men during and after the en- 
 gagement, and thereupon having strictly examined and 
 maturely considered the evidence as recorded, do find 
 the following causes of complaint : 
 
 First. Against Lieut. Cox ; that being stationed in 
 command of the second division on the main deck, he 
 left his division during the action, while his men were 
 at their quarters, and went upon the upper deck ; that 
 when there and the enemy boardinaj, or on the point of 
 
64 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 boarding, he left the deck to assist Capt. Lawrence be 
 low, went down with him from the spar deck to the 
 birth deck ; did not return to his division, but went 
 forward on the gun deck ; that while here and the men 
 retreating below, he commanded them to go to their du- 
 ty without enforcing his commands. But as a court 
 of inquiry allows an accused person no opportunity of 
 vindicating his conduct, the members of this court 
 trust that their opinion on the conduct of Lieut, Cox, 
 may not be deemed conclusive against him, without 
 trial by court martial. 
 
 Second. Against Midshipman Forrest ; that he left 
 his quarters during the action, and did not return to 
 them, and now assigns no reason for his conduct sat- 
 isfactory to this court. 
 
 Third. Against Midshipman Freshman ; that he 
 behaved in an unofficer-like manner at Halifax, assum- 
 ing a false name at the office of commissary of pris- 
 oners, when obtaining his parole, and was paroled by 
 the name of William Brown. 
 
 Fourth. Against the crew generally ; that they de- 
 serted their quarters, and ran below after the* ships were 
 foul, and the enemy boarded. But it appearing that 
 they behaved well at tJieir quarters before, and fired 
 on the enemy with great rapidity and precision, the 
 court ascribe their misconduct to the confusion natu- 
 rally incident to the early loss of their officers, and the 
 omission of the call of boarders in the accustomed 
 manner. 
 
 Yet this court is very far from exculpating those 
 who are thus criminal. It is unable to designate by 
 name all the individuals who thus abandoned their du- 
 ty, because most of the olficers had recently joined the 
 ship, some only a few days preceding the engagement, 
 and of course could not distinguish the men. The 
 court, therefore, respectfully submit to higher author- 
 ity, the expediency of witiihoidiug the wages of the 
 crew. The persons whom the court are able to de- 
 signate byname, as deserters from their stations, are 
 William Brown, bugleuian, Joseph Russel, captain of 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 65 
 
 second gun, Peter Frost and John Joyce, seamen. 
 
 The court further find, that the following persons en- 
 tered the British service at Halifax, viz. Henry En- 
 sign, Peter John, Andrew Simpson, Peter Langran, 
 Magness Sparring, Joseph Galla, Martin Anderson. 
 Francis Paris, John White, boy, Thomas Arthur, 
 Charles Reynolds, John Pierce jun. Andrew Den- 
 ham, Thomas Jones, Charles Goodman, Joseph Anto- 
 nio, Christopher Stevens, Charles Bowden, Chas. 
 Westbury, Joseph Smith, George Williams, and 
 George Cordell. 
 
 The court further find and report, that William 
 Wainwright, William Worthington, and James Par- 
 ker, the last of whom was born in Salem, Massachu- 
 sets, were claimed by the enemy as British subjects, 
 and sent on board of the enemy's ships of war. 
 
 This court respectfully beg leave to superadd, that 
 unbiassed by any illiberal feelings towards the enemy, 
 they feel it -their duty to state, that the conduct of the 
 enemy after, boarding and carrying the Chesapeake^ 
 was a most unwarrantable abuse of power after success. 
 
 The court is aware that in carrying a ship by board- 
 ing the full extent of the command of an officer can- 
 not be readily exercised ; and that improper violence 
 may unavoidably ensue. When this happens in the 
 moment of contention, a magnanimous conquered foe 
 will not complain. But the fact has been clearly es- 
 tablished before this court, that the enemy met with 
 little opposition on the upper deck, and none on the 
 gun-deck. Yet after they had carried the ship, they 
 fired from the gun-deck down the hatchway upon the 
 birth-deck, and killed and wounded several of the 
 Chesapeake's crew, who had retreated there, were un- 
 armed and incapable of ma]|ing any opposition ; that 
 some balls were fired even into the cockpit : and what 
 excites the utmost abhorrence, this outrage was com- 
 mitted in the presence of a British oflicer standing at 
 
 the hatchway. 
 
 W. BAINBRIDGE, President. 
 
 9 
 
66 NATAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Thefollowing is a copy of the letter ^ denominated a chal- 
 lenge, sent from the commander of the British frigate 
 Shannon to the commander of the American fri- 
 gateChesapeake. Capt. Lawrence sailed before this 
 letter reached Boston. 
 
 LETTER FROM CAPT. BROKE TO CAPT. LAWRENCE. 
 
 His Britanic Majesty's ship Shannon, 
 Sir, Off Boston, June, 1813. 
 
 As the Chesapeake appears now ready for sea, I re- 
 quest you will do me the favor to meet the Shannon 
 with her, ship to ship, to try the fortune of our re- 
 spective flags. To an officer of your character, it re- 
 quires some apology for proceeding to further partic- 
 ulars. Be assured, sir, that it is not from any doubt 
 I can entertain of your wishing to close with my pro- 
 posals, but merely to provide an answer to any 
 objection which might be made, and very reasonable, 
 upon the chance of our receiving unfair support. 
 
 After the diligent attention which we had paid to 
 Com.Rodgers; the pains I took to detach all force but 
 the Shannon and Tenedos to such a distance that they 
 could not possibly join in any action fought in sight of 
 the Capes ; and the various verbal messages which 
 had been sent into Boston to that effect ; we were 
 much disappointed to find the commodore had eluded 
 us by sailing on the first chance, after the prevailing 
 easterly winds had obliged us to keep an offing from 
 the coast. He perhaps wished for some stronger as- 
 surance of a fair meeting. I am therefore induced to 
 address you more particularly, and to assure you, that 
 what I write I pledge my honor to perform to the ut- 
 most of my power. The Shannon mounts twenty- 
 four guns upon her broadside, and one light boat gun; 
 eighteen pounders on hef main deck, and thirty-two 
 pound carronades on her quarter deck and forecastle ; 
 and is manned with a complement of tlirrc; hundred 
 men and boys (a large proportion of the latter,) be- 
 sides thirty seamen, boys and passengers, who were 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 67 
 
 taken out of re-captured vessels lately. I am thus 
 minute, because a report has prevailed in some of the 
 Boston papers that we had one hundred and fifty men 
 additional, lent us from La Hogue, which really was 
 never the case. La Hogue is now gone to Halifax for 
 provisions, and I will send all other ships beyond the 
 power of interfering with us, and will meet you wher- 
 ever it is most agreeable to you : From six to ten 
 leagues east of Cape Cod Light House, from eight to 
 ten leagues east of Cape Ann Light on Cashe's 
 Ledge in lat. 43 o N. at any bearing and distance you 
 please to fix off the south breakers of Nantucket, or 
 the shoals off St. George's Bank. 
 
 If you will favor me with any plan of signals or 
 telegraph, I will warn you (if sailing under this prom- 
 ise) should any of my friends be too nigh or any where 
 in sight, until I can detach them out of the way,, or I 
 would sail with you under a flag of truce to any 
 place you think safest from our cruisers, hauling it 
 down when fair to begin hostilities. 
 
 You must, sir, be aware that my proposals are high- 
 ly advantageous to you, as you cannot proceed to sea 
 singly in the Chesapeake without imminent risk of be- 
 ing crushed by the superior force of the numerous 
 British squadrons which are now abroad, where all 
 your efforts, in case of rencontre, would however gal- 
 lant, be perfectly hopeless. I entreat you, sir, not to 
 imagine that I am urged by mere personal vanity to 
 the wish of meeting the Chesapeake ; or that I de- 
 pend only upon your personal ambition for your ac- 
 ceding to this invitation : we have both higher and no- 
 bler motives. You will feel it as a compliment if I 
 say, that the result of our meeting may be the most 
 grateful service I can render to my country ; and I 
 doubt not that you, equally confident of success, will 
 feel convinced, that it is only by repeated triumphs in 
 even combats that your little navy can now hope to 
 console your country for the loss of that trade it can 
 no longer protect. Favor me with a speedy reply. 
 
68 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 We are short of provisions and water, and cannot 
 stay long here. 
 
 r have the honor to be, sir, 
 
 your obedient humble servant. 
 (Signed) P. B. V. BROKE, 
 
 Capt. of II. B. M. ship Shannon. 
 
 N. B. For the general service of watching your 
 coast, it is requisite for me to keep another ship in 
 company, to support me with her guns and boats 
 when employed near the land, particularly to aid each 
 other if either ship in chase should gel on shore. 
 
 You must be aware that I cannot, consistently with 
 my duty, wave so great an advantage for this general 
 service by detaching my consort, without any assur- 
 ance on your part, of meeting me directly ; and that 
 you will neither seek or admit aid from any other of 
 your armed vessels, if I detach mine expressly for the 
 sake of meeting you. — Should any special order re- 
 strain you from thus answering a formal challenge, 
 you may yet oblige me by keeping my proposal a se- 
 cret, and appointing any place you like to meet us 
 (within 300 miles of Boston) in any given number of 
 days after you sail ; as, unless you agree to an inter- 
 view, I may be busied on other service, and perhaps 
 be at a distance from Boston when you go to sea. 
 Choose vour terms — but let us meet. 
 
 To the Commander of the United 
 States frigate Chesapeake. 
 
 ENDORSEMENT ON THE ENVELOP. 
 
 We have thirteen American |;risoners on board, 
 which I will give you for as many British sailors, if 
 you will send them out, otherwise being privateersmen, 
 they must be detained 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 69 
 
 ARGUS AND PELICAN. 
 
 Extract of a letter from James Inderivick, surgeon 
 of the late United States brig Argus, to the Secre- 
 tary of the JSavy. 
 
 Boston, September 5, 1814. 
 Having been appointed by Com. Decatur, as act- 
 ing surgeon on board the late United States hr'ig Argus, 
 a sliort time previous to her departure from New- 
 York, and having served in that capacity until the un- 
 fortunate termination of her cruise ; I was, with her 
 surviving officers, detained as a prisoner of war, on 
 parole, in England. I have now, Sir, however, the 
 honor of reporting to you my arrival on the the 3d 
 inst. at this port, in the cartel ship Saratoga, having 
 at length obtained my release and passport as a non- 
 combatant. As Lieut. Watson, our surviving com- 
 manding officer, has been unable, under parole re- 
 strictions, to transmit any official documents, relative 
 to the action and capture of the Argus, I have the 
 honor to enclose, for your information, a report of the 
 casualties attendinof that event. I resfret that I have 
 not yet been able to furnish the wounded with regu- 
 lar certificates ; it was impossible without personal 
 communication with them to obtain the information 
 necessary to the filling up the blanks, with the precis- 
 ion, enforced by the orders of your honorable depart- 
 ment. 
 
 The list of killed and wounded, as given by Dr. 
 Inderwick, is omitted, as a more complete account is 
 given by Lieut. Watson, in his official letter. 
 
 Letter from Lieut Watson, \st of the late United 
 
 States brig Argus, to the Secretary of the JVavy. 
 Sir, Norfolk, March 2, 1815. 
 
 Cirumstances during my residence inEngland having 
 heretofore prevented my attention to the painful duty 
 which devolved on me by the death of my gallant com- 
 mander, Capt. Wm. H. Allen, of the late U. S. brig 
 Argus, I have now the honor to state for your infor- 
 mation, that having landed the Minister Plenipoten- 
 
70 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 tiary (Mr. Crawford) and suite at L'Orient, we pro- 
 ceeded on the cruise which had been directed by the 
 department, and after capturing twenty vessels (a hst 
 of "the names and other particulars of which I have 
 the honor to enclose,) being in lat. 52° 15' N. long. 
 5° 50' W. on the 14th Aug. 1813, we discovered at 
 4 o'clock A. M. a large brig of war standing down 
 under a press of sail upon our weather quarter, the 
 wind being at south, and the Argus close hauled on 
 the starboard tack : we immediately prepared to re- 
 ceive her ; and at 30 minutes after 4, being unable to' 
 get the weather gage, we shortened sail, and gave her 
 an opportunity of closing. At 6, the brig having dis- 
 played English colours, we hoisted our flag ; wore 
 round, and gave her the larboard broadside (be- 
 ing at this time within grape distance) which was re- 
 turned, and the action commenced within the range of 
 musketry. At 4 minutes after 6, Capt. Allen was 
 wounded, and the enemy shot away our main braces, 
 main spring-stay, gafi", and trysail-mast. At 8 min- 
 utes after 6, Capt Allen, being much exhausted by the 
 loss of blood, was taken below. At 12 minutes after 
 6, lost our spritsail-yard and the principle part of the 
 standing rigging on the larboard side of the foremast. 
 At this time I received a wound on the head from a 
 grape shot, which for a time rendered me incapable of 
 attending to duty, and was carried below ; I had, 
 however, the satisfaction of recollecting on my recov- 
 ery, that nothing which the most gallant exertions 
 could effect, would be left undone by Lieut. W. H. 
 Allen, jun. who succeeded to the command of the 
 deck. 
 
 Lieut. Allen reports, at 14 minutes after 6, the 
 enemy being in our weather quarter, edged off*, for the 
 purpose of getting under our stern, but the Jrgns 
 luffed close to, with the main topsail aback, and giv- 
 ing him a raking broadside, frustrated his attempt. 
 At 18 minutes after 6, the enemy shot away our pre- 
 venter, main-braces and main-topsail-tye ; and the 
 Jlrgiis having lost the use of her after sails, fell on 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 71 
 
 before the wind, when the enemy succeeded in pas- 
 sing our stern, and ranged on the starboard side. At 
 25 minutes after 6, the wheel ropes and running rig- 
 ging of every discription being shot away, the Argus 
 became unmanageable ; and the enemy, not having 
 sustained any apparent damage, had it completely in 
 his power to choose a position, and continued to play up- 
 on our starboard quarter, occasionally shifting his sit- 
 uation, until 30 minutes after 6, when I returned to 
 the deck, the enemy being under our stern, within 
 pistol shot, where she continued to rake us until 38 
 minutes after 6, when we prepared to board, but, in 
 consequence of our shattered condition, were unable 
 to effect it ; the enemy then passed our broadside, and 
 took a position on our starboard bow. From this 
 time until 47 minutes after 6, we were exposed to a 
 cross or raking fire, without being able to oppose but 
 little more than musketry to the broadside of the ene- 
 my, our guns being much disabled and seldom brought 
 to bear. 
 
 The Jlrgus having now suffered much, in hull and 
 rigging, as also in killed and wounded, among the 
 former of whom (exclusive of our gallant captain) we 
 have to lament the loss of two meritorious young offi- 
 cers in Midshipmen Delphy and Edwards ; and being 
 exposed to a galling fire, which from the enemy's a- 
 bility to manage his vessel, we could not avoid, I 
 deemed it necessary to surrender, and was taken pos- 
 session of by his Britannic majesty's sloop the Pelican, 
 of twenty-one carriage guns, viz. sixteen 32 pound 
 carronades, four long 6's, and one 12 pound carronade. 
 I hope this measure will meet your approbation, and 
 that the result of this action, when the superior size 
 and metal of our opponent, and the fatigue which the 
 crew, &.C, of the Jlrgus underwent from a very rapid 
 succession of captures, is considered, will not be 
 thought unworthy of the flag under which we serve. 
 
 I have the honor to inclose a list of killed and woun- 
 ded, and feel great satisfaction in reporting the general 
 good conduct of the meritorious officers engaged on 
 
72 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 this occasion, and particularly the zeal and activity 
 displayed by Lieut. Allen, who you will observe for a 
 time commanded on deck. 
 
 I have the honour to be. Sir, with great respect, 
 
 your obedient servant, 
 Hon. B. Crowninshield, W. H. WATSON, 
 Sec'y of the navy. Late of the U. S. brig Argus. 
 
 Killed. Richard Delphy, Wm. W. Edwards, mid- 
 shipman ; Joshua Jones, Wm. Finley, Wm. Knowl- 
 ton, George Gardner, seamen. 
 
 Died of their wounds. William H. Allen, 
 captain ; James White, carpenter ; Joseph Jordan, 
 boatswain's mate; Francis Eggert, and Charles Back- 
 ster, seamen. 
 
 Wounded. Wilham H. Watson, 1st heutenant ; 
 Colin M'Leod, boatswain ; John Sniffer, carpenter's 
 mate ; John Young, quarter master ; and eight sea- 
 men. 
 
 During a few weeks preceding the loss of the Jlrgus, 
 she had captured 23 British vessels, of various sizes, 
 some of great value. 
 
 The tonage of the Argus* is given as follows ; 
 Length of keel for tonnage 80 feet, ) 
 Breadth of beam do. 28 do. > 298 68-95 tons 
 
 Depth of hold do. 12 ft. 8 in. ) 
 
 A London paper has the following: the Pelican brig 
 of 18 guns, which so nobly captured the Argus sloop 
 or war, was commanded by Capt. Searle, when she 
 beat the French frigate Medea, of 44 guns, into Guad- 
 aloupe, after an action of two hours in the year 
 1799. 
 
 FUNERAL OF CAPT. ALLEN. 
 
 At Plymouth Eng. on the 21st of August, was 
 interred with military honors, William Henry Allen, 
 Esq. late commander of the United States sloop of 
 war Ai^gus, who lost his left leg in an action with 
 his Majesty' sloop of war Pelican, J. F. Maples Esq. 
 
 •CTiill in Boston, oy Mr. Edmund Hart. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 73 
 
 captain, in St. George's Channel on the 14th ; of 
 which wound he died in the Mill-prison Hospital, on 
 the 18th following. 
 
 The procession left Mill-prison at 12 o'clock : the 
 coffin was covered with a velvet pall, on which was 
 spread the American ensign, under which the action 
 was fought, and upon which the hat and sword of the 
 deceased were laid. On the coffin being removed to 
 the hearse, the guard saluted ; and when deposited in 
 the hearse the procession moved forward, the band 
 playing the" Dead March in Saul." On arrival, 
 near the church, the guard clubbed arms, single files 
 inward, through which the procession passed to the 
 church, into which the corpse was carried and placed 
 in the centre aisle, while the funeral services were 
 read by the Rev. Vicar ; after which it was removed 
 and interred in the south yard (passing through the 
 guard in the same order from as to the church,) on the 
 right of Mr. Delphy, midshipman of the Ai'gus, who 
 lost both legs in the same action, and was buried the 
 preceeding evening. 
 
 ORBER OF PROCESSION. 
 
 Guard of Honor. 
 Lieut. Col. of Royal Marines, 
 with two companies of that corps. 
 The Captains, Subalterns, and field Adjutants, (Officers 
 with hat bands and scarfs.) 
 Royal Marine Band. 
 Vicar and Curate of St. Andrew's. 
 Clerk of ditto. 
 THE HEARSE 
 With the corpse of the diseased Captain, 
 attended by eight seamen, late of the Argus, with 
 crape round their arms, tied with white crape ribbons ; 
 Also, eight British Captains of the Royal Navy, as 
 
 Pall bearers, 
 With hat bands and scarfs. 
 Captain Allen, s servasits in mourning. 
 10 
 
74 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 The Officers, late of the Argus, in uniform, with crape 
 
 sashes, and hat bands, two and two. 
 
 John Hawker Esq. late American Vice-Consul, 
 
 and his Clerks. 
 Captain Pellowe, Commissioner for Prisoners of war. 
 Dr. McGrath, Chief Medical Officer at Mill-prison 
 
 Depot. 
 Captains of the Royal Navy in port, two and two. 
 
 Marine and Army Officers, two and two. 
 
 Servants of the American Officers, two and two. 
 
 Followed by a very numerous and respectable retinue 
 
 of Inhabitants. 
 
 EXTRACT FROM THE BRITISH NAVAL CHRONICLE. 
 
 " As several misstatements have appeared in the 
 public prints relative to the death of the late Capt. Al- 
 len, we subjoin the following particulars, communica- 
 ted to us by a friend, which may be depended on : 
 Capt. Allen's left thigh was amputated by his own 
 surgeon, in a tfery proper manner, about three quar- 
 ters of an hour after the close of the action.-^On the 
 morning after the arrival of the Argus, (Tuesday,) 
 the chief medical officer from Mill-prison attended 
 him, and soon discovered, that dangerous symptoms, 
 which had escaped the observation of his surgeon, 
 who thought favourably of his situation, were insidious- 
 ly approaching, and accordingly communicated his ap- 
 prehensions, and recommended such remedies as were 
 deemed advisable. In the evening he was again visi- 
 ted, when the prognostic given in the morning was 
 found too visibly verified. On the following day his 
 symptoms were much aggravated, and his inunediate 
 removal to Mill-prison llospital was strongly recom- 
 mended, in order to obtain the most prompt remedies, 
 and where he might have all the care and attention his 
 situation demanded. He arrived about noon ; but in 
 spite of every effort, gradually sunk, until he breathed 
 his last, about 11 o'clock that night, during which pe- 
 riod he was never left by his physician. We under- 
 stand he was not conscious of the danger of his situa- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 75 
 
 tion, but conversed flimiliarly with those present with 
 him until about tliree quarters of an hour before he 
 died. His death was conceived to be chiefly occasion- 
 ed by the great loss of blood which he sustained pre- 
 vious to amputation, by his persisting in remaining 
 on deck after he was wounded. Throughout the whole", 
 he bore his sufferings with that manly, determined for- 
 titude and composure, which might be expected of a 
 brave and gallant officer, and never once complained 
 of pain ; but his mind constantly dwelt on the loss of 
 his ship, which he regretted in the most feeling and 
 manly manner. In person he was about six feet high, 
 a model of symmetry and manly comeliness, and in his 
 manner and conversation a highly finished and accom- 
 plished gentleman. 
 
 William Henry Allen* was an officer, no less dis- 
 tinguished by his bravery, than the uniform courtesy 
 and amenity of his manners. In ordinary life we dis- 
 covered nothing of those high qualities, for which, in 
 the hour of danger, he was found to be so preeminent. 
 He relaxed into all the mildness of the polished and 
 amiable gentleman, stated, his opinions with modesty, 
 and carefully abstained from irritating or insultin"- 
 language. His conversation, although peculiarly un- 
 ostentatious, was luminous and instructive, and com- 
 bined the elegance of a scholar with the sound prac- 
 tical sense of a man of intercourse with the world. 
 He studied naval tactics as a sc'ence, and laboured to 
 adorn and decorate the stern anl masculine character 
 of the sailor, with the milder graces and softer embel- 
 lishments. In this he succeeded completely, and was 
 capable of turning to the view the stern and intrepid 
 side of his character, or the milder and more amiable, 
 as occasion required. In his friendships he was ardent 
 and constant. All these advantages Were rendered 
 still more conspicuous by a noble masculine deport- 
 ment, and the fine forms which he inherited from nature 
 A stranger in his company, and perfectly ignorant of his 
 character, would find his heart drawn powerfully to- 
 
 *Lieut. Allen was a native of Rhode Island. 
 
76 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 wards him, by the predominant and pervading sympa- 
 thy, which such endearing quahties excite. He would 
 be disposed to converse more with him, and to culti- 
 vate his friendship. Every hour he would feel this at- 
 tachment growing stronger, as the varied excellences 
 of his character were disclosed in succession. Such 
 Was William Henry Allen. He had adorned his 
 name by his bravery, which was so conspicuous in the 
 affair of the Macedonian. This enlarged his ideas 
 and made him pant for fame, that last infirmity of no- 
 ble minds. He has fallen, indeed, but for all the 
 purposes of life he had lived long enough. He had 
 enjoyed the confidence of his county, and died in the 
 performance of his duty. This humble wreath is not 
 less a tribute to individual friendship, than to justice. 
 
 The following is from an Irish news-paper. 
 It would be injustice not to notice theexcellent con- 
 duct of Capt. Allen, of the Jrgus. He allowed the 
 passengers and crews of the Betseij and Manner to 
 remove^very article of their private property, and in or- 
 der that they might have liberty to do so, he would 
 not suffer one of his officers or crew to be present be- 
 low, whilst they were employed in packing up their 
 effects. Capt. Gilbert, of the Mariner, had left some 
 articles of cabin furniture behind, which Capt. Allen 
 sent after him in his boat. A great coat, belonging to 
 an officer of one of the captured ships, was missing, 
 and it was found in the possession of one of the crew 
 of the Argus. Capt. Allen immediately ordered the 
 man to be tied up, and he actually received a severe 
 flogging. Considerable sums in specie were saved by 
 the pas'sengers, as Capt. Allen would not allow his 
 men to touch a single article. 
 
 COURT OF INQUIRY. 
 
 The following decision and opinion of the court of 
 inquiry, convened at 15altimore, in April last, to in- 
 vestigate the causes of the loss of the Argus, have been 
 received and approved by the secretary of the navy. 
 
Ifll! 
 
 m 
 
 ,ililimiiillt.il>.';»dMilll l'...tV'\;iil..ll,il!! 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 77 
 
 The court, in pursuance of the authority by which 
 they were convened, having carefully examined into 
 the causes of the loss by capture of the U. S. sloop of 
 war Argus, under the command of the late W. H. 
 Allen, master commandant in the navy of the United 
 States, and also into the conduct of the officers and 
 crew of the said sloop of vs^ar, before and after her sur- 
 render to the enemy's ship Pelican, and having mature- 
 ly deliberated upon all the testimony, they find the 
 following facts : 
 
 1. It is proved, that in the number of her crew, and 
 in the number and calibre of her guns, the Pelican 
 was decidedly superiour to the Argus. 
 
 2. They find that the crew of the Argus was very 
 much exhausted by the continued and extraordinary 
 fatigue and exposure to which they had been subjec- 
 ted for several weeks, and particularly for twenty four 
 hours immediately preceding the action. 
 
 3. They find that every officer and man of the Ar- 
 gus, (with the exception of one man, Jacob Allister, 
 and one boy, Hendrick ) made use of every practicable 
 exertion to capture the British sloop of war Pelican. 
 
 They are therefore of opinion, that every officer 
 and man, with the exception before mentioned, dis- 
 played throughout the engagement, a zeal, activity, 
 and spirit in defence of the vessel and flag committed 
 to their protection, which entitles them to the undi- 
 minished confidence and respect of iheir government 
 and fellow citizens, and do therefore honorably acquit 
 them. 
 
 ENTERPRIZE AND BOXER. 
 
 LETTER FROM COM. BAINBRIDGE TO Tni: SECRETARY OF 
 
 THE NAVY. 
 
 Boston September 7, 1813. 
 
 The enclosed letters will give you the information 
 
 of a brilliant victory, gained by the United States 
 
 brig Enterpi'ize, over his Britannic Majesty's brig 
 
 Boxer, of considerable superiority of force. Nothing 
 
78 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 that I can say would add to the lustre of the gallant 
 action, which so decidedly speaks for itself But I 
 cannot restrain my deep regret for the loss of so val- 
 uable an officer as the brave Lieut. Burrows. 
 T have the honor to be, with great respect, 
 
 your obedient servant, 
 Hon. William Jones, W. BAINBRIDGE. 
 Sec'y of the navy. 
 
 LETTER FROM CAPT. HULL TO THE SEc'y OF THE NAVY. 
 
 Sir, Portland, September 7, 1813 
 
 I had the honor last evening to forward you, by ex- 
 press, through the hands of Com. Bainbridge, a let- 
 ter, received from Samuel Storer Esq. navy agent at 
 this place, detailing an account of the capture of the 
 British brig Boxer, by the United States brig Enter- 
 prize. 
 
 I now have to inform you, that I left Portsmouth 
 this morning, and have this moment arrived, and, as 
 the mail is closing, I have only time to enclose you the 
 report of Lt. M'Call, of the Enterprize, and to as- 
 sure you that a statement of the situation of the two 
 vessels, as to the damage they have received, &.c, shall 
 be forwarded as soon as surveys can be made The 
 Boxer has received much damage in her hull, masts, 
 and sails ; indeed it was with difficulty she could be 
 kept afloat to get her in. The Enterprize is only in- 
 jured in her masts and sails. 
 
 I have the honor to be, &c. 
 
 Hon. William JoNEs, ISAAC HULL. 
 
 Secr'y of the navy. 
 
 official ACCOUNT. 
 
 United States bi\^ Enterprize, 
 Sir, Portland, Sept. 7, 1813. 
 
 In consequence of the unfortunate death of Lieut. 
 William Burrows, late commander of this vessel, it 
 devolves, on me to acquaint you with the result of my 
 cruise. After sailing from Portsmouth, on the first 
 inst. we steered to the eastward ; and on the morning 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 79 
 
 of the 3(1, off Wood Island, discovered a schooner, 
 which we chased into this harbour where we anchored. 
 On the morning of the 4th weighed anchor, and swept 
 out, and continued our course to the eastward. Hav- 
 ing received information of several privateers being 
 off Manhagan, we stood for that pla.ce ; and on the 
 following morning, in the bay near Penguin Point, 
 discovered a brig, getting under way, which appeared 
 to be a vessel of war, and to which we immediately 
 gave chase. She fired several guns, and stood for us, 
 having four ensigns hoisted. After reconnoitring and 
 discovering her force, and the nation to which she be- 
 longed, we hauled upon a wind, to stand out of the 
 bay, and at 3 o'clock shortened sail, tacked to run 
 down, with an intention to bring her to close action. 
 At 20 minutes after 3 P. M. when within half pistol 
 shot, the firing commenced from both, and after being 
 warmly kept up, and with some manceuvering, the en- 
 emy hailed, and said they had surrendered, about 4 
 P. M. their' colours being nailed to the masts, could 
 not be hauled down. She proved to be his B. M. brig 
 Boxer, of 14 guns, Samuel Blythe, Esq. commander, 
 who fell in the early part of the engagement, having 
 received a cannon shot through the body. And I am 
 sorry to add, that Lieut. Burrows, who had gallantly 
 led us into action, fell also about the same time by a 
 ni isket ball, which terminated his existance in 8 hours. 
 
 The Enterprize suftered much in spars and rigging, 
 and the Boxer in spars, rigging, and hull, having ma- 
 ny shots between wind and water. 
 
 It would be doing injustice to the merit of Mr. Til- 
 linghast, 2d lieutenant, were I not to mention the able 
 assistance I received from him during the remainder 
 of the engagement, by his strict attention to his own 
 division and other departments, and of the otficers and 
 crew generally, I am happy to add, their cool and de- 
 termined conduct have my warmest approbation and 
 applause. 
 
 As no muster roll, that can be fully relied on, has 
 come into my possession, I cannot exactly state the 
 
80 >'AVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 number killed and wounded on board tlie Boxer, but 
 from information received from the officers of that 
 vessel, it appears there v;ere between 20 and 35 killed, 
 and 14 wounded. Enclosed is a list of the killed and 
 wounded on board the Enterprizc. 
 
 I have the honor to be, &.c. 
 EDWARD R. M'CALL, Senior officer. 
 Isaac Hull, Esq. Commanding 
 naval officer on the eastern station. 
 
 List of killed and wounded on board the United States 
 brig Enterpinze, in the engagement with the Brit- 
 ish brig Boxer, the 5th of September 1813. 
 
 Killed, Nathaniel Garren, seaman. 
 
 Wounded, William Burrows Esq., commander, 
 (since dead ;) Kervin Waters, midsliij)man, mortally ; 
 Elisha Blossom, carpenter's mate, (since dead,) David 
 Norton, quartermaster : Russel Coats, do. ; Thomas 
 Owings, do. ; Benjamin Cammon, boatswain's mate ; 
 four seamen and one marine. 
 
 Killed,!. Wounded, 13. Since dead of wounds, 3. 
 EDWARD R. M'CALL, Senior offiicer. 
 
 LETTER FROM ISAAC HULL ESQ. TO THE SECRETARY OF 
 
 THE NAVY. 
 
 U. S. J\7ivy Yard, Portsmouth, 
 Sir, September, 14, 1813. 
 
 I have the honor to forward you by mail the flags of 
 the late British brig Boxer, which were nailed to her 
 mast heads at the time she engaged, and was captured 
 by the U. S. brig Enterprize. Great as the j)lcasure 
 is that I derive from performing this part of my duty, 
 I need not tell you how diiferent my feelings would 
 have been, could the gaHant Burrows have had this 
 honor. He went into action most galhmtly, and the 
 ditlerence of injury done the two vessels proves how 
 nobly he fought. 
 
 I liave the honor to be &c. 
 
 ISAAC HULL. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 8| 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COM. HULL TO COM. 
 
 BAINBRUX^F.. 
 
 September, 10, 1813. 
 
 "I yesterday visited the two brigs, and was astonish- 
 ed to see the diiTerence of injury sustained in the ac- 
 tion. 
 
 The Entcrprize has but one 18 pound shot in her 
 hull, and one in her mainmast, and one in her fore- 
 mast ; her sails are much cut with grape shot, and 
 there are a great mmiber of grape lodged in her sides, 
 but no injury done by them. — The Borer has eighteen 
 or twenty 18 pound shot in her hull, most of them at 
 the water's edge, several stands of 18 pound grape 
 stick in her side, and such a quantity of small grape, 
 that I did not undertake to count them. Her masts, 
 sails, and spars are literally cut to pieces, several of 
 her guns dismounted, and unfit for service ; her top- 
 gallant forecastle nearly taken off by the shot, her 
 boats cut to pieces, and her quarters injured in pro- 
 portion. To give you an idea of the quantity of shot 
 about her, I inform you, that I counted in her main- 
 mast alone three 18 pound shot holes, 18 large grape 
 shot. holes, 16 musket ball holes, and a large number 
 of smaller shot holes, without counting above the cat 
 harpins. 
 
 We find it impossible to get at the number killed ; 
 no papers are found, by which we can ascertain it. I, 
 however counted upwards of 90 hammocks, which 
 were in her netting with beds in them, besides several 
 beds without hammocks ; and she has excellent ac- 
 commodations for all her officers below in state rooms ; 
 so that I have no doubt, that she had 100 men on board. 
 We know that she has several of the Rattler's men 
 on board, and a quantity of wads was taken out of the 
 Rattler, loaded with four large grape shot, with a 
 small hole in the centre, to put in a cartridge, that the 
 inside of the wad may take fire when it leaves the gun : 
 in short, she is in every respect completely fitted, and 
 her accomodations exceed any thing I have seen in a 
 vessel of her class." 
 
 11 
 
82 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Remarks. There have been various opinions res- 
 pecting the relative force of the vessels ; and some un- 
 generous attempts have been made to diminish the 
 splendor of the victory. The foregoing extracts set- 
 tle the question of force and skill. It appears, that in 
 number of men the enemy were equal ; in number of 
 guns it is well known the enemy were superior; and 
 the vast difference of execution confirms (if confirma- 
 tion were wanted) the fact of the high degree of the 
 superiority of our seamen in the art of gunnery. 
 
 In addition to the particulars officially given we have 
 the following from other sources. The Entei pi ize rates 
 as 12 guns, but carries 16, viz. 14 eighteen pound car- 
 ronades and 2 long 9s ; her officers and crew consis- 
 ted of 102 persons, and her burthen is about 265 tons. 
 The Boxer rates as a 14 gun brig, but carries 18, 
 viz. sixteen 18 pound carronades, and 2 long 9s ; her 
 force, at the time of the action, was 104 men, and her 
 burthen is about 300 tons. The first is an old, hght 
 built vessel, the latter is new and very strong. 
 
 For several days before the Boxer sailed from St. 
 John's, great exertions were made by the government, 
 officers, as well as the magistrates of the place, to pian 
 and equip her in a perfect manner to fight the Enter- 
 prize . Capt. Blythe sailed with the most confident 
 belief of speedily returning to port, crowned with the 
 same laurels, that decked the brow of Broke. 
 
 Soon after the arrival of the Enterprize, and her 
 prize at portland, the bodies of the two commanding 
 officers, Lieut. Burrows and Capt. Blythe, were 
 brought on shore in lenoared barges, rowed at miiuite 
 strokes, by masters of ships, accompanied by most of 
 the barges and boats in the harbour, wiiile minute guns 
 were fired from the two vessels. A grand procession 
 was then formed, which moved through the j)rinciple 
 streets, to the Rev. Mr. Paysons meeting house, where 
 the rites of sepulture were performed, with appropri- 
 ate nmsic, and from thence to the place of interment. 
 
 The order of procession was as follows : 
 
 Military escort, 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. QQ 
 
 Composed of a rifle company and two companies of 
 
 infantry. 
 
 Selectmen of Portland. 
 
 Town Treasurer and Sheriff of the county. 
 
 Town Clerk and other municipal officers. 
 
 The Reverend Clergy. 
 Mr. Le Sassier, ^ Mr. Shields, 
 
 S O 
 Mr. O'Neal, B « 2^ Mr. Turner, 
 
 Mr. Tillinghast, pq Mr. M'Call. 
 Chief mourners 
 Dr. Washington, Capt. Hull. 
 Officers of the brig Enterprize. 
 Crew of the brig Enterprize. 
 
 Lemuel Weeks, Jun. ^ William merrill, 
 
 Seth Barnes, q o^ James Combs, 
 
 fq ^ 
 Joshua Knights, p^ John Alden. 
 
 Officers of the brig Boxer, as mourners, 
 and Officers on Parole. 
 Crew of the brig Boxer. 
 Officers of the United States Navy. 
 Ship masters and Mates. 
 Marshall of Maine. 
 Navy Agent, and 
 The late Consul General to the Barbary powers. 
 Collector of the Port, and Surveyor. 
 Superintendant General of Mihtary Supplies. 
 Officers of the Army of the United States. 
 Military Officers of the State, in uniform. 
 Judges, and other Civil Officers of the United States. 
 Members of Congress. 
 Judiciary of the Commonwealth. 
 Members of the State Legislature. 
 Civil Officers of the State. 
 Portland Marine Society. 
 
84 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Presidents, Directors and Officers of the Banks, and 
 
 Insurance offices. 
 Citizens in general. 
 
 The funeral was attended with all the honors that 
 the civil and military authorities of the place, and tlie 
 greats body of the people could bestow. The whole 
 scene was strikingly impressive. The bells were toll- 
 ed, and two companies of artillery fired minute guns, 
 which were repeated from forts Preble and Scammel. 
 
 Lieut. Burrows was a young man of uncommon 
 worth. He was the son of Col. Burrows, of South 
 Carolina, formerly of the marine corps. He lived 
 with honor, and died with glory. By his early death * 
 his country has lost an able commander, and his two 
 surviving sisters a brother, whose excellencies they 
 will never cease to remember. He was intelligent, in- 
 trepid, generous and humane. He was ambitious to 
 add lustre to the American navy, and eagerly rushed 
 into a combat, which issued in a signal victory over a 
 superior force. He received a mortal wound at the 
 commencement of the action, but refused to be cjir- 
 ried below until the sword of his enemy was presented 
 to him. He siezed it with both hands, and exclaim- 
 ed, '■'■ I am satisfied, I die contented,'' and soon expir- 
 ed. Of Lieut, M'Callf the public will judge by the 
 termination of the fight, and his modest account of it. 
 
 Capt. Blakely, late of tiie Entcrprize, to whom 
 certainly some part of the credit is due for the com- 
 plete discipline of the men, had a siiort time before 
 left that vessel, to superintend the building and fitting 
 out of a new sloop of war, which he was to command 
 
 Capt. BIythe, killed on board the Boxer, had dis 
 tinguished himself at the conquest of Cayenne, and 
 received of the Prince Regent of England a hnnd- 
 some present in money, to purchase a sword or some 
 other memorial. His opponent, the invincible Bur- 
 rows, had little or no experience in the business of a 
 battle, jmd Lieut. M'CjiII, on whom the connnand of 
 the Enterprize devolved, had never seen a fight. 
 
 *He had just entered his twenty eijjhth year. 
 iLieut. M'Call was a native of Soulii Carolina 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 85 
 
 BATTLE OF LAKE ERIE. 
 
 COPY OF A LETTER FROM COM. PERRY TO THE SECRETARY 
 
 OF THE NAVY. 
 
 U. S. Bri^ Magara, off the IVestcrn Sister, 
 Sir, Lake Erie, Sej^t. 10, 1813. 
 
 It has pleased the Ahni«jlity to give to the arms of 
 the United States a signal victory over their enemies 
 on this lake. The British squadron, consisting of 2 
 ships, 2 brigs, 1 schooner, and one sloop, have this 
 moment surrendered to the force under my command, 
 after a sharp conflict. 
 
 I have the honor to be, Sir, very respectfully, 
 
 your obedient servant, 
 
 Hon, William Jones O. H. PERRY.* 
 
 Sec'y of the navy. 
 
 LETTERS FROM COM. PERRY TO MAJ. GEN. HARRISON. 
 
 U. S. Brig Magara, off the Western Sister, 
 Dear General, Lake Erie, Sept. 10, 1813. 
 
 We have met the enemy ; and they are ours ! 2 
 ships, 2 brigs, 1 schooner, and 1 sloop. 
 
 Yours with great respect and esteem, 
 Gen. Harrison. O. H. PERRY. 
 
 Dear Sir, September U. 18\3 
 
 We have a great number of prisoners, which I wish 
 to land : will you be so good as to order a guard to 
 receive them ; and inform me of the place ? Consid- 
 erable numbers have been killed and wounded on both 
 sides. From the best information, we have more 
 prisoners than we have men on board our vessels. In 
 great haste, 
 
 yours very truly. 
 Gen. Harrison. O. H. PERRY. 
 
 * Com- Perry is a native of Newport R I and son of Com. Christopher R. 
 Perry, wiio formely commanded the frigate General Green. 
 
86 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 COPY OFA LETTERFROM COM. PEIIKY TO THE SECRETARY 
 
 OF THE NAVY. 
 
 »■ U. S. Schooner Ariel^ Put-in-Bay, 
 Sir, September 13, 1813. 
 
 In my last I informed you that we had captured the 
 enemy's fleet on this lake. I have now the honor to 
 give you the most important particulars of the action. 
 On the morning of the 10th instant, at sunrise they 
 were discovered from Put-in-Bay, where I lay at an- 
 chor with the squadron under my command. We got 
 under way, the wind light at S. W. and stood for 
 them. At 10 A. 31. the wind hauled to S. E. and 
 brought us to windward : formed the line and bore up. 
 At 15 minutes before \2, the enemy commenced fir- 
 ing ; at 5 minutes before 12, the action commenced on 
 our part. Finding their fire very destructive, owing 
 to their long guns, and its being mostly directed at 
 the Lawrence, I made sail and directed the other ves- 
 sels to follow for the purpose of closing with the ene- 
 my. Every brace and bow-line being shot away, she 
 became unmanageable, notwithstanding the great ex- 
 ertions of the sailing master. In this situation she 
 sustained the action upwards of 2 hours within cannis- 
 ter distance, until every gun was rendered useless, and 
 the greater part of her crew either killed or wounded. 
 Finding she could no longer annoy the enemy, I left 
 her in charge of Lieut. Yarnall, who I was convinced, 
 from the bravery already displayed by him, would do 
 what would comport with the lionor of the flag. At 
 half past two, the wind springing up, Capt. Elliott was 
 enabled to bring his vessel, the Atagara, gallantly in- 
 to close action : I immediately went on board of her, 
 when he anticipated my wish by volunteering to bring 
 the schooners which had been kept astern by the light- 
 ness of the wind, into close action. It was with un- 
 speakable pain, that I saw, soon after I got on board 
 the JViagara, the flag of the Lawrence come down, 
 although I was perfectly sensible that she had been 
 defended to the last, and that to have continued to 
 
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 A^ 
 
 
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NAVAL MONUMENT. 87 
 
 make a show of resistance would have been a wan on 
 sacrifice of the remains of her brave crew But the 
 enemy was not able to take possession of her and 
 circumstances soon permitted her flag agam to be 
 hoisted. At 45 minutes past 2, the sjgnal was made 
 foreclose action." The Magara bemg very l.ttle 
 injured, I determined to pass through the enemy s 
 line, bore up and passed ahead of the.r two ships and 
 a br g, giving a rdiing fire to them from the starboard 
 guns^and to°a large schooner and sloop from the lar- 
 Lard side at half pistol shot distance. Tlie snialler 
 vessels at this time having got withm grape and -^a"" 
 nister distance, under the direction of Capt. Ell.o., 
 and keeoin.' up a well directed fire, the two ships, a 
 brfg and'^a schooner surrendered, a schooner and sloop 
 makins a vain attempt to escape. 
 
 Those officers and men who were immediately under 
 my observation evinced the greatest gallantry, and 1 
 hie no doubt that all others conducted themselves as 
 became American officers and seamen, bieut. i ar- 
 naU^rst of the Lmorence, although several tnnes 
 wol'nded refused to quit. he deck. Midshipman For- 
 rest (doing duty as lieutenant) and «a'l'"g-f »^^^J 
 Tailor were of great assistance to me. I have gieat 
 JiTn in sTating to'you the death of Lt Brooks of^ the 
 
 marines, and Midshipman V?;\' ''°f\e W^o«- 
 rence, and Midshipman John Clarke of the Scm^on 
 thev were valuable and promismg officers. Mr. Ham 
 blln, purser, who volunteered his services on deck 
 was severely wounded late in the action. Midslup 
 men claxon and Swartwout of the Lmvrence were 
 Teverely bounded. On board of the Niagara, Lieut- 
 «' Smith and Edwards, and >'dsh.P-n Web- 
 ster (doing duty as a -'^"g^"- -' ."^.f^^fhe arm^ 
 ry handsome manner. Capt. areevoo i oi J- 
 
 vvho acted as a volunteer in the capac y "^ ^ ™^™;« 
 officer on board that vessel, is an excellent and b ave 
 oTice and with his musketry did great execution^ 
 Li'i.' Turner, comnianding the CaU^^^^^^'^^ 
 that vessel inlo aclion in the most able mannei. and 
 
88 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 is an officer that in all situations may be relied on. 
 
 The Jlriel, Lieut. Packet, and Scorpion^ Sailing 
 Master Champlin, were enabled to get early into ac 
 tion, and were of great service. Capt. Elliott speaks 
 in the highest terms of Mr. Magrath, purser, who had 
 been despatched in a boat on service previous to my 
 getting on board the JVia^ara ; and, being a seaman, 
 since the action has rendered essential service in ta- 
 king charge of one of the prizes. Of Capt. Elliott, 
 already so well known to the government, it would be 
 almost superfluous to speak. In this action he evin- 
 ced his characteristic bravery and judgment, and, since 
 the close of the action, has given me the most able 
 and essential assistance. 
 
 I liave the honor to enclose you a return of the kil- 
 led and wounded, together with a statement of the 
 relative force of the squadrons. The captain and 1st 
 lieutenant of the Queen Charlotte and the 1st lieuten- 
 ant of the Detroit were killed : Capt. Barclay, senior 
 officer, and the commander of the Lady Prevost, se- 
 verely wounded : the commander of the Hunter and 
 Chippeimy slightly wounded. Their loss in killed 
 and wounded I have not yet been able to ascertain ; 
 it must however have been very great. 
 
 Very respectfully, I have the honor to be, 
 Sir, your obedient servant, 
 Hon. William Jones, O. H. PERRY. 
 
 Sec'y of the navy. 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COM. PERRY. 
 
 U. S. Schooner Ariel, Put-in-Bay, 
 Sir, September 13, 1813. 
 
 I have caused the prisoners taken on the 10th inst. 
 to be landed at Sandusky, and have requested Gen. 
 Harrison to have them marched to Chilicothe, and 
 there wait until your pleasure shall be known respec- 
 ting them. 
 
 The Lawrence has been entirely cut up : it is abso- 
 lutely necessary she should go into a safe harbor. I 
 have therefore directed Lieut!. Varnall to proceed to 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 89 
 
 Erie in her, with the wounded of the fleet, and dis- 
 mantle and get her over the bar as soon as possible. 
 
 The two ships in a heavy sea this day at anchor lost 
 their masts, being much injured in the action. I shall 
 haul them into the inner bay at this place, and moor 
 them for the present. The Detroit is a remarkably 
 fine ship, sails well, and is very strongly built. The 
 Queen Charlotte is a much superior vessel to what 
 has been represented. The Lady Prevost is a large, 
 fine schooner. 
 
 I also beg your instructions respecting the wounded. 
 I am satisfied, Sir, that whatever steps I might take, 
 governed by humanity, would meet your approbation. 
 Under this impression, I have taken upon myself to 
 promise Capt. Barclay, who is very dangerously 
 wounded, that he shall be landed as near Lake 
 Ontario as possible, and I had no doubt you would 
 allow me to parole him. He is under the impression 
 that nothing but leaving this part of the country will 
 save his life. 
 
 Tiiere js also a number of Canadians among the 
 prisoners, many of whom have families. 
 T have the honor to be, Sir, 
 
 very respectfully, your obed't serv't, 
 
 Hon William Jones, O. H. PERRY. 
 
 Sec'ij of the navy. 
 
 STATEMENT OF TH^ FOUCf: OF THE BRITISH SQUAI'HON. 
 
 Ship Detroit,* - - 19 guns-1 on pivot, and 2 howitzers. 
 
 Queen Charlotte, 17 do. 1 do. 
 
 Sch. Lady Prevost, 13 do, 1 do. 
 
 BrijT Hunter, - 10 do. 
 
 Sl'p Little Belt, 3 do. 
 
 Sch. Chippeway, 1 do. and 2 swivels-Total, G.3 guns. 
 
 statement OF -n^ force of the U. S. SQUADllON. 
 
 Brig liawrence, - 20 guns. 
 Niagara - - 20 do. 
 Caledonia, - 3 do. 
 
 'The Detroit is a new ship, very strongly built, and mounts long 24s, 18sandl2i, 
 
 12 
 
90 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Sch. Ariel, - - 4 guns, (one burst early in the action.) 
 
 Scorpion - 2 do. 
 
 Somers - 2 do. and 2 swivels. 
 
 Sl'p Trippe, 1 do. 
 
 Sell. Tigress, 1 do. 
 
 Porcupine, 1 do. — Total, 54 guns. 
 
 The exact number of the enemy's force has not 
 been ascertained, but I have good reason to believe 
 that it exceeded ours by nearly one hundred men. 
 
 List of killed and wounded on board the United 
 States squadron, under command of O. II. Perry 
 Esq. in the action of lOth September, 1813. 
 
 On board the Lawrence. Killed — John Brooks, 
 lieutenant of marines ; * Henry Laub, midshipman ; 
 Christian Mayhevv, quarter master ; eleven seamen, 
 and one sail maker, one carpenter, one private, and 
 three marines. 
 
 Wounded — John J. Yarnall, 1st lieutenant, slight- 
 ly ; Dulaney Forrest, 2d do. do. ; William N. Tay- 
 lor, sailing master, do. ; Samuel Hambleton, purser, 
 severely ; Thomas Claxton, Augustus Swartwout, 
 midshipmen, severely ; Jonas Stone, carpenter slight- 
 ly ; William C. Keen, master at arms, do ; Francis 
 Mason, John Neuen, quarter masters, severely ; Jo- 
 seph Lewis, Ezekiel Fowler, quarter masters, slight- 
 ly ; John E. Brown, quarter gunner, severely ; Will- 
 iam Johnson, boatswain's mate, do ; James Helan, 
 do. slightly ; George Cornell, carpenter's mate, do. 
 and forty five seamen and marines. 
 
 [On the morning of the action, the sick list of the 
 Lawrence contained 31 unfit for duty.] 
 
 0)1 board the JViagara. Killed — Peter Morel, 
 seamen, Isaac Hardy, ord. seamen. — 2 
 
 Wounded. — John J. Edwards, lieutenant ; John 
 C. Cummings, midshipman ; and twenty one seamen 
 and marines. 
 
 • A sdii of the late Gov. Brooks of Medford, Mass. He was an accomplished 
 gentleman and brave officer 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 91 
 
 [On the morning of the action, the sick list of the 
 JViagara contained 28 unfit for duty.] 
 
 On board the Caledonia. Wounded — James 
 Artus, Isaac Perkins, James Philhps, shghtlj — 3. 
 
 On board the Somers. Wounded — Charles Or- 
 deen, Godfrey Bowman — 2. 
 
 On board the Jlriel. Killed — John White, boat- 
 swain's mate — 1. 
 
 Wounded — William SIoss, ord. seaman, slightly; 
 Robert Wilson, seaman, do ; John Lucas, landsman, 
 do.— 3. 
 
 On board the Trippe. Wounded — Isaac Green, 
 soldier, 26th regiment, badly ; John Failes, do. 17th, 
 slightly — 2. 
 
 On board the Porcupine. None killed or wounded. 
 
 On board the Scorpion. Killed — John Clark, 
 midshipman ; John Sylhamamer, landsman — 2. 
 
 On board the Tigress. None killed or wounded. 
 
 [Two days previous to the action, 57 men unfit for 
 service in the small vessels.] 
 
 
 RECAPITULATION. 
 
 
 
 Killed. 
 
 Wounded. 
 
 TotaL 
 
 Lawrence, 
 
 22 
 
 61 
 
 83 
 
 Niagara, 
 
 2 
 
 25 
 
 27 
 
 Caledonia, 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 3 
 
 Somers, 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 Ariel, 
 
 1 
 
 3 
 
 4 
 
 Trippe, 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 2 
 
 Scorpion, 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 27 9(^ \9{ 
 
 S. HAMBLETON, Vnrser. 
 O. H. PERRY, Captain. 
 
 and senior officer. 
 
 Of the 96 wounded in the battle of Lake Erie, on- 
 ly four died : most of the wounded were fit for duty 
 in a short time. 
 
 Just before the battle, Com. Perry hoisted the union 
 jack, having for a motto the dying words of Lawrence, 
 
92 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 "dont give up the ship." It was received with repea- 
 ted huzzas hy the officers and crews. 
 
 The victory of Com. Perry was the result of skill, 
 courage, and enterprise, against superior force. Both 
 the quality and amount of the force he had to contend 
 with ought to have given a triumph to the other side ; 
 and at the time of the surrender, the odds were increas- 
 ed against him, since his own ship after having suffered 
 more than perhaps a vessel of the same size and force 
 ever did heibre, had been compelled to strike. The im- 
 mediate termination of the battle appears to have been 
 decided by the bold Nelsonian measure, of breaking 
 through the British line and coming to close action. 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A NAVAL OFFICER AT ERIE. 
 
 October 7, 1813. 
 
 "Had I been able, I should before nov/ have sent 
 you some particulars of the action of the memora- 
 ble 10th of September. As w^e have not many let- 
 ter writers in our squadron, the public will have to 
 put up with the Commodore's 'round, unvarnished 
 tale ;' which however is very well told. All the fault 
 I find with it is, that he himself is too much in the back 
 ground. 
 
 "In no action fought this war has the cowduct of 
 the commanding officer been so conspicious or so evi- 
 idently decisive of the fate of the battle, as in this. 
 When he discovered that nothing further could be 
 done in the Laiorence, he wisely removed to the A'i- 
 agara, and by one of the boldest and most judicious 
 manoeuvres ever practised, decided the contest at once. 
 Had the JViagara shared the fate of the Lawrence^ 
 it was his intention to have removed to the next best 
 vessel, and so on as long as one of his sq<:adron con- 
 tinued to float. The enemy saw him put off, and ac- 
 knowledge that they fired a broadside at him. With 
 his usual gallantry he went off standing up in the stern 
 of tlie boat ; but the crew insisted on his sitting down. 
 The enemy speak with admiration of the manner in 
 which the Lawrence bore down upon them. She 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 93 
 
 continued her course so long and so obstinately, that 
 they thought we were going to board them. They 
 had a great advantage in having long guns. Many 
 of our men were killed on the birth deck and in the 
 steerage, after they were taken below to be dressed — 
 Midshipman Laub was of this number. One shot 
 went through the light room, and knocked the snuff of 
 the candle into the magazine — The gunner happened 
 to see it immediately, and extinguished it with his 
 hand : 2 shot passed through the magazine ; 2 through 
 the cabin ; 3 or 4 came into the ward room — but I be- 
 lieve only one went quite through, and that passed a 
 few inches over the surgeon's head as he sat in the 
 cockpit. Our short guns lodged their shot in the bul- 
 warks of the Detroit ; where a number of them now 
 remain. Her bulwarks however were vastly superior 
 to ours, being of oak and very thick. Many of their 
 grape shot came through ours. They acknowledge 
 that they threw combustible matter on board of us, 
 which set our sails and rigging on fire in several pla- 
 ces. I am clearly of opinion, that they were better 
 manned than we were. They had a much greater 
 number — they had veteran troops — their men were all 
 well. We had as motlev a crew as ever went into ac- 
 tion ; and our vessels looked like hospital ships. 
 
 "During the whole of the action the most complete 
 order prevailed on board the Laivrence. There was 
 no noise, no bustle, no confusion. As fast as the men 
 were wounded they were taken below and replaced 
 by others. The dead remained where they fell until 
 the action was over. Capt. Perry exhibited that cool, 
 collected, dignified bravery, which those acquainted 
 with him would have expected. His countenance all 
 the time was just as composed as if he had been en- 
 gaged in ordinary duty. As soon as the action was 
 over he gave all his attention to the securing of the 
 prisoners and to the wounded on both sides. Capt. 
 ^ -clay declared to one of our oflicers, several days 
 ai. r the action, that Capt. Perry had done himself im- 
 mortal honor by his humanity and attention to the 
 
94i NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 wounded prisoners. The action was fought on Fri- 
 day — we got into harbor next day. On Sunday all 
 the officers on both sides, who fell, were buried on 
 South Bass Island, at Put-in-Bay, with the honors 
 of war. 
 
 "I am sorry to inform you that Midshipman Claxton 
 died of his wounds this morning. 
 
 "There were two Indian chiefs on board the De- 
 troit. The 2d lieutenant informed me, that as soon 
 as the action became general they ran below." 
 
 The suite of Com. Perry, on his arrival at Newport, 
 R. I. consisted of his brother, and the four sailors 
 that rowed him from the Lawrence to the JViagara. 
 It is said that in passing from the Lawrence to the 
 JViagara, in an open boat, the gallant commodore 
 stood up until he received two broadsides, directed 
 at his little barque from the enemy, and was then pul- 
 led down by the skirts of his coat, by the faithful tars, 
 that accompanied him. 
 
 Com. Barclay certainly did himself honor by a 
 brave and obstinate resistance. He had seen much 
 service, having been dangerously wounded in the bat- 
 tle of Trafalgar, and afterwards losing an arm in anoth- 
 er engagement with the French. In this battle, he 
 was twice carried below, on account of his wounds, 
 and unfortunately lost his remaining hand. 
 
 At a public dinner and ball, given to Com. Bar- 
 clay, at Terrebonne, (Canada) this gallant, but unfor- 
 tunate officer, gave the following toast : — ^'Com. Per- 
 ry, the gallant and generous enemy." 
 
 Gen. Harrison sent reinforcements to assist Com. 
 Perry in the action, which terminated in the capture 
 of the whole British fleet. In return. Com. Perry 
 volunteered with Gen. Harrison, and assisted him in 
 the capture of the British army. 
 
 In the following letter justice is done to the zeal of 
 Gen. Harrison and his gallant sohViers. 
 
 Sir, U. S. Schooner Ariel, Sept. 15, 1813. 
 
 The very great assistance, in the action of the 10th 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 95 
 
 inst. derived from those men you were pleased to send on 
 board the squadron, renders it a -duty to return you 
 my sincere thanks for so timely a reinforcement. In 
 fact, Sir, I may say, without those men the victory 
 could not have been achieved; and equally to assure 
 you, that those officers and men behaved as became 
 good soldiers and seamen. Those who were under 
 my immediate observation, evinced great ardour and 
 bravery. Capt. Prevort, of the 2d company of Infan- 
 try, serving on board the Niagara, I beg leave to rec- 
 ommend particularly to your notice : he is a brave and 
 gallant officer, and as far as I am capable of judging, 
 an excellent one. I am convinced you will present the 
 merit of this officer to the view of the Hon. Secretary 
 of War, as I shall to the Hon. Secretary of the Navy. 
 Very respectfully, I am, sir, 
 
 your obedient servant, 
 Maj. Gen. W. H. Harrison, O. H. PERRY. 
 Commander in chief of the JV. W. army^ 
 
 An officer on board the Lawrence, and a volunteer 
 on board the same vessel, having circulated a report, 
 that the Niagara, commanded by Capt. Jesse D. Elli- 
 ott, had not taU'^ii an active part in the battle, the fol- 
 lowing notes of Captains Perry and Elliott are inser- 
 ted, which prove the report to have been totally false 
 
 United States Brig JS'^iagara, 
 Sir, Put-in-Bay, September 18, 1813. 
 
 I am informed a report has been circulated by some 
 malicious person, prejudicial to my vessel, when en- 
 gaged with the enemy's fleet. I will thank you, if you 
 will, with candour, state to me the conduct of myself, 
 officers and crew. 
 
 Respectfully your obedient servant, 
 Capt. O. H. Perry. JESSE D. ELLIOTT. 
 
 United States Schooner ^riel, 
 Mr DEAR sir, Put-in-Bay, September IS, 1813. 
 I received your note last evening after I had turned 
 in, or I should have answered it immediatelv. I am 
 
96 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 indignant that any report should be circulated, preju- 
 dicial to your character, as respects the action of the 
 10th instant. It affords me great pleasure that I have 
 it in my power to assure you, that the conduct of your- 
 self, officers, and crew was such as to meet my warm- 
 est approbation. And I consider the circumstance of 
 your volunteering and bringing the small vessels into 
 close action, as contributing largely to our victory. 
 I shall ever believe it a premeditated plan to destroy 
 our commanding vessel. I have no doubt had not the 
 Queen Charlotte run from the Niagara, from the su- 
 perior order I observed her in, you would have taken 
 her in twenty minutes. 
 
 With sentiments of esteem I am, dear Sir, 
 your friend and obedient servant 
 Capt. J. D. Elliott. O. II. PERRY. 
 
 The following is the opinion of the court of inquiry, 
 held on board the United States sloop of war Ontario, 
 in the harbor of New York, in pursuance of the follow- 
 orders. 
 
 Sir Navy Department, April 20, 1815, 
 
 It has been stated to this department, that by the 
 proceedings of a court of inquiry, in Great Britain, 
 ordered to investigate the causes of the loss of the 
 British fleet on Lake Erie, on the 10th of September 
 1813, the conduct of Capt. Jesse D. Elliott, of the 
 United States navy, who commanded the brig Niag- 
 ara on that day, is misrepresented ; justice to the re- 
 putation of Capt ElHott, and to the navy of the Uni- 
 ted States, requires liiat a true statement of the facts 
 in relation to his conduct on that occasion, beexibited 
 to the workl. Tiie court therefore, of which you are 
 president, will inmiedialely j)ruceed to inquire into tiie 
 same, to ascertain the part he sustained in the action 
 of that day, and report its opinion thereon to this de- 
 partment. 
 
 1 am very respectively, your obedient servant, 
 Com. A. MuKRAY, B. W. CROWNINCSllIELD. 
 
 New York, 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 97 
 
 The court of inquiry, convened at the request of 
 Capt. Jesse D. ElHott, having deliberately examined 
 all the evidences produced before them, for the pur- 
 pose of investigating his conduct in the glorious bat- 
 tle on Lake Erie, on the 10th of September 1813, in 
 which he bore so conspicuous a part, sincerely regret, 
 that there should have been any diversity of opinion 
 respecting the events of that day ; and imperious duty 
 compels the court to promulgate testimony that ap- 
 pears materially to vary in some of its important points. 
 The court however feel convinced, that the attempts 
 to wrest from Capt. Elliott the laurels he gained in 
 that splendid victory, as second in command under 
 that gallant and highly meritorious officer, Capt. Per- 
 ry ought in no wise to lesson him in the opinion of his 
 fellow citizens, as a brave and skilful officer, and that 
 the charge made in the proceedings of the British court 
 martial, by which Capt. Barclay was tried, of his at- 
 tempting to withdraw from the battle, is malicious, and 
 unfounded in fact. On the contrary, it has been pro- 
 ved to the satisfaction of this court, that the enemy's 
 ship. Queen Charlotte, bore oif from the fire of the 
 JViagara, commanded by Capt. Elliott. 
 
 ALEXANDER MURRAY, Pres. 
 
 HENRY WHEATON Judge Adv, 
 Approved, B. W. Crowningshield. 
 
 LOSS OF THE ESSEX. 
 
 COPY OF A LETTER FROM CAPT. PORTER, TO THE SEC- 
 RETARY OF THE NAVY. • 
 
 Sir, . Essex Junior, at sea, July 3, 1814. 
 
 I HAVE done myself the honor to address you re- 
 peatedly, since I left the Delaware ; but have scarce- 
 ly a hope that one of my letters has reached you ; 
 therefore consider it necessary to give a brief history of 
 my proceeding since that period. 
 
 I sailed from the Delaware on the 27th of October 
 1812, and rjttaired, with all dilligence, (agreeably to 
 instruction from Com. Bainbridge) to Port Praya, 
 13 
 
98 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Fernando de Noronho, and Cape Frio ; and arrived 
 at each place on the day appointed to meet him. On 
 my passage from Port Praya to Fernando de Noronho, 
 I captured H. B. M. packet JVocton ; and after taking 
 out about 11,000/. sterhng in specie, sent her under 
 command of Lieut. Finch, for America. I cruised 
 off Rio de Janeiro, and about Cape Frio, until the 
 12th January 1813, hearing frequently of the Com- 
 modore, by vessels from Bahia. I here captured but one 
 schooner, with hides and tallow. I sent her into Rio. 
 The Montague^ the admiral's ship being in pursuit 
 of me, my provisions now getting short, and finding it 
 necessary to look out for a supply, to enable, me to 
 meet the commodore by the 1st of April off St. Helena, 
 I proceed to the Island of St. Catharines, (the last 
 place of rendezvous on the coast of Brazil) as the 
 most likely to supply my wants, and at the same time 
 afford me that secrecy necessary to enable me to al- 
 lude the British ships of war on the coast, and expec- 
 ted there. I here could procure only wood, water 
 and rum, and a few bags of flour ; and hearing of the 
 commodore's action with the Java, the capture of the 
 Hornet by the Montague, and a considerable aug- 
 mentation of the British force on the coast, and of 
 several being in pursuit of me, I found it necessary to 
 get to sea as soon as possible. I now, agreeably to 
 the commodore's plan, stretched to the southward, 
 scouring the coast as far as Rio de la Plata. I heard 
 that Buenos Ayres was in a state of starvation, and 
 could not supply our wants ; and that the govern- 
 ment of Montevideo was very inimical to us. The 
 commodore's instructions now left it discretionary 
 with me what course to pursue, and I determined on 
 following that which had not only met his approbation, 
 but the approbation of the then secretary of the navy. 
 I accordingly shaped my course for the Pacific; and 
 after suffering greatly from short allowance of provi- 
 sion and heavy gales off Ca|)e Horn (for which my 
 ship and men were illy provided) I amved at Val- 
 paraiso on the 14.th March 1813. I liere took in as 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 99 
 
 much jerked beef, and other provisions, as my ship 
 would conveniently stow, and run down the coast of 
 Chili and Peru ; in this track, I fell in with a Paru- 
 vian corsair, which had on board 24 Americans as 
 prisoners, the crews of two whale ships, which she had 
 taken on the coast of Chili. The captain informed 
 me, that as the allies of Great Britain, they would 
 capture all they should meet with, in expectation of 
 a war between Spain and the United States. I conse- 
 quently threw all his guns and ammunition into the sea, 
 liberated the Americans, wrote a respectful letter to 
 the Vice Roy, explaining the cause of my proceedings, 
 which I delivered to her captain. I then proceeded from 
 liima and re-captured one of the vessels as she was en- 
 tering the port. From thence I proceeded for the Gal- 
 lapagos islands, where I cruised from the 17th April, 
 until the 3d of October, 1813 ; during which time I 
 touched only once on the coast of America, which was 
 for the purpose of procuring a supply of fresh water, 
 as none is to be found among those islands ; which are 
 perhaps the most barren and desolate of any known. 
 While among tiiis group I captured the following 
 British ships, employed chiefly in the spermaceti whale 
 fishery — viz. 
 
 LETTERS OF MARQUE. 
 
 
 Tons. 
 
 Men. 
 
