|
M 0124
Note: Only those rolls covering periods when CONSTITUTION was in squadron service have been researched.
Roll 1 (January 3 ‑ December 22,
1801)
From
Paul Revere,
Is in the process of getting a mill
for rolling copper sheets and hopes to be able to forward a sample by
"June next." Has already
delivered "near 60,000#" of spikes and bolts [for 74s to be built at
From
Lieutenant Edward H. Jones, USS SCAMMEL, 12 Feb 1801:
Reports Lieutenant Edward Brock
suspended from duty for disobedience and expressions unbecoming an officer,
and, on the advice of Commodore Talbot, is transferring Brock under arrest to
CONSTITUTION pending the Commodore's "inquest."
From
Paul Revere,
In the absence of a reply, repeats the
gist of his 17 Jan letter.
From
Paul Revere,
Requests delivery of a $10,000 loan
offered him at beginning of the year to offset cost of setting up a copper
rolling mill.
From
Paul Revere,
Acknowledges receipt of 29 Apr letter
in which SecNav says he "knows of no Law which authorizes [my] department
to lend Money of the erection [sic] of Copper Works."
From
Chaplain William Austin,
Served as chaplain in CONSTITUTION six
months under Captain Nicholson and twelve under Captain Talbot. Says charges of intemperance against
Nicholson are totally without merit.
From
Paul Revere,
Has erected a copper rolling mill and
is about to send a sample to
Roll 2 (January 12, 1802 ‑ November
20, 1804) [sic]
From
Tristram Barnard, Thomas Lamb, and Nathaniel Thayer,
Have inspected copper sheathing by
Paul Revere and found it "of a good quality" and consider it suitable
for the 74s if manufactured in 30‑ and 34‑oz. weights.
From
Navy Agent Samuel Brown,
Although he previously had reported
that CONSTITUTION would be completed by 1 Apr, it now appears that it will not
be before the middle of the month.
From
Cook John Lewis, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 May 1802:
Reports Captain Nicholson is willing
to discharge him, but not pay him because of fouled up paperwork. Requests relief.
From
Paul Revere,
Reports he has rolled enough copper to
cover the $10,000 loan. The contract is
to deliver 20,000# of cold rolled copper sheets four feet long and fourteen
inches wide to weight 34 ounces per square foot. Inexperience has resulted has resulted in
some sheets only 13 1/4, 13 1/2, and 13 3/4 inches wide. These, he feels, could be used without
detriment on those parts of the ship where the sheets would have to be trimmed,
anyway. The inspectors recommended that
1/4 of the contract be in 30‑oz. copper, which he agrees to.
From
Has been apprised on CONSTITUTION's
imminent placement in ordinary and, presuming he will be retained in service,
proposes that he be stationed in
From
Captain Samuel Nicholson,
Turned over command of CONSTITUTION to
Sailing Master Nathaniel Haraden on 30 Jun, furloughing the Surgeon, Purser,
and eight midshipmen. The ship was moved
to an anchorage within 200 yards of the navy yard shore in 5‑7 fathoms of
water. Twelve seamen for the ship
"will sign ...this week."
There is enough material left from the ship's repair to build a 20‑ton
"anchor boat," if authorized, at no further expense than labor.
From
Paul Revere,
Reserved 6000 ft2 of sheet
copper production for Massachusetts State House dome. Have turned over to [Navy Storekeeper] Caleb
Gibbs 84,718# of spikes and bolts for one 74.
Has completed about 40,000# of same for the second, and has about
69,000# of raw copper ore remaining with which to complete the order.
From
Paul Revere,
Has had 20,000# of copper sheet in
hand since December. Please appoint
inspectors and designate a delivery point.
Has nearly completed the bolts and spikes for the second 74; requests
delivery instructions. Still has copper
left; what to do with it?
From
Captain Edward Preble, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Sep 1803:
Reports that the reason for withdrawing
Midshipman Thomas Baldwin's warrant was that he had shoplifted a sword knot
from a shop at
From
Paul Revere,
Reports forwarding a sample of
"soft finished" copper. Has
delivered 64,305# of spikes and bolts to Caleb Gibbs, and has 12,000# of sheets
ready to deliver. Navy Agent Brown has
directed that the remainder of the raw copper held by
From
Paul Revere,
Has not received any payment on the
copper contract, and is now in debt $14,000 to get necessary copper ore. Says $15,000 is due him. Is experiencing cash flow
"distress."
From
Paul Revere,
Now "really distressed" for
money.
Roll 3 (March 1‑26, 1805)
From
Navy Agent Samuel Brown,
Reports he has returned to the
From
Navy Agent George Harrison,
Has had an interview with the
engraver, Reich, "certainly the first engraver in
From
Navy Agent George Harrison,
Commodore Preble has taken his profile
taken by Mr. R. Peale.
Roll 4 (March 27 ‑ May 13, 1805)
NOTHING
Roll 5 (May 13 ‑ July 12, 1805)
NOTHING
Roll 6 (July 13 ‑ August 25, 1805)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Jun 1805:
Peace was concluded with
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Aug 1805:
Lieutenant Robert Henly [sic] has
permission to return home due to bad health.
An excellent and deserving officer.
Roll 7 (August 25 ‑ October 31,
1805)
From
Isaiah Alden,
Two years ago, Lemuel Taylor of
Roll 8 (November 1 ‑ December 31,
1805)
From
William Wood, John Lyons, John Morrice [sic], and John Kelley [sic],
Former CONSTITUTION requesting
"protections" so they can go to sea.
Is there any prize money due?
[All had been transferred to PRESIDENT for return to the
Roll 9 (January 1 ‑ April 2, 1806)
From
Oliver Doane, Orrington, OH, 26 Mar 1806:
Son Thomas, born 21 Feb 1784 at
Orrington, was in CONSTITUTION 2 years and 3 months, and "died on the
passage home." Please send any
money due him.
Roll 10 (April 2 ‑ June 14, 1806)
From
Oliver Doane,
Acknowledges letter from SecNav, but
believes he is in error and that money is due.
[Annotated: Thomas Doane died 28 Aug 1806. Total due $10.81.]
Roll 11 (June 15 ‑ July 30, 1806)
From
Naval Constructor Josiah Fox,
"In compliance with your letter
of yesterdays date, I have enclosed herewith the particular dimensions of the
pieces composing the main masts, fore masts and Bowsprits for each of the 1st,
2d & 3d classes of Frigates; and also the dimensions of their Mizen [sic]
Masts in one stick. It may be proper for
me to State that as the pieces for spindles cannot be got otherways than out of
main bodies of Trees, the pith ought to be as near the center of the pieces as
possible, that the cheeks, paunches & Fishes ought to have the pith taken
out on their straight sides. It is of
the utmost consequence that the whole should be cut from the best thriving
yellow pine, free from large and bad knots, spa, shakes, and all manner of defects,
the foremast of the first class of Frigates being the size of the main masts of
the second class, and the foremasts of the Second Class those of the third
class, and the third those of the fourth, they are so stated accordingly."
"Table
of Dimensions of parts of Masts for the first, second, and third Classes of
Frigates
"The different parts of a main mast for
the 1st class of Frigates [Dimensions
follow in order: length, breadth at heel, breadth "between," breadth
at head, thickness at heel, thickness "between," and thickness at
head.]
Lower
spindle to line straight
29.11 x 20 1/2 x ‑ x 19 x 20 1/2
x ‑ x 7
Second
piece of spindle
77.4 x 20 x ‑ x 9 x 20 x ‑
x 14
Third
piece of spindle
48 x 16 x ‑ x 14 x 8 1/2 x ‑
x 11
After
lower fish
57.8 x 17 1/2 x ‑ x 14 x 14 x ‑
x 14
After
upper fish
50.1 x 15 1/4 x ‑ x 14 x 14 x ‑
x 14
Fore
lower fish
87.7 x 17 1/2 x ‑ x 14 x 14 x ‑
x 14
Fore
upper fish
40.1 x 15 1/4 x ‑ x 14 x 14 x ‑
x 14
Larboard
Side Tice [sic]
81.8 x 19 x ‑ x 17 x 12 x ‑
x 6
Larboard
Cheek
62.8 x 18 x 30 x 21 x 6 1/4 x 17 x 9
Paunch
54 x 12 x ‑ x 14 x 5 x ‑ x
8 1/4
the
parts of a fore mast of the 1st class to answer for the main mast of the 2d
class Frigates
Lower
Spindle to line Straight
27.5 x 19 1/2 x ‑ x 18 x 19 1/2
x ‑ x 6 1/2
Second
piece of Spindle
73.4 x 19 x ‑ x 13 1/2 x 19 x ‑
x 8
Third
piece of Spindle
44 x 15 1/2 x ‑ x 13 x 7 1/2 x ‑
x 10
Fore
lower Fish
80 x 16 1/2 x ‑ x 13 x 13 x ‑
x 13
Fore
upper Fish
36.4 x 13 x ‑ x 12 1/2 x 13 x ‑
x 13
After
lower Fish
70 x 16 1/2 x ‑ x 13 x 13 x ‑ x 13
After
upper Fish
46.4 x 13 x ‑ x 12 x 13 x ‑
x 13
Larboard
Side Tice [sic]
75 x 18 x ‑ x 16 x 11 x ‑
x 5
Larboard
Cheek
57.2 x 17 x 29 x 20 x 8 x 16 x 9
Paunch
48.6 x 11 x ‑ x 13 x 4 x ‑
x 7 1/2
Mizen
masts for the first...class of Frigates, each Mast to be of a solid stick
Length|94|3d quarter|22 1/4
Diam. Pam [?]|26|Hounds|22 1/4
1st quarter|25 1/2|Heel|22 1/4
2d quarter|24 1/4|Head|16 1/4
Bowsprits
[Figures, in order, are: length, breadth of heel, "breadth between,"
breadth at head, thickness at heel, "thickness between," thickness at
head, and number of pieces.]
First
Class
68 x 16 1/2 x 20 x 13 1/2 x 14 x 12 1/2
x 11 1/2 x1
68 x 16 1/2 x 20 x 13 1/2 x 16 x 19 x
13 1/2 x 1
Upper side of Larboard fish
68 x 8 1/2 x 11 1/2 x 7 x 25 x 29 x 21
1/2 x 2
Upper side of upper fish
68 x 27 x 29 1/2 x 21 1/4 x 7 ‑ x
6 x 1
From
Samuel Hughes, Havre de
Long guns of a length less than 18 calibers
"has been condemned by the officers I have heard speak on the
subject."
Roll 12 (July 31 ‑ September 26,
1806)
NOTHING
Roll 13
(September 29 ‑ December 31, 1806)
NOTHING
Roll 14
(January 3 ‑ March 23, 1807)
NOTHING
Roll 15 (March 24 ‑ June 25, 1807)
NOTHING
Roll 16 (June 26 ‑ August 28, 1807)
From
James Nazro,
Was in CONSTITUTION when she returned
to
From
John Heap,
His son, Surgeon S. D. Heap in
CONSTITUTION, has written that the ship is not expected to return shortly. Please forward enclosed letter to him.
Roll 17 (August 29 ‑ November 19,
1807)
From
John S. Henry,
Requests information on his midshipman
son.
From
Navy Agent Francis Johonnot,
CONSTITUTION and WASP "arrived
this day."
Roll 18 (November 19 ‑ December 31,
1807)
From
Lieutenant Archibald Henderson, USMC, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Dec 1807:
Requests authorization for double
rations as Officer in Charge, CONSTITUTION's Marine Guard; so ordered by
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell in an 8 Nov 1807 letter from a similar position in
USS WASP.
Roll 19 (January 1 ‑ 30, 1808)
From
Mary Williamson,
Is my son Reuben still in
CONSTITUTION? [Annotated: discharged 4
Dec 1808; paid in full.]
From Midshipman David
Claims to have been falsely accused of
sleeping on watch in CONSTITUTION by Sailing Master Baggot [sic] and requests
help in the matter.
From
Navy Agent John Beekman,
Requests $10,484.25 to pay for repairs
to CONSTITUTION ($5000) and canvas.
Roll 20 (February 1 ‑ March 8,
1808)
NOTHING
Roll 21
(March 9 ‑ May 9, 1808)
NOTHING
Roll 22 (May 10 ‑ July 8, 1808)
NOTHING
Roll 23 (July 9 ‑ September 30,
1808)
NOTHING
Roll 24 (October 1 ‑ December 6,
1808)
From
Giuseppe Hannini and
Enlisted in CONSTITUTION as Marines at
From
Samuel Hughes, Mt. Pleasant, MD, 19 Nov 1808:
About 36 short 24's are still at Cecil
Iron works from the 1795 contract. They
were cast in clay and bored with machinery made by M. De Ransy [sic]. It was the first experiment in the
Roll 25 (December 6 ‑ 30, 1808)
From
Henry Latrobe,
On the 17th, intend auctioning off
slabs of marble remaining from erection of the
Cost of erection: to Geo Blagden,
mason 465.84
to Patk Farrell, bricklayer 110.17
The iron railing ordered from General
Stricker at
Roll 26 (January 2 ‑ February 4,
1809)
From
Benjamin Waterhouse,
Seaman Thomas Williams, once in
CONSTITUTION and later in WASP, is now in the
Roll 27 (February 4 ‑ 28, 1809)
NOTHING
Roll 28 (February 28 ‑ March 20,
1809)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Feb 1809:
Says Midshipman [George] Pearce's
dismissal was due to his "impetuous, unrestrained, & misguided temper." Would not resist his reinstatement if he can
be made to understand how improper his behavior was. [Reinstated.]
Roll 29 (March 20 ‑ May 15, 1809)
From
H[enry] J. Knox,
Certifies that Thomas D. Corby served
in CONSTITUTION as a Quarter Gunner during the same time Knox was aboard as a
Midshipman, 1798‑99. [
Roll 30 (May 15 ‑ July 12, 1809)
NOTHING
Roll 31 (July 12 ‑ September 30,
1809)
From
Sally Henden,
Husband Garret has been Armorer in
CONSTITUTION for 4 months. Needs
allotment.
Roll 32 (September 30 ‑ December
31, 1809)
From
Robert Smith,
Seaman William Howell was in
CONSTITUTION and CONSTELLATION, and was disabled in service. Is entitled to receive a $5/mo. pension from
From
Commodore John Rodgers to Lewis Fairchild, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Oct 1809:
Grants him a furlough to make a
merchant voyage to
Roll 33 (January 1 ‑ February 15,
1810)
From
Paul Revere & Son,
Offers copper sheets, bolt, spikes,
and nails for sale. "...the Copper
which the Constitution was covered with when She was repaired in
Roll 34 (February 15 ‑ March 26,
1810)
NOTHING
Roll 35 (March 26 ‑ May 10, 1810)
NOTHING
Roll 36 (May 10 ‑ July 10, 1810)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, to Naval Agent John Bullus,
The salt pork furnished by Mr. Winship
last year was as good as any we have had.
I understand the beef was, too.
From
Lieutenant John
I came to
Roll 37 (July 11 ‑ August 29, 1810)
NOTHING
Roll 38 (August 29 ‑ November 14,
1810)
From
John Moore,
Wishes orders as a ship's cook. Lost a leg in CONSTITUTION under Captain
Campbell.
From
Surgeon's Mate Samuel Gilliland, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Oct 1810:
Wishes orders to USS ENTERPRIZE for
his health. Captain Hull consents.
Roll 39 (November 1 ‑ December 31,
1810)
NOTHING
Roll 40 (January 1 ‑ March 8, 1811)
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Jan 1811)
Letter of introduction for William S.
Hart, who seeks Midshipman appointments for Thomas Sanford Browne and James
Alexander Dallas Browne of Norwich, CT.
[Both appointed; neither served in CONSTITUTION.]
Roll 41 (March 8 ‑ May 16, 1811)
From
His son, William, in CONSTITUTION,
claims his term of enlistment was changed after he had signed the articles from
the time commencing when he got aboard ship to commencing when the ship first
got underway. Says 30 others were
similarly treated. Wants his
discharge. Says he is 9 months over his
agreed term. [Remained on board for most
of War of 1812.]
From
Henry Denison,
"Under authority of your letter
to Comdre Rodgers, dated 8th February 1810, I have been
acting as Chaplain on board the U. S. Frigates Constitution & President;
& I hope to the satisfaction of the Commodore. From the experience I have had, I am well
pleased with the service, & would wish to devote to it a portion of my
life, tho' I deem myself from Education & Habit better qualified for the
duties of a Purser.than those which now devolve on me. Should a vacancy occur in the Pursers
Department, may I beg you will consider me an applicant for it, & should
you think so favourably of my application as to grant me a warrant,I shall ever
feel myself under obligation. In the
mean time, until it may comport with your arrangements to order me to a Vessel,
I shall be perfectly satisfied with my present situation." [
Roll 42 (May 16 ‑ July 6, 1811)
From
John Randall,
CONSTITUTION arrived at 5 AM today.
From
William Burns,
Asks again that his son, Dr. Alex H.
Stevens, be allowed to travel to
From
Midshipman Adam S. E. Duncan, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Jun 1811:
Resigns to attend to father's estate
in
Roll 43 (July 7, 1811 ‑ September
10, 1811 [sic])
From
S. Smith,
Requests discharge of Private Fredk
Lubston in CONSTITUTION due to mother's extreme poverty. [Granted.]
From
Daniel Holland, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Jul 1811:
Requests discharge to care for parents
and wife. [Not granted.]
From
Midshipman Thomas Barlow,
Resigns. [Furloughed 9 Sep from CONSTITUTION.]
Roll 44 (September 1 [sic] ‑
October 31, 1811)
From
Edward Iggulden,
CONSTITUTION arrived here this morning
on passage to
Roll 45 (October 31 ‑ December 31,
1811)
From
Joel Barlow,
"It would give me pain to see the
frigate Constitution depart without addressing you a letter to express at once
my gratitude to you for the kindness with which you ordered every accommodation
for myself & family, my testimony of the good conduct of the captain &
other officers of the frigate.
"The talents of Captain Hull, as
well for discipline as for every other duty of command, are only equaled by his
zeal for the public service. It is
impossible for me to express in too strong a manner my respect for the merits
of that officer.
"The naval abilities &
amiable qualities of Mr. Morris must likewise place him in a distinguished rank
among his bretheren [sic] of the navy.
Indeed all the other lieutenants of this frigate Mr. Page, Mr. Reed
& Mr.
"The form, as well as the
equipment of this frigate, has been much admired in the several ports of
"Mrs. Barlow joins me in kind
& respectful remembrance to you & Mrs. Hamilton."
Roll 46 (January 1 ‑ February 21,
1812)
NOTHING
Roll 47 (February 22 ‑ April 15,
1812)
NOTHING
Roll 48 (April 15 ‑ May 21, 1812)
NOTHING
Roll 49 (May 21 ‑ July 2, 1812)
NOTHING
Roll 50 (July 2 ‑ August 8, 1812) [Note: title page erroneously labeled
"Roll 51, August 9 ‑ October 29, 1812".]
From
Charles L. Davis,
"Very great anxiety has been and
still is entertained for the Safety of the frigate Constitution.‑‑" "The Complaints against Commodore
Rodgers [for leaving
From
W. Wilson & Son,
Our ship DIANA, just arrived from
Roll 51 (August 9 ‑ October 29,
1812) [Note:
title page erroneously labeled "Roll 52, October 29 ‑ December 31,
1812"]
From
Jeremiah White, USS CONSTITUTION, 19 Sep 1812:
Captain Hull's Clerk, he seeks a new
billet as Captain Hull will not have a personal clerk at the Navy Yard and
Captain Bainbridge has someone else to go with him in the ship.
From
Benjamin Polland,
Recommends Sailing Master John
Aylwin's promotion to Lieutenant.
From
Chaplain John Cook,
Wishes orders out of CONSTITUTION
because he will be required to swing a hammock in the wardroom and not have a
stateroom. Requests
From
Chaplain John Cook,
Has learned he would have to swing a
hammock in
Roll 52 (October 29 ‑ December 31,
1812)
From
Stephen Singleton,
Inquires as to the fate of 20 bales of
cloth he had shipped from
From
G. Grainger,
Forwards a recommendation for John C.
Aylwin's promotion. The enclosed letter,
from John's brother, William C. Aylwin, notes that John accepted the Navy
position because he saw little prospect for employment in the merchant service
at the time, and presumed that he could "retire" if and when
prospects improved.
From
Acting Sailing Master Arthur Atcheson,
Reports that he was a volunteer
Master's Mate on board Constitution in the Guerriere fight and is
now, by Commodore Hull's appointment, Acting Sailing Master commanding Gun Boat
No. 118 at
Roll 53 (January 1 ‑ February 25,
1813)
From
Samuel Hughes. Cecil Iron Works, 8 Feb 1813:
:…and those [guns] on board the
Constitution in the late action were made at the Cecil Works. The last were made from a draft drawn by
Commodore Rodgers and sent round to
Roll 54 (February 25 ‑ April 7,
1813)
From
Jeremiah W. White,
Was Captain Hull's Clerk during the
battle with GUERRIERE. Requests
information on reported prize money. Has
certificate of service signed by Purser Thomas J. Chew.
From [?], 7 Mar 1812 [sic]:
John Sleight is now in
CONSTITUTION. Impressed in the Royal
Navy, he had finally secured his release as a bonafide American citizen in
Roll 55 (April 8 ‑ June 3, 1813)
From
Joseph Cross,
Forwards a trunk containing a service
of plate for Captain Hull honoring his victory over GUERRIERE.
From
G. Gibbon,
Requests orders for his son,
Midshipman Thomas Gibbon, to CONSTITUTION.
Roll 56 (June 3 ‑ July 16, 1813)
NOTHING
Roll 57 (July 17 ‑ August 31, 1813)
From
Midshipman Frederick Baury,
Requests orders to a sloop then
building at
From
Commodore William Bainbridge,
Forwards the above letter recommending
approval and also recommending Midshipman [Henry] Gilliam.
From
William Grinell,
Is ordinary Seaman John Crocker still
in CONSTITUTION? He shipped in her in
May or June 1812.
Roll 58 (August 31 ‑ October 26,
1813)
From
Thomas Hanahan,
Was brother William Chapman Hanahan
killed in the battle with GUERRIERE?
[No.]
From
John Muskett,
Forwards power of attorney to collect
prize money due John Reeney [sic], late
seaman in CONSTITUTION in both GUERRIERE and JAVA battles, who left the frigate
in April. Midshipman Belcher attests to
Reeney's veracity.
Roll 59 (October 27 ‑ December 31,
1813)
NOTHING
Roll 60 (January 1 ‑ February 12,
1814)
NOTHING
Roll 61 (February 12 ‑ March 23,
1814)
From
Joshua Humphreys, Port Reading Farm, to the Hon. Adam Seybert, Congress, 10 Feb
1814:
"The increase of our Navy appears
to be the wish of all parties in the
"'Permit me to mention to you
some Ideas which have occurred & which appears [sic] to me very necessary
and indispensable in every country compelled to have a Navy. The utility of copper bolting & sheathing
Ships of war is so well known that nothing on that subject need be said. Under this impression, arrives the absolute
neccessaty [sic] of having these Articles of our own produce & manufacture,
& I trust it will be found expedient.