 Gun-: 
 
 Pierced lor 
 
 Montezuma, 
 
 270 
 
 21 
 
 2 
 
 
 Policy, 
 
 175 
 
 2() 
 
 10 
 
 18 
 
 Georgiana, 
 
 280 
 
 25 
 
 6 
 
 18 
 
 Greenwich, 
 
 338 
 
 2o 
 
 10 
 
 20 • 
 
 Atlantic, 
 
 353 
 
 24 
 
 8 
 
 20 
 
 Rose, 
 
 220 
 
 21 
 
 8 
 
 20 
 
 Hector, 
 
 270 
 
 2^ 
 
 11 
 
 20 
 
 Catharine, 
 
 270 
 
 29 
 
 8 
 
 \^ 
 
 Seringapatam, 
 
 357 
 
 31 
 
 14 
 
 2(J 
 
 Charlton, 
 
 274 
 
 21 
 
 11) 
 
 H 
 
 New Zealander, 
 
 259 
 
 2^^ 
 
 8 
 
 !3 
 
 Sir A. Hammond, 
 
 301 
 
 31 
 
 12 
 
 18 
 
 3369 302 107 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 As some of those ships were captured by boats, and 
 others by prizes, my oHicers and men had several op 
 portimities of shewinir iheir gallantry. 
 
 The Rose and Charlton were given up to the prison- 
 ers ; the Hector, Catharine, and Montezuma, I sent 
 to Valparaiso, where !h<^y were laid up ; the Policy ^ 
 Georgiana, and JS'ew- Zcalander I sent for America ; 
 the Greemcich I kept as a store ship, to contain the 
 stores of my other prizes, necessary for us ; and the 
 Atlantic, now called the Essex- Junior, I equipped 
 will 20 guns, and gave command of her to Lieut. 
 Downes. 
 
 Lieut. Downes had convoyed prizes to Valparaiso, 
 and on his return brought me letters informing me, 
 that a squadron under the command of C-om. James 
 Hillyar, consisting of i he frigate Phabe, of i}6 guns, 
 the Racoon and Cherub sloop of war, and a store ship 
 of 20 guns, had sailed on the 6th of July for this sea. 
 The Racoon and Chi'rub had been seeking me for 
 some time on the coast of Brazil, and on their return 
 from their cruise, joined the squadron sent in search 
 of me to the Pacific. My ship, as it may be supposed, 
 after being near a year at sea, required some rej>airs to 
 put her in a state to meet them ; which I determined 
 to do, and to bring them to action, if I could meet 
 them on nearly equal terms. I proceeded now, in 
 company with the remainder of my prizes, to the 
 island of Nooaheevah, or Madison Island, lying in the 
 Washington groupe, discovered by Capt. Ingraham 
 of Boston : here I caulked and completely overhauled 
 my ship, made for her a new set of water casks, her 
 old ones being entirely decayed, and took on board 
 from my prizes provisions and stores for upwards of 
 four months, and sailed for the coast of Chili on the 
 12th December, 1813. Previous to sailing, I secur 
 ed the Screngrtpatam, Greemvich and Sir Andrew 
 Hammond under the guns of a battery, which I erec 
 ted for their protection. After taking possession ot 
 this fine island for the United States, and establishing 
 the most friendly intercourse with the nativtis, I left 
 
NAVAL MOxXUMENT. 101 
 
 them under the charge of Lieut. Gamble of the ma- 
 rines, with twenty-one men, with orders to repair to 
 Valparaiso, after a certain period. 
 
 I arrived on the coast of Chili on the 1,2th January, 
 1814 : looked into Conception and Valparaiso, found at 
 both p'laces only three English vessels, and learned that 
 the squadron, whjch sailed from Rio de Janeiro for 
 that sea, had not been heard of since their departure; 
 and were supposed to be lost in endeavoring to double 
 Cape-Horn. 
 
 I had completely broken up the British navigation 
 in the Pacific ; the vessels which had not been captur- 
 ed by me, were laid up, and dare not venture out. I 
 had afforded the most ample protection to our own 
 vessels, which were on my arrival, very numerous and 
 unprotected. The valuable whale fishery there is en- 
 tirely destroyed, and the actual injury we have done 
 them may be estimated at two and a half millions o> 
 dollars independent of the expense of vessels,.in searcn 
 of me. They have furnished me amply with salfis^ cor- 
 dage, cables, anchors, provisions, medicines and stores 
 of every discription ; and the slops on board them 
 have furnished clothing for the seamen. We have in 
 fact lived on the enemy since I have been in that sea, 
 every prize having proved a well found store-ship for 
 me. I had not yet been under, the necessity of draw- 
 ing hills on the department for any object, and had 
 been enabled tomake considerable advances to my offi- 
 cers and crew on account of pay. 
 
 For the unexampled time we had kept the sea, my 
 crew had been remarkably healthy ; I had but one 
 case of the scurvy ; and had lost only the following 
 men by death, viz, John S. Cowan, lieutenant ; 
 RoI)ert Miller, surgeon ; Levi Holmes, Edward 
 Sweeney, ord. seamen ; Samuel Groce, seaman ; 
 James Spaffbrd, gunner's mate ; Benjamin Geers, 
 John Rodgers, quarter-gunners ; Andrew Mahan, cor- 
 poral of marines ; Lewis Price, private marine. 
 
 I had done all the injury that could be done the 
 British commerce in the Pacific, and still hoped t > 
 
102 NAVAL MONUMEiNT. 
 
 signalize my cruise by something more splended before 
 leaving that sea. I thought it not improbable that Com. 
 Hillyar might have kept his arrival secret, and believ- 
 ing that he would seek me at Valparaiso, as the most 
 likely place to find me, I therefore determined to cruise 
 about that place, and should I fail of meeting him, 
 hoped to be compensated by the capture of some mer- 
 chant ships, said to be expected from England. 
 
 The F/ioehe, agreeably to my expectations, came to 
 seek me at Valparaiso, where I was anchored with the 
 Essex, and my armed prize the Essex-Junior, under 
 the command of Lieut. Downes, on the look out of 
 the harbor ; but contrary to the course I thought he 
 would pursue, Com. Hillyar brought with him the 
 Cherub sloop of war, mounting twenty-eight guns, 
 eighteen 32 pound carronades, eight 24s, and two long 
 9s on the quarter deck and forecastle, and a complement 
 of ISO men. The force of the Pluube is as follows : — 
 Thirty long 18 pounders, sixteen 32 pound carronades, 
 one howitzer, and six three pounders in the tops, in all 
 fifty-three guns, and a complement of 320 men ; mak- 
 ing a force of eighty-one guns and 500 men ; in ad- 
 dition to which, they took on board the crew of an 
 English letter of marque lying in port. Both ships 
 had picked crews, and were sent into the pacific in 
 company with the Racoon of 22 guns, and a store 
 ship of twenty guns, for the express purpose of seeking 
 the Essex, and were prepared with Hags, bearing the 
 motto, "God and country ; British sailor's best rights ; 
 traitors offend both." This was intended as a reply 
 to my motto, "free tra<le and sailor's rights," under 
 the erroneous impression that my crew were chiefly En- 
 glishmen, or to counteract its eftect on their own crews. 
 The force of the Essex was 40 guns, forty 32 pound 
 carronades, and six long 12s, and her crew, which had 
 been much reduced by prizes amounted only to 255 
 men. The Essex Junior, which was intended chief- 
 ly as a store ship, mounted 20 guns, ten IS pound 
 carronades, and ten short 7s, with only 60 men on 
 board. In reply to their motto, I wrote at my miz- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 103 
 
 en, " God, our country, and liberty : tyrants offend 
 them." 
 
 On getting their provisions on board, thev went off 
 the port for the purpose of blockading me, where they 
 cruised for near six weeks ; during which time I en- 
 deavored to provoke a clijillenge, and frequently, but 
 ineffectually, to bring the Phmbe alone to action, first 
 with both my ships, and afterwards with my single 
 ship with both crews on board, I was several times 
 under way, and ascertained that I had greatly the ad- 
 vantage in point of sailing, and once succeeded in 
 closing within gun-shot of the Phoebe^ and conmien- 
 ced a fire on her, when she ran down for the Cherub, 
 which was two miles and a half to leeward. This 
 excited some surprize and expressions of indignation, 
 as previous to my getting under way, she hove to off 
 the port, hoisted her motto flag and fired a gun to 
 windward. Com. Hillyar seemed determined to avoid 
 a contest with me on nearly equal terms, and from his 
 extreme prudence in keeping both his ships ever after 
 constantly within hail of each other, there were no 
 hopes of any advantages to my country from a longer 
 stay in port. I therefore determined to put to sea the 
 first opportunity which should offer ; and I was the 
 more strongly induced to do so, as I had received cer- 
 tain intelligence that the Tagus, rated 38, and two 
 other frigates, had sailed for that sea in pursuit of me ; 
 and I had reason to expect the arrival of the Racoon 
 from the N. W. coast of America, where she had 
 been sent for the purpose of destroying our fur estab- 
 lishment on the Columbia. A rendezvous was ap- 
 pointed for the Essex-Junior and every arrangement 
 made for sailing, and I intended to let them chase me 
 off, to give the Essex-Junior an opportunity of esca- 
 ping; On the 28th March, the day after this deter- 
 mination was formed, the wind came on to blow fresh 
 from the southward, when I parted my larboard cable, 
 and dragged my starboard anchor directly out to sea. 
 Not a moment was to be lost in getting sail on the 
 ship. The enemy were close in with the point forming 
 
104 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 the west side of the bay ; but on opening them, ' saw 
 a prospect of passing to windward, when I too in my 
 top-gallant sails, which were set over single-ieefed 
 top-sails, and braced up for this purpose ; but on 
 rounding the point, a heavy squall struck the ship and 
 carried away her main top mast, precipitating the men 
 who were aloft into the sea, who were drowned. Both 
 ships now gave chase to me, and I endeavoured in my 
 disa!)led state to regain the port ; but finding I could 
 not recover the common anchorage, I ran close into a 
 small bay about three quarters of a mile to leeward of 
 the battery on the east side of the harbor, and let go 
 my anchor within pistol shot of the shore, where I in- 
 tended to repair my damages as soon as possible. 
 
 The enemy continued to approach, and shewed an 
 evident intention of attacking, regardless of the neu- 
 trality of the place where I was anchored ; and the 
 caution observed in their approach to the attack of the 
 crippled Essex, was truly rediculous, as was iheir dis- 
 play of their motto flags, and the number of jacks at 
 their mast heads. I, with as much expedition as cir- 
 cumstances would admit of, got my ship ready for ac- 
 tion, and endeavoured to get a spring on my cable, 
 but had not succeeded when the enemy, at 54 minutes 
 after 3, P. M. made his attack, the PJuebe placing 
 herself under my stern, and the Cherub on my star- 
 board bow ; but the Chtriib soon finding her situa- 
 tion a hot one, bore up and ran under my sterji also, 
 where both ships kept up a hot raking fire. I had got 
 three long 12 pounders out of the stern ports, \^hich 
 were worked with so nmch bravery and skill, that in 
 half an hour we so disabled both as to conipel them 
 to haul ofiT to repair damages. In the course of this 
 firing, I had by the great exertions of Mr. Edwnrd 
 Barnewell, the acting sailing master, assisted by 3Ir. 
 Linscott, the boatswain, succeeded in getting springs 
 on our cable three (Hflrrent times ; but tie firi' of the 
 enemy was so exiessive, that bcforf^ we (ould g<'l our 
 broadside to bear, they weri? shoi away, and thus ren- 
 dered useless to us. JNFy ship had received many m- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 105 
 
 juries, and several had been killed and wounded ; but 
 my brave officers and men, notwithstanding the unfa- 
 vorable circumstances under which we were brought 
 to action, and the powerful force opposed to us, were 
 no ways discouraged ; and all appeared determined 
 to defend their ship to the last extremit\, and to die in 
 preference to a shameful surrender. Our gaff, with 
 the ensign, and the motto flag at the mizen, had been 
 shot away, but "free trade and sailors' rights" contin- 
 ued to fly at the fore. Our ensign was replaced by 
 another ; and to guard against a similar event, an en- 
 sign was made fast in the mizen rigging, and several 
 jacks were hoisted in diflferent parts of the ship. The 
 enemy soon repaired his damages for a fresh attack : 
 he now placed himself with both his ships, on my 
 starboard quarter, out of the reach of my carronades, 
 and where my stern guns could not be brought to 
 bear : he there kept up a most galling fire, which it 
 was out of my power to return, when I saw no pros- 
 pect of injuring him without getting under way and 
 becoming the assailant. My top-sail sheets and hal- 
 iards were all shot away, as well as the jib and fore-top 
 mast stay-sail haliards. The only rope not cut away 
 was the flying-jib haliards ; and that being the only 
 sail I could set, I caused it to be hoisted, my cable 
 to be cut, and ran down on both ships, with an inten- 
 tion of laying the Fhctbe on board. The firing on 
 both sides was now tremendous ; I had let fall my 
 fore-top-sail and fore-sail, but the want of tack and 
 sheets rendered them almost useless to us— yet we 
 were enabled, for a short time, to close with the ene- 
 my ; and although our decks were now strewed with 
 dead, and our cock-pit filled with wounded — although 
 our ship had been several times on fire, and was ren- 
 dered a perfect wreck, we were still encouraged to 
 hope to save her, from the circumstance of the Cher- 
 ub, from her crippled state, being compelled to haul 
 off*. She did not return to close action again, although 
 she apparently had it in her power to do so, but kept 
 up a distant firing with her long guns. The Phcebey 
 U 
 
106 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 from our disabled state, was enabled, however, by 
 edging off, to choose the distance which best suited her 
 long guns, and kept up a tremendous fire on us, which 
 mowed down my brave companions by the dozen. 
 Many of my guns had been rendered useless by the 
 enemy's shot, and many of them had their whole crews 
 destroyed. We manned them again from those which 
 were disabled, and one gun in particular was three 
 times manned — fifteen men were slain at it, in the 
 course of the action! But, strange as it may ap- 
 pear, the captain of it escaped with only a slight 
 wound. Finding that the enemy had it in his power 
 to choose his distance, I now gave up all hopes of 
 closing with him, and, as the wind, for the moment, 
 seemed to favor the design, I determined to endeavour 
 to run her on shore, land my men, and destroy her. 
 Every thing seemed to favor my wishes. 
 
 We had aproached the shore within nnusket shot, 
 and I had no doubt of succeeding, when, in an in- 
 stant, the wind shifted from the land (as is very com- 
 mon in this port in the latter part of the day) and pay- 
 ed our head down on the Phoebe, where we were again 
 exposed to a dreadful raking fire. My ship was now 
 totally unmanageable ; yet as her head was toward 
 the enemy, and he to leeward of me, I still hoped to 
 be able to board him. At this moment, Lieut. Com- 
 mandant Downes came on board to receive my orders, 
 under the impression that I should soon be a prisoner. 
 He could be of no use to me in the then wretched 
 state of the Essex — and finding (from the enemy's 
 putting his helm up) that my attempt at boarding 
 would not succeed, 1 directed him, after he had been 
 about ten minutes on board, to return to his own ship, 
 to be prepared for defending and destroying her in 
 case of an attack. He took with him several of my 
 wounded, leaving three of his boat's crew on board to 
 make room for them. Tlie Cherub now had an op- 
 portunity of distinguishing herself, by keeping up a 
 hot fire on him during his return. The slaughter on 
 board my ship iiad now become horrible, the enemy 
 
H 
 c! 
 
 o 
 
 H 
 W 
 
 !/} 
 (/} 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 107 
 
 continuing to rake us and we unable to bring a gun to 
 bear, I therefore directed, a hawser to be bent to 
 the sheet anchor, and the anchor to be cut from the 
 bows to brinij her head round : this succeeded. We 
 again got our broadside to bear, and as the enemy was 
 much crippled and unable to hold his own, I have no 
 doubt he would soon have drifted out of gun shot be- 
 fore he discovered .we had anchored, had not the haw- 
 ser unfortunately parted. My ship had taken tire 
 several times during the action, but alarmingly so 
 foreward and aft at this moment — flames were burs- 
 ting up each hatchway, and no hopes were entertained 
 of saving her. Our distance from the shore did not 
 exceed three quarters of a mile, and I hoped many 
 of fUiy brave crew would be able to save themselves, 
 should the ship blow up, as I was informed the fire 
 was near the magazine, and the explosion of a large 
 quantity of powder below served to increase the 
 horrors of our situation — our boats were destroyed 
 by the enemy's shot ; I therefore directed those who 
 could swim to jump overboard, and endeavour to gain 
 the shore — some reached it — some were taken by the 
 enemy, and some perished in the attempt ; but most 
 preferred sharing with me the fate of the ship. We, 
 who remained, now turned our attention wholly to 
 extinjjuishins; the flames : and when we had succeeded, 
 went again to our guns where the firing was kept up 
 for some minutes, but the crew had by this time be- 
 come so weakened, that they all declared to me the 
 impossibility of making further resistance, and entrea- 
 ted me to surrender my ship to save the wounded, as 
 all further attempt at opposition must prove ineffectu- 
 al, almost every gun being disabled by the destruction 
 of their crews. I now sent for the officers of division 
 to consult them ; %ut what was my surprise to find 
 only acting Lieutenant Stephen Decatur M' Knight 
 remaining, (who confirmed the report respecting the 
 condition of the guns on the gun-deck — those on the 
 spar-deck were not in a better state.) Lieut. Wilmer, 
 after fighting most gallantrv througliout the act ion, had 
 
108 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 been knocked overboard by a splinter while getting 
 the sheet anchor from the bows, and was drowned. 
 Acting Lieutenant John G. Cowell had lost a leg; 
 Edward Barnewell, acting sailing master, had been 
 carried below, after receiving two severe wounds, one 
 in the breast and one in the face ; and acting Lieuten- 
 ant WilHam H. Odenheimer had been knocked over 
 board from the quarter an instant before, and did not 
 regain the ship until after the surrender. I was in- 
 formed that the cockpit, the steerage, the ward room, 
 and the birth deck could contain no more wounded ; 
 that the wounded were killed while the surgeons 
 were dressing them ; and that unless something was 
 speedily done to prevent it, the ship would soon sink 
 from the number of shot holes in her bottom. On 
 sending for the carpenter, he informed me that all his 
 crew had been killed or wounded, and that he had 
 once been over the side to stop the leaks, when his 
 slings had been shot away, and it was with difficulty 
 he was saved from drowning. The enemy, from the 
 smootheness of the water, and the impossibility of our 
 reaching him with our carronades, and the little appre- 
 hension that was excited by our fire, which had now 
 become much slackened, was enabled to take aim at us 
 as at a target : his shot never missed our hull, and my 
 ship was cut up in a manner, which was, perliaps, 
 never before witnessed — in fine, I saw no hopes of sa- 
 ving her, and at 20 minutes after G P. M. gave the 
 painful order to strike the colours. Seventy-five men, 
 including officers, were all that remained of my whole 
 crew, after the action, capable of doing duty, an'l 
 many of them severely wounded, some of whom have 
 since died. The enemy still continued his fire, and 
 my brave, though unfortunate conipanions, were still 
 falling about me. I directed an opposite gun to be 
 fired, to show them we intended no farther resistance ; 
 but they did not desist ; four men were killed at my 
 side and others at different parts of the ship. I now 
 believe he intended to show us no quarter, and that 
 it would be as well to die with my flag flying as 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 109 
 
 struck, and was on the point of again hoisting it, when 
 about 10 minutes after hauhng the colours down he 
 ceased firing. 
 
 I cannot speak in sufficiently high terms of the con- 
 duct of those engaged for such an unparalled length 
 of time (under such circumstances) with me in the ar- 
 duous and unequal contest. Let it suffice to say, that 
 more bravery, skill, patriotism and zeal were never dis- 
 played on any occasion. Every one seemed determin- 
 ed to die in defence of their much loved country's 
 cause, and nothing but views of humanity could ever 
 have reconciled them to the surrender of the ship ; 
 they remembered their wounded and helpless ship- 
 mates below. To acting Lieutenants M'Knight and 
 Odenheimer, I feel much indebted for their great ex- 
 ertions and bravery throughout the action, in fighting 
 and encouraging the men at their divisions, for the 
 dexterous management of the long guns, and for their 
 promptness in remanning their guns as their crews were 
 slaughtered. The conduct of that brave and heroic 
 officer, acting Lieutenant John G. Cowell, who lost 
 his leg in the latter part of the action, excited the ad- 
 miration of every man in the ship, and after being 
 wounded, would not consent to be taken below, un- 
 til loss of blood had rendered him insensible. Mr. 
 Barnewell, acting sailing-master, whose activity and 
 courage were equally conspicuous, returned on deck 
 after receivinjj his first wound, and remained after re- 
 ceiving his second, until fainting with the loss of 
 blood. Mr. Samuel B. Johnston, who had joined me 
 the day before, and acted as marine officer, conduct- 
 ed himself with great bravery, and exerted himself in 
 assisting at the long guns ; the musketry after the first 
 half hour being useless from our long distance. 
 
 Mr. M. W. Bostwick, whom I had appointed acting 
 purser of the Essex-Junior, and who was on board 
 my ship, did the duties of aid in a manner which re- 
 flects on him the highest honor : and Midshipmen 
 Isaacs, Farrugut, and Ogden, as well as acting Mid- 
 shipmen James Terry, James R. Lyman and Samuel 
 
110 xNAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Duzcnhury, and Master's Mate William Pierce, ex- 
 erted themselves in the j3erformance of their respec- 
 tive duties, and gave an earnest of their value to the 
 service ; tlie three first are too young to recommend 
 for promotion ; the latter I heg leave to recommend 
 for confirmation, as well as the acting lieutenants and 
 Messrs. Barnewell, Johnston and Bostwick. 
 
 We have been unfortunate, but not disgraced — the 
 defence of the Essex has not been less honorable to 
 her officers and her crew, than the capture of an equal 
 force ; and I now consider my situation less unpleas- 
 ant, than that of Com. Hillyar, who, in violation of 
 every principal of honor and generosity, and regard- 
 less of the rights of nations, attacked the Essex in 
 her crippled state, within pistol shot of a neutral shore, 
 when for six weeks I had daily offered him fair and 
 honorable combat, on terms greatly to his advantage. 
 The blood of the slain must rest on his head ; and he 
 has yet to reconcile his conduct to heaven, to his con- 
 science, and to the world. The annexed extracts of a 
 letter from Com. Hillyar, which was written previous 
 to his returning me my sword, will shew his opinion of 
 our conduct. 
 
 3Iy loss has been dreadfully severe, 5S killed, or 
 have since died of their wounds, and among tiiem 
 Lieut. Cowell ; 39 were severely wounded, 21 shght- 
 ly, and 31 are missing ; making in all 154 killed, 
 wounded, and missing, a list of whose names is annexed. 
 
 The professional knowledge of Dr. Richard Hoff- 
 man, acting surgeon, and Dr. Alexander Montgome- 
 ry, acting as surgeon's mate, added to their assiduity 
 and the benevolent attentions and assistance of Mr. 
 D. P. Adams, the cha|)lain, saved the lives of many 
 of the wounded ; those gentlemen have been indefa- 
 tigable in their attentions to them ; the two first I 
 beg leave to recommend for confirmation, and the lat- 
 ter to the notice of the department. 
 
 I must in justification of myself observe, that with 
 our six 12 pounders oidy, wc; fouglit this action — our 
 caronades being ahnost useless. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. Ill 
 
 The lost in killed and wounded has been great with 
 the enemy ; among the former is the first lieutenant of 
 the riiebc, and of the latter Capt Tucker of the 
 Cherub, whose wounds are severe. Both the Essex 
 and the Phxhe were in a sinking state, and it was 
 with difficulty they could be kept afloat until they 
 anciiored in Valparaiso next morning. The battered 
 state of the Essex will, I believe, prevent her ever 
 reaching England, and I also think it will be out of 
 their ))ower to repair the damages of the Phxbe, so 
 as to enable her to double Cape Horn. All the masts 
 and yards of the Phoebe and Cherub are badly crip- 
 pled, and their hulls much cut up ; the former had 
 eighteen 12 pound shot through her, below her water 
 line, some three feet under water. Nothing but the 
 smoothness of the water saved both the Phoebe and Es- 
 sex. 
 
 I hope. Sir, that our conduct may prove satisfacto- 
 ry to our country, and that it will testify it by obtain- 
 ing our speedy exchange, that we may again have it 
 in our power to prove our zeal. 
 
 Com. Millyar, I am informed, has thought proper 
 to state to his government that the action lasted only 
 45 minutes ; should he have done so, the motive may be 
 easily discovered — but the thousand of disinterested 
 witnesses who covered the surrounding hills, can tes- 
 tify that we fought his ships near two hours and a half; 
 upwards of fifty broadsides were fired by the enemy 
 agreeably to their own accounts, and upwards of sev- 
 enty-five by ours ; except the few minutes they were 
 repairing damages, the firing was incessant. 
 
 Soon after my capture I entered into an ajircement 
 with Com. Hillyarto disarm my prize, the Esser-Ju- 
 nior, and proceed with the survivors of my o^!icers 
 and crew in her to the United States, taking wi^ls me 
 all her officers and crew. He consented to grair her 
 a passport to secure her from recapture. The ship 
 was stimll, and we knew we had much to sulTor. yet 
 we hoped soon to reach our country in safety, thnt we 
 might again have it in our power to serve it. This 
 
112 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 arrangement was attended with no additional expense, 
 as she was abundantly supphed with provisions and 
 stores for the voyage. 
 
 In justice to Com. Ilillyar, I must observe, that, 
 although I can never be reconciled to the manner of 
 his attack on the Essex, or to his conduct before the 
 action, he has, since our capture, shown the greatest 
 humanity to my wounded, whom he permitted me to 
 land, on condition that the United States should bear 
 their expenses, and has endeavored as much as lay in 
 his power to alleviate the distresses of war by the 
 most generous and delicate deportment towards my- 
 self, my officers and crew ; he gave orders that the 
 property of every person should be respected — his or- 
 ders, however, were not so strictly attended to as 
 might have been expected ; besides being deprived of 
 books, charts, &.c. Sec. both myself and officers lost 
 many articles of our clothing, some to a considerable 
 amount. I should not have considered this last cir- 
 cumstance of sufficient importance to notice, did it 
 not mark a striking ditference between the navy of 
 Great Britian and that of the United States, highly 
 creditable to the latter. 
 
 By the arrival of the Tagus, a few days after my 
 capture, I was informed that besides the ships which 
 had arrived in the Pacific in pursuit of me, and those 
 still expected, others were sent to cruise for me in 
 the China seas, off New Zealand, Timour, and New 
 Holland, and that another frigate was sent to the riv- 
 er La Plata. 
 
 To possess the Essex, it has cost the British gov- 
 ernment near six millions of dollars ; and yet, Sir, her 
 capture was owing entirely to accident ; and if we 
 consider the expedition with which naval contests are 
 now decided, the action is a dishonor to them. Had 
 they brought their ships boldly to action with a force 
 so very superior, and having the choice of |)osition, 
 they should either have captured or destroyed us in 
 one fourth of the time they were about it. 
 
 During the action, our Consul General, Mr. Poin- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 113 
 
 sett, called on the governor of Valparaiso, and reques- 
 ted that the batteries might protect the Essex. The 
 request was refused, but he promised that if she 
 should succeed in fighting her way to the common an- 
 chorage, he would send an officer to the British com- 
 mander and request him to cease lu'ing, but declined 
 using force under any circumstances, and there is no 
 doubt a perfect understanding existed between them. 
 This conduct added to the assistance given to the 
 British, and their friendly reception after the action, 
 and the strong bias of the faction which governs Chili 
 in favor of the Enghsh, as well as their hostility to 
 the Americans, induced Mr. Poinsett to leave that 
 country. Under such circumstances, I did not con- 
 ceive that it would be proper for me to claim the res- 
 toration of my ship, confident that the claim wouM be 
 made by my government to more effect. Finding 
 some difficulty in the sale of my prizes, I had taken 
 the Hector and Catharine to sea, and burnt them with 
 their cargoes. 
 
 I exchanged Lieut. M, Knight, Mr. Lyman, and 
 eleven seaman, for part of the crew of the Sir Andrew 
 Hammond, and sailed from Valparaiso on the 27th 
 April, where the enemy were still patching up their 
 ships to put them in a state for proceeding to llio de 
 Janeiro, previous to going to England. 
 
 Annexed is a list of the remains of my crew to be 
 exchanged, as also a copy of the correspondance be- 
 tween Com. Hillyar and myself on that subject. I 
 also send you a list of the prisoners I have taken dur- 
 ing my cruise, amounting to S^.^. 
 
 I have the honor to be, &.c. 
 Hon. Secr'ij of the navy D. PORTER, 
 of the United States, Washington. 
 
 P. S. To give you a correct idea of the state of 
 the Essex at the time of surrender, I send you the 
 boatswain's and carpenters report of damages ; I also 
 send you a report of the divisions. 
 
 A return of the killed, wounded and missing on board 
 15 
 
114 NAVAL MONUMENT 
 
 of the late United States frigate Essex, of 32 guns, 
 255 men, David Porter, Esq. commander, in an ac- 
 tion fought on the 28th 3Iarch, 1814, Valparaiso Bay, 
 with the British frigate Phcchc, of 36 guns, 320 men, 
 James Hillyar, Esq. commander, and the sloop of 
 war Cheruh, mounting 28 guns, 180 men, comman- 
 ded hy T. Tucker, Esq. 
 
 Killed iii action and have since died of their 
 wounds. — James P V* mer, 1st lieutenant; John G. 
 Cowell, 3d do.; Henry Kennedy, hoatswain's mate; 
 William Smith, do.; Francis Bland, quarter master; 
 Reuben Marshal, quarter gunner ; Thomas Bailey, 
 boatswain's yeoman ; and fifty-three seamen, marines, 
 Slc. 
 
 Severely wounded — Edward Barnewell, sailing- 
 master ; Edward Linscott, boatswain ; William 
 Kingsbury, boatswain ; Essex jun. and twenty two 
 others. 
 
 Slightly wounded — Only twenty-five. 
 
 M I s s 1 N G — Thirty-one. 
 
 RECAPITULATION. 
 
 Killed, 60 
 
 Severely wounded, - - - 37 
 
 Slightly wounded, - - - 25 
 
 Missing, 31 
 
 Total - - - - 153 
 During the action, the Essex-Junior lay in the port 
 of Valparaiso, under the guns of a Spanish fort, una- 
 ble to take any part in the contest. After the action, 
 Capt. Porter and his crew were paroled, and by ar- 
 rangement permitted to come home in the Essex- Jun- 
 ior, and a cartel with his crew. Off the Hook thev 
 were detained 24 hours by the British razee Saturn, 
 in company with the frigate JYarcissus. Capt. Por- 
 ter left the Essex-Junior on the 6lh of July, in one of 
 her yawls, with six men, about thirty miles outside of 
 the Hook, and landed on the 7th at Babylon on Long- 
 Island, where he procured a waggon, took on board 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 115 
 
 his yawl and jolly tars, and reached Brooklyn about 
 five o'clock P. M. 
 
 The Essex had landed all her specie, amounting to 
 two millions, at Valparaiso previous to her being cap- 
 tured. 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COM. HILLYAR TO ME. 
 
 My dear Sir, Phoebe, April 4, 1814. 
 
 Neither in my conversations nor the accompany- 
 ing letter, have I mentioned you sword. Ascribe my 
 remissness in the first instance to forgetfiilness ; I 
 consider it only in my servant's possession with my 
 own, until the master may please to call for it ; and 
 although I omitted, at the moment of presentation, 
 from my mind being much engrossed in attending to 
 professional duties, to offer its restoration, the hand 
 that received will be most gladly extended, to put 
 it in possession of him who wore it so honorably in de- 
 fending his country's cause. 
 
 Beheve me, my dear Sir, 
 
 very faithfully yours, 
 
 JAMES HILLYAR. 
 Capt. Porter. 
 
 After some conversation on the subject the follow- 
 ing correspondence took place. 
 
 Sir, Valparaiso, April 4\, 1814. 
 
 Taking into consideration the immense distance 
 we are from our respective countries, the uncertainty 
 of the future movements of his majesty's ships under my 
 command, which precludes the possibility of my mak- 
 ing a permanent arrangement for transporting the of- 
 ficers and crew, late of the Essex, to Europe ; and 
 the fast approaching season which renders a passage 
 round Cape Horn in some degree dangerous : I have 
 the honor to propose for your approbation the follow- 
 ing articles, which, I hope, the government of the 
 United States, as well as that of Great Britain, will 
 deem satisfactory ; and to request, that should you 
 conceive them so, you will favor me with the neces- 
 sary bond for fulfillment. 
 
116 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 First. The Essex-Junior to be deprived of all 
 her armament and perfectly neutralized ; to be equip- 
 ed for the voyage solely and wholy at the expense of 
 the American government ; and to proceed with a 
 proper American officer and crew (of which I wish to 
 be furnished with a list, for the purpose of giving the 
 necessary passport) to any port of the United States 
 of America that you may deem most proper. 
 
 Second. Yourself, the officers, petty officers, sea- 
 men, marines, &,c. composing your crew, to be ex- 
 changed immediately on their arrival in America, for 
 an equal number of British prisoners of similar rank. 
 Yourself and officers to be considered on their parole of 
 honor until your and their exchange shall be effected. 
 
 In case of the foregoing articles being accepted, 
 the Essex-Junior, will be expected to prepare imme- 
 diately for the voyage, and to proceed on it before 
 the expiration of the present month : shoul \ any of 
 the wounded at that period be found incapable of re- 
 moval, from not being sufficiently advanced in their 
 recovery, the most humane attention shall be paid 
 them ; and they shall be forwarded home by the first 
 favorable conveyance that may offer. 
 
 I have the honor to be, Slc. 
 
 Cap. David Porter, JAMES HILLYAR. 
 Late commander of the U. S. frigate Essex. 
 Sir, Valparaiso, 5 April, 1814. 
 
 I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your 
 several favors of yesterday's date. 
 
 The conditions offered by you for our return to the 
 United States are perfectly satisfactory to me, and I 
 entertain no doubts of their being equally so to my 
 country ; I therefore do not hesitate to pledge my 
 honor (the strongest bond I can give) that every arti- 
 cle of the arrangement shall on our part be fully com- 
 plied with. A list of the Essex-Junior's crew shall 
 be furnished you as soon as it can be made out, and 
 her disarmament affected with all possible dispatch 
 I have the honor to be, &,c. 
 
 Com. James IIillvar, D. PORTER. 
 
 Commanding 11. li. J\I. frigate Phwbe. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 117 
 
 Com. Hillyar sent me a paper, certifying that he 
 had exchanged certain individuals therein named, 
 making part of the crew of the Sir Andrew Ham- 
 mond, for an equal number of the most severely 
 wounded of my crew : this occasioned the following 
 letters. 
 Sir, Valparaiso, 4 April, 1814. 
 
 I have received a paper signed by you, dated yes- 
 terday, stating, that you had exchanged certain woun- 
 ded prisoners, making part of my crew, for the captain 
 and crew of the prize ship Sir Andrew Hammond ; 
 which paper I have taken the liberty to return to you, 
 and protest in the strongest terms against such an ar- 
 rangement. 
 
 In the first place the wounded and helpless individu- 
 als, therein named, do not wish such exchange : one 
 died last night, and several others expect to share his 
 fate. 
 
 Secondly, should I from any circumstances be sep- 
 arated from them, which would be more likely to be 
 the case than if they remained prisoners, their situa- 
 tion would be more deplorable then it is at present. 
 Thirdly, this arrangement has been made without my 
 consent and on terms far from offering equal advanta- 
 ges to the United States. 
 
 I have the honor to be, &c. 
 
 Com. James Hillyar, D. PORTER. 
 
 Commanding H. B. M. Phoebe. 
 
 Sir, H. B. M. Ship, Valparaiso, April 4, 1814. 
 
 I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your 
 letter of this day's date, protesting against the arrange- 
 ment made in the paper you returned, and to express 
 a regret that my wish, which was to alleviate and not 
 increase the afflictions of your wounded officers and 
 crew, has failed of being gratified. I am sorry you 
 have thought proper to mention the dead and dying, 
 as I so fully explained to you this morning, that in 
 the event of the loss of any, other names should be 
 added to the list. I shall now direct Capt. WilHam 
 
IIS NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Porter to consider himself still a prisoner of war on 
 his parole ; but as I have ordered the people to go on 
 board the Essex to work, under the impression that no 
 difficulty would arise, will liberate in exchange for 
 them an equal number of prisoners, as their names, 
 being seamen, shall be found to follow each other on 
 your late ship's book, and give up also two mates or 
 midshipmen for the two mates which are of the En- 
 glish party. I hope this may prove satisfactory to 
 your government and self 
 
 I am yours, &c. 
 Capt. D. Porter. JAMES HILLYAR. 
 
 Sir, Valparaiso, 5 April, IS14. 
 
 The arrangement which you have suggested respect- 
 ing the exchange of the seamen of the Sir Andrew 
 Hammond for an equal number of seamen of the late 
 United States frigate Essex, as they stand on the list 
 furnished you, is perfectly satisfactory. It will be great 
 satisfaction to the three officers, who accompany the 
 Essex, to know, that after your object in taking them 
 with you shall be effected, there will be no dificulty 
 in their proceeding immediately for the United States. 
 I take the liberty therefore to suggest, that they might 
 be exchanged here for Capt. William Porter and his 
 three mates. This will be an accomodation to all 
 parties, and reconcile the otlicers so exchanged to a 
 6eparati<»n from their friends. 
 
 1 have the honor lo be, <Slc. 
 Com. James Hillyar, D.PORTER. 
 
 Commandini^ H. M. frigate Phoebe. 
 
 COPY OF a letter FROM CAPTAIN PORTER TO THE SEC- 
 RETARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 Sir, JVew-York, July 13, 1814. 
 
 There are some facts relating to our enemy, and al- 
 though not comiected with the action, serve to show 
 his perfidy, and should be known. 
 
 On Com. llillyjir's arrivii! at Valparaiso, he ran the 
 Ph'xbii close alongside of the Essex, and inquired po- 
 litely after my hi;alth, observing, that his ship was 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 119 
 
 cleared for action, and his men prepared for boarding, 
 I observed, "Sir, if you by any accident, get on board 
 of ine, I assure you that great confusion will take 
 place ; I am prepared to receive you, but shall only 
 act on the defensive." He observed, cooly and indif- 
 ferently, "Oh, Sir, I have no such intention ;" at this 
 instant his ship took aback on my starboard bow, her 
 yards nearly locking with those of the Essex. I called 
 all hands to board the enemy ; and in an instant my 
 crew were ready to spring on her decks. Com. Ilill- 
 yar exclaimed, with great agitation, " 1 had no inten- 
 tion of getting on bo^rd of you ; — I had no intention 
 of coming so near you ; 1 am sorry I come so near 
 you." His ship fell oii'v/Ith her jib-boom over my 
 decks ; her bows exposed to my broadside, her stern 
 to the fire of the Essex-Junior, her crew in the great- 
 est confusion, and in iificen minutes, I could have ta- 
 ken or destroyed her. Affer he had brought his ship 
 to anchor. Com. lliilyar and Capt. Tucker of the 
 Cherub, visited me on shore ; when I asked him if he 
 intended to respect t!:e neutrality of the port ; " Sir," 
 said he," you have '-aid such respect to the neutrality 
 of this port, that I feel myself bound, in honor, to do 
 the same. 
 
 I have the honor to be, <Slc. 
 
 DAVID PORTER. 
 After the capture of the Essex, Capt. Porter enter- 
 ed into an arrangement with Com. Hillyar, to trans- 
 port the survivors of his crew to the U. States in the 
 Essex-Junior on parole, on condition that she should 
 receive a passport to secure her from recapture and 
 detention. On the 5;h of July, fell in with H. li. M. 
 ship Saturn, Capt. Nash, who examined the papers of 
 the Essex-Junior, treated Capt. Porter with great ci- 
 vility, furnished him with late newspapers, and sent 
 him on board some oranges ; and at the same time made 
 him an offer of services. The boarding officer en- 
 dorsed the passport, and permitted the ship to proceed. 
 She s ood on the same tack with the Saturn ; and 
 about 2 hours aftevvards was again brought to, the pa- 
 
120 NAVAL MOWUMENT. 
 
 pers oxariiinod, and tlie ship' ^ hold overhauled by fho 
 boat's crew and an officer. Ca[A. Porter expressed 
 bis astonishment at such proceedings, and was inform- 
 ed that Capt. Nash had his motives. It was stated 
 that Com. Hillyar had no authority to make such ar- 
 rangement ; that the passport must go on board of tho 
 Saturn again, and the Essex-Junior be detained. 
 Capt. Porter then insisted that the smallest detention 
 would be a violation of the contract on the part of the 
 British, and that he should consider himself as the 
 prisoner of Capt. Nash, and no longer on his parole ; 
 at the same time offering his sword, which was refus- 
 ed, assuring the officer he would deliver it up with the 
 same feelings he had presented it to Com. Hillyar. 
 The officer went on board, returned and informed 
 Capt. Porter, that the Essex-Junior must remain all 
 night under the lee of the 8«?Mr». Then, said Capt. 
 Porter, I am your prisoner ; I do not feel myself 
 bound by any contract with Com. Hillyar, and I shall 
 act accordingly. 
 
 At 7 o'clock next mornmg, the wind being light 
 from the southward, the ships being about 30 or 40 
 miles from the land off the eastern part of Long Is- 
 land, and about musket shot from each other, there 
 appearing no. disposition on the part of the enemy to 
 liberate the Essex-Junior, Capt. Porter determined to 
 attempt his escape. A boat was lowered down, man- 
 ned and armed ; he desired Capt. Downes to inform 
 Capt. Nash, that he was now satisfied that most Brit- 
 ish naval officers were not only destitue of honor, but 
 regardless of the honor of each other ; that he was 
 armed and prepared to defend himself against their 
 boats, if sent in pursuit of him ; and that they must 
 hereafter meet him as an enemy. He now pulled off 
 from the ship, keeping ihc Essex-Junior in a direct line 
 between him and the Saturn, and got near gun-shot 
 from them before he was discovered ; at this instant 
 afresh breeze sj)rung up, and the /Sr//»ni made all snil 
 in pursuit of hiu), but fort r.nntely a thick fog set in and 
 concealed him, when he changed his course, and elu- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 121, 
 
 (led tnem. During ihc fog he heard a firing, and on 
 its clearing up discovered the Saturn in chase of the 
 Essex- Junior, who soon brought her to. After row-, 
 ing and saiUng about GO miles, Capt. Porter succeed- 
 ed, with great difficulty and hazard, in reaching the 
 town of Babylon, (Long Island) whero, being strong- 
 ly suspected to be an Englisli officer, he was closely 
 interrogated, and his story appearing so extraordinary, 
 none gave credit ; but on showing his commission all 
 doubts were removed, and he met from all the inhabi- 
 tants the most friendly and hospitable reception. 
 
 The following is a copy of the arrangement, con- 
 cluded between Capt. Porter, in behalf of himself and 
 crew, with Capt, Hillyar. 
 
 By James Hillyar Esq. captain of H. B. M. Ship 
 Phoebe, and senior officer of his majesty* s ships in 
 Valparaiso Bay. 
 
 I hereby certify, that I have on the part of his Brit- 
 annic Mnjesty, entered into an agreement with Capt. 
 David Porter, of the United States navy, and late 
 commander of the frigate Essex, who, on the part of 
 his government, engages as follows, to wit: That him- 
 self, his officers and crew will proceed to the United 
 States, in the ship called the Essex-Junior, as a car- 
 tel, commanded by Lieut. John Downes, of the Uni- 
 ted States navy, and having a crew, consisting of the 
 officers and men, named in the annexed list. 
 
 The said Capt. Porter, his officers and crew, a list 
 of which is subjoined, will remain as prisoners of war 
 on parole, not to take arms against Great Britain un- 
 til regularly exchanged, and that he pledges his hon- 
 or to fuffil the foregoing conditions. I therefore reqiit^st, 
 that said ship, the Essex-Junior, may be permitted to 
 pass freely to the United States without any impedi- 
 ment, and that the officers commanding the ships of 
 war of his Britannic Majesty, as well as those of pii. 
 vate armed vessels, and all others in authority under 
 the British government, also those in alliance with hi.s 
 said majesty, will sive the said David Porter, his offi- 
 
 16 
 
122 NAVAL aiONIJMEM 
 
 cers and crew, and the crew of the aforesaid ship 
 called the Essex-Junior, every aid and assistance 
 to enable them to arrive at the pb.re of their desti- 
 nation. 
 
 And as it may become necessary for the Essex-Junior 
 to touch at one or more places for the purpose of ob- 
 taining refreshment and supplies, it is requested, that 
 in such case all, to whom this passport may be present- 
 ed, will give the persons on board said ship every fa- 
 cility in supplying their wants, and permit them to de- 
 part with her without hindrance. 
 
 Given under my hand, on board his majesty's ship 
 Phxbe^ at Valparaiso, April, 1814. 
 
 A gentleman, who took part in the engagement, 
 has related the following anecdotes exemplary of that 
 fearless and patriotic spirit which animated the whole 
 crew of the Essex, and which has characterized our 
 hardy sailors in all their combats with the enemy. 
 To the memory of these brave fellows their publicity 
 is due ; and we doubt not many more instances of 
 chivalrous heroism, resulting from a noble love of 
 country, might be obtained and recorded, to the lasting 
 honor of the Am'erican name. 
 
 John Ripley, after losing his leg, said " farewell, 
 boys ; I can be of no use to you ;" and leaped out of 
 the bow port. 
 
 John Alvinson received a cannon ball (18 pounder) 
 through the body; in the agony of death he exclaim- 
 ed, "never mind, shipmates ; I die in defence of 'Free 
 trade and sailors' r-i-g-h-t-s ; '" and expired with the 
 word rights quivering on his lips. 
 
 James Anderson had his left leg shot off, and died 
 animating his shipmates to fight bravely in defence of 
 lil)erty. 
 
 After the engagement, Benjamin Hazen, having 
 dressed himself in a clean shirt and jerkin, addressed 
 his remainiiij; messmates, and tellinijf them he never 
 could sul)mit to be a prisoner to the English, threw 
 himself into the sea. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 123 
 
 LETTER FROM CAPT. HILLYAR TO COM. BROWN, STATIONED 
 
 AT JAMAICA. 
 
 His Majesty's Ship Phosbe, 
 Sir, Valparaiso Bay, 30 March, 1814. 
 
 I have the honor to acquaint you that, at 3 o'clock, 
 in the afternoon of the 28th instant, after nearly four 
 months, anxious watching with his majesty's brig 
 Cherub., for the United States frigate Essex and her 
 companion to quit the port of Valparaiso, we saw the 
 former under way, and immediately the two ships 
 made sail to close with her. 
 
 On rounding the outer point of the bay, and haul- 
 ing her wind, for the purpose of endeavoring to weath- 
 er us and escape, she lost her main top-mast, and af- 
 terwards, not succeeding in an effort to regain the hm- 
 its of the port, she bore up and anchored so near the 
 shore (a few miles to leeward of it) as to preclude the 
 possibility of either of his majesty's ships passing a- 
 head of her without risk. As we drew near, my in- 
 tention of going close under his stern was frustrated, 
 from the ship's broaching off, and from the wind blow- 
 ing extremely fresh. Our first fire commenced a little 
 past 4, and continued about 10 minutes, but produced 
 no visible effect ; our second, a few random shot only, 
 from having increased our distance by wearing, was 
 not apparently more successful ; and having lost the 
 use of our main-sail, jib, and main-stay appearances 
 were a little inauspicious, in standing again towards 
 her. I hailed the Cherub, and signified my intention 
 of anchoring, to Capt. Tucker, for which we were not 
 ready before with springs, directing him to keep un- 
 der sail, and take a convenient station for annoying our 
 opponent. 
 
 On closing the Essex, at 35 minutes past 5, the firing 
 commenced, and before I gained my intended position, 
 her cables were cut, and a serious conflict ensued, the 
 guns of his majesty's ship becoming gradually more 
 destructive; and when it pleased the Almighty to 
 bless the effort of my gallant companions, and my per- 
 
124 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 sonal, very humble ones, with victory. My friend, 
 Capt. Tucker, an officer worthy of their lordship's 
 best attention, was most severely wounded at the com- 
 mencement of the action, but remained on deck till it ter- 
 minated ; he also informs me that his officers and crew, 
 of whose loyalty, zeal, and discipline I entertain the 
 highest opinion, conducted themselves to his satisfac- 
 tion. I have to lament the death of four of my brave 
 companions, and one of his, and my first lieutenant 
 among the number : he fell early. Our list of woun- 
 ded is small. The conduct of my officers, &.c. was 
 such as became good and loyal subjects. 
 
 The defence of the Essex, taking into consideration 
 our great superiority of force, the very discouraging 
 circumstances of having lost her main top-mast, and 
 being twice on fire, did honor to her defender, and 
 must fully prove the courage of Capt. Porter. 
 
 I was much hurt on hearing that her men had been 
 encouraged, when the result of the action was evident- 
 ly decided, some to take to their boats, and others to 
 swim to the shore, many of whom were drowned in the 
 latter attempt : sixteen were saved by the exertions 
 of our people, and others, I believe between thirty and 
 forty, effected their landing. I informed Capt. Porter, 
 that I considered the latter, in point of honor, as my 
 prisoners. He said the encouragement was given 
 when the ship was in danger from fire, and I have not 
 pressed the point. 
 
 The Essex is completely stored and provisioned for 
 six months, and although much injured in her upper 
 works, masts and rigging, is not in such a state as to 
 give the slightest cause of alarm respecting her being 
 able to perform a voyage to Euorpe with perfect 
 safety. 
 
 I have the honor to be, &.c. 
 
 JAMES HILLYAR, Captain. 
 
 SEQUEL OF CAPTAIN POKTEft's EXPEDITION IN THE 
 
 SOUTH SEA. 
 
 On the 19th November, 1813, Capt. Porter took 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 125 
 
 formal possession of the island, called by ihe natives 
 Nooaheevah, generally known by the name of Sir 
 Henry Martin's island, but now called Madison Isl- 
 and. It is situated between lat. 9° and 10" S. and in 
 long. 140° W. from Greenwich. 
 
 The following is a letter ft^om Capt. Gamble to Capt, 
 
 Porte7\ 
 Capt. Gamble, the reader will recollect, was left bj 
 Capt. Porter with a few men, in charge of two or 
 three vessels and some public property, when he sailed 
 from Madison Island for Valparaiso, previous to his 
 ever memorable battle in the Essex. The following 
 letter comprises all the subsequent occurrances : 
 
 Sir, jyeiv-York,JiigustS0,lS\5. 
 
 With regret I have to inform you, the frigate had not 
 got clear of the Marqueses, before we discovered in 
 the natives a hostile disposition towards us, who in a 
 few days became so insolent, that I found it absolute- 
 ly necessary, not only for the security of the ships, an4 
 property on shore, but for our personal safety, to land 
 my men, and regain by force of arms the many things 
 they had, in the most daring manner, stolen from iho 
 encampment ; and what was of still greater impor- 
 tance, to prevent, if possible, their putting threats into 
 execution, which might have been attended with the 
 most serious consequences on our part from d!ity re- 
 quiring my men to be so much seperated, 
 
 I however had the satisfaction to accomplish mj 
 wish without firing a musUet, and from that time lived 
 in the most perfect amity with them, until the 7th May 
 following, when my destressed situation placed 
 me in their power. 
 
 Before mentioning the lamentable events of that 
 day, and the two succeeding ones, I shall give you a 
 brief account of a few preceding occurrences, which 
 were sources of great uneasiness to me. The first 
 was the death of John Wetter, marine, who was un 
 fortunately drowned in the surf, on the afternoon of 
 the 28th February, and the desertion of four of my 
 
12G NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 .men. They took the advantage of a dark night, and 
 left the bay unobserved by any person, all except- 
 ing one, a prisoner, having the watch on deck. 
 They took with them several muskets, a supply of am- 
 munition, and many articles of but little value. My 
 attempt to pursue them was prevented by their destroy- 
 ing partially the only boat ( near the beach ) at that 
 time sea-worthy. 
 
 On the 12th April, began to rig the ships Seringap- 
 ntam and Sir Andrew Hammond, which, as I calcu- 
 lated, employed the men until the 1st of May. All 
 hands were then engaged in getting the remainder of 
 the property from the Greenwich to the Seringapatam^ 
 as I began to despair of your rejoining me at that 
 place. 
 
 The work went on well, and the men were obedient 
 to my orders, though I discovered an evident change 
 in tlieir countenances, which led me to suppos there 
 was something wrong in agitation, and under ll. at im- 
 pression, had all the muskets, ammunition, and small 
 arms of every description, taken to the Greenicich,ihe 
 ship 1 lived on board, from the other ships, as a ne- 
 cessary precaution against a surprize from my own 
 men. 
 
 On the 7th May, while on board the Seringnpatam, 
 on duty, which required my being present, a mutiny 
 took place, in which I was wounded, and the muti- 
 neers succeeded in getting the Seringapatam out of 
 the bay. Two days after, when making the necessary 
 preparations to depart for Valparaiso, we were attack- 
 ed by the savages, and I have, with the deepest re- 
 gret, to inform you, sir, that Midshipman, William 
 Felters, John Thomas, Thomas Gibbs,an(l William 
 Brudinell, were massacred, and Peter Coddington, 
 marine dangerously Wounded. After bending the jib 
 and spanker we cut our moorings, and fortunately had 
 a light breeze, that carried the ship clear of the bay, 
 witli six cartridges remaining out of the only barrel 
 left us bv the mutineers. 
 
 After getting out of the bay, we found our situation 
 
nwal monument. ^ 127 
 
 most distressing. In attempting to run the boat up, 
 It broke in two parts, and we were compelled to cut 
 away from the bows the only anchor, not being able to 
 cat it. We mustered altogether eight souls, out of 
 vvliich there was one cripple, one dangerously woun- 
 ded, one sick, one just recovering from the scurvy, and 
 myself confined to the bed with a high fever, produc- 
 ed by my wound. 
 
 In that state, destitute of charts, and almost of eve- 
 ry means of navigating the ship, I reached the Sand- 
 wich Islands, after a passage of seventeen days, and 
 suffering much from fatigue and hardships. I was 
 there unfortunately captured by the English ship Cher- 
 ub, remained a prisoner on board of her seven months, 
 during which time my men were treated in a most 
 shameful manner. We were then put on shore at Rio 
 de Janeiro, without the possibility of getting away un- 
 til after hearing of the peace. I then, by the advice 
 of the physician who attended me, embarked on board 
 a Swedish ship bound to Havre de Grace, (there be- 
 ing no other means of my getting away at that time,) 
 leaving behind Midshipman Clapp and five men, having 
 lost one soon after my arrival in that place with the 
 small pox. 
 
 On the 1st inst. lat. 47° N. long. 18° W. we fell in 
 with the American ship Olivrr Ellsworth, from Havre, 
 bound to this port. I took a passage on board of her, 
 and arrived here two days since, after being upwards 
 of an hundred days at sea. I am at present unable to 
 travel, and shall therefore await either your orders, or 
 the orders of the commandant of the marine corps at 
 this place. 
 
 I have the honor to remain, 
 
 with the highest respect and esteem, 
 sir, your obed't serv't, 
 
 JOHN M. GAMBLE 
 
128 ^ NAVAL MONUMEWT. 
 
 PEACOCK AND EPERVIER. 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LKTTElt FROM CAPT. CHARLES MORRIS, 
 C;OMMAM)L\G THE U. S. SHIP AUAMS AT SAVAl\NAH,TO 
 THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 Sir, Savannah, May 2, 1814. 
 
 I have the honor to inform you, that a fine brig of 
 18 guns, prize to the United States sloop Peacock, 
 anchored iiere this morning. She is much shattered in 
 her hull, and damaged in her rigging, having fought 
 45 minutes — her loss 8 killed and 15 wounded. The 
 Peacock, 2 slightly wounded. She was chased on the 
 30th April, by a frigate, but escaped by running close 
 in the shore in the night. Lieut. Nicholson, prize 
 master, will forward you a more detailed account of 
 this handsome affair. I am iSlc. 
 
 Hon. W. Jones &c. C. MORRIS. 
 
 LETTER FROM LIEUT. NICHOLSON TO THE SECRETARY OF 
 
 THE NAVY. 
 
 Sir, Savannah, May 1, 1814. 
 
 I have the honor to inform you of my arrival here in 
 late his Britannic majesty's brig Epervier, of eighteen 
 32 pound carronades, Capt. Wales, captured by the 
 sloop Peacock, on Friday morning, the 29th, off Cape 
 Carnaveral, after an action of 45 minutes, in which 
 time slie was much cut up in hull, spars, rigging and 
 sails, with upwards of five feet of water in her hold, 
 having the weathergage. 
 
 She has lost 8 killed and 15 wounded ; among the 
 latter her first lieutenant, who has lost his arm. 1 am 
 happy to s:iy, the Peacock received no material inju- 
 ry — her fore-yard and two men slightly wounded — she 
 received not one shot in her hull. The brig had up 
 wards of one hundred thousand dollars on board. 
 J have the honor to i)e &.c. 
 
 JOHN 13. NICHOLSON. 
 Hon. Willi M Jones, 
 Scc'y of the navy. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. l£0 
 
 COPIES OF LETTERS FROM CAPT. WARRINGTON TO THE 
 SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 U. S. Sloop Peacock, at sea, lat 27° 4<l',lo7ig, SO" 9', 
 
 29 April, 1814. 
 
 I have the honor to inform you that we have this 
 morning captured, after an action of 45 minutes, his 
 majesty's brig Epervier, rating and mounting 18 thir- 
 ty-two pound carronades, with 128 men, of whom 8 
 were killed and 15 wounded (according to the best in- 
 formation we could obtain :) among the latter is her 1-st 
 lieutenant, who has lost an arm, and received a se- 
 vere splinter wound on the hip. Not a man in the 
 Peacock was killed, and only two wounded ; neither 
 dangerously so. The fate of the Epervier would have 
 been determined in much less time, but for the circum- 
 stance of our foreynrd being totally disabled by two 
 round shot in the starboard quarter from her first 
 broadside, which entirely deprived us of the use of 
 our fore and fore-top sail, and compelled us to keep 
 the ship large throughout the remainder of the action. 
 This, with a few top-mast and top-gallant back-stays 
 cut away, a few shot through our sails, is the only in- 
 jury the Peacock has sustained. Not a round shot 
 touched her hull ; our masts and spars are as sound 
 as ever. When the enemy struck, he had five feet 
 water in his hold, his main top-mast was over the side, 
 his main-boom shot away, fore-mast cut nearly in two 
 and tottering, his fore rigging and stays shot away, 
 his bowsprit badly wounded, and 45 shot holes in his 
 hull, 20 of which v/ere within a foot of his water line. 
 By great exertion we got her in sailing order just as 
 dark came on. 
 
 In fifteen minutes after the enemy struck, the Pea- 
 cock 'vas ready for another action, in every respect but 
 her fore-yard, which was sent down, fished, and had 
 the fore-sail set again in 45 minutes — such were the 
 sp*-it and activity of our gallant crew. The Epervier 
 had under convoy an English hermaplFodite brig, a 
 Russian en.d a Spanish ship, all which hauicd ilicir 
 17 
 
30 NAVAL MONUME>T. 
 
 -vuid and stood to the E. N. E. I had determined 
 x^pon pursuing the former, but found that it would not 
 answer to leave our prize, in her tlien crippled state 
 and the more particularly so, as we found she had in 
 $ 120,000 in specie, which we soon transferred to this 
 sloop. Every officer, seaman, and marine did his du- 
 ty, which is the highest compliment I can pay them. 
 
 I am respectfully, 
 
 L. AVARRINGTON. 
 
 P. S. From Lieut. Nicholson's report, who was 
 counting up the Epervier's crew, there were 11 killed 
 and 15 vvounded. L. W. 
 
 Sir, Savannah, May 4>, IS\4>. 
 
 I have great satisfaction in being able to report to 
 you the arrival of the Peacock at this anchorage to- 
 day, and also the arrival cf the Epervier on Monday 
 last. I have now to detail to you the reason of our 
 separation. We made sail as mentioned in my last, 
 on the evening of the 29th of Aprih The next after- 
 noon we were, at ^ past 5, abreast the centre of Amelia 
 Island, with the vessels in sight over the land, when 
 two large ships, which had been seen sometime pre- 
 vious a little to the northward of the Island, were 
 clearly ascertained to be frigates in chase of us. In 
 this situation, at the suggestion of Lieut. Nicholson, 
 I took out all but himself and sixteen officers and 
 men, and stood to the southward along shore, on a 
 wind, leaving him to make the best of his way for St. 
 Mary's ; which place I fc^lt confident he would reach, 
 as tiie w*^n{her frigate was in chase of the Peacock, 
 and the other was too far to the leeward to fetch him : 
 at 9 we lost sight of the chaser, but continued stand- 
 ing all night to the southward, in hopes to get entirely 
 clear of him. At day light we shortened sail and 
 stood to the northward, and again made the frigate, 
 who gave cliase the seuond time, which he continued 
 until 2 P. M. when finding he could not come up, he 
 desisted. In the evening we resumed our course, and 
 saw nothing until day light ^on Tuesday morning, when 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 131 
 
 a large ship, supposed to be the same, was again seen 
 in chase of us, and again run out of sight. 
 
 This morning, at -i past 3, we made Tybee hght, 
 and at half past 8 anchored near the United States 
 ship Adams. As the enemy is hovering near to St. 
 Mary's, I concluded he had received information of, 
 and was waiting to intercept us. Accordingly we 
 steered for this place, where we received intelligence 
 of the Epervier's arrival, after frightening off a launch 
 which was sent from the enemy's ship to leeward on 
 Saturday evening to cut him off from the land. 
 
 From the 18th of April to the 24th we saw but one 
 neutral, and two privateers, both which were chased 
 without overhauling although we ran one among the 
 shoals of Cape Carnaveral, and followed him into four 
 fathoms water. We have been to the southward as 
 far as the Great Isaacs, and have cruised from them to 
 Maranilla reef, and along the Florida shore to Cape 
 Carnaveral. Not a single running vessel has been 
 through the gulf in all this time. The fleet sailed 
 from Jamaica under convoy of a 74, two frigates, and 
 two sloops, from the 1st to the 10th of May. They 
 are so much afraid of our cruisers, that several ships 
 in the Havanna ready for sea, which intended to run 
 it (as it is called) were forced to wait the arrival of 
 the convoy from Jamaica. 
 
 The Epervier and her convoy were the first En- 
 glish vessels we had seen. 
 
 We shall proceed in the execution of your further 
 instructions, as soon as we can get a fore yard, pro- 
 visions, and water. 
 
 The Epervier is one of their finest brigs, and is 
 well calculated for our service. She sails extremely 
 fast, and will require but little to send her to sea, as 
 her armament and stores are complete. 
 
 I enclose you a list of the brig's crew, as accurate- 
 ly as we can get it. 
 
 I am respectfully, 
 
 L. WARRINGTON 
 
l32 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 U. S. Sloop Peacock, Savannah, 
 Sir, 5 May, 1814. 
 
 As my letter of yesterday was too late for the mail, 
 I address you again in the performance of a duly 
 vvhicli is j)ieasing and gratifying to me in a high de- 
 gree, and is but doing justice to the merits of the de- 
 serving officers under my command, of whom I have 
 hitherto refrained from speaking, as I considered it 
 most correct to make it the subject of a particular 
 communication. 
 
 To the unwearied and indefatigable attention of 
 Lieut. Nicholson (1st) in organizing and training the 
 crew, the success of this action is in a great measure 
 to be attributed. I have confided greatly in him, and 
 have never found my confidence misplaced. For ju-ig- 
 ment, coolness, and decision in times of difficulty, few 
 can surpass him. This is the second action in which 
 he has been engaged in this war, and in both he has 
 been successful. His greatest pride is to earn a com- 
 mander's commission by fighting for, instead of Iieir- 
 
 tng it 
 
 From Lieut. Ilenly (2d,) and Lieut. Voorhees, (ac- 
 ting 3d, who has also been twice successfully engaged,) 
 I received every assistance that zeal, ardor, and ex- 
 perience could afford. The fire from their two divisions 
 was terrible, and directed with the greatest precision 
 and coolness. 
 
 In Sailing Master Percival, whose great wish and 
 pride it is to obtain a lieutenant's commission, and 
 whose unremitting and cojistant attention to duty, add- 
 ed to his professional knowledge, entitles him to it 
 in my opinion, I found an able, as well as willing as- 
 sistant. He handled the ship, as if he had been work- 
 ing her into a roadstead. Mr. David Cole, ar'ing Car- 
 penter, I have also found such an able a i vahiablc 
 man in his occupation, that I must request in the most 
 earnest manner, that he may receive a warrant ; for I 
 feel confident, that to his unconnnon exertion, we in a 
 great measure owe the getting our prize into j»ort. 
 From II A. M. until P.M. he was over her side, 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 133 
 
 Stopping shot holes, on a grating, and, when the ordi- 
 nary resources failed of success, his skill soon suppli- 
 ed him with efficient ones. Mr. Philip Myers, mas- 
 ter's mate, has also conducted himself in such a man- 
 ner as to warrant my recommendation of him as a 
 master. He is a seaman, navigator, and officer ; his 
 family in New- York is respected, and he would prove 
 an acquisition to the service. My clerk, Mr. John S. 
 Townsend is anxious to obtain through my means a 
 midshipman's warrant, and has taken pains to qualify 
 himself for it by volunteering, and constantly perform- 
 mg a midshipman's duty — indeed, I have but httle use 
 for a clerk, and he is as great a proficient as any of the 
 young midshipmen, the whole of whom behaved in a 
 manner that was pleasing to me, and must be gratify- 
 ing to you, as it gives an earnest of what they will 
 make in time — 3 only have been to sea before, arid 1 
 only in a man of war, yet they were as much at home, 
 and as much disposed to exert themselves as any offi- 
 cer in the ship. Lieut. Nicholson speaks in high terms 
 of the conduct of Messrs Greeves and Rodgers, mid 
 shipmen, who were in the prize with him. 
 I have the honor to be, 
 
 sir, very respectfully, your obe't serv't, 
 
 L. WARRINGTON. 
 Hon. William Jones, &c. 
 
 UNOFFICIAL PARTICULARS. 
 
 The Epervier, being to windward, gallantly met the 
 Peacock ; but the battle would have ended very soon, 
 had not Capt. Warrington hailed, to ascertain whether 
 she had struck, (her colors being shot away,) by the 
 time spent in which he lost a commanding position ; 
 for the action appeared to have ceased for the moment, 
 and the brave Warrington would not shed blood wan- 
 tonly. The force of the vessels in guns and weight 
 of metal is the same, each rating 18, and carrying 22 ; 
 but in men we had some superiority, the British hav- 
 ing only 128, and we about 160 ; but the disparity of 
 the execution done excites anew our wonder. The 
 
134 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 hull of the Peacock was not struck by a round shol, 
 whereas on the larboard side of the Epcrvier between 
 50 and 60 took effect, many of them within a toot oi 
 the water line, and she was otherwise dreadfully maul- 
 ed, and had one of her guns dismounted, with 5 teet 
 water in her hold. She is one of the finest vessels of 
 her class in the British navy, built in 1812. It is said 
 that "when she left London, bets were three to one, 
 that she would take an American sloop of war or 
 
 small frigate." i.i r u 
 
 The Peacorrs length is 118 ft.— breadth of beam 
 32 ft —depth of hold 14 ft.— tonnage 509— she mounts 
 20 cTuns— had 160 men— killed none, wounded 2, shots 
 in her hull, none. The Epcrvier' s length 107 ft.— 
 breadth of beam 32 ft.-depthof hold 14 ft.-tonnage 
 477 She mounted 18 guns, same calibre with those 
 of the Peacock-h^d 128 men— killed 11, wounded 
 
 15, shots in her hull 45 ! , , i j 
 
 The Epervier was sold at Savannah and purchased 
 by government for fifty Jive thousand dollars. 
 
 WASP AND REINDEER. 
 
 LETTER FROM JOHNSTON BLAKELEY TO THE SECRETARY 
 
 OF THE NAVY. 
 
 Sir, U. S. Sloop Wasp, U Orient H My, 18U. 
 
 On Tuesday, the 28th ult. being then m lat. 4b Jb 
 N. and long. IP 15' W. we fell in with engaged, 
 and after an action of 19 minutes, captured, !"« Brit- 
 annic Majesty's sloop of war the Reindeer ^\ ilham 
 Manners Esq. commander. Annexed are the minutes 
 of our proceedings prior to, and during the continu- 
 ance of the action. 
 