The best copper bolts & sheathing that this country has been
supplied with is from England, & we have always been dependant [sic] on
that Nation for it; we have seen the exportation of it prohibited by that
Government; and it is known that an application for Copper by the Portuguese
government was refused within the course of the last three years, altho the two
powers were in the strictest Friendship & Alliance with each other; From
which it appears this country can never expect a permanent supply from the only
Nation who can furnish us with the best articles; will it not be wise to put
ourselves beyond the dependance [sic] we have experienced when it is in our
power, & if to encourage so necessary a thing a small sum should be
expended by the Public will not the country be fully compensated by the large
sums of money retained in it, which otherwise would be exported annually for
these Article [sic]. At the time the
British prohibited the exportation of it, much was smuggled to this Country
this shews [sic] the difficulties that have been encountered to obtain it;
indeed almost every day for some time past, has produced some circumstances to
induce me to believe it is both necessary & I hope it will be expedient to
adopt some measures for encouraging the working of our copper mines & the
establishing a copper manufactory, [and?] which will grow many branches usefull
[sic] & beneficial to this Country.
"'The ore of the copper mine near
"'The manufacturing of copper in
this country is certainly of importance & I am confident we should feel an
advantage in it; But the working of our copper mines & smelting the ore is
a primary object. Manufactures are of
little consequence without a supply of materials, therefore materials ought to
be the first Object.
"'The difficulty of procuring
copper for the 74 Gun ships induced Mr. Stoddert to set me about enquiring for
a suitable person that would undertake the smelting business, & to erect
some small works to make experiments, but not meeting with a suitable person
nothing was done.
"'There is a great sufficiency of
Copper in this Country & now several mines open, One in Maryland, one in
Pennsylvania & one in New Jersey, the latter is worked by Mr. Rosevelt
[sic]. I am informed the ore is very
rich & good, yet he has never (without it is lately) been able to make one
pound of malleable copper, for want of a proper person who understands the
smelting business.
"'You will see by the return a
quantity of base copper left from the Frigate Philadelphia which was obtained
from him, but by no means fit for the purpose it was purchased. Whenever the mines are worked there the ore
should be smelted to save the cartage of the dross ‑‑
"'Mr G. Wescot [sic] one of the
proprietors of the Maryland mine, informed me some time ago that he would
engage to supply a certain quantity of Ore annually at a given rate; he also
informed me he had shipped sword panels of his Ore to England to advantage, so
that it appears the only obstacle to the want of a proper person as a smelter ‑‑
"'From the produce of the Ore
sent Mr. Revere I should conclude he professes the Art of smelting Ore, if he
would not understand it, perhaps one of his Sons would, if neither I have no
doubt but a suitable person could be obtained in England ‑
"'If a War should take place
(which God forbid) between this country and England, we should then sensibly
feel the want of that article, if no provision was made previous to such an
event, we shall then be seriously convined [sic] of the imperious necessity of
immediately encouraging such works ‑‑ The smelting & refining
& manufacturing of Copper for Naval purposes does not require so much
labour as finer manufactures do, of course more likely to succeed in this
country, especially as the labour is performed either by water or Steam, all
which to hold out great security to the US for any encouragement [ ? ] may give
for this purpose ‑
"'The manufacturing of Sail duck
is also a matter of importance; this Article from the best information I could
obtain can be manufactured to advantage in the state of Kentucky, price there
is very low, of course labour & all articles of produce must be [ ? ] hemp
is growed [sic] there to great advantage, no doubt the members of Congress from
that state can give the best information on the subject; I have seen some sail duck made there,
sufficient for [ ? ] kind of ships; I am
informed the house that was building the [ ? ] to carry on that branch of
business, was blown down before it was finished & and never since attempted
‑‑
"'The establishment of such a
manufactory in that part of the US, will have many good effects; It will more
diffuse the public expenditures through the US; it will give to them the
profits we give to foreigners, besides making us independant [sic] in that
Article; it will tend to bind and attach the most distant & unconnected
states to each other, It will create a very natural & just dependance [sic]
of one State to another, it will stronger & stronger [sic] from interested
motive, bind the Union, all which appears to me a great national object worthy
of cultivation ‑
"'I am sensible men often decive
[sic] themselves as to what they conceive to be important matter, but when
their opinions are examined by men of talent, they are often found of little
[obliterated] however I have ventured to make communication under full
confidence of your receiving it with every indulgence, and if the Ideas have
been anticipated as of little worth, I still hope you will consider my attempt
was well ment [sic].'"
"*
Since writing the above I was informed by the British Admiral Coffin, that in
all the King's yards, they now have furnaces erected where they throw all the
cuttings of copper & run it in a fine malleable state, before which the
cutings [sic] were sold for half price.
"Mr.
Wescot since dead ‑"
Roll 62 (March 23 ‑ May 2, 1814)
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Apr 1814:
Recommends lieutenancies for
Midshipman Tayloe and Winter.
From
J. W. Norris,
Requests discharge of William Summerl
[sic] due to death of father and his inheritance of "a handsome
fortune." He has been in
CONSTITUTION since Jun 1813. [Annotated:
may be discharged when able‑bodied substitute is provided.]
Roll 63 (May 4 ‑ June 18, 1814)
From
George Long,
Requests permission for ailing
Midshipman John C. Long, now in CONSTITUTION, to remain ashore. [Annotated:
grant furlough to report to Department when fit for duty.]
From
Doyle Sweeny,
Requests information on small sum
granted to John Kemp and other seamen in
Roll 64 (June 18 ‑ August 6, 1814)
NOTHING
Roll 65 (August 6 ‑ September 29,
1814)
NOTHING
Roll 66 (September 29 ‑ November
17, 1814)
NOTHING
Roll 67 (November 17 ‑ December 31,
1814)
NOTHING
Roll 68 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1815)
From
the Board of Naval Commissioners, 25 Jany 1816:
"[Exhibit]
B
"Estimate of
the annual expense of a 44. Jan 1816
Pay
& Subsistence
29=10,585 rations @ 25cts=2646.25
Pay & subsistence of the Navy=64974.25
450|3 = 1095 rations @ 25 cts=273.75
Pay & subsistence of Marines=5073.75
Pay & subsistence of navy officers seamen=$70,048
Provisions
Clothing for Marines
Military Stores for Marines
Recapitulation & General Estimate
Roll 69 (February 1 ‑ March 10.
1815)
NOTHING
Roll 70 (March 1 ‑ April 11, 1815)
From
Senator John Taylor,
Urges promotion of Lieutenant John T.
Shubrick in view of his sterling war service, writing, "When Morris under
Hull displayed his greatest skill, Shubrick ably executed plans, being occupied
Eleven Hours in an open Boat heaving Kedge anchors performing every thing that
was then making [?] the Safety of the Ship Constitution…" [At the time of this writing, Shubrick was
serving in USS Epervier, which disappeared without a trace just four
months later.]
Roll 71 (April 11 ‑ May 7, 1815)
From
J. W. McCauley,
Announces he is CONSTITUTION's prize
agent for ex‑HMS CYANE and offers the ship for sale to the Navy.
Roll
72 (May 8 ‑ June 28, 1815)
From
Jonah Dunn, May 1815:
Edward Storer of
From
William Goods,
Requests money due him for service as
Carpenter's Mate in CONSTITUTION "6 or 7 Years ago." [Annotated: "23 April 1808. 184.46.
Bullus paid."]
From
Benjamin Austin, Sr.,
Requests furlough for son Surgeon's
Mate Benjamin Austin, Jr., of CONSTITUTION, who made her last three cruises.
From
John Binns,
Midshipman J. H. Dobbins in PROMETHEUS
wishes orders to CONSTITUTION.
[Annotated:
order him to UNITED STATES.]
From
J. W. McCauley,
Protests at length the niggardly
proposal that the Navy would purchase CYANE for $40,000 if the captors would
agree to turn over a portion of the proceeds to the Pension Fund, an act that
would leave but $18,000 to be shared by them.
Asks that the Secretary reconsider.
Roll 73 (June 28 ‑ September 25,
1815)
From
SecNav to Commodore William Bainbridge, USS INDEPENDENCE, 5 Jul 1815:]
"From the contents of your letter
to the Navy Board & their report to me, in consequence of said letter, a
Copy of which is enclosed, I am led to believe the U.S. Ship Independence is
not fit for a Seventy four…[if] you cannot render her sea worthy &
efficient as a 74, she must be returned to the Navy Yard in Charlestown &
be dismantled &c in order to be razeed, as the only alternative we
have left, in which case, the men Stores & provisions, as far as they may
be required, are to be applied to the Frigates Constitution & United
States, which Ships must be immediately equipped for sea, & if you are to
command either of them, leaving to you the preferred, and proceed to take
command of the Squadron in the Mediterranean, now commanded by Como
S Decatur…"
[Enclosure]
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, USS INDEPENDENCE, to Commodore John Rodgers,
"…To increase her stability, I
deemed it proper to remove from her the heavy 32 pounders from the lower deck,
& place the medium 32 pounders from the main deck on it, & to mount the
Constitutions 24 pounders on the main deck…"
From
Benjamin Austin, Sr.,
Requests orders for his son.
From
N. D. Nicholson,
Seeks lieutenancy for Acting
Lieutenant William L. Gordon, who was in CONSTITUTION for GUERRIERE and JAVA
fights.
From
Commandant Isaac Hull,
Furloughed this day from CONSTITUTION
Midshipmen Steel [sic] and Stewart, whose conduct has been such that their
"dismissal would be no loss to the service."
From
Midshipman Archibald M. Stewart, 21 Sep 1815:
Have secured a 2nd mate's berth on a
voyage to
From
Midshipman William Steele,
I expect to report for duty on 1 May
1816. Until then, I will be at
Roll 74 (September 25 ‑ December
30, 1815)
From
J. W. McCauley,
Reports that although he had accepted
the $40,000 figure for the purchase of CYANE "Before I left
Roll 75, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑
February 7, 1816)
From
Midshipman
Has been in CONSTITUTION 18
months. Requests orders to
Vol 2 (February 7 ‑ March 23, 1816)
From J. W. McCauley,
Reports
that the New York Navy Agent finally has agreed to pay over $40,000 for CYANE. Also reports he is holding $1704.48,
representing half of the sale proceeds pf goods from LORD NELSON and asks what
to do with it. {Annotated: deposit with
the Treasury.]
From
Aaron H. Palmer,
Requests pension for Benjamin Norcross
who was a Sergeant, USMC, and WIA in CONSTITUTION.
Vol 3 (March 23 ‑ May 4. 1816)
From
Hon. William H. Roane,
What happened to John Hurt, said to
have been in CONSTITUTION under
From
Captain John Crabb, USMC, HQMC, 10 Apr 1816:
Sergeant Benjamin Norcross was
discharged on 11 Jul 1815. His pay was
#11/mo.
From
Board of Naval Commissioners,
Lieutenant Nathaniel Haraden thought
to be "suitable for his present station and employment but not fit for a
higher rank."
Roll 76, Vol 4 (May 6 ‑ July 23,
1816)
From
Board of Naval Commissioners, 9 May 1816:
Sailing Master Marmaduke Dove is
deficient, dilatory, and negligent.
Discharge recommended.
Vol 5 (July 24 ‑ September 23,
1816)
From
James Edwards,
My Son, Thomas Edwards, entered
CONSTITUTION in Aug 1813, shortly after returning in a cartel from
Roll 77, Vol 6 (September 23 ‑
November 20, 1816)
From
Commodore William Bainbridge,
Having appointed Midshipman William
Taylor an Acting Lieutenant in
Vol
7 (November 20 ‑ December 31, 1816)
From
Acting Lieutenant John C. Long, USS BOXER, 7 Dec 1816:
Was in CONSTITUTION with Bainbridge
and Stewart. Furloughed sick 14 Jun
1814.
Roll 78, Vol 82 (Vol. 1: Jan. 1 ‑
Feb. 8, 1817)
From
the Board of Naval Commissioners, 3 Jan 1817:
"...the commissioners
have...their doubts as to the capacity of the
From
Bainbridge to the Board, enclosed with foregoing, dated "Oct. 1816):"
"...In the action with the Java
two of the Carronades on board the Constitution, even in the early part of the
action were struck with violence by the enemy's round shot, so much so, as to
make a considerable indentation in the guns, yet these Carronades continued the
remainder of the action in a very serviceable fire on the Enemy, and are to
this day safe pieces of ordnance.‑‑"
From
Bainbridge, 8 Feb 1817:
"The bearer Midshipman Eskridge has
been in actual Service ever since the date of his Warrant January 1812; he was
on board the Frigate Constitution in her three Actions with the British Ships
Guerriere, Java, Levant & Cyanne [sic].
He has been under my immediate command in the Constitution &
Independence, during which time his conduct was such as to meet with my
approbation. And I think him well
qualified for promotion."
Vol 2 (Feb. 8 ‑ Mar. 21, 1817)
From
Surgeon John A. Kearney, 13 Feb 1817:
Was Eskridge's shipmate in CONSTITUTION.
From
Charles H. Pond,
"James Durand, a native of this town
& a neighbor of mine requests me to forward you the following statement of
his case ‑‑
"He says that in the spring of 1804
he entered the Navy of the United States for two years, at twelve dollars a
month, under Lieut. Cox who was recruiting men at Baltimore for the John Adams:
he joined the Ship at New York, after cruising some time in the Mediterranean,
the Ship touched at Tunis, where he was drafted into the Constitution Com.
Rodgers. the C. proceeded to Gibraltar
where Com. Rodgers left her & Capt Campbell took the command, that he
remained on board till she arrived at Boston in the fall of 1807: that while he
was on shore with a friend the ship sailed for New York, to join her he took
passage in a Brig he supposed for New York, but she proceeded to France, on the
voyage the vessel was captured & he pressed into the British service where
he was detained 7 years.
"Durand asks why he cannot now recover
his pay, as he has never received any.
As he has no discharge, he has wished me to give you the forgoing [sic] detail
that you may see at one view the combination of unfortunate circumstances which
not only prevented him from obtaining one, but also prevented his earlier
application for his wages. He hopes for
your favorable answer."
Roll 79, Vol 84 (March 21 ‑ May 9,
1817)
NOTHING
Vol 85 (May 9 ‑ July 11, 1817)
From
Mr. Wm Callander,
"The subscriber takes this method
respectfully to Inform you that he has a Communication to make to you
respecting an Experiment that he has been trying to Accomplish times upwards of
Four Years at the Navy Yard Charlestown, I have made Considerable in the
Buisness [sic] with the Assistance of Commodore Bainbridge, commodore Hull and
Capt Stewart when he was in Boston and Commanded the Frigate constitution.
"Sir the Intent of the above
Experiment is to make the navy of the
"Sir I waited on General Swift on
Saturday last and requested that I might be permitted to see your Excellency
but he Informed me that I could not be admitted to see the president of the
"Sir shall it ever be said on the
departure of your Excellency from Boston that a Citizen of that town and a
Soldier of the revolutionary War and who has been Employed upwards of four
Years nearly at his own Expence [sic] to bring forward Something for the Good
of his Country and has been noticed and Encouraged by such men as a Bainbridge
a Hull and a Stewart that shall not be permitted to speak to the Father of his
Country and give him information on the
same Subject, sir on Receepit [sic] of
this Letter I hope your Excellency will be of a Different mind from General
Swift and that I shall be permitted to see the President of the U. states when
ever he Can make it Convenient Either by day or by night before he Leaves
Boston.
"I am Sir Respectfully your
Excellencies [sic]
Humble
Sert, Wm Callander No 62
From
Henry Clark,
"John Murphy of this place entered the
service of the
From
Mary Myers,
"My Husband Frederick Myers a German
about Six years ago entered on board of the Constition [sic] as a Marine. he then was about Forty two years Old I once heard that he dead [sic] and never
have received any letter from him makes me conclude he is dead‑‑ he
left me with four small Children‑‑ you would much oblige a Poor
distressed Woman by examining the returns from the officers of the Constition
[sic] if any such Person was killed or died on board by such a Name‑‑
if so when, and how he Came by his Death and if so if any thing be due him and
what, as I might obtain it
by so doing you will much
oblige Me
Mary Myers
living in the City of
& to the care of Robert
Gorsuch No 8
North
[Annotated "Died 6 Decr 1814. No pay appears due."]
Roll 80, Vol 86 (July 11 ‑
September 15, 1817)
"Greensburghs
Westmoreland Cony.
"Sir having Seen published in the
National Intelligencer Some time Since, the death of a Brother of mine William
Horrell who was killed On Board the Constitution Frigate, Captn. Stewart
(Commander) on the 20th Febry. 1815 at the Capture of 2 British Ships of War.
The
"I am with Esteem your Humble Servt.
John Horrell
{Annotated: "A Marine ‑‑ due him per Paymaster's statement $40 61/100."]
Vol 87 (September 15 ‑ November 27,
1817)
From
Daniel Hogan,
"I am the Daniel Hogan Who belonged to
the united States Ship Constitution when She captured the Java & I got
wounded in the action I Recved [sic] a pension Certificate therefrom payible
[sic] at Boston whish [sic] I have Since left I Will thank you to Send me
directed to the Care of John Hannan 333 Water Strett [sic] New York another
Certificate or a coppy [sic] of my old one so that I Can receive my monney
[sic] wich [sic] I want as I am just arrived here.
Your honor
obedient Servant
his
Daniel + Hogan
mark
I
Cannot write my name because I had my fingers Shot off In the Action"
Vol 88 (November 27‑December 31,
1817)
From
James L. Sawyer,
"...My brother Horace B. Sawyer...on
the day of the declaration of war, and at the age of seventeen, obtained a
Midshipman's Warrant...and was ordered on board the vessels on this
Horace B. Sawyer is the son of Colonel
James Sawyer of the Revolution.
From
Sylvester Stacy,
Shipped in CONSTITUTION under Stewart and
made 1814 "short" cruise; in
From
Joseph G. Smith,
"...In the Spring of 1814 I was
appointed a Midshipman...and ordered to join the...Constitution then lying
in...
From
Collins Darling,
"I am requested by a poor woman, to
write to you respecting Gilbert Jay, a boy, who belonged to the Navy for
sometime during the war, and was on board the Constitution. She informs me that her son has received no
pay for his Services; If so, and if there is anything now due to him, it will
be essentially beneficial to this mother."
[Annotated: "...cannot find...on any
of the Constitution's Rolls..."]
Roll 81, Vol 89 (January 1‑February
6, 1818)
From
Hon. Ezekiel Whitman, H. of R.,
"I have be requested to inquire
whether there are any sums due to Asa Farr one of the Crew of the Constitution
who was discharged from her July 30, 1815 for prize money due on account of the
capture by that vessel of the Lord Nelson, Susanna, Cyane & Levant or
either of them. I would beg you to favor
me with such information as the Navy Department can afford relative
thereto."
Vol 90 (February 6‑March 26, 1818)
From
Lewis Lacy,
"...Midn Allen Griffen...served in the
Constitution Captain Hull at the Capture of the Guerriere with Captain
Warrington in the Peacock..."
From Brevet Major Archibald Henderson,
"...To allowance of double rations
while on board the Frigate Constitution, from 1st Septr. 1813 to 1st June 1815
= 668 days @ 3 rations pr day, 2004 rations @ 20/100 = $400..."
Vol 91 (March 26 ‑ May 28, 1818):
From
House of Representatives, 4 Apr 1818:
"That the Secretary for the Department
of the Navy, be instructed to report to this House, during the first week of
the next Session of Congress, a particular statement of the expenditure of the
appropriations made by an act rewarding the Officers and Crew of the Frigate
Constitution...passed march [sic] 3rd 1813...designating the names of the prize
agents appointed under the...[Act], and the payments by them respectively made,
specifying the time when, and persons to whom the same have been made, and the
balance, if any, remaining in their hands, unexpended."
Roll 82, Vol 92 (June 1 ‑ July 31,
1818)
From
Seth Hunt,
"Asa Fisher was a Marine on Board the
Constitution Capt Prebble [sic] and in the Frigate President for three years
during the War with Tripoli viz. from May 1803 to May 1807 [sic] ‑ he was
regularly discharged by Lt. Col. Wharton at Washington... Asa Fisher states that he was entitled to a
share in the prize money due the Crew of the Constitution on account of the
prizes taken from the Tripolitans as also to Grog money for 11 money and
seventeen days as will appear by reference to the Books in the Navy Department
& to the accounts of the Purser Mr Morris.."
{Annotated: "No information in the 4th
Auditor's office..."]
From
BNC, 24 Jun 1818:
If you intend to employ the Constitution
this summer, she will require considerable repairs, particularly in her upper
works and possibly her gun deck, as well as much caulking.
From
Robert Gardner,
"James Gardner of Harpswell...
Roll 83, Vol 93 (August 1 ‑
September 15, 1818)
From
Henry Strong,
Forwards an affidavit of Mrs. Nancy Brice,
widow of the deceased Robert, "late a sailor" in CONSTITUTION, in
order to have her pension continued.
Vol 94 (September 16 ‑ November 12,
1818)
From
Paul Hamilton, Washington, DC, 10 Jun 1818 (an encl):
"...There shall be three distinct orders
of broad Pendants. The broad pendent
[sic] of the first order shall be blue with white stars. That of the second order shall be red with
white stars. That of the third order
shall be white with blue stars."
From
Charles W. Goldsborough,
Forwards pay roll showing prize money paid
to CONSTITUTION crew for GUERRIERE and JAVA.
Most paid in 1813. Currently
about $3116 remains to be paid. (Roll
not included.)
Vol 95 (November 12 ‑ December 31.
1818)
NOTHING
Roll 84, Vol 96 [incorrectly numbered 95]
(January 1 ‑ February 22, 1919)
NOTHING
Vol 97 [incorrectly numbered 96]
(February 23 ‑ April 5, 1819)
NOTHING
Vol 98 [incorrectly numbered 97] (April 6
‑ June 8, 1819)
NOTHING
Roll 85, Vol 99 (June 9 ‑ July 31,
1819)
From
W, J, Duane,
"...John Harkins was a seaman on
board the Constitution, when Guerriere was taken, and was also on board the
General Pike upon the Lakes [dying during the winter of 1814‑1815]..."
Vol 5 [sic] (August 1 ‑ November 1,
1819)
From
Nathaniel Cushing,
"Memo of Anchors made by Nathl Cushing
for the Navy of the U. S."1798
Jany.‑‑ Made an Anchor
for the Constitution Frige. [sic] wg 6,116 lbs ‑‑ Comme [sic] Nickerson [sic] immediately
ordered N. Cushing to go on & make more to replace & reject [sic] the other Anchors the
Constitution has, which Mr. Cushing has not made. But
the Navy Agt. stated she must go to sea too soon."
Vol 6 [sic] (November 1 ‑ December
21, 1819)
NOTHING
Roll 86, Vol 102 [sic] (January 2 ‑
February 17, 1820)
An estimate for CONSTITUTION's crew in
ordinary among mid‑January letters.
From
BNC, 3 Feb 1820:
In proofing cannon, the French fire a gun
twice, each time with 2 shot and a powder charge equal to one‑half the
shot size.
The English use 2 shot and 18 lbs. of
powder for a 24‑pdr, and 2 shot and 21.5 lbs. powder for a 32‑pounder.
Americans use 2 shot and 16 lbs. of powder
for a 24‑pdr, and 2 shot and 21.33 lbs. of powder for a 32‑pdr.
Windage in French guns is 1/50th; in
English guns, 1/20th; in American, 1/25th, making French proof equal to
English, but American "rather inferior to either."