 Where all did their duty, and each appeared anxious 
 to excel, it is very difhcult to discriminate. It is, 
 however, only rendering them their nierited due, when 
 it is declared of Lieuts. Rcilly and Bury, 1st and 3d 
 of this vessel, and whose names will be among those 
 of tiie conquerors of the Guerriere and Java ; and of 
 Mr Tilhnghast, 2d heutenant, who was greatly in- 
 
> 
 O 
 
• NAVAL MONUMENT. 135 
 
 strumental in the capture of the Boxer, that their con- 
 duct and courage on this occasion fulfilled the highest 
 expectation and gratified every wish. Sailing Master 
 Carr is also entitled to great credit for the zeal and 
 ability with which he discharged his various duties. 
 
 The cool and patient conduct of every officer and 
 man, while exposed to the fire of the shifting guns of 
 the enemy, and without an opportunity of returning it, 
 could only be equalled by the animation and ardor 
 exhibited, when actually engaged, or by the prompti- 
 tude and firmness with which every attempt of the en- 
 emy to board was met and successfully repelled. 
 Such conduct may be seen but cannot well be de- 
 scribed. 
 
 The Reindeer mounted sixteen 2i\h. carronades, 
 two long 6 or 9 pounders, and a shifting 12 pound car- 
 ronade, with a complement on board of 118 men. 
 Her crew were said to be the pride of Plymouth. 
 
 Our loss in men has been severe, owing in part to 
 the proximity of the two vessels and the extreme 
 smoothness of sea, but chiefly in repelling board 
 ers. That of the enemy, however, was infinitely 
 more so, as will be seen by the list of killed and woun- 
 ded on both sides. 
 
 Six round shot struck our hull, and many grape 
 which did not penetrate far. The fore-mast received 
 a 241b. shot which passed through its centre, and our 
 rigging and sails were a good deal injured. 
 
 The Reindeer was literally cut to pieces in a line 
 with her ports ; her upper works, boats, and spare 
 spars were one complete wreck. A breeze springing 
 up next afternoon, her fore-mast went by the board. 
 
 Having received all the prisoners on board, which 
 from the number of wounded occupied much time, to- 
 gether with their baggage,the Reindeer was on the eve- 
 ning of the 29th set on fire, and in a few hours blew up. 
 
 I have the honor to be, 
 
 very respectfully, your most obe't serv't, 
 
 J. BLAKELEY 
 
 Hon. William Jones, &c. 
 
136 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Mimites of the action between the U. S. Sloop JVaspy 
 and H. B. M. Sloop Reindeer on the 28th of June 
 1814, in Int. 48" .%' X. and lon^-. \V 15' JV. 
 At 4 A. M. light breezes and cloudy ; at i after 4, 
 discovered two sails, two points before* the lee-beam, 
 kept away in chase ; shortly after discovered one sail 
 on the weather beam ; altered the course and iiauled 
 by in chase of the sail to windward ; at 8, sailed to 
 windward, bore E, N. E. wind very light ; at 10, the 
 stranger sail, bearing E. by N. hoisted an English 
 ensign and pendant, and displayed a signal at the 
 main (blue and yellow diagonally,) Meridian, light 
 airs and cloudy ; at ), past 12, the enemy showed a 
 blue and white flag diagonally at the fore, and fired a 
 gun; 15 minutes after 1, called all hands to quarters 
 and prepared for action ; 22 minutes after 1, believ- 
 ing we could weather the enemy, tacked ship and 
 stood for him ; 50 minutes after 1, hoisted our colors 
 and fired a gun to windward, which was answered by 
 the enemy with another to windward ; 20 minutes af- 
 ter 2, the enemy still standing from us, set the royals ; 
 25 minutes after 2, set the flying gib ; 29 minutes af- 
 ter 2, set the upper stay-sails ; 32 minutes after 2, the 
 enemy having tacked for us, took in the stay-sails ; 37 
 minutes after 2, furled the royals : 51 minutes after 2, 
 seeing that the enemy would be able to weather us, 
 tacked ship ; 3 minutes after 3, the enemy hoisted his 
 flying gib ; brailed upour mizen; 15 minutes after 3, 
 the enemy on our weather quarter, distant about sixty 
 yards, fired his shifting gun, a 121b. carronade, at us, 
 loaded with round and grape shot, from his top-gal- 
 lant fore-castle ; 17 minutes after 3, fired the same 
 gun a second time ; 19 minutes after 3, fired it a third 
 time; 21 minutes after 3, fired it a fourth time, 21i 
 minutes after 3, a fifth shot, all from the same gun. 
 Finding the enemy did not get sufficiently on the beam 
 to enable us to bring our guns to bear, put the helm 
 a-lee, and at 2(3 mimites after 3, conmienced the ac- 
 tion with the after carronade on the starboard side, 
 and fired in succession ; 34 minutes after 3, hauled up 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 137 
 
 the main-sail ; 40 minutes after 3, the enemy having 
 his bow in contact with our larhoard quarter, endeav- 
 ored to board us, but was repulsed in every attciuipt ; 
 at 44 minutes after 3, orders were given to board in 
 tm*n, which were promptly executed, when all resis- 
 tance immediately ceased ; and at 45 minutes after 3, 
 the enemy hauled down his flag. 
 
 J. BLAKELY. 
 
 List of killed and wounded on hoard the United 
 States sloop of war Wasp, in the action luith the 
 Reindeer. 
 
 Killed — Five seamen. 
 Wounded — Twenty one. 
 
 RECAPITULATION. 
 
 ■ Killed ... 5 
 
 Wounded - - - 21 
 
 List of the killed and wounded on board his B. M. 
 sloop of ivar Reindeer. 
 
 Killed — William Manners, Es(|. commander; 
 John Thos. Barton, and 23 petty officers and sea- 
 men. 
 
 Wounded — Thos. Chambets, 1st lieutenant: Rich- 
 ard Jones, master, and 40 petty oflicers and seamen. 
 
 recapitulation. 
 
 
 
 Killed 
 
 - 
 
 35 
 
 Wounded — dangerously 
 
 - 
 
 10 
 
 Severely 
 
 - 
 
 17 
 
 Slightly 
 
 - 
 
 15 
 
 Whole number wounded 42 
 
 N. B. More than half the wounded were, in conse- 
 quence of the severity and extent of their woujkIs, put 
 on board a Portuguese brig, called the Lisbon Packet, 
 on the third day after action, to wit, 1st July, bound 
 to Plymouth, England. 
 18 
 
138 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 COPY OF A LETTER FROM CAPTAIN J. BLAKELEY TO TITS 
 SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 Sir, U. S. Sloop Wasp, L' Orient, S July, 1814. 
 
 I have the honor to announce to you the arrival of this 
 ship to day at this place. — By the pilot who carried us 
 out of Portsmouth N. H. I had the satisfaction to make 
 you acquainted with our having left that place, and 
 again had the pleasure of addressing you by the French 
 national brig 0/ii;e,and which was the first vessel we had 
 spoken since our departure from the United States. 
 From the time of our sailing I continued the rout 
 pointed out in your instructions, until our arrival at 
 this place, during which we have been so fortunate as 
 to make several captures ; a list of which will accom- 
 pany this. — These with their cargoes were wholly des- 
 troyed, with one exception. This was the Gallioft 
 Henrietta, which was permitted to return with prison- 
 ers, 38 in number, after throwing overboard the greater 
 part of her cargo, leaving only su'iicient to ballast her. 
 When arrived on our crusing ground, I found it im- 
 possible to maintain any thing like a station, and was 
 led, in chase, farther up the English ciiannel then was 
 intended. After arriving on soundings, the number 
 of neutrals, which are now passing, kept us aliiiost 
 constantly in pursuit. It gives me much pleasure to 
 state to you the very healthy condition of the crew of 
 the Wasp during the cruise : sometimes without one 
 on the sick list, and at no time any who remained 
 there more than a few days. Great praise is due to 
 Dr. Clark for his skill and attention at all times ; but 
 particularly after the action with the Reindeer, his 
 unweared assiduity to the necessities of the wounded 
 was highly conspicious. 
 
 The ship is at present under quarantine, but we ex- 
 pect to be released from it tomorrow, when the woun- 
 ded will be sent to the hospital, and every exertion 
 made to prepare the Wasp for sea. 
 
 I have the honor to be, very respectfully, 
 
 your most obedient servant, 
 lion. Wm. Jones, J. BLAKELEV. 
 
 Secretary of the navy. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 139 
 
 LETTER FR'OM CAPTAIN BLAKELEY TO THE SECRETARY OF 
 
 THE NAVY 
 
 Sir U. S. Sloop Wasp, U Orient, 10 Juhj, 1814. 
 
 After the capture of his B. M. sloop of war, the 
 Reindeer;it was my wish to have continued the cruise, 
 as directed by you. I was however necessitated 
 to reUnquish this desire after a few days, from a 
 consideration of the wounded of our crew, whose 
 wounds had at this season become offensive, and ag- 
 gravated by the number of prisoners on board at the 
 time, being seventy-seven in number. Fearing, from 
 the crowded state of the Wasp, that some valuable 
 lives might be lost, if retained on board, was compel- 
 led though with reluctance, to make the first neutral 
 port Those belonging to the Reindeer, who were 
 dangerously wounded, were put on board a Portuguese 
 brig bound to England three days after the action, 
 and from the winds which prevailed, arrived prob- 
 ably in two or three days after their departure. 
 Their surgeon, the captain's clerk, and officers 
 servants, and the crew of the Orange Boven were 
 put on board of the same vessel to attend upon 
 them. Since our arrival at this place we have expe- 
 rienced every civility from the public authorities. Our 
 quarantine was only for a few hours, and our wounded, 
 fourteen in number, were carried yesterday to the hos- 
 pital, where they were comfortably situated. Our 
 fore-mast, although badly wounded, can be repaired 
 and will be taken on shore as soon as possible. All 
 other damages sustained can be repaired by ourselves. 
 
 I have the honor to be, very respectfully, 
 
 your most obedient servant, 
 
 Hon. W. Jones, &c. J BLAKELY. 
 
 LETTER FROM J. BLAKELEY ESQ. TO THE SECRETARY OF 
 
 THE NAVY. 
 
 U.J. Sloop of war Wasp, at sea. off BelUJl^^^^^^ 
 
 Tt is with sincere sorrow that I have to announce to 
 you the decease of Midshipmen Henry S. Langdon 
 
140 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 and Frank Toscan. They were wounded in the ren 
 contre wjtli tlie Reindeer, and all our eflbrts lo save 
 them, after our arrival, proved unavailing. It was 
 their first essay, and although wounded, remained at 
 their posts until the contest terminated. The constan 
 cy and courage with which they bore their sufferings 
 leads to the melancholy, though proud reflection, of 
 what they might have been, had providence ordained 
 otherwise. Every respect due to worth was shown to 
 their memory. 
 
 It is with regret that I have to inform you of the 
 delays we have experienced at this place, but had 
 they been of shorter duration, we could not possibly 
 have sailed, as one continued westerly wind has pre- 
 vailed from the hour of our arrival up to the present 
 day. 
 
 The course pointed out in your instructions having 
 been interrupted, I shall endeavor to fulfil your further 
 intentions as far as possibly be in my power. 
 
 . With great satisfaction, I add, that every aid in 
 the power of Mr. Crawford has been promptly affor- 
 ded, and that I feel under many obligations to him for 
 his attention and assistance. 
 
 We are now off this place with a fair wind and fa- 
 vorable prospects. 
 
 I have the honor to be, very respectfully, 
 
 your most obedient servant, 
 Hon. W. Jones, &c. J. BLAKELY. 
 
 WASP AND AVON. 
 
 LETTER FROM CAPT. BLAKELEY TO THE SECRETARY OF 
 
 THE NAVY. 
 
 U. S. Sloop Wasp, at sea, lat. 41 " JV. long. WW 
 Sir, ll//t Sept. 1814. 
 
 After a protracted and tedious stay at L'Orient, 
 had at last the pleasure of leaving that place on Sat- 
 urday, 27th of August. On the 30th, captured the 
 British brig Lettice, Henry Cockbain master ; and on 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 141 
 
 the 31st of August, the British brig Bon Jlccord, 
 Adam Durno master. In the morning of the 1st of 
 September, discovered a convoy of 10 sail to leward, 
 in charge of the Armada 74, and a bomb ship ; stood 
 for them and succeeded in cutting out the British brig 
 Mary^ John D. Allen master, laden with brass can- 
 non, taken from the Spaniards, iron cannon and mili- 
 tary stores from Gibraltar to England : removed the 
 prisoners, set her on fire, and endeavored to capture 
 another of the convoy, but was chased off by the Jlr- 
 mada. On the evening of the same day at h past 6, 
 while going free, discovered four vessels, nearly at 
 the same time, two on the starboard, and two on the 
 larboard bow, being the farthest to windward. At 7, the 
 chase, a brig, commenced making signals, with flags, 
 which could not be distinguished, for want of light, and 
 soon after made various ones, with lanterns, rockets, 
 and guns. At 29 minutes after 9, having the chase 
 under our leebow, the 131b. caronade was directed to 
 be fired into him, which he returned ; ran under his 
 lee-bow to prevent his escaping, and commenced the 
 action. At 10 o'clock, believing the enemy to be si- 
 lenced, orders were given to cease firing, when I hail- 
 ed and asked if he had surrendered. No answer 
 being given to this and his firing having recommen- 
 ced, it was agained returned. At 12 minutes after 
 10, the enemy having suffered greatly, and having 
 made no return to our last two broadsides, I hail- 
 ed him the second time to know if he had suren- 
 dered, when he answered in the affirmative. The 
 guns were then ordered to be secured, and the boat 
 lowered to take posession. In the act of lowering 
 the boat, a second brig was discovered a little distance 
 astern and standing for us. Sent the crew to their 
 quarters, prepared every thing for another action, and 
 awaited his coming up. At 36 minutes after 10, dis- 
 covered two more sails astern, standing towards us. I 
 now felt myself compelled to forgo the satisfaction of 
 destroying the prize. Our braces having been cut 
 away, we kept off* the wind until others could be rove, 
 
14.2 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 and with the expectation of drawing the socon:! hr\rr 
 from h.s companions; but in this hist we were dis.ippoin- 
 teil. The second brigcontinued to approach us until she 
 came ch)se to our stern, when she haulted by the 
 wind, fired her broadside, which cut our rigging and 
 sails considerably, and shot away a lower main cross 
 tree, and retraced her steps to join her consorts ; 
 when we were necessitated to abandon the prize. He 
 apj)eared in every respect a total wreck. He contin- 
 ued tor some time firing guns of distress, until proba- 
 bly delivered by the two last vessels who made their 
 appearance. 
 
 The second brig could have engaged us if he 
 thought proper, as he neared us fast : but contented 
 himself with firing a broadside, and immediately re- 
 turned to his companions. 
 
 It is with real satisfaction I have again the pleasure 
 of bearing testimony to the merits of Lieut. Reilly, 
 Tillinghast, Baury and Sailing Master Carr : and to 
 the good conduct of every officer and man on board 
 the Wasp. Their divisions and departments were 
 attended and supplied with the utmost regularity and 
 abundance, which, with the good order maintained, 
 together with the vivacity and precision of their fire, 
 reflects on them the greatest credit. Our loss is two 
 killed, and one slighily wounded with a wad. The 
 hull received four round shot, and the fore-mast many 
 grape shot. Our rigging and sails suffered a great 
 deal. Every damage has been repaired the day after, 
 with the exception of our sails. 
 
 Of the vessels with whom we were engaged, noth- 
 ing positive can be said with regard to her name or 
 force. While hailing him previous to his being fired 
 into, it was blowing fresh (then going ten knots) and 
 the name was not distinctlv understood. Of her force, 
 the four shot which struck us are all 32 pounds in 
 weight, being a pound and three quarters heavier than 
 any belomrinLj to this vessel. "I'^rom this circumstance, 
 the rnnnher of men in her tops, her general appear- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 143 
 
 ance and great length, she is beheved to be one of the 
 largest brigs in the British navy. 
 
 I have the honor to be, very respectfully, 
 vour most obedient servant, 
 Hon. W. Jones, &.c. J. BLAKELEY. 
 
 P. S. I am told the enemy, after his surrender, 
 asked for assistance, and said he was sinking — the 
 probability of this is confirmed by his firing single 
 guns for some time after his capture. 
 
 List of Killed and wounded on board the U. S. Sloop 
 of 2var the JVasjy Johnston Blakeley, Esq. comman- 
 der,in the action loith his Britannic Majesty, s Sloop 
 of loar ,on the \st of September 1814. 
 
 Killed — Joseph Martin, boatswain; Henry Sta- 
 ples, quarter gunner. 
 
 Wounded — One. seaman. 
 
 RECAPITULATION. 
 
 Killed . - . - 2 
 
 Wounded - - - -' 1 
 
 Total ^ 3 
 
 Extract of a private letter from an officer of the Uni- 
 ted States Sloop Wasp. 
 
 At sea, September 23, 1814. 
 
 '* Capt. Blakely, I believe, sends official accounts 
 up to this date, doubtless for publication. To his let- 
 ters therefore I refer you for correct particulars regar- 
 ding our cruise. 
 
 *' The Wasp has been one of the most successful 
 cruisers out of the United States. She has been the 
 favorite of Fortune, and we offer thanks to divine 
 Providence for its support and protection. 
 
 " She has now been three months and five days at 
 sea, with a complement of 173 men, whose ages aver- 
 age only 23 years. The greatest part so green, that 
 is, unaccustomed to the sea, that they were sick for a 
 week. In that time however she has destroyed twelve 
 
144 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 British merchant vessels and their cargoes, the whole 
 value of which, I presume, was not less than 200,000 
 pounds sterling. The thirteenth merchantman we are 
 now despatching to the United States. She is the 
 first we have attempted to send in but being an uncom 
 mon fast sailer, we have great hopes of her safe arrival ; 
 and for my part, with judicious management, I have 
 no doubt of it. She is a very beautiful brig of 253 
 tons, coppered to the bends and copper fastened, and 
 has a very valuable cargo on board, consisting of 
 brandy, wines, cambrics, &.c. She was from Liver- 
 pool bound to Bordeaux, thence to Pensacola. 
 
 " The Wasp is a beautiful ship, and the finest sea 
 boat, I believe in the world ; our othcers and crew, 
 young and ambitious — they fight with more cheerful- 
 ness than they do any other duty. Capt. Blakeley is 
 a brave and discreet officer; as cool and collected in 
 action as at table." 
 
 BRITISH ACCOUNT. 
 
 Cork, September 7, 1814. 
 On Thursday last, his Majesty's ships Castillian, 
 Lieut. Lloyd, (acting) and Avon Hon. Capt. Arbuthnot, 
 having sailed hence about a month ago, gave chase to 
 an American schooner privateer, (having previously 
 recaptured a vessel taken by her,) but owing to the 
 superior sailing of the Castillian, she left the Jlvon a 
 considerable distance behind, who, after a short time, 
 found herself in sight of a vessel, which she hailed 
 and demanded who she was ; upon which she replied, 
 " heave to, and I'll let you know who I am ; (this was 
 about 9 at night,) and fired a gun at the Avon, when 
 a most sanguinary action commenced, which continu- 
 ed until 1 1 o'clock ; she then sheared off*, and said, 
 *Mhisis the fVasp." She appeared in a sinking state, 
 and glad to get off. The Avon then fired signal guns 
 to the Castillian. Upon flie Castillian coming to the 
 Avon, she fell in with the IVasp, and demanded who 
 she was ; to which she made no answer. The Castill- 
 ian luffed under her lee quarter and gave her a broad- 
 

 X 
 
 s . 
 
 
 V 
 
 \ 
 
 V 
 
 \ 
 
 \ 
 
 X 
 
 ^ 
 
 
 N. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 145 
 
 side, and then bailed aojain — but no answer, nor yet a 
 single musket fired.- The Castillian finding the sink- 
 ing state of the Avon, made every effort to save the 
 lives of her brave crew : fortunately the whole were 
 saved. As the last boat with the wounded had got 
 about half way to the Castillian, the Avon wenl down 
 head foremost. 
 
 We lament to say, that between the second and 
 third broadside, Lieut. Prendergast, the gallant first 
 lieutenant of the Avon received a mortal wound 
 across the belly, from a grape shot, while in the act 
 of cheering the crew. The Avon had nine killed and 
 thirty three wounded. As soon as the Castillian had 
 discharged the duties of humanity, in taking on board 
 the Avon's crew, she made ail sail for the Wasp, who 
 appeared so cut up, as to be in a sinking state ; but 
 could not make out any trace whatever of her. 
 
 Names of the superior officers on board the Avon : 
 Hon. John James Arbuthnot, captain ; John Harvey, 
 first lieutenant ; John Prendergast, second do. ; and 
 James Allen, master. 
 
 The Tartarus sloop of war, joined the Castilian 
 as the Avon was sinking, and took on board forty of 
 her men. 
 
 VICTORY ON LAKE CHAMPLAIN. 
 
 COPIES OF LETTERS FIJOM COM. MACDONOUGH TO THE 
 SECKKTARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 U. S. Ship Saratoga, off Plattshurs;, 
 Sir, September \\, 181k 
 
 The Almighty has been pleased to grant us a sig 
 nal vi.ctory on Lake Champlain, in the capture of 1 
 frigate, 1 brig, and 2 sloops of war of the enemy. 
 I have the honor to be, very respectfully. 
 
 Sir, your most obedient servant, 
 Hon William Jones, T. MACDONOUCai. 
 Sec'y of the navy. 
 
14G NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Sir, September 13, 1S14. 
 
 By Lieut. Commandant Cassin, I have the honor to 
 convey to you the flagfe of his Britannic Majesty's 
 late squadron, captured on the 11th inst. by the United 
 States squadron under my command. Also my des- 
 patches relating to that occurance, which should have 
 been in your possession at an earlier period, but for the 
 difficulty in arranging different statements. 
 
 The squadron under my command now lies at Platts- 
 burg. It will bear considerable diminution, and still 
 leave a force sufficient to repel any attempt of the ene- 
 my in this quarter. I shall wait your order what to 
 do with the whole or any part thereof 
 
 I have the honor to be, &.c. 
 
 Hon W. Jones, T. MACDONOUGH. 
 
 Secretary of the navy. 
 Sir, September 13, 1814 
 
 I have the honor to give you the particulars of the 
 action which took place on the 11th instant on this 
 lake. 
 
 For several days the enemy were on their way to 
 Plattsburg, by land and water, .ind it being well un- 
 derstood that an attack would be made at the same 
 time by their land and naval forces, I determined to 
 await at anchor the approach of the latter. 
 
 At 8 A. M. the look-out boat announced the ap- 
 proach of the enemy. At 9 he anchored in a line 
 ahead, at about 300 yards distance from my line ; 
 his ship opposed to the Saratoga, his brig to the Ea- 
 ghy Capt. Robert Henly his galleys, 13 in number, to 
 the schooner, sloop, and a division of our galleys ; I 
 of his sloops assisting their ship and brig, the other 
 assisting their galleys : our remaining galleys with the 
 Saratoga and Eagle. 
 
 In this situation the whole force on both sides be- 
 cam(! enjjajred, the Saratosra sufferinjj nuich from the 
 heavy fire of the Gonfiance. I could perceive at the 
 same time, however, that our fire was very destructive 
 to her. The Ticonderoga, Lieut. Com. Cassin, gal- 
 lantly sustained her full share of the action. At ^ past 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 147 
 
 10 o'clock, the Eagle, not being able to bring her guns 
 to bear, cut her cable and anchored in a more eligible 
 position, between my ship and the Ticonderoga, where 
 she was much annoyed by the enemy, but unfortunate- 
 ly leaving me exposed to a galling fire from the ene- 
 my's brig. Our guns on the starboard side being 
 nearly all dismounted, or not manageable, a stern an- 
 chor was let go, the bow cable cut, and the ship win- 
 ded with a fresh broadside on the enemy's ship, which 
 soon after surrendered. Our broadside was then 
 sprung to bear on the brig, which surrendered in 15 
 minutes after. 
 
 The sloop that was opposed to the Eagle had struck 
 some time before and drifted down the line, the sloop 
 which was with their galleys having struck also. 
 
 Three of their galleys are said to be sunk ; the 
 others pulled off. Our galleys were about obeying 
 with alacrity the signal to follow them, when all the 
 vessels were reported to me to be in a sinking state ; 
 it then became necessary to annul the signal to the 
 galleys and order their men to the pumps. 
 
 I could only look at the enemy's galleys going off 
 in a shattered condition, for there was not a mast in 
 ■f^ither squadron that could stand to make sail on ; the 
 lower rigging being nearly all shot away, hung down 
 as though it had been just placed over the mast heads. 
 
 The Saratoga had 55 round shot in her hull, the 
 Conjiance 105. The enemy's shot passed principally 
 just over our heads, as there were not 20 whole ham- 
 mocks in the nettings at the close of the action, which 
 lasted without intermission 2 hours and 20 minutes. 
 
 The absence and sickness of Lieut. Raymond Perry, 
 left me without the services of that excellent officer ; 
 much ought fairly to be attributed to him for his great 
 care and attention m disciplining the ship's crew as 
 her 1st Lieutenant. His place was filled by a gallant 
 young officer, Lieut. Peter Gamble, who, I regret to. 
 inform you was killed early in the action. Acting 
 Lieut. Valette worked the 1st and 2d divisions of guns 
 with able effect. Sailing-Master Brum's attention to 
 
148 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 the springs, and in the execution of the order to wind 
 the ship, and occasionally at the guns, meets with my 
 entire approbation, also Capt. Youngs, commanding 
 the acting marines, who took his men to the guns. 
 Mr. Beale, purser, was of great service at the guns, 
 and in carrying my orders throughout the ship, with 
 Midshipman Montgomery. Master's Mate Joshua 
 Justin, had command of the 3d division : his conduct 
 during the action was that of a brave and correct of- 
 ficer. Midshipmen Monteath, Graham, Willinmson, 
 Piatt, Thwing, and acting Midshipman Baldwin, all 
 behaved well, and gave evidence of their making valu- 
 able officers. 
 
 The Saratoga was twice set on fire by hot shot from 
 the enemy's ship. 
 
 I close, sir, this communication with feelings of 
 gratitude for the able support I received from every 
 officer and man attached to the squadron which I have 
 the honor to command. 
 
 I have the honor to be, with great respect, 
 Sir your most obedient servant, 
 
 Hon. W. Jones, T. MACDONOUGH. 
 
 Secretary of the navy. 
 
 P. S. Accompanying this is a list of killed and 
 wounded, a list of prisoners, and a precise statement 
 of both forces engaged. Also letters from Capt. Hen- 
 ley and Lieut. Com. Cassin. T. 31. 
 
 Return of killed and wounded on hoard the United 
 States squadron on Lake Champlain, in the en- 
 gagement loith the British Jleet on the lith Sep- 
 tember, 1S14.. 
 
 Ship Saratoga. Killed — Peter Gamble, lieu- || 
 
 tenant ; Thomas Butler, quarter gunner ; James Nor- wl 
 
 berry, boatswain's mate; Abraham Davis, quarter 
 master ; William Wyer, sail maker ; and twenty-three 
 eeamen. 
 
 Wou N DE T) — Twenty-nine. 
 
 Jhig Eagle. Killed — Thirteen. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 149 
 
 « 
 
 Wounded — Joseph Smith, lieutenant ; WilHam 
 A. Spencer, acting lieutenant ; Francis Breeze, mas- 
 ter's mate ; Abraham Walters, pilot ; and sixteen sea- 
 men. 
 
 Schooner Ticonderoga. Killed — John Stansbury, 
 lieutenant ; John Fisher and John Atkinson, boat- 
 swain's mates ; and three seamen. 
 
 Wounded — Six. 
 
 Sloop PrehU. Killed — Two. 
 
 Wounded — None. 
 
 Gun-boat Borer. Killed — Three. 
 
 Wounded — One. 
 
 Gun-boat Centipede. Wounded — One. 
 
 Gun-boat Wilm,er. Wounded — One. 
 
 RECAPITULATION. 
 
 
 Killed. 
 
 Wounded 
 
 Saratoga - 
 
 - 28 
 
 29 
 
 Eagle 
 
 - 13 
 
 20 
 
 Ticonderoga 
 
 - 6 
 
 6 
 
 Preble 
 
 - 2 
 
 
 
 Borer 
 
 - 3 
 
 1 
 
 Centipede - 
 
 - 
 
 1 
 
 Wilmer 
 
 - 
 
 1 
 
 Total 52 58 
 
 Gun-boats JVettle, Mien, Viper, Burrows, Ludlow, 
 Mwyn, Ballard — None killed or wounded. 
 
 GEORGE BEALE, jr. Purser. 
 
 Statement of the American force engaged on the 
 llth September, 1814. 
 
 Saratoga, eight long 24 pounders, six 42 pound 
 carronades, and twelve 32 pound carronades - 26 
 
 Eagle, twelve 23 pound carronades, and eight 
 long 18s - - - - - 20 
 
 Ticonderoga, eight long 12 pounders, four long 
 18 pounders, and five 32 pound carronades - 17 
 
 Preble seven long 9 pounders _ - - ^ 
 
 Ten galleys, viz. — Allen, Burroivs, Borer, JVet- 
 
150 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 tie, Viper, Centipede, one long 24 pounder 
 and one IS pound colunibiad each - - 12 
 Ludlow, Wiliner, Mwin, Ballard, 1 long 12 
 pounder each ------ 4 
 
 Guns, 86 
 
 Recapitulation — fourteen long 24 pounders, six 42 
 pound carronades, twenty-nine 32 pound carronades, 
 twelve long 18 pounders, twelve long 12 pounders, 
 seven long 9 pounders, six 18 pound columbiads. 
 Total 86 guns. 
 
 T. MACDONOUGH 
 
 Statement of the Enemy's force engaged on the lith 
 
 of September, 1814. 
 
 Frigate Confiance, twenty-seven long 24 pounders, 
 four 32 pound carronades, six 24 pound car- 
 ronades, and two long 18 pounders on the birth 
 
 deck 39 
 
 Brig Linnet, Sixteen long twelve pounders - 16 
 Sloop Chub, * ten 18 pound carronades, one long 
 
 6 pounder - - - - 11 
 
 Sloop Finch, * six 18 pound carronades, one 18 
 
 pound columbiad, and four long 6 pounders - 11 
 Thirteen galleys, viz.— Sir James Yeo, Sir George 
 Frevost, Sir Sidney Becktoith, one long 24 
 pounder, and one 32 lb. carronade each - 6 
 
 Broke, one 18 pounder, and one 32 lb. carronade - 2 
 Murry, one 18 pounder, and one 18 lb. carronade - 2 
 Wellington, Tecumseh, and one other, name un- 
 known, one 18 pounder each . _ _ 3 
 .Drummond, Simcoe and 3 others, names un- 
 known, one 32 lb carronade each - - 5 
 
 Total, guns, 95 
 
 Recapitulation — thirty long 24 pounders, seven 18 
 pounders, sixteen 12 pounders, five 6 pounders, thir- 
 teen 32 pound carronades, six 24 pound carronades, 
 
 • These bloops were formerly the U, S. Growler and Eagle, 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 151 
 
 seventeen 18 pound carronades, one 18 pound colum 
 biiid. Total 95 guns. 
 
 T. MACDONOUGH 
 
 COPY OF A LETTER FROM LIEUT. CASSIN TO COM. MACDO- 
 NOUGH. 
 
 U. S. Schooner Ticonderoga, Plattsburg Bay^ 
 Sir, September 12, 1814. 
 
 It is with pleasure I state, that every officer 
 and man under my command did their duty yesterday. 
 
 Your's respectfully, 
 Com. T. Macdonough. STEPHEN CASSIN. 
 
 Lieut, commanding. 
 
 COPY OF a LETTER FROM LIEUT. HENLEY TO COM. MAC- 
 DONOUGH. 
 
 Sir, U. S. Brig Eagle, Plattsburg, Sept. 12, 1814. 
 
 I am happy to inform you that all my officers and 
 men acted bravely, and did their duty in the battle of 
 yesterday with the enemy. 
 
 I shall have the pleasure of making a more partic- 
 ular representation of the respective merits of my gal- 
 lant officers to the honorable the secretary of the 
 navy. 
 
 I have the honor to be, respectfully. 
 
 Sir, your most obedient servant, 
 
 R. HENLEY. 
 
 P. S. We had 39 round shot in our hull (mostly 24 
 pounders) 4 in our lower masts — and we were well 
 peppered with grape. I enclosed my boatswain's 
 report, R- H. 
 
 COVt OF A LETTER FROM GEORGE BEALE, JR. TO COM. 
 
 MACDONOUGH. 
 
 Sir, U. S. Ship Saratoga Sept. 13, 1814. 
 
 I have the honor to enclose you a list of the killed 
 an.j wounded on board the different vessels of the 
 squadron under your command, in the action of the 
 llin inst. 
 
152 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 It is impossible to ascertain correctly the loss of 
 the enemy. From the best information received from 
 the British officers, from my own observations, and 
 from various lists found on board the Conjiance, I 
 calculate the number of men on board that ship at the 
 commencement of the action at 270, of whom at least 
 180 were killed and wounded, and on board the other 
 captured vessels at least SO more, making in the whole, 
 killed and wounded, 260. This is doubtless short of 
 the real number, as many were thrown overboard from 
 the Conjiance during the engagement. 
 
 The muster books must have been thrown overboard, 
 or otherwise disposed of, as they are not to be found. 
 I am, sir, very respectfully, 
 
 your obedient servant, 
 GEORGE BEALE, jr. Purser. 
 
 Com. T. Macdonough. 
 
 List of British officers captured on the llth Sep- 
 tember, on Lake Champlain, and sent to Greenhush. 
 
 Capt. Daniel Pring, on parole ; Lieutenants Hicks, 
 Creswick, Robinson, M'Glie, Drew, Hornby, Child, 
 and Fitzpatrick ; Sailing Master Bryden ; Masters' 
 Mates Clark and Simmonds ; Surgeon Todd ; Purser 
 Gile ; 'Captain's Clerk Guy ; Midshipmen Aire, Bou- 
 dell, Toorke, Kewstra ; Davidson, boatswain ; Elvin, 
 gunner ; Mickell, gunner ; Cox, carpenter ; Parker, 
 purser; Martin, surgeon; M'Cabe, assistant surgeon, 
 
 COPY OF A LETTER FROM COM. MACDONOUGH TO BRIG. 
 
 GEN. MACOMH. 
 
 U. S. Ship Saratoga, off Plattshurg, 
 Dear Sir, September 13, 1814. 
 
 Enclosed is a copy of a letter from Capt. Whit*^ 
 Youngs, and a list of killed and wounded attached to 
 his command. 
 
 '' 1 beg leave to recommend Capt. Youngs to your 
 particular notice ; during the action his conduct was 
 such as to meet with my warmest a| probation. 1 
 feel much indebted to him for his pei;sonal valor and 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 153 
 
 example of coolness and intrepidity to his own men, 
 as well as to the sailors. He volunteered in a sinking 
 boat to carry my order to the gallies, for close action, 
 in the hottest part of it ; and supplied the guns with 
 his men as fast as the sailors were disabled. 
 I am with much respect and esteem, 
 
 your obedient servant. 
 Brig. Gen. Macomb, T. MACDONOUGH. 
 
 of U. S. army. 
 
 LETTER FROM GEN. MACOMB TO THE SEC'y OF WAR. 
 
 Capt. Youngs of the 15th, is an officer of distin- 
 guished merit, and has conducted himself with the 
 greatest propriety on board the fleet. By his exam- 
 ple and attention we have been able to keep the fleet 
 manned from the line, which has been the means of 
 contributing to the result of the naval engagement ; 
 I therefore recommend him to the particular notice 
 of the war department. 
 
 September 18, 1814. ALEX. MACOMB. 
 
 COPY OF A LETTKR FROM GAPT. YOUNGS TO COM, MACDO- 
 NOUGH. 
 
 United States Ship Saratoga Lake Champlain, 
 Sir, September 14, 1814. 
 
 I have the honor of encloseing to you a list of killed 
 and wounded troops of the line (acting marines on 
 board the squadron, Lake Champlain) in the action of 
 the 11th instant. 
 
 In attempting to do justice to the brave officers and 
 men 1 have had the honor to command, my feeble abil- 
 ities fall far short of my wishes — First Lieut. Mor- 
 rison, 33d infantry, stationed on board the U. S brig 
 Eagle, was wounded, but remained on deck during 
 the action, animating his men by his honorable con- 
 duct. Second Lieut. James Young, 6th infantry, on 
 board the U. S. schooner, Ticonderoga, nierils n^ 
 warmest thanks : I would particularly recommend him 
 to your notice. Second Lieut. William B. Howell, 15th 
 infantry in the U. S. ship, Saratoga, rendered me every 
 20 
 
154 NAVAL MONUMENT. • 
 
 assistance ; notwithstanding his having been confined 
 for ten days of a fever, yet, at the commencement of 
 the action, he was foii|jd on deck, and continued un- 
 til the enemy had struck, when he was borne to his 
 bed. I would also recommend him to your notice. 
 
 The conduct of the non-commissioned officers and 
 privates was so highly honorable to their country and 
 themselves, it would be superfluous to particularize 
 them. 
 
 I have the honor to be. 
 
 Sir, your obedient servant, 
 Com. T. Macdonough, &c. WHITE YOUNGS, 
 
 Capt. \5th Inf. com'ing detach, 
 of acting marines. 
 
 COPY OF A LETTER FROM LIEUT. HENLEY TO THE SECRE- 
 TARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 Sir, U. S. Ship Eagle, off Plattsburg, Sept. 10, 1S14. 
 
 Permit me to make you acquainted with that part of 
 the action of yesterday, which was particularly borne 
 by the vessel which I have the honor to command, as 
 it may not appear in the official report of Capt. Mac- 
 donough, whose duty it is to make a true and impartial 
 statement of facts. 
 
 Being at anchor in the harbor of Plattsburg, in a 
 line north and south, at the distance of about 100 
 yards the Eagle north, the Saratoga in the centre, and 
 the Ticonteroga south, the enemy approached, in a 
 line a breast, with a favorable wind, which enabled him 
 to choose his position ; his brig taking her station 
 on the stabord bow of the Eagle, at the distance of 
 about a mile, his ship about one point abaft her [the 
 Eagle's] beam, and the sloop Linnet, of 11 guns, 
 making an effort to obtain a raking position under our 
 stern. Perceiving the object of the sloop, I ordered 
 ker a broadside, which compelled her immediately to 
 strike her colours. 
 
 At the moment when the enemy's ship had ap- 
 proached within point-blank distance, the Eagle com- 
 menced upon her a most destructive tire of her whole 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 155 
 
 broadside, excepting the two long 18s forward, which 
 were occasionally discharged at the enemy's brig, who 
 frequently relieved her position and kept up a ra- 
 king and most destructive fire upon this vessel. 
 
 I was confident that it was of the highest impor- 
 tance, in order to insure success, to endeavour first to 
 carry the enemy's ship. For a great length of time 
 after the commencement of the action, the ship level- 
 led her whole force upon the Eagle, dealing forth de- 
 struction. 
 
 After having sustained the severest of the action for 
 more than one hour — having my springs shot away — 
 many of my starboard guns disabled, and not being in 
 a situation to bring one of them to bear upon either 
 the enemy's ship or brig, I ordered the cable cut and 
 cast the brig, taking an advantageous position a little 
 south of the Saratoga, bringing my larboard broad- 
 side to bear upon the ship, which was very soon com- 
 pelled to haul down her colours. Our fire was now 
 directed at the brig, which struck in the space of eight 
 minutes, and our contest terminated in victorv. We 
 now turned our attention toward the galhes, some of 
 which, it is believed, sunk, and the residue made their 
 escape. The Eagle, was in too shattered a condition 
 to pursue them. 
 
 I have the honor to enclose the surgeon's report of the 
 killed and wounded on board the Eagle, by which you 
 will perceive there were 13 killed and 21 wounded, 
 most of them severely : also a copy of the report of 
 the meritorious conduct of my officers and men, which 
 I made to Capt. Macdonough, for your information, 
 and which he has since informed me he had lost. 
 I have the honor to be. 
 
 Sir, with high respect, vour obe't ser' 't. 
 
 ROBERT HENLEY. 
 
 Another letter from Capt. Henley to the Secretary 
 of war, of the above date, encloses his report of kil- 
 led and wounded, and recommends Lieut. Joseph 
 Smith, Acting Lieut. Spencer, Acting Sailing-master 
 
156 NAVAL MOxVUMENT. 
 
 Record, Acting Lieut. Loomis, Midshipmen Cham- 
 berlain, Maclicsny and Tardy, Surgeon Stoddard, 
 Volunteer Loomis, Mr. Smith the gunner, Mr. John- 
 son the carpenter, Mr. Willson the boatswain, as 
 havin'T discharj^ed their duties as became Americans. 
 
 PAKTICULARS. 
 
 Com. Macdonough is the son of Dr. Macdonough, 
 late of New-Castlecounty,state of Delaware. He was 
 a midshipman under Com. Decatur, at Tripoli, and 
 one of the gallant band that destroyed the Philadel- 
 phian. At the time of the battle on Lake Champlain, 
 he was about 2S years of age. He is a religious man, 
 as well as a hero, and prayed with his brave men on 
 the morning of the victory. All the officers on board 
 the commodore's ship were either killed or wounded. 
 He was asked how he escaped amid such carnage, 
 and replied, pointing to heaven, " There was a power 
 above which determined the fate of man." 
 
 He had repeatedly to work his own guns, when his 
 men at them were shot and three times he was driven 
 across the deck by splinters. 
 
 At one time during the battle, Macdonough had all 
 his guns on one side l3ut two dismounted, when he wore 
 his ship. The enemy endeavouring to dp the same, 
 failed and gave us an opportunity to rake him. Our 
 superior gunnery is again provided, as the enemy had 
 two to one of ours killed or wounded ; and they had 
 locks to their guns, which we had not 
 
 The gallies did but little, and the enemy's gallies, 
 which were distant spectators, pulled off when they 
 saw their fleet was beaten. 
 
 The battle was exceedingly obstinate ; the enemy 
 fought gallantly ; but the superiority of our gunnery 
 was irresistible. We fired much oftener than they 
 did. All the vessels were much wrecked. 
 
 The killed on both sides have a very unusual pro- 
 portion to the wounded — on ours 52 to 58! This is 
 perhaps unprecedented, and may serve to shew the 
 warmth and closeness of the action. 
 
NAVAL MONUMEiXT. 157 
 
 In the hottest of the action, a cock in the commo- 
 doj'e's ship flew into the shrowds, and crowed three 
 times ' The crew seized the happy omen, and shout- 
 ed victory ! This little incident must have had a 
 powerful effect on the seamen. 
 
 A sailor, who had been hard at w^ork from the com- 
 mencement until the conclusion of the fight, seeing 
 the British flag lowered, with a smile on his counten- 
 ance, addressed a companion, "Well, Jack, this is all 
 the fun I have had this war," at the same time very 
 leisureh wiping the sweat from his face. "I am more 
 lucky," said the other, "for this is the second Frolic* 
 I have had!" 
 
 The schooners Grainier and Tigress, captured from 
 us the year preceding, were desperately defended. 
 When the former was towed into Plattsburg, she had 
 only five men on board on their legs. 
 
 The British loss was immense. On board the 
 Conjiance alone 160 were killed. Com. Downie fell 
 in the early part of the action. Capt. Preng, who had 
 been censured by Sir George Prevost, fought his brig 
 15 minutes after the other vessels had struck. 
 
 The British certainly supposed that the battle would 
 have terminated in their favor. It appears evident, 
 that they expected to defeat our squadron, to proceed 
 to the upper end of the lake, and to establish them- 
 selves on shore. For this purpose they had provided 
 heavy cannon for mounting, and put them on board 
 their vessels to bo landed and stationed after the en- 
 gagement. Com. Macdonough found, on examining the 
 prizes, concealed under the platform of the vessels 
 w^here they served for ballast, 25 pieces, 6, 9, 12, and 
 long 18 pounders, and a large quantity of grape and 
 cannister shot — so happily diverted from their original 
 purpose by the glorious victory of the 11th of Sep- 
 tember. 
 
 *He was with Capt. Jones at the taking of the Frolic. 
 
158 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 LOSS OF THE PRESIDENT. 
 
 COPY OF A LETTER FROM COM. DECATUR TO THE SEC- 
 RETARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 //. B. M. Ship Endymion, at sea, 
 Sir, January 18, 1814". 
 
 The painful duty of detailing to you the particular 
 causes which preceded and led to the capture of the 
 late United States frigate President, by a squadron 
 of his Britannic Majesty's ships (as per margin) has 
 devolved upon me. In my communication of the I4th, 
 I made known to you my intention of proceeding to 
 sea on the evening. Owing to some mistake of the 
 pilot, the ship in going out grounded on the bar, where 
 she continued to strike heavily for an hour and a half: 
 although she had broken several of her rudder braces, 
 and had received such other material injury as to ren- 
 der her return into port desirable, I was unable to, 
 do so from the strong westerly wind which was then 
 blowing. It being now high water, it became neces- 
 sary to force her over the bar before the tide fell ; in 
 this we succeeded by 10 o'clock, when we shaped our 
 course along the shore of Long-Island for 50 miles, 
 and then steered S, E. by E. At 5 o'clock, three 
 ships were discovered ahead : we immediately hauled 
 up the ship, and passed two miles to the northward of 
 them. At daylight we discovered four ships in chase, 
 one on each quarter, and two astern, the leading ship 
 of the enemy a razee. She commenced a fire upon us, 
 but without effect. At meridian the wind became light 
 and bafflinsf ; we had increased our distance from the 
 razee, but the next ship astern, which was also a large 
 ship, had gained and continued to gain upon us con- 
 siderable ; we immediately occupied all hands to ligh- 
 ten ship, by starting water, cutting away the an- 
 chors, throwing overboard provisions, cables, spare 
 spars, boats, andevery article th.Tt could be got at, keep- 
 ing the sails wet from the royals down. At 3, we 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. I59 
 
 had the wind quite light ; the enemy, who had now 
 hern joined by a brig, had a strong breeze, and were 
 coining up with ns rapidly. The Endymion (moun- 
 ting 50 guns, 24 pounders on the main deck) had now 
 approached us within gun-shot, and had commenced 
 a fire with her bow guns, which we returned from our 
 stern. At 5 o'clock, she had obtained a position on 
 our starboard quarter, within half point-blank shot, on 
 which neither our stern nor quarter guns would bear ; 
 we were now steering E. by N. the wind N. W. I 
 remained with her in this position for half an hour, in 
 {lie hope that she would close with us on our broad- 
 side, in which case I had prepared my crew to board ; 
 but from his continuing to yaw his ship to maintain 
 his position, it became evident that to close was not 
 his intention. Every fire now cut some of our sails 
 or rigging. To have continued our course under these 
 circumstances, would have been placing it in his pow- 
 er to cripple us, without being subjectfo injury him- 
 self; and to have hauled up more to the northward to 
 bring our stern guns to bear, would have exposed us 
 to his raking fire. It was now dusk, when I determin- 
 ed to alter my course south, for the purpose of bring- 
 ing the enemy abeam, and although their ships 
 astern were drawing up fast, I felt satisfied I should be 
 enabled to throw him out of the combat before 
 they could come up, and was not without hopes, if the 
 night proved dark, (of which there was every appear- 
 ance) that I might still be enable to eflfect my escape. 
 Our opponant kept off* at the snme instant we did, 
 and our fire commenced at the same time. We con- 
 tinued engaged, steering south, with steering sails set, 
 two hours and a half, when we completely succeeded 
 in dismantling her. Previously to her dropping en- 
 tirely out of the action, there were intervals of minutes, 
 when theships were broadside and broadside, in which 
 she did not fire a gun. At this period, (half pas: 8 
 o'clock) although dark, the other ships of the bquad- 
 ron were in sight, and almost within gun-shot. We 
 were of course compelled to abandon her. In resu- 
 
KJO >-AVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 miner our former course for the purpose of avoiding 
 the squadron, we were compelled to present our stern 
 to our antagonist-but such was his state though we 
 were thus exposed and within range of his guns for 
 half an hour, that he did not avail himself of this a- 
 vorable opportunity of raking us We contniued this 
 course until 11 o'clock when two fresh ships of the en- 
 emy (the Pomone and Tenedos) had come up. Ihe 
 Pomone had opened her fire on the larboard bow with- 
 in musket shot ; the other about two cables length 
 astern taking a raking position on our quarter ; and 
 ^htre^t (with the exception of the Endymroii) withm 
 lun-shot. Thus situated, with about one fifth of my 
 Irew killed and wounded, my ship crippled and a 
 more than four-fold force opposed to me without a 
 Tance of escape left, I deemed it my duty to sur- 
 
 '^ ItTs with emotions of pride I bear testimony to the 
 gallantry and Steadiness of every officer and man 
 ha he honor to command on this occasion; and 1 
 f^e satisfied that the fact of their having bea en a 
 force equal to themselves, in the presence and almost 
 under the guns of so vastly a superior force, when, too, 
 U was almost self-evident, that whatevex their exer- 
 t ons m'X be, they must ultimately be captured, will 
 e Iken as evidence of what they would have per- 
 formed! had the force opposed to them been m any de- 
 
 '7t ^s' wi'h extreme pain I have to inform you th^^^ 
 I it itenants Babbit, Hamilton, and Howell fell m the 
 LTion They have left no officers of superior merit 
 
 'trslJThe issue of this aff^air had been fortunate 1 
 
 11 Sir, "»- 'T: ;, „v dutv to liiivo rccommendcl lo 
 
 ''"'"''' .^.nHon I eZans Sl.ul.ri<. an.l Gallagher. 
 
 his men ^ve^;^^cU sup.-lioa an,l .heir lue ...conn-ara- 
 
NAVAL MONUMEiNT. 161 
 
 ble, SO long a* .he enemy continued within musket 
 range. 
 
 Midshipman Randolph, who had charge of the 
 forecastle division, managed it to my entire satisfac- 
 tion. 
 
 From Mr. Robinson, who was serving as a volun- 
 teer, I received essential aid, particularly after I was 
 deprived of the services of the master, and the severe 
 loss I had sustained in my officers on the quarter 
 deck. 
 
 Of our loss in killed and wounded, I am unable at 
 present to give you a correct statement ; the attention 
 of the surgeon being so entirely occupied with the 
 wounded, that he was unable to make out a correct 
 return when I left the President ; nor shall I be able 
 to make it until our arrival in port, we having parted 
 company with the squadron yesterday. The enclosed 
 Hst, with the exception, I fear, of its being short of 
 the number, will be found correct. 
 
 For 24< hours after the action, it was nearly calm ; 
 and the squadron were occupied in repairing the crip- 
 pled ships. Such of the crew of the President as 
 were not badly wounded, were put on board the dif- 
 ferent ships : myself and a part of my crew were put 
 on board this ship. On the 17th we had a gale from 
 the eastward, when this ship lost her bowsprit, fore 
 and main-masts and mizen top-mast, all of which 
 were badly wounded, and was in consequence of her 
 disabled condition, obliged to throw overboard all her 
 upper deck guns. Her loss in killed and wounded 
 must have been very great. I have not been able to 
 ascertain the extent. Ten were buried after I came 
 oM board (36 hours after the action) ; the badly woun- 
 ded, such as are obliged to keep their cots, occupy 
 the starboard side of the gun deck from the cal)in 
 bulk-head to the main-mast. From the crippled state 
 of the President's spars, I feel satisfied she could not 
 have saved her masts, and I feel serious apprehensions 
 for the safety of our wounded left on board. 
 
 [t is due to Capt. Hope to state, that every atten 
 21 
 
162 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 tion has been paid by him to myself and officers who 
 have been placed on board his ship, that delicacy and 
 humanity could dictate. 
 
 I have the honor to be, with much respect, 
 Sir, your obedient servant, 
 
 STEPHEN DECATUR. 
 Hon. B. W. Crow^ningshield, 
 Secretary of the navy. 
 
 British squadron referred to in the letter. 
 
 Majestic (razee,) Endymion, Pomone, Tenedos, 
 Despatch (brig). 
 
 List of killed and ivounded on hoard the United 
 lies Frigate President. 
 
 Killed — Lieutenants F. H. Babbit, and twenty 
 two seamen. 
 
 Wounded — Sailing-Master Rogere, Mr. Robin- 
 son, Midshipmen Dale and Brewster, Master's Mate 
 Parker, and fifty seamen. 
 
 FURTHER PARTICULARS. 
 
 When the President first saw the British ships at 
 day hght, directly astern of her, and knowing them 
 of course to be enemies, crowded all sail to escape — 
 but owing to the misfortune which she sustained the 
 night before of beating on the bar, off New- York, 
 being deeply laden with water and provisions for a 
 long cruise, and not having her proper trim, the ene- 
 my's leading ship the Endymion, succeeded in getting 
 close along side of her, and brought her to action 
 about sun-set. Both ships were under a press of sail. 
 The Endymion was disabled and silenced, and the 
 President, when she finally struck to the Pomone and 
 Tenedos, was carrying royal studding sails, still en- 
 deavoring to effect her escape. 
 
 Remaining two hours on the bar was the primary 
 cause of the lost of this noble ship — for had she pas- 
 sed ov<;r without difficulty, she would have been out 
 of sight of the British ships before day-light. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 163 
 
 The President, after her capture, lost all her masts 
 by the board in a violent gale of wind, and arrived at 
 Bermuda under jury masts, on the 28th of January, 
 just a fortnight from the date of her sailing from New- 
 York. The Endymion arrived two days before, with 
 the loss of her fore and main-masts, (considerably 
 above deck by wounds) and bowsprit. 
 
 The Endymion' s loss, according to the report of the 
 British officers, was 11 killed and 14 wounded. 
 
 Our brave commodore received a severe contusion 
 on the breast, which knocked him down, but he soon 
 recovered. 
 
 The lamented Lieut. Babbit, 1st of the President^ 
 was from Brookfield, Mass. He was mortally woun- 
 ded early in the action by a round shot in the thigh, 
 which shattered it so dreadfully, that he expired in 
 about an hour. He was in his 25th year, and was 
 justly esteemed one of the best officers in the service. 
 
 Lieut. Hamilton, 4th, served on the gun-deck, and 
 was instantaneously killed towards the close of the 
 action, by a 241b. shot, which struck him in the ab- 
 domen, and cut him in pieces. He was the son of 
 Paul Hamilton, Esq. of South Carolina, late secre- 
 tary of the navy, and was a youth of such gentleman- 
 ly deportment, and amiable manners, as to win and 
 retain the esteem of all who knew him. He was a 
 great favorite in the navy, and will be long afl'ection- 
 ately remembered by many, both in and out of the 
 service. Mr. Hamilton was a midshipman on board 
 the United States, when that ship took the Macedo- 
 nian, and was the officer, who had the honor of bear- 
 ing her colors to the city of Washington. 
 
 Lieut. Howell, 5th, lost his life by a splinter, which 
 struck him on the head and fractured his scull. He 
 was from New-Jersey, and was, like Hamilton, a 
 most excellent and exemplary youth. 
 
 In that trying engagement, the crew of the Presi- 
 dent behaved most noldy. The marines in particular, 
 under Lieut. Twigs, acquitted themselves with the 
 highest honor. 
 
16^ NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 However we may lament the loss of the brave men, 
 who fell ill this contest, the services of those wounded 
 or carried into captivity, or of the vessel herself, we re- 
 joice that our naval glory remains untarnished, and 
 that this capture of Decatur, like Porter's, will add to 
 his own fame, and the renown of his country. 
 
 In the Bermuda paper of the 3d of April, is inser- 
 ted a corespondence between the governor of those is- 
 lands, and Mr. Ward, the editor of the Royal Gazette, 
 which closes on the part of the governer by withdraw- 
 ing from that paper its title of Royal Gazette, and from 
 Mr. Ward the office of his Majesty's printer. The 
 governor appears to have been determined in this 
 course by the pertinacious adheranceof Mr.Ward to a 
 false statement, published in his paper, of the circum- 
 stances attending the capture of the United States 
 frigate President, which statement was at first cor- 
 rected by him, but afterwards re-asserted and adhered 
 to. 
 
 The Editor, in giving the reports of the capture, 
 stated, among other things, that the President struck 
 to the Endijmion ; and that after the President struck, 
 Com. Decatur concealed 68 men in the hold of the 
 President, for the purpose of rising on the prize 
 crew, and recapturing her. On the appearance of 
 this account, Capt. Hope, of the Endijmion, immedi- 
 ately sent an ofiicerto Com. Decatur, disclaiming any 
 participation in the article ; and the governor ol" the 
 island demanded of the editor of the Gazette, that 
 he should immediately contradict the statement ; 
 which was complied with. 
 
 The editor then repeats, that the retraction spoken 
 v>f was inserted merely as an act of generosity, and a 
 palliative for the irritated feelings of prisoners of war. 
 He had previously declared that he had, "subsequent- 
 ly to the publication of the retracting article, ascer- 
 tained, that the original statement was correct ; and 
 we do not (he says) hesitate unequivocally to declare, 
 upon the best authority, that ()8 men Were conceahMl 
 on board the President, and from other information we 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 105 
 
 have obtained, we are convinced the act was authorized 
 by Com. Decatur." 
 
 Immediately on the appearance of the above re- 
 murks, the governor of Bermuda directed a letter, of 
 which the following are extracts, to be sent to the 
 editor. 
 
 EXTRACTS FROM AN OFFICIAL LETTER FKO^I C. COOPER 
 ESQ. PRIVATE SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR AND 
 COVLMANUER L\ CHIEF. 
 
 Sir, Government- House, Bermuda, April 15, 1815. 
 
 In your paper of Thursday last, which calls for his 
 excellency's animadversion, you have ventured to as- 
 sert, that your publication in contradiction to your or- 
 iginal paragraph above alluded to, was issued in con- 
 sequence of your having been " requested to smooth it 
 over ;" and you go on to insinuate that the state- 
 ment contradicted was " founded in truth." It is im- 
 possible for his excellency to permit such a direct and 
 positive misrepresentation to stand uncontradicted, 
 and more especially as his excellency himself commu- 
 nicated to you Capt. Hope's pointed declaration, that 
 there was not the slightest foundation whatsoever for 
 the assertion which you had published, and that he him- 
 self and every officer in his majesty's service, felt the 
 utmost indignation and regret at the wanton insult of- 
 fered thereby to an enemy, who then being a prisoner 
 under the protection of the British flag, was entitled 
 to peculiar marks of delicacy and attention, of which 
 Capt. Hope, with the nicety of honourable feeling, 
 natural to an officer of the British navy, had felt so 
 truly sensible, as to have sent a brother officer the 
 moment the indecorous paragraph referred to met his 
 e)e, to express to Com. Decatur his indignation and 
 regret at its having appeared. 
 
 His excellency at the same time stated to you his 
 own opinion, and that of the officers of his majesty's 
 service, that the reprehensible paragraph should be in- 
 stantly and unequivocally contradicted, and not merely 
 "smoothed over," as you have now thought proper to 
 
1G6 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 declare ; thonirli at the time you seem fully inipressefl 
 with tfie pro[)riety of contradicring a statement, which 
 you hnd erroneously put forth, and of therehy making 
 the only retrebution wliich it was then in your power to 
 oflfer to those, whose characters had been so unjustly 
 defamed. His excellency felt anxious that the disa- 
 vowal to be published should be couched in terms the 
 least disagreeable to your own feelings, or hurtful to 
 the pnper, of which you are the editor. 
 
 His excellency has since seen with pain and regret, 
 that you have subsequently, on more than one occa- 
 sion, endeavored to retract the correction then made 
 by you of your prior mis-statement, and to impress 
 the readers of the Gazette with a belief, that your 
 original statement was established in fact, though you 
 had the highest authority, (that of Capt. Hope him- 
 self,) for knowing it to be completely unfounded. 
 These attempts his excellency has hither to passed 
 over — but your publication of Thursday imposes it 
 upon him as a duty to himself, to Capt. Hope, and to 
 the British nation, and in common justice to Com. 
 Decatur, who is not present to defend himself from 
 the aspersion which you have cast upon him, of " ut- 
 tering with reference to yourselves as base a falsehood 
 as ever was imposed upon the world," not to admit of 
 guch a document standing uncontradicted in a paper, 
 professed to be published under the immediate author- 
 ity of his majesty's government. 
 
 His excellency is thoroughly aware of the great im- 
 portance of preserving to the utniost extent perfect 
 freedom of dicussion, and the fullest liberty of the 
 press, in every part of the British dominions, and un- 
 doubtedly therefore nothing could be further from his 
 intentions than the most distant desire to " compel a 
 British editor to retract a statement founded in 
 truth" — but when a statement is founded in falsehood, 
 his excellency conceives it to be incumbent upon him, 
 equally in duty to the I5ritish public and in sujiport ot 
 the true character of the British j)ress, to demand (hat 
 that falsehood, whether directed against friend or loo, 
 
NAVAL MOXUME CT. 167 
 
 should be instantly contradicted, or that the paper 
 which thinks fit to disgrace its columns by persevering 
 in error, should no longer be distinguished by the 
 royal protection — and I am therefore commanded to 
 signify to you his excellency's desire, that your ensu- 
 ing publication may contain a due and respectful con- 
 tradiction of those parts of your comments upon Com. 
 Decatur's letter, which have now called for his excel- 
 lency's censure, or his excellency will feel it his boun- 
 den duty to remove you from the office of his majes- 
 ty's printer, which now gives a degree of weight to 
 observations contained in your paper, to which other- 
 wise they might not be entitled. 
 I have the honor to be, 
 
 Sir, your obedient servant, 
 
 C. COOPER, Private Sec'y 
 Edmund Ward, Esq. 
 Editor of the Royal Gazette, Bermuda. 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COM. DECATUR TO THE 
 SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 JVeiv York, March 6, 1815. 
 In my official letter of January 18, I omitted to 
 state, that a considerable Jiuniber of my killed and 
 wounded was from the fire of the Pomone, and that 
 the Endijmion had on board, in addition to her own 
 crew, 1 lieutenant, I master's mate, and 50 seamen, 
 belonging to the Satuim, and when the action ceased, 
 was left motionless and unmanageable until she bent 
 new sails, rove new rigging, and fished her spars ; nor 
 did she join the squadron until six hours after the ac- 
 tion, and three hours after the surrender of the Presi- 
 dent. My sword was delivered to Capt. Hays, of th»! v 
 Majestic, the senior officer of the squadron, on his 
 quarter deck, which he with great politeness immedi- 
 ately returned. I have the honor to enclose to yon 
 my parole, by which you will perceive the British ad- 
 mit the President was captured by the squadron. 1 
 should have deemed it unnecessary to have drawn 
 your attention to this document, had not the fact been 
 
168 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Stated differently in the Bermuda Gazette, on our ar- 
 rival there ; which statement, however, tlie editor was 
 compelled to retract, through the interference of the 
 governor and some of the British officers of the squad- 
 ron. 
 
 The great assiduity of Dr. Trevett and Surgeon's 
 Mates Dix and Wickes to the wounded, merits the 
 highest approbation. The only officer badly wound- 
 ed is Midshipman Richard Dale, who lost a leg, a 
 circumstance to be particularly regretted, as he is a 
 young man possessed of every quality to make a dis- 
 tinguished officer. 
 
 I have the honor to be, &.c. 
 
 STEPHEN DECATUR. 
 
 The following extract from a Bermuda paper was 
 republished at New York, in the Commercial Adver- 
 tiser. 
 
 " On Wednesday evening last, Mr. Randolph, of 
 the United States navy, late of the President frigate, 
 in company with some other officers of the ship, at- 
 tacked the editor of the Royal Gazette in a most 
 violent and unprovoked manner, with a stick, while he 
 was walking unarmed. The timely arrival of some 
 British officers prevented his proceeding to further acts 
 of violence. A guard shortly after came up, when 
 the offender had decamped ; and the next morning, 
 we understand, he was hoisted into a boat at the 
 crane, from the market wharf, and absconded — an 
 honourable way truly for an officer to quit a place, 
 where he had been treated with civility and polite- 
 
 ness." 
 
 The folloiving is a letter from Mr. Randolph to the 
 editors of the Commercial Advertiser. 
 
 A^ew York, Aprils, IS15. 
 Messrs. Lewis &/ Hall, 
 
 Having observed in your paper of Saturday last, an 
 extract from the 15ermuda (iazette, containing a false 
 and scandalous account of an affair in which 1 had an 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. *^''^ 
 
 agency, 1 send you for publication the subjoined state- 
 
 'k; ton^ a/r'-aTt.*:: =;ous ren^arUs in the 
 R^v.l Gazeue of the 15th ult. in relation to the cap- 
 
 ."^^^f the late U. S. f"g»^«/"-.''^" ' ,\:t.li "e 
 i iz-»^'^ i^nuarp with a determination to ciiasiisc 
 
 th: .^.tor I'soo^'fCu in with him and executed n.y 
 nuroose in the most ample and satisfactory manner. 
 '^ Titer; wa no American officer in company, except 
 M.^ hitman Emmet. Mr. Ward, the editor, was at- 
 ^.^ded bT Lieut. Sammon, of the royal navy ; hut by 
 ne"?her of these officers was I interrupted or assisted 
 
 '"SVtwously obtained my passport, and being 
 adWseTt1.rt the editor of the Royal Gazette was ta- 
 S measures to employ the civil a";''0"ty agams ine. 
 I left the Island the next day for the United btatcs. 
 
 I am gentlemen, ixc. ate. 
 R B RASOOLPil, Midshipmiin, 
 
 Late of the United States frigate Fresxdcit. 
 
 Copy of a letter from Com._ "•^'««"fj^f ^l" 
 
 ■aresident or a court of mqniry, held atJ^ew X0)K, 
 
 '^^o invTsti^ate the eauses of the eapture of the 
 
 mZ States frigate President, to the Secretory 
 
 of the navy. 
 ., e„ JVcw York, April IT, 1815. 
 
 .-I herewith transmit to you the result of the court 
 of inquiry, respecting the capture of the frigate J ,e.- 
 ident with the opinion of the court. 
 
 "wrhave beln more minute in our invest.gauou 
 than miaht, at first view, have been deemed necessary ; 
 but aT there has been a diversity of opinion prevailing 
 among he British commanders, concerned 'n he^cnp- 
 Tre h was desirable in our view, to lay before the 
 wodd in the most correct manner, every circum- 
 Ttance that led to that event ; which has afforde.! 
 rt^er liigh proof of American her.nsm and so high- 
 ly honorable to her commander, officer, and ciew, 
 
170 ~ NAVAL MONUMENT.* 
 
 that every American citizen must feel a pride in know- 
 ing that our flag has been so nobly defended." 
 
 The minutes of the court having been read and ap- 
 proved, the court was cleared, and after due deliber- 
 ation, resolved to express the sentiment $ and opinions 
 of the members, on the matters submitted to them, as 
 follows : 
 
 " In the execution of the orders of honorable the 
 secretary of the navy, we have (with the exception of 
 two very young midshipmen) examined every officer 
 belonging to the President, within the reach of the 
 court, who survived the late glorious contest between 
 the frigate President and a squadron of his Britannic 
 majesty. 
 
 " We are of opinion, that the primary cause of the 
 loss of the President was her running on the bar, as 
 she was leaving this port. The violence and the con- 
 tinuance of the; shocks she received for an hour and a 
 half or more, considering that she was laden with 
 stores and provisions for a very long cruise, could not 
 but have injured her greatly, and must have impeded 
 her sailing. Iler hogged and twisted appearance af- 
 ter she arrived at Bermuda, must have been the effects 
 of this unfortunate accident. We are convinced, that 
 it was owing to this that the enemy were able to over- 
 take her. 
 
 " The striking of the President on the bar cannot 
 be imputed to the fault of any officer who was at- 
 tachtid to her. On the contrary, we think every possi- 
 ble precaution was taken, and the utmost exertions 
 were used by her commander and officers, to insure 
 her safe passage over the bar, and to relieve her after 
 she had struck. The accident was occasioned by 
 some mistake in placing the boats, which were to 
 serve as beacons to the President^ through a channel 
 always dangerous for a vessel of her draught, but par- 
 ticularly so at such a time as she was obliged to select 
 for passing it, when the land marks could not be dis- 
 tinguished. 
 
 " J'^'rom the time that thesujjeriority of the cnemy'a 
 
NAVAL MOMUME.NT. 
 