Vol 103 [sic] (February 18 ‑ April
1, 1820)
NOTHING
Roll 87, Vol 104 (April 1 ‑ May 15,
1820)
NOTHING
Vol 105 (May 16 ‑ June 30, 1820)
From
Henry Clark,
"Joseph Brown & Andrew B. Huff of
this port were on board the Frigate Constitution the cruise she Captured
the Cyane & Levant ‑‑
Huff in Decr. 1815 empowerd [sic] me to receive his proportion of prize money 2
1/2 shares then accruing to him, which I received at Philadelphia ‑‑
in 1816. April 26 Chapter 79 An Act
passed authorizing a distribution of 25,000 Dollars to the Officers & crew
of the Constitution for the Capture of the Levant.‑‑ Huffs proportion of this never has been
received as he has been absent. Brown
went to sea in 1815 leaving his ticket with his wife & has never returnd
[sic] & is supposed long since to have been dead‑‑
"Will you be pleased to direct me
regarding the proper course to be taken to receive the balance due Huff‑‑
& the amount due Brown, of whom death not any reasonable doubt remains‑‑
& the law of this State will authorize Letters of administration to be now
taken out on his estate."
[Annotated: "both on Rolls of the
Constitution"]
Vol 106 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1820)
From
William Hopkins,
"...I was Two year [sic] With
Commidore [sic] Talbot in the French Disturbence [sic] in the Constitucion
[sic]...I am 55..."
From
John Gaillard,
"My relative Acting Midshipman Samuel
Gaillard is desirous of being employed in some active service & expresses a
wish to be attached to the Constitution as she is reported to be preparing for
sea. As he is now 19 years of
age..."
Roll 88, Vol 6 [sic] (September 1 ‑
November 11, 1820)
From
Captain John Rodgers, BNC, to SecNav, 27 Sep 1820:
Will CONSTITUTION be required for
service "in any short time?"
From
Robert C. Vose,
Requests any wages due Samuel
Larrabee, once a seaman in CONSTITUTION.
[Larrabee was a deserter.]
Vol 7 (November 13 ‑ December 31,
1820)
From
Thomas S. Lockwood, Neversink Falls, CT, 29 Dec 1820:
States his son, Samuel, a midshipman,
was born on 24 Jan 1803 at
Roll 89, Vol 109 [sic] (January 1 ‑
February 16, 1821)
From Lewis R. Morris,
Desires his midshipman son, Richard
H., be ordered to CONSTITUTION or ALLIGATOR, both of which are said set to sail
in the spring. [Ordered to
CONSTITUTION.]
From
Captain John Rodgers, BNC, 12 Feb 1821:
Reports that Sailing Master Doxey's
device for propelling ships in calm waters is worthy of an experiment and
recommends CONSTITUTION as the test ship.
Vol 2 [sic] (February 17 ‑ April
30, 1821)
From
The Honorable P. Beecher,
Requests orders to the Washington Navy
Yard for Midshipman Augustus Barnhouse until he can be ordered to sea.
From
The Honorable N.
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION for
Midshipman John Dickinson Bird [sic: Byrd].
From
The Honorable N.
Again request orders for Midshipman
John D. Byrd from the New Orleans Station to active service. [Done.]
From
Governor J. Franklin,
States that his State has commissioned
a statue of George Washington from the Marquis Canova of Italy, and requests
that, when done, it be brought to the
From
Captain Isaac Hull,
Attests to the good conduct of Acting
Midshipman [Samuel] Gaillard of CONSTITUTION, who was in charge of the heaving
down party prior to the arrival of more senior ship's officers. Recommends him for a warrant before the ship
sails.
Roll 90, Vol 3 (May 2 ‑ June 30,
1821)
NOTHING
Vol 4 (July 2 ‑ August 22, 1821)
From
Thomas Robinson,
Certifies that John Lovell was a quarter
gunner in CONSTITUTION in 1804 when Robinson was First Lieutenant.
From
Abraham Shoemaker,
Certifies that William Lovell was
mistakenly enlisted as John Lovell when recruited for CONSTITUTION.
From
Navy Agent Henry & McCall,
Commodore Jones in CONSTITUTION, with
Roll 91, Vol 5 (August 23 ‑ October
12, 1821)
From
Navy Agent Henry & McCall,
CONSTITUTION still in port, but
Commodore Jones expects to sail on the 25th for Port Mahon to take on the bread
and whiskey stored there.
Vol 6 (October 16 ‑ November 30,
1821)
NOTHING
NOTHING
Roll 92, Vol 1 [sic] (January 1 ‑
February 14, 1822)
From
Navy Agent George Harrison,
Forwards a statement on the number of
medals ordered, forwarded, and remaining to be completed, and reports that a new press is about to go on line and
do the copper medals.
Vol 2 (February 14 ‑ April 3, 1822)
From
Lieutenant John A. Belsches,
Forwards attestations of his character
including aN 1813 resolution of the Virginia legislature awarding him, and then‑Midshipman
William Taylor, their thanks and a ceremonial sword in recognition of their
participation in the victories over HMS GUERRIERE and HMS JAVA.
Roll 93, Vol 3 (April 4 ‑ May 26,
1822)
From
John Williams,
Received a letter from the Chaplain of
CONSTITUTION, Addison Searle, reporting the death of his son, William Williams,
of consumption on 27 Feb 1822, and his burial in the Protestant Burying Ground
at Port Mahon,
From
Captain Jacob Jones to Acting Midshipman Edward Lewis, 17 Apr 1822:
Approves of his conduct. [Warranted a Midshipman, 19 Dec 1822.]
Vol 4 (May 27 ‑Jul 24, 1822)
From
George Harrison,
Reports thirty silver copies of the Jacob
Jones medal will be delivered to SecNav in June.
Vol 5 (Jul 25 ‑ Sept 19, 1822)
From
Midshipman Samuel F. Dupont,
Reports his arrival in the
Roll 94, Vol 6 (September 21 ‑
December 3, 1822)
NOTHING
Vol 7 (December 3 ‑ 31, 1822)
From
Master Commandant Wolcott Chauncey, USS ONTARIO, to Captain Isaac Hull,
CONSTITUTION put carpenters A. Blakesley
and David Lloyd aboard the brig SULTANA, then in distress, at sea. Her men were to be landed to await the
frigate' arrival, but the brig was denied pratique. I provided food for them and told them to
report to you when the brig arrived at
Roll 95, Vol 123 (January 1 ‑
February 11, 1823)
From
Constant Freeman, 4th Auditor, 4 Jan 1823:
William Mahy was Acting Gunner in
CONSTITUTION from 3 August to 17 October 1803, when he was disrated to Quarter
Gunner and discharged as unfit for service.
Vol 124 (February 11 ‑ April 2,
1823)
NOTHING
Roll 96, Vol 125 (April 2 ‑ May 23,
1823)
From
Paymaster's Office, HQMC, 24 Apr 1823:
Private Samuel Yorkes was in CONSTITUTION
[late in last war].
From
Navy Agent Richard McCall,
CONSTITUTION with Commodore Jones arrived
21 Apr in company with
From
Navy Agent Richard McCall,
CONSTITUTION sailed yesterday intending to
return in 10 days.
Vol 4 [sic] (May 24 ‑ August 2,
1823)
From
Charles W. Goldsborough, 2 Aug 1823:
"I beg leave to submit to your
consideration the enclosed account which appears to me to be made out upon
correct principles.
"As agent of the crew of the frigate
Constitution, acting under a power of attorney, signed by all the officers
& the greater portion of the crew, & considered by the navy Department
as sufficient. I received the 100,000
dollars appropriated by law of 3 Mar 1813, to be distributed as prize money
among the captors of the British frigates, the Guerriere & the Java.
"Having, in this character, received
this money, I considered myself, in law & in justice, accountable only to
the captors for its distribution; & I may add, without fear of contradiction
from any quarter, that the trust has been faithfully discharged ‑‑
& that no instance can be cited in which, under similar circumstances, more
payments have been actually made, or more exertions used to make them ‑ If the slightest murmur has ever escaped any
one of the individuals concerned, it has never reached me.
"In the first instance, soon after the
passage of the law, I produced to the Secretary of the Navy a power of attorney
signed by commre. Bainbridge & capt Hull, the commanding officers ‑‑
the Secretary decided that such a power was not sufficient to justify him in
paying the money to me ‑ I
then procured another power, signed by all the officers, & all the crew
then in Boston & produced that power to the Secretary, who pronounced it
sufficient, & paid me the money accordingly.
"I am now, at this late date, given
to understand that I am considered in the light of an agent of the Government,
& accountable to it for the disbursement of the money paid to me;‑
& that the power of attorney under which I have acted is considered good
only with reference to those who actually signed it‑ & after a lapse
of more than 10 years I am called on to make good the alleged deficiencies of
an instrument pronounced to be good & sufficient, & acted upon as such
when it was originally produced ‑
"I may ask, with perfect confidence,
where is the evidence of my acting on this occasion as disbursing agent of the
Government ‑‑ where is my appointment? ‑‑ where the
form is prescribed ‑‑ where the instructions given to me ‑‑
where the compensation agreed on? ‑‑ none are to be found, because
none was given ‑ & none, I presume, thought necessary at the time I
received the money ‑
"I make this point, which I know I am
submitting to an enlightened jurist ‑
It is not competent for any branch of the Government, nor is it
competent for the whole Government, in the exercise of all it's powers, to
impose any responsibilities in addition to those existing at the time I
received the money ‑‑
Retrospective laws, being in their nature tyrannical, &
expressly forbid by that instrument, in which all the powers of Government
originate ‑‑ retrospective decisions, reversing those previously
made & acted upon by both parties, are as repugnant to the genius
& spirit of the Constitution, as retrospective laws ‑‑ Admit for a moment, that the power of
attorney produced by me was not, in Law, fully sufficient, to justify the
payment to me of the whole sum, & that the decision as to its sufficiency
was wrong ‑‑ then I would ask, is the weight of this error to fall
upon my shoulders ‑ Am I to be
sufferer, because of an error in judgment in one of the representatives of the
Government? Can I, upon any principle of
common justice, be called on to remedy defects, which but for that error of
judgment, might have been supplied at the time, but which at this late day are
utterly without remedy?
"If I am correct in the view I have
taken ‑ & have formed a just conception of the relations & rights
of an agent & attorney ‑: If I
be under no one's apprehension as to the constitutional principle involved in
this case ‑ then Sir, I presume it will be conceded that the enclosed
amount is correctly drawn out ‑ & in that case I shall hope that it
will be approved by you ‑
"Knowing, as I do, that I am
addressing an able expounder of the Constitution, whose experience in the Law
& in the administration of justice, will supply every defect in the views
submitted ‑ & persuaded, as I am, of your disposition to render
justice, I commit this case to your decision, with all the confidence inspired
by these sentiments ‑ & beg to assure you that I am, with great
respect
"Sir
"Yr mo obdnt
"Ch
"Wash. 2 Aug 1823
"P.S. I would respectfully refer to the
communication, which I made to the Secretary of the Navy ‑ on the 7 Oct.
1818 in which I stated my view of the relation in which I stood to the
Department, & to the crew‑ The
sum in my hands yet to be paid over is small ‑ but for it I am answerable
to those to whom it belongs ‑ any one or all of whom might appoint
another agent to receive of me & I failed to pay, might recover of me at
Law‑ I hold myself precisely thus
situated, accountable in Law & justice to them, but to them only."
[Enclosure.]
"The
Dr.
"1813
March - To amount appropriated ‑ to be
distributed among the Officers
& crews ‑ in reward for the capture
$100,000
Supra Cr.
"1813
March -- By Warrant on the Treasury -- $100,000"
[Enclosure]
"Copy
Received
March 20th 1813, a Warrant No. 3355 drawn by the Secretary of the Navy on the
Treasurer of the Navy, in my favour, for One hundred thousand dollars, with
which I am to be charged, and held accountable at the Office of the Accountant
of the Navy ‑‑ Ch. W. Goldsborough"
Roll 97, Vol 5 (August 5 ‑ October
15, 1823)
From
Navy Agent Richard McCall,
CONSTITUTION arrived on 10th with
From
Navy Agent Richard McCall,
CONSTITUTION still in port, hoping to get
news of relief.
From Edward B. Littlefield,
Midshipman Grey Skipworth is his stepson.
Vol 6 (October 18 ‑ December 1,
1823)
From
Navy Agent Richard McCall,
CONSTITUTION went to
From
Navy Agent Richard McCall,
CONSTITUTION still here awaiting relief.
Vol 7 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1823)
NOTHING
Roll 98, Vol 1 [sic] (January 1 ‑
February 7, 1824)
From
John Heap,
Is CONSTITUTION due home soon? I am in poor
health and hope to see my son, Dr. Samuel Heap.
Vol 2 (February 9 ‑ March 23, 1824)
From
Navy Agent Richard McCall,
CONSTITUTION still in bay awaiting CYANE.
From
Constant Freeman, Fourth Auditor's Office, 21 Feb 1824 (enclosures):
"Statement exhibiting the annual amount of money expended in conformity with the provisions of an Act entitled "An Act for the gradual increase of the Navy of the United States" approved 29th April 1816, and of the Act to amend said Act, approved 3rd March 1821, prepared in pursuance of a Resolution of the House of Representatives of the United States passed the 17th February 1823.
‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑
"Abstract exhibiting the disbursements incident to the Navy establishment from 24th September 1798 to 31st December 1823 inclusive
‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑‑
"....
1813
[Appropriation] for the captures of Guerriere and Java $100,000.
1816
ditto do. of the
1818
appropriation for Swords & Medals 4000.00
1819
swords & medals 7000.00
1820
Swords & medals 2000.00
Swords & Medals 5,595.88
From
John Bailey,
Midshipman John Marston was in CONSTITUTION
in 1821 and until the fall of 1822, when he returned to US for promotion
examination, which he passed.
From
James
Forwards a petition from Thomas Johnson, in
behalf of himself, the officers and crew of CONSTITUTION, asking compensation
for the capture by that ship of 1 Tunisian and 2 Neapolitan vessels attempting
to run the blockade of
Roll 99, Vol 3 (March 23 ‑ May 12,
1824)
From
Joseph Dalton,
Inquires, as administrator, if there are
any monies due the now deceased Boatswain Watson, once of CONSTITUTION. [Two Boatswain Watsons, James and Thomas,
served in CONSTITUTION prior to this time.]
Vol 4 (May 13 ‑ July 10, 1824)
From
Francis ______,
Writing for James Williams, formerly of
CONSTITUTION under Captain Stewart, with regard to prize money, of which he has
received only $28 to date. (Was
transferred to CONGRESS when CONSTITUTION returned to the
From
Edward F. Tattnall, House of Representatives, 24 May 1824:
Refers to his brother Lieutenant Tattnall,
who wished orders to CONSTITUTION "just arrived at
From
A. Partridge,
Midshipman [Samuel] Lockwood would like
orders to CONSTITUTION. [Aboard in
1828.]
From
Charles Hay, Chief Clerk, Navy Department, 4 Jun 1824:
Letters from
From
John Heap,
Still hasn't heard from his doctor son
Samuel in CONSTITUTION. Did he not
return with the ship? If not, when can
he be expected? [Dr. Heap was made
consul pro tem at
From
Alex Burton,
Requests passage to
Vol 5 (July 14 ‑ September 17,
1824)
From
C. Coxe,
The President has authorized passage for me
and my family in CONSTITUTION.
[Annotated: no answer, but let "Capt McD" know he will have
passengers.]
From
Henry Wagner,
Returned from
From
William Nordberg, 30 Jul 1824:
Midshipman Joseph Arnold requests transfer
from SPARK to either
From Henry Wagner,
Again asks for pay. [A native New Yorker, he says.]
Roll
100, Vol 6 (September 18 ‑ November
23, 1824)
From
Richard Dennis,
Requests orders to
From
Francis Alexander,
An artist requesting passage to
From
Constantine Smyth,
Requests passage in CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: "I have had so many appls.
for passage in that ship that I have been obligd. to decline granting any other
than those on public service of some kind."]
From
J. Swift,
Requests passage in CONSTITUTION for Robert
W. Wier, an artist. [Denied.]
From
Commodore John Rodgers, BNC, 20 Nov 1824:
Enclosure B: The 1825 routine maintenance
allowance for CONSTITUTION: $15,000.
Vol 7 (November 23 ‑ December 31,
1824)
From
Oliver Holden,
Walter Kary of CONSTITUTION was left sick
ashore at
From
John Heap,
When will Dr. Samuel Heap [once surgeon in
CONSTITUTION and later consul pro tem at
From
James O. Brodhead,
Notes that SecNav had been looking for a
Chaplain to succeed "Mr. McCarty," now in CONSTITUTION. Mrs. McCarty's health requires his presence
at home. [Returned to US in Jul 1825.]
Roll 101, Vol 1 [sic] (January 1 ‑
February 7, 1825)
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, BNC, 11 Jan 1825:
"...salt has been used for the
preservation of the Ships of the
"The usual mode of applying it is to
fill the space between the timbers from the floor heads to the rail..."
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, BNC, 18 Jan 1825:
Annual expenses of a 44‑gun frigate
are:
Pay & subsistence|$53,772
Provisions|$35,952.50
Repairs|$15,000
TOTAL|$104,724.50
Vol 2 (February 8 ‑ March 21, 1825)
From
John Heap,
Is Dr. [Samuel] Heap likely to remain at
From
J. B. Mower,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION for his
Midshipman son; friends with Lieutenant [Elie] Vallette and Purser [John B.]
Timberlake. [Granted.]
Roll 102, Vol 3 (March 22 ‑ May 10,
1825)
From
J. B. Mower,
Requests his son be ordered to
From
James O. Brodhead,
Will Chaplain McCarty be relieved soon?
From
Midshipman James B. Glentworth,
Commodore MacDonough has censured me and
given me permission to return home, but I don't know what I did to deserve
it. I don't want to and will remain here
until I hear from you. [Annotated:
censured for duelling.]
From
Commodore Thomas MacDonough, USS CONSTITUTION, to Midshipman James B. Glentworth, USS
CONSTITUTION, 14 Jan 1825 (enclosure to Midshipman Glentworth's letter, above):
The "transaction" to which you
were a party this morning was "at variance with good order &
discipline." Your services are no
longer wanted; you may go home.
From
Lieutenant S. W. Downing, USS CONSTITUTION to Dr. J. F. Glentworth, 15 Feb
1825:
Your son was unavoidably involved in an
"occurrence" where he had no alternative but to defend his
honor. Commodore MacDonough gave several
persons permission to return home as a result.
I think the Commodore was unnecessarily harsh and have advised your son
to report to
the
Secretary of the Navy. I was not a party
to the occurrence.
From
Dr. J. F. Glentworth,
Permit my son to remain on duty, he did
nothing intentionally wrong.
From
Samuel W. Wetheret,
My late brother‑in‑law Dr.
Donaldson Yates was in CONSTITUTION during her battles with GUERRIERE and
JAVA. He died 29 Oct 1815, before the
authorized medals were distributed. My
son John Donaldson Wetheret is Dr. Yates' closest surviving male relative. Please have the medals delivered via "my
friend" Captain Shubrick.
Vol 4 (May 11 ‑ July 8, 1825)
NOTHING
Roll 103, Vol 141 [sic] (July 9 ‑
August 31, 1825)
NOTHING
Vol 6 [sic] (September 1 ‑October
31, 1825)
From
Gregory White,
Reports the death of William Mires[sic],
former seaman in CONSTITUTION under
Vol 7 (November 1 ‑ December 31,
1825)
From
Chaplain John McCarty,
The news that I might have to return to
CONSTITUTION was unexpected "and most unpleasant intelligence." Would prefer to resign.
From
Nathaniel Cushing,
Made anchors for CONSTITUTION when she was
built.
From
James Ward,
His son James H.Ward an Acting Midshipman
in CONSTITUTION. Believes he is due his
warrant.
From
Senator Henry Clay, 24 Dec 1825:
Dr. Samuel Heap sent in his resignation on
21 Dec in order to be able to take up diplomatic status. [Annotated: accepted.]
Roll 104, Vol 1 [sic] (January 1 ‑
24, 1826)
From
R. Edwards,
Forwards letter to his son in CONSTITUTION.
[Midshipman Alexander H. Edwards.]
From
Surgeon Samuel Jackson, USS CONSTITUTION, to Captain's Clerk Francis l. McCall,
USS ERIE, 2 Nov 1825:
Advises him to go home for his health.
From
O. C. Merrill,
Inquiring after one Sidney Pitt, said to
have enlisted as a Marine in CONSTITUTION in 1811 or 1812, and present in the
JAVA fight. [No record.]
Vol 2 (January 24 ‑ February 17,
1826)
NOTHING
Roll 105, Vol 3 (February 17 ‑
March 28, 1826)
NOTHING
Vol 4 (March 28 ‑ May 1, 1826)
From
M. I. Ingersoll, House of Representatives, 20 Apr 1826:
His brother, Jonathan, has been an Acting
Midshipman in CONSTITUTION and in the
Roll 106, Vol 5 (May 1 ‑ June 6,
1826)
From
Edward F. Tattnall, House of Representatives, 1 May 1826:
Brother Josiah joined CONSTITUTION
"about 22 months" ago, but "has recently returned to the
Vol 6 (June 6 ‑ July 31, 1826)
NOTHING
Roll 107, Vol 151 [sic] (August 1 ‑
October 4, 1826)
From
Board of Naval Commissioners,
Proposes adding a band consisting of 1
master of band (a petty officer) at $18/month, 6 musicians at seaman's pay and
5 at ordinary seaman's pay on each 1st class frigate. [Annotated: approved. Also provided for bands on liners and 2nd
class frigates. Promulgated by circular
letter on 10 Aug.]
From
Quartermaster's Office, HQMC, to 4th Auditor, Treasury, 9 Aug 1826:
Return not yet received from CONSTITUTION's
Purser, so cannot inform you of any balance due James W. Swords.
From
Thomas Walkins,
Served in CONSTITUTION under Captain
Stewart as seaman in victories over CYANE and
Vol 152 (October 5 ‑ November 14,
1826)
NOTHING
Vol 9 [sic] (November 14 ‑ December
20, 1826)
NOTHING
Roll 108, Vol 153 [sic] (January 1 ‑
27, 1827)
From
John Thomson,
John Richards, also known as John Sullivan,
was a seaman killed in CONSTITUTION. His
half brother, James Sullivan, wonders if any wage are due him. [Annotated: monies due him were paid to his
estate administrator on 22 Dec 1826.]
From
Colonel Commandant Archibald Henderson, HQMC, 17 Jan 1827:
Marines assigned to CONSTITUTION as of 31
Aug 1826: 1 1st LT, 3 SGTs, 3 CPLs, 2 Musics, and 42 PVTs (2 under strength).
From
James Beahan,
Understands James Swords died in
CONSTITUTION prior to 15 Oct 1825. Death
certificate signed by Foxhall A. Parker, Addison Searles, and 1stLt Richard T.
Auchmuty, USMC. [Annotated: Swords died
7 Sep 1825 with $33.24 due him.]
Vol 2 [sic] (January 28 ‑ March 16,
1827)
From
William Clarke,
Wishes enclosed letter forwarded to his
stepson Midshipman William Radford in CONSTITUTION.
From
L.[?] E. Swartz,
Wishes enclosed letter forwarded to his son
in CONSTITUTION.
Roll 109, Vol 3 (March 17 ‑ May 17,
1827)
From
John Thomson,
Where will CONSTITUTION arrive when she
returns to the
Vol 4 (May 18 ‑ July 13, 1827)
NOTHING
Roll 110, Vol 157 [sic] (July 14 ‑
August 31, 1827)
From
Timothy Y. Veron,
Was Thomas Rogers in CONSTITUTION as a
carpenter? He has fallen heir to an
estate in
Vol 158 (September 1 ‑ October 31,
1827):
From
Charles Russell,
Was in CONSTITUTION for all her
actions. Injured himself in service, but
hid it at the time and so it was not noted on his discharge. Now has wife and two children to support, and
cannot do hard work. Requests help. [Annotated: "...do not perceive anything
which can be done."]