 171 
 
 force was ascertained, and it became the d ity of the 
 President to evade it, we are convinced, that the most 
 proper measures were pursued, and that she made 
 everv possible effort to escape. No means, in our opin- 
 ion,*^ were so likely to be attended with success, as 
 those which were adopted by Com. Decatur. Any 
 iiuggestion, that different measures would iiave been 
 more proper or more likely to accomplish the object, 
 we think, are without foundation, and may be the re- 
 sult of ignorance or the dictates of a culpable ambi- 
 tion, or of envy. 
 
 We consider the management of the President, from 
 the time the chase commenced till her surrender, as 
 the highest evidence of the experience, skill, and re- 
 sources of her commander, and of the ability and sea- 
 manship of her officers and crew. We f<iar that we 
 cannot express, in a manner that will do justice to our 
 feelings, our admiration of the conduct of Com. De- 
 catur, and his officers and crew, while engaged with 
 the enemy, threatened with a force so superior, poses- 
 sing advantages, which must have appeared lo render 
 all opposition unavailing, otherwise than might affect 
 the honor of our navy, and the character of our sea- 
 men. They fought with a spir;^, which no prospect 
 of success could have heightened, and if victory had 
 met its common reward, the Endymion's name would 
 have been added to our list of naval conquests. In this 
 unequal conflict the enemy gained a ship, but the vic- 
 tory was ours. When the President was obliged to 
 leave the Endymion to avoid the other ships, which 
 were fast coming up, the Endymion was subdued ; and 
 if her friends had not been at hand to rescue her, she 
 was so entirely disabled, that she soon must have 
 struck her flag. A proof of this is, that she made 
 no attempt to pursue the President,or to annoy her by 
 a single shot, while the President was within her 
 reach, when, with the hope of escape from the over- 
 whelming force, which was nearly upon her, the 
 President presented her stern to the Endymion's 
 broadside. A farther proof that the Endymion was 
 
172 IVAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 conquered is, the shattered condition in which she ap- 
 peared, while the President, in the contest with her, 
 had sustained hut httle injury ; and the fact, that the 
 Endymion did not join her squadron till many hours 
 after the President had been surrounded by the other 
 four enemy ships, and had surrendered to them, is 
 stronjj corroborative evidence of the disabled state in 
 which the President left the Endymion. 
 ' "We think it due to Com. Decatur and his heroic 
 officers and crew, to notice the proposition he made to 
 board the Endymion, when he found she was couiing 
 up, and the manner in which this position was receiv- 
 ed by his gallant crew. 
 
 *" Such a design, at such a time, could only be con- 
 ceived by a soul without fear, and approved with en- 
 thusiastic cheering by men regardless of danger. Had 
 not the enemy perceived the attempt, and availed 
 himself of the power he had in the early part of the 
 action to shun the approach of the President, the 
 American stars might now be shining on the Endymi- 
 on. In the subsequent part of the engagement, the 
 enemy's squadron was too near to permit the execu- 
 tion of this design, and the disabled state of the Endy- 
 mion would have frustrated the principal object which 
 Com. Decatur had in making so bold an attempt, 
 which was to avail himself of the Endymion' s superi- 
 or sailing to escape with his crew from his pursuers. 
 
 "We conclude by expressing our opinion, that 
 Com. Decatur, as well during the chase, as through 
 his contest with the enemy, evinced great judgment 
 and skill, perfect coolness, the most determined reso- 
 lution and heroic courage — that his conduct, and the 
 conduct of his officers and crew, are highly honora- 
 ble to them, and to the American navy, and deserve 
 the warmest gratitude of their country — that they did 
 not give up their ship till she was surrounded and 
 overpowered by a force so superior, that further re 
 sistance would have been unjustifiable, and a useless 
 sacrifice of the lives of brave men. 
 
 "The order of the secretary of the navy requires us 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 17'J 
 
 to express an opinion as to the conduct of the officers 
 and crew of the President after the capture. The 
 testimony of all the witnesses concurs in enabhng us 
 to give it our decided approbation. 
 By the Court. 
 
 "ALEX. MURRAY, President. 
 "CoDWALADER D. CoLDEN, Judge Advocate. 
 Approved, B. W. Crowningshield." 
 "April 20, 1815. 
 
 LRTTEIi FROM THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY TO COM. 
 
 DECATUR. 
 
 Sir, JVavy Department, April 20, 1815. 
 
 In the course of official duty, it is my highest sat- 
 isfaction to render justice to the gallantry and good 
 conduct of the brave officers and seamen of the United 
 States navy. 
 
 In giving an official sanction to the recent proceed- 
 ings of the court of inquiry, instituted at your request, 
 to investigate the cause of the loss by capture of the 
 frigate President, late of the navy of the United 
 States, while under your command ; and to inquire 
 into the conduct of the commander, officers, and crew 
 of said frigate, before and after the surrender to the 
 enemy ; it would be equally unjust to your merit, as 
 well as to my sentiments and feeling, to pass over this 
 investigation with a formal approbation. I have there- 
 fore, sir, to express to you, in the fullest manner, the 
 high sense of approbation, which the President of the 
 United States and this department entertain for your 
 j)rofessional character as an officer, who, in every in- 
 stance has added lustre to the stars of the union ; and 
 whose brilliant actions have raised the national honor 
 and fame, even in the moment of surrendering your 
 ship to an enemy's squadron of vastly superior force, 
 over whose attack, singly, you were decidedly trium- 
 phant ; and you will be pleased to present to each of 
 your gallant officers and crew, the thanks of your 
 government, for their brave defence of the ship, and 
 the flag of the United States. 
 
^ 
 
 17i NAVAL MOiNUMF.NT 
 
 The proceedings and opinions of the court of inqui- 
 ry, of which Com. Ah^xander IMurray is president, 
 are apt)roved. 
 
 B. W. CROWNINGSIIIELI). 
 
 Corn. Stephen Decatur. 
 
 CONSTITUTION AND CYANE Sl LEVxVNT. 
 
 » 
 
 LETTER FROM LIEUT. HOFFMAN TO THE SECRETAFtY OF 
 
 THE INAVY. 
 
 His Britannic Majesty's late ship Cyane. 
 Sir, JVew-York, April 10, 1815. 
 
 I have the honor to inform you that on the evening 
 of the 28th of February last, while cruising off Ma- 
 deira, the United States frigate Constitution fell in 
 with His Britannic Majesty's ships Cyane and Le- 
 vant, which she captured after an action of 40 min- 
 utes. 
 
 The Cijane is a frigate built ship, mounting 34 car- 
 riage guns, viz. twenty-two 321b. carronades on the 
 main deck, eight 181b. carronades on the quarter deck, 
 two 181b. carronades and two long 9s on the forecas- 
 tle, and from the best information I could obtain, car- 
 rying a complement of 175 men, commanded by '"♦►r- 
 don Falcon, Esq.: the Levant mounting twenty-one 
 carriage guns, viz. eighteen 241b. carronades, two 
 long 6s and a shifting 12 pounder on the top-gal- 
 lant forecastle, with a complement of 150 men, com- 
 manded by the Hon. George Douglas — both ships 
 suffered severely in their spars, rigging and sails. 
 The Constitution received but trifling injury, having 
 only 4 men killed and 10 wounded. As to the loss 
 of the enemy, I cannot possibly ascertain, but should 
 presume it was very severe. 
 
 On the 9th of March the Constitution, with her 
 two prizes in couipany, anchored.off the Isle of May, 
 (one of the Cape de Verd Islands.) On the 10th at 
 5 A. M. got under way and made sail for St. Jago, 
 
mm I 
 
 m 
 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 175 
 
 where we anchored at 45 minutes past 10. On the 
 12th, at half past meridian, discovered three sail in the 
 olhn^ — at 10 minutes past 1, made them to be frigates 
 — at which time the Constitution made signal to get 
 under way. At 20 minutes past 1, cut our cable and 
 made sail to the southward and eastward, close on a 
 wind. At 30 minutes past 1, the forts on shore com- 
 menced firing on us. At 2, the Constitution made 
 signal to tack, which I did to the northward and west- 
 ward. At 5 minutes past 2, the sternmost frigate 
 commenced firing on us, and hoisted English colors, 
 distance about 2 miles. At 20 ininufes past 2, lost 
 sight of the Constitution and Levant, who were stan- 
 ding on a wind to the southward and eastward ; the 
 frigates in chase. At 35 minutes past 2, lost sight of 
 the enemy. At 3, heard a heavy cannonading, which 
 continued at intervals until half past 4. At sun-down 
 shaped my course for the United States. For the 
 further particulars of our cruise, I beg to refer you to 
 Capt. Stewart's official account, on his arrival in the 
 United States. 
 
 I cannot conclude my letter without particularly 
 recommending to your notice Midshipman Joseph 
 Cross, for whose unremitted attention and exertions I 
 feel myself greatly indebted ; and he is a young man 
 who, I think, would do honor to a commission. 
 
 As to Midshipmen James Delany, and James F. 
 Curtis, and the few men I have under mv command, 
 words would be insufficient to express my gratitude 
 towards them. Very respectfully, 
 
 I have the honor to be, 
 your obedient servant, 
 B. V. HOFFMAN. 
 
 COPY OF A LETTER FROM LIEUT. BALLARD TO THE SEC- 
 RETARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 Sir, Boltimore, May 2, 1815. 
 
 I have the honor to make known to you my arrival 
 at this place with a part of the officers and crew of the 
 United States frigate Constitution, captured in a prize, 
 
17G NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 the Levant^ in the li.-irbor of Port-Pra\ a, in ihe Isl- 
 and of Sr. Jago, by a squadron of his Britaiinc Ma- 
 jesty's ships, consisting of the J^eandcr, Sir George 
 Collier ; the jyeivcasile. Lord George Stuart ; and 
 the Acasta, Capt. Kerr. For the particulars of my 
 recapture, I beg leave to refer you to the enclosed ex- 
 tract from the log-book of the Levant. 
 
 Having caused the destruction of my own papers, 
 as well as those of the officers with me, I can only say 
 to you relative to the Constitution, that, afier leaving 
 the j)ort of Boston, she successively cruised olT the 
 Islands of Bermuda and Madeira, in the Bay of Bis- 
 cay, and for some time in sight of the Rock of Lis- 
 bon, without having met with but two of the enemy's 
 vessels, one of which was destroyed, the other ordered 
 in; and that, on the evening of the 20th Fel)ruary, 
 the Island of Madeira bearing W. S. W. distant 70 
 leagues, fell in with, engaged, and after a close ac- 
 tion of 40 minutes, captured his Britannic Majesty's 
 ships Cyanc, Capt. Gordon Falcon, and Levant', Hon. 
 Capt. Douglass. 
 
 It would, sir, he deemed presumption in me to at- 
 tempt to give you particular details respecting the na- 
 ture of this action. I shall, therefore, only remark 
 generally, that every oflicer, seaman and marine on 
 board did their dutv. I cannot, however, denv mv- 
 self the pleasure, that this opj)ortunity affords me, of 
 noticing the brilliant management of Capt. Charles 
 Stewart, through whose unerring judgment every at- 
 tempt of an ingenious enemy to gain a raking position 
 was frustrated. 
 
 I have the honor to be, very respectfully, 
 
 Sir, your obedient servant, 
 HENRY E. BALLARD. 
 
 The Cynne mounted on her main deck twenty-two 
 321b. carronades — on her upper decks, ten 181b. car- 
 ronades, two long 9s, and one 121b. carronade on a 
 travelling carriage, with a complement of 175 men. 
 The Levant mounted eighteen 32lb. carronades, two 
 
>'AVAL MONUMENT. 177 
 
 long 9s, r^Tid one 121b. caironade, with 13S men on 
 board. The Consiilution hm\ 4 killed and 10 wound- 
 ed — the Cyane 7 killed and 17 wounded — the Levant 
 9 killed and 17 wounded. 
 
 COPY OF A LETTER FROM CAPTAIN STEWART TO THi: 
 SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 Sir, U. S. Frigate (Constitution, May — , 1815. 
 
 On the 20th of February last, the Island of Ma- 
 deira bearing about W. S. W. distant GO leagues, we 
 fell in with His Britannic Majesty's two ships of war, 
 the Cyane and Levant, and brought them to action 
 about 6 o'clock in the evening, both of which, after a 
 spirited engagement of 40 minutes, surrendered to the 
 ship under my command. 
 
 Considering the advantages derived by the enemy, 
 from a divided and more active force, as also their 
 superiority in the weight and number of guns, I deem 
 the speedy and decisive result of this action the stron- 
 gest assurance which can be given to the government, 
 that all under my command did their duty, and gal- 
 lantry supported tiie reputation of American seamen. 
 
 Enclosed you will receive the minutes of the action, 
 and a list of the killed and wounded on board this 
 ship ; also enclosed you will receive for your infor- 
 mation a statement of the actual force of the enemy, 
 and the number killed and wounded on board their 
 ships, as near as could be ascertained, 
 
 I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, 
 
 Sir, your most obedient servant, 
 CHARLES STEWART. 
 
 Statement of the actual force of His Eritannic Maj- 
 esty's ships Levant, Capt. the Hon. George Doug- 
 lass commander — and Cyane, Capt. Gordon Falcon 
 commander ; with the number killed and icounded 
 on board each ship, on the 20th Feb. 1815, as near 
 as could be ascertained, while engaged uith the 
 United States Frigate Constitution : — 
 
 Levant — Eiohteen 32 pounders, carronades , one 
 23 
 
178 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 12 pounder, do.; two 9 pounders, long guns. Total 
 21 guns, 156 officers, seamen, and marines. Prison- 
 ers, 133 officers, seamen and marines. Killed, 23 : 
 ivounded, 16. Total killed and wounded, 39. 
 
 Cyrrue — Twetity-two 32 pounders, carronades ; ten 
 18 pounders, do.; two 12 pounders, long guns. Total 
 34 guns (besides 2 brass s\^^vels,) ISO officers, sea- 
 men, and marines. Prisoners, 188 ofTicerb, seamen, 
 and marines. Killed, 27 ; wounded, 26. Total kil- 
 led and wounded, 38. 
 
 Minutes of the action hetivecn the United States fris;- 
 ate Constitution and His Majesty's ships Cyane 
 and Levant, on the 20th February, 1815. 
 
 Commences witb light breezes from the east, and 
 cloudy weather. At 1 P. M. discovered a sail two 
 points on the larboard bow — hauled up, and made sail 
 in chase. At half past 1, made the sail to be a ship ; 
 at half past 1, discovered another sail ahead ; made 
 them out, at 2, to be both ships, standing close haul- 
 ed, with their starboard tacks on board ; at 4, the 
 weathermost ship made signals, and bore up for her 
 consort, then about ten miles to leeward ; we bore up 
 after her, and set lower top-mast, top-gallant and 
 royal studding sails, in chase ; at half past 4, carried 
 away our main royal-mast ; took in the sails, and got 
 i;nother prepared. At 5, commenced firing on th? 
 chase from our two larl)oard bow guns ; our shot fal- 
 ling short, ceased firing ; at half past 5, finding it 
 impossible to prevent their junction, cleared shij) for 
 action, then about 4 miles from the two ships : at 40 
 mnujtes past 5, they passed within hail of each other, 
 and liaiiled by the \vind on the starboard tack, hauled 
 up their courses, and pre|)ared to receive us : at 45 min- 
 utes past 5, they made all sail close hauled by the win(], 
 in hopes of getting to windward of us : at 55 miniUcs 
 past 5, finding th(>mselves disappointed in their object, 
 and we were closing with them fast, thev shorfentd 
 sail, and tbrmed on a line of wind, about half a cable's 
 lengtii of each other : at 6, having them under com- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 179 
 
 mand of our battery, hoisted our colors, which was 
 answered by both ships hoisting Enghsh ensigns : at 
 5 ininuics past 6, ranged up on the starboard side of 
 5 he sterjimost ship, about 300 yards distant, and com- 
 inenced the action by broadsides, both ships returning 
 our fire with great spirit for about 15 minutes ; then 
 1 he fire of the enemy beginning to slacken, and the great 
 column of smoke collected under our lee, induced us 
 to cease our fire to ascertain their positions and condi- 
 tions : in about three minutes, the smoke clearing 
 away, we found ourselves abreast of the headmost 
 ship, the sternmost ship luffed up for our larboard 
 quarter ; we poured a broadside into the headmost 
 ship, and then braced aback our main and mizen top- 
 sails, and backed astern under cover of the smoke, 
 abreast the sternmost ship, when the action was con- 
 tinued with spirit and considerable eff*ect, until 35 min- 
 utes past 6, when the enemy's fire again slackened, and 
 we discovered the headmost ship bearing up ; filled our 
 top-sails, shot ahead, and gave her two stern rakes; we 
 then discovered the sternmost ship wearing also ; wore 
 ship immediately after her, and gave her a stern rake — 
 she luffed to on our starboard bows, and gave us her 
 larboard broadside : we ranged up on her larboard 
 quarter, within hail, and were about to give her our 
 starboard broadside, when she struck her colors, fired 
 a lee gun, and yielded. At 50 minutes past 6, took 
 possession of His 3Iajesty's ship Cijane, Capt. Gordon 
 Falcon, mounting 34 guns. At 8, filled away after 
 her consort, which was still in sight to leeward. At 
 A past 8, found her standing towards us, with her star- 
 board tacks close hauled, with top-gallant sails set, 
 and colors flying. At 5 minutes past 8, rapged close 
 along side to windward of her, on opposite tacks, and 
 exchanged broadsides — wore immediately under her 
 stern, and raked her with a broadside : she then crowd- 
 ed all sail, and endeavored to escape by running— haul- 
 ed on board our tacks, set spanker, and flying jib in 
 chase. At h past 9, commenced firing on her from our 
 starboard bow chaser ; ga;ve her several shot, which 
 
180 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 cut hor spars and rigging considerably. At !0, find- 
 ing she could not escape, fired a gun, struck Iior col 
 ors, and yielded. We immediately took possession 
 of His Majesty's ship Levant, Hon. Capt. Ceorgo 
 Douglass, mounting 21 guns. At 1 A. JNI. the dam- 
 ages of our rigging were repaired, sails shifed, and the 
 ship in fighting condition. 
 
 Minutes of the chase of the U. S. frii^ate Consfifuiion, 
 bif an English squadron of three ships, from out 
 tiie harbor af Port Praya, Island of St. Ja;go : — 
 
 Commences with fresh breezes and thick foasfv 
 weather. At 5 minutes past 12, discovered a large 
 ship through the fog, standing in for Port Praya. At 
 8 miimtes past 12, discovered two other large ships 
 astern of her, also standing in for the port. From 
 their general a])pearance supposed them to be one of 
 the enemy's squadrons, and from the little respect 
 hitherto paid by them to neutral waters, I deemed it 
 most prudent to put to sea. The signal was made to 
 the Cyane and Levant to get under way. At 12 min- 
 utes past 12, with our toi)sails set, we cut our cable 
 and got under way, (when the Portuguese op(^ned a 
 fire on us from several of their batteries on shore) the 
 prize ships following our motions, and stood out of the 
 harbor of Port Praya, close under East Point, passing 
 the enemy's squadron about gun shot to windward of 
 thein ; crossed our top gallant yards, and set foresail, 
 mainsail, spanker, fiyiug-jib and top-gallant sails. 
 The e!iemy seeing us under way, tacked ship and made 
 all sail in chase of us. As far as we could judge of 
 the rates, from the thickness of the weather, suppos- 
 ed them two ships of the line and one frigate. At ^ 
 past 12, cut away the boats towing astern — first cut- 
 ter arul ffijr. At 1 P. M. found our sailiuir about 
 
 Or? 
 
 equal with the ships on our lee quarter, but tlu^ frigate 
 lulling up, gaining our wake and rather (Iroi)ping as- 
 tern of us ; findin<r the Cyane dropping astern and to 
 leeward, ajid the frigate gaining on her fast, 1 foimd 
 it impossible to save her if she contiiuied on (he same 
 
>AVAL MONCSrENT. ISl 
 
 course, witlmut having the C onst U ution hrou ght io mic- 
 tion by their whole force. I made the signal at 10 
 minutes past ], to her to ta:ik ship, which was com- 
 plied with. This manoeuvre, I conceived, would de- 
 tach one of the enemy's ships in pursuit of her, while 
 at the same time, from her position, she would be ena- 
 bled to reach the anchorage at Port Praya, before the 
 detached ship couhl come up with her ; but if thej 
 did not tack after her, it would afford her an opportu- 
 nity to double their rear, and make her escape before 
 the wind. They all continued in full chase of the 
 Levant and this ship ; the ship on our lee quarter fir- 
 ing broadsides, by divisions — her shot falling short of 
 us. At 3, by our having dropped the Levant consid- 
 erably, her situation became (from the position of the 
 enemy's frigate) similar to the Cyane. It became 
 necessary to separate also from the Levant, or risk 
 this ship being brought to action to cover her. I made 
 the signal at 5 minutes past 3, for her to tack, which 
 was complied with. At 12 minutes past 3, the whole 
 of the enemy's squadron tacked in pursuit of the Le- 
 vant, and gave up the pursuit of this ship. This sac- 
 rifice of the Levant became necessary for the preser- 
 vation of the Constitution. Sailing Master Hixon, 
 Midshipman Varnum, one boatswain's mate, and 12 
 men, were absent on duty in the 5th cutter, to bring 
 the cartel brig under our stern. 
 
 AiXECDOTES. 
 
 The Constitution is so deservedly a favorite with 
 the public, that a few anecdotes of her last cruise will 
 not be uninteresting. The modest, plain letter of 
 Capt. Stewart, with the accompanying extracts from 
 the log-book, have given the clearest official accounts 
 of the action. The masterly manoeuvreing of liis 
 ship so as to prevent either of the enemy's ships from 
 raking him, and the final capture of them bo'h, in 
 such a neat and workmanlike manner, the prompt de- 
 cision at Port Praya, when in 7 minutes af or the 
 British squadron were first discovered, the whole of 
 
182 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 the ships had cut their cables and were at sea ; tho 
 judgment in the time of giving orders to the prizes to 
 tack, which secured the Cyane first, and afterwards 
 the Constitution, speak for themselves, and are fully 
 appreciated by the public. It should not be forgot- 
 ten, that this same Cyane engaged a French 44 gup. 
 frigate last year, and kept her at bay, till a ship of 
 the line came up and captured her ; and a few years 
 since in the bay of Naples, that she engaged a frigate, 
 a brig of 14 guns, and five gun boats, and beat them 
 off, for which Capt. Benton, who commanded her, was 
 knighted ; yet, with the known skill of British officers, 
 this same vessel, and a sloop of war of the largest 
 class, with full crews of picked men, were captured 
 by an American frigate, after a short action. 
 
 But it is not only to skilful officers that praise is 
 due ; to be successful, they must be aided by brave and 
 excellent seamen. The crew of the Constitution were 
 all yankee seamen, as docile and obedient to the ordi- 
 nary discipline of the service, as they were intrepid in 
 action. It would be easy to mention a number of an- 
 ecdotes of the heroic character of our common sailors. 
 There are two in this action that are particularly 
 striking. A man by the name of Tobias Fernall, of 
 Portsmouth, had his arm shattered by a ball •; after 
 the surgeon had amputated it, when he had taken up 
 the arteries, and before the (h-essing was completed, 
 the cheers on deck were heard for the surrender of 
 the Cyane ; the brave fellow twitched the bleeding 
 stump from the surgeon, and waved it, joining the 
 cheers ! He is since dead. Another, Jolm Lancey, 
 of Cape Ann, was brought below, one thigh shattered 
 to pieces, and the other severely wounded ; the sur- 
 geon said to him, "my brave fellow, you are mortally 
 wounded ;" "yes, sir, I know it, I only want to hear, 
 that the other ship has struck." Soon after the cheers 
 were given for the surrender of the Levant ; he rais- 
 ed his head, echoed the cheer, and expired a minute 
 after. The wounds were genera II v severe ; and much 
 credit is due to the skill and humanity of Mr. Kear- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 183 
 
 ney, the surgeon, for saving so many of the wounded. 
 
 The Cyane was first discovered at the distance of 
 three or four leagues : the Levant, Cap. Douglass, 
 the seinour, being to the leeward. The first signal 
 from the Cyane was, that it was an American sloop of 
 war ; afterwards, when they came within four miles 
 of the Constitution, and the course was so altered, that 
 sho discovered her broadside, she made a signal that 
 tt was a heavy American frigate, superior to one of 
 them but inferior to both. The signal from the Le- 
 vant to her consort was, to join company. The Con- 
 stitution was not able to prevent their junction. The 
 action was invented on the part of the Constitution, 
 by firing a signal shot across the bow of the Cyane. 
 The two ships cheered, and fired their broadsides : af- 
 ter receiving both she returned it, and such was the 
 eagernes of the men to fire, that when the word was 
 given, they discharged the whole broadside, at the 
 same instant. In commencing the action, there was 
 perfect silence on board the Constitution — the cheers 
 were returned when the ships surrendered. The 
 weight shot fired by the British ships, was superior by 
 about 99 pounds, taking their shot, at their nominal 
 weight, though it was found, on weighing some of the 
 English shot, that came on board, that they weighed 
 full 321bs. while the American of the same rate weigh- 
 ed only 291bs. ; the action was so close, that their 
 carronades had their full power. One of their shot 
 came through the side of the ship, killed one and 
 wonnded four men, and lodged in the galley ; another 
 killad two men in the waist, went through a boat in 
 wliich two tigers were chained, and lodged in the head 
 of a spar in the chains. In the action of the Guer- 
 riere the Constitution was hulled three times ; in thai 
 of the Java, four times ; and in this engagement, thir- 
 teen times. The British ships were fully officered, 
 and manned with picked men, and fired better than 
 they have usuly done in their engagements with our 
 ships. 
 
 During the chase bv Sir trrorge Collier's squadron, 
 
1H4 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 when the Cynne was ordered to tack, all the three 
 ships kept after the Constitution and Levant. At\cx 
 sufficient time had been allowed to the CyaneXo make 
 her escape, as none of the enemy pursued her, orders 
 were given to the Levant to tack. The Leander, Sir 
 George Collier, who was the most astern, then made 
 signal to the. Acasta to tack, and the jYeivcastlc, Lord 
 George Stewart, to continue the chase. The Acasta 
 sailed faster than the Constitution, and was gaining on 
 her ; the JVeiucastle about the same rate of sailing, and 
 tlie latter fired several broadsides, but the shot fell short 
 from one to two hundred yards. After the other ships 
 tacked, the JS'ewcastle made a signal that her fore-top- 
 sail yard was sprung, and tacked also. The British 
 officers on board, who had expressed the most perfect 
 confidence that the Constitution would be taken in an 
 hour, felt the greatest vexation and disappointment, 
 which they expressed in very emphatic terms. The 
 Levant ran into port so as to run her jib-boom over 
 the battery ; the Jlcasta and JS'ewcastle came in, and 
 though her colors were hauled down, fired at her a 
 number of times. They were obliged to hoist and 
 lower their colors twice; yet not a gun was fired from 
 the Levant. Lieut. I5allard, who commanded, had 
 ordered his men to lay on the decks, by which they 
 all escaped injury, though considerable damage was 
 done to the town. It seemed unnecessary for two 
 heavy frigates to fire into one sloop of war, who neith- 
 er did nor could make any resistance. After tbe es- 
 cape of the Constitution from this squadron, till she 
 arrived at the Brazils, the greatest watchfulness was 
 necessary. With a wsy diminished crew, she had on 
 board 210 prisoners, and the number of British offi- 
 cers was more than double her own. 
 
 It is known, that sailors are apt to be superstitious. 
 Lieut. Holfman had a fine terrier, who was a great fa- 
 vorite on board the ship : when he was transferred to 
 the Cijiri'', he took the dog with him. At Port 
 Fraya, the; doir, being much attached to Old Iron- 
 sides, ju iiped over to swim to her. A boat was low- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 185 
 
 dri'A down from the Constitution to try to save him; 
 but the poor animal was drowned. The sailors then 
 said, that they should have a fight, or a run, in twen- 
 ty-four hours. The next morning the British squad- 
 ron hove in sight. This was not likely to lessen their 
 belief in omens. 
 
 At 3Iaranham, all the principal people asked leave 
 to visit the Constitution. They had heard much of 
 her, and had been told by the English, that she was a 
 ship of the line. They were requested to examine 
 and count her guns, which they found to be 52, as she 
 carried two less than in her former cruise. The 
 American character was most highly respected at 
 Porto-Rico, where a boat was sent in. The gover- 
 nor made the most earnest entreaties, that the ship 
 would come into port, that he might see her, and ofTer- 
 ered every kind of refreshment, and expressed the 
 highest regard for our country. How much has our 
 little navy done to elevate the character of the nation 1 
 
 In a hurricane, when the ship made much water , a 
 petty officer called on Lieut. Shubrick, who was the 
 officer on the deck, and said, " Sir, the ship is sink- 
 ing " — "well, sir," said this cool and gallant officer, 
 " as every thing in our power is made tight, we must 
 patiently submit to the fate of sailors, and all of us 
 sink or swim together." 
 
 When the officer from the British squadron, which 
 retook the Levant, went on board of her he advanced 
 briskly towards the quarter deck, and observed that he 
 presumed he had the proud satisfaction of receiving 
 the sword of Capt. Blakeley, commander of the 
 American sloop of war the Wasp. No, sir, was the 
 reply ; but if there is any pride in the case, you have 
 the honor of receiving the sword of Capt. Ballard, 1st 
 of the Constitution frigate, and now prize officer of 
 his Britannic Majesty's ship the Levant. 
 
 According to the British mode of calculation, th« 
 Constitution ought to have been captured. Tho 
 Cyane and Levant could discharge from all their can- 
 
 24 
 
1S6 NAVrL MONUMENT. 
 
 non at once, 15141bs. of shot The Constitution 1 4.2 1 
 Difference, 90!bs. 
 
 The Constitution has captured, in her three victo- 
 ries, 154 gun carriages ; made upwards of 900 pris- 
 oners ; killed and wounded 298 of the enemy ; and 
 the value of property captured, including the stores, 
 provisions, &.c. cannot be estimated at less than 
 1,500,000. 
 
 The first escape of the Constitution in 1812, Avas 
 from a British squadron, consisting of the .y^Hcf/n 64, 
 Shannon, 38, Gucrriere 38, Belvidier 38, and JEolus 
 32. The chase continued 51 hours. Her last escape 
 was from the Leander 50, Kewcustle 50, and Jicds- 
 ta 40. 
 
 In J 804, the Constitution made several darmg at- 
 tacks on the batteries before the town Tropoli, moun- 
 ting 115 pieces of heavy cannon. She repeatedly, 
 and for hours, (iigaged their forts, within musket shot, 
 and her bold movements and destructive lire most es- 
 sentially assisted in wresting from captivity 300 of our 
 countrymen, as the Bashaw was compelled to sub- 
 mit to terms of peace. 
 
 HORNET AND PENGUIN. • 
 
 COPY OF A LliTTEll IKO.M ( Al'r. UIDULE TO COM. DE" 
 
 CArUll. 
 
 United States Sloop Hornet off Trisfand' Acuna, 
 Siu, March 25, 1815. 
 
 1 have the honor to inform you, that on the morning 
 of ihe23d inst. at half past 10, when about to anchor 
 off' the north end of the Islnnd of Tristan d' Acuna, 
 a sail was socmi to sothored and eastward steering to 
 the westward, the wind fresli from S. S. W. In a 
 few minutes she had passed on to the westward so 
 far that we could not see her for the land. I inunedi- 
 ately made sail for the westward and shortly after Get- 
 ting in sigh of her again perceived her to bear up 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 187 
 
 before the wind. When she had approach^ near, I 
 filled the main-top-sail, and continued to yaw the ship, 
 while she continued to come down, wearing occasion- 
 ally to prevent her passing under our stern. At 10 
 minutes past 1 P. M. being within nearly musket shot 
 distance, she hauled her wind on the starboard tack, 
 hoisted English colors and fired a gun. ^Ve imme- 
 diately luffed to, hoisted our ensign, and gave the en- 
 emy a broadside. The action being thus commenced, 
 a quick and well directed fire was kept up from this 
 ship, the enemy gradually drifting nearer to us, when 
 at 55 minutes past 1, he bore up apparently to run us 
 on board. As soon as I perceived he would certainly 
 fall on board, I called the boarders so as lobe ready 
 to repel any attempt to board us. At the instant eve- 
 ery officer and man repaired to the quarter deck, when 
 the two vessels were coming in contact, and eagerly 
 pressed me to permit them to board the enemy ; but 
 this I would not permit, as it was evident from the 
 commencement of the action, that our fire was great- 
 ly superior both in quickness and in effect. The ene- 
 my's bowsprit came in between our main and mizzen 
 rigging, on our starboard side, affording him an oppor- 
 tunity to board us, if such was his design ; but no at- 
 tempt was made. There was a considerable swell 
 on, and as the sea lifted us ahead, the enemy's bow- 
 sprit carried away our mizzen shrouds, stern davits, 
 and spanker boom, and he hung upon our larboard 
 quarter. At this moment an officer who was after- 
 wards recognized to be Mr. M' Donald, the 1st heu- 
 tenant and the then commanding officer, called out 
 that they had surrendered. I directed the marines 
 and musketry-men to cease firing, and while on the 
 taffril, asking if they had surrendered, I received a 
 wound in the neck. The enemy just then got clear 
 of us, and his fore-mast and bowsprit being both gone, 
 and perceiving us wearing to give him a fresh broad- 
 side, he again called out, that he had surrendered. 
 It was with diflficulty I could restrain my crew from 
 firing into him again, as he had certainly fired into us 
 
188 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 after having surrendered. From the firing of the first 
 gun, to the last time the enemy cried out he had sur- 
 rendered, was exactly twenty-two minutes by the 
 watch. She proved to be His Britannic Majesty's 
 brig Penguin, mounting sixteen 321b. carronades, two 
 long 12s, a 121b. carronade on the top-gallant fore-cas- 
 tle, with a swivel on the capstern in the tops. She 
 had a spare port forward, so as to fight both her long 
 guns of a side. She sailed from England in Septem- 
 ber last. She was shorter upon deck than this ship 
 by two feet, but she had a greater length of keel, 
 greater breadth of beam, thicker sides, and higher 
 bulwarks than this ship, and was in all respects a re- 
 markably fine vessel of her class. The enemy ac- 
 knowledged a complement of 132 ; 12 of them super- 
 numerary marines from the Medway 74, received on 
 board in consequence of their being ordered to cruise 
 for the American privateer Young Wasp. They ac- 
 knowledge also a loss of 14 killed and 28 wounded ; 
 but Mr. Mayo, who was in charge of the prize, assures 
 me, that the number of killed was certainly greater. 
 Among the killed are Capt. Dickenson, who fell at 
 the close of the action, and the boatswain ; among 
 the wounded are the 2d lieutenant, purser, and two 
 midshipmen. Each of the midshipmen lost a leg. 
 We received on board, in all, 1 18 prisoners, 4 of whom 
 have since died of their wounds. Having removed 
 the prisoners, and taken on board such provisions and 
 stores as would be useful to us I scuttled the Penguin, 
 this morning, before day light, and she went down. 
 As she was completely riddled by our shot, her fore- 
 mast and bowsprit both gone, and her mainmast so 
 crippled as to be incapable of being secured, it seem- 
 ed inadvisable, at this distance from home, to attempt 
 sending her to the United States. 
 
 This ship did not receive a single round shot in her 
 hull, nor any material wound in her spars ; the rig- 
 ging, and sails were very much cut ; but having bent 
 a new suit of sails, and knotted and secured our rig- 
 ging, we are now completely ready in all respects, lor 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 189 
 
 any service. We were eight men short of a comple- 
 ment, and had 9 upon the sick hst the morning of the 
 action. 
 
 Enclosed is a list of killed and wounded. I lament 
 to state, that Lieut. Conner is wounded dangerously. 
 I feel great solicitude on his account, as he is an offi- 
 cer of much promise, and his loss would be a serious 
 loss to the service. 
 
 It is a most pleasing part of my duty to acquaint 
 you, that the conduct of Lieutenants Conner and 
 Newton, Mr. Mayo, Acting Lieut. Brownlow of the 
 marines, Sailing Master Rommey, and the other offi- 
 cers, seamen, and marines, I have the honor to com- 
 mand, was in the highest degree creditable to them, 
 and calls for mv warmest recommendation. I cannot 
 indeed do justice to their merits. The satisfaction 
 which was diffused throughout the ship, when it was 
 ascertained, that the stranger was an enemy's sloop of 
 war, and the alacrity with which every one repaired 
 to his quarters, fully assured me, that their conduct in 
 action would be marked with coolness and intrepidity. 
 I have the honor to be, 
 
 your obedient servant, 
 
 J. BIDDLE. 
 Lesson board the Hornet, 1 killed and 11 wounded. 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM AN OFFICER ON BOARD 
 THE SLOOP OF WAR PEACOCK OFF TRISTAN d' ACUNA. 
 
 April, 10, 1815. 
 
 The Honied separated in chase, two days out, and 
 we fell in, off here, a few days since. We were de- 
 lighted to hear of her good fortune — so superior to 
 our own. She had captured, two days previous. His 
 Britannic Majesty's brig Penguin, after an action of 
 20 i minutes. The Penguin was fitted out by Admi- 
 ral Tyler at the Cape of Good Hope, expressly to 
 capture the privateer Young JVasp, who had captured 
 an Indiaman in that neighborhood, and landed the 
 prisoners ; and was supposed to have brought her 
 prize here to strip her and to refresh. The Ptni;uin 
 
190 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 was commanded by Capt. Dickenson, a distinguished 
 yonng man in their chronicles : and it appears from 
 some of his papers, of respectable connexions, and a 
 great favorite in the navy. 
 
 A<hiiiral Tyler loaned him 12 marines from the 
 Mediv/iy, and was very minute in his instructions, and 
 grave to a degree, in his injunctions, upon Dickenson, 
 as to the manner of engaging the privateer : to get 
 close enough was the great desideratum. What a 
 man seeks earnestlv he is almost sure to find, and 
 Capt. Dickenson suj)posed he had the Wasp, when he 
 only saiv the Hornet, a vessel considerably smaller in 
 all her dimensions, and decidedly inferior in her arma- 
 ment to the privateer. The Hornet, on perceiving that 
 the brig bore up for her, laid all aback ; the brig came 
 stern on, lest the Hornet, might discover her guns 
 and be off, and brushing close along side of her, fired 
 a gun, and run up her St. George. An entire broad- 
 side from the Hornet, every shot of which told, open- 
 ed the eyes of John Bull upon a yankee man of war: 
 just what they had been wishing ever since they left 
 England. In 20 minutes the Penguin had her fore- 
 mast over the side — her bowsprit in two pieces — her 
 broadside nearly driven in — 20 men killed, including 
 the captain, and one of Lord Nelson's boatswains, 
 and 35 wounded, including the second lieutenant, 2 
 midshipmen, and master's mate, Slc. The Hornet, 
 untouched in her hull, was severely cut up in her 
 rigging, especially about her main and fore-top-gallant 
 masts, her mizzen being a vast deal to low for British 
 gunnery — one marine killed, the captain and 1st Lieu- 
 tenant Conner, (severally) and 9 others wounded. The 
 officers of the Penguin ascribed their misfortune en- 
 tir(;ly to the superiority of the men belonging to the 
 Hornet ; and have repeatedly said, they would be glad 
 to tiy it again with her, if the Penguin were manned 
 with such men. 
 
 Now these gentlemen left England last September, 
 and the prisoners are as si out, fine looking fellows, as 
 I ever saw. One fact, which is probable, is worth all 
 
NAVAL MO>'UME>T IH] 
 
 SP»»cw?ntion in such an inquiry. On examining her 
 guns after the action, a 321b, carronade, on the side 
 engaged, was found with his tonipion as nicely puttied 
 an(i sto|)ped in as it was the day she left Spithead ! — 
 Capt. Dickenson, towards the close of the fight, told 
 his 1st lieutenant, M' Donald, that "the fellows are 
 giving it to us like hell , we must get on board :" and 
 on being asked by Biddle why he did not, as there 
 never had been a better opportunity — he said, "he did 
 try, but found the men rather backward — and so, you 
 know, we concluded to give it up." After M'Donald 
 had repeatedly called out that they had surrendered, 
 and Biddle had ceased his fire, two fellows on board 
 the Penguin fired upon him and the man at the wheel. 
 Biddle was struck on the chin, and the ball passing 
 round the neck, went oflf through the cape of his sur- 
 tout, wounded him, however, severely, but not dan- 
 gerously ; the man escaped but the ruffians did not, 
 for they were observed by two of Biddle's marines, 
 who levelled and laid them dead upon the deck in an 
 instant. 
 
 ANECDOTES. 
 
 In this action a private marine of the Hornet, nam- 
 ed Michael Smith (who had served under the gallant 
 Porter in the Essex) received a shot through the upper 
 part of the thigh, which fractured the bone, and near- 
 ly at the same moment had the same thigh broken im- 
 mediately above the knee by the spanker boom of the 
 Hornet, which was carried away by the enemy's bow- 
 sprit, while afoul of her. In this situation, while 
 bleeding upon the deck and unable to rise, he was 
 seen to make exertions to discharge his musket at the 
 enemy on the top-gallant forecastle of the Penguin — 
 this, however the poor fellow was unable to accom- 
 plish ; and was compelled to be carried below. 
 
 The officers of the Penguin relate, that, during the 
 action with the Hornet, a 321b, shot came in at the 
 after port of the Penguin, on the larboard side, car- 
 ried away six legs, killed the oowder boy of the di- 
 
192 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 vision, capsized the opposite gun on llie starboard 
 side, [)assed tlirougli the port, and " sunii ni sullen m 
 lence to tlie bottom." 
 
 ESCAPE OF THE HORNET. 
 
 copy OF A LETTEK FROM CAPT. BIDDLE TO COM. DE- 
 CATUR. 
 
 Sir, U. S. Sloop Hornet, St. Salvador, June 10,1815. 
 I HAVE the honor to report, that the Peacock and 
 this ship, having continued off Tristan d' Acuna the 
 number of days directed by you in your letter of in- 
 structions, proceeded in company to the eastward on 
 the 12th of April, bound to the second place of ren- 
 dezvous. Nothing of any importance occurred to us 
 until the 27th of April, when at 7 A. M. in lat. 38° 
 30' S. and Ion. 33' E. we made a strange sail in the 
 S. E. to which we gave chase. The wind was from 
 the N. E. by N. and light throughout the day, and by 
 sundown we had neared the chase considerably. It 
 was calm during the night, and at day-light on the 
 28th, he was yet in sight. A breeze springing from 
 the N. V/. we crowded sail with steering sails on both 
 sides ; the chase standing to the northward upon a 
 wind. At 45 minutes past 2 P. M. the Peacock was 
 about six miles ahead of this ship ; and observing that 
 she appeared to be suspicious of the chase, I took in 
 starboard steering sails, and liaulcd up for the Pea- 
 cock — I was still, however, of opinion, that the chase 
 was an Indiaman, though indeed the atmosphere was 
 q ite smoky and indistinct, and I concluded, as she 
 was very large, that Capt. Warrington was waiting for 
 me to join him, that we might together go along side 
 of her. At 22 minutes past 3 P. M. the Peacock 
 made the signal, that the chase was a ship of the line, 
 and an enemy. I immediately took in all steering 
 sails, and hauled open a wind ; the enemy then uj)on 
 our lee-(puu'ter, distant about 8 miles. I5y sim-down 
 
I 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 193 
 
 I had perceived, tliat the enemy sailed remarkahly fast, 
 and was verv weatherly. 
 
 At 9 P. M. as the enemy was gaining upon us, and 
 as there was every appearance that he would he ena- 
 bled to keep sight of us during the-night, I consider- 
 ed it necessary to lighten this ship. I therefore threw 
 overboard 12 tons of kentledge, part of our shot, some 
 of our heavy spars, cut away the sheet anchor and ca- 
 ble, and started the wedges of the masts. At 2 A. 
 M. the enemy being rather before our lee-beam, I 
 tacked to the westward ; the enemy also tacked, and 
 continued in chase of us. At da}^ light on the 29th, 
 he was within gun-shot upon our lee-quarter. At 7 
 A. M. having hoisted English colors, and a rear ad- 
 miral's flag, he commenced firing from his bow guns. 
 As his shot went over us, I cut away tiie remaining 
 anchor and cable, threw overboard the launch, six of 
 our guns, more of our shot, and every heavy article 
 that was at hand ; the enemy fired ahout thirty shot, 
 not one of which took effect, though most of them 
 passed over us. While he was firing, I had the satis- 
 faction to perceive, that we slowly dropped him, ^' ■ 
 at 9 A. 31. he ceased his fire. 
 
 At 11 A. M. the enemy was again coming up wi - 
 us. I now, therefore, threw overboard all our re 
 maining guns but one long gun nearly all om* shot, 
 all our spare spars, cut away the top-gallant fore-cas- 
 tle, and cleared every thing off* deck, as well as from 
 below, to lighten as much as possible. At noon the 
 enemy again commenced firing. He fired many shot, 
 only three of which came on board ; two striking the 
 hull, and one passing through the jib. It is, however, 
 extraordinary, that, every shot did not take effect ; for 
 the enetny, tlie second time he commenced firing, 
 was cerlaiidy within three quarters of a mile of the 
 ship and the sea quite smoth. 
 
 I perceived from his sails that the effect of his fire 
 
 was to deaden his wind, and at 2 P. M. the wind 
 
 which had previously, and grately to our disadvantage, 
 
 backed to the southeast, hulled to the westward, and 
 
 ' freshened up. At sun-down the enemy was about 
 
 25 
 
194 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 four miles astern. The wind was fresh, and we went 
 at the rate of nine knots throughout the night. We saw 
 the enemy at intervals through the squalls during the 
 night and at day light, on the 30th, he was about 12 
 miles astern, stillin chase of us. At 30 minutes after 
 9 A. M. he took in steering sails, reefed his top-sail 
 and hulled to the eastward, and at 11 he was entirely 
 out of sight. 
 
 During the chase the enemy appeared to be very 
 crank, and I therefore concluded he must have been 
 lightened while in chase of us. I did not at any time 
 fire our stern chasers, because it was manifest that the 
 enemy injured his sailing by his firing. 
 
 As we had now no anchor, no cable, no boat, and 
 but one gun, there was of course an absolute necessi- 
 ty of relinquishing our intended cruise ; and as in our 
 then condition, it would have been extremely hazard- 
 ous on account of the enemy's cruisers, to approach 
 our own coast, I considered it most advisable to pro- 
 ceed for this port. I arrived here yesterday, and on 
 my arrival I received information of the peace be- 
 tween the United States and Great Britain. Permit 
 me to state, that it was with the most painful reluct- 
 ance, and upon the fullest conviction that it was in- 
 dispensable, in order to prevent a greater misfortime, 
 that I could bring my mind to consent to part with my 
 guns ; and I beg leave to request, that you will be 
 pleased to move the honorable secretary of the navy, 
 to call a court of inquiry to investigate the loss of the 
 arrangement of this ship. It will be very satisfactory 
 to me to have such an investigation. 
 ■ I have the honor to be, 
 
 respectfully, your obe't serv't. 
 
 Com. Decatur. J. BIDDLT.. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 105 
 
 JVarrative of the escape of the Hornet from a Brit- 
 ish 74, after a chase of 24 hours— extracted from 
 a private journal of one of the officers on board the 
 Hornet. 
 
 U. S. Ship Hornet, off the Cape of Good Hope, 
 
 Maij9, 1815. 
 
 ^pril 27, 1815. At 7 P. M. the Peacock made a 
 signal for a strange sail, bearing S. E. by S. We 
 immediately made all sail in chase. Friday 28lh 
 commenced with light breezes and pleasant weather, 
 all sail set in chase ; at sun down we had neared the 
 stranger considerably, when it fell perfectly calm, and 
 remained so during the whole night ; the stranger 
 ahead, and could discern his top-sails out of the water. 
 At day-light the sail not to be seen from the deck ; at . 
 5 A. M. a breeze sprung up from the N. W. we im- 
 mediately crowded all sail, in order if possible to get 
 sight of the chase again ; soon after descried him 
 standing to the northward and eastward on a wind. ^ 
 Saturday 29th, at 3-4 past 2 P. M. the Peacock was 
 about 10 miles ahead of the Hornet ; we observed 
 Capt. Warrington approaching the stranger with much 
 precaution ; we therefore took in all our larboard 
 steering-sails, set the stay-sails, and hauled up for the 
 Peacock, still under the impression the sail in sight 
 was an English Indiaman, and from the apparent con- 
 duct of the commander of the Peacock, we were un- 
 der the impression (as the ship looked very large) that 
 Capt. W. was waiting until we came up with him in 
 order to make a joint attack. At half past three, the 
 Peacock made the signal, that the chase was a line- 
 of-battle ship, and an enemy ; our astonishment may 
 easily be conceived ; we took in all steering-sails and 
 hauled upon the wind, bringing the enemy upon our 
 lee-quarter, and about 3 leagues distant ; the Peacock 
 on his weather bow and apparently not more than 3 
 miles from the enemy. At sun-down the enemy bore 
 E. half S. the Peacock E. by N. We soon perceiv- 
 ed the enemy sailed remarkably fast, but the Peacock 
 
196 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 left him running off to the eastward. The enomv 
 continued hy the wind and evidently in chase of us, 
 at 6, loosed the wedges of the lower masts ; at 8, we 
 discovered the enemy weathered upon us fast, and that 
 there was every appearance he would, if not come up 
 with us, continue in sight all night. It was thought 
 necessary to lighten the ship ; at 9 we cut away the 
 sheet-anchor, and hove overhoard the cahle, a quanti- 
 ty of rigging, spars, &.c. At half past 9, scuttled the 
 ward-room deck to get at the kentledge, hove over- 
 hoard 90 pieces, weighing about 50 tons. At 2 A. 
 M. tacked ship to the southward and westward, which 
 the enemy no sooner discovered, than he tacked also. 
 At day-light he was within shot distance, on our lee- 
 quarter ; at 7, he hoisted English colors and a rear 
 admiral's flag at his mizzen-top-gallant masthead, and 
 commenced firing from his how guns, his shot over- 
 reaching us about a mile. We therefore commenced 
 again to lighten the ship, by cutting away our remain- 
 mg anchors and throwing overboard the cable, cut up 
 the launch and hove it overboard, a quantity of pro- 
 visions with more kentledge, shot, capstern, spars, all 
 rigging, sails, guns, and in fact every heavy ariicle 
 that could possibly tend to impede the ship's sailing. 
 The enemy continued to fire very heavy and in quick 
 succession ; but his British thunder could neither ter- 
 rify the yankee spirit, (hminish yankee skill, nor com- 
 pel us to show him the yankee stripes,, whicli must 
 have irritated him excessively. i\one of his shot as 
 yet had taken effect, although he had been firing for 
 near 4 hours incessantly, his shot generally passing 
 between our masts. We thought at this period we 
 discovered that we were droj)ping him, as his shot l)e- 
 gan to fall short ; this stimulated our gallant crew to 
 fresh exertion. At 1 1, his firing ceased, and the breeze 
 began to freshen ; we discovered the enemy was again 
 coming up with us fast, which iiuluced a general be- 
 lief he had made some alteration in the trim of his 
 ship. At meridian s(pially and fresh breezes, wind 
 from the westward. Sunday (30th) fresh breezes and 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 197 
 
 squally, the enemy still gaining on the Hornet ; at 1 
 P. M. being within gun-shot distance, he commenced 
 a very spirited and heavy fire with round and grape, 
 the former passing between our masts, and the latter 
 falling all around us. The enemy fired shells, but 
 were so ill directed as to be perfectly harmless. 
 
 From 2 to 3, threw overboard all the muskets, cut- 
 lasses, forge, &c. &.C. and broke up the bell— also 
 cut up the top-gallant fore-castle. It was now our 
 capture seemed inevitable — the enemy 3-4 of a mile on 
 the lee-quarter, pouring in his shot and shells in great 
 numbers all around us — continued to lighten the ship, 
 by heaving every thing overboard that could either be 
 of service to the enemy, or an impediment to the Ilor- 
 neVs sailing. The men were ordered to lay down on 
 the quarter-deck, in order to trim ship, and to facilitate 
 the ship's sailing. At 4, one of the shot from the en- 
 emy struck the jib-boom, another struck the starboard 
 bulwark, just forward of the gangway, and a third 
 struck on the deck forward of the main hatch, on the 
 larboard side, glanced off and passed through the fore- 
 sail. At half past 4, we again began to leave the en- 
 emy, and to appearance, by magic — set the larboard 
 lower steering-sail, the wind drawing more aft. At 5 
 the enemy's shot fell short. At 6, fresh breezes — the 
 enemy hull down in our wake. At 7, could just see 
 his lower steering sail above horizon— from 8 to 12, 
 discried him at intervals, with night glasses. At day- 
 light, discovered the enemy astern of us, distant five 
 leagues. At 9 A. M. the enemy shortened sail, reefed 
 his top-sail, and hauled upon a wind to the eastward, 
 after a chase of 42 hours. During this tedious and 
 anxious chase, the wind was variable, so as to oblige 
 us to make a perfect circle round the enemy. Be- 
 tween 2 and 3 o'clock yesterday not a person on board 
 had the most distant idea that there was a possibility 
 of escape. We all packed up our things, and waited 
 until the enemy's shot would compel us to heave to 
 and surrender,' which appeared certain. Never has 
 there been so evident an interposition of the goodness 
 
198 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 of a Divine Father — my heart with gratitude ac- 
 knowledges his supreme power and goodness. On the 
 morning of the 28th, it was very calm, and nothing 
 but murmurs were heard throughout the ship, as it 
 was feared we should lose our anticipated prize — many 
 plans had been formed by us for the disposal of our 
 plunder. The seamen declared they would have the 
 birth deck carpeted with East India silk, supposing 
 her an Indiaman from India ; while the officers, under 
 the impression she was from England, were making 
 arrangements how we should dispose of the money, 
 porter, cheese, &.c. <Slc. Nothing perplexed us more 
 than the idea that we should not be able to take out 
 all the good things before we should be obliged to de- 
 stroy her. We were regretting our ship did not sail 
 faster, as the Peacock would certainly capture her 
 first, and would take out many of the best and most 
 valuable articles before we should get up — (this very 
 circumstance of our not Sailing as fast as the Peacock 
 saved us in the first instance from inevitable capture, 
 for when Capt. W. made the signal for the sail to be 
 an enemy of superior force, we were 4 leagues to 
 windward.) We all calculated our fortunes were 
 made, but alas, "we caught a Tartar." During the 
 latter part of the chase, when the shot and shells were 
 whistling about our eirs, it was an interesting sight 
 to behold the varied countenances of our crew. They 
 had kept the deck during all the preceding night, em- 
 ployed continually in lightening the ship, were exces- 
 sively fatigued, and under momentary expectation of 
 falling into the hnnds of a barbarous and enraged en- 
 emy. The shot that fell on ihe main deck, (as before 
 related) struck immediately over the head of one of 
 our g.iilant fellows, who had been wounded in our glo- 
 rious action with the Pens;uin, where he was lying in 
 his cot, very ill with his wounds ; the shot was near 
 coming through the deck, and it threw innumerable 
 splinters all around this poor fellow, and struck down 
 a suiall j)ap<'r, American !*]usign, which he had hoist- 
 ed over his bed — desLruclion apparently stared us in 
 
r^AVAL MONUMENT. 199 
 
 the face, if we did not soon surrender, yet no officer, 
 no man, in the ship shewed any disposition to let the 
 enemy have the poor httle Hornet, Many of our 
 men had been impressed and imprisoned for years in 
 t'leir horrible service, and hated them and their nation 
 with the most deadly animosity ; while the rest of the 
 crew, horror-struck by the relation of the sufferings of 
 their shipmates, who had been in the power of the 
 English, and now equally flushed with rage, joined 
 heartily in execrating the present authors of our mis- 
 fortune. Capt. Biddle mustered the crew, and told 
 them he was pleased with their conduct during the 
 chase, and hoped still to perceive that propriety of 
 conduct which had always marked their character, 
 and that of the American tar generally ; that we might 
 soon expect to be captured, Slc. Not a dry eye was 
 to be seen at this mention of capture ; the rugged 
 hearts of the sailors, like ice before the sun, warmed 
 by the divine power of sympathy, wept in unison with 
 their brave commander. About 2 o'clock, the wind, 
 which had crossed us, and put to the test all our nau- 
 tical skill to steer clear of the enemy, now veered in 
 our favor (as before stated) and we left him. This 
 was truly a glorious victory over the horrors of ban- 
 ishment and terrors of a British floating dungeon. 
 Uuick as thought, every face was changed from the 
 gloom of despair to the highest smile of delight, and 
 we began once more to breathe the sweets of liberty 
 — the bitter sighs of regret were now changed, and 1 
 put forth my expression of everlasting gratitude to 
 him, the supreme Author of our being, who had thus 
 signally delivered us from the power of a cruel and 
 vindictive enemy. 
 
 COURT OF INQUIRY. 
 
 A naval court of inquiry was held by order of the 
 secretary of the navy, on board the U. S. ship Hor- 
 net, in the harbour of New- York, on the 23d of Aug. 
 1815, to investigate the causes of the return of that 
 ship into port and to inquire into the circuuistances 
 
200 NAVAL MONLMENT. 
 
 attending the loss of armament, stores, &-c. during 
 her cruise ; and the following opinion has been pro- 
 nounced by the court : 
 
 The court, after mature deliberation on the testimo- 
 ny adduced, are of opinion, that no blame is imputa- 
 ble to Capt. Biddle, on account of the return of the 
 Hornet into port, with the loss of her armament, 
 stores, &.C. and that the greatest applause is due to 
 him for his persevering gallantry nautical skill, evinced 
 in escaping, under the most disadvantageous circum- 
 stance, after a long and arduous chase by a British 
 line-of-battle ship. 
 
 SAMUEL EVANS, President. 
 Henry Wheaton, Special Judge Advocate. 
 
I^AVAL MOMJMExM'. 201 
 
 FURTUEU PARTICULARS OF THE LATE 
 
 WAR. 
 
 PRESIDENT AND BELVIDERA. 
 
 COPY OF A LFITTER FROM CAPT. HULL TO THE SECRETARY 
 
 OF THE ^AVY. 
 
 United States Frigate Constitution. 
 
 Sir, August 28, 1812. 
 
 The fincloscd account of the affair between the 
 President^ Com. Rodgers, and the British frigate 
 Belvidcra, was taken by an otiicer, on board the T^el- 
 videra, and fell into my hands by accident. It clearly 
 proves that she only escaped the commodore by supe- 
 rior sailing, after having lightened her, and the Presi- 
 dent being very deep. 
 
 As much has been said on this subject ; if Com. 
 Rodgers has not arrived, to give you his statemcMit of 
 the affair, if it meet your approbation, I should be 
 pleased to have this account published, to prevent 
 people from making up their minds hastily, as I find 
 them willing to do. 
 
 I am confident, could the commodore have got 
 along side the Belvidcra^ she would have been his, in 
 less than one hour. 
 
 I have the honor to be, with great respect. 
 
 Sir, your obedient servant, 
 Hon. Paul Hamilton, &c. ISAAC IILLL. 
 
 An account of the proceedings of His Majesty's ship 
 Belvidera, Richard Byron Esq. Captain, 2Sd of 
 June, 1812. 
 At 40 minutes past 4 A. M. off Naniurko! ^iidrii. 
 
 saw several sail bearing S. W. nin«!«' sail towards 
 
 them : at 30 minutes past 6, they bore S. W. by S. 
 
 made them out to be three fiigates, one sloop, and 
 26 
 
202 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 one brig of war, standing to the S. E. under a press 
 of sail. Observed them to make signals, and haul up 
 in chase of us, hauling down their steering-sails, in a 
 confused, and irregular manner. Tacked ship, made 
 the private signal, which was not answered , made all 
 sail possible, N. E. by E.; at 8, moderate and fine 
 weather, the headmost ship of the chase S. S. W. 1-3 
 W. apparently gaining ground on us at times, and 
 leaving her consort. At 30 minutes past 11, hoisted 
 our colors and pendant ; the chase hoisted American 
 colors, two of them hoisted commodore's broad pend- 
 ants ; at noon the commodore and the second head- 
 most ship of the chase S. W. 3-4 W. about 2 and 
 3-4. of a mile, Nantucket Shoal N. 4" E. 48 miles; 
 moderate and fine weather, cleared ship for action, 
 commodore of chase grining, the other ships dropping; 
 observed the chase pointing her guns at us ; at 40 
 minutes past 3 P. M. the commodore fired 3 shot, one 
 of which struck the rudder coat, and came into the af- 
 ter gun room ; the other two came into the upper, or 
 captain's cabin, one of which struck the muzzle of the 
 larboard chase gun, the other went through the beam 
 under the skylight, killed William Gould, seaman ; 
 wounded John Hill, armourer, mortally ; Joseph Lee, 
 seaman, severely ; George Marlon, ship's corporal, 
 badly ; Lieut. Bruce, and James Kelly and James 
 Larmont, seamen, slightly. At 45 minutes past 3, 
 commenced firing with our stern guns, shot away her 
 larboard lower steering sail, keeping our ship a steady 
 course N. E. by E. at 4, the chase bore up and fired 
 her larboard broad side, which cut our rigging and 
 sails much, the long bolts, breeching-hooks, and 
 breechings of guns and carronades frequently breaking 
 (by one of which Capt. Byron was severely wounded 
 in the left thigh) all of which was instantly replaced. 
 Kept up a constant fire, which was returned by our 
 opponent with bow-chase guns, and at times by her 
 broadsides, which by her superiority of sailing she 
 was enabled to do till 45 miiuites past 0, when we cut 
 away our spar sheet and small bower anchors, barge, 
 
>' A V A I. M N U -M E .N T . £0.3 
 
 yawl, and jolly boats, and starlcd 14 tons <T water ; 
 we then gained on him, when he bore up and fired 
 three broadsides, part of which fell short of us ; at 7, 
 opponent ceased firing, and the second frigate com- 
 menced, but finding her shot fell short, ceased again. 
 Employed fishing our cross-jack yard, and main top- 
 mast (both badly wounded,) knotting and splicing our 
 rigging, which was much cut and damaged. At 11, 
 altered our course to E. by S. 1-2 S. and lost sight 
 of our opponents. 
 
 AMERICAN SaUADRON. 
 
 Boston, Sept. 1, 1812. 
 
 We with pleasure announce the safe arrival in this 
 port on Monday last of the United States squadron 
 commanded by Com. Rodgers, which sailed from 
 New- York, on the 21st June, on a cruise. The 
 squadron, composed of the President, of 44 guns, 
 bearing Com. Rodgers' flag ; the United States 44, 
 bearing Com. Decatur's flag ; Congress 3G, Capt. 
 Smith ; Hornet 16, Capt. Lawrence ; and brig Ar- 
 gus 16, Capt. Sinclair ; came into harbor in a hand- 
 some style. The squadron had been seventy days at 
 sea, during wliich time they had been nearly to the 
 chops of the English Channel, along the coast of 
 France, Spain, and Portugal ; to within ten leagues 
 of the Rock of Lisbon ; to the vicinity of the West- 
 ern Islands ; and back by the Banks and Coast of 
 Nova Scotia to Boston ; during which time they did 
 not even see a single British national vessel, excepting 
 the Belvidera, with whom the President had a run- 
 ning fight of some hours. They have captured seven 
 English merchantmen, two of which they byrnt, and 
 sent the other five for American ports, none of which, 
 as we have learnt, have been fortunate enough to ar- 
 rive. 
 
 The running fight between the President and Bel 
 videra is thus stated : — The latter was descried on the 
 23d June, when the squadron gave chase. The Pres- 
 ident, by superiority of sailing, got within gun-shot 
 
sot NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 oi'lhe J-elvidera, between four and five o'clock P. ?\I. 
 n lien finding the breeze, which had enabled the Pi^es- 
 idcnt to overhaul the chase, was moderating, and that 
 the cliase was preparing to fire on the President, the 
 latter commenced firing for the purpose of crippling 
 ll'ie spars of the Beividera, in order to come up with 
 jjer. The fire was kept up two hours ; the President 
 yawins, and firing two or three broadsides to effect 
 h.er object, and keeping up a constant fire of the chase 
 guns, which though it cut the sails and rigging, did 
 not stop the way of the Beividera, which, as the wind 
 became light, was accelerated by her crowding all 
 sail, starting her water, cutting away her anchors, and 
 by staving and throwing over her boats. The chase 
 continued until near mi(lnight ; during which the Con- 
 gress frigate came so near the Beividera as to fire 
 three or four shot at her. The Hornet, as reported, 
 had no share in the firing. Early in the chase a very 
 serious accident occurred on board the President — 
 one of the forward guns, in being fired, burst, tore up 
 the decks, killed several seamen, and wounded 1 1 or 
 12 others — among whom was Com. Rodgers, who had 
 stepped forward to direct the firing of the chase guns, 
 and who was blown up, and in the fall ha<l the bone 
 of his leg fractured. He has since recovered. This 
 accident also prevented the chase iruns being used for 
 some time. The loss of the President we have not 
 accurately ascertained. We understand 4 were killed 
 by the bursting of the gun, and 3 by the shot of the 
 Beividera ; and 19 were wounded, mostly slightly, 
 and by the bursting gun. 
 
 We lament to learn, that the crews of the ships are 
 very sickly, mostly of scurvy — occasioned by short 
 allowance of provisions and water, made necessary in 
 coMse(|nenc<; of ihe sudden departure of tlie scpiadron 
 from New- York, and the length of her cruise. Many 
 have died. [Ccnlinel.] 
 
 I 
 
NAVAL MOxNUMENT. 205 
 
 ^ 
 
 FROM COM. RODGERS TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 U. S. Frigate President, Boston, Sept. 1, 1812. 
 Si Ft — I had the honor yesterday of informing you of 
 the arrival of the squadron, and now to state the result 
 and particulars of our cruise. 
 
 Previous to leaving New- York on the 21st of June, 
 I heard that a British convoy had sailed from Jamaica 
 for England on or about the 20th of the preceding 
 month, and on being informed of the declaration of 
 war against Great Britain, I determined, in the event 
 of Com. Decatur joining me with the United States, 
 Compress, and Argus, as you had directed to go in 
 purtuit of them. 
 
 The United States, Congress, and Jlrgus, did join 
 me on the 21st ; with wliich vessels, this ship and the 
 Hornet accordingly sailed in less than an hour after I 
 received your orders of the 18th of June, accompani- 
 ed by your official communication of the declaration 
 of war. 
 
 On leaving New-York I shaped our course south- 
 easterly in the expectation of fjilling in with vessels, 
 by which I should hear of the before mentioned con- 
 voy, and the following night met with an American 
 brig that gave me the sought-for information ; the 
 squadron now crowded sail in pursuit, but the next 
 morning was taken out of its course by the pursuit of 
 a British frigate, that I since find was the Belvidera, 
 relative to which I beg leave to refer you to the enclo- 
 sed extract from my journal. After repairing as far 
 as possible the injury done by the Belvidera to our 
 spars and rigging, we again crowded all sail, and re 
 sumed our course in pursuit of the convoy, but did » A 
 receive further intelligence of it until the 29thof J'.r- , 
 on the western edge of the banks of Newfound'^.'.iu, 
 where we spoke an American schooner, the master «"f 
 which reported that he had two days before passed 
 them in latitude 43°, longitude 55", steering to the 
 eastward. I was surprised to find that the convo^ 
 was still so far to the eastward of us, but was urg»'., 
 
£08 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 however, as well by what I considered my duty as by 
 inclination, to continue the pursuit. 
 
 On the 1st of July, a little to the eastward of New- 
 foundland Bank, we fell in with quantities of cocoa 
 nut-shells, orange-peels, which indicated that the con- 
 voy were not far distant, and we pursued it with zeal, 
 akhough frequently taken out of oiir course by vessels 
 i WHS necessary to chase, without gaining any further 
 intelligence until the 9th of July, in lat. 45" 30' long. 
 23% we captured the British private armed brig Dol- 
 phin, of Jersey, and were informed by some of her 
 crew that they had seen the convoy the preceding even- 
 ing ; the weather was not clear at the time, but /hat 
 they had counted 85 sail, and that the force charged 
 with its protection consisted in one two-decker, a frig 
 ate, a sloop of war, and a brig. 
 
 This was the last intelligence I received of the be- 
 fore-mentioned convoy, although its pursuit was con- 
 tinued until the 13th of July, being then within 18 or 
 20 hours sail of the British channel. 
 