From
Reverend John Waters, Sr., New Hartford, NY, 6 Sep 1827 [sic]:
My son John, Jr., now aged 20 years and 2
months, is supposed to be in CONSTITUTION as a Private. I allowed him to enlist at New York with the
understanding that he was to be on garrison duty at the Navy Yard, but he
managed to talk his way aboard CYANE, later transferred to NORTH CAROLINA, and
then to CONSTITUTION. Please return him
to
Roll 111, Vol 159 (November 1 ‑
December 31, 1827)
From
Ann Williams,
Mother of Seaman John Williams #1 who
entered CONSTITUTION 10 Aug 1824 wants to know if he is alive. [Annotated: still aboard as of 31 Mar 1827.]
Vol 1 [sic] (January 1 ‑ February
28, 1827 [sic])
From
Peleg Sprague, House of Representatives, 26 Feb 1827:
What is due Seaman
Roll 112, Vol 2 (March 1 ‑ June 30,
1827)
From
E. Phelps, House of Representatives, 2 Mar 1827:
Colonel James Ward of
Vol 3 (July 2 ‑ December 31, 1827)
From
Philip Duval, Jr.,
Has Lieutenant Robert B. Randolph
transferred from
From
Gideon Tomlinson,
Captain W. H. Freeman, USMC, intends to
reapply for brevet rank which he failed to obtain several years past. He became a lieutenant after 18 Jun 1812 and
served in CONSTITUTION the war, receiving "medals." Freeman is a native of
From
His son [Master Commandant Benjamin W.
Booth] was in the Mediterranean with Commodore [Jacob] Jones in CONSTITUTION
when his health failed and he had to return to the
From
J. B. Mower,
Son, Henry K. Mower, is a Midshipman in
CONSTITUTION. Please transfer him to
JAVA or
Roll 113, Vol 1 [sic] (January 2 ‑ 31, 1828)
From
Innes Green, House of Representatives, ? Jan 1828:
Is there a sailor named Richard Sandbank or
Richard Sellsman in CONSTITUTION?
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 29, 1828)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1828)
From
Robert Potts,
Joined CONSTITUTION on 9 Jun 1824 as
Landsman, with the understanding that he would be promoted Ordinary Seaman once
on board. Lieutenant [William M.]
Armstrong finally got Captain [Daniel T.] Patterson to so promote him on 20 Feb
1826. The following November, Patterson
wanted the crew to reship until 18 Aug 1828.
The writer declined as he had learned both his parents had died, and he
wished to return to support his younger brother. The 38 who refused to reship were required to
scrape the ship's sides "brite," scrape the guns, and do all the
"filthy work a bout [sic] the ship" while the rest of the crew enjoyed
regular liberty. Was kept 2 months, 19
days "over my time," then sent on board
Roll 114, Vol 4 (April 1 ‑ 30,
1824)
NOTHING
Vol 5 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1828)
From
Margaret Timberlake,
Wishes to know when and where CONSTITUTION
will arrive so her deceased husband's [Purser John B. Timberlake] effects can
be gotten without loss.
Roll 115, Vol 7 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1828)
From
H. Randall & J. R. Nogdes,
Heirs of Ordinary Seaman Michael Hurley of
CONSTITUTION, who died "five or six months past," ask what wages are
due him. His heirs include a brother,
widow, and children.
From
Samuel M. Fitch,
Former Ordinary Seaman Joseph Arnet arrived
here on foot without having gotten either his discharge or wages. He is one of those whose time expired and who
reshipped "about a year since" to complete the cruise. Please forward pay here.
From
James Fox,
"I have been these last 7 years out in
the Constituscion [sic]..." [A
Boatswain's Mate.]
Vol 8 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1828)
From
Samuel Benson,
Lieutenant W. W. Dulany, USMC, recently
returned in CONSTITUTION. How can I
contact him?
From
Rehead & Spiers, insurance brokers,
Request information on a sailor named James
Vandesteen in CONSTITUTION.
Vol 9 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1828)
From
Pomroy Smith,
Requests information on newly recruited
sailor named William Smith, said to have killed in a fall from a mast head in
CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: Ordinary
Seaman Alfred Smith died 12 Aug 1828. He
was 22, 5' 2 1/4" tall, with brown hair, blue eyes, and fair
complexion. Born
Roll 116, Vol 10 (October 1 ‑ 31,
1828)
NOTHING
Vol 11 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1828)
NOTHING
Vol
12 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1828)
From
Stephen Stillman,
My late brother, Dr. Joseph B. Stillman,
became a Surgeon's Mate in 1820, went to the Mediterranean in
Roll 117, Vol 1 [sic] (January 1 ‑
31, 1829)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1829)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (March 2 ‑ 31, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 118, Vol 4 (April 1 ‑ 30,
1829)
NOTHING
Vol 5 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 119, Vol 6 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1829)
NOTHING
Vol 7 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 120, Vol 8 (August 1 ‑ 31,
1829)
NOTHING
Vol 9 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1829)
From
4th Auditor, Treasury, 2 Sep 1829:
The estate of CONSTITUTION's late Purser,
John B. Timberlake, owes the US $14,373.59.
From
T. H. Gilliss, Acting 4th Auditor,
Forwards a list of officers and
warrant officers showing periods when they were paid higher pay commensurate
with posts they were filling, including:
Mdishipman
John H. Marshall acting as Sailing Master in CONSTITUTION from Jul 1827 to Mar
1828, for which he received $40/mo. and 2 rations.
Roll 121, Vol 10 (October 1 ‑ 31,
1829)
NOTHING
Vol 11 (November 1 ‑ 31, 1829)
NOTHING
Vol 12 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1829)
NOTHING
Vol 187 [sic] (February 3 ‑
December 29, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 122, Vol 188 (January 1 ‑ 31,
1830)
From
James Owens,
"In reading the Navy Commissioners
report on Navy Yards and the result of their observations and enquiries with
respect to the modes of seasoning ship timber, lead me to make a few remarks on
the manner offered by them for the preservation of timber, and also to state
what has come under my observation, during the practice of more than 30 years,
during which time I have [obscured] the superintending and directing the
repairs of all the old ships, sloops, Brigs &c belonging to our Navy, most
of which received a general repair, and some of them hauled up and rebuilt also
the superintending of several new vessels. "The treatment of Live Oak, they say immerse it in water 12 months will render it less liable to split or rent, I cannot perceive it will be of any more use or service to it, as it regards rents or durability, it is naturally a timber that is much rented in the growth, by putting it in the water may prevent it renting any further as long as it kept in the water, but as soon as it is taken out and begins to season it will rent full as much as if it had not been immersed, I should recommend putting it in close sheds, as close nearly as swelling [obscured] use rooms, it would save expense. "White Oak ‑‑ They say let it be immersed or docked about 18 months in fresh or 2 years in salt water, then taken up and sawed into plank the thickness required, [obscured] placed under cover for 2 or 3 years when it will be fit for use. Plank stocks from 12 to 16 inches square will not have the sap extracted in 18 months in fresh water, in salt water the worm will destroy it in 2 years, the best method known by practice is to saw the stock into planks as soon as convenient after the tree is felled, then immerse the plank in fresh water, [obscured] will do if there is no worm for 12 months or a space of time according to the thickness [obscured] for plank from 4 to 6 inches then take it out in Spring or summer, for if taken out in hard frosty weather it will be liable to freeze and split in seasoning, let it be dry before stowing it away, then put it in sheds where a sufficient current of air will pass through; plank so treated will be fit for use in case of emergency in 12 or 18 months; but from 3 to 5 years it will be perfectly seasoned and durable.
"I can state facts in regard to this
manner of preparation from my own experience, and information from others
corresponding to my own practice; I have always found plank water seasoned, as
I call it, more perfectly dry & very hard and the sap thoroughly extracted,
than in any other way of seasoning, consequently more durable; Millens [sic]
and others on the Delaware and its tributary streams who have been in the habit
of building small vessels for their own use, generally water season t heir
timber and plank as above described; further, I was informd [sic] by an aged
Gentleman now living at Princess Anne in Sommerset [sic] County Maryland, that
he built a vessel 50 or 60 [ ? ] then he fluth'd [sic] out his timber
for the frame and sawed the plank, and immersed both in water a sufficient length
of time to extract the sap then had it taken out and perfectly seasoned, he
then commenced building, after his frame was complete, he gave it two or three coats of train oil, his
plank he oild [sic] likewise [ ? ] this vessel, he told me, ran 20 years
without having need of any repairs from decay, and he believed she was then
runing [sic], and if so she was 40 years old.
"I shall now give some account of our
first frigate, The United States, built at Phila launched May [ ? ] in 1800 she
appeared to want caulking and in fact was caulked from the lower Wale up to the
Gun wale when, by accident, the caulking iron broke through a [ ? ], by which
they discovered her to be intirely [sic] rotted from the waters edge up, this
ships plank a great part of it was well seasoned, but the manner of seasoning
was this, it was piled up and salted same as you would bufer [?] other
provisions, and remained in this state for a length of time, then it was hewn
out to the shape proper for putting on the ship, it was put into a large
cistern of boiling pickle and there remained for 24 hours, some of it much
longer, before it was put on. The whole
of her white oak vizt. plank, water ways, knees &c thus treated, not
withstanding it decayed in the short space of 3 years. The Constitution, built at
"Yellow pine, it is said let it be
docked for about 12 months then take it up and saw it to proper sizes for use,
then place under cover for two years.
Yellow pine should not be put into the water at all, if it can be
avoided, but should lay [?], under good coverings, if it is not convenient to
have it sawed into planks previous to its being stowed away which is preferable
to put it in water for 12 months that part floating above water will
decay, while that part of the log under
water will lose its good qualities and the water will tend to extract the
resinous substance in it, which is the life of the timber. I have seen [$?]000 worth of yellow pine
timber lost for ship use, in this Yard by docking about 12 or 18 months; and
perhaps the same quantity, nay more, in other Yards by being piled up and
exposed to the weather. In 1807 or 8 we
sawed [?] a number of pine Beams, I think 3 or 4 setts [sic] Frigates Beams, of
Virginia pine, those Beams were immediately
[ ? ] under cover untill [sic] wanted for use, I put a sett of those
Beams [ ??? ] after they were prepared for putting into the Ship. I had the [ ?? ] and the end well paid with
varnish and spirits of Turpentine [
? ], the ends were bored but not salted as has been the practice since, or lately, this process
added to the care taken of them previously, by covering, not docking, appears
to have had the desired effect, as the beams of the Gun deck of this ship was
[sic] perfectly sound at the ends when she underwent repairs about 3 years and
6 months since only one of them required
repairs, that was one of the main hatch beams and had been sarfed [sic] in the
middle. I am confident this [ ? ] as a
sound at present, if so, it is 20 years since they were put in the ship, a
circumstance unprecedented in any of our ships heretofore the first Beams they had were perfectly
rotten at the ends & both pine and oak, in the space of 4 or 5 years.
"Objections have been made to coarse
grained pine, for my part I can see none, as I seasoned the whole of the Beams
and discovered as many coarse grained as fine, all equally sound, the clamps of
the ships decks are of part [?] coarse and fine grain both kinds equally alike
as to durability we are to take notice
that all the pine plank was payed [ ? ] side toward the Camber the same as the
Beams.
"It must be observed that the work
must be kept perfectly dry, not cram the rooms (space between the timbers) with
Salt to create a dampness which is the destruction of timber and oakum, several
of the berth deck beams of this ship were rotten at the ends, also the clamps
and part of the knees, caused, I have no doubt, by the dampness of the salt
with which her rooms had been filled, for when I came to examine that part of
the ship, I found it perfectly muck wet and rotten, 10 beams on one side and 6
on the other were scarfed at their ends, the clamps entirely ruined, all the
destruction of the wet arising from salt, did not [ ?? ] it had taken hold of
the live oak frame and wale some of which were [ ?? ]. There appears to me a serious contradiction
in regard to the preservation of Ships; it is said to be actually necessary to
Ventilate by conveying as much pure air into the ships as possible this I agree
with, provided the space between the timbers is not cram [sic] with salt to
prevent the circulation through the body of the frame, but the advantage of
ventilation is principally lost not only by the salt but the sills we put in to
sustain the salt prevents the air from circulating even after the salt is
dissolved and evaporated, the evaporation from salt is fresh, I presume, in
damp weather the ships rooms are filled with it, consequently is as injurious
as if she was filled with fog or the evaporation of the marsh.
"Mast timber. It is said let it be immersed in water and
covered with mud and continue in that state untill [sic] it shall be required
for use. I differ in this treatment of
Mast Timber, for the same reasons I have stated respecting pine timber, and
further Mast Timber should be as perfectly seasoned as any timber appertaining
to a ship, but if it remains in the water and mud untill [sic] wanted for use,
how is it possible to make a good mast from unseasoned wet timber?
"There are a number of pieces in a
ships mast, consequently many seams or joints, if a mast be made of unseasoned
timber, the seams will open and become a receptacle for water, which soon
injure and decay the Mast; I have recently seen masts entirely rotten at the
spindle by the water being let in at the joints; mast pieces before putting
together should be perfectly seasoned and well saturated with Varnish and
spirits of Turpentine.
"Spindle Spars. No notice is taken of them except they are
meant to be included in masts timbers, it has been the custom to immerse spruce
to keep them in good order from [ ? ]ing untill [sic] worked for use, yet they
will split when made into ships masts and small spars, yet I believe if they are
cut in proper season when the bark will adhere to the wood and stowed in sheds
that they will make better spars than those taken out of the water, I have
lately seen spruce taken out of the [? ] and made into Top Galt masts and
other small spars [ ? ] split from end to end by seasoning, in fact
condemnable.
"Felling Timber. It is allowed that the winter season is the
proper time for cutting timber, (Oak or Pine) and I presume it is best to cut
it in the decrease of the Moon, cut at this time is not inclined to split, but
when cut on the increase of the Moon, it is very apt to split from the but
[sic] upwards, in Quarters.
"In Demerara and the adjacent country
where they have no change of season, as Winter & Summer, they are obliged
to fell their timber in the decrease of the Moon, otherwise they lose it by
splitting into many parts, and why should not the moon have a similar effect on
our northern forest?
"I have been led to believe it has for
this reason that I had occasion to cut a log not long since into 7 or 8 foot
lengths, it was split at the butt, i had five feet cut to clear the split, it
split again, and again, as far as it was sawnd off, when I was obliged to
desist and resort to another.
Black Walnut. This timber, I am
persuaded would make good plank as wale pieces, &c if it was properly seasoned before it is put on,
the manner of seasoning it as before described for white Oak plank, to sustain
my opinion from practice, when I repaired the Frigate Congress in 1814, I put
one walnut knee to the cut water, the other three being live Oak, it is nearly
20 years since they were put on ‑‑ Walnut makes the handsomest and best Gun
carriages and is more durable than white oak.
"Housing Ships while b[ ? ]sing and
roofing those lying in ordinary, is no doubt, a great benefit to the
preservation of them, the latter has been disapproved of and the roofs taken
off leaving the ships exposed to the Weather!!!
"The effect of different kinds of
water on copper, in ships lying in ordinary, salt water certainly corrodes and
washes the copper much faster than fresh (this is admitted in the report) I
have seen on the bottom of the Sloop of War Wasp, grass from 4 to 5 inches
long, bunches of oysters, some 3 inches long, and barnacles aplenty, all of
which, vegetated and generated in a short space of time, perhaps one season in
salt water (she has been lying at New York or Norfolk)
"The Constitution was hove out at this
Yard in 1812, her copper was completely covered with a strong barnacle about
1/2 an inch long, whether they originated in the Harbour of New York where she
was previously fitted out or not, I cannot pretend to say, she had just
returned from a Voyage to France. I do
not expect they originated at sea but must have been on before she left the "The report further states, But the fact admitted that copper can be preserved longer in fresh water than in salt water, still the contrary is no doubt the case with regard to timber of ships which is universally believed to be more durable in salt than in fresh water. How well this argument holds good with the fact that follows: The North Carolina, Delaware, and Ohio 74s all of them laid up in ordinary in salt water were very much rotten in their planking and side, the Channels, part of water ways, beams & knees, in the span of 3 or 4 years, on the contrary the Potomac lying in fresh water is very sound, this ship was launched from her building (built exposed to the weather) March 1822 we haul'd up under cover, relaunched 16 June 1826 consequently has been lying in fresh water exposed to the weather 3 years & 6 months. Salt water is not only more injurious to copper but also to iron, the iron rust [ ? ] washs [sic] throughout the ship as fast as the copper. The copper of the Delaware was so much washed that part of it was removed [?] before she proceeded to see [sic] (so I am informed) Ships being a few years in [ ? ] actually employed on foreign stations, or other, will wear their copper through in many places, for instance, the Bows, Bilge, Keel and lower part of the rudder, ships return home and are laid up in ordinary in salt water, the worm immediately attacks those exposed parts and do great injury [sic]. This I have taken note of frequently and have seen the lower end of the Rudder entirely destroyed with the after end of the Keel much injured, were they laid up in fresh water this injury would be avoided.
"Filling between the frames and
Caulking. Nothing can be more injurious
to the planking, nor can any thing accelerate the decay of the plank more
rappid [sic], it makes such a solid body of several thicknesses that not one
particle of air is admitted as a preservative of the timber. The buttocks of all ships should be planked
with live oak, as that part of the ship is more subject to decay than any
other, outboard, and more difficult to repair, plank can be had of live oak at
least 35 feet long, it takes steam for bending at and works extraordinary [sic]
well [ ? ] a buttock, I planked the buttock of the Frigate United States with
it and never saw plank bend better, the ceiling forward and aft under the store
rooms should be of live oak. The orlop
Deck Beams, mast steps, combings of the Hatches, cable and bow sprit bitts,
after and fore ends of the Keelsons, should all be of live oak, Deadwood
forward and upper pieces of do. aft.
"A part of your report speaking of
preparing Ships for sea, reads thus 'The duty of preparing ships for service,
is, by the established regulations, committed to the commandants of the Yards,
whose great object seems to be hurry
the equipment, and incur as little expense as possible, thus their preparation
is imperfect, and the Nation has to underwrite a considerable expense in
foreign Ports to obtain the requisite supplies and repairs. The materials for effecting this are
sometimes not to be provided, and the ship being through the cruise in a
crippled state performs the service out and home at the risk of her loss, and
perhaps that of her crew, such a system in place is hazardous, in time of war
dangerous in the extreme, some cases have been brought to the notice of the
Department, in which ships ordered on Voyages of two or three Years have been
so carelessly equipped that the whole cruise might be said to be a series of
dangers and escapes, and then safe return a matter rather to be [
? ]ed and then expected [ ???? ] instance in which it can be done, the officer
who is to command should attend to the equipment of his ship for sea &c'
"In reading the above, it struck me I
might have some allusion to the Brandywine as one of the ships, which ship I
built, this ship was said to be badly fitted and leaky on her passage to France
which would not have been the case if it actually was, which I doubt, had she
been taken care of, after the officer commanding had taken charge of her. I can affirm she was faithfully built, and as
well caulked as a Ship could possibly be, the oakum well Ironed home to the
timber in every seam, with heavy horsing Mallets, her plank was tollerably
[sic] well seasoned, but not much so as to permit any more shrinkage,
especially the larboard side which was the N side on the stocks, but it is not
to be wondered at that some of her seams might have opened a little in her
upper works, she was launched in June 1825, it is customary, indeed absolutely
necessary, that a ships sides and decks should be wet round morning and evening
to prevent the seams from opening and becoming leaky, this was not done with
her the whole summer through and we had scarsely [sic] a good shower of rain in
course [sic] of the summer, she sailed the latter end of September, and I have
every reason to believe that her sides were not wet untill [sic] she got to
sea. Further, this ship was so
inordinately [?] overloaded with ballast that she was Loged [sic], so that at
sea in rough weather, made a fair breach over her filled the Gun Deck and
poured down the Hatch, more went down the Hatches than through ship seams, I am
informed by an intelligent young man who was onboard of her, that [ ??? ] water
almost waist deep on the Gun Deck, shipped forward and rushing aft even into
the Cabin. To show how much too deep the
ship was loaded the Copper forward was six inches under water, when it should
have been one sheet above water, the sheet of copper is 14 inches wide added to
six inches which it was under water makes 20 inches too deep forward, and aft she
was just 14 inches too deep. The
consequence was they had to throw overboard
[ ? ] Ton of 32lb shot to lighten the Ship, and when arrived at Nahant
[sic] they landed 45 cw of pig ballast, making in the whole 64 Ton aft all act.
[sic] over what the ship was calculated to bear. We may infer from this that the ship was not
so badly fitted in the mechanical branches but badly managed in her loading and
trimming.
"The draft of water the
f.
in. f. in. Aft 22 4 Draft water ford. 20 4 [ ? ] when saild 23 6 loaded to when she saild 22
Excess aft 1
2 Excess ‑‑‑ 1
8
",signed, Jas Owens"
[Enclosures]
"From
the [ ? ] I received my appointment as Master Ship Wright in
1810 July, John Adams recaulked
Nov. 1
Hauled up Brig Vixen, rebuilt and launched
her 5th January 1811.
1811 11 January, hauled up Sloop of War Hornet,
rebuilt
and launched her 11 May 1811.
Sloop of War Wasp hove out and refitted May
1811
1811 June, July & August, repaired the wharf, built rolling way for Saw Mill, and sheathed Qr
deck of
1811 Oct 14 hauled up Brig Enterprize rebuilt and launched her 19th February 1812
1812 18th July Commenced Frigate Constellation,
the Ship received a general repair, Viz. new
plank inboard and outboard, new keelson,
Beams,
knees, Decks,&c
28th March, hauled up and rebuilt Gun Boat No
59
5 April Frigate Constitution arrived from
secure & strengthen two new pumps,
and sundry other repairs, sailed in June
25 June hauled up frigate
1813‑14
Frigate
Note.
Those two vessels were destroyed by order of the Government, also publick Buildings
1816 Repaired the [??] building Slip, and
commenced building 74 Gun Ship Columbia [sic],
launched 1 March 1819
1819 Commenced building Frigate Potomac, launched
March 1822 Hauled up on the inclined plane May 1822. Relaunched June 1826
1822 Fri. Brandywine Commenced Building Launched
June 1825
[
? ] Six schooners hove out repaired and coppered, John
1826 Frigate
Frigate Potommac [sic] repaired and
recaulked,
Frigate Congress repaired and recaulked
Signed, Jas Owens"
"Improvements and Inventions
The
Capstan, the improvements on this Machine consist in the Palls [sic] and flutons, and in this,
that the two capstans will work & operate by
backing out the Keys of the Upper Capstan, which is a great advantage because they can be used for seperate [sic] purposes, or by connecting them with the keys they work together [???] The Cat head, the improvement in this consists in the inner end running under the Deck, and giving more room on the forecastle, before my improvement the cat
heaadrun in on the forecastle 8 or 9 feet
thereby taking up much room The carronade skid, the improvement consists in securing it to the side of the ship by a knee plate above, and a saucer or socket below in the port sill, the nose
bolt of the skid,
into the socket makes a complete hinge, the former plan was so loose and defective that the
skid was not (literally speaking) secured at all The Dowling bit, this is an invention of my own for boring of any depth and size from a 2 1/2 inch to 4 1/2 or more, found to be useful in cutting all the holes for
the carronade
breachings, side cocks &c The Gimblet and plug bit attached to it, this instrument is the most useful in boring for spikes, [ ? ] are to have plugs drove down on their heads, as makes the hole
for the spike and cuts the hole for the plug
at the same time, and is an instrument of my own also.