 From this we steered for the Island of Madeira, 
 passed close by it on the 21st of July ; thence near 
 the Azores, and saw Corvo and Flores ; thence steer- 
 ed for the banks of Newfoundland ; and from the 
 latter place, by the way of Cape Sable, to this port, 
 it having become indispensably necessary, by the time 
 we reached our own coast, to make the first conven- 
 ient port in the United States ; owing, I am sorry to 
 say, to that wretched disease, the scurvy, having made 
 its appearance on board of the vessels, most generally 
 to a degree seriously alarming. 
 
 From the western part of the banks of Newfound- 
 land to our making the Island of Madeira the weath- 
 er was such, at least six days out of seven, as to ob- 
 scure from our discovery every object that we did not 
 pass within four or five miles of, and indeed for several 
 days together the fog was so thick as to prevent our 
 seeing each other, even at cable's length asunder, 
 more than twice or thrice in 21- hours. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 207 
 
 From the time of our leaving the United States un- 
 til our arrival here we chased every vessel we saw, 
 and you will not be a little astonished when I inform 
 you, that, although we brought to every thing we did 
 chase, with the exception of four vessels, we only made 
 seven captures and one recapture. 
 
 It. is truly an unpleasant task to be obliged to make 
 a communication thus barren of benefit to our coun- 
 try ; the only consolation I individually feel on the 
 occasion being derived from knowing, that our being 
 at sea obliged the enemy to concentrate a considerable 
 portion of his most active force, and thereby prevented 
 his capturing an incalculable amount of American 
 property that would otherwise have fallen a sacrifice. 
 
 1 am aware of the anxiety you must have experien- 
 ced at not hearing from me for such a length of time ; 
 but this I am sure you will not attribute in any degree 
 to neglect, when I inform you, that not a single prop- 
 er opportunity occurred from the lime of leaving the 
 United States until our return. 
 
 Mr. Newcomb, who will deliver you this, you will 
 find to be an intelligent young man, capable of giving 
 such further information as you may deem of any mo- 
 ment. He will at the same time deliver you a chart, 
 showing the tract in which we cruised. Annexed is a 
 list of vessels captured, recaptured, and burnt. 
 
 The four vessels we chased and did not come up 
 with, were the Bclvidera, a small pilot-boat schooner, 
 supposed to be an American privateer, the herma- 
 phrodite privateer Yankee, which we lost sight of in a 
 fog, but whose character we afterwards learnt, and a 
 frigate supposed to be British, that we chased on the 
 '28th ult. near the shoal of George's bank, and should 
 certainly have come up with, had we had the advan- 
 tage of two hour's more day-light. 
 
 On board of the several vessels of the squadron 
 there are between 80 and 100 prisoners, taken from 
 the vessels we captured during our late cruise. The 
 government not havmg any agent for prisoners here, 
 I shall send them to Com. Bainbridge, to be disposed 
 
208 
 
 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 o' n such a manner as best appeal s with the interest 
 Q. the Uiiited States, and which I hope may meet 
 yc ir approbation. 
 
 With the greatest respect, I have the honor 
 
 to be, sir, your obedient servant, 
 Hon. Paul Hamilton, JOHN RODGERS. 
 
 Sec'y of the navy. 
 
 EXTRACT FROM COM. RODGERs' JOURNAL. 
 
 Sailed from New- York June 21. The 23d, 6 A. 
 M. discov^ered and gave chase to an Enghsh frigate, 
 supposed to be the Belvidera. The superiority of the 
 President's sailing, while the breeze continued fresh, 
 enabled her to get within gun-shot between 4 and 5 
 P. M. when it had moderated so much as to give very 
 faint hopes of getting along side. At this time per- 
 ceiving she v ;is training her guns to bear upon the 
 President, th^ latter commenced a fire at her spars 
 and rigging, with the view to cripple and get abreast 
 of her, a fire was kept up about two hours. The 
 President gave her two or three broadsides, and kept 
 up a well directed fire from the chase guns, which cut 
 her sails and rigging very much, but did not succeed 
 in destroying any of her spars, although some of them 
 were much wounded. The President all this time 
 was exposed to a running fire from her four stern- 
 chasers ; and once the British frigate commenced a 
 fire from her main deck, wilh an intention of rakin<x 
 the President with a broadside, but at that moment 
 receiving one from the President, continued the 
 course under a press of sail, and used only her stern 
 guns. All sail was crowded in pursuit, but in vain. 
 The chase was now throwing overboard every thing 
 that could be spared, to increase her sailing, and es- 
 caped by lightness of the wind ; four of her boats 
 were seen fioating by the President, completely knock- 
 ed to pieces, together with a great number of casks, 
 spais, Sec. and it was supposed most of her guns were 
 also thrown overboard. 
 
 'I he President recejived a considerable number of 
 
NAVAL MONUMKIST. 209 
 
 shot in her sails and rigging, but was not maleriallv 
 injured. The chase was continmul (11 about mid 
 night, when it was rehnquished im h«»|'rless, and tfie 
 President hove to for the squadron (o mme up. Ear- 
 ly in the chase, one of the PresidruVs « base guns, on 
 the gun-deck, hurst, and injured I h( upper deck sf» 
 much, as to prevent the useof tho chii>« guns on tliat 
 side for a considerable time. Tdo I . rsident had .^^ 
 killed, and 19 wounded; most of I ho Iv^iter slightly; 
 of the wounded, 16 were by the bursting of the gun. 
 It was by the same gun Com. Rodgers had his leg 
 fractured ; but has recovered. 
 
 The squadron afterwards pursued the Jamaica fleet, 
 but owing to uncommonly foggy weather, missed them, 
 although at times very near. 
 
 After the renconter above related, Capt. Byron, of 
 the Beividera, in conversation with an American gen- 
 tleman, observed that, in his opinion. Com. Rodgers 
 had done every thing on board the President , which 
 could have contributed to the capture of his ship 
 When the squadron first gave chase to the Beividera, 
 they gained upon her very fast ; and Capt. Byron con- 
 sidered his vessel as lost ; but as a last resort, when 
 the President was coming up within gun-shot of the 
 Beividera, orders were given to cut away the anchors, 
 stave the water casks, and throw overboard tlie boats, 
 and every thing moveable, which could be spared, and 
 which could tend to lighten the ship. As soon as this 
 had been done, it was observed that the Beividera be- 
 gan to draw from the chase ; which being discovered 
 by Com. Rodgers, he opened his fire upon her, in hopy 
 of disabling some of her spars, and tliereby enable 
 him to come up with her. Capt. Byron declared, that 
 the fire from the President was extremely well direc- 
 ted, almost every shot taking effect ; and that to the 
 circumstance above related, and the wind at the same 
 time becoming more light, was his escape to be at- 
 tributed. 
 
 A declaration, like this, coming from an enemy, is 
 conclusive evidence of the good conduct of Com. 
 Rodgers. 
 
 21 
 
210 NAVAL MONUiMENT. 
 
 BRIG NAUTILUS. 
 
 The U. S. brig JVautilus, 12 guns, Capt. Crane, 
 (the loss of which was mentioned on page 9,) sixteen 
 fioiirs from New- York, on a cruise, was captured the 
 IGth of July hy the British trigate Shannon, after a 
 hard chase of six hours, during which the Kautilus 
 was ohhged to start her water, and throw over all her 
 lee-guns. She was ordered to Halifax, with Lieut. 
 Crane on board ; the remainder of the officers and 
 crew (106 in number) were sent on board the Africa. 
 
 LETTER FRO>l A WARRANT OFFICER OF THE NAUTILUS 
 
 TO HIS FATHER. 
 
 On board His Britannic Majesti/s ship Africa, 
 
 at sea, kit. .37°, long. 69", July 23, 1812. 
 
 Honored Sir, 
 
 I have to inform you that we sailed from New York 
 the 15ih July on a cruise. On the 16th at sun-rise 
 discovered five sail to windward, which proved to be 
 the British ships Africa, Shannon, Gnerriere, Belvi 
 dera, and JEolus, and which gave us chase, we then 
 standing E. We immediately wore ship to the W. 
 and made all sail, it then blowing fresh, and used 
 every exertion to get clear by throwing overboard oui 
 anchors, part of our guns, and starting water in the 
 hold; all which proved fruitless. At half past 12, 
 after a chase of six hours, the Shannon came within 
 half gun-shot ; when we had no alternative but to 
 rike our colors to a force so superior to ours. The 
 officers and crew behaved like men, and would not 
 have submitted but to a greatly superior force. Great 
 praises are due to Capt. Crane for his officer and sea- 
 manlike conduct ; and the lieutenants and other otli- 
 cers merit the attention of a grateful country. 
 
 Since we have been prisoners we have been treated 
 with the utmost politeness and humanity by the officers 
 of this ship. We have every indidgence which we 
 could ex|)ect, and can hardly realize that we are |)ris 
 oners. We expect in a few days to be sent to Hali 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 2\\ 
 
 fax, to remain until we are exchanged, which we liope 
 will be soon, and that in the mean time our country 
 will not forget us. I am, &c 
 
 ESSEX AND ALERT. 
 
 LETTER FROM CAPT. PORTER OF THE ESSEX FRIGATE TO 
 THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 Sir, At sea, Aug. 17, 1812. 
 
 I have the honor to inform you, that on the I3th his 
 Britannic Majesty's sloop of war Alert, Capt. T. I^. 
 P. Laugharne, ran down on our weather quarter, gave 
 three cheers, and commenced an action (if so trifling 
 a skirmish deserves the name) and after eight minutes 
 firing struck her colors, with seven feet water in her 
 hold, much cut to pieces, and 3 men wounded. 
 
 I need not inform you that the officers and crew of 
 the Ei.'.seo^' behaved as I trust all Americans will in 
 such cases, and it is only to be regretted, that so much 
 zeal and activity could not have been displayed on an 
 occasion that would have done them more honor. The 
 Essex has not received the slightest injury. 
 
 The Alert was out for the purpose of taking the 
 Hornet ! 
 
 I have the honor to be with great respect, 
 
 your obedient servant, 
 Han. Paul Hamilton, D. PORTER. 
 
 Sec'y of the navy. 
 
 The Alert mounted twenty 181b. carronades, [rated 
 in Steel's list 16] and had 130 men. 
 
 Sir, At sea, Aug. 20, 1812. 
 
 Finding myself much embarrassed by the Alert from 
 the great "number of prisoners we have already made 
 (about 500) I concluded that before our arrival in 
 America the number would be considerably augmen- 
 ted, and as I found my provisions and water getting 
 shori, and being well satisfied that a plan had been 
 
212 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 organized by them for rising on the ship in the event 
 of an engagement ; I considered it to be for tlie inter- 
 est of my country to get clear of them as speedily as 
 possible, particularly as I was well assured that im- 
 mediately on their arrival at St. Johns, an equal 
 number of my countrymen would be released and hnd 
 a sure and immediate conveyance. I therefore drew 
 up written stipulations corresponding with the accom- 
 panying letters ; threw all the guns of the Meit over- 
 board ; withdrew from her all the men belonging to 
 the Essex; appointed Lieut. J. P. Wilmer to com- 
 mand her as a cartel, put all my prisoners on board 
 her, and despatched her for St. Johns, in Newfound- 
 land, with orders to proceed from thence to New- York 
 with such Americans as he may receive in exchange. 
 At a more suitable opportunity I shall do myself 
 the honor to lay before you copies of every paper rel- 
 ative to this transaction, and sincerely hope that my 
 conduct in this affair may meet with your approbation. 
 As the Essex has been so annoying about Bermuda, 
 Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland, I expect I shall have 
 to run the gauntlet through their cruisers; you may 
 hovvever rest assured, that all a ship of her size can do 
 shall be done, and whatever may be our fate our 
 country shall never blush for us. 
 
 I have the honor to be, Slc. 
 Hon. Paul Hamilton, D. PORTER. 
 
 Sec'y of navy. 
 
 We are obliged to omit the correspondence be- 
 tween Captains Porter and Laugharne, in which it 
 was finally agreed that the Jllert^ after being disarmed, 
 . hould go to Newfoundland, as a cartel, with the Brit- 
 ish j)ris()ners. The M rl at'erwards returned to New 
 York with American prisoners. 
 
 I;XTKACT of a LETTF.K FKOIVI admiral DUCKWORTH TO 
 THK SKCRETARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 St. Johns, JVewfoundlond, Aus:;. 31, 1812. 
 A vessel captured as the Alert has been, could not 
 have been vested with the character of a ca^'iel, uniil 
 
>AVAL MONUMExNT. ,213 
 
 she liad entered a port of the nation hy which she had 
 ijeen captured, and been regularly fitted out from 
 thonce. For every prize might otherwise be provided 
 with a flag of truce, and proposals for an excliange qf 
 prisoners ; and rendered thus effectually secure against 
 <he j)ossibility of recapture; while the cruising ship 
 would be enabled to keep at sea with an undiminished 
 crew ; the cartels being always navigated by the pris- 
 oners of war. 
 
 It is utterly inconsistant with the laws of war to re- 
 cognise the principle upon which this arrangement has 
 been made. 
 
 Nevertheless I am willing to give a proof at once 
 of xny respect for the liberality which the captain of 
 the Essex has acted, in more than one instance, to- 
 wards the British subjects who have fallen into his 
 hands; of the sacred obligation that is always felt, to 
 fulfil the engagements of a British officer; and of ray 
 confidence in the disposition of his royal highness the 
 Prince Regent, to allay the violence of war by en- 
 couraging a reciprocation of that courtesy by which 
 its pressure upon individuals may be so essentially di- 
 minished. 
 
 On the 4th of this month, a midshipman of the Es- 
 sex arrived, and presented to me a letter from his cap- 
 tain, proposing an exchange for 86 British prisoners. 
 The midsiiipman had however been placed alone in 
 the charge of one of the captured vessels, with 86 
 prisoners, to conduct them to this port. A list of 40 
 prisoners of the same description, disposed of in the 
 same manner, has been sent to me by the commander 
 of the American private armed schooner the Rossie. 
 
 It is incumbant upon me to protest in the strongest 
 
 manner against the practice of conducting exchanges 
 
 upon terms like these ; and so signify, to you that it 
 
 will be utterly impossible for me to incur, in future, 
 
 , the responsibility of assenting to them. 
 
2l4i NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 WASP AND FROLIC. 
 
 The capture of the Frolic, by the Wasp has been 
 ah'eady given. See. page 14. After Capt. Jones 
 had manned his prize, the Wasp and the Frolic had 
 tile misfortune to fall in with the Poictiers 74, Capt. 
 Beresford, and both were captured and sent to Bermu- 
 da. Lieut. James Biddle was on board the Wasp as 
 a volunteer, and has briefly narrated the occurrence in 
 the following letter to his father. 
 
 His Britannic Majesty's Ship Poictiers 74, atsea,^ 
 
 My dear father, " Oct. 21, 1812. 
 
 The fortune of war has placed us in the hand of 
 the enemy. We have been captured by this ship, af- 
 ter having ourselves captured his Britannic majesty's 
 brig Frolic, 
 
 The Frolic was superior in force to us ; she moun- 
 ted eighteen 321b carronades, and two long 9s. The 
 Wasp you know has only 16 carronades. The action 
 lasted 43 minutes ; we had 5 killed, and the slaugh- 
 ter on board the Frolic was dreadful. We are bound 
 into Bermuda. I am quite unhurt. 
 
 In haste, &c. J. BIDDLE 
 
 A court of inquiry, convened to investigate the con- 
 duct of Capt. Jones in surrendering the Wasp, gave 
 the following opinion, which was approved by the sec- 
 retary of the navy. 
 
 "The court, having heard the statement and evi- 
 dence in this case, ancl having maturely considered the 
 circumstances attending the surrender of the U. S. 
 ship Wasp, of 16 guns, to his Britannic majesty, s 
 ship of the line, the Poictiers, of 74 guns; particu- 
 larly the crippled and disabled state of the Wasp from 
 the brilliant and successful action with his Britannic 
 majesty's ship the Frolic, of superior force; lo the 
 ll'asp about two hours before the Poictiers hove in 
 sight, and the force and condition of the Poictiers, 
 whicli made it useless for them to contend, and ren- 
 dered them unable to escape, are ummimously of opin- 
 ion, that there was no impropriety of conduct on the 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 215 
 
 part of the officers and crew of the said ship Wasp dur- 
 ing the chase by the Poictiers, or in the surrender; but 
 that the conduct of the officers and crew of the Wasp 
 on said occasion was eminently distinguished for firm- 
 ness and gallantry, in making every preparation and 
 exertion, of which their situation would admit." 
 
 VIXEN. 
 
 The United States brig Vixen, Cap. Reed, was 
 captured in November 1812, by the Southampton 32, 
 commanded by Sir James Lucas Yeo, after a chase 
 of nine hours. Both vessels were afterwards totally 
 lost on the island of Conception ( Bahama, ) but the 
 crews were saved and carried to Nassau. 
 
 COPY OF A LETTER FROM CAPT. SIR JAMES LUCAS YEO, OF 
 HIS majesty's ship SOUTHAMPTON, TO VICE AUMIKAL 
 STIRLING. 
 
 His Majesty's Ship Southampton, at sea. 
 Sir, Nov. 22, 1812. 
 
 His Majesty's ship under my command, this day 
 captured the United States brig Vixen, Capt. George 
 Reed, mounting twelve 18 pounders, carronades, two 
 long 9s, and 130 men. She had been out five weeks, 
 and I am happy to say, had not made any capture. 
 I have, &c. 
 
 JAMES LUCAS YEO, Capt 
 Charles Stirling, Esq. 
 Vice Admiral of the ivhite <^-c. 
 
 CAPTURE OF THE SWALLOW. 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FUOM COM. RODGERS TO THE SEC 
 
 RETARV OF THE NAVY. 
 
 United States Ff^igate President, at sea. 
 Sir, October, 17, 1812. 
 
 I have the honor to acquaint you that on the 15th 
 inst. near the Grand Bank, this ship, the Congress in 
 
216 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 company, captured the British king's packet Swallow, 
 Joseph Morphew commander, hound from Kingston, 
 Jamaica, to Falmouth. The rank of the commander 
 of this vessel is that of a master and cotnmander in 
 the navy. She had no cargo on board except twenty 
 boxes of gold and silver, amounting to between one 
 hundred and fifty and two hundred thousand dollars. 
 The specie I took out of her, and had intended send- 
 ing her to England in the character of a cartel wit'.i 
 her own crew ; but having fallen in with the American 
 schooner Eleanor, bound from Baltimore to France, 
 dismasted, induced me to change my determination. 
 With the greatest respect, Slc. 
 
 JOHN RODGERS. 
 
 The President and Congress arrived at Boston on 
 the 3lst of December, after an active cruise of be- 
 tween 80 and 90 days. The President brought in 
 about 50 prisoners. The cash taken from the packet 
 Swallow was carried to the bank from the navy yard, 
 with drums beating, and colours flying, in several 
 waggons, escorted by a part of the crews of the fri- 
 gates, and a detachment of marines, amidst the huzzas 
 of a large concourse of spectators. The specie and 
 gold (Inst deposited amounted to nearly three hundred 
 thousand dollars. 
 
 Richard Moss, quarter-master-gunner, died on board 
 the Presidsnt,Oci. ii). A few hours before his death, 
 he informed Com. Rodgers, that he had a wile and 
 three children in Boston, dependent on him for sup- 
 port ; and expressed considerable anxiety for them, 
 knowing he had but little time to live. Soon afler his 
 death, at the suggestion of Com. Rodgers, a sub- 
 scription paper was opened, which he headed, and was 
 handed through the ship to the officers and crew for 
 subscription, when upwards of seven hundred dollars 
 were immcjdiately subscribed by the generous oliicers 
 and tars, for the relief of the widow and children. 
 
N A V A L iM U .N U M E .\ T . 217 
 
 ESCAPE OF THE ARGUS. 
 
 The nautical skill of the officers of our navy has 
 often been acknowledged by the British. The fol- 
 lowing instance cannot but gratify the friends of the 
 navy and of the officer who conducted the escape. 
 
 The United States hngArgiis, Capt. Sinclair, sail- 
 ed from Boston in company with the United States. 
 After parting with her consort, she proceeded to the 
 coast of Brazil, down the north coast of the country 
 from St. Roquo to Surrinam ; thence she passed to 
 the windward of the island, and in every direction be- 
 tween the Bermudas, Halifax, and the continent. 
 She arrived at New- York in the month of December, 
 after a cruise of 96 days, having made five prizes, val- 
 ued at $200,000. During her cruise she fell in with 
 a squadron of the enemy, consisting of six sail, two 
 of whicli were of the line, one of them a remarkably 
 fast sailer. The favor of the moon enabled them to 
 cliase by night as well as in the day, the chase was 
 continued for three days, without intermission, and 
 under vnrious circumstances, but the unremitted 
 exertions of his officers and crew enabled him to 
 elude the pursuit. Pressed on all sides by the num- 
 ber of the enemy, and the baffling and unsettled state 
 of the weather, the Argus was at one time within mus- 
 ket shot of a 74, and at another surrounded. The de- 
 termined vigilance of Capt. Sinclair rescued her from 
 the difficulty. They had joined in the chase an armed 
 transport, with a view no doubt of destracting the at- 
 tention and deceiving the chase, which being discov- 
 ery, 1h! bore down upon her, and compelhid her to 
 clear the way. Such was the confidence of Capt. 
 Sinclair in the sailing of the Argus, that during the 
 chase, although at one time so closely pressed as to he 
 compelled to lighten his vessel, by throwing (vvi nis 
 spareanchors and spars and deck boats, and starhsig the 
 salt water with which his casks had been filled as the 
 fresh had been used, and reduced to the last necessity 
 of wetting his sails ; yet did he preserve all his guns, 
 
 28 
 
1?18 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 i 
 
 and one night, during the chase, he found time to cap- 
 ture, man, and despatch a prize. So close were they 
 upon him, that when he again made sail, two of the 
 ships opened their batteries upon him. 
 
 NAVAL ANECDOTE. 
 
 On board the United States, Capt. Decatur, was 
 a little boy, about nine years old. He was not con- 
 sidered one of the regular crew ; but he shared the 
 mess of a generous sailor, who had, two years before, 
 taken him from his widowed mother. The spirit of 
 his father, who had also been a seaman, had long since 
 gone aloft, and left his wife and little ones on the 
 shoals of poverty. 
 
 When the Macedonian hove in sight, and all hands 
 were clearing ship for action, the little fellow stepped 
 up to Com. Decatur, — "And it please you. Captain," 
 said he, " I wish my name might be put down on the 
 roll." — "And what for my lad ?" — inquired the com- 
 modore. " So that I can draw a share of the prize 
 money, sir," answered he. Pleased with the spirit 
 and confident courage of the little hero, his name was 
 ordered on the list ; but the moment was> to important 
 to say more. 
 
 After the prize was taken, Decatur thought of the 
 little sailor boy, and called him up — " Well, Bill," 
 said he, " we Tiave taken her, and your share of the 
 prize, if we get her safe in, may be about two hun- 
 dred dollars ; what will you do with it ? " — "I'll send 
 one half to my mother, sir, and tlie other half shall 
 send me to school." " That's noble," cried the com- 
 modore, delighted with the spirit of tiie lad, took him 
 under his immediate protection, and obtained for him 
 the birth of a midshipman. Every attention has been 
 paid to his education, and he gives great promise of 
 making an accom[)lished ofiicer. 
 
NAVAI. MONUMENT. 219 
 
 EXTRACT OF A E»RIVATt, LKTTKK ViioM COM. BAIABRIDOE. 
 
 Jt sea, January 24, 1813. 
 
 " The Java was exceedingly well fought and brave- 
 ly defended. Poor Lambert, whose death I sincerely 
 regret, was a distinguished, gallant olficer, and wor- 
 thv man. He has left a widow and two helpless chil- 
 dren ! But his country makes provision for such events. 
 
 " We are now homeward bound. The damage the 
 Constitution received in the action, and the decayed 
 state she is in makes it necessary for me to return to 
 the United States for repairs ; this I much regret ; 
 my crew participate in this sentiment ; they are how- 
 ever consoling themselves with the hope of receiving 
 their prize money. One says, he will buy himself a 
 snug little ship on the highest hill he can find, that he 
 may thence, in his old age, view all our sea-fights. 
 Another, that now he will marry his Poll — another, 
 that he will send his little Jack to school, &c. 
 
 "Poor fellows, I trust they will not be disappoint- 
 ed in their expectations. Twice have they willingly 
 and gallantly encountered the eneniy, and twice have 
 they succeeded. To return home now, and find they 
 have nothing but a remnant of pay coming to them, 
 would be extremely mortifying. It would inevitably 
 depress their spirits, and damp that noble ardor which 
 they have hitherto felt and displayed. The olficer 
 may feel differently. For the performance of his du- 
 ty he feels a reward in his own bosom, and in his coun- 
 try's thanks. Patriotism and a laudable thirst for re- 
 nown, will lead him to court perils in defence, of his 
 country's rights. These feelings operate upon the sai- 
 lor also : but to keep up the high tone of his ardor, he 
 must have prize money in view. 
 
 True policy,, in my humble opinion, dictates the de- 
 struction of the enemy's ships after capture ; for by 
 manning them,, even if^ they are left in a managable 
 situation, our ships would be so weakened in their 
 crews, that they would be liable to be captured by an 
 equal, or insulted by an inferior force. The act of 
 
220 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 destruction is done by the command of the captain 
 only — the crew who have exposed their lives equally 
 with him, have not the right of opposition. When I 
 ordered the Java to be destroyed, these considerations 
 presented themselves to my mind with great force. — 
 Surely justice and sound policy obviously recommend 
 a liberal provision in their favor. In making these 
 observations I am not influenced by any selfish motive. 
 The applause of my countrymen has for me greater 
 charms than all the gold that glitters. But justice to 
 those who have bravely fought under my command, 
 and assisted me in gaining this victory, requires at my 
 hands an exertion in their behalf; and should it please 
 heaven to conduct us safe to our native shores, I shall 
 not fail to use my best endeavors, solemnly believing, 
 as I do, that the principle is all important to the con- 
 tinued success of our navy. For if it is, as I hold it, 
 the indispensable duty of the commander to destroy 
 the capture on account of the gauntlet he would have 
 to run with both the prize and his own ship (except 
 he should be very near one of our own ports) and the 
 captain to receive (which is almost always the case) 
 all the honor, and the others no compensation — is it 
 not natural to suppose, that the ardent desire which 
 our seamen, at present, so strongly manifest, to get 
 into battle, would diminish .? Let that once take place, 
 and your naval fights will not, I prophecy, be so deci- 
 sive as they would be by keeping the ardor up.. And 
 how trifling an expense the compensations would be 
 in a national view ! The schooner that I am now de- 
 spatching (a prize to the Hornet) will give to the pub- 
 lic treasury upwards of one hundred thousand dollars. 
 
 In the month of February, the letter-of-marque 
 schooner Lottery, Capt. Southcomb, of Baltimore, 
 outward bound, was taken in the Chesapeake, by nine 
 large boats, heavily armed, and having 2U) men, after 
 a gallant light of an hour and a half The Lottery 
 carried (i guns and had about ,J5 men. 
 
, NAVAL MONUMENT. 221 
 
 The following correspondence relates toCapt. South- 
 comb. 
 
 Sir, V. S. Frigate Constellation Feb. 16, 1813. 
 
 At the solicitation of Capt. Southcomb's friends, I 
 sent a flag down to the squadron of the enemy in 
 Lvnnhaven roads, to brins; him and his two wounded 
 men up to Norfolk where their situation could be ren- 
 dered more comfortable. 
 
 Enclosed you will receive a copy of Capt. Byron's 
 note to Capt. Gould on the subject, and also copies 
 of my letter to Capt, Byron and his answer. The 
 cartel returned last evening with the body of Capt. 
 Southcomb ; he was wounded in five places, gallant- 
 ly defending his vessel against a number of armed 
 boats. 
 
 While such instances of bravery cannot but inspire 
 the enemy with respect for the American character, 1 
 trust this instance, among many others of the human- 
 ity and generosity of Capt, Byron, will not be forgot- 
 ten by our countrymen, 
 
 I have the honor to be, Slc. 
 Hon,VV. Jones, «fcc. CHARLES STEWART. 
 
 Sir, February 11, 1813. 
 
 I am glad in being able to get the little box of China 
 for Mrs. Gould. Rest assured of every attention be- 
 ing paid to the unfortunate Capt. John Southcomb 
 and his two wounded men. Whatever vessel comes 
 for them shall be treated with due respect, for which I 
 have the senior captain's authority. 
 
 I am your humble servant, 
 Capt. Gould. R. BYRON. 
 
 U. S. Frigate Constellation, JVorfolk harbour, 
 Sik, February 13, 1813. 
 
 Capt. Gould has handed me a note you addressed 
 to him of the 11th inst. in which you state, "by au- 
 thority of the senior captain of his Britannic Maj- 
 es!y's squadron in J^ynnhaven bay, that Captain South- 
 
222 N A V A L :.l x\ J .M E >' T 
 
 coml), and his two wounded men, will be delivered to 
 any vessel that may come for them." 
 
 I send a flag down to you for the purpose of receiv- 
 ing those unfortunate men, and avail myself of th.s 
 opportunity to thank you for your attention and hu- 
 manity to the unfortunate. 
 
 I have the honor to be, &c. 
 CHARLES STEWART. 
 
 Capt. Richard Byron, &/C. 
 
 Belvidera, Lynnhaven anchorage, 
 Sir, February 13, 181.3. 
 
 I received your letter of this morning by Dr. Ray: 
 it is with extreme concern I acquaint you, that the 
 unfortunate and gallant Capt. Southcomb expired this 
 morning. It will be satisfactory in some degree to 
 his widow, to know, he had a truly religious sense 
 of his situation, latterly delrious, without the excess 
 of pain that might have been expected. Capt. Gould 
 and his steward have charge of his etfects. His body 
 will be placed in the cartel so soon as the coHin can 
 be prepared. The two wounded men at their own 
 request went up in the former cartel, which I am sor- 
 ry to hear got on shore. I am extremely flattered 
 with the part of your letter, thanking me for atten- 
 tion and humanity to the unfortunate, which gives me 
 the most perfect assurance of the generous feelings 
 of Capt. Charles Stewart. 
 
 I have the honor to be. Sec. 
 Capt. C. Sewart, <fec. R. BYRON. 
 
 GENEROSITY. 
 
 By the humanity of Capt. Smith the officers and 
 crew of the Cons:;ress frigate, lying in Boston harbour, 
 a subscription of one hundred and fifty dollars was 
 raised and presented to Richard Dunn, who lost h's 
 leg in bravelv fiahtiiw for "free trade and sailors, 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 223 
 
 rights," on board the Cou5/i/w^ioJi, in her engagement 
 with the British frigate Guerrierc. 
 
 Heroism — A Card. 
 
 R. Dunn takes this method pubhcly to acknowl- 
 edge the receipt of the above subscription, and to 
 present his hearty thanks to Capt. Smith, his officers 
 and crew, for their kind remembrance of liim. He 
 would also assure them, that though he has lost one 
 LEG, he is willing to fight on the other /or the lib- 
 erty of his enslaved brethren, and the honor of his 
 country. 
 
 March, 1813. 
 
 COM. Decatur's squadron. 
 
 On the 11th of June, Com. Decatur and his squad- 
 ron attempted to go to sea from New York, but were 
 prevented by two 74s and a frigate, and driven into 
 the harbour of New London, where they were block- 
 aded until the close of the war, except the Hornet, 
 which made her escape in Nov. 1814. The Ameri- 
 can squadron consisted of the United States M Mac- 
 edonian 38, and Hornet 16. 
 
 REVENUE CUTTER SURVEYOR. 
 
 The Baltimore Revenue Cutter Surveyor was 
 captured by the barges of the JVarcisus frigate, in 
 York river, on the night of the 12th of June. The 
 enemy was discovered when about 150 yards distant. 
 Capt. Travis could not bring his guns to bear, and 
 therefore furnished each of his men with two muskets. 
 They held their fire until the British >vere within pis- 
 tol shot ; but the enemy pushed on and finally carried 
 the vessel by boarding, with 3 men killed and a num 
 her wounded. Capt. Travis and his crew, 15 in num- 
 i)er, were all taken on board the Junon, and the next 
 
224i NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 (lay the senior officer of the JVarcissus returned he 
 captain his sword, with the following complimentary 
 letter. 
 
 Sir, His Majesty's Ship JVarcissus, June 13, 1813. 
 
 Your gallant and desperate attempt to defend your 
 vessel against more than double your number, on the 
 nioht of the 12th inst. excited such admiration on the 
 part of your opponents, as 1 have seldom witnessed, 
 and induced me to return you the sword you had 
 so nobly used, in testimony of mine. Our poor fel- 
 lows have severely suffered, occasioned chiefly, if not 
 solely, by the precaution you had taken to prevent 
 surprise; in short, I am at a loss which to admire 
 most, the previous engagement on board the Survey- 
 or, or the determined manner by which her deck was 
 disputed, inch by inch. 
 
 I am, sir, with much respect, &.c. 
 
 Capt. S. Travis, JOHN CRERIE. 
 
 U. S. Cutter Surveyor. 
 
 ATTACK ON A BRITISH SaUADRON BY 
 A FLOTILLA OF GUN-BOATS. 
 
 LETTER FR()>1 COM. J(»ll\ UASSIX TO THE SECRETARY OF 
 
 THE NAVY. 
 
 Sir, JVavy Yard, Gosport, June 2\, IS 1 3. 
 
 On Saturday at 1 1 P. M. Capt. Tarbcll moved 
 with the flotilla under his command, consisting of 15 
 <'-un-boats, in two divisions, liicut. Jolm M. Gardner 
 1st division, and Lieut. Rol)ert Henley the 2d — man- 
 ned from the frigate, and 5i) musketeers, ordered from 
 Craney Island by Gen. Taylor, and proceeded down 
 tlie river; but adverse winds and scfualls prevented 
 I s approaching the enemy until Sundny morning at 4, 
 when the flotiUa connnoncrd a hoiivy galling fu'c on a fri- 
 gate, at about thre<'<juarters<)f a mde distance, lying well 
 up the roads — two other IrigMtcs Ivirig in sight. At 
 half past 4, a breeze sprung up from E. N. E. which 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 225 
 
 enabled the two frigates to get under way — one a razee 
 or very heavy ship, and the other a frigate — and to 
 come nearer into action. The boats, in consequence 
 of their approach, hauled off, though keeping up a 
 well directed fire on the razee and the other ship, 
 vviiich gave us several broadsides. The frigate lirst 
 engaged, supposed to be the Junon, was certainly se- 
 verely handled — had the calm continued one half hour, 
 that frigate must have fallen into our hands, or been 
 destroyed. She must have slipped her mooring so as 
 to drop nearer the razee, who had all sail set, coming 
 up to her with the other frigate. The action contin- 
 ued one hour and a half with three ships. Shortly 
 after the action, the razee got along side of the ship, 
 and had her upon a deep careen in a little time, with 
 a number of boats and stages round her. I am satis- 
 fied considerable damage was done to her, for she 
 was silenced some time, until the razee opened her 
 fire, when she commenced again. Our loss is very 
 trifling. Mr. Allison, master's mate, on board 1.39, 
 was killed early in the action, by an 181b. ball, which 
 passed through him and lodged in the mast. No. 
 154) had a shot between wind and water. No. 67 
 had her franklin shot awav , and several of them had 
 some of their sweeps and their stuncheons shot away 
 — but two men slightly injured from the sweeps. On 
 the flood tide several ships of the line and frigates 
 came into the roads, and we did expect an attack last 
 night. There are now in the roads 13 ships of the 
 1 ne and frigates, one brig and several tenders. 
 
 I cannot say too much for the officers and crews on 
 this occasion ; for every man appeared to go into ac- 
 tion with so much cheerfulness, apparently to do their 
 duty, resolved to conquer. I had a better opportu- 
 nity of discovering their actions than any one elst, 
 being in my boat the whole of the action. 
 
 I have the honor to be, &-c. 
 Hon. W. Jones, &c. JOHN CASSIN. 
 
 29 
 
226 NAVAL a:ois'umejst. 
 
 LOSS OF THE ASP. 
 
 i.OPY OF A LETTER FKoM MtDSHIP'IAN m'cLIXTOCK TO THE 
 SECHETAKY (»F T}1E NAVY. 
 
 Sifi, KinsaL', Virginia, July 13, 1813 
 
 I HAVE to inform you of the unfortunate event 
 which occurred here on the I kh ; the action between 
 the British barges and the United States schooner Asp, 
 commanded by Mr. Segourney. At 9 A. M. the 
 Scorpion and Asp got under way from Yeocomico riv- 
 er and stood out. At 10, discovered a number of 
 sail, which proved to be the enemy ; the Scorpion 
 then made signal to act at discretion, and stood up the 
 river; the schooner being a bad sailer and the wind 
 ahead, we were not able to get out. Finding the en- 
 emy approaching us, we thought it best to return. 
 Immediately two of the brigs stood towards us, and 
 anchored a short distance from the bar, wdiere they 
 manned their boats. Mr. Segourney thought it would 
 be for our advantage to run further up the creek, 
 which we did, but finding the enemy had left their 
 vessels, we had not time to weigh anchor, therefore 
 we were obliged to cut our cables. We were attack- 
 ed by three boats, well manned and armed; we con- 
 tinued a well directed fire on them, and after a short 
 time they were compelled to retreat, and obtain a re- 
 inforcement. xVbout an hour after they retired, we 
 were attacked by five boats; we continued doing the 
 same as before, but having so few^ men, we were un- 
 able to repel the enemy. When they boarded us, 
 they refused giving us any quarter. There were up- 
 w^ards of 50 men on our decks, which compelled us 
 to leave the vessel, as the enemy had possession. 
 They put her on f:re and retreated. A short time 
 after they left her, we went on board, and with much 
 difficulty extinguished the llames. But it is with 
 deep reijret that T inform you of the death ol" Mr. 
 Segourney, who fought most galhuitly in delence of 
 the vessel ; and the utmost exertion was used by ev- 
 
 I 
 
' NAVAL MONUMENT. 227 
 
 ery man on board. Our crew consisted only of 21. 
 Tliere are ten killed, wounded and missing. 
 
 Your obedient servant, 
 Hon.W. Jones, IT. M. M'CLINTOCK, 
 
 Sec'y of navy. Midshipman in the U. S. navy. 
 
 VIPER. 
 
 The United States brig Viper, 14 guns, comman- 
 ded by Lieut. Henley, was captured by the British 
 frigate JYarcissus. The customary court of inquiry 
 was held in June on the conduct of Lieut. Henley. 
 He was honorably acquitted, as having done all in 
 his power to escape a superior force. The court 
 gave the same opinion respecting the conduct of Cap. 
 Reed, late commander of the Vixen — See page 217. 
 
 The Viper was captured Jan. 1813. 
 
 IlEPULSE OF THE BillTlSFI AT CRANEY ISLAND. 
 
 Extract of a letter from Com. Cassin to the Scc'ry 
 
 of the navy. 
 
 Sir, JVavy Yord,Gosport, June 23, 18!3. 
 
 I have the honor to inform you, that on the 20th the 
 ciiemy got under way, in all 13 sail, and dropped up to 
 the mouth of James' river, one ship bearing a ila : at 
 m^zen. At 5, P. M. they were discovered making 
 great preparations with troops for landing, hav-ng a 
 number of boats for the purpose. Finding Craney 
 island rather weakly manned, Capt. Tarbell directed 
 Lieuts. Neal, Shubrick, and Sanders, with 100 sea- 
 men, on shore, at 11, P. M. to a small battery on the 
 N. W. side of the Island. 
 
 Tuesday 22d, at dawn, the enemy were discovered 
 landing round the point of Nansemond river; at 8 
 A. M. the barges attempted to land in front, of the 
 
228 NAVAL MONUMENT. ^ 
 
 island, out of reach of the shot from the gun-boats, 
 when Lieuts. Neal, Shubrick, and Sanders with the 
 sailors, and Lieut. Breckenridge with the marines 
 of the Constellation, 150 in number, opened the fire 
 which was so well directed, that the enemy were glad 
 to get oft', after sinking three of their largest boats. 
 One of them called the Ccntepede. Admiral War- 
 ren's boat, 50 feet in length, carried 15 men, the great- 
 er part of whom were lost by her sinking. Twenty 
 soldiers and sailors were saved, and the boat hauled 
 up. 
 
 The officers of the Constellation fired their 18 poun- 
 der more like riflemen than artillerists. I never saw 
 such shooting, and seriously believe they saved the isl- 
 and. 
 
 I have the honor to be, &^c. 
 Hon. W. Jones, sSlc. JOHN CASSIN. 
 
 The number of the enemy engaged in the attack 
 was nearly 3000. 
 
 On the 25th of June the British, about 2500, at- 
 tacked and took possession of the town of Hampton, 
 after a brave resistance, by 400 Americans, under the 
 command of Maj. Crutchfield. The atrocities of the 
 enemy ai this place are well known. 
 
 SCHOONER EAGLE. / 
 
 Mw York, June 27, 1813. 
 The schooner Eagle, which sailed from this port on 
 the 15th, was taken by \\\e enemy's barges at New 
 London on the 25th. Owing to adverse winds ihr 
 enemy were unable to low ihe schooner along side of 
 the squadron. While the enemy were attempting f») 
 lake out the cargo, an explosion took place, which 
 killed a considerable number of the enemy. One 
 barge first approached to capture the Eagle, but she 
 was beat off. Three others came, and the schooner 
 was abandoned by the crew. The cask, containing 
 
KAVAL MO.NUMENT. 
 
 the powder had a lock, with which was connected a 
 string, that was fastened to some of the articles of 
 spoil the enemy moved. The explosion took place by 
 their means, and immediately the schooner and barges 
 disappeared ! 
 
 A fishing vessel arrived at Salem with the following' 
 endorsement on her papers. 
 
 ''His Majesty's Ship La Houge, at sea, 
 
 Juhj8, 1812. 
 " I have warned the fishing boat Sally, of Barnsta- 
 ble, immediately to proceed to her own coast, in conse- 
 quence of the depredations committed by the Young 
 Teazcr, and other American privateers, on the British 
 and coasting vessels belonging to Nova Scotia ; but 
 more particularly from the inhuman and savage pro- 
 ceedings of causing the American schooner Eagle to 
 be blown up after she had been taken possession of by 
 His Majesty's ship Ramilies— an act not to be justified 
 on the most barbarous principles of warfare. — I have 
 directed His Britannic Majesty's cruisers on the coast 
 to destroy every description of American vessels they 
 may fall in with, flags of truce only excepted. Given 
 under my hand. 
 
 " THOMAS B. CAPEL, Captr 
 
 EAGLE. 
 
 LETTER FROM COM. LEWIS TO THE SECRETARY OF THE 
 
 NAVY. 
 
 Sir, * Off Sandy Hook July 6, 1813. 
 
 I have the pleasure to inform you of the capture of 
 the British sloop tender Eigle, which for some time 
 had been employed, by Com. Beresford, for the pur- 
 pose of burning the coasters, Slc. Her force was two 
 officers and 11 men, with a 321b. brass howitzer. This 
 service was performed in the most gallant and officer 
 like manner bv Saihng Master Percival, who with vol- 
 untee^s from the flotilla, which I have the honor to 
 
230 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 command, jumped on board a fishing smack, ran along 
 side the enemy ; and carried him by a coup de main. 
 I am sorry to add, that in this httle affair the enemy lost 
 the commanding officer, one midshipman mortally 
 wounded, and two seamen badly. I am happy to say, 
 we suffered no injury which is to be attributed 
 to the superior management of Sailing Master Per- 
 cival, and the coolness with which his men fired ; for 
 which they all deserve well of their country. 
 
 I have the honor to be, &.c. 
 
 Hon. William Jones, &.c. J. LEWIS. 
 
 P. S. The capture was on Sunday the 4th inst. 
 
 FUKTIIER particulars. 
 
 The fishing smack, named the Yankee, was borrowed 
 of some fishermen at Fly Market, in the city of New 
 York, and a calf, a sheep, and a goose purchased, and 
 secured on deck. Between 30 and 40 men, well armed 
 with muskets, were secreted in the cabin and fore- 
 peake of the smack. Thus prepared, she stood out to 
 sea, as if going on a fishing trip to the banks, three 
 men only being on deck, dressed in fishemen's appa- 
 rel, with buff caps on. The Eagle, on perceiving 
 the smack, immediately gave chase, and after coming 
 up with her, and finding she had live stock on deck, 
 ordered her to go down to the commodore, then about 
 five miles distant. The helsman answered, aye, aye. 
 Sir, and apparantly put up the helm for the purpose, 
 which brought him along side of the Eagle, not more 
 than three yards distant. The watch-word Lawrence 
 was then given, when the armed men rushed on deck 
 from their hiding places, and poured into her a volley 
 of musketry, which struck the crew with dismay, ;ind 
 drove them all down so precipitately into the hold of 
 the vessel, that they had not time to strike their colors. 
 'V\\Q Eagle, with the prisoners, was carried to the city 
 and landed at Whitehall, amidst the shouts and j)laudits 
 of thousands of spectators, assemi)led on the battery, 
 relebrating the 4th of July. 
 
 Ilem-y Morris, commander of i\\c Eagle, was buried 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 231 
 
 ?.t Srauly Hook with military honors, and in the most 
 rj'spectful manner. Mr. Price who died soon after, 
 was buried in Trinity Church yard, with every testi- 
 mony of regard. 
 
 TORPEDO. 
 
 Mr. E. Mix of the navy, a gentleman of ingenuity 
 and enterprise, constructed a torpedo for the purpose 
 of destroying some of the enemy's shipping in Lynn- 
 haven bay The British 74 gun ship Plantagenel, 
 which for some, months had been lying abreast of Cape 
 Henry light house, appeared to Mr. Mix, as the most 
 favorable object on which to try his experiment. Ac- 
 cordingly, on the night of the 18th, and the four fol- 
 lowing, accompanied by Capt. Bowman of Salem 
 and Midshipman M'Gowari, of the U. S. navy, he 
 made the attempt, which proved fruitless, in conse- 
 quence of being discovered by the enemy, who, sus- 
 pecting some mischief, changed her position every 
 night. On the night of the 24th however, Mr. Mix 
 succeeded in finding her out, and having taken his po- 
 sition 100 yards distance, in a direction with her lar- 
 board bow, he dropped the fatal machine into the wa- 
 ter just as the centinel was crying all's loell. It was 
 swept along with the tide, and very nearly effected its 
 purpose. It exploded a few seconds too soon. 
 
 The scene was awfully sublime. It was like the 
 concussion of an earthquake, attended with a sound 
 louder and more terrific than the heaviest peal of thun- 
 der. A pyramid of water, 50 feet in circumference, 
 was thrown up 40 or 50 feet ; its appearance was a viv- 
 id red, tinged at the sides with beautiful purple. On 
 ascending to its greatest height it burst at the top with 
 M tremendous explosion, and fell in torrents on the deck 
 of the ship, which rolled into the chasm and nearly up- 
 set. The Hght, occasioned by the explosion, though 
 fleeting, enabled Mr. Mix and his companions to dis- 
 
232 NAVAL MOiNLiMENT. 
 
 cover, that tl.e fore-chaitne! of the ship was blown off, 
 and a boat, which hiy along side with several men in 
 her was thrown up in the convulsion. 
 
 EXPLOIT AT GARDNERS ISLAND. 
 
 On the evening of the ,28th of July, two boats from 
 the Macedonian and two from the United States^ un- 
 der Lieut. Gallager, made an excursion into the sound. 
 In the night a small boat, under the direction of Mid- 
 shipman Ten Eyke, being separated by a strong wind 
 and tide from the others, landed on Gardner's Island. 
 In the morning, finding themselves under the guns of 
 the Ramilies, the boat was hauled ashore. Soon afier 
 a boat came ashore from the Ramilies and the officers 
 went to a dwelling house. Midshipman Ten Eyke 
 seized the favorable moment, made prisoners of those 
 who were left with the English boat, and then with two 
 men proceeded to the house, where he took two lieu- 
 tenants, making in all, prisoners of two lieutenants 
 one midshipman, one master's mate, and five seamen. 
 Finding they were discovered by the Ramilies, the 
 captives were parolled, and Mr. Ten Eyke and crew 
 made their escape to Long Island. The succeeding 
 night the other boat took them off. 
 
 DELAWARE FLOTILLA. —LOSS OF GUN-BOAT NO. 121. 
 
 Extract of a letter from Lieut. Angus, commanding 
 the U. S. Delaware Jlotilla, to the Secr'y of the 
 navy. 
 
 Sir, Cape May, July 29, 1813. 
 
 Lying off Dennes' creek this morning, I discovered, 
 that an enemy's sloop of war had chased a small ves- 
 sel, and taken her near the overfalls. I innnodiately 
 got underway, and stood down the bay. The sloop 
 of war stood so near the overfalls, that she grounded 
 slightly on the outer ridge of Crow's shoals. I thought 
 proprr to endeavor to bring him to action. I sue- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. ' 233 
 
 ceeded, and n^ot within tln-ee quarters of a mile, and 
 anchored the hoats (consisting of 8 gun-boats and two 
 black ships) in a hue ahead. A heavy frigate had by 
 this time anchored about half a mile further out. Af- 
 ter a cannonade of 1 hour and 45 minutes, in which 
 the sliips kept up a constant and heavy fire, heaving 
 tlieir shot from a half to three quarters of a mile over 
 us, they doing us but little damage ; the sloop of war 
 and frigate, fiuding our shot to tell on their hulls, 
 manned their boats, ten in number, (2 launches, the 
 rest large barges and cutters,) with from 30 to 40 men 
 in each, and despatched them after gun-boat No. 121, 
 Sailing Master Shed, which had unfortunately fell a 
 mile and a half out of the line, although it had been 
 my positive and express orders to anchor at half cable 
 length apart, and not further. From the strong ebb 
 tide they succeeded in capturing her, after a gallant 
 resistance,) for three times did No. 121 discharge her 
 long gun, apparently full of canister, among the whole 
 line of boats, when at a very short distance, which 
 must have done execution, and not till afler she was 
 boarded, did the colors come down, before any assis- 
 tance could be given her. However, we got near 
 enough to destroy .3 or 4 of their boats, and must 
 have killed a vast number of men. It being a calm, 
 they succeeded in getting her away by sending all 
 their boats ahead and towimj her ; but tl)ey lave paid 
 dear for their temerity. They must at least have had 
 one third of their men killed and wounded. I am 
 happy to say, thrtt not a man was wounded in any of 
 our boats, except the one captured, whose fate I have 
 not yet learnt. I feel much indebted to Lieut. Mitch- 
 el, and officers commanding gun-boats, for their spir- 
 ited conduct in carrying into execution my orders ; 
 and if I may judge from the gallant resistance, made 
 by Sailing Master Shed, in engaging when surrf)unded 
 by the boats of the enemy, that every officer and man 
 of the flotilla will do his duty in all situations. 
 
 I have the honor to be, Slc. 
 Hon. W. Jones, &c. SAMUEL ANGUS. 
 
 30 
 
034i NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 From Lieut. Shed's official letter it appears, that 7 
 of our men were wounded, 5 shghtly. The loss of 
 the enemv was 7 killed and 12 wounded. 
 
 COM. Rodger's cruise. 
 On the 26th of September, the U. S. frigate Pres- 
 ident Com. Rodgers, arrived in the harbour of JN ew- 
 nort after a cruise of more than five months. ihis 
 ship'left Boston on the 30th of April, in company with • 
 the U S fri crate Congress from which she separated 
 on the 30th °of the same month. She pursued her 
 course to the Grand Bank, the Azores, Shetland isles, 
 and to North Bergen, where she put m for water. 
 She left this place on the 2d of July, shaped her course 
 towards the Orkney Islands, and from thence to the 
 north seas. July 19th off North cape, White sea, 
 was chased 86 hours by 2 line-of-battle ships, took a 
 circuit round Ireland, got into the latitude of Cape 
 Clear, proceeded to the Grand Banks, and from thence 
 to the United States. 
 
 The folloimng is the concluding part of thn commo- 
 dore's official account. 
 
 ''Durin^ my cruise, although I have not had it in 
 my power to add any additional lustre to the character 
 of our little navy, 1 have nevertheless rendered essen- 
 tial service to m'y country, I hope, by harassing the 
 enemy's commerce, and cm])loymg to his disadvan- 
 tage more than a dozen times the force of a single 
 
 ^' My officers and crew have experienced great pri- 
 vations since I left the United States, from bcmg near- 
 ly five months at sea, and living the last three months 
 of that time upon a scanty allowance of the roughest 
 fare • and it is with peculiar pleasure that I acquaint 
 you 'that they are all in better health than might be 
 expected, although you may well suppose that their 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 235 
 
 scanty allowance has not been ofany advantage to their 
 strength or appearance. 
 
 " The High Fly^r was commantlQcl by Lieut. 
 Hutchinson, second of the St. Domingo. She is a re- 
 markably fine vessel of her class, sails very fast, and 
 would make an excellent light cruiser, provided the 
 government have occasion for a vessel of her descrip- 
 tion. 
 
 " Just at the moment of closing my letter, a news- 
 paper has been handed me, containing Capt. Broke's 
 challenge to my late gallant friend, Capt. Lawrence, 
 in which he mentions, with considerable emphasis, the 
 pains he had taken to meet the President and Con- 
 gress^ with the Shannon and Tenedos. 
 
 "It is unnecessary at present to take farther notice 
 of Capt. Brokes observations, than to say, if that was 
 his dispostion, his conduct was so glaringly opposite, 
 as to authorize a very contrary belief. Relative to 
 Capt. Broke, I have only further to say, that I hope he 
 has not been so severely wounded as to make it a suf- 
 ficient reason to prevent his reasumming the command 
 of the Shannon at a future day." 
 
 Here follow the names of II merchantmen, and the 
 High Flyer schooner of 5 guns, captured during his 
 cruise. 
 
 The capture of the schooner High Flyer, of 5 guns, 
 by Com Rodgers, was very extreordinary. On ma- 
 king the schooner to the southward of Nantucket 
 Shoals, she hoisted the private British signal, which 
 was answered by Com. Rodgers, and fortunately pro- 
 ved the private British signal of that day. Upon se- 
 ing this, the High Flyer came immediately to him. 
 Com. Rodgers ordered one of his officers to dress in 
 a British uniform, and manned out a boat and boarded 
 him. The lieutenant of the schooner did not wait to 
 be boarded, but manned his own boat and boarded the 
 President, supposing her to be a British frigate. 
 . The British Lieut, was on board for some time, before 
 he discovered his mistake. The officer, that boarded 
 the schooner from the President, asked the officer left 
 
236 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 in charge of the schooner for his private signals and 
 instructions, which were immediately handed to him ; 
 by this stratagem, Com. Rodgers has obtained pos- 
 session of the British private signals, and Ad. War- 
 ren's instructions. On examining Ad. AVarrens, in- 
 structions, Com. Rodgers discovered the number of 
 British squadrons, stationed on the American coast, 
 tlieir force, and relative position — with pointed instruc- 
 tions to all of them, if possible to capture the Pres- 
 ident. 
 
 CHALLANGE. 
 
 Copy of a letter from Lieut. Claxton to his father: 
 
 Macedonian, JVeiv London, Jan. 19, 181 4. 
 Dear father. 
 
 For the two last days we have been all anxiety ; an 
 American captain returned on parole from the Rami- 
 lies 74i, a few days since, and communicated to com. 
 Decatur, a consultation he had with Capt. Hardy, in 
 which the letter said, " that now that two frigates 
 were off, of equal force to the United States and 
 jyiacedonian, that he should have no objection to a 
 meeting taking place, but that he could not allow the 
 challange to come from the English commanders." 
 The hint was embraced in a moment, and Capt. Bid- 
 die despatched with a challange from our commanders. 
 In the mean time every preparation was made, on our 
 side, for an immediate engagement, which we all sup- 
 pose, no objection could be made to : the crews of 
 both ships were called together, and addressed by 
 their commanders, who made known to them the sub- 
 stance of the business then on foot ; they were an- 
 swered by three hearty cheers. Capt. Jones conclu- 
 ded his short and pertinent address in the following 
 words, spoken with great modesty : '* IMy lads, our 
 cruise will be short, and, 1 trust a very protitable 
 one." Capt Biddle went on board the 74; a signal 
 was immediately made for the two command(M-s of the 
 English frigates, and they went on board. Capt. 
 Hardy addressed them, "gentlemen, here arc two 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 237 
 
 letters for you ; it rests altogether with you to decide 
 on the matter." Stackpole, of the Stath a, answered 
 with the greatest affection, " pon honor, sir, it is the 
 most acceptable letter I ever received." The final an- 
 swer was to be given yesterday. Capt Biddle retur- 
 ned, and related the circumstance as I have mention- 
 ed. For myself, I thought from the manner of 
 Stackpole, that he would be first to flinch. I am 
 not able to say that he did ; it is enough, that 
 the captain of the Borer (sloop of war,) came in 
 yesterday, and made known that they had declined 
 meeting us. This circumstance has made a vast 
 deal of conversation here, much to the credit of our 
 commanders — it will probably be distorted into a hun- 
 dred different shapes before it is done with ; I have 
 therefore given you a correct though brief account of 
 it. The Endymion mounts the same weight of metal 
 with the United States, and three or four guns more, 
 and the Statira is superior to us by one or two guns. 
 The disappointment, is very great with us, for every 
 soul calculated on taking her with ease. You see we 
 must trust altogether to our heals. 
 
 Yours affectionately, 
 
 A. CLAXTON. 
 
 GALLANT DEFENCE OF THE ALLIGATOR. 
 
 The following is Mr. Bassett's report. 
 
 U. S. Schooner Alligator, Wappo, Jan. 31, 1814. 
 
 Sir, 
 
 I have the honor to inform you, that the U. S. 
 schooner Alligator, under my command, was attacked 
 on the evening of the 29th inst. then lying at anchor 
 in Stono river and abreast of Coles' Island, by six 
 boats from the enemy's squadron, offT the mouth of the 
 river, and succeeded in beating them off", after a warm 
 action of 30mintues. I have to regret on this occa- 
 sion the loss of 2 men killed and 2 wounded; one of 
 the latter, the pilot Mr. Robert Hatch severely. This 
 
238 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 brave man fell at the helm, exorting those around 
 him to take good aim at the enemy. I hope his 
 conduct will entitle him to your notice. It is impos- 
 sible to ascertain what loss the enemy sustained ; but 
 from suddenly ceasing their fire from the two large 
 launches, and the other boats joining them immediate- 
 ly, I am induced to believe they suffered severely, as 
 the schooner grounded, and they did not renew the ac- 
 tion. The sails and rigging of the schooner are much 
 cut, but no damage sustained in the hull. I can- 
 not conclude without rendering my thanks to the gal- 
 lant otHcers and men you did me the honor to place 
 under my command for their meritorious conduct, 
 which alone prevented the schooner from falling into 
 the hands of an enemy of more then treble our num- 
 ber. 
 
 J. H. Dent, Esq. R. BASSETT. 
 
 Capt. Dent in communicating this report says, 
 great credit is due to Sailing Master Bassett, his 
 officers and crew, for defeating a force so great- 
 ly superior in numbers, as there could not have been 
 less than 140 men opposed to 40 
 
 LOSS OF THE FERRET. 
 
 OFilClAL ACCOUNT. 
 
 Sir, Folly- Island, Feb. 3, 1814. 
 
 I AM sorry to acquaint you of the entire loss of the 
 U. S. schooner Ferret. Tliis unfortunate circum- 
 stance occurred last evening, on the North Breakers 
 of Stony inlet. 
 
 I am happy to say, none of her officers or men 
 were lost or injured. They have lost every thing be- 
 longing to them, and would suffer much, were it not 
 for the kindness of Mr. Darley and Mr. Ileoland, 
 who have rendered many services. 
 
 1 am making prei)arations to proceed to the. wreck 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 239 
 
 with a vessel, to save what articles of rigging and 
 sails I can get at. I am in hopes to get some of her 
 guns, which I threw into the hold. Finding the vessel 
 half full of water, I appreliended her drifting out in 
 deep water, should she be lightened, would render our 
 situation more hazardous. 
 
 Mr. Brailsford, whom I have sent on with a pro- 
 portion of my crew, will inform you more particular- 
 ly of the circumstance which the present haste I am 
 in will not allow me to do, as fully as I could wish. 
 I have the honor to be, 
 
 most respectfully your obe't serv't, 
 
 LAWRANCE KEARNEY 
 Lieut. Com. U. States schooner Fei^ret. 
 Com. J. H. Dent, Com' g JVavalOJJicer, Charleston. 
 
 CRUISE OF THE PRESIDENT. 
 
 The United States frigate President, Com. Rodgers 
 arrived at Sandy Hook, on the 18th of February 1814, 
 after a cruise of 75 days. She passed most of the 
 West-India islands ; lay off Charlestown 48 hours, 
 and was chased by a 74, two frigates, and two sloops 
 of war. During the cruise she captured three Eng- 
 lish merchantmen, which were sunk, after taking out 
 their cargoes. She had on board 30 prisoners. 
 A private letter from an officer on board the Presi 
 dent states, 
 
 " Situations in which we have been placed this 
 cruise, will, I think, add lustre to the well established 
 character of Com. Rodgers. 
 
 " After passing the light, saw several sail, one large 
 sail to the windward ; backed our main top-sail and 
 cleared ship for action. The strange sail came down 
 within gun-shot — hauled her wind on the larboard 
 tack. We continued with our main top-sail to the 
 mast three hours, and seeing no probability of the 74 
 gun ship's bearing down to engage the President^ 
 gave her a shot to windward and hoisted our colors 
 — when she bore for us reluctantly — when within 
 half gun shot, backed his main top-sail. At this mo 
 
240 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 ment, all hands were called to muster aft; and the 
 commodore said a few, but impressive words, though 
 it was unnecessary ; for what other stimulent could 
 true xVmericans want, than fighting gloriously in sight 
 of their native shore, where hundreds were assembled 
 to witness the engagement ? Wore ship to engage, 
 but at this moment the cutter being discovered com- 
 ing olf, backed again to take in the pilot ; and the 
 British 74 (strange as it must appear) making sail to 
 the southward and eastward — orders were given to 
 haul aboard the fore and ma n tacks, to run in ; there 
 being then in sight from our deck, a frigate and gun- 
 brig. 
 
 " The commander of the 74 had it in his power for 
 five hours to bring us at any moment to an engage- 
 ment ; our main top-sail to the mast during that time." 
 
 It was afterwards ascertained, that the ship which 
 declined battle with the President was the Plantage- 
 net 74, Capt. Lloyd for avoiding an engagement was, 
 that his crew were in a state of mutiny. 
 
 RATTLESNAKE AND ENTERPRTZE. 
 
 The U. S. brigs, Raftlesnnke, Lieut. Creighton, 
 and Entrrprize, Lieut. Renshaw, arrived at Wilming- 
 ton N. C. the former on the 9th, and the latter on the 
 7th of March, from a cruise. Three times they were 
 chased by a superior force of the enemy. On the 
 25th of February the Enterprize was chased 70 
 hours, and escaped by throwing over her guns, cut 
 ting away her anchors, and starting her water. 
 
 DEATH OF MIDSHIPMAN HALT,. 
 
 Extract of a letter from Capt. C. Gorden to the SecWy 
 
 of the navy. 
 Consfellatim, off Craney Isl;ind, March 10, ISl v. 
 "I have to report to you the loss of one of my 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 241 
 
 midshipmen, Mr. William C. Hall. He was quite 
 young, and the smallest on board ; but a youth of 
 great promise, who had so much interrested himself 
 with the offices and crew, that his loss has spread a 
 momentary gloom over the ship. He fell from the 
 mizzen top-mast head, to the quarter deck, yesterday 
 even ng, while we were in the act of sending down 
 top-gallant yards, and expired instantly. 
 
 "lie had been much accustomed to going aloft, 
 and had gone up to the mast-head, on that occasion, 
 Jis he said to the captain of the top, to observe how 
 they unrigged the yard ; having hold of the top-gallant 
 shroud, tile yard must have struck him in canting. He 
 will be buried in the church yard at Northfolk this 
 day at noon, with the ceremonies due to his grade. 
 He is from dueen Ann county, eastern shore of Ma- 
 ryland ; no parents and only a sister living. This 
 family is known to Governor Wright, the representa- 
 tive in congress from that district. 
 
 CONSTITUTION. 
 
 On the 31 of April, U. S. frigate Consfifulion, 
 Capt. Stewart arrived at Marblehead, having been 
 chased in by the British frigates Junion and Tenedos, 
 of 38 guns each, which had been in chase of her from 
 day light. The frigates, or one of them it is said got 
 within 2 or 3 miles of the Constitution, at ons time, 
 and to effect her escape she was obliged to throw over- 
 board her provisions, &c. and every thing moveable", 
 and started all her water. Some prize goods were 
 Lkewise thrown over. 
 
 She immediately anchored above Fort Sevvall, in a 
 posture of defence, her exposed situation rendering her 
 liable to an attack, should she remain there long. In 
 order to the protection of the frigate and the town, a 
 nnm'oer of heavy cannon were sent over from S-alem, 
 and Mai. Gan. Hovev ssued an o der for the Marble 
 
212 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 head battalion of artillery to hold itself in readiness 
 to act. Com. Bainbridge, to whom an express ha 1 
 been sent, dispatched assistance from the navy yard in 
 Charleston, and the company of New England Guards 
 began their March from Boston, to afibrd such aid as 
 might be required of them. But towards evening the 
 Constitution weighed anchor and came round into this 
 harbour, where she is considered in a state of securi- 
 ty. The Constitution's cruise has been about three 
 months. In the Mona passage, she chased a frigate, 
 without being able to come up with her. Her crew is 
 in fine condition, and her safe return is hailed with joy. 
 
 [Salem Gaz.] 
 
 ATTACK ON VESSELS AT PETIPAGUE. 
 
 At 4 o'clock in the morning of the 8th of April, six 
 British barges, containing 300 men, entered the port 
 of Petipague, and burnt about twenty sail of vessels. 
 Many of them were ships worth from fifteen to twenty 
 thousand dollars each. They did their business effec- 
 tually, for the vessels were all burnt to the water's 
 edge. They gave out word to the inhabitants, that 
 if they made the least resistance, they would fire the 
 town. 
 
 The property destroyed was owned in New York, 
 Middletown, Hartford and Petipague. A fine cutter 
 brig they attempted to get out, but failed, and she 
 shared the fate of the others. Siie was from 3 to 400 
 tons, and was worth about 18,000 dollars. The 
 British force is stated, by gentleman from near the 
 scene of action, to have been about 150, which is 
 probably as great a number as six boats could carry. 
 It is added, tluit the enemy remained on shore all day, 
 unmolested, and went off al)out 8 in the evening. 
 Thev came from the frigate and a gun-brig Ivinii olf 
 Say brook. 
 
 The enemy took possession of a store, where thoy 
 remained all day, part of the time amusing them- 
 
, JSAVAL MONUMENT. 24S 
 
 selves, and at night about 1000 men had been collec- 
 ted, who fortified both sides of the river, just above 
 the ferry, intending to surprize the enemy as they 
 returned, but the British, having waited until it was 
 dark, passed unobserved, by muffling their oars, or 
 iayin:> concealed in their boats, and letting them float 
 down with the tide. A number of small vessels, 
 which were in the rear of the enemy, were not mo- 
 lested. ' 
 
 LOSS OF THE FROLIC. 
 
 On the 21th of April, the United States sloop of 
 war F7'olic, J. Bainbridge commander, was captured 
 by the Orpheus frigate, without firing a gun, her ar- 
 mament having been thrown overboard in the chase. 
 By this event, we have lost a fine vessel and a gallant 
 crew, but we have lost no honor. 
 
 CRUISE OF THE AI>\.MS. 
 
 The U. S. ship Adams, Capt. Charles Morris, sai- 
 led from the Chesapia'e in January 1813 — passed to 
 the southward of Bermuda, cross<'d tlie Atlantic, cap- 
 tured a number of prizes and arrived home in safety, 
 in the month of April. The olhcial account of Capt. 
 Morris concludes thus : 
 
 " Afer a long chase on the 25th of March, the last 
 four hours of which was in thick weaiher, we captured 
 the English India ship Woodbi'idge, with a cargo 
 of rice and dye wood, but had barely taken posession 
 of her, when the weather cleared up and we discover- 
 ed a fleet of 25 sail immediately to the windward of 
 us, and two ships of war standing for us. We were 
 comp«^lled to abandon the prize with precipitation, and 
 attend to our own safety." 
 
244 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 NAVAL ARCHITECTURAL ENTERPRIZE. 
 
 Capt. Nathaniel M. Perley, late commander of the 
 «!hip Volant, which was captured on her passage from 
 Bayonne to Boston and carried into Hahfax, has con- 
 structed and nearly completed, within eight weeks, a 
 schooner, of about 110 tons, which for beauty, 
 strength and utility, is not excelled in the world. She 
 was built near Rowley Green, one mile and a half 
 from the water. No object of this nature and magni- 
 nitude has ever created more speculation of opinion, 
 than the building of this vessel ; and it was generally 
 conceived that she could never be transported to her 
 destined element ; but to the surprize of many, and 
 joy of ail, on the 2d day of May, she was started 
 from her building place, at about 10 o'clock, A. M. 
 and before 5 P. M. was landed at the water's edge. 
 The whole apparatus for the operation was prepared 
 under Capt. Perley's immediate direction. She was 
 borne by a set of trucks, of fom* wheels each, about 2 
 feet in bight, and 16 inches broad. These were drawn 
 by 100 yokes of oxen, in four strings, two of which 
 were to the forward trucks, and two attached to a ca- 
 ble, prepared for the purpose. The subject is render- 
 ed more interresting by the fact, that neither man, 
 beast, nor property received any essential injury. The 
 weight is estimated at from 100 to 120 tons. Improve- 
 ments may probably be made on this invention, which 
 will prove higldy useful to the mechanic, merchant, 
 and man of enttMprize. 
 
 On the 13 and 25 of May the flotilla of gun boats, 
 under the command of Com. Lewis, attacked a part 
 of the British blockading squadron near New London, 
 and opened a passage for 40 or 50 sail of coasters. 
 This flotilla has been of essential service on the coast 
 rescuing many vessels from tlie grasp of the English 
 with t lie most determined courage. It is stated in a 
 way that seems entitled to credit, that 17 were killed 
 and 47 wounded on board the Maidstone frigate, in 
 one of tiie engagements with the gun-boats. The 
 vessel was mucli injured. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 245 
 
 The U. S. schooner Nonsuch, Lieut Kearney, 
 stationed ofl' Charlestown S. C. in June narrowly es- 
 caped from capture by a frigate. During the chase 
 she threw overboard 11 of her guns. 
 
 On the 26th of June a combined attack of artillery, 
 marine corps, and flotilla, under Com. Barney, was 
 made on two of the enemy's frigates near Pawtuxent. 
 An officer on board the flotilla thus writes : 
 
 " We moved down with the flotilla, and joined in the 
 chorus with the artillery. Our fire was terrible. At 
 6 o'clock they began to move, and made sail down the 
 river, leaving us master of the field. Thus we have 
 again beat them and their rockets, which they did not 
 spare. P'irst, we beat ofl^ a few boats, then they in- 
 creased the number, then they added schooners, and 
 now, behold the two frigates ! all have shared the 
 same fate. We next expect ships of the line. No 
 matter, we will do our duty. Our loss was 6 killed 
 and 4 wounded. Young Asqueth (midshipman,) who 
 had just joined us, was killed." 
 
 ALLIGATOR. 
 
 On the 1st of July thelJ. S. schooner Mligator was 
 upset by a violent tornado, and sunk in 4 fathoms wa- 
 ter. She was at anchor in Port Royal sound when 
 the blast struck her : 23 were drowned. Among them 
 were 2 promising young officers, Midshipmen Brails- 
 tofd and Rogerson. The Mligator was afterwards 
 got up, by the assistance of two vessels. 
 
24.6 NAVAL MOINUMENT. 
 
 LOSS OF THE RATTLESNAKE. 
 
 Extract of a letter from Joseph Wilson, jun. purser 
 of the late U. S. brig Rattlesnake to the Sec'y of 
 the navy. 
 
 Sir, Boston, July 29, 1S14 
 
 I have the honor of making known to you the fol- 
 lowing circumstances relative to the cruise and cap- 
 ture of the late U. S. brig Rattlesnake, by order of 
 James Renshaw Esq. commander. May .31, hit. 40" 
 N. long. 33' W. fell in with a frigate and very narrow- 
 ly escaped, by throwing over all the guns, except two 
 long 9s. June 9th, lat. 47*^ N. long. 8' W. received in- 
 formation by a Russian brig from England of the Rev- 
 olution in France, and destroyed the Enghsh brig John, 
 laden with English goods. 
 
 June 22, lat. 42'^ N. long. 33, W. destroyed the En- 
 glish brig Crown Prince, laden with lish. July 11th 
 at day-light, wind south, discovered a frigate, on the 
 weather, and Cape Sable on the lee bow ; the frigate 
 proved to be the Leander, to which ship the Ratlk- 
 snake was surrendered at 8 A. M. after evei7 exertion 
 had been made to escape. 
 
 The Rattlesnake arrived in Halifax on the 13th, and 
 the Leander on the 14th inst. 
 
 I have the honor to be &.c. 
 
 JOSEPH WILSON jun. 
 
 Between the 16th and 20th of August, a large force 
 of the enemy, in all about (>() sail, several of them ships 
 of the line, arrived in the bay of Chesapeake. More 
 than 59 of them entered the Patuxent, and landed tlien 
 troops and marines about Benedict (the head of frigate 
 navigation,) about 40 miles S. E. of Washington. — 
 Others landed their troops at Port Tobacco, on the 
 Potomac. Their line stretched across the country be- 
 tween the two rivers. On the 22d Com. Barney's flo- 
 tilla, lying near Point Pleasant, at the head of the 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 2-4-7 
 
 sloop navigation ofthe Patuxent, consisting of 1 cut- 
 ter, 1 gun-boat, and 13 barges, was blown up, and the 
 men drawn off by the gallant commodore lor the pro- 
 tection of the city of Washington. On the same day, 
 the British flankers approached near the " Wood 
 yard," 12 miles from the city, where the main body of 
 the American forces under Brig. Gen. Winder were 
 posted. The line of battle was formed, and our ad- 
 vance guard offered to engage, but the enemy filed off 
 10 the left without noticin<y them. On the evening of 
 the 23d, Gen. Winder's head quarters were at the 
 " Battalion Fields," near Bladensburg, 8 miles from 
 the city. The enemy continued their march towards 
 the bridge, which they passed under a heavy fire from 
 our artillery and riflemen. When the enemy ap- 
 proached the city on the 24th, they met with a most 
 obstinate resistance. It was here that they came 
 within reach of Barney and his gallant spirits, who 
 had just gained the ground from a station near the na- 
 vy yard, and from his three 18 pounders he opened an 
 active, and most destructive fire. The fire continued 
 till the enemy had nearly reached the muzzle of the 
 guns. Greater exertions, or more determined cour- 
 age could not have been exhibited. But resistance 
 was vain. Under Com. Baney were about 400. The 
 force of the enemy amounted to between 5 and 6000. 
 The veteran commodore, who has yet all the fire and 
 spirit that distinguished him when he captured the 
 General Monk, in the early part ofthe revolutionary 
 war, fell badly wounded, and many of his brave follow- 
 ers were killed ; yet he encouraged his men, and cau- 
 tioned them not to waste their powder until the last 
 moment that it appeared possible for them to escape, 
 when he ordered a retreat. He was taken prisoner, 
 with some of his men, and was treated in the handsom- 
 est manner by the enemy. On the evening of the 24ih, 
 the British took possession of the capital. The pub- 
 lic property destroyed was thecapital ; the pres dent's 
 house; the war oifice ; the treasury office ; the fort 
 and magp.zine at Greeideaf's point ; the public stores. 
 
248 NAVAL MONUMENT. ' • 
 
 &c. at the marine barracks. The navy yard was ssl 
 on fire by order of the secretary of the navy, A new 
 frigate on the stocks, nearly ready to be launched, ra- 
 ting 44 guns, which was to be called the Essex, and 
 to be commanded by Capt. Porter, and a new sloop 
 of war, the Argus, were destroyed. The guns for the 
 Independance 74, then rigging in Boston, were saved. 
 Alexandria capitulated on the 28th. A series of 
 desperately daring exertions were made by Rodgers, 
 Porter, and Perry with the men of the two former and 
 some of the Virginia militii^, to prevent the escape of 
 the enemy's frigates from Alexandria, wMth their boo- 
 ty. All that men could do with the means they had, 
 by fire ships, barges, and hastily erected batteries, was 
 done; but the enemy got otf, taking with him 14 of 
 our vessels, laden with from 15 to 18000 barrels of 
 flour, 800 hogsheads tobacco, 150 bales cotton, and a 
 small quan ity of sugar. Twelve men were killed, and . 
 several wounded at Porter's battery ; at Perry's only 
 one was wounded, at Rodgers' none were injured. — 
 As the capture of Washington, the capitulation of Al- 
 exandria, and tiie repulse of the British from Balti- 
 more belong to the military history of the war, they 
 are here omitted, except those particulars, which are 
 connected with the honourable deeds oiour navy offi- 
 cers and sailors. 
 
 LOSS OF THE ADAMS. 
 
 On the 1st, of September, a large British force, 
 about 40 sail of vessels with troops, under the com- 
 mand of Admiral Crifiith, and Sir John Sherbrooke, 
 Governor of Nova Scotia, entered the Penobscot. — 
 The small £f;nrison in the fort at Castine discharjred 
 their guns and retired. The enemy then took posses- 
 sion without opposition. The following day they pro- 
 ceeded upthe river to Hamden, distant 35 miles where 
 lay the jldwnis frigate, Capt Morris, just returned 
 from a cruise. Capt. Morris pre[)ared himself to re- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 249 
 
 ceive them as well as hecould,by landing his guns and 
 erecting Latteries. A considerable militia force had 
 by this time assembled ; but they fled at the approach 
 of the enemy. He therefore, after a few fires, spiked 
 his guns, burnt his stores and prize goods, and blew 
 up the ship. He and his crew escaped. Capt. Mor- 
 ris was the last man who left the vessel. He made his 
 escape, after firing the train by swimming. 
 
 OFFICIAL ACCOUNT. 
 
 Letter from Capt. C. Morris to the Scc'yofthe navy. 
 Sir, Portland Sept. 8, 1814. 
 
 It is with regret that I inform you, we were com- 
 pelled to destroy the Adams, at Hamden, on the mor- 
 ning of the 3d inst. to prevent her falling into the hands 
 of the enemy. 
 
 All the officers effected thefr escape, and I believe 
 the crew, with the exception of a very few, who were 
 unable to travel. Their precise number cannot be as- 
 certained, as we were obliged to pursue diff'erent routs, 
 for the purpose of obtaining provisions, through the 
 woods between the Penobscot and Kennebeck. 
 
 I am now engaged collecting and forwarding the 
 men with the utmost despatch to Portsmouth, from 
 which place I hope soon to forward a detailed account 
 of our proceedinas. 
 
 In the mean time, I request you to believe, that the 
 officers and crew of this ship neglected no means in 
 their power for her defence. 
 
 Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 
 
 Hon. William Jones, C. MORRIS. 
 
 Secr^y of the navy. 
 
 A letter from Capt. Morris to the secretary of the 
 navy, dated Sept. 20th, giving a more particular ac- 
 count of the \ossof the Adams, concludes as follows; 
 
 " The character of my first lieutenant, Wadsworth, 
 was already too well established to require the ad- 
 
 32 
 
250 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 ditional evidence he gave of richly deserving the en- 
 tire confidence of the department and his country. 
 His brother officers of the navy and marines, equally 
 zealous and attentive, are also entitled tomytlianks 
 and their country's approbation. The, bravery of the 
 seamen and marines is unquestioned ; their uncom- 
 monly good conduct upon their march, those feelings 
 which induced them to rally round their flag, at a dis- 
 tance of 200 miles from the place of their dispersion, 
 entitled them to particular approbation, and Vender 
 them an example, which their brother tars may ever be 
 proud to imitate." 
 
 LOSS OF THE SYREN. 
 
 COPY OF A LETTER FROM CAPT. BRINE, OF HIS MAJESTy's 
 SHIP MEDWAY 74, *rO VICE ADMIRAL TYLER. 
 
 His Majesty's Ship Medivay, at sea, 
 Sir, July 12, 18U. 
 
 I have the honor to acquaint you, that crusing in 
 the execution of your orders, I this day fell in with 
 and captured, after a chase of 11 hours, nearly on a 
 wind, the United States brig of war Syren, comman- 
 ded by J. N. Nicholson, who succeeded to the com- 
 mand by the death of her captain (Parker) at sea. 
 The Syren, is pierced for IS guns, had 16 mounted, 
 viz. two 42 and twelve 241b carronades, with two long 
 9 pounders, and had a complement of 137 men ; all 
 her guns, boats, anchors, cables, and spars were 
 thrown overboard during the pursuit. The Syren had 
 received a most complete repair, previous to her sail- 
 ing, and is newly coppered. 
 
 , I have &c. 
 
 AUG. BRINE. 
 
 A court of inquiry, convened at New York on the 
 2d of September 1815, after mature deliberation on 
 ihe evidence adduced, and on all the circumstances at- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 251 
 
 tending the capture, were of opinion, "tliit no cen- 
 sure can be attached to Lieut. Com. Nicholson for 
 the loss of the Siji^en ; but, on the contrary, that his 
 conduct was that of a cool, vigilent, zealous, and ac- 
 tive officer. The court were also of opinion, that the 
 conduct of the officers and crew during the chase was 
 perfectly correct and free from censure." 
 
 SAMUEL EVANS, Prest. 
 
 Samuel R. Marshall, Acting Judge Advocate. 
 
 REPULSE OF THE BRITISH at MOBILE. 
 
 Extract of a letter from Gen, Jackson to the secr'y 
 
 of the navy. 
 
 Sir, September 17, 1814. 
 
 With lively emotions of satisfaction, I communi- 
 cate, that success has crowned the effiarts of our brave 
 soldiers in resisting and repulsing a combined British 
 naval and land force, which on the 15th inst. attacked 
 Fort Bowyer, on the point of Mobile. 
 
 I enclose a copy of the oiiicial report of Maj. Will- 
 iam Lawrence, of the 2d infantry, who commanded. 
 In addition to the particulars communicated in his 
 letter, I have learnt, that the enemy's ship which was 
 destroyed, was the Hermes, of from 24 to 28 guns, 
 Capt. the Hon. William H. Percy, senior officer in 
 the gulf of Mexico ; and the brig so considerably 
 damaged is the Sophie, 18 guns, Capt. William Lock- 
 yer. The other ship was the Carron, of from 24 to 28 
 guns, Capt. Spencer, son of Earl Spencer ; the other 
 brig's name unknown. On board the Carron, 85 men 
 were killed and wounded. 
 
 An acheavement so glorious in its consequences, 
 should be appreciated by the government ; and those 
 concerned in it are entitled to and will doubtless re- 
 ceive, the most gratifying evidence of the approba- 
 tion of their countrymen. 
 
 In the words of Major Lawrance, " where all beha- 
 
252 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 ved so well, it is unnecessary to discriminate." But 
 all being, meritorious, I beg leave to annex the names 
 of the officers, who were engaged and present, and 
 hope they will individually, be deemed worthy of dis- 
 tinction. 
 
 Maj. William Lawrence, 2d infantry ; comman- 
 ding ; Capt. Walsh of the artillery ; Captains Cham- 
 berlain, Brownlow, and Bradley of the 2d infantry 
 Capt. Sands, deputy commissary of ordnance ; Lieu- 
 enants Villerd, Sturges, Conway, H. Sanders, T. R. 
 Sanders, Brooks, Davis, and C. Sanders, all of the 
 2d infantry. 
 
 I am confident that you own feelings will lead you 
 to participate in my wishes on this subject. Permit 
 me to suggest the propriety and justice of allowing to 
 this gallant little band the value of the vessel destroy- 
 ed by them. 
 
 I have the honor, Sec. 
 
 A. JACKSON. 
 
 CAPTURE OF THE PIRATES OF BARRATARIA. 
 
 Extract of a letter from Com. Patterson to thesecr'y 
 
 of the navy. 
 
 Sir, Mio Orleans, Oct. 10, 1814. 
 
 I HAVE very great satisfaction in reporting to you, 
 that the contemplated expedition against the pirates, 
 so long and strongly established among the western 
 islands and waters of this state, of which I had the 
 honor to inform you in my letter of the 10th ult. has 
 terminated in the capture and destruction of all their 
 vessels in port — their establishments on the islands of 
 Grand Terre, Grand Isle, and Ciieniere, and the dis- 
 dispersion of the band themselves. The successful 
 issue of this attack upon them will, I trust, prevent 
 their ever collecting again, in force sutlicient to injure 
 the commerce of this state. 
 
 The force of the pirates was 20 pieces of cannon 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 253 
 
 mounted, of different calibers, and as I have learnt 
 ^ince m_y arrival, from 800 to 1000 men of all nations 
 and colors. I have brought with me to this city six 
 fine schooners and one felucca, cruisers and prizes of 
 the pirates, and one armed schooner under Carthage- 
 uion colors found in company, and ready to oppose 
 .he force under my command. 
 
 I have the honor, &.c. 
 
 DANIEL PATTERSON. 
 
 In another letter from Com. Patterson to the sec- 
 retary of the navy, honorable mention is made of 
 Lieut. Alexis, T. Shields, purser, J. D. Ferris, com- 
 mander of vessel No. 5, Lieut. T. A. C. Jones, Ac- 
 ting Lieut's Spedder and M'Keever, Sailing Mas- 
 ters Ulrick and Johnson, and Acting Lieut. Cunning- 
 ham. 
 
 On the 23d of September, by some accident, gun- 
 boat No. 140 was blown up at Ocracock. Nine per- 
 sons lost their lives by this disaster. 
 
 The United States tender, Franklin, commanded 
 by Mr. Hammersley, master's mate, was captured on 
 the Oth of November by a tender and 14 barges and 
 boats of the enemy, off Back River point, after a ve- 
 ry gallant defence of an hour and a half. The Frank- 
 lin was afterwards recaptured. 
 
 LOSS OF A FLOTILLA IN LAKE BORGNE. 
 
 Letter from Acting Surgeon Marshall to Com. 
 
 Patterson. 
 
 Sir, Mtv Orleans, Dec. 17, 1814. 
 
 I HAVE the honour to inform you, that on Tuesday 
 evening, the 13th inst, at 10 o'clock A. M. the enemy 
 landed at Pass Christianne with one hundred and six 
 barges from the squadron off Ship Island. At 2 P. 
 
254i NAVAL MOxNUMEJVT. 
 
 M.got under way, and directed their course towards 
 the U. S. gun vessels, then laying at anchor oif Bay St. 
 Louis. They did not however come up with our 
 squadron that night, which, in tlie mean time retreated 
 to the Malheraux Islands, where the wind and tide 
 forced them to remain. Wednesdav, thelkh inst. the 
 weather being calm, at 10 o'clock, A. M. an engage- 
 ment ensued, which continued about 2 hours, when 
 the enemy closed and surrounded the gun vessels in 
 every direction, keeping up a constant fire from their 
 great guns and musketry, and making frequent at- 
 tempts to carry by boarding. In this situation, our 
 gallant officers and men, resolving never to give up 
 their ships, fought with the most distinguished brave- 
 ry, for the incredible space of one hour, against such 
 an overwhelming force ; when the action terminated 
 in the capture of gun vessels No. 156, 162,163, 23, 5, 
 and despatch boat Mligator, which were immediately 
 carried to the eastward. I iinmediately pj'oceecled 
 with Mr. Johnson, to the Peiitte Coquilles, where I 
 received instructions to join the enemy, and render 
 such aid as their prisoners might require. On Friday 
 morning I arrived ai the Bay of St. Louis, and discov- 
 ered that the British had succeeded, without difficul- 
 ty, in getting one large ship, several brigs and schoon- 
 ers through Pass Mary Ann, and othtirs rapidly fol- 
 lowing them, amounting to at least 50 in number. — 
 Having made this discovery, I deemed it prudent to 
 dispense with my instructions, in order to acquaint you 
 whh this circumstance. I accordingly employed a 
 guard to convey me in the most expeditious route to 
 New Orleans, (the direct communication being in pos- 
 session of the enemy.) Friday evening I discovered 
 10 schooners in the mouth of Pearl river, and five gun 
 vessels at the east entrance of tlie Rigolets, underway 
 and steering towards the Petitie Coquilles. 
 
 I have no doubt the above vessels are constructed 
 for those waters, and that in ten days the British will 
 have from 20 to U) sail in Lake Ponchartrain. 
 I have tilt' honor Si^c. 
 
 GEORGE MARSHALL. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 255 
 
 The American flotilla carried in all 23 guns and 
 182 men. The British, 42 guns and 1200 men. — 
 Capt. Lockyer received three wounds in the action. 
 From the nature of the engagement, and the observa- 
 tions made by our ofticers while prisoners, the enemy's 
 loss in killed and wounded may be estimated at more 
 than 300, among whom are an unusual proportion of 
 officers. Our loss was comparatively small. 
 
 In May 1815, a court of inquiry was held in the na- 
 val arsenal, at New Orleans, for the purpose of inves- 
 tigating the conduct of the oflicers and men, late of the 
 late division of United States gun-vessels, under Lieut. 
 T. A. C. Jones, captured by the enemy December 
 14, 1814. They were acquitted in the most honora- 
 ble manner. The opinion of the court concludes as 
 follows : " With the clearest evidence for their guide, 
 the court experience the most heartfelt gratification 
 in declaring the opinion, that Lieut. Com. Jones, and 
 his gallant supporters^Lieutenants Spedderand M'- 
 Keever, Sailing Masters Ulrich and Ferris — their offi- 
 cers and men, performed their duty on this occasion, 
 in the most able and gallant manner, and that the ac- 
 tion has added another and distinguished honor to 
 the naval character of our country." 
 
 LOSS OF U. S. SCHOONER CAROLINA. 
 
 Extract of a letter from Capt. Henley to Com. 
 
 Patterson. 
 Sir, Keiv Orleans, Dec. 28, Ibi*. 
 
 I HAVE the honor to inform you, that after you 
 left here on the 26th inst, in pursuance to your order, 
 every possible exertion was made to move the schoon- 
 er Carolina higher up the river, and near Gen. Jack- 
 son's camp, without success ; the wind being at N. N. 
 W. and blowing fresh, and too scant to^get under 
 way, and the current too rapid to move her by warp 
 inij, which I had endeavored to do with my crew. 
 
256 NAVAL MOxNUMENT. 
 
 At day light, on the morning of the 27th, the ene- 
 my opened upon the Carolina a hattery of five guns, 
 from which they threw shells and hot shot; we returned 
 their fire with the long 12 pounder, the only gun on 
 board, which could reach across the river. The air 
 being light rendered it impossible to get under way. 
 Finding the vessels in a sinking condition, expecting 
 every minute she would blow up, at a little after sun- 
 rise I reluctantly gave orders for the crew to abandon 
 her, which was effected with the loss of one killed and 
 six wounded : a short time afier I had succeeded in 
 getting the crew on shore, I had the extreme mortifi- 
 cation of seeing her blow up. It affords me great 
 pleasure to acknowledge the able assistance I received 
 from Lieuts. Norris and Crowley and Sailing Mas- 
 ter Hatter, and to say that my officers and crew be- 
 haved on this occasion as well as on the 23d, when un- 
 der your own eye, in a most gallant manner. 
 
 I have Slc. 
 JOHN D. HENLEY. 
 
 The naval officers and sailors, of the New Orleans 
 station, fought with uncommon bravery in the glori- 
 ous battle of the Sth of January 1815, of which honor- 
 able notice is taken m the following letter 
 
 LETTER FROM W. C. C. CLAIBORNE TO COM. PATTERSON. 
 
 Sir, JVeio Orleans, Jan. 28, IS15. 
 
 I HAVE been a witness of your unwearied exertions 
 and steady firmness during the late struggle ; I am ve- 
 ry sensible of the obligations Louisiana is under to you 
 and to the portion of tlie U.S. navy, which you com- 
 mand, for a most zealous and effectual co-operation in 
 the defence of its capital. Receive then yourself, and 
 he good enough to convey to the officers and men un- 
 der your orders, my wariviest thanks. The misfortune 
 which attended our gun-boats on the lakes is, on ac- 
 count of the many brave men who fell on the o<;casion, 
 
.NAVAL MONUMENT. 257 
 
 cause of sincere regret ; but we know that the unequal 
 conflict was for a length of time, gloriously maintain- 
 ed ; nor was the flag of our country struck, imtil oar 
 gallant tars had added still more lustre to the naval 
 character of America ; a character, which I sincerely 
 hope may long live to sustain, and in those conspicu- 
 ous stations, which you so well deserve to occupy. 
 1 have the iionor to be &.c. 
 WILLIAM C. C. CLAIBORNE. 
 
 PEACOCK 
 
 The United States sloop of war Peacock, Capt. L. 
 Warrington, arrived at New York on the 30(h of Oc- 
 tober 1815, after a successful cruise of nine months. 
 During her cruise she touched at the Islands of St. 
 Paul, Amsterdam, Java, and Bourbon. From her 
 ditierent captures she obtained about 15,000 dollars in 
 silver and 4 or 5,000 ujore in gold, besides a large 
 quantity of valuable goods. Among the vessels cap- 
 tured by the Peacock was the ship J^'autilus, 14 guns 
 and 130 men, taken after a single broadside, which 
 killed 7 and wounded 16 men. 
 
 A FACT WORTHY OF RECORD. 
 
 The arrival of the United States sloop Peacock, 
 from her last cruise against the British, and the con 
 elusion of the war against the States of Barbary, by 
 the squadron under the command of Com. Decatur, 
 have given rise to the following unprecedented histori- 
 cal fact, to wit : The declaration, prosecution, and 
 successful termination of one naval war, before all the 
 cruisers of a previous naval war had come in. 
 
 LAKE HURON. 
 
 iNthesummer of 1814, the squadron under Com. 
 Sinclair, on Lake Huron, captured the British schooii 
 
 33 
 
25S NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 er Mmk, laden with flour. The Mink was built on 
 Lake Superiour, and was a new vessel ; also, his Brit- 
 annic Majesty's schooner J\ancy, of 3 guns ; a fint3 
 vessel and richly laden with valuable stores. The 
 schooner Perseverance, laden with provisions, was 
 captured on Lake Superiour by Com. Sinclair, and 
 was destroyed in passing down the falls of St. Mary's. 
 Com. Sinclair, having destroyed all the naval force 
 of the enemy above the size of batteaux, on the upper 
 lakes, in August returned to Erie, leaving the U. S. 
 schooner Scorpion and Tygress, under the command 
 of Lieuts. Turner and Champlin, for the purpose of 
 blockading Nattawasauga river. On the night of the 
 3dof September, the Tygress was captured by the 
 barges of the enemy, and on the 5th the Scorjnon 
 shared the same fate. 
 
 Extract from the opinion of a court of inquiry, held 
 on board the United States Ship Independence, in 
 Boston harbour, to investigate the causes of the 
 capture of the Scorpion and Tygress. 
 
 " The court find, that after Lieut. Turner had pro- 
 ceeded to cruise off French river, on the night of the 
 3d of September last, the Tygress was attacked by 
 the enemy in five large boats, (one of them mounting 
 a 6 pounder, and the others a 3 pounder each,) and by 
 19 canoes, carrying about 300 sailors, soldiers, and 
 Indians, under the command of an English naval offi- 
 cer : that owing to the extreme darkness of the night, 
 the enemy were not perceived until they were close on 
 board ; nor were they then discovered but by the sound 
 of their oars. 
 
 " After they were discovered, every exertion was 
 made by Lieut. Champlin, his oificers and men, to de- 
 fend his schooner, that bravery and skill could sug- 
 gest ; and not until all the officers were cut down, did 
 the overwhelming numbers of the enemy prevail. — 
 The enemy, having thus captured the Ty<j:ress, and 
 having mounted on lier tiieir 6 and 3 pounders, and 
 placed on board a complement of from 70 to 100 pick- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 259 
 
 ed men, remained at St. Joseph's until the "5th of 
 September,. On the evening of that day the court find, 
 that the Scorpion returned from cruising olf French 
 river, and to anchor within five miles of the Tygress, 
 without any information having been received, or sus- 
 picion entertained by Lieut. Turner, of her capture. 
 At the dawn of the next day, it appears that the gun- 
 ner having charge of the watch, passed word to the 
 mailing master, that the Tygress was bearing down 
 under American colours. In a few minutes after, she 
 ran along side of the Scorpion, fired, boarded, and 
 carried her. 
 
 " It appears to the court, that the loss of the Scor- 
 pion is, in a great measure, to be attributed to the 
 want of signals ; and owing to this deficiency, no sus- 
 picions were excited as to the real character of the 
 Tygress ; and from some of the English olhcers and 
 men on board of her being dressed in the clothes of 
 her former officers and men, and the residue gf the en- 
 emy's crew being concealed, a surprise was effected, 
 which precluded the possibility of defence. 
 
 " The court are therefore of opinion, from the whole 
 testimony before them, that the conduct of Lieut 
 Turner was that of a discreet aiui vigilant officer." 
 
 JOHN SHAW, Pres, 
 W. C. xVlwyn, Judge Adcocdte. 
 Approved, B. W. Crowinshield. 
 
 LAKE ERIE. 
 
 On the afternoon of the Sth of October 1812, two 
 British armed vessels, the Cahdonia and Detroit (for- 
 merly the American brig Adams) arived at fort Erie, 
 from^ Maiden, and anchored under the guns of the fort. 
 Capt. Elliot, the naval commander on Lake Erie, im- 
 mediately conceived the project of cutting these ves- 
 sels out of the harbour in the course of the succeed- 
 ing night : Accordingly, the necessary arrangements 
 having been made, about 100 volunteers, consisting 
 principally of sailors, under the command of Capt. 
 
260 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Elliott, armed with sabres and pistols, embarked in 
 two boats about midniglit, and rowing into the lake 
 above the vessels, drifted down with the current till they 
 were hailed by a sentinel from one of the vessels, when 
 they sprang to their oars, and closing in upon the ves- 
 sels, they boarded them, drove the Britisli below the 
 decks, cut the cables, and towed them down the lake. 
 The night being dark and cloudy, the vessel run 
 aground ; the Caledonia ran close into the ferry at 
 Black Rock, and the Detroit on the upper end of 
 Squaw Island, near the middle of Niagara river. In 
 their passage down and while they were aground, the 
 British opened their batteries upon them, and the 
 Americans returned the fire from the Detroit; but 
 finding they could not bring the guns to bear upon the 
 enemy to advantage, they left her. About 10 o'clock 
 next morning, a company of British regulars from 
 Fort Erie boarded the Detroit, with an intention to 
 destroy the military stores with which she was princi 
 pally laden ; but they were dislodged by a detachment 
 of volunteers, under the command of Capt. Cyrenus 
 Chapin, who crossed over to Squaw Island for that 
 purpose. 
 
 About 3 o'clock in the afternoon of the same day 
 the British boarded the Detroit a second time, and 
 were again dislodged. In this second attempt three 
 of the British were taken prisoners, and a considera- 
 ble nnm!)er of them wounded. During the principal 
 part of the day the British kept up a heavy fire from 
 their batteries, upon the vessels for the purpose of de- 
 stroying them, and to prevent them from falhng into 
 our hands. 
 
 The Caledonia , however, with her cargo of fur, es- 
 timated at $150,000, was secured by our men, who, 
 afer removing the principal part of the military stores 
 frou) tlie Detroit set her on fire and abnndoned her. 
 
 In this gallant enterprize, about 50 of the British 
 were takrn prisoners, and 28 prisoners of the regiment 
 of Gen. Hull's army, retaken. On our part, 4 were 
 killed and 7 wounded ; one killed in boarding, and 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 261 
 
 the others from the batteries on the British shore. 
 Among the killed was the brave Maj. Cuyler, aid to 
 Gen. Hull. He was buried with the lionors of war. 
 
 The Detroit mounted 61b. long guns, and had 56 
 men. On board her were the Americans mentioned 
 above. The Caledonia mounted 2 small guns, and 
 had a crew of 12 men. The Detroit, formely the 
 United States vessel of war Adams, was captured by 
 the British, on the 16th of August 1812, when Gen. 
 Hull's army, and the town of Detroit were surrender- 
 ed to the enemy. 
 
 For an account of Perry's victory* see page 85. 
 
 LAKE CHAMPLAIN. 
 LOSS OF THE GROWLER AND EAGLE. 
 
 On the morning of the 2d of June 1813, the Groiv- 
 ler and Eagle were ordered from Plattsburg to the 
 lines, under the command of Lieut. Sidney Smith, in 
 consequence of British gun-boats coming into our 
 waters, and annoying our small water craft. Next 
 morning they discovered a British gun-boat and im- 
 mediately gave her chase ; siie fired an alarm gun, 
 and in fifieen minutes four others came up to her assis- 
 tance, and commence 1 firing upon our vessels, at the 
 lower end of Ash Island, (six miles within the prov 
 ince.) In an hour and a half the enemy had landed 
 one hundred regulars from the Isle-aux-Noix, on each 
 side of the river, opposite our vessels, within musket 
 shot. The current being strong, and wind southerly, 
 it was impossible for our vessels to get back. They, 
 however, continued an incessant and heavy fire, and 
 kept the enemy on shore at sucii a respectable distance, 
 that their fire had no effect. 
 
 • Immediately after Com, Perry left the Lawrence, a sailor, who was left be- 
 hind, determining not to. fall into the hands of the enemy, leaped overboard and 
 swam to the J\''iagara. The brave tar reached the JViagara almotit as soon as 
 the commodore. This anecdote was mentioned by the commodore himself who 
 was an eye witness of it. The sailor is exhibited in the plate representing the 
 battle. 
 
262 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 The action lasted from five to half past nine o'clock, 
 A. M. when the Ecii^le, being no longer able to sup- 
 port her weight of metal, (she being very old) went 
 down on firing her last broadside ; the Growler was 
 at length compelled to yield to superior force. 
 
 Our loss was one killed, six wounded, and lOG ta- 
 ken prisoners. The loss of the enemy is not known. 
 
 The Growler carried ten 121b carronades ; the 
 Eagle, 10 guns. 
 
 In August 1813, a considerable British force lan- 
 ded at Plattsburg, destroying the pubhc buildings and 
 stores, and immediately afterwards abandoned the 
 place. 
 
 Soon after the battle of the 11th of September,* 
 a quantity of shells &lc. were taken out of the 
 lake of which mention is made in the following extract 
 of a letter from Com. Macdonough to the secretary 
 of the navy. 
 
 JVovember, 6, 1814. 
 
 " I have the honor to inform you, that about six 
 tons 8 inch shells have been taken out of the lake by 
 us at this place, which were thus secreted by the ene- 
 my in his late incursion into this coun'.ry. 
 
 " A transport sloop has also recently been raised at 
 'Isle La Motte, which was sunk by the enemy, loaded 
 with their naval stores, and various instruments of war. 
 On weighing the powder taken on l)oard the enemy's 
 squndion, we find 17,0001bs. with shot in proportion, 
 besides much fixed ammunition." 
 
 LAKE ONTARIO. 
 
 On the morning of the 19th of July 1812, Capt. 
 M. T. Woolsey, of the Oneida, lying in Sncket's bar 
 hour, discovered from the mnst-head of his brig, five 
 
 • For an account i.f Macdonough s vuiu.ty . >;< e p.igi- l-lS. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 263 
 
 British sail, viz. the Royal George of 2i< guns, the 
 Prince Regent of 22, the Elmira of 20, the Seneca 
 of 18, and one other, about five leagues distant, beat- 
 ing up for the harbour, with a wind ahead. Soon 
 after sun-rise, the Prince Regent brought to, and 
 captured the custom-house boat about 7 miles from the 
 harbour, on her return from Gravelly Point. The 
 boat's crew were liberated and set on shore with a 
 message to Col. Bellenger, the commandant at the har- 
 bour, demanding the surrender of the Oneida, and the 
 late British schooner JVelson, seized of a breach for 
 the revenue laws, and fitting for a privateer, and de- 
 claring, that in case of a refusal to surrender the ves- 
 sels, the squadron wx)ul(l burn the village, or lay the 
 inhabitants under contribution. Soon after this, Capt. 
 Woolsey left the harbour in the Onedia, and ran down 
 within a league of the squadron, when he returned and 
 moored his vessel on a line with the battery. Capt 
 Woolsey, being the most experienced engineer pre- 
 sent, left the Onedia under the command of a lieuten- 
 ant, went on shore, and took the command of a 32 
 pounder, mounted the day before on the battery, oth- 
 er guns of which consisted of 9 pounders. By this 
 the enemy had arrived within gun-shot, the Royal 
 George, ns a flag ship, ahead, and firing was commenced 
 from the 32 pounder. This was returned by the squad- 
 ron, which stood off* and on — and a brisk cannonading 
 was reciprocally continued for more than two hours. 
 All our guns were well manned and served, and it 
 was plainly discovered, that the Royal George and 
 Prince Regent were much injured. As the flag ship 
 was wearing to give another broadside, a ball from the 
 32 pounder was seen to strike her and rake her com- 
 pletely ; after which the squadron fired a few guns, 
 and bore away for Kingston. 
 
 On the 31st of July, the Julia of 3 guns was fitted 
 out at Sacket's harbour with orders to proceed to 
 Ogdensburg. After entering the St. Lawrence, she 
 
264 :javal monument. 
 
 was attacked by the Earl Moira of 18 guns, and the 
 Duke of Gloucester oi" 10 guns. The action coMtinii- 
 ed 3 hours and a half, during vvhicli time the Duke 
 hauled up within half a mile of the Julia, and seemed 
 preparing to board her, when two well directed shots 
 from the Julia's 32 pounder forced her to abandon the 
 idea. At 8 o'clock in the evening she weighed anchor, 
 and proceeded to Ogdensburg. 
 
 In October 1812 Com. Chauncey took the com- 
 mand of the American fleet on this lake. 
 
 On the 7th of November, Com.. Chauncey's squad- 
 ron sailed from Sacket's harbour on a cruise ; on the 
 8th fell in with the Royal George, and chased her into 
 the Bay of Q,uanti ; on the morning of the 9th, she was 
 discovered lying in Kingston channel. Our vessels 
 gave chase and pursued her into the harbour of Kings- 
 ton, and fought her and the batteries for one hour and 
 forty-five minutes. The Royal George being well 
 protected and the wind blowing directly in, it was 
 thought prudent to desist. American loss in this en- 
 gagement was 1 killed and 3 wounded. On the 10th 
 the enemy's schooner Governor Simcoe was chased in- 
 to Kings on. She narrowly escaped under a heavy 
 fire from the Governor Tomkins, the Hamilton, and 
 the Julia, which cut her very much. The commo- 
 dore returned on the 12th. In this cruise our squad- 
 ron captured 3 Britisli trading schooners, on board one 
 of which was Capt. Brock, ol' the 4i9ih British regi- 
 ment, brother of the late Gen. Brock. An interesting 
 private letter, describing the engagement at Kingslon 
 harbour, from an officer under Com. Chauncey, con- 
 cludes as follows: "Just as we were going into ac- 
 tion, Lieut. W , taking a little packet out of his 
 
 pocket, said to me, ' My good fellow, here is a cigar 
 for you ; I heard you wish for one to day ; If I should 
 be popped otf, when you [)uirone of them, think of me:' 
 The gift was a triile, but the time, and the manner^ 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 265 
 
 and the circumstances, which accompanied it, and the^ 
 great alterations, which a minute miglit produce, were 
 all such as to excite sensations, which before I have 
 never felt. I have a thousand similar anecdotes to 
 tell you, when we meet again. Throughout the ac- 
 tion this officer was as cool, brave, and gallant as Nel- 
 son. Our sailors had no giog ; they want no stimulus 
 of that kind ; they seem to have no fear of death. 1 was 
 by the side of Garnet a few minutes before he fell. 
 He was laughing heartily, and in that act was cut in 
 two by a nine pound shot. I afterwards saw his 
 countenance ; it seemed as if the smile had not yef left 
 it. This disaster only exasperated our seamen ; they 
 prayed and entreated to be laid close aboard the Roy- 
 al George only five minutes, 'just to revenge Garnet's 
 death.' When I look back upon the scene, I cannot 
 but acknowledge that a kind Providence has kept us 
 under his special care and protection." 
 
 CAPTURE OF YORK. 
 
 The American fleet left Sacket's harbour on the 
 25th of April 1813, for the purpose of Conveying Gen. 
 Dearborn, and the expedition under his command, a- 
 gainst the British post at York, where the fleet arrived 
 on the 27th. The expedition was completely success- 
 ful. The most important particulars relative to this 
 event are given in the following extracts of a letter from 
 Com. Chauncey to the secretary of the navy. 
 
 United States ship Madison, at anchor off York, 
 
 Sir, April 2^, 1813. 
 
 The debarcation commenced about eight o'clock 
 A. M . and was completed about 10. The wind blow- 
 ing heavy from the eastward, the boats fell to leeward 
 of the position fixed upon, and were in consequence ex- 
 posed to a galling fire from the enemy, who had taken 
 a position in a thick wood near where the first troops 
 landed; however, the cool intrepidity of the officers 
 34 
 
S66 NAVAL MONUMENT 
 
 and men overcame every obstacle. Their attack, upon 
 the enemy was so vigorous, that he fled in every direc- 
 tion, leaving a great many of his killed and wounded 
 upon the field. As soon as the troops were landed I 
 directed the schooner to take a position near the fort, 
 in order that the attack upon them by the army and 
 navy might be simultaneous. The schooners were ob- 
 liged to beat up to their position, which they did in ve- 
 ry handsome order under a heavy fire from the ene- 
 my's batteries, and, taking a position within six hun- 
 dred yards of their principal fort, opened a heavy can- 
 nonade upon the enemy, which did great execution, 
 and very much contributed to their final reduction. 
 
 The troops as soon as landed were formed under the 
 immediate order of Brig, Gen, Pike, who led in a 
 most gallant manner the attack upon the forts, and af- 
 ter having carried two redoubts, in their approach to 
 the principal work the enemy having previously laid a 
 train, blew up his m-agazine, which in its effects upon 
 our troops was dreadful, liaving killed and wounded 
 a great many, and amongst the former, the ever to bf 
 lamented Brig, Gen. Pike, who fell at the head of his 
 column by a contusion received by a heavy stone from 
 the magazine. His death at this time is much to be 
 regretted, as he had the perfect confidence of the ma- 
 jor general ; and his known activity, zeal and experi- 
 ence make his loss a nalional one. 
 
 The enemy set fire to some of his principal stores, 
 containing large quantities of naval and military s! ores, 
 as well as a ship upon the stocks nearly finished. 
 The only vessel found here is the Duke of Gloucester 
 undergoing repairs — the Priitce Regent left here on 
 the 2ith for Kingston. 
 
 I have to regret the death of Midshipman Thomp- 
 fion and Hatfield, and several seauMin killed — the ex- 
 act numb(M' I do not know, as the returns from the 
 difierent vessels have not yet been received. 
 
 I cannot speak in too much praise of the cool intre- 
 pidity of the oflicers and men gi^nerally under my 
 rx)mmand, and i feel myself p;irticularly ind(d)ted to 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 2&1 
 
 the officers commanding vessels, for their zeal in sec- 
 onding all my views. 
 
 I have the honor to be, &,c. 
 
 ISAAC CHAUNCEY 
 Hon. William Jones. 
 
 List of killtd and wounded on hoard Com. Chaun- 
 cey's squadron in the attack on York, Canada. 
 
 Killed — John Hatfield, midshipman; Benjamin 
 Quereau, sailmaker ; Israel Clark, seaman ; Mr. 
 Thompson, midshipman. 
 
 Wounded — John Campl>ell, seaman, badly; Rich- 
 ard Welsh, blackman slightly ; David C. Burrill, 
 seaman, slightly ; Benjamin Hacker, seaman, badly 
 John Ratler, do. do. Jno. Stimas, do. slightly ; John 
 Patterson, do. badly ; Lemuel Bryant, do. do. 
 
 William Buckley was wounded in the attack on 
 Fort George, (since dead ;) William Wills was also 
 wounded. 
 
 capture of fort GEORGE. 
 
 Com. Chauncey, having returned to Sacket's har- 
 bour, sailed again on the 22dof May for Fort George. 
 Our land and naval forces united captured this place 
 on the 28th. Com. Chauncev's official account of 
 this expedition concludes as follows : 
 
 " Where all behaved so well, it is difficult to select 
 any one for commendation ; yet in doing justice to 
 Lieut. M'Phersen I do not detract from the merits 
 of others. He was fortunate in placing himself in a 
 situation, where he rendered very important services 
 in covering the troops so completely, that their loss 
 was trifling. 
 
 Capt. Perry joined me from Erie on the evening of 
 the 25th, and very gallantly volunteered his services ; 
 and I have much pleasure in acknowledging the great 
 
268. NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 assistance which I received from him in arranging and 
 superintending the debarcation of the troops — he was 
 present at every point where he could be useful, un- 
 der showers of musketry, but fortunately escaped un- 
 hurt. We lost but 1 killed and 2 wounded, and no 
 injury done to the vessels." 
 
 ATTACK ON SACKET's HARBOUR. 
 
 The British fleet, having on board 1200 men under 
 Sir George Prevost, arrived otf Sacket's harbour on 
 the 29th of May. At this time the American squad- 
 ron were cruising in a distant part of the lake. On 
 the 29th, the enemy made a bold attack, but were 
 completely repulsed by the troops under the command 
 of Gen. Brown, with the loss of about 200, in killed 
 and wounded. Among the former were an adjutant 
 general, two majors, several captains, &.c. The 
 American loss was about 150 killed and wounded. 
 Among the killed were two excellent otiicers. Col. 
 Mills and Col. Backus. On the evening preceeding 
 the attack the British captured 12 of our barges. 
 
 The officers left in charge of this station, unfortu- 
 nately set fire to the naval store-houses, hospital, and 
 marine barracks, by which the valuable stores taken 
 at York, and the stores lor the use of our fleet, were 
 consumed. Soon after this affair, Com. Chauncey 
 returned to Sacket's harbour. 
 
 On the 16th of June, Lieut. Wolcott Chauncey, 
 with the Lady of thr Lake, fell in with and captured 
 the schooner Lady Murray, from Kingston, bound to 
 York, with an ensign (Geo. Charles 3Ierce) and 15 
 non-commissioned oIHcers and privates, belonging to 
 the 41st and 104th regiments, loaded with provisions, 
 powder, shot, and fixed ammunition. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 269 
 
 On the 17th of July a small expedition, aided by 
 40 soldiers, lent to Com. Chuuncey by Gen. Lewis, 
 sailed from Sacket's harbour on board two small row- 
 boats, with a 16 pounder in each, to the head of the 
 St. Lawrence where they captured a fine gun-boat, 
 mounting a 24 pounder 14 batteaux loaded, 4 officers 
 and 61 men. 
 
 The American fleet arrived at York on the 31st 
 of July. Com. Chauncey's official account of their 
 proceedings concludes as follows: "We run the 
 schooner, into the upper harbour, landed the marines 
 and soldiers under the command of Col. Scott, with- 
 out opposition, found several hundred barrels of flour 
 and provisions in the public store-house, five pieces 
 of cannon, eleven boats, and a quantity of shot, shells 
 and other stores, all which were either destroyed or 
 brought away. On the 1st of August just after re- 
 ceiving on board all the vessels could take, I ordered 
 the barracks and the public store-house to be burnt." 
 
 LOSS OF THE HAMILTON AND SCOURGE. 
 
 On the 7th of August the British fleet appeared off 
 Sacket's harbour. Com. Chauncey immediately set 
 sail with his squadron, and made every exertion to 
 bring the enemy to action. The British however de- 
 clined an engagement. The principal occurrences 
 during this cruise are related in the following extracts 
 from commodore's official account : " On the 8th, at 
 2 A. M. missed two of our schooners ; at day-light 
 discovered the missing schooners to be the Hamilton 
 and Scourge. Soon after spoke Governor Tompkins, 
 who informed that the Hamilton and Scourge both 
 overset and sunk in a heavy squall, about 2 o'clock, 
 and, distressing to relate, every soul perished except 
 sixteen. This fatal accident deprived me at once of 
 
270 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 two valuable officers, Lieut. Winter and Sailing Mas- 
 ter Osgood, and two of my best schooners, mounting 
 together 19 guns. 
 
 " On the 9th, about half past 10, the enemy tacked 
 and stood after us. At 11, the rear of our line open- 
 ed his fire upon the enemy ; in about 15 minutes the 
 fire became general from the weather line, which was 
 returned from the enemy. At half past 11 ,the weather 
 line bore up. and passed to the leeward, except the 
 Growler and Julia, which soon after tacked to the 
 southward, which brought the enemy between them 
 and me. Filled the main top-sail and edged away 
 two points to lead the enemy down, not only to engage 
 him to more advantage, but to lead him from the 
 Growler and Julia. He, however, kept his wind un- 
 til he completely separated those two vessels from the 
 rest of tlie squadron, exchanged a few shot with this 
 ship (the General Pike) ris he passed, without injury 
 to us, and made sail afar our two schooners. Tack- 
 ed and stood after him. At 12 (midnight) finding that 
 I must either separate from the rest of the squadron, 
 or relinquished the hope of saving the two which had 
 separated, I re'uctan'Jy gave up the pursuit. The fir- 
 ing was continued between our 2 schooners and the 
 enemy's fleet until about 1 A.M. when, I presume, 
 they were obliged to surrender to a force so much 
 their superior." 
 
 Extract of a letter from Com. Isaac Chaitncey to 
 the Secretary of the navy. 
 
 On board the U. S. ship Gen. Pike, off Duck Lland, 
 Sir, Sept. 13, ISI.3. 
 
 On the 7lh, at day light, the enemy's fleet was dis- 
 covered close in witli Niagara river, wind from the 
 southward. Made the signal, and weiglied with the 
 fleet (prepared for action) and stood out of (he river 
 after hiin ; he immfHliately made all .sail to the north- 
 ward. We made sail in chase wiih our heavy schoo- 
 ners in low, and have continued the chase all round 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 271 
 
 the lake night and day, until yesterday morning when 
 she succeeded in getting into Amherst Bay, which is so 
 little known to our pilots, and said to be full of shoals, 
 that they are not willing to take me in there. I Shall 
 Iiowever (unless driven from my station by a gale of 
 wind) endeavour to watch him so close as to prevent 
 his getting out upon the lake. 
 
 During our long chase we frequently got within from 
 one to two miles of the enemy, but our heavy sailing 
 scliooners prevented our closing with him, until the 
 11th, off Gennessee river, we carried a breeze with us 
 while he lay becalmed to within about three quarters 
 of mile of him, when he took the breeze and we had 
 a running fight of three and a half hours, but by his 
 superior sailing he escaped me and run into Amherst 
 Bay yesterday morning. In the course of our chase 
 on the 11th, I got several broadsides from this ship 
 upon the enemy, which must have done him considera- 
 ble injury, as many of the shot were seen to strike 
 him, and people were observed over the sides plugging 
 shot holes. A few shot struck our hull, and a little 
 rigging was cut, but nothing of importance — not a 
 man was hurt. 
 
 1 was much disappointed that Sir James refused to 
 light me, as he was so much superior in point of force 
 both in guns and men — having upwards of 20 guns 
 more than we have, and having a greater weight of 
 shot. 
 
 This ship, the Madison, and the Sylph have each a 
 schooner constantly in tow, yet the others cannot sail 
 as fast as the enemy's squadron, which gave him deci- 
 dedly the advantage, and puis it in his power to en- 
 engage me when and how he chooses. 
 
 I have the honor to be, &.c. 
 Hon. William Jones, ISAAC CHAUNCEY. 
 
 Secr'y of the navy. 
 
 The British squadron was blockaded four days in 
 Amiierst Bay, when, by the aid of a heavy wind from 
 the westward, they escaped and succeeded in getting 
 into Kingstown. 
 
272 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Com. Chauncey, having ascertained that the British 
 squadron was in York Bay, sailed from Niagara on 
 the 27th of September. The most important events 
 of this cruise are related in the following extracts from 
 the commodore's official letter : 
 
 " On the 28th, at 10 minutes past meridian, the en- 
 emy, finding that we were closing fast with him, and 
 that he must either risk an action, or suffer his two 
 rear vessels to be cut off, tacked in succession, begin- 
 ingat the van, hoisted his colors and commenced a well 
 directed fire at this ship, for the purpose of covering 
 his rear, and attacking our rear as he passed to the 
 leeward. Perceiving his intention, I was determined 
 to disappoint him ; therefore as soon as the [Fo//'(the 
 leading ship) passed the centre of his line, and abeam 
 of us, I bore up in succession (preserving our line) 
 for the enemy's centre. This manoeuvre not only 
 covered our rear, but hove him into confusion ; he 
 immediately bore away ; we had however closed so 
 near as to bring our guns to bear with effect, and in 
 20 minutes the main and mizzen top-mast and main 
 yard of the IVolf were shot away. He immediately 
 put before the wind, and set all sail upon his fore- 
 mast. I made the signal for the ileet to make all 
 sail ; the enemy, however, keeping dead before the 
 wind, was able to outsail most of our squadron. I 
 continued the chase until near 3 o'clock, during which 
 time I was enabled in this ship (the Genral Pike) 
 with the Asp in tow, to keep wiihin point blank shot 
 of the enemy, and sustained the whole of his fire dur- 
 ing the chase. 
 
 " At 15 miniites before 3 o'clock A. M. I very re- 
 luctantly relinquished the pursuit of a beaten enemy. 
 The reasons that led to this deleimination, were such 
 as I flatter myself you will npprove. 
 
 " The loss sustained by this ship was considerable, 
 owin<^ to her being so long exposed to the fire of the 
 whole of the enemy's fleet ; but our most serious loss 
 was occasioned by the bursting of one of our guns, 
 which killed and wounded 22 men, and tore up the top- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 273 
 
 gallant forecastle, which rendered the gun upon that 
 deck useless. We had 4 other guns cracked in the 
 muzzle, vvliich rendered their use extremely doubtful. 
 Our main top-gallant mast was shot away in the ear- 
 ly part of the action, and the bowsprit, fore and main 
 mast wounded, rigging and sails much cut up, and a 
 number of sliot in our hull, several of which were .be- 
 tween wind and water, and 27 men killed and wound- 
 ed, including those by the bursting of the gun. We 
 have repaired nearly all our damages and are ready to 
 meet the enemy. During our chase one, if not two, 
 of the enemy's small vessels were completely in our 
 power, if I could have been satisfied with so partial 
 victory, but I was so sure of the whole, that I passed 
 them unnoticed, by which means they finally escaped." 
 In this letter mention is made of the conduct of Capt. 
 Crane, Lieut. Brown, Lieut. Finch, Capt. Woolsey 
 and Capt. Sinclair. 
 
 CAPTURE OF TflE HAMILTOIV AND CONFIANCE. 
 
 Letter from Com. Chaunccy to the Secr^'y of the navy. 
 il. S. ship Gen. Pike, Sachet's harbour. 
 Sir, Oct. 6, IS13. 
 
 I HAVE the pleasure to inform you, that I arrived 
 heretliis morning, with 5 of the enemy's vessels, which 
 I fell in with and captured last evening, off the Ducks. 
 They were part of a ileet of seven sail, which left 
 York on Sunday with 2.34 troops on board, bound to 
 Kingston. Of this fleet five were captured, one burnt 
 and one escaped ; the prisoners amounting to nearly 
 300, besides having upwards of 300 of our troops on 
 board from Niagara, induced me to run into poit for 
 the purpose of landing both. 
 
 I have the additional pleasure of informing you, 
 that amongst the captured vessels are the Hamilton 
 and Confiance, late U. S. schooners Julia and Groio- 
 ler;* the others are gun vessels. 
 
 I have the honor to be, &.c. 
 
 ISAAC CHAUNCEY. 
 
 * See page 270. 35 
 
274 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 LETTER FROM COM. CHAUNCEY TO THE SEc'y OF THE NAVY 
 
 Sir, Sachet's harbour, May 1, 1814. 
 
 I AM happy to have it in my power to inform you, 
 that the United States ship Superiour was launched 
 this morning without accident. The Superiour is an 
 uncommonly beautiful and well built ship, something 
 larger than the President, and could mount 64 guns, 
 if it was thought advisable to put as many upon her. — 
 This ship has been built in the short space of SO days, 
 and when it is taken into view, that two brigs of 500 
 tons each have also been built, rigged, and complete- 
 ly fitted for service since the first of February, it will 
 be acknowledged that the mechanics employed on this 
 station have done their duty. 
 
 I have the honour to be, &c. 
 
 ISAAC CHAUNCEY. 
 
 ATTACK ON OSWEGO. 
 
 On the 5th of May a British force appeared off Os- 
 wego from Kingston, consisting of 3 ships, 2 brigs, 2 
 schooners and a number of gun-boats, commanded by 
 Com. Yeo. They were twice repulsed in attempts to 
 land. On the 6th they succeeded in capturing the 
 place with a considerable quantity of military stores. 
 They evacuated the place on the 8th, after having set 
 fire to the barracks. 
 
 LE'lTER FROM COM. CHAUNCEY TO THE SEc'y OF THE 
 
 NAVY. 
 
 Sir, SackeVs harhour, May 11, 1814. 
 
 The enemy has paid dearly for the little booty which 
 he obtained at Oswego. From the best informiition 
 whicli 1 can collect, both from deserters and my ag( nts, 
 the enemy lost 70 men killed, and 165 wounded, 
 drowning, and missing — in all, 231 ; nearly as many 
 as were opposed to them. Caj)t. Mulcaster is ccr- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 275 
 
 lainly mortally wounded ; a captain of marines killed, 
 and a number of other officers killed and wounded. 
 
 I have the honor &.c. 
 
 ISAAC CIIAUNCEY. 
 
 CAPIURE OF THE GUN-BOATS AT SANDY CREEK. 
 
 Eighteen boats, ^per the command of Capt. 
 Woolsey, from Oswego for Sacket's liarbour, loaded 
 with guns and nav;;l stores put into Sandy Qreek on 
 the 29th of May. > apt. Woolsey, apprehending an 
 attack, placed a number of riflemen and Indians (un- 
 der the command of JVIaj. Appling) in the woods on 
 ejicii side of the creek, and seiit a few raw militia, 
 with a show of opposing the enemy's landing. The 
 militia retreated on the first fire, pursued by the ene- 
 my ; but as soon as they had passed tiie Indians and 
 riflemen, who were in jimbush, these last attacked 
 them in the rear, while a battery of 4 field pieces oj)en- 
 ed upon them in front. Thus cut off in their retreat, 
 the wliole force of the enemy, 137 in number, surren- 
 dered, with tl^eir gun-boas, 5 in number, after a 
 smart action of 20 minutes, in which they lost 20 kil- 
 led and 40 or 50 wounded. 
 
 Among the enemy's killed were 1 lieutenant of ma- 
 rines, and 1 midshipman; among the prisoners were 
 2 post captains, Popham and Spelsburg, one the com- 
 mander of the Uolf, 4> heutenants, and 4 midship- 
 men. 
 
 On the 19th of June, Lieut. Gregory, with a small 
 force surprised and captured, on the St. Lawrence, a 
 gun-boat, (the filack Smke, or No. 9) mounting one 
 18 pounder, and manned with 18 men, chiefly royal 
 marines. Being discovered and pursued by the ene- 
 my, Lieut. Gregory after taking out the pr soners 
 scuttled the prize and arrived at Sacket's harbour the 
 next morning with his prisoners. In Com. Chauncey's 
 
276 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 official letter, honorable notice is taken of Lieut. 
 Gregory, Sailing Master Vaughan, and Mr. Dixon. 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COM. CHAUNCEY TO THE 
 SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 United States Ship Siiper^, Sachet's harbour 
 Sir, W JuliJ 7, 1814. 
 
 I AM happy that I have it in my power to detail to 
 you another brilliant achievement of Lieut. Gregory 
 with his brave companions. 
 
 On the 29th ult. [ directel Lieut. Gregory to take 
 with him Messrs. Vaughan and Dixon — proceed with 
 the two largest oigs to Nicholas Island, (within about 
 seven miles of Prcsque Isle harbour) and there con- 
 ceal his boats and wait for some transports there to 
 take up provisions and munitions of war, which had 
 been sent up the Bay of Quinte for the troops at 
 York and Fort George, but if the transports did not 
 make their appearance in three or four days, then to 
 proceed to Presque Isle, and burn a vessel on the 
 stocks ; but with positive orders not to injure a pri- 
 vate buildng or any private property. The day after 
 Lieut. Gregory arrived on the coast he discovered a 
 vessel beating up, hu' just as he shovel off to board 
 her, a 1 irge 2un-boat hove in sii^ht a little below him. 
 This boat made a si«Tnal to the vessel in the omng, 
 upon which she tacked an I stood for the gun-boat. 
 Lieut. Gregory secreted his boats as well as he could, 
 but was apprehensive tiiat lie had been discovered. 
 The gun-boat and her convoy (which was full of 
 troops) stood into Presque Isle. Lieut. Gregory was 
 determined to ascertain whether he had been discover- 
 ed — accordingly he sent one of his boats in the next 
 night and took off one of the inhabitants who inform- 
 ed him, that it was known that he was on the coast, 
 and that two expresses had been sent to Kingston in 
 consequence. He therefore determined upon execu- 
 ting the latter part of his inslruclions, and made his 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 277 
 
 arrangments accordingly ; landed, place sentinels at 
 the house to prevent alarm, and set fire to the vessel, 
 which was nearly ready to launch ; she w as a stout, well 
 built vessel, to mount li guns, and would probably 
 have been launched in about ten days. A small store- 
 house, which contained stores for the vessel, was un- 
 avoidably burnt, as it was so near the vessel that it 
 took fire from her. The few milita, which had l)een 
 left to guard the vessel and property, retreated upon 
 the approach of our boats. As soon as the vessel was 
 entirely consumed, Lieut. Gregory re-embarked his 
 men, without having permitted one of them to enter a 
 house. Finding the alarm so general he thought pru- 
 dent to cross the lake immediately : he stopped one 
 day at Oswego for refreshment, and arrived here last 
 evening, having performed a most difficult service with 
 his usual gallantry and good conduct. 
 
 Lieut. Gregory speaks in the highest terms of com- 
 mendation of Sailing Master Vaughan and Mr. Dix- 
 on, as well as the men under his command, for their 
 patient endurance of hunger and fatigue and the zeal 
 with which they perfomed every part of their duty. 
 
 I think in justice to these brave men, that they ought 
 to be allowed something for the destruction of this 
 vessel — they have, however, every confidence in the 
 justice and liberality of the government, and submit 
 their case most cheerfully to its decision. 
 I have the honor to be, &.c. 
 Hon. William Jones. ISAAC CHAUNCEY. 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COM. CHAUNCEY TO THE 
 SECRETAr'v OF THE NAVY. 
 
 United States Ship Superior off Kingston, 
 Sir, August 10, 1814, 
 
 Great anxiety of mind and severe bodily exertions 
 have at length broken down the best constitution and 
 subjected me to a violent fever, that confined me for 
 eighteen days. This misfortune was no more to be 
 
278 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 foreseen than prevented, but was particularly severe 
 at the moment it happened, as it induced a delay of 
 five or six days in the sailing of tlie fleet. 
 
 In the afternoon on the 31st of July, I was taken 
 on hoard, but it was calm, and I did not sail before 
 the next morning. To satisfy once whatever expecta- 
 tions the public had been led to entertain of the suf- 
 ficiency of this squadron to take and maintain the as- 
 cendency on this lake, and at the same time to expose 
 the futility of promise, the fulfilment of which had 
 been rested on our appearance at the head of the 
 lake, I got under way at 4 o'clock in the morning of 
 the 1st inst. and steered for the mouth of the Niagara. 
 Ovvins to liffht winds, I did not arrive off there be- 
 fore the 5th. There we intercepted one of the en- 
 emy's brigs running over from York to Niagara with 
 troops, and run her on shore about six miles to the 
 westward of Fort George. I ordered the Sylph in, 
 to anchor as near to the enemy as he could with safe- 
 ty, and to destroy her. Capt. Elliott ran in, in a very 
 gallant manner to within from 300 to 500 yards of her, 
 and was about anchoring when the enemy set fire to 
 her and she soon after blew up. This vessel was a 
 schooner the last year, and called the Beresford — 
 since they altered her to a brig they changed her name, 
 and I have not been able to ascertain it. She moun- 
 ted 14 guns, twelve 241b. carronades and two long 9 
 pounders. 
 
 My anxiety to return to this end of the lake was in- 
 creased by the knowledge 1 had of the weakness of 
 Sacket's harbour, and the apprehension that the enemy 
 miiiht receive a larije reinforce»nent at Kin<rston,and 
 embarking some of the troops on board his fleet, make 
 a dash at the harbour and burn it with all my stores 
 durinir our absence. When I left the harbour there 
 were but about 700 regular troops fit for duty It is 
 true a few military had been called in, but liltle could 
 be expected of thein, sliould an attack be made. 3Iy 
 appreliension, it seems, was groundless, the enemy 
 having contented himself with annoying in some tri 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 279 
 
 fling decree the coasters between Oswego and the har- 
 hour in his boats. 
 
 I cannot forbear expressing the regret I feel that so 
 much sensation has been excited in the pubhc mind, 
 because this squadron did not sail so soon as the wise 
 heads, that conduct our newspapers, have presumed 
 to think it ought. I need not suggest to one of your 
 experience, that a man-of-war may appear to the eye 
 of a landsman perfectly ready for sea, when she is 
 deficient in many of the most essential poinis of her 
 armament, nor how unworthy I should have proved 
 myself of the high trust reposed in me, had I ventur- 
 ed to sea in the face of an enemy of equal force, with- 
 out being ready to meet him in one hour after my an- 
 chor was weighed. 
 
 It ought in justice to be recollected, that the build- 
 ing and equipment of vessels on the Atlantic are un- 
 attended by any of the great difficulties which we 
 have to encounter on this lake — there every depart- 
 ment abounds with facilities ; a commander makes a 
 requisition, and articles of every description are fur- 
 nished in twelve hours; but this fleet has been built and 
 fitted in the wilderness, where there are no agents and 
 chandler's shops and founderies, &.c. &.C. to supply 
 our wants, but every thing is to be created ; and yet 
 I shall not decline a comparison of what has been 
 done here, with anything done on the Atlantic, in the 
 building or equipment of vessels. The Guerrierey 
 for instance, has been building and fitting upwards of 
 twelve months in the city of Philadelphia, and is not 
 now ready. The President frigate went into the na- 
 vy yard at New York for some partial repairs, a few 
 days after the keel of the Superior was laid : since 
 then two frigates of a large class, and two sloops of 
 the largest class, have been built and fitted here, and 
 have sailed before the President is ready for sea, al- 
 though every article of their armament and rigging 
 has been transported from New York in despite of ob- 
 stacles almost insurmountable. I will go farther, sir, 
 for it is due to the unremitted and unsurpassed exer- 
 
280 NAVAL MONUME>"T. 
 
 tions of those who liave served the pubhc under my 
 command, and will challenge the world to produce a 
 parallel instance, in which the same number of vessels 
 of such dimensions have been built and fitted in the 
 same time by the same number of workmen. 
 
 I confess that I am mortified in not having succeed- 
 ed in satisfying the expectations of the public ; but it 
 would be infinitely more painful, could I find any want 
 of zeal or exertion in my endeavors to serve them, to 
 which I could in any degree impute their disappoint- 
 ment. 
 
 I have the honor to be, sir, with 
 
 the utmost respect, your most obed't 
 
 and very humble servant, 
 Hon. William Jones, ISAAC CHAUJXCEY. 
 
 Secr'y of the navy. 
 
 LETTER FROM COM. CHAUNCEY TO SECRETARY OF THE 
 
 NAVY. 
 
 United States Ship Superior off the Ducks, 
 Sir, October 2, 1814. 
 
 Having a very commanding breeze yesterday, I 
 sent the Ladij of the Lake into Kingston to reconni- 
 tre. She stood close in with the forts and shipping, 
 keeping just within the range of their shot, and had a 
 fair view. The ships lay in the same position as on 
 the 29th ult. and the large ship still without her sails 
 bent — no visible preparations to embark troops. I 
 shall watch them in this position as long as possible 
 without endangering the fleet. 
 
 I have the honor <Slc. 
 
 ISAAC CHAUNCEY. 
 
 TESTIMONIES OF RESPECT. 
 