"Signed, Jas Owens"
"Exhibit showing the number of Vessels
repaired Vessels rebuilt, and Vessels built at the Navy Yard,
Frigates
President, Constellation, Congress,
These ships were repaired and fitted for sea
& sailed about the, I allow, end of June following, bound to the coast of
Two large Gun Boats built Winter 1804‑5
launched sailed to join the Squadron.
Sloop of War Wasp. built and launched 21 Apl
1806 fitted and sailed 27 April 1807 Frigate United States, repaired 1807, this Ship received a general repair, viz. Planks inside and out except part of the bottom, under water, received a new
kelson [sic], new decks, including the beams,
excepting a part of the birth [sic] Deck at aft.
Frigate
under wales.
Frigate John Adams, Brig Nautilus, Schooner
Vixen repaired 1808&9 Frigate President, repaired 1808, This ship recd. a thorough repair Viz. new kelson, new ceiling, new beams, knees, decks, plank outside from light water to
Gunwale. Frigate Congress, repaired, commenced Oct. 26 1809, finished spring 1810. this ship underwent a general repair Viz. new kelson, partner top timbers, new
ceiling, Beams, knees, decks, planks
outside three feet below light water.
Repairs commenced in March"
[incomplete]
Vol 189 (February 1 ‑27, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 123, Vol 190 (March 1 ‑31,
1830)
Joseph
T. Spear, John Demsey, Samuel P. White, to "Lawyer
"...a Boy by the Name of Edgar Miller
shipped on board...Constitution...under...Jacob Jones...for Three Years and
which time the Commodore Stopped his Ration of Liquor...which he has not
received any compensation for..."
Another
enclosure shows that Miller was discharged as an Ordinary Seaman, and a
notation lists his period service as "27 February 1821 ‑ 31 May
1824."
Vol 191 (April 1 ‑30, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 124, Vol 192 (May 1 ‑ 31,
1830)
From
Robert Monell, House of Representatives, 21 May 1830:
Forwards a petition for monies due Lewis S.
German, deceased once Midshipman in CONSTITUTION during GUERRIERE and JAVA
fights, later promoted to Lieutenant and transferred to USS SIREN; died in 1819
at Sackett's Harbor, NY.
From
Abraham Moore,
Refers to one Gunner's Mate James Redmond,
since deceased, who was paid off from CONSTITUTION at
Vol 193
(June 1 ‑ July 31, 1830)
NOTHING
Vol 194 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 125, Vol 195 (September 1 ‑
30, 1830)
NOTHING
Vol 196 (October 1 ‑ 30, 1830)
NOTHING
Vol 197 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1830)
NOTHING
Vol 198 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1830)
From
C. Johnson,
"Robert Hasey claims of the United
States $106..[sic] he [sic] says he entered the Service of the United States as
a Taylor [sic] on board the Frigate Constitution commanded by Capt. Campbell in
May 1804 & sailed to the Mediterranean & returned to the United States
in 1805 under the command of Capt. Stewart.
during [sic] the cruise they captured two Greek vessels bound to
[This is terribly confused: CONSTITUTION
sailed to the
Roll 126, Vol 199 (January 1 ‑31,
1831)
NOTHING
Vol 200 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 127, Vol 201 (March 1 ‑ April
30, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 128, Vol 202 (May 1 ‑June 30,
1831)
NOTHING
Roll 129, Vol 203 (July 1 ‑31,
1831)
NOTHING
Vol 204 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1831)
NOTHING
Vol 205 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 130, Vol 206 (October 1 ‑ 31,
1831)
NOTHING
Vol 207 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1831)
NOTHING
Vol 208 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 131, Vol 209 (January 1 ‑ 31,
1832)
NOTHING
Vol 210 (February 1 ‑ 29, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 132, Vol 211 (March 1 ‑ 31,
1832)
From
C. F. Welles, Wyalusing, Bradford Co., Penna., 10 Mar 1832:
"A poor woman who says she is widow of
James Irwin who enlisted on board the Constitution in May or June 1799 for
three years & died before expiration..."
Is there anything due her? Annotation says "no."
Vol 212 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 133, Vol 213 (May 1 ‑ 31,
1832)
NOTHING
Vol 214 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 134, Vol 215 (July 1 ‑ 31,
1832)
NOTHING
Vol 216 (August 1 ‑31, 1832)
NOTHING
Vol 217 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 135, Vol 218 (October 1 ‑31,
1832)
From
Henry Phelps,
"Joseph Haycock late of this Town was
a mariner on board the U. S. Ship Constitution; & in the year 1816 I
administered his Estate & received from Government his wages. Lately I have been informed that there is
prize money due, if so, please to inform me.
He left a widow & one child who are in indigent circumstances."
[Annotated: that Haycock was a Quarter
Gunner on board SIREN, who was captured and died in Dartmoor Prison, 20 Mar
1815. No known prize money.]
Vol 219 (November 1 ‑30, 1832)
From
L. Cowdrey,
"William Harrington formerly a Seaman
in the U. S. Navy on board the Frigate Constitution, and who assisted in the
Capture of the Frigates Guerriere and Java, and the [ ? ] Cyane and
[Annotated: that Harrington cannot be found
on Constitution's rolls.] [He was,
however: ed.]
[Also annotated that Charles W.
Goldsborough was the ship's prize agent for Guerriere and Java, and John
McCauley of
From
Francis O. J. Smith,
"One of the legal heirs of one David
Hutchins, formerly of Kennebunk in this State, has requested me to inquire into
a claim said to be still pending against the Navy Department, in favor of said
heirs, for services rendered by said Hutchins in his life time ‑ he being
now deceased ‑ on board the U. S. Frigate Constitution.
"Hutchins served on board of the
Constitution, for some considerable time ‑ but jumped overboard and was
drowned, when she was on her return to Boston, either in June of 1828, or 1829 ‑
and on the 19th day next [ ? ]ing her arrival at
"Presuming all the records of that
cruise are transmitted to your department, by which it will appear whether such
a claim has been cancelled or not, will you be good enough to cause an
examination to be made; and also to inform me, in case the claim is unsettled,
what authority and evidence will be required of the heirs, to entitle them to
receive it?
"J. B. Winslow, & Joseph Jarvis
are said to be the officers who were then in command of the Constitution.
"The Constitution came to the wharf in
[Annotated: that there is no such name on
CONSTITUTION's rolls.]
Vol 220 (December 1 ‑31, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 136, Vol 221 (January 1 ‑ 31,
1833)
NOTHING
Vol 222 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 137, Vol 223 (March 1 ‑ 31,
1833)
NOTHING
Vol 224 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1833)
From
John F. Sanford,
Understanding that CONSTITUTION is about to
be fitted out for Mediterranean service, asks that his brother, Midshipman
Joseph P. Sanford, be transferred to her from USS EXPERIMENT because there is a
better opportunity for professional development in the larger ship.
Roll 138, Vol 225 (May 1 ‑31, 1833)
NOTHING
Vol 226 (June 1 ‑30, 1833)
From
John Corran,
"being [sic] long anxious to receive
Information whether my Brother James Corran is living or dead as I have red. no
account from him since 1822 or thereabouts he being then in the Service of the
Congress in the Frigate Constitution as a Marine and I confidently trust you
will let me know whether he is living or dead, and if living what part he is in
and what situation and if dead what time and place."
Vol 227 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 139, Vol 228 (August 1 ‑ 31,
1833)
NOTHING
Vol 229 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 140, Vol 230 (October 1 ‑ 31,
1833)
NOTHING
Vol 231 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1833)
NOTHING
Vol 232 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 141, Vol 233 (January 1 ‑ 31,
1834)
NOTHING
Vol 234 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1834)
From
William Patterson,
"It having occurred to me that my long
experiance [sic] with Merchant vessels might be found of some use in the
preservation of Vessels in our Navy, I have taken the liberty of extending you
herewith a circumstantial account of my observations & experiance [sic]
with sea vessels in the Merchant Service, which I wish you to place on file or
record for that purpose should you think it worthy of preservation, believing
that it is the only means known at present for preservation of Vessels ‑‑‑
"I have long wished that the
celebrated Old Iron Sides might be hauled up at the Navy
Yard in Washington, a House built over her, & preserved as an example for
young Officers of the Navy. It would
have more effect than the Success of many Battles at Sea, & Should that
fortunate Ship be continued running she must sooner or later be lost and her fame
perish with her."
"I have the Honor to be with much
respect
Sir Your Obedt Servant
Wm
Patterson"
[Enclosure]
Dry Rot.‑‑‑
"The Dry Rot in Ships of War &
merchant vessels has been the subject of serious and anxious concern.‑‑ Many plans for their preservation from this
evil have been suggested and tried without success. Having, for a long series of years, had
considerable experience as constructor, owner, & employer of merchant
vessels; and, believing that I have succeeded (at all events I have succeeded
to my own satisfaction) in preserving ships of this description, as long as
they are likely to be useful or profitable, I feel prompted to unfold my plans
and my experience to the Navy Department.
"In order that those plans and the
experience may be better understood, I shall commence with my situation and
observations in early life.
"In the year 1766, at a very early
age, I was placed in the Counting‑house of a shipping‑merchant in
"Some few, even at that early period,
made use of salt but a great prejudice existed against this mode, owing to the
belief that it corroded the iron‑fastenings (copper was not then used in
fastening our vessels), and the apprehension that the dampness in a salted
vessel might be injurious to the cargo.
"I became a ship‑owner in the
year 1773, and one of my first considerations was, how I should preserve that
description of property from speedy decay.
Observing that timber, when sunk deep in swamps or in the water, lasted
for ages, I conceived that exclusion from the air and saturating the pores of
the wood with moisture must be the true secret for its preservation. Reflecting on this circumstance, and
perceiving that the wooden floors of ware‑houses, used for the storage of
Bay Salt, were always damp in moist weather, I was led to the conclusion that
the Bay Salt, properly applied, must have the effect of preserving timber:
Under [sic] this impression, I adopted the following plan with all the vessels
I have had built from that time till the present (a period of more than 60
years, as I am still a ship‑owner)‑‑ while building, when the
bends & the bottom planks are on and before sealing [sic], I have caused
three sets of stoppers to be placed fore & aft between all the timbers to
keep the salt in its place. The first
tier of stoppers are placed at the floor heads, the second immediately below
the lower deck beams, and the third between decks just above the air‑streak,
common in all double decked vessels. Air‑streaks
are left above the first & second tiers of stoppers, for the purpose of
adding more salt as the previous supplies of that article settle or are
dissolved. Just before finishing the
sealing of the vessel, the Salt is filled in among all of the timbers, from the
lowest tier of stoppers to the upper deck ‑‑ taking care that the
Salt in the upper tier is well rammed down (if wetted so much the better), for
after the plank shears are laid & secured in their places, the Salt cannot
be replaced without incurring too much trouble and expense.
"Having experienced great difficulty
in preserving li[obscured] timbers (especially transoms) above light‑water
mark I have, of late years, had such pieces bored through the center with an
auger of two inches or two inches and an [sic] half in diameter ‑‑
these holes are filled with wetted Salt and then plugged at both ends before
placing the timbers in the vessel.
"In the forward and after parts of
the vessel, where timbers are so close together that salt cannot be introduced
among them, I have found it necessary to incase the timber and confine the salt
in this way. In one instance, I had all
of the Knees and the steps of the masts in a fine ship boxed in and filled with
Salt: this answered a very [obscured] purpose, but it is too troublesome in
merchant‑vessels.
"I have not only salted my vessels, in
the manner pointed out above, in the first instance, but I have had them
examined carefully every two or three years, and, where the salt has wasted or
settled, a fresh supply has been added.
"In all my experience, I have never
found a defective timber, in vessels thus prepared, and thus taken care of; I
am persuaded that the Dry Rot may be entirely prevented by adopting the above
precautions. As a proof of the effects
of the above mode, I will add that I have two vessels now running, which are
perfectly sound & trust‑worthy ‑‑ one of them is 31 years
old and the other 25, and the only repairs that have ever been given to their
hulls, were the renewal of their waist‑planks of both [sic], and the
quarter deck of one, of them, [sic] This
was not owing to the decay of the plank, but to the circumstance of its being
fastened with Iron: the corrosion of the iron caused openings where it passed
through the wood: had copper fastenings been used, these decays would not have
happened *‑‑ I think all
vessels of war ought to be secured with copper‑fastenings, and no Iron
ought to be used when it can possibly be avoided.
"I have seldom used the Live‑Oak
in the construction of vessels, as it is hard to work, and too heavy for
merchant‑ships: I greatly prefer the timber of our bay ‑‑
White Oak, Locust, cedar, and yellow pine ‑‑ I use the White Oak
for the frames and for the plank from the keel up to and including the
bends. From the bends to the upper deck,
I form the frame of locust and red‑cedar, an equal number of pieces of
either kind, alternately distributed.
The sides, quick‑work, decks, upper beams, and carlins are formed
of the heart of yellow pine. Latterly, I
have fastened the sides and decks with copper.
"My vessels have generally been
employed on long voyages, to the East Indies and
"One of my vessels ran seventeen years
and wore out three sets of sheathing‑copper, before I removed the pine
boards; fearing then, that the main bottom might require some attention in
consequence of the decay of the oakum. I
stripped off the boards and discovered, to my surprise, that the bottom &
seems [sic] were in perfectly good order‑‑ Indeed it appeared as if the water had never
penetrated to the main bottom, and that the sheathing of wood might have
remained on with safety for many years longer.‑‑
"The year before the breaking out of
the late war with
"The only difficulty in the way of its
introduction, arises from the prejudice against the use of Salt under the
impression that it causes too great a degree of moisture in the places allotted
for the accommodation of the officers & crews. I have experienced no inconvenience in this
respect, when the cabins are lined with dry boards, attached to the inner
sealing [sic]. Nor have I, in any
instance, found that any damage has happened to the cargoes, in consequence of
the moisture.
"To overcome any inconvenience that
might be apprehended, it is only necessary to prepare the accommodations for
the officers & men in ships of War by fastening strips of plank an inch
thick to the sides, to which strips of a sheathing of dry boards can be
attached. This will effectually prevent
the escape of the moisture. The northern
and eastern fronts of our country‑houses are sometimes secured in this
manner.
"I have mentioned bay salt as the only
kind that ought to be used for the preservation of vessels, owing to its
quality of giving in moist weather ‑‑ dry stored salt does not possess this quality and is therefore
unsuitable.
"I have some experience with fast
sailing vessels, vulgarly called Baltimore Clippers: I have
witnesses their rise & progress in two wars. Some of them have performed wonders * it
[sic] is only necessary to say that they require great care & judgment in
their construction and equipment, and that they should be commanded by men
trained in their management.
"If it were necessary, in a time of
war, to attempt the destruction of the towns in the West Indies or some of
those in
"*
1.‑‑ The two vessels here mentioned, are both in port at present, & may be examined, if
necessary.
"*
2.‑‑ In numerous instances of this kind, I will only mention
two. the [sic] late Capt. Jeremiah
Yellot, of this place, contributed greatly to the improvement of fast sailing
vessels in the Revolutionary war, & the late war with Great Britain,
proceeded from hence in a fine vessel of his own with a cargo of Flour for
France, when that country was distressed for Bread stuffs, arrived at Bordeaux
when Belisle was blockaded by a large British fleet, being offered a great
prize for his vessel & cargo, provided he would deliver the flour at
Belisle & return with the vessel to Bordeaux. Confident of what he could do, he proceeded
to execute this dangerous project, passed in & out in open day through a fleet of 21 Cruising armed
vessels stationed off the mouth of the entrance of that place, & returned
in safety, where he received payment for vessel & Cargo agreeably to
promise, altho' this vessel was one of
the best of her kind she proved to
be of no use to the purchasers for want of suitable people to conduct
her.
"Capt. Long of this place, in our
late war in a French trader was by accident brought under the guns of a British
frigate, her boat manned to take possession, in the confusion the trader fell
into the wake of the frigate, made sail immediately under the fire of the
frigate, escaped & arrived in safely her port of destination.
"Baltimore, 26th Febry. 1834 Wm Patterson"
[Annotated: "
? ?. I am happy to place his valuable suggestion
in our files.
"I am happy to inform him,
that this Deptmt has for some years adopted the practice of salting all
our public vessels ‑ whether on the Stocks or afloat.
W
"Referd [sic] to Navy
Board for perusal.
W"]
[Note:
William Patterson was born in
Roll
142, Vol 235 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
From
James Ward,
Requests orders for his son, Lieutenant
James H. Ward, to duty in CONSTITUTION, which is said soon to be in commission,
as he already has served four years in her.
Vol 236 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1834)
NOTHING
Vol 237 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
From
Joseph Butler,
Requests information on Master's Mate
William Cutching, said to have been in CONSTITUTION in November 1813.
[Annotated: "Entered 21st Sept 1813. Discharged and paid
5th of April 1814."]
Roll 143, Vol 238 (June 2 ‑ 30,
1834)
From
Representative John Love,
Forewards a request for orders to
CONSTITUTION from "Midshipman Price."
[Not enclosed.]
From
Representative James P. Heath, et al,
Recommends Passed Midshipman John Thomas
McLaughlin for appointment as Sailing Master of CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: will be considered at the
appropriate time.]
From
Benjamin C. Howard,
Recommends Passed Midshipman McLaughlin as
"2nd Sailing Master" of CONSTITUTION.
[Annotated as above.]
Vol 239 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
From
Charles John Steedman,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION for his
midshipman son, Charles. [Young Steedman
in ship in 1837.]
Roll 144, Vol 240 (August 1 ‑ 31,
1834)
From
John D. Howard,
"...There has [sic] been twenty people
who has Examined the Coppering of the Constitution and the
Vol 241 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1834)
From
James K. Polk,
Midshipman William P. Bradburn wishes
orders to
From
Samuel Saunders,
Requests prize values of CYANE and
From
Charles John Steedman,
Again requests orders for his son.
Roll 145, Vol 242 (October 1 ‑ 31,
1834)
From
Dr. Thomas Henderson,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION for his
son, Passed Midshipman J. L. Henderson.
[He didn't get them.]
From
Henry L. Ellsworth,
"Midshipman Oakes" wishes orders
to CONSTITUTION. [Probably Calvin Oakes;
he didn't get them.]
From
Joseph S. Lewis,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION for his son
Passed Midshipman Montgomery Lewis.
[Yes, in 1836.]
Vol 243 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1834)
From
John C. Henshaw,
Who is to command CONSTITUTION? [Annotated: Not decided yet.]
From
Daniel Gyst, USS JAVA, 4 Nov 1834:
Entered the Navy in CONSTITUTION during the
war. Hasn't been home since. Requests discharge to attend to two aging
sisters. [No record.]
From
Dr. William W. Valk,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [He didn't get them.]
From
V. L. Godon,
Ready to sail in CONSTITUTION if so
ordered.
From
Marshal Thomas Eastin, Key West, FL, 15 Nov 1834:
Concerning a prize claim by Joseph B. Tiff,
once a Quarter Gunner in CONSTITUTION.
[True: late 1812‑Jun 1814.]
Vol 244 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
From
Passed Midshipman John T. Williams,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [He didn't get them.]
From
Hon. Theodore Freylinghuysen,
My deceased brother‑in‑law's
son, Midshipman, John F. Mercer, desires orders to CONSTITUTION. [He didn't get
them.]
From
Henry Baldwin,
Surgeon Jones Plummer desires orders to
CONSTITUTION. [He didn't get them.]
From
Hon. R. H. Wilde,
Midshipman Edwin A. Drake, now in USS
VANDALIA, wishes transfer to CONSTITUTION.
[He didn't get them.]
From
Thomas Chilton,
Midshipman Edwin A. Drake, now in VANDALIA,
wishes orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Ezra Vinton,
Has done coopering work at the navy yard
for over 18 years. "...lately I was
called for by Commodore Elliott to make a riding tier of cask [sic] for the
Frigate Constitution, he said he could not allow me more than Two Dollars per
day I objected against using my tools could not for that, he told me that I
might come in and go to work as soon as possable [sic] I could did [sic] and
was paid from 13th Ocr. to the 1st of December, with Three Dollars per Day, my
future wages, thinking that Commodore Elliott had allowed me what I always
had. I took it for granted the last half
months net for me and said there was a mistake in my wages he give orders to
stop 45 dollars besides my tools that I used in making cask [sic] out of old
stores covered with paint and Iron rust has been survayed [sic] and given in
that they are Damaged $30.00 he has objected to paying this..." Help!
[Didn't get any.]
Roll 146, Vol 245 (January 1 ‑ 31,
1835)
From
Hon. George Loyall,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION for Midshipman
George T. Sinclair. [Yes.]
From
Francis H. Ellison,
Son Francis B. Ellison wishes orders to
CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Vol 246 (February 2 ‑ 28, 1835)
From
Hon. G. Y. Lanning,
Dr. Robert Woodworth wishes orders to
CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Hon. William B. Shepard,
Passed Midshipman William T. Muse wishes
orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
William Mead, USS COLUMBUS, to his father, 14 Feb 1835:
Wants a discharge lest he be shipped out
in CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: Discharge
William Wheeler alias William A. Meade.]
From
Hon. William Drayton,
My son would rather sail to the Pacific in
PEACOCK than be ordered to CONSTITUTION.
[Ordered to PEACOCK; then to CONSTITUTION in 1837.]
From
Lieutenant Francis B. Ellison,
Will I get orders to CONSTITUTION? [No.]
From
Hugh Colhoun,
Will my son Lieutenant John Colhoun get
orders to CONSTITUTION as I thought was arranged? [Yes.]
From
Joseph S. Lewis,
My son Passed Midshipman Montgomery Lewis
hasn't yet received his orders to CONSTITUTION.
[Forthcoming.]
Roll 147, Vol 247 (March 2 ‑ 31,
1835)
From
John Forsyth, State Dept., 9 Mar 1835:
The President has ordered CONSTITUTION to
From
J. K. Paulding, Navy Agent,
The $10,000 you sent for CONSTITUTION is
inadequate. Have advanced a total of
$35,000 available to cover Commodore Elliott's requisitions.
From
Daniel D. Brodhead, Navy Agent,
Has received bills totaling $1296.75 for
CONSTITUTION furniture. Shall I pay
them? [Annotated: Allow them because of
ship's diplomatic mission.]
Vol 248 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1835)
From
Seldon Crockett,
Has not been paid for "mahogany &
labor and likewise furniture" installed in CONSTITUTION per Elliott's
orders. The Yard Storekeeper refused to
approve the bill as "the work
exceeded the amount appropriated."
Vol 249 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1835)
NOTHING
Roll 148, Vol 250 (June 1 ‑ 30,
1835)
From
Elisabeth Phillips, 23 Jun 1835:
Black woman. Wants her husband Thomas
Phillips discharged from CONSTITUTION; needed at home.
From
Betsy Candee,
Wants her son Charles Candee discharged
from CONSTITUTION; needed at home. [Done.]
From
John Sadler, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Jun 1835:
Wants discharge; needed at home.
From
William Perry, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Jun 1835:
Wants discharge; needed at home.
From
Senator John M. Clayton,
Wants musician Charles Williams, a reported
deserter, discharged from CONSTITUTION.