 On Saturday, Sept. 5, 1812, in pursuance to previ- 
 ous arrangements, a public entertainment at Faneuil 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 281 
 
 Hall was given to Capt. Hull, in celebration of the 
 achievement of the Constitution frigate in the de- 
 struction of the British frigate Guerrierc. An unu- 
 sual assembly of tiie citizens, amounting to nearly six 
 hundred, without distinction of party, were present 
 on the occasion. Among the distinguished guests, 
 were the officers of Com. Rodger's squadron [the 
 commodore was too much indisposed to attend]. Brig 
 G<n. Boyd and staff, Judge llenson of New York, 
 and many gentlemen from the southward. 
 
 At an early hour in the morning, St;;te-street, and the 
 way in continuation quite down to the end of Long 
 wharf, off which the squadron was lying at anchor, 
 was beautifully decorated by a display of tiags, f om 
 the tops and windows of the buildings on both sides, 
 and from the masts of vessels. 
 
 At 3 o'clock the procession was formed at the Ex- 
 change Coffee House, and went from thence, preceded 
 by an excellent band of music, to the hall of entertain- 
 ment. The Hon. John C. Jones, president of the day, 
 with Capt. Hull on his right and immediately follow- 
 ed by six vice-presidents, formed tlie head of the pro- 
 cession on its way to the hall. The concourse of citi- 
 zens in the streets, through which the procession mov- 
 ed, notwithstanding the unpleasant wetness of the day 
 was larger than known on almost any other occasion. 
 These gave three cheers as the procession passed down 
 State Street. The decorations of the hall which were 
 conducted by Col. Henry Sargeant, were in the high- 
 est degree brilliant and appropriate. All the arrange- 
 ments of the day were splendid and elegant, and such 
 as did great credit to the committees by whom they 
 were superintende 1. So large and respectable a con- 
 vention of citizens of different political sentiments hav- 
 ing mingled together indiscriminately in celebration 
 of an achievement so honourable to their country, was 
 indeed a most interesting spectacle ; and in the highest 
 degree honourable to the town of Boston. 
 
 The citizens of Philadelphia presented to Capt. 
 Hull a large and elegant piece of plate, on which was 
 
 36 
 
I 
 
 282 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 the following inscription : The citizens of Philadel- 
 phia, at a meeting convened on the v of Sept. mdcccxii, 
 voted this urn, to be presented in their name to Cap- 
 tain Isaac Hull, commander of the United States 
 frigate Constitution, as a testimony of their sense 
 of his distinguished gallantry and conduct in bring- 
 ing to action and subduing the British frigate Guer- 
 riere, on the xix day of August, mdcccxii, and of 
 the eminent service he has rendered to his country, by 
 achieving, in the first naval conflict of the ivar, a 
 most signal and decisive victory over a foe, that had, 
 till then, challenged an unrivalled superiority on 
 the ocean, and thus establishing the claim of our navy 
 to the affection and confidence of the nation. 
 
 Engraved by W. Hooker. 
 
 They also gave a handsome piece of plate to C. 
 Morris, lieutenant. 
 
 The national legislature voted J|50,000 and their 
 thanks to Capt. Hull, officers and crew ; also, to 
 Capt. Hull a gold medal, and to each of the officers 
 silver medals, with appropriate devices. 
 
 The order of Cincinnati admitted Capt. Hull an 
 honorary member of their society. 
 
 The legislatures of New York and Massachusetts 
 voted their thanks to Capt. Hull, officers and crew. 
 
 The common council of the city of New- York 
 gave a public dinner, and the freedom of the city, 
 in a gold box, to Capt. Hull ; and their thanks to the 
 officers and crew. The citizens of New York also 
 gave a public dinner to Capt. Hull. 
 
 The councils of Albany voted the freedom of the city 
 to Capt. Hull, and thanks to officers and crew. 
 
 The councils of Savannah voted their thanks to 
 Capt. Hull, officers and crew. 
 
 The citizens of Charleston S. C. presented to Capt. 
 Hull a handsome piece of plate. 
 
 The citizens of Portland presented to Lieut. Wads- 
 worth, a native of that place, a handsome sword with 
 suitable devices, in testimony of their high sense of 
 his gallantry in the action with the Guerricre. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 283 
 
 The legislature of Virginia presented to Lieut. 
 Morgan and Midshipman Tayloe, natives of that state, 
 a valuable sv\ord each, in honor of their valor in 
 the same action. 
 
 r Congress voted $25,000 and their thanks to Capt. 
 1 Jacob Jones, officers and crew of the Wasp, also a 
 I gold medal to Capt. Jones, and silver medals to each 
 I of the officers, in testimony of their high sense of the 
 1 gallantry displayed by them in the capture of the Brit- 
 I ish sloop Frolic. 
 
 I The legislature of Deleware presented to Capt. 
 Vjones,a nutive of that state, a rich piece of plate, in tesr 
 timony of their gratitude for his services in the cause 
 of his country. The plate was designed and execu- 
 ted by Fletcher and Gardiner of Philadelphia, and 
 cost $500. 
 
 The citizens of Philadelphia gave a sword, an ele- 
 gant silver urn, and a public dinner to Capt. Jones, 
 and a sword to each of the lieutenants. 
 
 The legislature of Pennsylvania gave a handsome 
 sword to Lieut. Biddle. 
 
 The common council of New York gave an elegant 
 sword and the freedom of the city to Capt. Jones, and 
 also a public dinner and thanks to the officers and 
 crew — The citizens of New York also gave a pubHc 
 dinner. 
 
 The order of Cincinnati at New York admitted Capt. 
 Jones as a member. 
 
 The legislatures of New York and Massachusetts, 
 and the councils of Savannah voted their thanks to 
 Capt. Jones, officers and crew. 
 
 The national legislature voted their thanks to Com. 
 Decatur, officers and crew of the frigate United States, 
 also a gold medal to Com. Decatur, and silver medals 
 to each of the officers, in honor of the brilliant victo- 
 
284 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 ry gained by the frigate United States over the Brit- 
 ish frigate Macedonian, 
 
 The legislatures of New York, Pennsylvania, and 
 Massachusetts, and the councils of New London and 
 Savannah voted their thanks to Com. Decatur, oilicers 
 and crew. 
 
 A splendid ball and entertainment were given to 
 Com. Decatur and olilcers on their arrival at New 
 London. 
 
 The common council of New York voted a public 
 dinner and the freedom of ihe city in a gold Irox to 
 Com. Decatur, that liis portrait be procured and set 
 up in the gallery of portraits belonging to the city, 
 and that thanks be given to the commodore, officers 
 and crew. 
 
 A ball was given to Com. Decatur at the city Ho- 
 tel, New York, on the 2d of January 1813. Tiie dec- 
 orations of the hall surpassed any thing of the kind ev- 
 er before witnessed in this country. 
 
 On the 7th of January 181.3, in pursuance to ar- 
 rangements made by the corporation of the city qf 
 New York, a dinner w;)s given at the city Hotel, to 
 the crew of the frigate United States, who had so no- 
 bly supported the character of American seamin in 
 the late engagement with the British frigate Macedo- 
 nian. The assembly room was decorated precisely 
 in the same style as at the previous naval entertain- 
 ment, with this difference, that the reservoir in which 
 floated the miniature frigate, inslead of containing wa- 
 ter, was filled with grog. 
 
 The crew were Ian led at New Slip precisely at 2 
 o'clock, and inarched in good order to the city Hotel, 
 through Pearl-street, Wall-street, and Broadway, 
 preceded by a band of music, amid the loud and reit- 
 erated huzzas of their fellow citizens. 
 
 On their arrival at the hotel, ihey were ushered into 
 the room by the committe of the corporation, and 
 took their seats wish perfect regularity at the call of 
 the boatswain's wins le, whilst the band strjjck up the 
 inspiring tune of Yankee Doodle. After which a 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 285 
 
 nandsome address was delivered by Alderman Vander 
 biit. To which the boatswain replied nearly in the 
 following words : 
 
 "In behalf of my shipmates, I return our sincere 
 thanks to the corporation of the city of New York, 
 for the honor which they have this day done us. Rest 
 assured, that it will be always our wish to deserve the 
 good opinion of our countrymen." 
 
 When the boatswain had finished this repl}^, his 
 shipmates, in token of their approbation, made the 
 room rinor with three heartv cheers. 
 
 At this moment the transparent paintings, exhibiting 
 our three glorious naval victories, were suddenly dis- 
 played by the dropping of the canvas, which before 
 had concealed them. It is impossible for pen to des- 
 cribe the effect which it had upon the minds of the as- 
 tonished sailors : their admiration was expressed by 
 repeated huzzas, and enthusiastic acclamations. Si- 
 lence was in a few minutes restored by the boatswain's 
 whistle, when the whole crew, to the number of 400 
 and upwards, commenced their attack upon an excel- 
 lent dinner, which ^^ as soon demolished, and in such a 
 manner as left no room to doubt, "^/joY they could have 
 done much more, if more had been required." 
 
 After diimer the boatswain piped for silence, when 
 the president gave the following toast : 
 " American ships all over the ocean." 
 
 Com. Decatur and his first lieutenant, Mr. i\llen, 
 shortly after enered the room, and were received by 
 the seamen in a manner that evinced the aflTection and 
 delight with which they beheld their brave command- 
 er. After remaining a few minutes, the commodore 
 gave as a toast, 
 
 << jPr^e trade and no impressment." 
 
 After the commodore retired, a variety of volun- 
 teer toasts were given by diflferent seamen, in a true 
 nautical style, and at 6 o'clock the company, obedient 
 to the boatswain's call, adjourned to the theatre, with- 
 out having been guilty of unseamen-like conduct, or 
 a single excess, and perfec'ly satisfied with the atten- 
 tion that had been shown them. 
 
286 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 The jolly tars marched in regular procession to the 
 theatre, in compliance with an invitation from the 
 managers. The front of the theatre was illuminated, 
 and exhibited a transparency of the engagement be- 
 tween the Unit id States and Macedonian. The house 
 was more crowded ihan was ever before known. The 
 pit was entirely occupied by the gallant crew of the 
 frigate United States, who behaved throusfh the even- 
 ing with the utmosr decoruin. 
 
 The citizens of New York and Philadelphia gave a 
 public dinner to the commander and officers of the 
 frigate United States. 
 
 The citizens of Philadelphia presented to Com. De- 
 catur a sword of solid gold, 36 inches in length, and 
 w eighing 21 oz. 10 pwts. it cost $700. 
 
 The legislature of Virginia presented swords to 
 Com. Decatur, Lieut, W. H. Allen, and Lieut. J. B. 
 Nicholson. 
 
 The United States frigate Constitution, Com. Bain- 
 bridge, after the destrucrion of the British frigate 
 Java , arrived at Boston on the 18th of February 181.3. 
 On the following Thursday at 12 o'clock. Com. Bain- 
 bridge landed at the long wharf from the frigaie Con- 
 stitution, amidst loud acclamalions, and roaring of 
 cannon from the shore. All the way from the end of 
 the pier to the Exchange Cotfee House was decora- 
 ted with colors and streamers. In State-street they 
 were strung across from the opposite buildings, while 
 the windows and balconies of the houses were filled 
 with ladies, and the tops of the houses were covered 
 with spectators, and an immense crowd filled the 
 streets, so as to render it difficult for the military esco; t 
 to march. The commodore was distinguished by his 
 noble figure, and his walking uncovered. On his 
 right hand was the veteran. Com. Rodgers, and on 
 his left. Brig. Gen. Welles ; then followed the brave 
 Cnpt. Hull, Col. Blake, and a number of officers and [j 
 
 citizens ; but the crowd w;is so immense that it was 
 difiicult to keep the ordiu' of procession. The baud 
 of music in the balcony of the Stale Bank, and the 
 music of the New-England Guards had a fine effect. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 287 
 
 DINNER IN HONOR OF COM. BAINBRIDGE. 
 
 On the 2d of March a splendid public dinner was 
 given in the Exchange Coffee House, Boston, to Com. 
 Bainbridge and the officers of the United States frig- 
 ate Constitution for their gallant achievement in the 
 capture of the British first-rate frigate Java ; — to 
 vv^iiich Com. Rodgers, Capts. Hull and Smith, and 
 the officers of the squadron then in port were invited. 
 The procession was formed in Fanueil Hall, by Maj. 
 Tilden, and was escorted, amidst the applauses of the 
 citizens, to the Coffee House, by a battalion, composed 
 of the Boston Light Infantry and the Winslow Blues, 
 commanded by Col. Sargeant. The hall was com- 
 pletely filled. The Hon. Christopher Gore presided. 
 The Hon. Harrison G. Otis, Hon. Israel Thorndike, 
 Arnold Welles Esq. Thomas L. Winthrop Esq. Hon. 
 Peter C. Brooks, and William Sullivan Esq. assisted 
 as Vice Presidents. 
 
 The entertainment was sumptuous, and the style in 
 which it was got up did credit to Mr. Jones, who pro- 
 vided it. 
 
 Before sitting down to table the blessing of Al- 
 mighty God was asked in a most impressive manner 
 by the Rev. M. Holley. 
 
 After thanks were returned, the Hon. Mr. Gore ad- 
 dressed the gentleman present on the occasion in a 
 very elegant and impressive manner. See page 29. 
 
 Monday the 8th of March was appointed by the city 
 council of Charleston S. C. as a day of general festival 
 and joy in honor of our splendid naval victories. It 
 was ushered in by the ringing of bells and firing of can- 
 non &.C : all business was suspended. At 3 o'clock a 
 grand procession was tbrmed. Banners, exhibiting 
 th' names of our most eminent statesmen and naval 
 officers were borne by the most distinguished citizens. 
 About 600 sat down to a splendid entertainment. 
 The room was suitably decorated for the occasion. 
 
288 NAVAL MOMTMENT. 
 
 Back of the president's chair was a colossal bust of 
 Washington, decorated with flags ; and festoons of 
 stars and stripes connected the pillars that support the 
 ceiling. At tlie bottom of the hall was a transparen- 
 cy, on which was inscribed, " The defenders of the 
 Constitution" — "Bain." the remainder was sup- 
 plied by the representation of a bridge, at the end of 
 which was represented the Hull of a ship. Direct- 
 ly under the transparency was an elegant painting, 
 from the pencil of John B. White Esduire, 
 
 In the evening the city was illuminated. Many of 
 the houses were adorned with beautiful transparen- 
 cies. 
 
 The congress of the United States voted .$50,000 
 
 and their thanks to Com. Bainbridge, officers and crew, 
 
 also a gold medal to Com. Bainbridge, and silver 
 
 medals to each of the officers of the Constitution, 
 
 \\ with suitable devices. 
 
 The corporation of the city of New York bestowe^ 
 upon Com. Bainbridge the freedom of the city, ac- 
 companied with a goM box. 
 
 Tile citizens of Pliilidelphia subscribed an elegant 
 piece of plate to Com. Bainbridge. 
 
 The legislature of New York and Massachusetts 
 voted their thanks to Com. Bainbridge, officers and 
 crew. The resolve of the legislature of Massachu- 
 setts was as follows : " That Commodores Baiid)ridge 
 and Decatur, Captains Hull and Jones of the U. S. 
 navy, their odicers and crews, in the splendid victories 
 by them obtained over the British ships of war, the 
 Java, Macedonian, Guerriere, and IVoIic, and in 
 their generous conduct to their captured enemies, have 
 acquired for themselves a distinguished title to that 
 consideration and applause of their fellow citizens, 
 which is due to an heroic and able discharge of duty, 
 and which is the legitimate reward of the brave man, 
 who devotes his life to the services of his country.'* 
 
 The crew of I he Constitution frigate were treated 
 with a theatrical entertainment on tiie evening of the 
 9tli of April. The brave fellows enjoyed it with 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 289 
 
 great glee. They marched to the theatre in regular 
 order and returned in the same manner to the ship, as 
 their cliosen home. They hehaved with great decency 
 and decorum. The stage box was filled with the na- 
 vy oliicors, Rodgers, Bainbridge, Smith, and their 
 lieutenants. Com. Bainbridofe addressed the crew, 
 previous to their leaving the ship, in the following 
 terms. 
 
 " Sailors, in the action with the Java you have 
 shown yourselves men. You are this evening invited 
 to partake of the amusements of the theatre ; conduct 
 yourselves well. Suffer me not to experience any 
 mortification from any disorderly conduct on your 
 part. Let the correctness of your conduct equal your 
 bravery, and I shall have additional cause to speak 
 of you in terms of approbation." 
 
 The honest tars replied — 
 
 "Commodore, we will put out of the pit the first 
 man I hat misbehaves." 
 
 The pit was never moj'e orderly than when it was 
 filled with the sailors and marines of the Constitution. 
 The neatness of their dress, (blue jackets, scarlet 
 waistcoats, new-neck-handkerchiefs, and glazed hats) 
 was a pleasing sight. The marines were extremely 
 neat, and conducted themselves with the silence and 
 composure of othcers. Our citizens saw with delight, 
 what discipline and self-respect could produce upon 
 the hardy sons of the ocean. 
 
 At Portland a public dinner was given to Com. 
 Bainbridge. 
 
 The citizens of Georgetown, Col. gave a public 
 entertainment to Com. Bainbridge. Among the 
 guests were Capt. Morris, and Lieutenants M'Call 
 and Forrest. 
 
 Com. Bainbridge was received at Philadelphia with 
 a mililarv escort amidst the acclamations of the cit- 
 izens. 
 
 In April our naval victories were splendidly cele- 
 brated at the city of Washington. Upwards of 200 
 gentlemen of the first distinction partook of an ele- 
 
 37 
 
290 ' NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 gant entertainment, at which a number of patriotic 
 toasts were tirank, accompanied by music and dis- 
 charge of artillery. 
 
 The congress of the United States passed a resolu- 
 tion, "That the president be requested to present to 
 the nearest male relative of Capt. James Lawrence a 
 gold medal, and a silver medal to each of the commis- 
 sioned officers wiio served under him in the sloop of 
 war Hornet, in her conflict with the British vessel of 
 war Peacock, in testimony of the high sense enter- 
 tained by congress, of the gallantry and good conduct 
 of the officers and crew in the capture of tliat vessel 
 and that the president be also requested to communi- 
 cate to the nearest relative of Capt. Lawrence, the 
 sense which congress entertains of the loss the naval 
 service of the United States has sustained in the death 
 of that distinguished officer." 
 
 The crew of the Hornet were treated with a dinner 
 and a seat at the theatre by the corporaiion of New 
 York, in honor of their good conduct in the battle wnth 
 the Peacock. 
 
 The citizens of Philadelphia subscribed a rich and 
 beautiful piece of plate for the lamented Capt. Law- 
 rence. He did not live to receive this token of res- 
 pect and affection. It was however ffiiished and pre- 
 sented to Mrs. Lawrence. 
 
 The following is the answer of Mrs. Lawrence, to 
 a resj)ectful note, addressed to her from a committee 
 of the citizens of Philadelphia. 
 
 Gentlem'ii, JVeiv York, Jan. 16, 1816. 
 
 Your letter, accompanying " two elegant pieces of 
 plate, intended to conimemorate the capture of the 
 slooj) of wnr Peacock by the American slocp Hornet, 
 under Capt. Lawrence's command," has been re- 
 ceived. 
 
 From the enlightened citizens of Philadelphia, eel 
 ebrated for their patriotism, this testimony of respect 
 for the services of my lamented husband is peculiarly 
 grateful ; and as the applause of his fellow citizens 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 291 
 
 was the most acceptable reward he could, while livintr, 
 receive ; so it is the greatest consolation which my 
 widowed heart is capable of enjoying, that his memo- 
 ry is thought worthy of being cherished with esteem 
 by those for whose rights he offered up his life. 
 
 Accept, I pray you, gentlemen for yourselves, and 
 be pleased to communicate to those on whose behalf 
 you act, my sincere tlianks and respectful considera- 
 tion. Your obedient servant, 
 
 JULIA LAWRENCE. 
 George Harrison, and 
 Daniel William Cox, Esq'rs. 
 Committee in behalf of the citizens of Philadelphia. 
 
 The congress of the United States presented to the 
 nearest male relative of Lieut. Wilhain Burrows and 
 to Lieut. M'Call of the brig Enterprize, a gold med- 
 al, with suitable emblems and devices, and a silver 
 medal to each of the commissioned officers, in honor 
 of their gallantry and good conduct in the conflict with 
 the Boxer. 
 
 The citizens of Portland gave a dinner to the crew 
 of \he Enterprize in honor of their bravery in captur- 
 insr the Boxe7\ 
 
 An entertainment was given at Baltimore to Lieut. 
 M'Call on whom the command of the Entei^prize de- 
 volved, after the death of Lieut. Burrows. Among 
 the guests invited, were Capts. Ridgley and Spence, 
 of the United States sloops Erie and Ontario. 
 
 The legislature of South Carohna presented a sword 
 to Lieut. M'Call, as a mark of respect entertained by 
 his native state for his distinguished gallantry and good 
 conduct in the battle with the Boxer. They also voted 
 a sword to Lieut. Tillinghast, a native of that state, 
 ,n honor of the good conduct he exhibited in the same 
 engagement. Also the citizens of Columbia, S. C. 
 the native place of Lieut. Tillinghast, presented to 
 him an elegant sword. 
 
 Matthew L. Davis Esq. of New York, passing 
 through Portland on a tour to the eastward, accideii 
 
292 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 tally took a walk into the burying ground. His atten- 
 tion was attf^cted to tiie neglected grave of the late 
 Lieut. Burrows. The only guide to the spot, v/here 
 are deposited the remains of one who deserved so much 
 of his country, was the tomb stone of his deceased 
 competitor, Capt. Blythe. This was erected two years 
 since by the surviving officers of the Boxer. Mr. Da- 
 vis immediately gave orders for an elegant marble 
 monument to be erected over the grave of Burrows, lo 
 be finished by his return, and without sparing lahou! 
 or expense. It was soon completed and put up. Its 
 style of execution does much credit to the ingen ous 
 artist, Mr. Bartlett Adams of Portland. The inscrip- 
 tion is highly creditable to the taste, judgment and 
 modesty of the generous donor, and worthy the hero, 
 whom it is designed to commemorate. 
 
 The congress of the United States voted their thanks 
 to Com. Perry, and through him to the officers, petty 
 officers, seamen, marines, and infantry, serving as such, 
 attached to the squadron under his command, for the 
 decisive and glorious victory of Lake Erie, also gold 
 medals to Com. Perry and Lieut. J. D. Elliott, and sil- 
 ver medals with suitable devices, to each of the com- 
 missioned officers, either of the navy or army, serving 
 on board, and a sword to each of the midshipmen and 
 sailing masters, who so nobly distinguished themselves 
 on that memorable day ; also, a silver medal to the 
 nearest male relative of Lieut. John Brooks, of the 
 marines, a sword to the nearest male relative of Mid- 
 shipmen Henry Laub, Thomas Claxton, jr. and John 
 Clark, and three month's extra pay to all the petty 
 officers, seamen marines, and infantry, who were in 
 the enjTasement. 
 
 A splendid public dinner was given by the citizens 
 of Boston to Com. Perry. The company assemhlcd 
 in the Senate Chamber of the State house, tVom 
 whence the whole proceeded to the Exchange Coffee 
 House. 
 
 The dinner was served up in Mr. Jones' best stvle, 
 and the hall was very elegantly and appropriately de- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 293 
 
 corated. After dinner appropriate toasts, occasional- 
 ly relieved by songs sung by Messrs. Stebbins and 
 Messinger, were drank amidst cheers of applause, and 
 followed by airs from a full band of musick. 
 
 Com. Perry was received with the greatest respect 
 by the citizens of Albany. The common council voted 
 him the freedom of the city in a gold case, with an el- 
 egant sword. 
 
 The legislature of Pennsylvania voted their thanks 
 to Com. Perry with a gold medal ; to Lieut. Elliott 
 their thanks, with a like medal ; and to those ciiizens 
 of Pennsylvania, who volunteered their services, a sil- 
 ver medal of the weight of two dollars, with each per- 
 son's name subscribed there^on. 
 
 A splendid entertainment was given to Com. Perry 
 at Tammany Hall, New York. 
 
 An eiitenainment was given to Com. Perry at Bar- 
 ney's " Foun ain Inn," Baltimore. The room was 
 decorated with elegant transparent paintings, repre- 
 senting the battle of Lake Erie, and exhibiting the 
 names of our naval heroes, &.c. 
 
 The cities of Hudson, N. Y. Philadelphia, Rich- 
 mond and Charleston, S. C. were splendidly illumin- 
 ated in honor of Perry's victory. 
 
 The citizens of Newport R. L presented to Com. 
 Perry, a native of that place, a rich piece of plate of 
 the value of !$700. 
 
 The legislature of South Carolina gave an elegant 
 sword to Lieut. Thomas Holdup, for his gallantry in 
 the battle of Lake Erie. 
 
 The citizens of Boston presented to Com. Perry a 
 service of plate, consisling of nearly forty pieces, which 
 cost $1600. 
 
 A piece of plate of (he value of $300 was subscrib- 
 ed for Com. Perry by the citizens of Fred!cksburgli,Va. 
 
 The citizens of Philadelphia and Savannah presen- 
 ted to Com. Perry a handsome sword, with appropri- 
 ate engravings. 
 
 The Congress of the United States resolved, that 
 their thanks be presented to Com. Macdonough, and 
 
294) NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 through him to the officers, petty officers, seamen, 
 marines, and infantry serving as marines, attached to 
 the squadron under his command, for the decisive and 
 splendid victory gained on Lake Champlain ; that gold 
 medals he struck, emblematical of the actions between 
 the two squadrons, and presented to Com. Macdo- 
 nough, Capt. Robert Henley, and Lieut. Stephen 
 Cassin ; that silver medals, with appropriate devices 
 be bestowed on each of the commissioned officers of 
 the navy and army, who were in the engagement, and 
 a sword on each midshipman and sailing master. A 
 silver medal was also voted to the nearest male rela- 
 tive of Lieut. Peter Gamble and Lieut. John Stans- 
 bury, who fell in the action. 
 
 The legislature of New York gave to Com. Macdo- 
 nongh a thousand acres of land. 
 
 The legislature of Vermont gave to Com. Macdo- 
 nough a tract of land adjoining Lake Champlain, from 
 which may be seen that part of the lake where the btit- 
 tle was fought. 
 
 The common council of New York presented to 
 Com. Macdonough the freedom of the city in a gold 
 box, and their thanks to his officers and crew. They 
 also requested of the commodore his portrait to be 
 placed in the gallery of paintings. 
 
 The citizens of Plattsburg gave a public dinner to 
 Com. Macdonough. 
 
 The citizens of Salem gave a public entertainment 
 to Capt. Charles Stewart, of the frigate Constitution. 
 The officers of the frigate were among the guests. 
 Every thing was conducted in an elegant style. Com. 
 Rodgers and our naval victors were honorably com- 
 plimented, and the lamented dead, Lawrence, Bur- 
 rows, Alwyn, and Budd were not forgotten. 
 
 Capt. Porter, on his return from the Western ocean, 
 landed at New York, where he was received with en- 
 thusiasm. The people took the horses from his car- 
 riage, and, amidst the shouts of thousands, hauled him 
 to his lodgings. 
 
 A part of the crew, late of the Essex, received a 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 295 
 
 public entertainment at Tammany Hall, New York. 
 Some of the wounded attended the procession in car- 
 riiii^es. Their wdiole number was ISi. The toasts of 
 these men show their love to their countrv and to their 
 connnander. 
 
 Capt. Porter w^as received at Philadelphia by tens 
 of thousands. He entered the city in a carriage with 
 the mayor, preceded and followed by an immense caval- 
 cade of oliicers, civil and military, and citizens of all 
 ranks. The sireets were hung with stripes and stars. 
 When the crowd arrived opposite Christ's Church in 
 Second-street, it was met by a large body of respec- 
 table seamen, who fastened another rope to the car- 
 riage in w hich the people were hauHng the gallant cap- 
 tain ; (for long before they had unharnessed the horses) 
 and the whole moved through the city with continu- 
 al shouts. When they arrived at the mansion house 
 hotel, the sailors took him on their shoulders and car- 
 ried him in with huzzas. 
 
 Congress voted their thanks to Capt. Lewis War- 
 rington, oihcers and crew of the Peacock, for the skill 
 and bravery displayed in the capture of the Epcrvicr. 
 They also gave to Capt. Warrington a gold medal with 
 emblematic devices : to each of the commissioned offi- 
 cers, a silver medal, with like devices, and to each of 
 the midshipmen and sailing masters a sword. 
 
 The president of the United States, at the request 
 of congress presented to Capt. Johnston Blakeley of 
 the sloop-of-war Wasp,Sigo\d medal with suitable devi- 
 ces, and a silver medal, with like devices, to each of the 
 commissioned officers ; and also a sword to each of the 
 midshipmen and sailing masters of that vessel, in tes- 
 timony of the high sense entertained by the legislature 
 of the nation, of their gallantry and good conduct 
 in the action with the British sloop of war Reindeer. 
 
 A public dinner was given to Capt. Biddle of the 
 sloop-of-war Hornet, at Tammany Hall, New York. 
 The company was numerous, the guests distinguish- 
 ed, and the toasts American. 
 
 The congress of the United States passed a resolu- 
 
296 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 tion expressive of the high sense entertained by tlint 
 body of the gallantry and good conduct of Com. 
 Daniel T. Patterson and Maj. D. Carmick, and of the 
 officers, seamen, and marines under their command, 
 in the defence of New Orleans. 
 
 The corporation of New York voted tlie freedom 
 of that city in a golden box, to Capt. Charles Stewart, 
 of the frigate Constitution, for his gallantry and nau- 
 tical skill displayed in the capture of the British ships 
 Cyane and Levant ; and also the thanks of t! e cor- 
 poration to the officers and crew of the frigate for the 
 brave manner in which they engaged, fought and con- 
 quered on that occasion. 
 
 The Constitution, when entering Boston harbour, 
 fired a salute, which was immediately returned from 
 Fort Independence. On anchoring, "this glorious ves- 
 sel was welcomed to her native place by federal sa- 
 lutes from the Washington Artillery, and a company 
 of citizens. Capt. Stewart then left the ship hi his 
 barge, accompanied by several officers belonging to 
 the squadron under a salute ; and was received at 
 Long Wharf, by his assembled fellow citizens, with 
 repeated huzzas, and other hearty demonstrations of 
 gratitude and respect. The officers of the Boston 
 brigade, being that day on duty, proceeded in a body 
 to the place of landing, and through their commander, 
 Gen. Welles, paid their respects and congratulations 
 to their gallant and meritorious fellow countrymen. 
 An escort, composed of the Boston Fusiliers and Win- 
 slow Blues, under Capt. Fairbanks, conducted Capt. 
 Stewart, and the other officers of the ship, to the I'^x- 
 change Coffee House, amidst the repeated cheers of the 
 citizeiis of both sexes, who filled the streets,wharves and 
 vessels, and occupied the houses. The procession 
 was closed by a large number of citizens. A repast 
 was provided at the Coffee House, (where Capt. Stew- 
 art received the congratulations of a great number of 
 citizens and siraugers) during which a full band of 
 music played national airs and marches ; and the 
 ships, wiiarves, and State-street were beautifully dec- 
 orated with the colors of all nations. 
 
NAVAL MONUME.VT. 297 
 
 WAR WITH ALGIERS. 
 
 This war was declared on the 2d of March, 1815, 
 and was hrought to an honorable termination in the 
 short space of four monihs. We have room to in- 
 sert only the following documents relative to it. 
 
 COPY OF A LETTER FROM COM. DECATUR TO THE SECRETA- 
 RY OF 1 HE NAVY. 
 
 U. S. Shi]) Guerriere, Bay of Tunis ^ 
 
 «iR, Juhj 31, 1815. 
 
 I HAVE the honor to inform you, that upon my arri- 
 val at this anchorage, I was made acquainted with the 
 following transactions, which had taken place here 
 during our late war with Great Britain. 
 
 Two prizes, which had been taken by the Abccllino 
 privateer, and sent into this port, were taken posession 
 of by a British vessel of war while lying within the 
 protection of the Bey of Tunis. The consul having 
 communicated to me information of this violation of 
 our trealy with Tunis, I demanded satisfaction of the 
 Bey. After some hesitation, and proposing a dtlay 
 of payment for one year, my demand was acceded to, 
 and the money amounting to $46,000, was paid into 
 the hands of the consul, Mr. Noah, agent for the pri- 
 vateer. 
 
 I shall proceed immediately for Tripoli, and will 
 give you early information of the further proceedings 
 of this squadron. The Bey of Tunis has now lying 
 in this harbour, nearly ready for sea, three frigates and 
 several small vessels of war. 
 I have the honor to he, 
 
 with great respect, sir, your obe't serv't, 
 
 STEPHEN DECATUR. 
 
 Hon. B. W. Crowninshield. « 
 Secretary of the navy. 
 
 38 
 
298 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COM. DECATUR TO THE 
 SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 U. S. Ship Guerriere, Messina, Aug. 13, 1815 
 
 I HAVE the honor to inform you, that immediately 
 after the date of my last communication I proceeded 
 to Tripoli. Upon my arrival off that place, I received 
 from our consul a letter ; in consequence of the in- 
 formation contained in this letter, I deemed it neces- 
 sary to demand justice from the Bashaw. On the next 
 day the governor of the city of Tripoli came on 
 board the Guerriere, to treat in behalf of the Bashaw, 
 He objected to the amount claimed by us, but finally 
 agreed to our demands. The money, amounting to 
 the sum of $25,000, has been paid into the hands of 
 the consul, who is agent for the privateer. 
 
 The Bashaw also delivered up to me ten cap- 
 tives, two of them Danes, and the others Neapoli- 
 tans. 
 
 During the progress of our negotiations with the 
 states of Barbary, no\\ brought to a conclusion, there 
 has appeared a disposition on I he part of each of them, 
 to grant as far as we were d sposed to demand. 
 
 I trust that the succc sful result of our small ex- 
 pedition, so honorable to our country, will induce 
 other nations to follow the example ; in which case 
 the Barbary states will be compelled to abandon 
 their piraiical system. 
 
 I shall now proceed with the squadron to Cartha- 
 gena, at which place I hope to find the relief squadron 
 from America. 
 
 COPY OF A LETTER FROM COM. BAINBRIDGE TO THE SEC- 
 RETARY OF THE NAVY. 
 
 U. S. Ship Independence, off the Bay of Tunis, 
 
 September 6, 1815. 
 
 I HAD the hoiior of making communications to you 
 from Carthagenn on the 10th ultimo, from which j)lace 
 I sailed with the Indepcndance, Congress, Erie, Chip- 
 pewa, and Spark, destir^-d for Trij)oli, having learned 
 that a misunderstanding existed between ihe Bashaw 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 299 
 
 of that place, and our consul residing there. On my 
 way I called at Algiers to exhibit this additional force 
 off there, presuming it would have some weight in pre- 
 serving the peace which had just been made; for the 
 only mode of convincing these people is by occular 
 demonstration. 
 
 On my arrival off Tripoli, I learned that Com. De- 
 catnre had been there with the first squadron, and had 
 adjusted our differences, which existed at that place. 
 Our consul at Tripoli informed me, that the exhibiting 
 of our naval force before Trpoli had produced a most 
 favorable change in the disposition of the Bashaw for 
 preserving the peace with us. 
 
 At Tripoli, learning that the Bey of Tunis was rest- 
 less towards the United Sta.es, I immediately pro- 
 ceeded with the vessels with me for that place. 
 
 On my arrival at Tunis, I learned by a letter from 
 our consul there, that the Bey and his officers were 
 friendly disposed towards us. 
 
 Having agreeably to your instructions, exhibited the 
 force under my command to all the Barbary powers, 
 (and which I believe, will have a tendancy to prolong 
 our treaties with them,) 1 have only now, in further 
 obedience to those instructions, to return with the 
 squadron to the United States. 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LiriTER FKOM THE SAME TO THE SAME. 
 
 V. S. Ship Independance, Malaga, 
 
 September 14, 1815. 
 
 I arrived here yesterday, under the expectation of 
 meeting here the first squadron ; but to my regret. Com. 
 Decatur has not yet come down the Mediterranean, 
 and where the squadron with him is I know not ; for 
 the last I learned of them was off TripoH, which 
 place they left on the 9th ultimo. 
 
 As the squadron has to return this autumn, in pursu- 
 ance of your orders, it is very desirable that it should 
 leave this sea as soon as possible, to avoid the inclem 
 ency'of the winter on oi r coast, particularly on ac- 
 count of the smaller 'essels. The Independence, 
 
300 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 Congress Boxer, Saranac, Chippewa, and Spark are 
 here ; the Erie I expect every hour from Malta, 
 where, I had sent her ; the Torch and Lynx are at 
 Carthagena. All these vessels will be prepared imme- 
 diately to return ; but they cannot sail till the other 
 squadron has joined us. 
 
 Copy af a letter from Com. Decatur to his excellen- 
 cy the Marquis Cercello, Secretary of State and 
 Minister of Foreign affairs to his Majesty the King 
 of JVaples. 
 
 Sir, U. S. Ship Guerriere, JVaples, Sept. 8, 1815. 
 
 I HAVE the honor to inform your excellency, that 
 in my late negoclation with the Bashaw of Tripoli, I 
 demanded and obtained the release of eight Neapoli- 
 tan captives, subjects of his majesty the king of the 
 two Sicilies. These I have landed at Mesina. It 
 affords me great pleasure to have had it in my power, 
 by this small service, to evince to his majesty the 
 grateful sense entertained by our government of the 
 aid formerly rendered to us by his majesty, during our 
 war with Tripoli. 
 
 With great respect and consideration, I have the 
 honor to be your excellency's most obedient servant, 
 
 STEPHEN DECATUR. 
 
 His Excellency the Marquis Cercello, 
 Secretary of State, <^-c. <^c. 
 
 Sir, JVaples, Sept. 12, 1815. 
 
 Having laid before the king my master, the paper 
 which you have directed me, dated the 8th inst. in 
 whicli you were pleased to acquaint me, that in your 
 last negociation wi h the Bey of Tripoli, you had freed 
 from the slavery of thnt Regency <Mght subjects of his 
 majesty, whom you had also set on shore at Mesina; 
 his n'ajesty lias ordered me to acknowledge this pecu- 
 har favor, as the act of your generosity, wiiich you 
 have ben pleased to call a return for the trifling assis- 
 tance which the squadion of your nation formerly re- 
 ceived f; oni his royal government during the war with 
 Tripoli. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 301 
 
 In doing myself the pleasure of manifesting this 
 sentiment of my king, and of assuring you in his 
 name, that the brave American nation will always 
 find in his majesty's ports the best reception — I beg 
 you will receive the assurances of my most distinguish- 
 ed consideration. 
 
 Marquis CERCELLO, 
 Secretarij of State and Minister of 
 Foreign Jiff airs. 
 Com. Decatur, Commander of the 
 Squadron of U. S. of America. 
 
 extract of a letter fr()31 a\ officer of the 
 
 u. s. navy. 
 
 Bay of JVaples, Sept. 10, 1815. 
 This being the first opportunity since we left Al- 
 giers, I use it. We left Algiers the 8th July, and on 
 the 15th arrived at Cagliari, for water and refresh- 
 ments ; on the 25th sailed for Tunis, and on the fol- 
 lowing day anchored in the bav, in a fine position. 
 The commodore immediately made his compliments to 
 the Bey, signifying to him that, as ho had permitted 
 two brigs, prizes to the United States tiag, to betaken 
 f»om under his batteries by an English ship of war, 
 contrary to the usages of war and civilized nations, 
 he having power to resist this violation of this port ; 
 the purpose of his visit was to demand indemnity for 
 this breach of good fiiith, and he would expect it to 
 be sent on board by a given hour on the day named : 
 the commodore sent an estimate of the value of the 
 prizes, and although there appears to have been great 
 consternation, the demand was promptly complied with, 
 and the indemnity sent on board ; having accomplish- 
 ed this service by the 2d of August, we sailed for, and 
 on the 5th anchored before Tripoli, where we had a 
 similar ceremony to perform, and v^^hich was conduc- 
 ted in the same smooth, cool, decided way without any 
 palaver, which would leave room to doubt that we 
 should do as we said. The Bey of TripoU appears 
 not to have had so much of the ready at command, 
 
302 
 
 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 but showed equal readiness with his neighbour to com- 
 ply with the demand : falhng short of the indemnity 
 required, he signified that there was a Danish family 
 in his posession, consisting of nine persons, and two 
 other Europeans, whom he was willing to deliver up 
 to tnake good the indemnity demanded ; the commo- 
 dore did not hesitate a moment, and we had the satis- 
 faction to see them soon after arrive on board out 
 squadron. I need not say how gratifying this cruise 
 must be to every American soul : how delightful it 
 was to see the stars and stripes holding forth the 
 handsof retributive justice to the barbarians, and res- 
 cuing the unfortunate, even of distant but friendly 
 European nations, from slavery. 
 
 On the 10th, we arrived at Syracuse, and on the 
 20th at Messina, where we underwent some repairs, 
 and on the 2d September arrived at this place. 
 
 EXTRACT OF A LETTER I ROM AN OFFICER ON BOARD 
 THE UNITED STATES BRIG ENTERPRIZE. 
 
 "We remained at Malaga about two days, and then 
 returned to Gibralter — here we were jomed by all 
 Com. Decatur's squadron, excepting his own ship. 
 Our fleet now consisted of the Independence, Mace- 
 donian, United States, Constellation, Congress^ On- 
 tario, Erie, Enterprize, Cliipptiva, Suranac, hoxer, 
 Firejiy, Flainbe'iu,Tui'ch, Spitfire, Spat^k, and Lynx. 
 It was a proud sight for an American to see in a 
 British port just at the close of a war wilh her, which 
 the English thought would have been the destruction 
 of our navy, a squadron of seventeen sail, larger per- 
 haps than our whole navy at the commencement of that 
 war. At Malaga the governor waited on Com. Bain- 
 bridge on board his ship an honor which he had never 
 deigned to pay to any admiral belbre. On our arrival 
 at (iibraltcr the commodore fired a salute of seventeen 
 guns, which was returned. 
 
 " You have no idea of the respect which the Amer- 
 ican character has gained by our late wars. The 
 Hpaniarcis especially, think we are devils incarnate • 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 303 
 
 as wc beat the English, who beat the French, who 
 beat them, whom nobody ever beat before — and the 
 Algerines wliom the devil himself could not beat. 
 
 ANECDOTES. 
 
 At the time Decatur arrived in sight of Gibralter, 
 a great number of British officers and citizens, and 
 among them an American gentleman, were assembled 
 on an eminence to view the American fleet. Decatur 
 entered the harbour with his squadron in a very hand- 
 some style ; sailed round, and went out again, with- 
 out coming to anchor — ^his object being merely to 
 make signals to the sloop of war Ontario. The Brit- 
 ish oflicers were very desirous of knowing the diff*erent 
 names of the vessels of the squadron as they approach- 
 ed. The shrewd American pretended to know every 
 vessel the moment he saw her broadside, and they 
 crowded around him for information. The first frig- 
 ate, he said, was the Guerriere ; the second, the JUace- 
 donian ; the third, the Java ; the next was the Eper- 
 vier ; the next the Peacock ; and the next — " oh, damn 
 the next," they exclaimed, and immediately moved off, 
 highly disgusted with the names of the vessels of the 
 Yankee squadron. 
 
 It is said the Dey of Algiers very reluctantly gave 
 up all idea of receiving tribute from the Americans, 
 and alleged among other things, that other nations, if 
 he consented, might take advantage of it, and perhaps 
 unite and occasion his destruction. It was not the 
 amount or value of the sum he was particular about, 
 but the receiving something annually of the Ameri- 
 cans would add to his security, if it were only a little 
 powder. Com. Decatur observed, that bethought it 
 very probable, if he insisted upon receiving powder of 
 the Americans as tribute, his wishes would be grati- 
 fied, but he must certainly expect to receive balls with 
 it. His Deyship very wisely gave up the point. 
 
 When Com. Decatur's squadron was before Tunis, 
 exacting payment from the Bey, for the restored prizes, 
 there were in the harbour G Tunisian frigates,6 corvetts 
 
304i NAVAL moni:meivt ' 
 
 and brigs, and 50 gun-boats. Capi. Gordon was em 
 ployed to receive the money of llie Bey. 
 
 The American Commissioners to the Dey of Algiers. 
 
 The undersigned have the honor to inform liis liigh- 
 ness, tlie Dey of Algiers, that they have been appoin- 
 ted, by the president of tlie United Stales of Amer- 
 ica, commissioners plenipotentiary to treat of peace 
 with his highness, and that pursuant to their instruc- 
 tion, they are ready to open a negotiation for the res- 
 toration of peace and harmony between the two coun- 
 tries, on terms just and honorable to both parties ; 
 and they feel it incumbant on them to state explicitly 
 to his highness, that they areinstructed to treat upon no 
 other principle than that of perfect equality, and on 
 the terms of the most favored nations ; no stipula- 
 tion for paying any tribute to Algiers, under any form 
 whatever will be agreed to. 
 
 The undersigned have the honor to transmit here- 
 with a letter from the President of the United States, 
 and avail themselves of this occasion to assure his 
 highness of their high consideration and profound 
 respect. 
 
 Documents accompaning the message of the Presi- 
 dent transmitting to the senate the treaty of 
 peace ivith Algiers. 
 
 U. S. Ship Guerriere, Bay of Algiers, 
 Sir, July t, 1815. 
 
 We have the honor to refer you to the official re- 
 ports of Com. Decatur to the navy department, for 
 an account of the operations of this squiidron previous 
 to our arrival otf Algiers on the 28th ultimo. 
 
 Having received information, tiial the Algerine 
 squadron had been at sea for a considerable time lon- 
 ger than that to which their cruises usually exten- 
 ded, and that a dispatch boat had been sent from 
 Gibraltar to Algiers to inform them of our arrival in 
 the Me literranean, we thought that they might have 
 made a harbour where they wouKl be in safety. We 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 805 
 
 iherefore, whilst they were in this state of uncertainty, 
 believe it a proper moment to dehver the President's 
 letter, agreeably to our instruction. Accordingly, 
 on the 2(h\\ uit. a flag of truce was hoisted on board 
 the Gucrriere with the Swedish flag at the main. A 
 boat came otf about noon with Mr. Norderiing, consul 
 of Sweden, and the captain of the port who confirmed 
 the in elligence we had before received, and to whom 
 we communicated information of the capture of their 
 frigate and brig. The impression made by these 
 events was visible and deep. We were requested by 
 the captain of the port (Mr. Norderiing declaring he 
 was not authorized to act,) to state the conditions on 
 which we would make peace, to which we replied, by 
 giving the letter of the President to theDey, and by 
 a note from us to him, a copy of which (No. i) we 
 have the honor to transmit herewith. The captain of 
 the port then requested that hostilities should cease, 
 pending the negotiation, and that persons authorized 
 to treat should go on shore, he and Mr. Nordorling 
 both alfirming that the minister of marine had pledged 
 himself foj* our security and return to our ships when 
 we pleased. Both these propositions were rejected, 
 and they were explicity informed that the negotiation 
 must be carried on board the fleet, and that hostilities, 
 as far as they respected vessels, could not cease — 
 They returned on shore. On the following day the 
 same persons returned and informed us, tiiat they 
 were commissioned by the Dey to treat with us on the 
 proposed basis, and their anxiety appeared extreme to 
 conclude the peace immediately. We then brought 
 forward the model of a treaty, which we declared 
 would not be departed from in substance, at the same 
 time declaring, that although the United States would 
 never stipulate for paying tribute under any form 
 whatever, yet that they were a magnanimous and gener- 
 ous nation, who would upon the presentation of con- 
 suls do what was cus omary with other great nations, 
 in their friendly intercourse with Algiers. The treaty 
 was then examined and they were of opinion, that it 
 
 39 
 
306 NAVAL MOxNUMENT. 
 
 would not be agreed to in its present form, and par- 
 ticularly requested that the article, requiring the res- 
 titution of the property they had captured, and which 
 had been distributed, might be expunged, alleging that 
 such a demand had never before been made upon 
 Algiers. To this it was answered, that the claim was 
 just, and would be adhered to. They then asked 
 whether, if the treaty should be signed by the Dey, 
 we would engage to restore the captured vessels, which 
 we refused. They then represented that it was not 
 the present Dey who had declared the war, which they 
 acknowledged to be unjust, conceding that they were 
 wholly in the wrong, and had no excuse, and reques- 
 ted we would take the case of the Dey into consider- 
 ation, and upon his agreeing to terms with us more 
 favorable than had ever before been made with any 
 other nation, to restore the ships, which they stated 
 would be of little or no value to us, but would be of 
 great importance to him, as they would satisfy the 
 people with the conditions of the peace we were go- 
 ing to conclude with him. 
 
 We consulted upon this question, and determined 
 that, considering the state of those vessels, the sums 
 that would be required to fit them for a passage to the 
 United States, and the httle probability of selling 
 them in this part of the world, we would make a com- 
 pliment of them to his highness in the state they then 
 were, the commodore engaging to furnish them with an 
 escort to tiiis port. This however, would depend upon 
 their signing the treaty as presented to them, and could 
 not appear as an article of it, but must be considered 
 as a favor conferred on the Dey by the United States. 
 
 They then requested a truce, to deliberate upon the 
 terms of the proposed treaty, which was refused ; 
 they then pie ided for three hours. The reply was, 
 " not a minute ; if your squadron npj)ears in sight be- 
 fore the treaty is actually signed by the Dey, and the 
 prisoners sent off, ours would capture them." It was 
 finally agreed that hostilities should cease, when we 
 perceived their boat coming ofl'witli a white iiag hois- 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 307 
 
 ted ; Swedish consul pledging liis word of honor not 
 to hoist it unless the treaty was signed and the 
 prisoners in the boat. They returned on shore, and al- 
 though the distance was full live miles, they came back 
 within three hours, with the treaty signed, as we had 
 concluded it, and the prisoners. 
 
 During the inlerval of the absence, a corvette ap- 
 peared in sight, which would have been captured if 
 tiiey had been detained one hour longer. The treaty 
 has since been drawn out anew, transhited by them, 
 and duly executed by the Dey, which we have the hon- 
 or to transmit herewith. 
 
 Mr.Shaler has since been on shore, and the cotton 
 and money mentioned in the fourth article, have been 
 given up to him. They now show every disposition to 
 maintain a sincere peace with us, which is doubtless 
 owing to the dread of our arms ; and we take this oc- 
 casion to remark, that, in our opinion, the only secure 
 guarantee we can have for the maintenance of the 
 peace just concluded with those people, is the pres- 
 ence, in the Mediterranean, of a respectable naval 
 force. 
 
 As this treaty appears to us to secure every inter- 
 est within the contemplation of the government, and as 
 it really places the United States on higher ground 
 tlian any otber nation, we have no hesitation on our 
 part, in fulfiling such of its provisions as are within our 
 power, in the tirm belief that it will receive the rati- 
 fication of the President and Senate. 
 
 We have the honor to be, with respect, 
 
 Sir, your o!)edient servants. 
 STEPHEN DECATUR. 
 Hon. James Monroe, WILLIAM SHALER. 
 
308 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 JAMES MADISON 
 
 PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 
 
 To all and singular to ivhom these Presents shall 
 
 come.... Greeting: 
 
 WHEREAS a Treaty of Peace and Amity, be- 
 tween the United States of America and his Highness 
 Omar Bashaw, Dey of Algiers, was concluded at Al- 
 giers on the thirtieth day of June last, by Stephen 
 Decatur and William Shaler, citizens of the United 
 States, on the part of the United States and the said 
 Omar Bashaw, Dey of Algiers, and was duly signed 
 and sealed by the said parties, which Treaty is in the 
 words following, to wit : 
 
 TREATY of Peace and Amity, concluded between 
 the United States of America and His • Highness 
 Omar Bashaiv, Dey of Algiers. 
 
 Art. 1. There shall be, from the conclusion of this 
 treaty, a firm, inviolable and universal peace and 
 friendship between the President and the citizens of 
 the United Siates of America, on the one part, and 
 the Dey and Subjects of the Regency of Algiers in 
 Barhary on the other, made by the free consent of 
 both parties, on the terms of the most favorable na- 
 tions : and if either party shall hereafter grant to any 
 other nation any particular favor or privilege in navi- 
 gation or commerce, it shall immediately become com- 
 mon to the other party, freely when it is freely granted 
 to such o'her nations ; but when the grant is condition- 
 al, it shall be at the option of the contracting parties to 
 accept, alter, or reject such conditions, in such maimer 
 as shall be most conducive to their respective inter- 
 ests. 
 
 Art. 2. It is distinctly understood between the 
 contracting parties, that no tribute, either as biennial 
 presents, or under any other form or name whatever, 
 shall ever be required by the Dey and Regency of 
 Algiers from the United States of America, on any 
 pretext whatever. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 309 
 
 Art. 3. The Dey of Algiers shall cause to be im- 
 mediately delivered up to the American squadron, now 
 off Algiers, all the American citizens, now in Lis pos- 
 session, amounting to ten, more or less ; and all the 
 subjects of the Dey of Algiers, now in possesion of 
 the United States, amounting to five hundred, more or 
 less, shall be delivered up lo him, the United States, 
 according to usages of civilized nations, requiring no 
 ransom for the excess of prisoners in their favors. 
 
 Art. 4. A just and full compensation shall be made 
 by the Dey of Algiers, to such citizens of the United 
 States, as have been captured and detained by Alge- 
 rine cruisers, or who have been forced to abandon their 
 property in Algiers in violation of the twenty-second 
 article of the treaty of peace and amity concluded be 
 tween the United States and the Dey of Algiers, on 
 the 5th of September, 1795. 
 
 And it is agreed between the contracting parties, 
 that in lieu of the above, the Dey of Algiers shall 
 cause to be delivered forthwith into the hands of the 
 American consul, residing at Algiers, the whole of a 
 quantity of bales of cotton left by the late consul gen- 
 eral of the United States in the public magazines in Al- 
 giers, and that he shall pay into the hands of the said 
 consul the sum of ten thousand Spanish dollars. 
 
 Art. 5. If any goods, belonging to any na ion with 
 which either of the parties is at war, should he loaded 
 on board vessels belonging to the other party, they 
 shall pass free and unmolested, and no attempts shall 
 be made to take or detain them. 
 
 Art. 6. If any citizens or subjects with their effects, 
 belonging to either party, shall be found on board a 
 prize vessel taken from an enemy by the other party, 
 such citizens or subjects shall be liberated immediate- 
 ly, and in no case, on any o her pretence wliatever, 
 shall any American citizen be kept in ca|)tivity or con- 
 finement, or the property of any American citizen, 
 found on board of any vessel belonging to any other 
 nation, with which Algiers niav be at war, be detained 
 from its lawful owners after the exhibition of sufficient 
 
310 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 proofs of American cinzenship and of American prop. 
 erty by the consul of the United States, residing at 
 Algiers. 
 
 Art. 7. Proper passports shall immediately be giv- 
 en to the vessels of both the contracting parties, on 
 condition that the vessels of war belonging to the Re- 
 gency of Algiers, on meeting with merchant vessels 
 belonging to the citizens of the United States of 
 America, shall not be permitted to visit them with 
 more than two persons besides the rowers ; these only 
 shall be permitted to go on board, without first obtain- 
 ing leave from the commander of said vessel, who 
 shall compare the passport, and immediately permit 
 said vessel to proceed on her voyage ; and should any 
 of the subjects of Algiers insult or molest the com- 
 mander or any other person on board a vessel so visi- 
 ted, or plunder any of the property contained in her, 
 on complaint being made by the consul of the United 
 States residing in Algiers, and on his producing suffi- 
 cient proof to substantiate the fact, the commander of 
 Rais of sa-d Algerine ship or vessel of war, as well 
 as the offenders, shall be punished in the most exem- 
 plary manner. 
 
 All vessels of war belonging to the United States 
 of America, on meeting a cruiser belonging to the 
 Regency of Algiers on bavins seen her passports and 
 certificates from the consul of the United States, resi- 
 ding in Algiers, shall permit her to proceed on her 
 cruise unmolested, and without detention. No pass- 
 port shall be granted by either party to any vessel, but 
 such as are absolutely the property of citizens or sub- 
 jects of the said contracting parties, on any pretence 
 whatever, 
 
 Art. 8. A citizen or subject of either of the con- 
 tracting parties having bought a prize vessel condem- 
 r d by the other party, or by any other nation, tliecer- 
 tili'^ntes of condemnation and bill of sale shall be a 
 sufficient passport for such vessel for six months, which 
 considering the distance between the two countries, is 
 no more than a reasonable time for her to procure 
 proper passports. 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 31 1 
 
 Jlrt. 9. Vessels of either of the contracting par- 
 ties, putting into the ports of the other, and having 
 need of provisions or other supphes, shall be furnished 
 at the market price ; and if any such vessel should so 
 put in from a distance at sea, and have occasion to re- 
 pair, she shall be at liberty to land and re-embark her 
 cargo without paying any customs or duties whatever ; 
 but in no case shall she be compelled to land her 
 ca-go. 
 
 irt. 10. Should a vessel of either of the contrac- 
 ting parties be cast on shore within the territories of 
 the other, all proper assistance shall be given to her 
 crew : no pillage shall be allowed. The property 
 shall remain at the disposal of the owners, and if re- 
 shipped on board of any vessel for exportation, no 
 customs or duties whatever shall be required to be 
 paid thereon, and the crew shall be protected and 
 secured, until they can be sent to their own country. 
 
 Art. 11. If a vessel of either of the contracting 
 parties shall be attacked by an enemy within cannon 
 shot of the forts of the other, she shall be projected 
 as much as possible. If she be in port she shall not 
 be seized or attacked, when it is in the power of the 
 other party to protect her ; and when she proceeds to 
 sea, no enemy shall be permitted to pursue her from 
 the same port, within twenty-four hours after her de- 
 parture. 
 
 Jlrt. 12. The commerce between the United States 
 of America and the Regency of Algiers, the protec- 
 tions to be given to merchants, masters of vessels, and 
 seamen, the reciprocal rights of establishing consuls 
 m each country, and the privileges, immunities and 
 jurisdiction to be enjoyed by such consuls, are de- 
 clared to be on the same footing in every respect with 
 the most favored nations respectively. 
 
 Art. 13. The consul of the United States of Amer- 
 ica shall not be responsible for the debts contracted 
 by citizens of his own nation, unless he previously 
 gives written obligations so to do. 
 
 Art. 14. On a vessel or vessels of war, belonging 
 
312 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 to the United States, anchoring before the city of Al- 
 giers, the consul is to inform the Dev of her arrival, 
 when she shall receive the salutes which are by treaty 
 or custom given to the ships of war of favored nations, 
 on similar occasions and which shall be returned gun 
 for gun ; and if after such arrival, so announced, any 
 Christians whatsoever, in Algiers make their escape 
 and take refuge on board any of the ships of war, they 
 shall not be required back again, nor shall the consul 
 of the United States, or commander of said ships, be 
 required to pay any thing for the said Christians, 
 
 Art. 15. As the government of the United States 
 of America has in itself no character of enmity 
 against the laws, religion or tranquility of any nation, 
 and as the said States have never entered into any 
 voluntary war or act of hostility, except in defence 
 of their just rights on the high seas, it is declared by 
 the contracting parties, that no pretext arising from re- 
 ligious opinions shall ever produce an interruption of 
 the harmony existing between the two nations ; and 
 the consuls and agents of both nations shall have lib- 
 erty to celebrate the rites of their respective religions 
 in their own houses. 
 
 The consuls respectively shall have liberty and per- 
 sonal security given them to travel within tiie territo- 
 ries of each other both by land and sea, and shall not 
 be prevented from going on board any vessels they 
 may think proper to visit ; they shall likewise have 
 the liberty to appoint their own drogoman and bro- 
 ker. 
 
 Art. 16. In case of any dispute arising from the 
 violation of any of the articles of this treaty, no ap- 
 peal shall be made to arms, nor shnll war be declared 
 on any pretext whatever; but if the consul, residing 
 at the place where the dispute shall happen, shall not 
 be able to settle the same, the goveriunent of that 
 coun-ry shall state their grievance in writing, and 
 transmit the same to the government of the other, and 
 the period of three monihs shall be alloW( d for an- 
 swers to be returned, during which time no act of 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 313 
 
 hostility shall ho permitted hy either party ; and in 
 case the grievances are not red^-esscd, and a war 
 should he the event, the consul nni citizens, and sub- 
 jects of both parties respec ively, shall be persnitted 
 to embark with their etiects unmolested, on board of 
 what vessel or vessels they shall think p- oper, reason- 
 able time being allowed for that purpose. 
 
 Art. 17. If in the course of events, a war shouhl 
 break out between the two nations, the prisoners cap- 
 tured by either party shall nor be made slaves;they shall 
 not be forced to hard labor, or other confinement than 
 such as may be necessary to secure their safe keeping, 
 and shall be exchanged rank for rank ; and it is agreed 
 that prisoners shall be exchanged in twelve months af- 
 ter their capture, and the exchange may be effected 
 by any private individual legally authorized by either 
 of the parties. 
 
 Art. 18. If any of the Barbary states o:* other 
 powers at war wiih the United States, shall capture 
 any American veSsel and send it into any port of the 
 Regency of Algiers, they shall not be permitted to 
 sell her, but shall be forced to depart the port, on 
 procuring the requisite supplies of provision: But the 
 vessels of war of the United Slates, with any prizes 
 they may capture from their enemies shall have liberty 
 to frequent th<; port of Algiers, for refreshment of any 
 kind and to sell such prizes, in the said ports, without 
 any other customs or duties, than such as are custom- 
 ary on ordinary commercial importation. 
 
 Art. 19. If any of the citizens of the United States, 
 or any persons under their protection, shall have any 
 disputes with each olher, the consul shall decide be- 
 tween the parties, and whenever the consul shall re- 
 quire any aid or assistance from the government of 
 Algiers to inforce his decisions, it shall be imnfiediate- 
 ly granted to him ; and if any disputes shall arise be 
 tween any citizens of the United States and the citi- 
 zens or subjects of any other nation having consul or 
 agent in Algiers, such disputes shall be settled by the 
 consuls or agents of the respective nations; and any 
 
 4n 
 
314 NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 disputes or suits at law that may take place between 
 any citizens of the United States and the subjects of 
 the Regency of Algiers, shall be decided by the Dey 
 in person and no other. 
 
 Art. 20. If a citizen of the United States should 
 kill, wound, or strike a subject of Algiers, or, on the 
 contrary a subject of Algiers should kill, wound, or 
 strike a citizen of the United States, the law of the 
 country shall take place, and equal justice shall be 
 rendered, the consul assisting at the trial ; but the 
 sentence of punishment against an Amerinan citizen 
 shall not be gredter, or more severe, than it would be 
 against a Turk in the same predicament, and if any 
 delinquent should make his escape, the consul shall 
 not be responsible for him in any manner whatever. 
 
 jlrt. 21. The consul of the United States of Amer- 
 ica shall not be required to pay any custom or duties 
 whatever on any thmg he imports for a foreign country 
 for the use of his house and family. 
 
 Art. 22. Should any of the citizens of the United 
 States of America die within the limits of the Regen- 
 cy of Algiers, the Dey and his subjects shall not in- 
 terfere with the property of the deceased, but it shall 
 be under the immediate direction of the consul, unless 
 otherwise disposed of by will. Should there be no 
 consul, the effect siiall be deposited in the hands of 
 some person worthy of trust, until the party shall ap- 
 pear who has a right to demand them, when they shall 
 render an account of the property ; neither shall the 
 Dey or his subjects give hindrance in the execution of 
 any wfll that may appear. 
 
 Now therefore be it known, that I .]aincs Madison, 
 President of the United States of America, having 
 seen and considered the said Treaty, have by and 
 with the advice and consent of the Senate, accepted, 
 ratified and confirmed the same, and every clause and 
 article thereof 
 
NAVAL MONUMENT. 
 
 315 
 
 In testimony wherefore I have caused the seal of 
 the United States to be hereunto affixed, and 
 (l. s.) have signed the same with my hand. Done at 
 the City of Washington this twenty-sixth day 
 of December, A. D. one thousand eight hun- 
 dred and fifteen, and of the Independence of 
 the United States the fortieth. 
 
 JAMES MADISON. 
 
 By the President, JAMES MONROE, Secretary of Slate. 
 
 The following list comprises the names of all the 
 vessels belonging to the United States navy in 1812, 
 before the late war with Great Britian. Those mark- 
 ed in italics were lost during the war. The Boston, 
 burnt at Washington, was a mere hulk, not worth re- 
 pair as was also the JVew York, which escaped the 
 flames. 
 
 Ship 
 
 
 Rale. 
 
 
 Rate. 
 
 United States 
 
 - 44 
 
 Hornet - - 
 
 - 18 
 
 President 
 
 - 44 
 
 Wasp - - 
 
 - 18 
 
 Constitution 
 
 - 44 
 
 Brig Adams - - 
 
 - 18 
 
 Chesapeake 
 
 - 36 
 
 Onedia - -. 
 
 - 16 
 
 Constellation 
 
 - 36 
 
 Syren - - 
 
 - 16 
 
 Congress 
 
 - 36 
 
 Argus - - 
 
 - 16 
 
 New York - 
 
 - 32 
 
 Enterprize - 
 
 - 14 
 
 Mams - 
 
 - 42 
 
 Rattlesnake 
 
 - 14 
 
 Boston - 
 
 - 32 
 
 JSTautiliis 
 
 - 14 
 
 Essex 
 
 - 32 
 
 Vixen - - 
 
 - 14 
 
 John Adams 
 
 - 24 
 
 Viper - - 
 
 - 12 
 
 Louisiana 
 
 - 18 
 
 Sch'r Vixen - - 
 
 - 8 
 
 Besides gun-boats, bombs, &c. 
 
 9 
 
NAVAL REGISTER FOR 1815. 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 Dates of Com- 
 missions. 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 Dales of Com 
 missons. 
 
 CAPTAINS 
 
 Alexander Murray 
 Jdliii RoHgers 
 Jiiiiiea Barron 
 William Baiiil)riHge 
 Hugh G, (^'ampbeil 
 BteplicM Uecalur 
 Tlioinas Tiiigey 
 Cliarlfcs Stewait 
 Isaac Mull 
 Isaac Cluiuiicey 
 John Shaw 
 John H. Dent 
 David Porter 
 John Cassin 
 Saniuol Kvana 
 Charles (iordon 
 Jacob Jones 
 Charles Morris 
 Joseph Tarhell No. 
 
 Arthur Sinclair No. 
 < >liver Hazard Perry 
 Thomas Macdoiiough 
 Ji'\vi> Wariiiigtun 
 Loseph Baiiibridge 
 William Crane 
 Johii?ton Blakelry 
 James T. Leanord 
 James Uiddle No. 
 
 Chs. G. Ridgley No. 
 R. T. Spence No. 
 
 Dan. T Patterson 
 
 1 
 
 5 
 22 
 
 20 
 
 16 
 
 16 
 
 23 
 
 22 
 
 23 
 
 24 
 
 27 
 
 29 
 
 2 
 
 3 
 
 4 
 
 2 
 
 3 
 
 6 
 
 24 
 
 24 
 
 10 
 
 11 
 
 22 
 
 23 
 
 24 
 
 25 
 
 4 
 
 1|28 
 
 2' 28 
 
 328 
 
 l28 
 
 July 
 
 March 
 
 May 
 
 do 
 
 Oct. 
 
 Feb. 
 
 Nov. 
 
 April 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 Aug. 
 
 Dec. 
 
 July 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 March 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 July 
 
 o 
 Sept. 
 do 
 
 N.A-. 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 Feb 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 
 1798 
 1799 
 
 1800 
 
 4 
 
 1804 
 1806 
 
 1807 
 I81I 
 1812 
 
 1813 
 
 1814 
 
 1815 
 
 MASTERS COMM 
 
 iNt)A 
 
 MT 
 
 
 
 
 Samuel Anges 
 
 N... 
 
 4 
 
 24 
 
 Julv 
 
 1813 
 
 M.T. WloIspv 
 
 No. 
 
 7 24 
 
 do' 
 
 t 
 
 J. O. Creigliton 
 
 No. 
 
 9 
 
 24 
 
 do 
 
 ( 
 
 Ed. Treachard 
 
 \o. 
 
 10 
 
 24 
 
 do 
 
 ( 
 
 John Dovvnes 
 
 No. 
 
 11 
 
 24 
 
 do 
 
 ( 
 
 J, D. Henlnv 
 
 No. 
 
 14 
 
 24 
 
 do 
 
 ( 
 
 Jesse D. Elliott 
 
 No. 
 
 15 24 
 
 do 
 
 t 
 
 Robert Henley 
 
 
 112 
 
 Aug. 
 