From
John Fleming,
Understands there are vacancies in
CONSTITUTION due to Midshipmen requesting detachment. Requests orders to CONSTITUTION for his
son. [Got them.]
From
Thomas Phillips, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Jun 1835:
Reluctantly requests discharge. [Annotated: ordered to be discharged 11 Jul
1835.]
Vol 251 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1835)
From
Agnes Acker,
Wants her son, Benjamin Acker, discharged
from CONSTITUTION; needed at home. [Got
it.]
From
Benjamin Acker, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Jul 1835:
Thanks for discharge.
From
Hon. James Buchanan,
Glad to hear "young Wager" will
be going in CONSTITUTION.
[Midshipman. Annotated: no
promise made.]
From
Mary Fenimore,
Wants husband, Alexander Fenimore,
discharged from CONSTITUTION. "He
is no Seaman."
From
Samuel Bartell,
Son Thomas R. Bartell shipped in
CONSTITUTION "last January" against his wishes. Now not well.
Wants his discharge.
From
Peter Wager,
Wants son Charles employed. Please get him in CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Joseph Haycock, Jr.,
Father Joseph, Sr., was in CONSTITUTION
throughout the war. Taken in
From
James Taylor,
Wants Walter Downie, now in CONSTITUTION,
discharged to support his family.
From
J. H. McClean, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Jul 1835:
Wants his discharge.
From
Dr. George T. Loyall,
Wants his ward, Midshipman George T.
Sinclair in CONSTITUTION, sent to the
From
John J. Morgan,
Master [Sailing Master] James Ferguson in
CONSTITUTION ought to be promoted Lieutenant.
From
Elizabeth Secor,
Wants son, William Secor, discharged from
CONSTITUTION; needed at home.
From
Charles Williams, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Jul 1835:
Reports he is not the musician deserter he
is made out to be: that is someone else of same name. Has exhibited his certificates of faithful
service to local authority to prove his claim.
He is rated a Seaman. He can,
however, play the "Clarionette."
Wants his discharge in order to make a fresh start outside the Navy,
From
Catharine A. Sparks,
Wants husband David Sparks discharged from
CONSTITUTION; needed at home. [No.]
From
James H. Durwald, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Jul 1835:
A Landsman who wishes to be
discharged. [No.]
From
L. Gardinier,
Requests discharge for Seaman Henry Shute
in CONSTITUTION; needed at home. [Done.]
From
James Dearing, USS CONSTITUTION, [27 Jul] 1835:
Wants his discharge.
From
E. L. Childs, 28 Jul 1835:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION for
Midshipman Larkin.
From
William Raymond, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Jul 1835:
Requests discharge after 8 years of
service.
From
S. D. Childs,
Requests discharge of Ordinary Seaman
William P. Codman in CONSTITUTION.
Roll 149, Vol 252 (August 1 ‑ 31,
1835)
From
Hon. Edward Livingston,
Forwards "an application which has
been confided to me by the officers of the Frigate Constitution..." and
intends to address the Secretary further on the subject at a later
period:"
"At a meeting of the Commissioned and
Warrant Officers of the U. S. Ship Constitution held on board for the purpose
of concerting measures to affect the establishment of a
"Whereas: having ever felt the most
ardent desire to prosecute successfully the profession to which we are devoted,
to advance the interest of the Navy, & to perpetuate the commercial
prosperity of our common Country, consigned in part to our Safe Keeping, and taught
by the experience of the past, that neither industry, nor talent, can spare the
advantage offered by early education; earnestly desirous of the means of
securing it, & deploring the inadequacy of the existing system, to
accomplish either the object of the Government, or to meet our heartfelt wishes
for professional instruction ‑‑
And believing as we do, that a respectful representation of the anxious
hopes which the entire Navy have ventured to indulge for so many years, &
to the Consumation of which, they took up the deepest interest, will receive
the consideration to which so excellent an object is entitled, & find from
liberal authorities, that indulgence which is ever acceded to generous
aspiration, and laudable exertions. we
have therefore resolve:‑
1st That we deem education to be of peculiar
importance to the Sea Officer: that amid the progressive improvements in the
arts and sciences, which distinguish the present age, the Military marine would
be most conspicuous if guided in its advances by the lights of education.
2d That we look to the establishment of a Naval
School, as the only means of imparting to the Officers of the Navy, that
elementary istruction [sic], and scientific knowledge, which at the present
day, has become almost indispensible [sic] to the Military Seaman.
3d That from circumstances arising in part, from
professional causes, the Ships Schoolmasters can rarely if ever, impart such
elementary or Scientific Knowledge; or advance the education of the Navy
Officer; and that were the Office, absolutely abolished, of so little actual
utility is it, that no evil would arise therefrom.
4th That believing the expense incurred by
government, in providing Ships Schoolmasters, and professors of Mathematics,
for the benefit of the Junior Officers of the Navy, (and from which little or
no advantage is derived) would liberally sustain a scientific institution, ‑
we would see with pleasure said funds directed to the establishment and Support
of a Naval School.
5th Resolved, that copies of these proceedings be
furnished to the Secretary of the Navy, with a request, that he will lend his
countenance, and support, to our undertaking.
6th Resolved ‑ that we will severally and
collectively, owe our most strenuous exertions, to effect an object so dear to
us; which promises to confer so much dignity upon the Navy, so much honor on our beloved
Country.
7th That a Committee of Ten be appointed to take
charge of the Subject, and conduct it to its final disposition.
8th Resolved that the Secretary of the Navy be
requested to lay a copy of the foregoing resolution before the President of the
9
Resolved that copies of these proceedings be sent to each Naval Station,
Squadron, and U. S. Ship in Commission, with a view to invoke the cooperation
of the Officers belonging thereto.
10 Resolved that a copy of these proceedings be
furnished to the Honbl Edward LIvingston now on board the Constitution.
11 Resolved that a Copy be also Sent to the
Commander of the Ship inviting his aid in furtherance of the object of this
meeting.
12 Resolved that the Committee of Ten shall
consist of the following Gentlemen.
Lieutenant Leven M. Powell
Surgeon Thomas J. Boyd
P. Mid William Radford
Do. Charles Steedman
Do. William T. Muse
Mid R. L. Tilghman
do. Geo. W. Randolph
do. Fras S. Haggerty
do. Fras P. Hoban
do. James B. Lewis
13 Resolved that the foregoing Committee be
directed to ascertain the probable annual expense of the
14 Resolved that the committee be directed to
furnish each member of this meeting with a printed copy of this days
proceedings, & report to them severally, their final proceedings on the
subject.
15th
Resolved that Five hundred copies of the
foregoing preamble and resolutions be printed.
16th Resolved that the Purser of this Ship be
requested to defray the expenses incurred by the Committee in the foregoing
object, the same to be divided prorata among the Officers of the Ship.
17th Resolved that these proceedings be Signed by
the Chairman and Secretary of this meeting and by the members thereof
respectively.
Jno B
Montgomery
Chairman
On
board the
At Sea June 20th 1835. Secretary"
From
Christian Williams, 4 Aug 1835:
His son is the Commodore's Steward in
CONSTITUTION; wants him discharged. (Son
is about 24. Father is illiterate.)
From
James Thornton, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Aug 1835:
Shipped December 1834 at
From
Samuel F. Reed,
Forwards the above letter.
From
Samuel F. Reed,
Requests discharge for James Thornton.
From
Austin C. Williams, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 Aug 1835:
Requests discharge to support mother. [Annotated: Discharge him if he provides a
bonafide substitute.]
From
Charlotte Bissell,
Requests discharge for her near‑sighted
son, Charles D. Bissell, who shipped in December 1834.
From
Lowdewyck H. Mornitz, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Aug 1835:
Wants discharge to return to native
From
Sarah L. Noyes,
Requests discharge of her husband, Landsman
Ebenezer Noyes, 27.
From
Mary Ann McKeever,
Requests the discharge of her ex‑Marine,
Ordinary Seaman husband, William McKeever.
From
William McKeever, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Aug 1835:
Requests his discharge. [Annotated: discharge if convenient.]
From
Senator John M. Clayton,
What have you done about Charles Williams?
From
A. H. Gale,
Mrs Thankful L'Amoureux wants to know if
her son William Raymond has been discharged.
[Commodore Elliott said "he is not worthy of notice."]
From
Hon. Edward Livingston,
Mr. [Midshipman Richard H.] Lowndes, who
was ordered to CONSTITUTION at my request, forwards the enclosed note
explaining why he didn't sail in the ship.
I think it's valid and ask that he be ordered to the next ship going to
the
Vol 253 (September 1 ‑ October 31,
1835)
From
Henry Jackson,
Served in CONSTITUTION 1825‑28 as
Ordinary Seaman. Since being discharged
has been taken up and sold as a slave.
Requests a record check and a letter certifying his status as a
freedman. [Record check bore him out: on
board 1 Sep 1825‑5 Jul 1828, when discharged at
From
Samuel Bartoll,
Requests discharge of his son, Thomas R.
Bartoll, a minor born on 18 Apr 1816.
[Annotated; that it can't be done now that ship has sailed.]
Roll 150, Vol 254 (November 2 ‑
December 31, 1835)
From
Frances Elliott,
Has CONSTITUTION reached the
Roll 151, Vol 255 (January 1 ‑ 31,
1836)
NOTHING
Vol 256 (February 1 ‑ 29, 1836)
From Jacob F. Hoeckley,
The widow of John McDonald, Seaman in
CONSTITUTION in the last war, seeks his prize money for LORD NELSON, SUSANNA,
CYANE, and
Roll 152, Vol 257 (March 1 ‑ 31,
1836)
From
Amos Quimby,
Son Joseph A. Quimby, "between 16 and
17," entered the Marines a year ago and is in CONSTITUTION. Just found out. Please discharge him. [Annotated: discharge authorized, but expense
of return from the
Vol 258 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1836)
From
Amos and Sarah Quimby,
They, the parents of Joseph Austen Quimby,
now in CONSTITUTION, attest that he was born in
From
Passed Midshipman J. W. Revere, USS CONSTITUTION, to the Hon. Churchill C.
Cambreleng,
Asks his endorsement on a request for a 12‑month
leave of absence.
From
Commodore J. D. Elliott, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Apr 1836:
Recommends the more senior Dr. Tinsler of
JOHN ADAMS to succeed the ailing Dr. Boyd in CONSTITUTION instead of Dr. Dodd,
if a replacement is not sent out.
Roll 153, Vol 259 (May 1 ‑ 31,
1836)
From
?,
Frederick L. Huggins of this city enlisted,
as a "common sailor," and is now a yeoman in CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: if a minor will be discharged; if
not, must make his own request for discharge.]
Vol 260 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1836)
From
Amos Quimby,
Still waiting for son to appear. [Annotated: ordered transferred for return
and discharge, 11 Apr.]
From
Hon. John Reid,
Inquiring about Lieutenant George Parker's
medal as a participant in victory over HMS JAVA. [Annotated: let it be delivered to his
widow.]
Roll 154, Vol 261 (July 1 ‑ 30,
1836)
From
Lewis Cass,
The President desires, if possible, that I
visit "during the next season
Vol 262 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1836)
NOTHING
Vol 263 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1836)
NOTHING
Roll 155, Vol 264 (October 1 ‑ 31,
1837)
NOTHING
Vol 265 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1837)
NOTHING
Vol 266 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1836)
From
S. S. Southworth,
Are any monies due the estates of these
men?
John Brown, believed KIA in
CONSTITUTION, Captain Hull.
William Cooper, believed KIA in
CONSTITUTION, Captain Bainbridge.
Patrick Conner, believed KIA in
CONSTITUTION, Captain Bainbridge.
[And others from other ships.]
Roll 156, Vol 267 (January 1 ‑ 31,
1837)
NOTHING
Vol 268 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1837)
NOTHING
Vol 269 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1837)
From
Charles John Steedman,
Requests a European leave of absence for
his son [in CONSTITUTION]. [Annotated:
to commence at end of cruise.]
From
Sergeant Isaac W. Shoemaker, Marine Rendezvous,
Requests discharge. Has served since 1823 in CONSTITUTION and
other ships.
From
E. T. Throop,
Midshipman Montgomery Hunt in UNITED STATES
wishes to come home in CONSTITUTION for promotion examination. [Annotated: CONSTITUTION not due to return
until 1838.]
From Joseph Guien, Marseilles, France, 23 Mar 1837:
Cousin
Joseph Riguie now in CONSTITUTION. Guien
in CONSTITUTION in 1805 and is seeking pay.
Roll 157, Vol 270 (April 1 ‑ 30,
1837)
From
Colonel Anthony Gale, USMC, Burnt Tavern, KY, 3 apr 1837:
Was in CONSTITUTION under John Rodgers as
Senior Marine Officer. Seeks additional
pay as Acting Quarter Master during that time.
[Disallowed.]
From
Samuel Bartoll,
Son Thomas shipped in CONSTITUTION 8 Jan
1835. Wants remuneration as son was
essential to now‑abandoned trade.
[Refused.]
Vol 271 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1837)
From
Vol 272 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1837)
From
William Brent,
Son Lieutenant Thomas W. Brent, now in
CONSTITUTION, wishes leave in
From
Stephen Porter,
Brother Daniel served in CONSTITUTION and
From
Samuel Howard,
Served in CONSTITUTION under
"Commodore McDonnell" before the War of 1812. Seeks pension. [Served under Commodore Thomas Macdonough,
1824‑5.]
Roll 158, Vol 273 (July 1 ‑ 31,
1837)
From
Enoch Titcomb,
When was Orange Gleason discharged from
CONSTITUTION and the Navy? He was in her
when she took "scian &
From
Philip Ritter,
On 23 Jul 1835, "an Officer from the
U. States Ship Constitution, then ready for sea, came on board [the schooner
MARY JANE, William Burrows, 2nd Mate] in search of a man by the name of Philip
Noble who said he was a deserter from that Ship and asked permission to search
for him. Upon hearing the man's name I asked
the Officer to go down with me into the hold where the man had hid under some
sails and the Officer pulled him out & recognized him as the man he was in
search of & took him on board of the ship." The Officer was the 2nd Lt. & offered me
a reward. as we then were going to sea,
I could not go with him to collect it.
May I have it now? [Annotated: no
information in the Department. Tell him
to locate officer.]
From
James Ronaldson,
"Mathematician" Martin Roche is
now in CONSTITUTION. Give him a shore
assignment as he suffers from rheumatism.
Vol 274 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1837)
From
Edward Everett,
Has received from Commodore Elliott notice
of the death of his kinsman, Chaplain James Everett, in CONSTITUTION.
From
Henry Middleton,
Asks a furlough for his son, Midshipman
Edward Middleton, on CONSTITUTION.
From
Richard Willing,
Asks leave of absence for nephew, Dr.
George Clymer, acting Surgeon in CONSTITUTION.
[Annotated: six months leave granted.]
From
Mary S. Stubbs,
Husband Private John Webster Stubbs
transferred from
From
Asahel Cady,
Son Cyrel [sic] now in CONSTITUTION as a
sailor, but also uses name "John Cady." Wants him discharged.
Roll 159, Vol 275 (September 1 ‑
30, 1837)
From
Senator T. Johnston, 8 Sep 1837:
Please grant leave of absence to
[Midshipman] J[ohn] W. Bryce in CONSTITUTION at end of cruise.
Enclosed letter from Bryce says
"Comodr. Elliott is not a general favorite with his officers."
From
Hon. Joseph C. Noyes,
Asks for information on Seaman Jeremiah
Gray, Jr., of Deer Isle, Maine, who died in CONSTITUTION during the present
cruise. Some money is believed due. [Annotated: not in records.]
Vol 276 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1837)
NOTHING
Roll 160, Vol 277 (November 1 ‑ 30,
1837)
From
Samuel Wall and Patrick Doyle,
They enlisted in CONSTITUTION in 1803 and
returned from the Mediterranean in PRESIDENT in 1805; discharged at
From
William B. Clymer,
His brother, Assistant Surgeon George
Clymer, wishes a letter of credit so he may draw his pay while on leave of
absence in
Vol 278 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1837)
NOTHING
Roll 161, Vol 279 (January 1 ‑ 31,
1838)
NOTHING
Vol 280 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1838)
From
Thomas H. Blount,
Asks that his "young relative"
[Midshipman] Will. B. Muse in CONSTITUTION be granted leave to attend dying
brother.
Vol 281 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1838)
From
John King,
Requests that any pay due his 21‑year‑old
son Benjamin, enlisted as a boy in CONSTITUTION, be paid to him when the lad is
discharged. [Annotated: apply to ship's
Purser.]
From
Thomas J. Falconer,
A man named David Dibias has been arrested
here as a suspected runaway slave. Can
you confirm his claim of naval service as an officer's servant in CONSTITUTION
under Charles Stewart? Born at
Roll 162, Vol 282 (April 1 ‑ 30,
1838)
From
A. Pierce,
An official letter in his possession says
that Black Henry Jackson served as an Ordinary Seaman in CONSTITUTION, 1 Sep
1825‑5 Jul 1828. He has been
enslaved for several years, but claims to be a freeman. Are, or were, slaves enlisted in the USN as
Ordinary Seamen?
Vol 283 (May 1 ‑ 30, 1838)
NOTHING
Vol 284 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1838)
NOTHING
Roll 163, Vol 285 (July 1 ‑ 31,
1838)
From
Sarah A. Hunter,
Asks discharge of her son, PVT John
Dowling, from CONSTITUTION.
Vol 286 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1838)
From
James Buchanan,
John GiIlmore, Jr., is a PVT in
CONSTITUTION. His father wishes his
discharge as soon as the ship has returned.
[Annotated: so ordered.]
From
Jesse Morgan,
John Johnson of this city enlisted in the
USN in Sep 1812. Soon after, was
transferred to CONSTITUTION under Comr Bainbridge and remained in her 6 or 8
months. Never paid nor received JAVA
prize money. His widow has asked me to
inquire.
From
Philip H. Ritter,
Restates claim to reward for turning over
deserter from CONSTITUTION found in schooner MARY JANE, then outward bound past
Governor's Island, NY, on a sealing voyage.
He was 2nd Mate of the schooner.
[Annotated: no information at the Department.]
Roll 164, Vol 287 (September 1 ‑
30, 1838)
From
Boatswain Robert Whittaker, who "came
out with me," is recommended for duty in a line of battle ship.
From
William D. Clymer,
His brother, Dr. George Clymer, requests a
6‑month extension on his leave as the original period was not permitted
to begin it until 10 Jun 1838 and the studies he hoped to pursue in
From Thomas J. Parsons,
John Seaver of this place says he shipped
about Apr 1799 in GENERAL GREENE, and later transferred to CONSTITUTION under
"Talbert" in the
From
W. H. Maxwell,
Requests orders for nephew Maxwell Woodhull
to CONSTITUTION or
From
William M. Price,
Lieutenant Oscar Bullus wishes orders from
CONSTITUTION, where he has been for 2 1/2 years. [Annotated: Bullus given 3 months leave when
ship returned.]
From
Requests orders for his son to either
CONSTITUTION or MACEDONIAN.
Vol 288 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1838)
From
William Ferson,
The son of Joseph Haycock of this city, a
Quarter Gunner in CONSTITUTION in 1812‑14 is asking if any prize money is
due his father. [Annotated: Advise that
Charles W. Goldsborough was prize agent for GUERRIERE and JAVA, and John
McCauley for CYANE.]
Roll 165, Vol 289 (November 1 ‑ 30,
1838)
From
David D. Wagner,
Young friend Midshipman Edward A. Barnett
wishes orders to CONSTITUTION or
From
Lieutenant G. F. Pearson,
How do you want me to dispose of the saber ‑‑
one of two presented to Commodore Elliott and myself by Mahemet Ali ‑‑
now in my possession? [Annotated: keep
it to preclude a diplomatic incident by attempting its return.]
From
Peter Wager,
Son Charles, a Midshipman in CONSTITUTION
on her recent cruise, I desire to go back to sea immediately. [Annotated: ordered to MACEDONIAN.]
From
Lewis Cass, Jr.,
In CONSTITUTION is a collection of antiques
and curiosities my father and I procured in
From
Lieutenant C. H. McBlair,
I am credibly informed that, to date, the
Government has not received an official and authentic statement regarding the
animals brought home in CONSTITUTION. I
do so now reluctantly but from a sense of duty.
First, last May, on the day before
CONSTITUTION sailed from Port Mahon "about twenty" horses and asses
were embarked on the gun deck.
Second, one died on the voyage to Hampton
Roads.
Third, a number of the crew were
dispossessed of their "usual sleeping berths" to make room for them.
Fourth, "a large and important part of
the battery was so encumbered by the presence of the animals that the force and
efficiency of the ship was materially impaired and she was consequently reduced
to a condition that rendered her unequal to sustain the honor of the flag in an
emergency."
From
H. D. Gregory,
Assistant Surgeon Godon of Philadelphia
returned in CONSTITUTION after 3 years in the
From
Thomas M. Dickey,
Enlisted his 14‑year‑old son
Thomas in CONSTITUTION in 1835; discharged at
From
David Paul Brown,
Passed Midshipman Charles Crillon Barton
has contacted me regarding the "cruel and barbarous treatment to which he
was subjected by Captain Jesse D. Elliott." on CONSTITUTION's recent
cruise. Please advise on the status of
the reported pending court martial.
From
Simmons & Gay, Attys,
James Gallagher and James Lowry enlisted in
the USMC early in 1835 at
Roll 166, Vol 291 (January 1 ‑
February 28, 1839)
From
William Yeaton,
I understand my nephew, Midshipman Bolton
S. Porter, has orders to CONSTITUTION, in which he also recently made a Mediterranean
cruise. He has yet to receive his
warrant; can that be issued before he next sails?
From
William Bacon,
Samuel B. Ray, about 6 years ago last
August, went aboard CONSTITUTION as Carpenter or Carpenter's mate. When the ship returned "last fall,"
his family learned he was killed in a fall from a masthead. What wages might be due his estate?
From
Representative Charles Naylor,
The "Special Committee in the case of
Commo J. D. Elliott," created by resolution on 14 Feb and chaired by
Naylor, canceled its investigation on 22 Feb due to lack of time until the end
of session.
From
Hon. William A. Hastings,
Was Timothy B. Twitchell a Seaman under
Jesse D. Elliott in CONSTITUTION? What
is his current status?
Roll 167, Vol 292 (March 1 ‑ April
30, 1839)
From
A. T. Dayton, 4th Auditor's Office,
Then Lieutenant Boerum on 31 Jul 1835 was
ordered to CONSTITUTION. Later that year,
Commodore Elliott ordered him to command SHARK.
In Nov 1836, Elliott ordered him back to CONSTITUTION as "Flag
Captain," which duty he performed until 18 Aug 1838. Promoted Commander 8 Feb 1838. No Flag Captain is authorized for a squadron
the size Elliott's was.
From
Ann A. Pinkney,
Thanks for appointing her son to
CONSTITUTION. Getting him ready to go.
From
Amos Quimby,
His accountant son, about 21, was 2 years
in CONSTITUTION on her last cruise.
Resides at home in
From
Seaman Lewis A. Bussart, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Apr 1839:
Wants discharge due to deafness. [May be using name John Lewis.]
Roll 168, Vol 293 (May 1 ‑ July 31,
1839)
From
Mary Ann Ontis Harvey,
Son Eliphalet Ontis, 20 years old last 27
Nov, shipped in CONSTITUTION without her consent; discharge him.