 1814 
 
 Stephen Cassin 
 
 
 11 
 
 >ept. 
 
 i 
 
 Dan'l S. Dexler 
 
 No 
 
 1 10 
 
 Dec. 
 
 1814 
 
 James Renshaw 
 
 No 
 
 2 10 
 
 do 
 
 < ! 
 
 David Deacon 
 
 No 
 
 3 10 
 
 do 
 
 • 1 
 
 Lewis Alexis 
 
 No 
 
 4 10 
 
 do 
 
 ( 
 
 M. B. Carroll 
 
 No 
 
 1 4 
 
 FeS. 
 
 1815 
 
 Sidney Smith 
 
 
 
 28 
 
 do 
 
 1 
 
 Thomas Brown 
 William Lewis 
 
 LIEOTENANTS. 
 
 Nathaniel Haraden 
 Francis I. Mitchell 
 George Merrill 
 Samuel Woodhouse 
 Clis. C. B. Tliompson 
 i Joseph Nicholson 
 ■Alex. S. Wads worth 
 John Peltigiew 
 George W. Rodgers 
 George C. Read 
 Henry E. Ballard 
 Thomas Gamble 
 W illiain ('arter, Jr. 
 B. I. Neale No. 
 
 J. I. Nicholson No. 
 Walter Stewart No. 
 Wolroit Chauncey 
 John H. Ellon 
 Edmund P. Kennedy 
 Jesse Wilkinson 
 Alfxaiitler J. Dallas 
 John B. Nicholson 
 Bekmaii V. HofTinan 
 (leorge Bildd 
 Thomas A C. Jones 
 Jo.seph S. Macpherson 
 John Pol tor 
 John T. Shubrick 
 William Finch 
 iWilliain B. S ubrick 
 j Henry V\ ells 
 iB.injamin W. Booth 
 I Mexander Claxton 
 iEnos R. Davis 
 Charl.sW Morgan 
 Samuel P. Macomber 
 Raymond H.J. Parry 
 Lawrence Kearney 
 William H. Watson 
 Tliomas Hendry, Jr. 
 Fnxall \. F'arker 
 Edward R. M'Call 
 D inlel riirnir 
 Wm H. Allen No. 
 
 S. D M'Ki.ight No. 
 
 1 March 
 3 do 
 
 31 
 
 18 
 
 30 
 
 4 
 
 15 
 
 15 
 
 21 
 
 22 
 
 24 
 
 25 
 
 26 
 
 27 
 
 28 
 
 4 
 
 4 
 
 4 
 
 7 
 
 8 
 
 9 
 
 ID 
 
 13 
 
 20 
 
 21 
 
 23 
 
 24 
 
 26 
 
 27 
 
 28 
 
 4 
 
 5 
 
 6 
 
 7 
 
 8 
 
 10 
 
 3 
 
 5 
 
 6 
 7 
 8 
 9 
 11 
 12 
 :'24 
 2,24 
 
 1812 
 
 March 1807 
 
 Feb. 1809 
 
 April 
 
 May 
 
 do 
 
 June 
 
 April 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 June 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 May 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 Jan. 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 May 
 
 March 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do^ 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 Julv 
 
 do" 
 
 1813 
 
 1813 
 
318 
 
 NAVAL REGISTER. 
 
 Namea and Rank. 
 
 Datet of Com- 
 mission*. 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 I Dates of Com- 
 I mission*. 
 
 David Cannon No. 3 24 
 
 John Gallagher No. 4 24 
 Thomas Holdup No. 5 24 
 Jas. A.Dudley No 7 24 
 J as. P.Orellers No. 8 24 
 Wm. M. Hunter No. 9 24 
 John I) Sloat No. 10'24 
 
 John Dackett No 11J24 
 
 W. H Cocke No. 12 24 
 
 J. J. Yarnall No 1324 
 
 Mat. C. Perry No. 14|24 
 
 C. W. Sktnncr ^o. ]5'24 
 Joseph VVragg No. 16 24 
 James Sanders No. 17 24 
 James Reilly No. 18 24 
 S. W. AdiiiBB No. 19 24 
 J R. Madisoa No. 2l 24 
 
 D. Taylor No. 22,24 
 George Pierce No. 23 24 
 Fred \V. Smith No. 24 24 
 H. S. Newcomb No. 25 24 
 N D. Nicholson No. 26 24 
 T. Tillinghast No. 27 24 
 Otho Nciiris No, 29 24 
 J. T. Newton No. 30 24 
 P.A.J. P. Jones No. 31 24 
 Samuel Henley No. 32 24 
 
 A. Conckling No. 33 24 
 Joseph Smith No. 34 24 
 L. Rou.sseau No. 36 24 
 G. W. Storer No. 37 24 
 Henry B. Rapp No. 40 24 
 Lewis German No 41 24 
 Jo.seph Cassin No. 42 24 
 Rob. M. Rose No. 43 24 
 
 B. Kennon No. 44 24 
 Edward Shubrick 9 
 Charles A. Budd 18 
 Francis H. Gregory 2.S 
 Wm. H. Odenheimer 16 
 Edward Barnewell 22 
 John M. Maury * 9 
 Fredei ick Baury 9 
 Benjamin Coo|)er 9 
 Philip F Voorhoea 9 
 Henrv Gilliam 9 
 John H (lark- 9 
 William I>. Salter 9 
 William A. Spencer 9 
 William L Gordon 9 
 David Oei-singer 9 
 Ricluird Winter 9 
 John T. Wade 9 
 John Pprcival 9 
 Jrtinrs Ramaje 9 
 W illiani V. Taylor 9 
 M.i.iiiiie Mix 9 
 Thomas N Newell 9 
 Edward Haddaway 9 
 Charl.s V M Caw ley 9 
 John H. Bell 9 
 Dul.iny Forrest 9 
 Bladen Dulinv 9 
 Tho. W. Majruder 9 
 
 July 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 dfi 
 
 1813 
 
 lo 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 Oct. 
 June 
 do 
 July 
 do 
 Dec. 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 <lo 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 
 i'o 
 
 I'O 
 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 
 1814 
 
 Francis B. Gamble 
 Richard Dashiel 
 John 'i'ayloe 
 George B M'Culloch 
 Robert Spedder 
 Thomas T. Webb 
 Walter G. Anderson 
 Stephen (..'hamplin 
 Cliarles T. feialliuga 
 James M'Gowan 
 William Lowe 
 E. A . F Valletta 
 John H. Aulick 
 Charles T. Clarke 
 Silas Duncan 
 Thomas Cunningham 
 Isa^ic M 'Keeper 
 Robert F. Stockton 
 Nat L. Montgomery 
 Walter N- Montealh 
 A. C. Stout 
 Sdas H. Stridgham 
 George Vancleave 
 Paul Zantzinger 
 John W. Gibbs 
 John T. Drury 
 ( harles E. Cowley 
 William Lauglitoii 
 Nelsen Webster 
 Wm. A. C. Farragut 
 Richard G Edwards 
 William Merwin 
 William K. Latimer 
 Gufta us W. t-pooner 
 l.-aac Mavo 
 W illiam H.Hrailsford 
 William El iott 
 Tlioma.s Crabb 
 Edward B. Babbit 
 George Hamersley 
 
 9 July 
 9 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 
 1814 
 
 9 do 
 9 do 
 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 9 do 
 9 do 
 9 do 
 9 Dec. 
 9 do 
 9 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 Feb. 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 May 
 
 do 
 
 90RGEONS. 
 
 
 
 
 Edward Culbush 
 
 24 
 
 June, 
 
 1799 
 
 Peter ■- 1. MedanI 
 
 14 
 
 July, 
 
 ( 
 
 Samuel R. Marr.l all 
 
 16 
 
 Jan. 
 
 1800 
 
 Lewis Heerman 
 
 27 
 
 Nov, 
 
 1804 
 
 Jo.^pph G. P Hunt 
 
 27 
 
 do 
 
 t 
 
 Jonathan Cowdery 
 
 27 
 
 do 
 
 1 
 
 Samuel D. Heap 
 
 27 
 
 do 
 
 « 
 
 Riibcrt L. Tliorn 
 
 3 
 
 March, 
 
 1809 
 
 Samu.'l R Troett. Jr. 
 
 3 
 
 do 
 
 4 
 
 Wm. P. C. Barton 
 
 28 
 
 April, 
 
 C 
 
 Joseph W New 
 
 18 
 
 June, 
 
 < 
 
 Joseph S. Schoolfield 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 < 
 
 George Log-'n 
 
 14 
 
 April, 
 
 1810 
 
 Am s A. Evans 
 
 2i> 
 
 do 
 
 ( 
 
 Rob rl Morre!l 
 
 31 
 
 May, 
 
 < 
 
 Robert S. Kearney 
 
 28 
 
 July, 
 
 ( 
 
 James l';ii;e 
 
 5 
 
 Match 
 
 1811 
 
 Johr D. M'Roynolds 
 
 2 
 
 Oct. 
 
 « 
 
 Thomas Hairis 
 
 6 
 
 July, 
 
 1812 
 
 Williaiu Tu.k No. 1 
 
 24 
 
 Jidy, 
 
 1813 
 
 Hyde Rav No. 2 
 
 24 
 
 o 
 
 « 
 
 Wllli..m Baldwin No. 3' 
 
 24 
 
 do 
 
 t 
 
 1814 
 
 1815 
 
 ■ \Y^ 
 
 * The relative rank of (hose officers whose coi.miissions are dated llie 9lli of December, 
 1814, hat iiui been estaijiished. 
 
NAVAL REGISTER 
 
 319 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 Dales of Com- 
 missions. 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 Dates of C 
 missons. 
 
 om- 
 
 Win VV. Bucliaiian No. 4 24 
 Samuel Ayer No. 5 24 
 
 E. L. Lawton No. 6 24 
 
 Cliarles Cotion No. 7 24 
 
 Gerard Dayers No. 8 24 
 
 William Caton No. 9 24 
 
 Robert A. Barton No. 10 24 
 Benj. P. Kissam No. ] 1 24 
 John A. Kearney No. 13 24 
 Richani C. Edgar No. 14 24 
 H. Wasliington No. 15 24 
 Wm. M Clarks 
 Tlio's Chidester 
 Jas Iiuleruicke 
 Geo. T. Kennon 
 Walter W New 
 Samuel Horsley 15 
 
 Roljert C. Randolph 15 
 
 Charles B. Hamilton 15 
 
 Usher Parsons 15 
 
 William Swift 15 
 
 J. M.S.<^onwav 27 
 
 Richard K. Hoffman 16 
 
 Richmond Johnson 1 
 
 Thomas B. Salter 22 
 
 No. 16 24 
 No. 17 24 
 
 18 24 
 
 19 24 
 6 
 
 No 
 
 No, 
 
 SORGEOSS' MATES. 
 
 John Harrison 
 Slith Lewis 
 Gnstavus R. Brown 
 Manuel Philips 
 William Barnwell 
 William Belt 
 Donaldson Yeates 
 John D. Armstrong 
 William C. Whittlesey 
 Peter Christie 
 John Young, Jr. 
 Samuel Jackson 
 Andrew B Cook 
 James C. Garrison 
 E. D. Morrison No. 2 
 Horatio S. Warring No. 3 
 John H Gordod, Acting 
 Surgeon No. 5 
 
 Samuel M. Kissam No. 6 
 Leonard Osliorne No. 9 
 Tho's Williamson No. 7 
 John Dix No. 10 
 
 Benj. Austin, Jr No 15 
 Thomas Cadle No. 16 
 
 l.euco Mitchell No 17 
 Silas D. Wickes No. IS 
 Isaac Balwin. Jr. No. 19 
 WilinotF.RodgersNo. 20 
 'I'homas Rogerson 
 (leorge S Sproston 
 John C. Richardson 
 John W. Peaco 
 Archimedes Smith 
 Ale'r M. Montgomery 
 Oliver L'-Chpvalier 
 ^A'illiani Rnller 
 Thomas .M'Kissocb 
 
 16 
 
 23 
 
 1 
 
 18 
 
 28 
 
 23 
 
 14 
 
 27 
 
 7 
 
 8 
 
 9 
 
 10 
 
 21 
 
 22 
 
 24 
 
 2-« 
 
 24 
 24 
 24 
 24 
 24 
 24 
 24 
 24 
 24 
 24 
 24 
 25 
 
 8 
 17 
 28 
 
 5 
 16 
 10 
 10 
 10 
 
 July 1813 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 Oct. 
 
 April 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 June, 
 
 July, 
 
 March 1815 
 
 May 
 
 1814 
 
 Jan. 
 
 do 
 
 March 
 
 July 
 
 do 
 
 Sept. 
 
 May 
 
 do 
 
 July 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 Dec. 
 
 do 
 
 July 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 Oct. 
 
 Nov. 
 
 May 
 
 June 
 
 July 
 
 do 
 
 Dec 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 1805 
 1809 
 
 1810 
 1811 
 1812 
 
 1813 
 
 1814 
 
 John Wise 
 
 Thomas I. H. Cus in" 
 John H. Steel 
 S. B Whittington 
 Francis Gerrisli 
 Edward Woodward 
 Benjamin A. Welles 
 Frederick P. Markham 
 Wiliiam D. Conway 
 James N. Turnstale 
 Davis G Tuck 
 Rohert C. Wardle 
 James Norris 
 Thomas C. Gardner 
 William F. Bradbury 
 Benajah 'Tickner 
 William P. Jones 
 Thomas G. Peachy 
 John Mairs 
 John M'Adam 
 .John S. Mersnon 
 Charles Chase 
 Thomas V. Wieseiithal 
 George B. Duane 
 Amos King 
 Pliny Morion 
 Benjamin S. Tyler 
 Nathaniel Miller 
 William Burchrnore 
 Solomon D. Townsend 
 Richard Derby, Jr. 
 John R. Martin, acting 
 
 Surgeon 
 James R. Royce, acting 
 
 Surgeon's Mrite 
 David H. Fraser, acting 
 
 Surgeon's Mate, 
 
 PURSERS. 
 Isaac Garreston 
 Clement S. Hunt 
 Gwinn Harris | 
 
 John H. Carr 
 Nathaniel Lyde 
 James R. U ilson 
 Samuel Rnberlson 
 Saiiniel Hanihleton 
 Robert C. Ludlow 
 Robert Pottinger 
 John B. Tiiiilierlake 
 Thomas I. Chew . 
 Thomas Shields 
 Richard C. Archer 
 Lewis Deblois 
 George S. V\ ise 
 Francis A . Thornton 
 Edwin T. Satterwhite 
 James M. Halsey 
 Edward Pit/.gerald 
 Alexander P Dariagh 
 Fdward W. Turner 
 Robert Ormshy 
 Henry Dennison 
 Ludlow Dashwood 
 
 10 Dec, 
 
 10 .lo 
 
 10 no 
 
 10 .10 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 
 10 do 
 10 
 10 
 10 
 10 
 
 6 Jan. 
 
 10 do 
 
 1814 
 
 May. 
 do 
 
 9 May 
 10 Jan. 
 22 Feb, 
 
 1815 
 
 25 
 
 April 1812 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 2o 
 
 
 25 
 
 de 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do ' 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 25 
 
 do 
 
 
 52 
 
 do 
 
 
320 
 
 NAVAL REGISTER. 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 Datei of Com 
 missions. 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 Dates of Coi 
 missions. 
 
 William S. Kogers 
 
 Henry Fry 
 
 John R Sliaw 
 
 isiaaiuei P. Todd 
 
 ■ thaniel VV. Rothwell 
 
 orge 13eall 
 
 Hies H . Clark 
 Villiam P. Zanlzinger 
 Joseph North 
 Joseph Wilson, Jr. 
 Herman Thorn 
 Thomas VV aine 
 Le^vi^■ Fairchild 
 Jolm S. Skinner 
 Joseph B. Wilkinson 
 Ezekiei Solomon 
 Benjamin F. Bourne 
 VXilliain Sinclair 
 Richard T. Timberlake 
 8;<mUfl Livermore 
 Matthew C. Alvvood 
 ^ierome K. Spence 
 Mel.ii'cton W. Host wick 
 John N. Todd 
 Timolliy Wiim 
 William M. Sands 
 Thomns Breese 
 Joseph H. Terry, acting 
 
 Purser 
 
 CHAPLAINS. 
 
 Andrew Hunter 
 David P. Adams 
 John Cook 
 William H. Briscoe 
 Coldcn (-r)oper 
 1 heever Felch 
 A. Y. HMmjihreys, acting 
 Cliampiain 
 
 MIUSRiPMEN. 
 
 Adams, James 
 /.iiam, I{(>l)erl 
 Annsiroiii;, James A. L. 
 Alexander, Albert A. 
 Aliliot, Walter 
 Alli.-ion, William R. 
 Abbot, J 'If I 
 Avery, George 
 Ashbi id>;e, Joseph H. 
 Ailaiiis, Henry A. 
 Andrews, Alex'r M'Kim 
 Armistead, Robeit 
 Allen. William H. 
 Alexander, IVatlianicl 
 Arnistronii;, William H. 
 Abbot, Tliiiiiias ( '. 
 Adams, Iludcrirk R. 
 Rund, "-amnel 
 I'rown, 'Ihomas S. 
 Bfiiwii, I. A. I). 
 Berry, William 
 llrce/,(% SaiiincI 1>. A, />. 
 Buarman, Cliarle« 
 
 26 Feb 1813 
 
 27 do 
 27 do 
 
 1 March • 
 
 2 do ' 
 24 J lily 
 
 24 do 
 
 24 do « 
 
 24 do « 
 
 24 do 
 
 24 do 
 
 24 do ' 
 
 24 do 
 
 26 March 1814 
 
 26 do 
 
 26 do 
 
 26 do 
 
 26 do 
 
 26 do 
 
 26 do * 
 
 26 do 
 
 8 April 
 
 16 Julv 
 
 1 MaVch 1815 
 
 17 May • 
 20 do 
 
 S July 
 
 5 March 1811 
 
 10 May 
 
 19 do 1812 
 
 11 July 
 
 24 April 1815 
 
 12 May 
 
 16 
 
 Jan. 
 
 1809 
 
 18 
 
 May 
 
 ( 1 
 
 15 
 
 Nov. 
 
 ( 1 
 
 1 
 
 Sept. 
 
 1811 
 
 1 
 
 Jan. 
 
 1812 
 
 1 
 
 do 
 
 C 
 
 1 
 
 do 
 
 ( 
 
 28 
 
 do 
 
 < 
 
 14 
 
 Aug. 
 
 1813 
 
 14 
 
 March 
 
 1814 
 
 13 
 
 April 
 
 < 
 
 30 
 
 July 
 
 « 
 
 30 
 
 Nov. 
 
 < 
 
 30 
 
 do 
 
 « 
 
 30 
 
 do 
 
 4 
 
 6 
 
 Dec. 
 
 t 
 
 2 
 
 Match 
 
 1815 
 
 20 
 
 Jan. 
 
 1806 
 
 17 
 
 Dec. 
 
 1810 
 
 17 
 
 do 
 
 « 1 
 
 17 
 
 do 
 
 * 1 
 
 17 
 
 do 
 
 ' 1 
 
 9 
 
 June 
 
 1811, 
 
 Belt. William 1. 
 Belches, John A. A. L. 
 Berry, Charles 
 Bjerum William 
 Barron, Samuel 
 Biyden, John 
 Bowyer, Thomas H. 
 Bryan, Benjamin 
 Beatty, Horatio 
 Brasliears, Richard 
 Ballmger, Franklin 
 Baldwin, William 
 Bonneville, Thomas N. 
 Baker, Yorrick 
 Bell, William H. 
 Ball, Eliphalet 
 Biglow, Abraham 
 Boiien, W illiam 
 Benson, .lohn C. 
 Beck, Samuel 
 Baldwin, Russell 
 Brown, Thomas H. 
 Bruce, Henry 
 Bubier, John 
 Byrne, Edmund 
 Bird, .lohn D. 
 Benliaui, Timothy G. 
 Brewster, Benjamin 
 Branch, Cyrus A. 
 Bartholomew, Benjamin 
 Barr, James 
 Babbi(lf,'e, John P. 
 BoiigliMn, James 
 Buchaiiau, Franklin 
 Baiiibrid^e, Arthur 
 Boaidlcy, John M. 
 B(jwman, Jo.-ieph 
 Culler. V^illiain 
 Chaille.William H. 
 Caion, Richard, Jr. 
 Cri ss, J(jspph 
 Caldwell, > harles H. 
 Cook, John A. 
 Chamicey, John S. 
 ' ouover, Thoiir.'.s A. 
 Campbell, .Archibald 
 Cranstoii. Robert 
 C'rary, Lodowick 
 Cornwall, Josepli S. 
 CuthbtJt, Lacldan 
 Cocke, Harrison 
 Chillis, Enos 
 (^lrtis, James F. 
 Cambrelins;, John P. 
 Carter, Nathaniel, Jr. 
 •Ccioke, John, .'r. 
 t^onnor, James 
 Cults. J:im' s M. 
 Curtis, Thomas B 
 Cummiiiys, John L. 
 < arpenler, Edward 
 Carpenter, Bcujamin 
 Chaimiiiijs, John M. 
 Carter, Hill 
 
 
 Sept. 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 Jan. 
 
 1812 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 18 
 
 July 
 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 
 22 
 
 Aug. 
 
 
 12 
 
 April 
 
 181S 
 
 17 
 
 May 
 
 
 9 
 
 Nov. 
 
 
 9 
 
 do 
 
 
 9 
 
 do 
 
 
 1 
 
 Feb. 
 
 1814 
 
 16 
 
 April 
 
 
 30 
 
 Nov. 
 
 
 30 
 
 do 
 
 
 30 
 
 do 
 
 
 SO 
 
 do 
 
 
 SO 
 
 do 
 
 
 SO 
 
 do 
 
 
 11 
 
 Jan 
 
 1815 
 
 28 
 
 do 
 
 
 23 
 
 Feb. 
 
 
 7 
 
 Mar'-h 
 
 
 8 
 
 July 
 
 
 '5 
 
 Nov. 
 
 1809 
 
 17 
 
 Dec. 
 
 1810 
 
 9 
 
 June 
 
 1811 
 
 9 
 
 do 
 Sept. 
 
 
 
 Jan. 
 
 1812 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 
 <!o 
 
 
 
 do 
 
 
 '8 
 
 June 
 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 
 28 
 
 Sept. 
 
 
 8 
 
 Oc 
 
 
 10 
 
 July 
 
 1813 
 
 10 
 
 do 
 
 
 9 
 
 Nov. 
 
 
 9 
 
 do 
 
 
NAVAL REGISTER 
 
 321 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 Date* of Com- 
 missions. 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 Cutis, Augustus 
 Cottiiieau, Hercules 
 Cliew, Jolm (orBenj.) 
 Carson, Robeit 
 Conynghain, David 
 Cocliran, Joshua W. 
 Cannon, Joseph S. 
 Cainpl>ell, James 
 Colter, .laniea 
 Cunningham, Robert B. 
 Corlis, Ciiarles 
 Collier, John 
 Cutis, Joseph 
 Coxe, James S. 
 Childs, Charles R. 
 Cocliran, Richard 
 Cambridge, William E. 
 Crowninshield, Jacob 
 Clinton, James H. 
 Doyle, Thomas 
 De Hart, Gosen 
 De Lion, Abraham 
 Dowse, Edward 
 Dayton, T. VV. H. 
 Downing, Samuel VV. 
 Dulany, James VV. 
 De Vaux, Maximilian 
 Dunham, Peleg K. 
 Etevis, Oscar 
 Dale, John Montgomery 
 Dobbin, James H. 
 Dennis, John, Jr. 
 Daily, 'I'liomas W. 
 Derby, Charles P. 
 
 De Saussnre, Daniel S. 
 
 Davis, Owen 
 
 Downing, Mahlon M. 
 
 Dommick, Richard 
 
 Duzenberry, Samuel 
 
 Dangorfield, William 
 
 Dana, Charlef 
 
 De Wolf, Francis L. 
 
 Dodil, George D. 
 
 Davezac, de Castera G. 
 
 Deiany. Hugh 
 
 Dy«on, Henry 
 
 Dodge, Edwin I 
 
 Dornin, Thomas 
 
 Eli, Guy 
 
 Egerton, Richard 
 
 Essex, Edwin 
 
 Evans, John 
 
 Fastbnrn. Joseph 
 
 Elzy, James 
 
 Eskridge, Alexander 
 
 Ellery, Frank 
 
 Eakin, Samuel A. 
 
 Eller> . Charles 
 
 Emm'et, Christopher T. 
 Engle, Frederick 
 Field. Ambrose 
 Farragut, Dnvid G. 
 Forrest, French 
 Fitzhugh, Andro^T 
 
 Noy. 
 
 do 
 
 Feb. 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 1813 
 1S14 
 
 26 do 
 
 30 Nov. 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 6 Dec. 
 
 10 Jan. 
 28 do 
 
 7 Feb. 
 
 6 March 
 
 11 do 
 24 April 
 
 July 
 
 15 Nov. 
 
 17 Dec. 
 
 17 do 
 
 1 Sept. 
 
 1 do 
 
 1 do 
 do 
 
 1815 
 
 1805 
 1809 
 1810 
 
 • 
 
 1811 
 
 1813 
 
 1814 
 
 1 Jan. 1812 
 
 1 Feb. 
 
 18 June , 
 
 13 do 
 
 18 do 
 
 9 Nov. 
 
 9 do 
 
 9 do 
 
 1 Feb. 
 
 8 March 
 
 30 April 
 
 16 July 
 
 30 Nov. 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 1 Jan. 
 
 18 do 
 May 
 
 16 Jan. 
 15 Nov. 
 15 do 
 
 17 Dec. 
 
 June 
 Sep 
 Jan. 
 do 
 
 18 June 
 18 March 
 
 Oct. 
 
 Doc. 
 
 Dec. 
 
 do 
 
 June 
 
 do 
 
 1815 
 
 < 
 
 1809 
 
 1810 
 1811 
 
 1812 
 
 1814 
 
 1809 
 1S;() 
 1811 
 
 Freeman, Edgar 
 Field, Robert 
 h'isiher, John D. 
 Fret-Ion, T. W. 
 Fenimore, Thomas E. 
 Freeman, James M. 
 Follet, Benjamin 
 Goodwin, John D. 
 Gwinn, John A. L, 
 Greenwell, Edward 
 Gibbon, Frederick S. 
 (iaunt, Charles 
 Goodwyn, Peterson 
 Griffin, Allen 
 Gray, Henry 
 Greenlaw, James 
 Goo<lrum James 
 Graham. John II. 
 Goldsborough. Lewis M. 
 Gilmeyer, Jacob 
 Greeves, Thomas 
 Goodwin, Daniel 
 Grimke, Benj. Secundus 
 Green, Willis M. 
 Gerry, Thomas R. 
 Gardner, Walter 
 Gardner, William H. 
 Gaillard, Daniel S. 
 Gedney, Thomas R. 
 Humphreys, Julius 
 Hill, John, Jr. A. L. 
 Hall Warren 
 Heath, Richard 
 Haslett, Andrew 
 Harrison, Thomas P. 
 Hedges, F. E. 
 [1 Innter, Richard 
 iH^irpor, VVilliani J. 
 iHigS^ins. Jesse 
 [Harrison, Benjamin 
 I Hall, William 
 1 Harper, Joseph L. 
 Hunter, Moses 
 Hnnler. I'avid 
 iHoiise. William 
 jHis'id'o'hom, Delozier 
 iHarby, Levi 
 jnanlv, I. C. 
 Hamilton, Edward W. 
 'Hi>dges. James 
 
 HmII, a.s. 
 
 Hidl, Joseph 
 H:iiidy, Thomas B. 
 Hr)» oil, John F. 
 Umitpr, George W. 
 Holhiis, George N. 
 Hiipkio?, John L. 
 H;\rt, Ezokiel B. 
 Hayes Thomas 
 He'.h. John, 
 Homer, William H. 
 Hortrin. Samuel 
 Hunter, Harry D. 
 Harvey, William 
 
 Dales oj 
 
 Com- 
 
 missons. 
 
 9 June 
 
 1811 
 
 I Sept. 
 
 ( 
 
 18 June 
 
 1812 
 
 18 do 
 
 < 
 
 20 Feb. 
 
 1813 
 
 24 May 
 
 1814 
 
 6 Dec. 
 
 < 
 
 16 Jan. 
 
 1809 
 
 18 May 
 
 ( 
 
 9 .1 une 
 
 18il 
 
 9 do 
 
 ( 
 
 1 Sept. 
 
 « 
 
 I Jan. 
 
 1812 
 
 1 do 
 
 < 
 
 1 do 
 
 < 
 
 18 June 
 
 k 
 
 18 do 
 
 € 
 
 18 do 
 
 « 
 
 18 do 
 
 4 
 
 1 Jan. 
 
 1813 
 
 9 Nov. 
 
 ■ 
 
 30 do 
 
 1814 
 
 30 do 
 
 i 
 
 30 do 
 
 * 
 
 6 Dec 
 
 < 
 
 6 do 
 
 < 
 
 6 do 
 
 ( 
 
 1 Feb. 
 
 1815 
 
 4 March « 
 
 16 Jan. 
 
 1809 
 
 6 Feb. 
 
 < 
 
 17 Dec. 
 
 1810 
 
 17 do 
 
 . • 
 
 17 do 
 
 
 9 June 
 
 1811 
 
 9 do 
 
 
 1 Sept. 
 
 
 1 do 
 
 1812 
 
 1 Jan. 
 
 
 1 do 
 
 
 1 do 
 
 
 4 June 
 
 
 18 do 
 
 
 18 do 
 
 
 18 do 
 
 
 18 do 
 
 
 18 do 
 
 
 18 do 
 
 
 18 do 
 
 
 9 Nov. 
 
 1813 
 
 9 do 
 
 
 9 do 
 
 
 28 Jan. 
 
 1814 
 
 1 Feb. 
 
 
 1 do 
 
 
 1 do 
 
 
 2fi do 
 
 
 30 April 
 
 
 16 June 
 
 
 25 do 
 
 
 so Nov. 
 
 
 3ft do 
 
 
 so do 
 
 
 SO do 
 
 41 
 
322 
 
 NAVAL REGISTER. 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 Dates of 'Com- 
 missions. 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 Dates of Com' 
 missions. 
 
 Hunt, John 
 Harris, John L, 
 Harris, Willijtm S. 
 Hobart, George 
 Hoffman, Ogden 
 Howard, William L. 
 Hobbs, Hubbard H. 
 Jones, ( harles 
 Jasper William 
 Johns, Enoch H. 
 Jamesson, William 
 Inmaii, William 
 Jackson, James T. 
 Isaacs, G. W. 
 Jarvis, .losep ' R. 
 Jamesson, Skeffinglon 
 Jones, Richard A. 
 Ingraham, Duncan N. 
 Israel, Israel 
 Jarrett, Frederick 
 Jones, Walter F. 
 Justin, Joshua H. 
 Johnson, Edward S. 
 Jacob.-, Edward 
 Keene, Lewis 
 Kuhn, Adam S. 
 Kelle, John 
 Keasbey, John R. 
 Knight, James D. 
 Keogh, Matthew 
 Lacy, Charles 
 Lineh, Greene 
 Lewis, John I. H. 
 Lecompte Charles 
 Ludlow, James H, 
 Luckett. John M. 
 Lee, William A. 
 Lowe, Enoch 
 Leib, Thomas I. 
 Latimer, Artliur 
 Loveday, John 
 Lecompte, Samuel 
 Lufborongh. Alex. W, 
 Lewis, Wdliam G. 
 Leverett, George H, 
 Long, John C. 
 Langdon, Henry S. Jr. 
 Lee, John H. 
 Lansing, E<lward A. 
 Legare, James E 
 Lovell, M. S. 
 Lord, William R. 
 Lyman, J a me- R 
 Lassalle, Stephen B. 
 Lowndes, Charles 
 Livings-Ion, Richard P. 
 Myers, William 
 Motlev, A. 
 M'Kinney, Wm. E. 
 M'Neir, Thomas 
 Morris, James L. 
 Ma7.y<k. P. R. 
 M'Aligter, John 
 M'Chesney, William 
 
 30 Nov. 
 SO do 
 SO do 
 
 6 Dec. 
 
 31 do 
 10 Jan. 
 
 4 March 
 July 
 
 1 Jan. 
 16 do 
 
 Sept. 
 
 Jan. 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 18 June 
 
 18 do 
 
 18 do 
 
 18 do 
 
 9 Nov. 
 
 8 March 
 11 June 
 30 Nov. 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 I Jan. 
 
 1 Feb. 
 
 1 do 
 
 4 Nov. 
 
 30 do 
 
 6 Dec. 
 
 16 Jan. 
 
 16 do 
 15 May 
 18 do 
 15 Nov. 
 
 17 Dec. 
 
 9 June 
 1 Sept. 
 1 do 
 
 1 Jan. 
 
 1 do 
 
 4 June 
 
 18 do 
 18 do 
 18 do 
 18 do 
 18 do 
 18 do 
 18 do 
 18 do 
 
 9 
 1 
 
 1814 
 
 1815 
 
 i 
 
 1803 
 1808 
 1S09 
 1811 
 1812 
 
 Nov. 
 Feb 
 
 1813 
 1814 
 
 1812 
 1814 
 
 1809 
 
 1810 
 1811 
 
 1812 
 
 1813 
 1814 
 
 16 July, 
 
 Nov. 
 18 March 
 29 do 
 16 Jan 
 16 do 
 
 June 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 Sept. 
 
 do 
 
 1815 
 1809 
 1811 
 
 « 
 ( 
 t 
 
 1811 
 
 M'Caw, 4.ohn 
 (M'Cawley, George 
 j Mitchell, Robert 
 iM'J,itosh,James M 'K. 
 
 Mincliin, Charles W. 
 
 M't luney, V\ illiani 
 'M 'Clean, William 
 
 Mackall, Richard 
 
 Mott, William H. 
 
 M'Neil, Archibald 
 ' Morales, .loseph 
 
 Montgomery, John B. 
 
 Mitchell, David 
 I Mason, James 
 'M'Clintock, Henry 
 iMacliey Daniel H. 
 I Moorehead, Joseph 
 
 M'Rorie, D. W. 
 
 MCanley, Daniel S. 
 
 Moore Sharp D. 
 
 Mahoney, Michael 
 
 Matterson, Joseph 
 
 M'Kean, Wm. W 
 
 M Kenzie, V\ illiam 
 
 M'Intosh, William A. 
 
 Merchand, Nicholas 
 
 Myers, Joseph 
 
 Mercer, Samuel 
 
 Martin, Robert F. 
 
 Nichol.son, James 
 
 Nichols Kobeit, 
 
 Nicholson, James 
 
 Newconib, Walter 
 
 Nixen.Z W. 
 
 Newtim, Henry C. 
 
 Nichol.son, Wni. C. 
 
 .\ewman, Wm. D. 
 
 Nones, J. B 
 
 Nicholson, Wm. B. 
 
 Nelson, Armtslead 
 
 Nicholas John S. 
 
 Olmstead, Edward 
 
 Ogden, Henry 
 
 Oneale, Richard 
 
 Overton, Patrick H. 
 
 Patlon, George 
 
 Page Banjamin 
 
 Perry, James Alex. 
 
 Paulding. Hiram 
 
 Poltenger, William 
 
 Page, lliif^h N. 
 
 Patter Kicliard M. 
 
 Pendergra.^it, Garret 
 
 Petligrew, Thomas 
 
 Prentiss, Nathaniel A. 
 
 Pratt Shiibal 
 
 Piatt, (^harles T. 
 
 Price, Edward 
 
 Phelps Samuel R. 
 
 Prentiss, John E. 
 
 Paine, John H. S. 
 
 Pattern, Thoiuas 
 
 Pallersoii, William 
 
 Pollard, William 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 4 
 
 18 
 
 18 
 
 18 
 
 16 
 
 9 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 8 
 
 30 
 
 .^0 
 
 30 
 
 30 
 
 30 
 
 30 
 
 6 
 
 4 
 
 2 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 I 
 
 18 
 
 18 
 
 18 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 17 
 
 10 
 
 ! 6 
 
 |17 
 
 1 
 
 1 1 
 
 I SO 
 
 15 
 
 17 
 
 9 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 18 
 
 18 
 
 18 
 
 5 
 
 20 
 
 9 
 
 9 
 
 9 
 
 1 
 
 8 
 
 Sept. 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 Jan. 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 J uiie 
 
 do 
 do 
 do 
 
 April 
 
 do 
 
 Feb. 
 
 do 
 
 July 
 
 Nov. 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 Dec. 
 
 March 
 
 May 
 
 Dec. 
 
 Sept. 
 
 Jan. 
 
 do 
 
 June 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 Feb 
 
 do 
 
 March 
 
 Nov. 
 
 June, 
 
 Dec. 
 
 Sept 
 
 Jan. 
 
 Nov. 
 
 Nov. 
 
 Dec. 
 
 June 
 
 Se[)l. 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 Jan. 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 June 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 April 
 
 May 
 
 Nov. 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 Feb. 
 
 March 
 
 1811 
 
 1812 
 
 1813 
 
 C 
 
 1814 
 
 1815 
 
 ( 
 
 1809 
 1811 
 1812 
 
 1814 
 
 1815 
 1810 
 1811 
 1812 
 1814 
 1809 
 ISIO 
 1811 
 
 1812 
 
 1818 
 
 IS14 
 
NAVAL REGISTF») 
 
 323 
 
 Namet and Rank. 
 
 Dales of Com- 
 missions. 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 Dates of Com- 
 missons. 
 
 Pelot, Joliii F. 
 Piiikliam, Alex. B. 
 Pitickiiey, Ricli;ird S. 
 Porter, Diivid H. 
 Pickte, Richard 
 Postell, Edward 
 Palmer, Ji>lin W. 
 Potter, Wdliain H. 
 P.)tler, R(>l)ert 
 Pearson, Frederick 
 Peniiock, William H. 
 Parker, George 
 Reiisliaw, Samuel 
 Roney, Jainea 
 Roberts, L. Q C. 
 Rogers, Jaineg 
 R.ndolpii, R. B. 
 Ritchie, John T. 
 Rainsav, William W. 
 Ray, James W. II. 
 Roberts, James 
 ^ Randolph, William B. 
 Ridgeway, Ebenezer 
 Russel, Edmund M. 
 Russel, Charles C. 
 Randall, Henry 
 Rogers, Samuel 
 Rodgers William T. 
 
 Ric e,VV 'illiam 
 
 Riicnie, Ri^jeri 
 Rutter, Solomon 
 Ross, Thomas 
 Rogers, Clement 
 Randolph, Victor M. 
 Rudd, John 
 Roane, William 
 Rutgers, Herman 
 Rittenhouse, W. W. 
 Rutledge, Edward 
 Reed, John 
 Rousseau, John B. 
 Rand, Isaac H. 
 Randi>lpli, Burwell S 
 Smith, Edward 
 Stewart, James 
 Saunders, John 
 Stewart, Richard 
 Smoot, Joseph 
 Suggette, Thomas 
 Smith, Charles 
 Stevens, Clement 
 Springer, ( harles L. 
 Spiknall, Joseph 
 Swartwout, Augu!<tU8 
 Searcy, Robert 
 S nelson, Robert L. 
 Steele, William 
 Simoiids, L. I. 
 Sawyer, liorace B. 
 Street, Miles 
 Strihbling, Cornelius 
 Sandn, Joshua R. 
 Stailings, Otho 
 Scott, Beverly R. 
 
 10 June, 
 
 17 do 
 
 3 Aug 
 
 4 do 
 
 1814 
 
 30 Nov. 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 6 Dec. 
 
 March 
 
 March 
 
 20 April 
 
 6 June 
 
 4 July 
 
 4 July. 
 
 16 Jan. 
 15 Nov. 
 15 Aug. 
 
 17 Dec. 
 Sept. 
 do 
 do 
 Jan. 
 do 
 
 18 June 
 18 do 
 18 do 
 
 9 Nov. 
 9 do 
 9 do 
 
 1815 
 
 1805 
 1807 
 1809 
 
 C 
 
 1810 
 
 1812 
 
 1813 
 
 30 
 
 Nov. 
 
 30 
 
 do 
 
 30 
 
 do 
 
 30 
 
 do 
 
 30 
 
 do 
 
 30 
 
 do 
 
 30 
 
 do 
 
 25 
 
 Jan. 
 
 2 
 
 Feb. 
 
 16 
 
 Jan. 
 
 15 
 
 Nov. 
 
 15 
 
 do 
 
 15 
 
 do 
 
 1 
 
 Dec. 
 
 1 
 
 do 
 
 17 
 
 do 
 
 9 
 
 June 
 
 1 
 
 Sept. 
 
 1 
 
 Jan. 
 
 1 
 
 do 
 
 1 
 
 do 
 
 1 
 
 do 
 
 1 
 
 do 
 
 1 
 
 do 
 
 1 
 
 do 
 
 1 
 
 do 
 
 18 
 
 June 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 I "'t'elJ. 
 26 do 
 17 March 
 16 April 
 11 June 
 
 im 
 
 Sweeney, Hugh S. 
 Sullivan, John M 
 Shute John B. 
 S kiddy, Wt!l >"n 
 Spaulding, Ja '8 
 Swartwout, J \ n 
 Stewart. Arcl ■ ild M. 
 Stout, Matthe-. «V. 
 Slexenson, Jo! . 
 Stewart, U; vii <. 
 Summers, R. ^ 
 Shields, Wdlii i 
 .Smith, Wi'.ai P. 
 Sliulirick, Irvi • 
 Sleariis, Jo-tiu B. 
 Storer, Fret ^^r :k 
 
 •^trong, Pett ■ . 
 
 Slialer, Egb rt 
 
 Sherburne, ior», \V. 
 
 Street, Mi let 
 
 Shaw, Roger C. 
 
 Scott, Merit 
 
 Soinerville, G. W. 
 
 Stockton, Horatio 
 
 Sanderson, Francis 
 
 Smith, Jesse 
 
 Story, Frederick W. C. 
 
 Tippet, Thomas A. 
 
 Ten Eick, Abraham 
 
 18 June 
 
 1 iMaicli 
 
 16 April 
 
 9 May 
 
 9 Nov. 
 
 9 do 
 
 9 do 
 
 1812 
 
 1813 
 
 12 do 
 
 1815 
 
 S 
 
 1809 
 18 
 
 1810 
 1811 
 
 < 
 
 1812 
 
 Templei Williain ^~~~ 
 
 I'itus, Ira 
 Taylor, James B. 
 Tyier, Tobias 
 Tlioinpsoii, Joseph 
 Taylor, Williain 
 Tatnall, Josiah 
 Toscan, Fi ank 
 Tilton, Neheiniah 
 Tardy, Henry 
 Til wing, Samuel 
 Toscan, Messidor 
 Townseiid, John S. 
 
 Fultle, John P. 
 
 Turner, Henry E. 
 
 I'oole, John 
 
 Tompkins, John 
 
 Thorniley, Wm. F. 
 
 Tilden, Thomas B. 
 
 Ta I Image, Benj. Jr. 
 
 Taylor, Wm G. B. 
 
 Vanzandt, Ira 
 
 V'jorheps, Ralph 
 
 Vosliell, James 
 
 Varnum, Frederick 
 
 Vallette, James Kirk 
 
 Washingion, Sain'l W. 
 
 Wayne, William C. 
 
 Wish, John 
 
 Wyman, Thomas W. 
 
 Weaver. Win. A. 
 
 Walker, Daniel R. 
 
 Williams, James 
 
 WilJiainsou J. D. 
 
 WilliaaiBon^ Cli ts. L. 
 
 Feb. 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 !7 March 
 12 May 
 
 28 Sept. 
 
 30 Nov. 
 
 oO do 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 24 Jan. 
 
 3 Feb. 
 
 11 March 
 
 11 do 
 
 9 June 
 Sept 
 
 T 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 Jan. 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 18 June 
 9 Nov. 
 9 do 
 14 May 
 1 Sept 
 18 Nov. 
 30 do 
 30 do 
 30 do 
 30 do 
 30 do 
 
 Jan 
 
 do 
 
 13 Feb. 
 16 Jan. 
 11 Sept. 
 
 1 Jan. 
 
 '18 June 
 
 1 do 
 
 16 Nov. 
 
 17 Dec. 
 17 do 
 17 do 
 
 14 Feb. 
 9 June 
 1 Sept. 
 1 do 
 
 1 do 
 
 1S14 
 
 1816 
 
 1811 
 
 18 2 
 
 1812 
 
 1813 
 1814 
 
 1815 
 
 1809 
 1811 
 18 2 
 
 1815 
 
 1809 
 1810 
 
 1811 
 
324> 
 
 /iAVAL REGISTER. 
 
 JVamM and Rank, 
 
 Date* of Com 
 miisiont. 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 Dates of Com- 
 
 I missions. 
 
 Wall, Albert G, 
 Wliiilock, Cplirnim 
 Wilson, Strphen B. 
 Wasliiagt.,11, VV. S. I. 
 Whetinore, Win. C. 
 Wliilliiiglon, Clement 
 VVolbfit, Frederick 
 Walls, Edward 
 Wlii[)ple, I'ardon M 
 While, Joshua, 
 Warner, Henry R. 
 Ward, Henry 
 Wheatoii, Setli 
 White, James 
 Walker. William 
 Wood, Oliver W. 
 Wdson, '■ esar R. 
 Wright. Edward 
 Watkin.s Erasmus 
 Yates Charles 
 Young, John 
 
 SAILING MASTERS. 
 
 Arundell, Robert 
 Almy,Tlioma!> C. 
 Adams, James H. 
 Adams, Samuel VV. 
 Arnold, John 
 Brooks, Samuel 
 Barry, Edward 
 Brown, Eli 
 Bloodgood, Ahraliara 
 Bennet, Cornelius 
 Briggs, Samnel R. 
 Biker, Nicholas 
 Brum, I'liilip 
 Basset, J iine.i 
 Bowie, Heiu-y 
 Carr, James E. 
 Catalano, Salvadore 
 Chambers, Thomas 
 Carter, John K. 
 Coic, William 
 Cox, Richard J. 
 Coo|)er, Jas. B. A. L. 
 Caldwf-ll, W. M. A. L. 
 Clough John 
 Chamberl.iii), S. P. 
 Collins, U illram 
 Cansler, Wdliani 
 Croft, Ge.iijre 
 Dudley, 1. 1,. ton 
 Dealy, Ric-i-nrtt 
 Doxey, Biscoe 
 Davis, (ieorge 
 Dove, Maimnduke 
 Dobbins, Daniel 
 Dill, J. U. 
 Dod^e, Rillv 
 De la R.i.he, Geo. F. 
 Dorgan, Andrew 
 Downes. Shnbal 
 Drew, John 
 
 1 Jan. 1812 
 
 1 do 
 
 1 do 
 
 5 Feb. 
 
 18 June 
 
 18 do 
 
 18 do 
 
 IS do 
 
 18 do 
 
 18 do 
 
 28 do 
 
 1 Oct. 
 
 4 March 1814 
 
 20 Aug. 
 
 .SO Nov 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 30 do 
 
 6 June 
 
 1 Jan. 
 
 1 do 
 
 18 
 18 
 
 20 May 1812 
 26 June ' 
 10 July 
 
 3 do 1813 
 
 3 do 
 
 17 Oct. 1S03 
 
 28 Feb. 
 
 25 April 1812 
 3.5 June ' 
 
 9 Dec. 
 
 3 July 1813 
 
 3 do 
 
 13 Feb. 1813 
 
 18 April 1314 
 Act'g. S. master 
 
 4 Aug. 1807 
 9 do 1809 
 
 24 Feb. 1812 
 9 IMay 
 
 26 do 
 23 June ' 
 
 9 July 
 
 21 March 1S13 
 3 July ' 
 8 Jan. 1814 
 3 Feb. 
 
 29 March « 
 17 Aug. • 
 
 25 Jan. 1809 
 
 14 Feb. 1811 
 2t June 1812 
 2i) July 
 
 29 Au^r. 
 
 16 Sept. 
 
 10 April 1813 
 
 3 July 
 
 3 Aug. « 
 
 11 
 
 Sept. 
 
 12 do 
 I 6 Dec. 1814 
 
 Dunstou. Wdliam 
 Elli^jou, Francis H. 
 Ferris, Jonathan D 
 Ford, Augustus 
 Fisk, Spuire 
 Fieelwood, William 
 Fe.'-guson, James 
 Gerry, Sanmel R. 
 Green, William 
 (•odtVey, Thomas 
 Heibert, Joshua 
 Halburd, John 
 Hultori, John S. 
 riarneisley, Thomas 
 Henry, Henry A. L. 
 I lallowell, George 
 Hixou, Sanmel C. 
 Hill. Henry D. 
 Haller, Isaac 
 Hawkaworth, G. T. 
 Heanie, Isaac T. 
 Joms, Edward 
 Jennings, Nathaniel 
 I ones, Daniel 
 Jeukms, John D. 
 Johnston, Robert 
 .lohn.son, William 
 Kingston, Simon 
 Knox, RolHrl 
 Kemper, S) Ivester 
 Kills, John 
 Levy, Uriah 
 Loom is, .luirus 
 Lncketi, Alexander 
 {.owe, Vincent 
 Lindse^', Joseph 
 l.ee, William 
 Mooney, John 
 Mull, Jacob 
 Mork, .lames A . \.. 
 M'Carty, William D. 
 Moliere, Henry 
 Moliere, Lucas 
 M'C.M.nell, Wdliam 
 Mix, Elijah 
 Mullaby. Francis 
 Mullord, Richard 
 MHlbone, William F. 
 M'Lnchlin, FhHip 
 .Meyers, Shiben 
 Mifler, William 
 I M'Night, William 
 iMaynadier, Daniel 
 iNantz, John 
 Nicholson, William 
 NiMlhrop, Job 
 i\ ichols, Thomas 
 0» iugs, John C, 
 (^S','ood, Joseph 
 Phill.ps. David 
 I'renliss, Jal)ez 
 Cage, Lewis B. 
 I'oMs, James B. 
 Payne, Thomas 
 
 3 
 
 April 
 
 1815 
 
 3 
 
 July 
 
 1813 
 
 28 
 
 Feb. 
 
 1809 
 
 28 
 
 March 
 
 1810 
 
 7 
 
 May 
 
 1812 
 
 7 
 
 do 
 
 < 
 
 27 
 
 do 
 
 1814 
 
 17 
 
 Jan. 
 
 1809 
 
 26 
 
 June 
 
 1812 
 
 18 
 
 April 
 
 is 15 
 
 4 
 
 Aug. 
 
 1807 
 
 11 
 
 Feb 
 
 1S09 
 
 24 
 
 do 
 
 i 
 
 14 
 
 Jan. 
 
 IS; 2 
 
 1 
 
 July 
 
 ( 
 
 5 
 
 Dec. 
 
 1812 
 
 30 
 
 April 
 
 1814 
 
 16 
 
 June 
 
 « 
 
 7 
 
 July 
 
 ( 
 
 Act 
 
 g. S. master 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 26 
 
 Jan. 
 
 1809 
 
 30 
 
 Maich 
 
 1812 
 
 8 
 
 May 
 
 I 
 
 26 
 
 do 
 
 ( 
 
 10 
 
 do 
 
 1813 
 
 6 
 
 June 
 
 1815 
 
 29 
 
 June 
 
 1812 
 
 20 
 
 July 
 
 ( 
 
 30 
 
 Oct. 
 
 i 
 
 15 
 
 May 
 
 1813 
 
 21 
 
 Oct. 
 
 1812 
 
 11 
 
 Nov. 
 
 ( 
 
 15 
 
 Dec. 
 
 ( 
 
 20 
 
 March 
 
 1813 
 
 17 
 
 do 
 
 1814 
 
 30 
 
 April 
 
 1815 
 
 23 
 
 Jan . 
 
 1^09 
 
 13 
 
 F.b, 
 
 > 
 
 14 
 
 Inly 
 
 1812 
 
 18 
 
 do 
 
 ( 
 
 1 
 
 Aug 
 
 ( 
 
 1 
 
 do 
 
 
 2 
 
 Nov. 
 
 « 
 
 12 
 3 
 
 .Uine 
 Julv 
 
 1813 
 
 3 
 
 ,1..' 
 
 ( 
 
 4 
 
 April 
 
 1814 
 
 28 
 
 .lulv 
 
 ' 
 
 18 
 
 Nov. 
 
 ' 
 
 28 
 
 Jan. 
 
 1MI5 
 
 Aci 
 
 g S. m 
 
 aster. 
 
 .1 
 
 ) 
 
 do 
 
 7 
 
 July 
 
 1812 
 
 14 
 
 Aug. 
 
 1813 
 
 22 
 
 J 
 
 181.J 
 
 Act' 
 
 g. S. master. 
 
 15 
 
 Sept. 
 
 I80ti 
 
 3 
 
 July 
 
 1813 
 
 1 
 
 Jan. 
 
 1801 
 
 4 
 
 Feb. 
 
 f-09 
 
 9 
 
 Marh 
 
 
 24 
 
 July 
 
 1'12 
 
 10 
 
 Oct. 
 
 4 
 
NAVAL REGISTER. 
 
 325 
 
 Tfamtt and Rank. 
 
 Dates of Com- 
 missions. 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 Dates of Com- 
 missons. 
 
 Polk, William W. 
 Rogers, James 
 Robins, William M. 
 Roiiipy, Edward 
 Riiiker, Samuel 
 Souiitag, George S. 
 Sleveiw, Joseph 
 Smith, Horace 
 bmitli, William P. 
 Story, Tiioiiias W. 
 Sheed, U illiam W. 
 Stoodley Nallianiel 
 8telKvag(m, U. S. 
 Shoemaker, David, Jr. 
 Spilman, James 
 Trant, James 
 Taylor, James 
 Taylor, Joseph 
 Topham, Philip M. 
 
 18 July 
 
 6 April 
 
 18 Nov. 
 3^ Sept. 
 
 4 Aug. 
 3 May 
 
 17 July 
 
 26 Dec. 
 
 27 April 
 
 5 May 
 14 Aug. 
 )4 May 
 
 19 Oct. 
 3 Feb 
 
 10 Apr 
 
 16 May 
 
 14 July 
 
 27 do 
 
 1814 
 1810 
 1812 
 
 1813 
 1807 
 1812 
 
 1813 
 
 1814 
 
 1815 
 1799 
 1812 
 
 4 
 
 1813 
 
 Tew, Henry 
 Tateni, Robert S. 
 Terry, James 
 Ulricli, George 
 Van Voorliis, Rob't B. 
 Vaughan, William 
 Veriiey, Henry 
 Williamson, James L. 
 Walts, Thomas 
 W ilkinson, Henry 
 Wilson, George M. 
 Waldo, Charles F. 
 \\ arner, John 
 Wright, James B. 
 While, John 
 Willision, Joseph 
 Warren, Nahum 
 Worth ington, Heiiry 
 Young, Edward L. 
 
 28 March 
 
 21 July 
 20 April 
 
 4 Dec. 
 
 28 Feb. 
 
 22 Ans. 
 
 Dec. 
 
 Aug. 
 
 Feb. 
 
 Jan. 
 
 24 July 
 
 10 March 
 
 15 Sept. 
 
 19 Nov. 
 
 2 Dec. 
 
 26 Nov. 
 
 6 Feb. 
 
 2 May 
 
 9 May 
 
 1814 
 
 < 
 
 1815 
 
 18u9 
 
 1812 
 
 1807 
 1809 
 1812 
 
 1813 
 
 1814 
 1815 
 
 1812 
 
 MARINE CORPS. 
 
 Names and Rank. 
 
 Dates of Com- 
 missions. 
 
 Names and Rank, 
 
 Dates of Com- 
 missions, 
 
 LT. COL. COMMANDANT. 
 
 Franklin Wharton 
 
 MAJORS. 
 
 Daniel Carmich 
 John Hall 
 
 CAPTAINS. 
 
 Anthony Gale 
 
 Robert Greenleaf 
 Archibald HandersoD 
 
 Richard Smith 
 
 Robert Wainwright 
 Wm. Anderson No 1 
 Tho's R. Swift No 2 
 
 Samuel Miller No 3 
 
 John Crabb No 4 
 
 Henry H . Ford No 5 
 John M. Gamble No 6 
 Charles S. Haana No 7 
 
 Alexander Sevier No 8 
 
 Alfred Grayson Vo 9 
 
 Wiliam Strong No 10 
 
 James Heath No 1 1 
 
 Samuel B.icon No 12 
 
 n. B. BreikenridgeNo 1 
 William Hall No 2 
 
 F. W. Sterne No 3 
 
 7 March 1804 
 
 7 March 1809 
 
 8 June 1814 
 
 I 24 April 1804 
 ( Brev. Major 
 19 Jan 1811 
 1 April « 
 
 < 13 Mar. 1812 
 \ Brev Major 
 
 29 Sept « 
 
 18 June 1814 
 18 do 
 
 n8 do 
 
 \ Brev. Major 
 
 < 18 do 
 
 I and Paym'r 
 IS do • 
 
 18 do ' 
 
 18 do ' 
 
 C 18 do « 
 \ Brev. Major 
 
 < IS do 
 
 \ & Qr. Master 
 
 18 do 
 
 do « 
 
 do ' 
 
 Dec. • 
 do • 
 
 do ♦ 
 
 1st. LIEOTENANT.'. 
 
 F. B. D Bellevite No 1 
 J. R. Montegul No 2 
 
 18 
 18 
 10 
 10 
 10 
 
 June 
 do 
 
 1815 
 
 P. B. D. Grandpre No 3 
 
 Lyman Kellogg No 5 
 
 S..mM E. Watson No 6 
 
 VV. 1.. Brownlow No 7 
 
 Leon'd J.Boone No 8 
 
 Tho's W. Legge No 9 
 
 IW. II. Freeman No 10 
 
 Jos. L. Kuhne No 11 
 
 [Henry Olcott No 12 
 
 IC. M Broome No 13 
 
 ]B. Richardson No 15 
 
 ;F. B White No 16 
 
 William Nicoll No 17 
 
 IWm. L. Boyd No 18 
 
 Charles Lord No 19 
 
 ;Levi Twiggs No 20 
 
 Edmund Brooke No 21 
 
 John Harris No 22 
 Samuel B. Johnson 
 
 2nd liedtenants. 
 
 Penry .Stephens No 1 
 
 Tho.s. A. Linton No 2 
 
 Riclid Auchmuty No 3 
 
 Joseph Bo^^que No 4 
 
 James Edelen No 5 
 
 Christopher Ford No 6 
 
 James J. Mills No 7 
 
 Francis A. Bond No 8 
 
 Park. G. Howie No 9 
 
 Geo. B English No 10 
 
 H. W. Kennedy No 11 
 
 K. D. Green No 12 
 
 S. Duvall No 13 
 
 Chas Snowden No 14 
 
 f. G. S ngeltary No 15 
 
 Wm. F.Swift No 16 
 Gillies Thompson 
 Edward S Nowell 
 
 IS 
 18 
 18 
 18 
 18 
 18 
 18 
 18 
 13 
 18 
 18 
 18 
 18 
 18 
 18 
 18 
 18 
 18 
 16 
 
 June 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 July 
 
 2S Feb. 
 28 do 
 28 do 
 28 do 
 I March 
 18 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 
 do 
 12 April 
 9 May 
 
 1816 
 
 1810 
 
326 
 
 NAVAL REGISTER. 
 
 LIST OF THE AMERICAN NAVY. 
 
 a 
 
 Xamei of VetteU. 
 
 Commandere. 
 
 S 
 
 Namee of Vessel*. 
 
 Commanders. 
 
 to 
 
 
 
 CS 
 
 
 
 ' 
 
 
 Com. Bain- ^ 
 
 12 
 
 .Spark 
 
 F. Gamble 
 
 74 
 
 Independence 
 
 aridge, Capt. > 
 
 11 
 
 i^pitfire 
 
 A. J. Dallas 
 
 
 
 Crane J 
 
 10 
 
 Torch 
 
 W Chauncey 
 
 74 
 
 Washington 
 
 Cap. I Chauncey 
 
 14 
 
 Nonsuch 
 
 Trant 
 
 74 
 
 Franklin 
 
 Lieu. Morgan 
 
 17 
 
 Ticonderoga 
 
 
 
 
 first officer since 
 
 10 
 
 Lady Prevost, LB. 
 
 
 
 
 the death of 
 
 9 
 
 Prometheus 
 
 A. S. Wadsworth 
 
 
 
 Capt. Smith 
 
 9 
 
 Tom Bowline 
 
 Hoffman 
 
 74 
 
 New-Orleans 
 
 
 9 
 
 Alligator 
 
 
 74 
 
 Chippewa 
 
 
 7 
 
 Roanoke 
 
 • 
 
 "44 
 
 Guerriere, flagship 
 
 Com.S. Denature > 
 Dapt. Lewis $ 
 
 10 
 
 Hunter, late British 
 
 
 
 
 7 
 
 Firebrand 
 
 
 44 
 
 United States 
 
 J. Shaw 
 
 7 
 
 Surprise 
 
 
 44 
 
 Coni'titution 
 
 
 5 
 
 Hornet 
 
 
 44 
 
 Java 
 
 O, H. Perry 
 
 6 
 
 Ghent 
 
 
 44 
 
 Plattsburgh 
 
 
 3 
 
 Caledonia, late B. 
 
 
 44 
 
 Superior 
 
 
 6 
 
 Lynx 
 
 
 36 
 
 Constellation 
 
 C. Gordon 
 
 3 
 
 De.-^patch 
 
 
 36 
 
 Congress 
 
 C. Morris 
 
 3 
 
 Asp 
 
 
 86 
 
 Macedonian, latt B. 
 
 J. Jones 
 
 3 
 
 Porcupine 
 
 
 32 
 
 Mohawk 
 
 
 2 
 
 Gov. Tompkins 
 
 
 32 
 
 Coiifiance, late J5- 
 
 
 8 
 
 Conquest 
 
 
 28 
 
 Cyane do 
 
 
 1 
 
 Ranger 
 
 
 24 
 
 Saratoga 
 
 
 3 
 
 Lady of the Lake 
 
 
 24 
 
 Jolin Adams 
 
 E. Trenchard 
 
 1 
 
 Ontario 
 
 
 24 
 
 General Pike 
 
 
 
 Ravan 
 
 
 20 
 
 Madison 
 
 
 __ 
 
 Asp, 
 
 
 20 
 
 Alert, late BritUh 
 
 W. Stewart 
 
 3 
 
 Pert 
 
 
 18 
 
 Hornet* 
 
 J. Riddle 
 
 4 
 
 Fair America 
 
 
 18 
 
 Wasp* 
 
 J. Blakeley 
 
 1 
 
 Amelia 
 
 
 18 
 
 Peacock 
 
 L. VVarrenton 
 
 11 
 
 Finch, lute Britiah 
 
 
 18 
 
 Ontario 
 
 J. D. Elliott 
 
 11 
 
 Chubb, do 
 
 
 18 
 
 Erie 
 
 C. Ridgeley 
 
 7 
 
 Preble 
 
 
 18 
 
 lx)uis!ana 
 
 
 6 
 
 Montgomery 
 
 
 18 
 
 N iagara 
 
 
 5 
 
 Camel 
 
 
 18 
 
 Detroit, late BritUh 
 
 
 5 
 
 Buffalo 
 
 
 18 
 
 Lawrence 
 
 
 
 
 Tickler 
 
 
 18 
 
 Eagle 
 
 
 12 
 
 President 
 
 
 18 
 
 Jefferson 
 
 
 2 
 
 Galley Centipede 
 
 
 18 
 
 Jones 
 
 
 2 
 
 Nettle 
 
 
 18 
 
 Epenier,* lati B. 
 
 J. T. Shubrick 
 
 2 
 
 Viper 
 
 
 16 
 
 Chippewa 
 
 G. C. Read 
 
 2 
 
 Borer 
 
 
 16 
 
 Saranac 
 
 J. Elton 
 
 2 
 
 Allen 
 
 
 16 
 
 Boxer 
 
 J. Porter 
 
 2 
 
 Burrows 
 
 
 16 
 
 Linnet, late British 
 
 
 1 
 
 Alwyn 
 
 
 16 
 
 Troup 
 
 
 1 
 
 Ballard 
 
 
 16 
 
 Sylph 
 
 
 1 
 
 Ludlow 
 
 
 16 
 
 Qii. Charlotte, /. B. 
 
 
 1 
 
 Wilmer 
 
 
 14 
 
 Eiilerprize 
 
 L. Kearney 
 
 
 Ketch Spitfire 
 
 
 14 
 
 • )neida 
 
 
 
 Vesuvius 
 
 
 12 
 
 Fleainbeau 
 
 J. B. Nicholson 
 
 
 VengeanM 
 
 
 \2 
 
 Firettv 
 
 G.W. Rogeis 
 
 
INDEX. 
 
 Adamn, cniise of 
 
 escape of 
 
 loss of 
 
 Allen, funeral of 
 Alligulor 
 
 Asp, los-s o( 
 Aigiis and Pelican 
 
 escnpe of 
 
 Algiers, vv.ii with 
 
 Burrows, I'liiu'ral of 
 
 BIyllie do 
 
 Bainbridge, private letter of 
 
 Barney 
 
 Barrulaira, piraies of 
 
 Chaniplain, Lake, victory of 
 
 Caroline. I088 of 
 Challenge 10 Uecalur 
 
 to t apt. Green 
 
 to Capt Lawrence 
 
 Chesapeake an<t Siiannr)n 
 Constitution and Uuerriere 
 
 and Jiiva 
 
 and ( yane and Levant 
 
 escape of 
 
 cruise of ' 
 
 Craiiey Island 
 Eagle 
 
 capture of 
 
 Enterprise and Boxer 
 Erie, Lake 
 
 battle of 
 
 Essex and Alert 
 
 loss of 
 
 Ferret, loss of 
 F.'otilla, Delaware Baj 
 
 Lake Borgne 
 
 Com. Barney 
 
 Fort George, capture of 
 Frolic, loss of 
 Gun-boats, attack 00 
 Gardner's Island 
 
 243 
 
 243 
 
 248 
 
 72 
 
 245 
 
 226 
 
 69 
 
 217 
 
 297 
 
 83 
 
 83 
 
 2 9 
 
 2451 
 
 252: 
 
 145 
 
 261 i 
 
 255! 
 
 236 
 
 37 
 
 66 
 
 44 
 
 9i 
 281 
 
 174 j 
 3i 
 240 
 227 
 228 
 229 
 
 77 
 259 
 
 85 
 211 
 
 97 
 238 
 232 
 253 
 245 
 267 
 243 
 224 
 232 
 
 Huron, Lake 
 
 •2.57 
 
 Hiiinilton and Scourge 
 
 269 
 
 and Confiance 
 
 273 
 
 Hall, death of 
 
 240 
 
 Hiirneland Bonne Citoyenne 
 
 37 
 
 and Peacock 
 
 38 
 
 and Penguin 
 
 1S6 
 
 
 192 
 
 
 Lawrence, funeral of 
 
 48 
 
 Lewes, commodore 
 
 244 
 
 Lottery, Schooner 
 
 220 
 
 Mobile 
 
 251 
 
 Nautilus, loss of 
 
 9—210 
 
 Na\y in 1812 
 
 315 
 
 in 1 81,5 
 
 
 IVaval Register 
 
 317 
 
 Non Sucli, sclioonei 
 
 245 
 
 Ontario, Lake 
 
 262 
 
 Oswego, attack on 
 
 274 
 
 Peacock and Epervier 
 
 128 
 
 cruise of 
 
 257 
 
 President and Belvidera 
 
 201 
 
 loss of 
 
 153 
 
 Pilipague attack on, repulse at 
 
 2*42 
 
 Rattlesnake and Enterprise 
 
 240 
 
 loss of 
 
 246 
 
 Rodgers' cruise 
 
 234—239 
 
 Sackett's harbor, attack on 
 
 268 
 
 Sandy Creek, capture of gun-boat 
 
 a 275 
 
 Swallow, capture of 
 
 216 
 
 Surveyor, revenue cutter 
 
 293 
 
 Syren, loss of 
 
 250 
 
 Testimonies of respect 
 
 280 
 
 Torpedo 
 
 231 
 
 United States and Mncedoniaii 
 
 23 
 
 Viper, loss of 
 
 227 
 
 Vixen, do 
 
 215 
 
 Washington city 
 
 246 
 
 Wasp and Frolic 
 
 16-214 
 
 and Reindeei 
 
 131 
 
 and Avon 
 
 140 
 
 York, capture of 
 
 265