From
Lieutenant Colonel Thomas FitzGerald, Port
Midshipman C. B. S. Porter called on me on
10 Jun 1838 under orders from Commodore Elliott to all his officers to pay all
their bills by 6 PM that day or be turned out of the ship. Porter said he couldn't get the money he owed
and pleaded that his IOU be accepted for later payment so he wouldn't be
ruined. That was done on good
faith. Today, I received notice that
payment had been refused. "I trust
you will interfere.." [Annotated:
Porter now in CONSTITUTION on way to Pacific.
Direct him to pay up; copy to the Colonel.]
From
Sarah Hunter,
Son, John Darling, joined USMC "about
four years ago" and went in CONSTITUTION.
After 3 years, 5 months, returned in UNITED STATES, then reportedly
deserted. He came home. He was under 21 when he enlisted without
consent. Please just discharge him. [Annotated: the Dept. will not interfere at
this time.]
From
Dr. S. Rassage,
William Murtland came to
Roll 169, Vol 295 [sic] (August 1 ‑
31, 1839)
From
Dr. George T. Fenwick, Solitaire, VA, 25 Aug 1839:
Ailing wife of Lieutenant William F. Kennan
in CONSTITUTION needs him home.
[Annotated:
Vol 296 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1839)
NOTHING
Vol 297 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1839)
NOTHING
Roll 170, Vol 298 (November 1 ‑ 30,
1839)
NOTHING
Vol 299 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1839)
NOTHING
Roll 171, Vol 300 (January 1 ‑ 31,
1840):
From
Richard W. Habersham,
The wife of CONSTITUTION's captain, Mrs. Turner,
wishes to know if there will be "an early opportunity" to forward
letters to him. [Annotated: will forward
with pleasure.]
Vol 301 (February 1 ‑ 29, 1840)
From
Missionary W. H. Norris,
Recent arrivals from the
From Joseph Guier, Marseilles, France, 28 Feb 1840:
After
fighting in FRS NEPTUN at Trafalgar and going ashore at
From
Eliza Parker
Requests the JAVA medal authorized for the
late Lieutenant George Parker.
Roll 172, Vol 302 (March 1 ‑ 31,
1840)
From
4th Auditor, Treasury, 13 Mar 1840:
Reprises for a Congressman the denial of
Commander Boerum's claim for pay as CONSTITUTION's "Flag Captain."
Vol 303 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1840)
From
Frederick Crofton,
Will my son, Frederick, be returned from
CONSTITUTION this year? [Annotated: did
not return in
Roll 173, Vol 304 (May 1 ‑ 31,
1840)
From Powhatan Ellis,
A recent letter from Commodore Claxton
reported all well in CONSTITUTION.
Vol 305 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1840)
NOTHING
Roll 174, Vol 306 (July 1 ‑ 31,
1840)
From
Ph. Dickerson, ? , 16 Jul 1840:
Midshipman English is "anxious"
for orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Nicholas P. Morris,
Requests information on any arrearages due
the estate of Lieutenant Christopher Morris of CONSTITUTION during the War of
1812. Morris died on duty 13 Jun
1816. [No such officer.]
Vol 307 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1840)
From William Davidson,
His father, also William, was in
CONSTITUTION during the War of 1812, and died shortly thereafter. Is any prize money due his estate? [Annotated: not on rolls during GUERRIERE or
JAVA fight, maybe that with CYANE and
From
Edward Bradshaw,
Did Landsman James Briggs fall overboard
from CONSTITUTION and drown?
Roll
175, Vol 309 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1840)
From
O. K. Barell,
Is William Sevidge on CONSTITUTION's
rolls? [No.]
From
William Davidson, Jr.,
Received your 11 Aug letter saying father's
name not on CONSTITUTION' rolls. I know
he was there for the GUERRIERE and JAVA fights, and was discharged by Commodore
Bainbridge. I think he was rated Cooper.
Could he have been a Marine?
[Davidson at least an Ordinary Seaman sand present for both fights.]
Vol 310 (November 2 ‑ 30, 1840)
NOTHING
Vol 311 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1840)
NOTHING
Roll 176, Vol 312 (January 1 ‑ 31,
1841)
NOTHING
Vol 313 (February 1 ‑ 27, 1841)
NOTHING
Vol 314 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1841)
From
S. S. Southworth,
Private Gardner Turner is believed to have
been with Commodore Hull in 1812. He was
last known to have been ordered to the Lakes in 1814. He was a native of
From
Joseph Butters,
William Walters was in CONSTITUTION during
the GUERRIERE and JAVA fights. Is he due
any money? [True, he was.]
Roll 177, Vol 315 (April 1 ‑ 30,
1841)
NOTHING
Vol 316 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1841)
From
James Bergen,
"Mr. Thomas Goin, in the year 1834,
fitted up a vessel called 'The Whig Frigate
Constitution,'
measuring nineteen feet keel fully rigged, armed and equipped - to go through
the great political campaign which has regenerated our country.-- It has occurred to Mr. Goin & his friends
that as [sic] innumerable host of our citizens from the West have never seen a
full rigged ship of War - a minature [sic] representation would be serviceable
to place in a convenient public place near
your office, at the Capitol, or at your own residence.- She cost $1800.-- And requires but a trifling outlay to make
her perfect. This Frigate is well known
at
"Mr. Goin had the honor of presenting
to one your predecessors, Mr. Dickerson, the model of a Corvette from the hand
of the great Naval Architect Henry Eckford, which you will still find near your
de[partment?]. It will afford you an
idea of the model frigate herein alluded to.--
Mr. Goin's warmest feelings [obscure] enlisted for the well being of the
Naval school & Mr. Eckford's model was intended for a school ship & at
some future day she will attract great attention from Congress.--
"In order to witness the zeal of my
friend Mr. Goin I have taken the liberty to foreard herwith a copy of a pamphlet
- an order from the Common Council of New York - and a copy of the New York Sun
containing affidavits as to the Navy school.
To which I particularly crave your attention." [Annotated: "..no funds available at the
Department for defraying the expense of the …removal."]
Roll 178, Vol 317 (June 1 ‑ 30,
1841)
From
James Reyburn,
On behalf of his widow, requests the return
of Commodore Claxton's remains to the
Vol 318 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1841)
NOTHING
Roll 179, Vol 319 (August 1 ‑ 31,
1841)
NOTHING
Vol 320
(September 1 ‑ 30, 1841)
NOTHING
Roll 180, Vol 321 (October 1 ‑ 31,
1841)
From
G. Harrison Lynch,
Please forward my brother Dominick's
commission as Lieutenant to him in the Pacific.
Vol 322 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1841)
From
Roger Jones,
Requests orders for his son Midshipman
Jones to the
From
Surgeon Thomas Dillard, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Nov 1841:
Apprentice boy Charles Seybart "is
affected with a chronic cutaneous affection [sic] of the palms of his hands"
which is exacerbated by salt water.
Recommend his discharge.
[Annotated: discharge authorized 10 Nov 1841.]
From
Fernando Wood, [?], 13 Nov 1841:
The mother of Apprentice Thomas A. Tifft of
CONSTITUTION requests his discharge; has been in service over 2 years. [Annotated: some sufficient reason must be
assigned.]
From
Victor A. Sartori,
Brother, Lieutenant L. C. Sartori of
CONSTITUTION, has been suffering rheumatism and is presently unable to write an
acknowledgement to the receipt of his commission.
From
Request a month's leave for Apprentice Job
Winant Parsalls of CONSTITUTION.
[Annotated: leave may be granted, then report to
From
Ann Cochran,
I thought my son, Seaman William Cochran,
who sailed 3 years ago in SHARK, was coming home in CONSTITUTION, but he
didn't. Any information?
From
Francis Doherty,
Brother Nathaniel Douglass was drafted from
From
Hugh Cassady,
Nephew Edward Cooper, just returned in
CONSTITUTION and transferred to
From
Peter Brown,
The mother of Boy Thomas A. Tifft, recently
transferred from CONSTITUTION to
Roll 181, Vol 323 (December 1 ‑ 31,
1841)
From
Ann A. Pinkney,
Believes her son would be honorably
acquitted by a court martial.
[Annotated: will await further information from her.]
From
R. C. Nicholas,
Speaks of a legal attachment put on payment
of salaries by Purser McKean Buchanan to CONSTITUTION's Marine Guard since her
return. This has happened before; will
investigate and report.
From
Thomas Mullen,
Requests forgiveness for his son's
thoughtless act of desertion from CONSTITUTION and his discharge. [Annotated: hasn't he been discharged?]
From
R. C. Nicholas,
The attachments in question are
"common law attachments" and were made on 15 Nov. They are illegal, being without jurisdiction,
and I will have all superseded.
From
Thomas Slater,
Served in CONSTITUTION 5 Mar 1839 until her
return "last October" as Acting Orderly Sergeant. Charges First Lieutenant Jabez C. Rich with
unauthorized opening of his mail while at
Roll 182, Vol 324 (January 1 ‑ 31,
1842)
From
J. G. Martin,
Nephew Private Peter Armould, recently
returned in CONSTITUTION from the Pacific, should be discharged to care for his
widowed mother. [Annotated: done Jan
13.]
Vol 325 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1842)
NOTHING
Roll 183, Vol 326 (March 1 ‑ 31,
1842)
From
Abraham Thurston,
Son William C. Thurston, a lad of 15, was
in CONSTITUTION. His pay bill of
exchange is not readily negotiable here.
Please issue one that is.
[Annotated: arrange it.]
Vol 327 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1842)
From
Sophia Sproston, [?] , 7 Apr 1842:
When I last heard from my brother, Surgeon
George Sproston, about 22 years ago, I believe he was in CONSTITUTION in the
Roll 184, Vol 328 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1842)
From
Charles Murray,
Former Sergeant Thomas Slater of
CONSTITUTION has filed an affidavit that he did not sign the muster roll of
Purser Buchanan. He wants it opened and
examined for error. Please authorize it.
From
Charles Murray,
Will not prosecute, but thinks the
Department ought to investigate Slater's complaint. [Annotated: get explanations.]
From
Powhatan Ellis,
Reports turning over a pair of pistols
(Government property) borrowed from the late Commodore Claxton while in
CONSTITUTION to the Captain of USS ONTARIO.
Vol 329 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1842)
From
Apprentices John S. Davis, E. J. H. Runch, and John J. Lott, USS PENNSYLVANIA,
10 Jun 1842:
Request orders to CONSTITUTION, the
"Pride of the Nation."
From
John Leeds Kerr,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION for
Apprentice Charles T. Bullen.
[Annotated: let him go.]
Roll 185, Vol 330 (July 1 ‑ 31,
1842)
From
William Bullen,
His son, C. T. Bullen, wants orders to
CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: Shubrick told
to do.]
From
Samuel Millikan,
Brother, PVT Richard Millikan, newly
enlisted, is, he thinks, about to enter CONSTITUTION," bound up the
Mediterranean to relieve the Brandywine," sailing to
From
Apprentice brother, now in
From
Cornelius C. Cuyler,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION for
Apprentice Alfred Thiebault. [Annotated:
"The Constitution is not going to the
Vol 331 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1842)
From
J. W. Murdaugh,
A Marine, now 16 or 17, is in CONSTITUTION
without parental permission. Name: John
Brown. Discharge requested.
From
Seth Ames,
Mrs. Louisa Stewart (or Stuart) wants to
know if her son Charles returned in CONSTITUTION in 1841. What is his current status?
From
Mrs. Ann [Ontis]
Has CONSTITUTION returned? Was Eliphlet [sic] S. Ontis [sic] aboard?
Roll 186, Vol 332 (September 1 ‑
14, 1842)
From
Sarah G. Price,
Her grandson, Apprentice John F. Johnston,
wants orders to CONSTITUTION from
From
Nancy Hendricks,
Her son, Gilbert Daniels, shipped in
CONSTITUTION "last May." Has
since had yellow fever and wishes discharge.
Will be 20 on 13 Sep.
From
Harriet Redgraves, North East, MD, 6 & 14 Sep 1842:
Son Samuel Redgraves is in CONSTITUTION;
just 18 last Oct. Requests discharge.
From Mary Coarts,
Brother Charles Coarts wishes orders to
CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: "Let him
be ordered & so inform her" and "her complement is already
exceeded & there is no room for him on board."]
From
Ann Smith,
Son Charles Smith in CONSTITUTION she wants
discharged to support her. [Annotated:
refused.]
From
Sarah E. Henderson, Churchville, MD, 13 Sep 1842:
Wants discharge of only son George W.
Henderson from CONSTITUTION. He has been
in service 6 months.
Vol 333 (September 15 ‑ 30, 1842)
From
G. K. Howard, Elkton, MD, 17 Sep 1842:
Requests discharge of William Reynolds in
CONSTITUTION.
From
Captain Foxall A. Parker, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Sep 1842:
Landsman William Reynolds transferred to
this ship last June from
From
Marther [sic] Zane,
Requests discharge of son Henry W. Zane
from CONSTITUTION.
From
Apprentice Samuel H. Meade, USS PENNSYLVANIA, 26 Sep 1842:
Wants transfer to CONSTITUTION. All the other apprentices once in
Roll 187, Vol 334 (October 1 ‑ 14,
1842)
From
John Peterson, Fortress
Apprentice George A. Hoyle, 15, in
CONSTITUTION, wants his discharge.
From
Landsman William Ford, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Oct 1842:
Shipped 3 months ago and wants his discharge. [Annotated: discharge authorized 7 Oct.]
From
Nathaniel B. Borden,
John Saunders thinks his brother,
From
Thomas White, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Oct 1843:
Requests his discharge. [Annotated: done 7 Oct.]
From
John & Margaret Devlin,
Their son Bernard Devlin(or Devane), now in
CONSTITUTION, has been gone 3 years.
Requests his discharge.
[Annotated: done 13 Oct.]
From
Mary Drury,
Request son James Drury, now in
CONSTITUTION, be discharged. [Annotated:
no sufficient reason.]
From
Ann Royal,
Son Drummer John Brown in CONSTITUTION
wants orders to
From
Juliana Chamberlain,
Wants orders for her son George from
From
Landsman George W. Henderson, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Oct 1842:
Requests discharge. [Annotated: done 17 Oct.]
Vol 335 (October 15‑ 31, 1842)
From
Sarah Henderson,
Son George W. Henderson shipped on 4 Mar
42. "Just arrived at age," but
not very bright Requests his
discharge. [Annotated: done 18 Oct.]
From
George W. F. Lauck,
Henry E. Niel of CONSTITUTION wants his
discharge. An orphan, he has been in
service 15 months and is in poor health.
[Annotated: Discharge.]
From
Jane McIntyre,
Only child, Isaac Lee Marshall is an
Ordinary Seaman in CONSTITUTION. Request
his discharge.
From
George Am________, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Oct 1841:
A 19‑year‑old German in poor
health, he wants his discharge.
[Annotated: refused.]
From
Charles Linds, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Oct 1842:
Another German who wants his
discharge. Says he, too, is in poor
health; doesn't speak English.
[Annotate: Discharge. "Where
was he shipped?"]
Roll 188, Vol 336 (November 1 ‑ 30,
1842)
From
Luke Kelso,
Requests discharge for son Lewis Kelso in
CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: insufficient
reasons.]
Vol 337 (December 1 ‑ 14, 1842)
From
Samuel B. Fowler,
Son William Fowler, to whom you granted a
discharge last 4 Nov, has yet to be released from CONSTITUTION.
From
Landsman Miles M. Abbett [sic], USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Dec 1842:
Wants discharge to rejoin wife and children
at
From
Seth Daniels, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Dec 1842:
Requests discharge due to poor health. [Annotated: done 19 Dec.]
From
Landsman William Morehead, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Dec 1842:
Requests discharge due to poor health. [Annotated: done 19 Dec.]
From
Albert G. McComas,
Requests discharge for Robert McComas in
CONSTITUTION.
From
Elizabeth Root,
Requests discharge for 23‑year‑old
son John Root who shipped last summer and is in CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: he must apply.]
Vol 338 (December 15 ‑ 31, 1842)
From
Mary Ann Marshall,
Requests discharge for her 20‑year‑old
ill Landsman only son James H. [?]
From
Landsman George Meister, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Dec 1842:
A native German, he requests
discharge. [Annotated: done 28 Dec.]
From
Landsman John F. Howard, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Dec 1842:
An English immigrant, he requests his
discharge. [Annotated: done 28 Dec.]
From
William K. Boyle,
Requests leave for Apprentice son Benjamin
Boyle in CONSTITUTION to see his dying grandmother. [Annotated: Com K. [E. P. Kennedy] to do as
he pleases.]
From Landsman William Schaper, USS CONSTITUTION,
27 Dec 1842:
Requests his discharge after 8 months in
service. [Annotated: done 31 Dec.]
From
Daniel Stiltz,
Wants his son, Apprentice William Stiltz,
given leave. [Annotated: refer to Com K.
[E. P. Kennedy].]
From
David Stayton, Washington, DC, 29 Dec 1842:
Requests discharge of son Landsman James
Stayton in CONSTITUTION. Born 4 Sep
1823. [Annotated: discharged see
Shubrick Letter of 5th Jany.]
From
Charles F. Mayer, Baltimore, MD, 29 Dec 1842:
The wife of George Rickter [sic] requests
his discharge from CONSTITUTION; has 2 children. He shipped under the name "George
Rose." [Annotated: insufficient
reason. Arrange for allotment ticket.]
From
Noah Miles [Mills?], Leroy, PA, 30 Dec 1842:
I last heard my son was in CONSTITUTION at
Norfolk. [Annotated: dischgd 6 Jany.]
Roll 189, Vol 339 (January 1 ‑
December 31, 1842)
From
Rev. Samuel Aaron, Norristown, PA, 1 Jan 1842:
Captain F. A. Parker still owes me about
$250 for the instruction and maintenance of his sons William and LeRay at my
boarding school. He also has threatened
me with bodily harm for spanking his 10‑ or 11‑year‑old for
swimming in the river without permission or supervision. [Annotated: regrettable, but I have no power
to redress it.]
From
L. W. Hartshorn, Norfolk, VA, 8 Jan 1842:
Mentions that Midshipman Charles R. Smith,
now in COLUMBIA,"arrived here" in CONSTITUTION and has failed to pay
a debt of $83.75 for uniform parts.
[Annotated: I have no power on the subject.]
From
Clark Kellogg, Baltimore, MD, 31 Jan 1842:
John N. Maffitt, once Midshipman in
CONSTITUTION, still owes him $5 from 1839.
From
Tazewell Taylor, Norfolk, VA, 1 and 16 Apr 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION for
Midshipman James Heron. [Annotated:
done.]
From
Hon. K. Rayner, Washington, DC, 20 Apr 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION for
Lieutenant William T. Muse as the ship is about to go to the Brazilian
station. [Annotated: already so
ordered.]
From
Eliza C. Davidson, Fairfax Co., VA, 30 Apr 1842:
Son Midshipman Hunter Davidson, under
orders to report to CONSTITUTION 1 May, won't be able to because today he
dislocated his wrist. Will report to
ship when ready for duty. [Annotated:
extended to 7 May.]
From
Hill Carter, ?, 30 May 1842:
Son Acting Midshipman Robert R. Carter in
CONSTITUTION wants orders to a more active ship, like FALMOUTH. [Annotated: done 4 June.]
From
Louis McLane, Baltimore, MD, 7 Jun 1842:
Son Allen will be delayed reporting to
CONSTITUTION, but will be there ASAP.
From John Jones, Hampton, VA, 10 Jun 1842:
Understanding that CONSTITUTION will not
sail before 4 July, requests his son be allowed to finish his college term
before reporting. [Annotated: at Wm
& Mary. Order accordingly.]
From
Midshipman William Wilkinson, USS PENNSYLVANIA, 24 Jun 1842:
Regrets his overstaying leave, doesn't wish
to be dismissed, and requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant Charles Thomas, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Jul 1842:
Requests leave or orders to the receiving
ship at Baltimore.
From Hon. Richard D. Davis, Washington, DC, 8 Aug
1842:
Acting Midshipman Stanwix Gansevoort wants
orders from CONSTITUTION to a more active ship.
From
Tazewell Taylor, Norfolk, VA, 16 Dec 1842;
Midshipman James Heron so delighted with
the recent cruise of CONSTITUTION he would like duty in a more active
ship. [Annotated: CONSTITUTION will
probably sail as soon as any other.]
From
Louis McLane, Bohemia, ?, 30 Dec 1842:
Requests a leave extension for ailing son
Allen, attached to CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: Withdrawn 1 Jany 1843.]
Roll 190, Vol 340 (January 1 ‑ 31 ,
1843)
From
Joseph Bridgman, Swan Quarter, NC, 7 Jan 1843:
Son Benjamin is in CONSTITUTION; 5' tall;
19 "last September." Requests
his discharge.
From
Sergeant J. Reigart, USMC, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Jan 1843:
Have been offered the position of Ship's
Steward if I can be discharged from the Corps.
[Endorsed by Captain Parker.]
[Annotated: discharge ordered 24 Feb.]
From
Samuel R. Ketcham, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Jan 1843:
Requests his discharge. [Endorsed by Lieutenant Charles W. Chauncey, "Commdg
Off."] [Annotated: done 10 Jany.]
From
Luke Kelso, New York, NY, 10 Jan 1843:
Requests discharge for 18‑year‑old
son Lewis in CONSTITUTION, a British subject born in Halifax, NS.
From
Daniel Stiltz, Baltimore, MD, 11 Jan 1843:
Son Apprentice William Stiltz in
CONSTITUTION wishes a short leave.
Haven't received an answer to last letter.
From
Nicholas Fagan, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Jan 1843:
Requests leave. [Endorsed by Chauncey as "Commdg
Off."]
From
Landsman Coleman L. Lilly, USS CONSTITUTION, n.d.
A Black from Petersburg, VA. In service 9 months and requests discharge.
From
Apprentice Edward Brady, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Jan 1843:
Wishes a month's leave. [Endorsed by Chauncey as "Commdg
off."]
From
John Hixon, Washington, DC, 14 Jan 1843:
Requests appointment as Master's Mate. Entered the Navy as a Midshipman in 1834 and
resigned "nearly 2 years since" to go into business, which has
failed. His father was in the Navy for
20 years and was Master of CONSTITUTION when she took HMS CYANE and HMS LEVANT. [Annotated: no further appointments in that
grade.]
From
Francis E. Brewster, Philadelphia, PA, 17 Jan 1843:
Requests discharge for Apprentice Emmanuel
Roach in CONSTITUTION. About 17 or 18.
From
William Bishop, Baltimore, MD, 22 Jan 1842:
Brother, Apprentice James Bishop in
CONSTITUTION, wants his discharge. He
was 21 "last June."
[Annotated: no.]
From
A. F. Judlin, Baltimore, MD, 23 Jan 1843:
Son, Apprentice John W. Judlin in
CONSTITUTION, wants a furlough before impending transfer to BRANDYWINE. [Annotated: give him 20 days.]
From Robert Souter, Rockland Co., OH, 6 Jan 1843:
Son, Seaman William Souter, shipped at New
Orleans and is now in CONSTITUTION.
Request his discharge. He was 19
on 26 May 1842.
From
Elias Thompson, Baltimore, MD, 25 Jan 1843:
Son Alexander, now in CONSTITUTION, shipped
14 Mar 1842 when "nearly 18."
Request his discharge.
From
Apprentice George A. Hoyle, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Jan 1843:
Requests leave before transfer to
BRANDYWINE. [Endorsed by Chauncey as
"Commdg Off."] [Annotated:
permission granted.]
From
Henry Grady, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Jan 1843:
Requests leave. [Endorsed by Chauncey as "Commdg
Off."]
From
Ordinary Seaman Lewis Kelsoe [sic], USS CONSTITUTION, 31 Jan 1843:
Requests discharge. [Endorsed by Chauncey as "Commdg
Off."] [Annotated: decline.]
Roll 191, Vol 341 (February 1 - 28, 1843)
From
Frederick Crofton, Bristol, England, 3 Feb 1843:
His son, Landsman Frederick Crofton,
shipped in CONSTITUTION in May 1839.
Transferred to ST. LOUIS in December 1840. Haven't heard from him since January
1842. Please advise. [Annotated: Discharged 3 May '42.]
From
Apprentice Henry Adams, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Feb 1843:
Requests 3 weeks leave before transfer to
BRANDYWINE. [Chauncey endorsed as
"Commdg off."]
From
D. E. Shipley, Baltimore, MD, 6 Feb 1843:
Midshipman W. C. B. S. Porter has owed me
$416.50 for clothing since the Fall of 1838.
Ordered to CONSTITUTION February 1839 at Norfolk. Obtained a judgment against him on 5
September 1842. Porter posted a bond
which has proven bankrupt. [Annotated:
get Porter's explanation.]
From
Apprentice Thomas Bayley, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Feb 1843:
Requests leave. [Endorsed by Chauncey as "commdg
off."] [Annotated: give him 2
weeks.]
From
Henry Post, Baltimore, MD, 20 Feb 1843:
Believes his son Charles is in
CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: dis 24 Feb.]
From
Phillip Callaghan, German "flatts," NY, 24 Feb 1843:
Son James Munro Callaghan, 15, is in
CONSTITUTION. Wants him discharged. [Annotated: dis ordered Mar 6 1843.]
From
Carpenter's Mate James Furgeson [sic], USS BRANDYWINE, 26 Feb 1843:
Shipped solely for CONSTITUTION on 5 Aug
1843 [sic: 1842]. Requests discharge
because transferred.
From
James Histly [?], ?, n.d.
Requests discharge of William R. Holan
in CONSTITUTION. His apprentice.
Roll 192, Vol 342 (March 1 ‑ 31,
1843)
From
William Dispair, USS BRANDYWINE, 15 Mar 1843:
His 20 months of service to date have
included assignment to USS DELAWARE, USS PENNSYLVANIA, USS CONSTITUTION, and
BRANDYWINE. A Black from St. Eustatius,
requests discharge.
From
Thomas Miles, USS BRANDYWINE, 27 Mar 1843:
Since shipping in Boston on 2 Jul 1841, has
been in USS COLUMBUS, USS MACEDONIAN, USS PENNSYLVANIA, USS CONSTITUTION, and
BRANDYWINE. Incorrectly listed as a 5‑year
enlistee. Will stay for her cruise if
you pay the bounty they get. [Annotated:
transfer to PENNSYLVANIA.]
Roll 193, Vol 343 (April 1 ‑ 30,
1843)
From
Joseph Butler, Philadelphia, PA, 12 Apr 1843:
Purser's steward James Campbell was in
CONSTITUTION during the War of 1812. His
real name is James Meaghan. Have you any
information on him? [Annotated: BMt of
that name on ship's muster up to 9 June 1812; thereafter not found.]
Roll 194, Vol 344 (May 1 ‑ 31,
1843)
From
Seaman William Snow, USS BRANDYWINE, 2 May 1843:
Entered service at New Orleans for 5
years. Served in ONTARIO, MACEDONIAN,
and CONSTITUTION before BRANDYWINE.
Still has not received the bounty due him. [Annotated: wrote to Purser Thornton to pay
Snow.]
From
Seaman William Grant, USS BRANDYWINE, 14 May 1843:
Shipped on 2 Apr 1842 at New Orleans. Transferred from ONTARIO to MACEDONIAN to
CONSTITUTION before BRANDYWINE. Has yet
to receive bounty. [Annotated:
authorized.]
Roll 195, Vol 345 (June 1 ‑ 30,
1843)
From
James Etheridge, 4th Auditor's Office, 1 Jun 1843:
John Ewing has served in FRANKLIN, SPARK,
INDEPENDENCE, JOHN ADAMS, CONSTITUTION, and OHIO. [Annotated: send him to Asylum.]
Roll 196, Vol 346 (July 1 ‑ 31,
1843)
From
W. G. Howison, Washington, DC, 3 Jul 1843:
William F. Williams, alias William Brown,
shipped under the alias in CONSTITUTION and deserted about the time the crew
was transferred to BRANDYWINE. Is now in
civil custody. [Annotated: send him to
MISSOURI.]
From
Commodore E. P. Kennedy, USS PENNSYLVANIA, 29 Jun 1843:
Notes that Brown [above] was taken 6 June
in Washington County, Delaware.
From
Catherine Williams, Washington, DC, 8 Jul 1843:
Her son, William F., alias William Brown,
is a minor and shipped without parental permission. Request his discharge from MISSOURI.
From
Levin Re___ills, Elkridge Landing, MD, 17 Jul 1843:
Is Thomas Jackson still in service? He shipped for CONSTITUTION at Baltimore in
May 1842.
Roll 197, Vol 347 (August 1 ‑ 31,
1843)
From
Margret [sic] Wilson, Baltimore, MD, 21 Aug 1843:
Son Landsman Franklin Wilson, in service 3
years, is now in CONSTITUTION under "Captain Sanders" at
Gosport. Requests his discharge. [Annotated: "Comdt to do what he thinks
right."]
From
Catherine W. Callender, Boston, MA, 21 Aug 1843:
Who was Sailing Master of CONSTITUTION when
she fought JAVA?
From
Joshua Parker, Philadelphia, PA, 28 Aug 1843:
Born in Westchester County, NY. Entered the Navy as Ordinary Seaman in 1821
in CONSTITUTION and remained in her until she paid off in 1828. Later in GUERRIERE under "Thompson"
and at Brooklyn Navy Yard. Sailed again
in CONSTITUTION under Elliott until 1838, when he left service. Now resides at Naval Asylum. Asks for clothes, pocket money, and tobacco.
Roll 198, Vol 348 (September 1 ‑
30, 1843)
NOTHING
Roll 199, Vol 349 (October 1 ‑ 31,
1843)
From
John Strain, Boston, MA, 25 Oct 1843:
Requests his discharge. First shipped in 1814 and fought in Battle of
Lake Champlain in SARATOGA. Transferred
to MOHAWK on Lake Ontario and discharged at Sackett's Harbor in 1815. Shipped in ENTERPRIZE; paid off at New York,
1819. Shipped over and sent to HUDSON,
then invalided home. Shipped in
CONSTITUTION under Elliott until paid off.
Next in MISSOURI, for which he specifically shipped; when destroyed by
fire, was returned to Boston and OHIO.
Is 41 and wants to go home to his family in New York. [Annotated: all [MISSOURIs] disch Oct.28.]
Roll 200, Vol 350 (November 1 ‑ 30,
1843)
From
Carpenter Henry G. Thomas, Portsmouth, VA, 10 Nov 1843:
I understand Captain Percival has requested
me for CONSTITUTION. [Annotated:
approved.]
From
Samuel Humes Porter, Washington, DC, 25 Nov 1843:
Requests promotion to warrant rank and
orders to CONSTITUTION for Gunner's Mate Gibson, son of late Army Colonel. [Annotated: transfer to CONSTITUTION.]
Roll 201, Vol 351 (December 1 ‑ 31,
1843)
From
Headquarters, Marine Corps, 11 Dec 1841 [sic]:
Forwards discharges for Corporal John
Tucker and Privates Peter R. Bartolette and James Ward, late of CONSTITUTION's
Marine Guard. Bartolette was 21 in 1837
when he enlisted, born at Amwell, NJ. He
is 5'9" tall, and has gray eyes, brown hair, and a fresh complexion. He was a saddler by trade. He was transferred from CONSTITUTION on 10
Nov 1841.
Roll 202, Vols 352 and 353 (January 1 - 31, 1844)
From Harriet A. Crocker, Portsmouth, VA, to
President John Tyler, 30 Jan 1844:
Seeks
remission of the court-martial sentence of her husband, Boatswain Edward
Crocker, in part because of his service in Chesapeake in the affair with
Leopard and in Constitution's victories over Guerriere and
Java. (He had been found guilty
of negligence of duty despite it being shown he had been ill.) [Not recommended by SecNav.]
From Mr. Joseph C. Hart, New York, NY, 31 Jan
1844:
Requests
that his nephew be transferred to Raritan under Captain Gregory. [Hart ordered to Constitution.]
Roll 203, Vol 354 (February 1 - 29, 1844)
From William H. Haywood, Jr., [?]. NJ, 19 Feb
1844:
Requests
that Midshipman [Lewis] Beard be transferred from Constitution to Plymouth.
From Edwin T. Allen, Rixeyville, VA, 23 Feb
1844:
Would
like to go to sea in Constitution.
[No.]
From British Consul Ch. L. FitzGerald, New York,
NY, 29 Feb 1844:
Seeks
restitution of funds lent to Midshipman William C. B. S. Porter, then attached
to Constitution, at Port Mahon, Minorca, in 1838 [sic: misdated
1828], having been repeatedly stonewalled by both Porter and his mother in this
matter over the years. [Annotated:
"Let Mr. Porter have a copy of the letter, & call upon him for an
explanation forthwith." "Done
March 5." "Inform Mr. F that
he shall hear from the Depmt on the subject as soon as Mr. P is heard
from." "Done March 5."]
Citizens' committee, Petersburg, VA, 29 Feb
1844:
Seeks
the discharge of one Hezekiah M. Jefferson, an 18-year-old youth, son of
Boswell and Sarah Jefferson of that city, said now to be in Constitution. [Not so.]
Vol 355 (March 1 - 31, 1844)
From J.
B. H. Smith, Washington, DC, 6 Mar 1844:
Seeks
restitution of $160 for his client, merchant Peter Orfila of Port Mahon,
Minorca, from Midshipman R. A. Knapp, to whom that some was lent. [Annotated: "Send this to Capt. Percival
& tell him to show it to Mr Knapp & require him to make provision for
the payment of the claim without delay - & send this letter back to the
Depmt."]
From British Consul Ch. L. FitzGerald, New York,
NY, 13 Mar 1844:
Acknowledges
receipt of the Secretary's letter of the 11th, but reports
non-receipt of the letter Midshipman Porter claims to have written him. The amount of the debt is $367. [Annotated to inform the Consul that Porter
did leave a letter at the Department for him that was forwarded, and let Porter
know of the non-receipt. "Done
March 15."]
From John Chandler, Boston, MA, 12 Mar 1844:
Seeks appointment as
Naturalist "to accompany Capt Percival on his next cruise." [No.]
From Representative Archibald Atkinson,
Washington, DC, 13 Mar 1844:
Inquires
as to the seaworthiness of Constitution in light of concerns expressed
by a constituent who recalls that the ship returned to port in an unseaworthy
condition late in 1842 and does not seem to have had adequate repair. [Referred to Bureau of Construction and
Repair for response.]
From Representative Robert C. Winthrop,
Washington, DC, 16 Mar 1844:
Endorses
John Chandler of Augusta, Maine, to be naturalist in Constitution.
From Sailmaker N. C. L'Hommedieu, New York, NY,
30 Mar 1844:
Forwards
a copy of his sworn statement that, while serving in Constitution under
Commodore Jesse D. Elliott, he had occasion to make a tent for the use of
Minister Lewis Cass, the canvas for which was that gentleman's personal
property and not government stores.
From British Consul Ch. L. FitzGerald, New York,
NY, 31 Mar 1844:
Still
is not aware that anything has been done toward the repayment of Passed
Midshipman Porter's debt. Is about to
leave the country and wishes to inform his banker of what arrangement has been
made. Suggests a monthly allotment of
$25.
Roll 204, Vols 356 and 357 (April 1 - 30, 1844)
From John Beard, St. Augustine, FL, 8 Mar 1844:
Requests
a short leave for his son, Midshipman Lewis Beard, who has recently returned
from 3 years in the Pacific and is now ordered to Constitution.
From Representative James G. Clinton,
Washington, DC, 3 Apr 1844;
Requests
a copy of Captain Percival's orders "or of that part of such orders
relating to the purchase of coal mines on some Island in the Pacific Ocean, if
any part of such orders relate to that subject."
From Mrs. E. A. McLean, Philadelphia, PA, 17 Apr
1844:
Will
Constitution go to sea shortly?
Whither bound? How long will she
stay in New York? [Annotated: "She
will probably sail about 25 inst for NYork."]
From British Consul Ch. L. FitzGerald, New York,
NY, 17 Apr 1844:
Requests
that the Secretary "interfere" in getting Passed Midshipman Porter to
pay off his debt. [Annotated that Porter
has made out an allotment of $40/mo. For 10 months - beginning in August.]
Roll 205, Vol 358 (May 1 - 31, 1844)
From Purser's Clerk John Collins, USS Constitution,
13 May 1844:
Requests
the transfer of his son, Apprentice Napoleon B. Collins, from USS Princeton
to Constitution, now at New York.
[Annotated: "Done May 18th."]
From Patrick Gedat, USS Constitution, 15
May 1844:
Requests
his discharge. [Granted.]
From Purser's Clerk John Collins, USS Constitution,
19 May 1844:
Requests
permission to leave an allotment of $30/mo. As one of half his pay is
insufficient for his family. [Granted.]
Roll 206, Vol 359 (June 1 - 30, 1844)
NOTHING
Roll
207, Vol 360 (July 1 - 31, 1844)
NOTHING
Roll
208, Vol 361 (August 1 - 31, 1844)
From
Purser's Clerk John Collins, Philadelphia, PA, 13 Aug 1844:
As he left Constitution prior
to her sailing from New York, and his son, Napoleon, had not joined her, he now
requests the lad be ordered back to Princeton.
From
John Gibson, New York, NY, 19 Aug 1844:
Asks if Joseph Campbell, who joined Constitution
in February or March 1839 as a musician, is still in service. [Annotated: "Campbell 1st
class musician died on board Constitution June 16, 1840. Balance due him $52.88, including a credit of
$15.51 proceeds of sale of his effects."]
Roll
209, Vols 362 and 363 (September 1 - October 31, 1844)
NOTHING
Roll
210, Vols 364 and 365 (November 1 - December 31, 1844)
From
John Shields, Washington, DC, 15 Nov 1844:
Says he was in Constitution in
the Pacific "when Commodore Claxon [sic: Claxton] died, having been
transferred from Shark while rated Gunner's Mate. Returned to Norfolk in the frigate in
November 1841, spent 4 months in hospital, then was transferred to Pennsylvania
and was medically discharged - falsely, according to him. Seeks the pay due him as a Gunner's
Mate. [Annotated: "Said to be
deranged."]
Roll
211 (January 1 - 31, 1845)
From
James Dickson, [?] Jan 1845:
Transferred from PRESIDENT to
CONSTITUTION under Captain Hull, and discharged. Later served throughout the War of 1812 in
CONGRESS, then enlisted "on the Lakes" until 1818. Through the 1820s, served in CONSTELLATION,
JACKALL, BRANDYWINE, and DELAWARE. Then
in CONSTELLATION a second time, WARREN (2 enlistments), and MARION. His last service in CUMBERLAND until
invalided home with rheumatism, Jan 1845.
[Not on ship's rolls. Entered
into the Naval Asylum.]
From
James C. Morse, Esquire, Boston, MA, 25 Jan 1845:
Inquires about prize money due from
the CYANE-LEVANT victory to Cooper Alexander Lane, and William Enrick and Peter
Kline, maintopmen in CONSTITUTION at the time.
[Annotated to the effect that their shares were paid to their respective
attorneys between October 1816 and July 1817 by prize agent John McCauley. Enrick and Kline not found on ship's rolls.]
Roll
212 (February 1- 28, 1845)
From
Representative D. M. Passingal, Washington, DC, 13 Feb 1845:
Wants to know if Passed Midshipman
Lewis C. Sartori's claim for an allowance of $806.30 due him as the appointed
Professor of Mathematics in CONSTITUTION from 10 Jlu 1839 to 25 Apr 1841 is
valid, said appointment having been made by Commodore Claxton. [Annotated: "Refer to 4th
Auditor for report."]
Roll
213 (March 1 - 31, 1845)
From
R. Ogden Glover, New York, NY, 4 Mar 1844 [sic]:
Reports that he sailed from the US in
May 1839 as secretary to Commodore Claxton, commanding the Pacific Squadron
[CONSTITUTION, flagship], and that in November 1840 he was sent to ST. LOUIS to
act as purser, the regularly assigned officer having been ordered home. It was contrary to his experience, but despite
this, he subsequently was ordered to a similar position in SHARK. Upon the ships' return to the US, slops
purchased overseas by his predecessors were transferred to the Navy Store, and
subsequently inventoried and much rejected.
He as charged $738.45 as a result.
Requests indemnification.
From
Juan Cacho, Port Mahon, Minorca, 14 Mar 1845:
Seeks recovery of $245 owned him by
Lieutenant D. F. Dulany, USN, of USS CONSTITUTION, per signed and witnessed IOU
dated 12 Jun 1838. [Annotated:
"write to the Lieutenant & require and explanation."]
From
John Strain, New York, NY, 19 Mar 1845:
States he has served on board
MACEDONIAN, BRANDYWINE, HUDSON, NORTH CAROLINA, and CONSTITUTION, "where I
was injured." Requests assignment
to the Naval Asylum. Can't live of the
$4.50 monthly pension he is receiving.
[Annotated: "Let him go to the Asylum & be admitted on
surrender of his pension certificate."]
Roll
214 (April 1 - 30, 1845)
From
James Gregory, Marblehead, MA, 1 Apr 1845:
Requests that a enclosed letter from
James F. Kittredge, once a seaman in CONSTITUTION, be forwarded to Commodore
Jacob Jones.
From
Christopher Prior, Baltimore, MD, 28 Apr 1845:
Joined Navy in 1824 and served as a
seaman in CONSTITUTION under Commodore "M Donnah." Discharged in 1828, then shipped over. Shipping over again in 1834, returned to
CONSTITUTION under Commodore J. D. Elliott.
Discharged at Norfolk, 1838.
Further sea service until 1845.
Now would like to be master's mate of a receiving ship or duty at a
yard. Was born in Newport, RI, on 9 May
1794. [Annotated: "No
vacancy."]
Roll
215 (May 1 - June 30, 1845)
From
Pearson Cogswell, Washington, DC, 14 May 1845:
Writing on behalf of Henry Bennett, who claims to have been a seaman
under Hull and Bainbridge, and later on Lake Erie under Perry, where he was
severely wounded in the hip. Applies now
for the pension he never received.
[Annotated: "Report the facts." Not found on ship's rolls.]
Roll
216 (July 1 - August 31, 1845)
From
N. W. Buckner, Lexington, KY, 15 Jul 1845:
"I hope you will excuse the
anxiety of a mother for troubling you with these few lines, my only son is a
mid on the ship Constitution [sic] I have not heard from him or the ship since
last Nov will you be kind enough to let me know where the ship was when you
last heard from her and the health of the officers and crew when is the ship
expected home please let me know as soon as possible."
From
Samuel T. Cooper, Andover, MA, 16 Aug 1845:
Says he was once an officer in
CONSTITUTION where an injury left him unable to do more than light work. Offers to be a recruiter. [Annotated: "Not needed."] .
Roll
217 (September 1 - October 31, 1845)
From
William Field, Norfolk, VA, 29 Oct 1845:
Says he has been in the Navy since
1822, including aboard CONSTITUTION under Commodore Elliott, from which he was
discharged on 11 Aug 1838. Now 64 ywars
old and nearly blind requests assignment to the Naval Asylum. [Annotated: "permit issued Oct. 31 &
sent to Norfolk, with an order on the Navy Agent for $10."]
Roll
218 (November 1 - December 31, 1845)
From
George Woodruff, Brooklyn, NY, 6 Nov 1845:
Requests entry into the Naval Asylum
for his uncle, John Scofield, whose service began in 1815 and included tours in
CONSTITUTION under Macdonough and Patterson in the 1820s, and with Elliott,
1835-38. He is now "very poor, old
& infirm." [Done, 15 Nov 1845.]
From
Anne Hammel, Newark, NJ, 20 Nov 1845:
Says she hasn't heard from her son
in six years and wonders if the Robert Hammel rumored to be aboard CONSTITUTION
might be he. [Not on board.]
From
Mrs. M. Van Pelt, Philadelphia, PA, 24 Nov 1845:
Requests address for
"Constition," and "latest dates from that ship." [Answered, 26 Nov 1845.]
From
James Gibson, Philadelphia, PA, 26 Dec 1845:
Now 58, he has been in naval service
24 years. He began with Isaac Hull in
CONSTITUTION using the name John Campbell.
He was in the GUERRIERE battle.
Next he was with Charles Stewart in the same ship and participated in
the CYANE/LEVANT fight, still under the name of John Campbell. He then used his own name in all subsequent
service. He requests employment in the
Philadelphia Navy Yard. [Referred to
Yard commandant. Eligible for the Naval
Asylum.]
Roll
219 (January 1 - 31, 1846)
Undated,
unsigned memorandum filed among January 1846 correspondence:
Indicates that Theodore Thomas, as a
part of his naval service, served in CONSTITUTION and JOHN ADAMS during the
period 1834-7. [Permit for Naval Asylum
issued 12 Jan 1846.]
From
Harriot Ward Wisner, Philadelphia, PA, December 1845:
Says her husband entered the Navy in
1812, and in CONSTITUTION participated
in both the GUERRIERE ["Gurier"]and CYANE ["sian"]/LEVANT
battles, being wounded in the former. He
died in service as a gunner's mate in UNITED STATES, and died of
"inflammation of the lungs," leaving his wife and four children. She requests pension. [Not found on rolls.]
From
Martha Catalano, Washington, DC, 6 Jan 1846:
Requests "the usual
honors" at the funeral of her late husband, Sailing Master Salvadore [sic]
Catalano. He is to be buried at 2 this
afternoon. {Not granted because, being on the Sick List,
technically he was not on duty.]
From
Barnabee Sonnon, New York, NY, 26 Jan 1846:
Claims to have begun his naval
service in CONSTITUTION and been aboard her throughout the War of 1812. Requests entry to Naval Asylum. Illiterate.
[Done. Not found on ship's
rolls.]
Roll
220 (February 1 - 28, 1846)
From
William B. Yates, Norfolk, VA, 6 Feb 1846:
Seaman Joseph Sheridan, invalided
from CONSTITUTION at Rio de Janeiro and now in the local marine hospital,
requests either a pension or admission to the Naval Asylum. [Not found on ship's rolls. Referred to the Commissioner of Pensions.]
Roll
221 (March 2 - 31, 1846)
NOTHING
Roll
222 (April 1 - 30, 1846)
From
Thomas Burgess, Providence, RI, 2 Apr 1846:
"On the 21st of
March last past, a draft for $240 was presented at the Navy Department for acceptance, drawn in my favor
by Thomas Holdup Stevens, U.S.N.S. Keeper, dated at Honolulu, Sandwich Islands Decr 2d 1845,
payable in twenty days [?]ight; and drawn on the Secretary of the Navy. It was not accepted and therefore
protested. This Bill belongs to Lieut.
Amasa Paine, of the U.S. Ship, Constitution, and was taken from Mr Stevens, and
forwarded to me as a remittance for the support of his Wife and children. Mrs Paine's means of living being quite
limited, her anxiety is therefore the more excited for fear she may be delayed
or deprived of the benefit of the amount of this remittance [?] the absence of
her Husband, is so important to her and children. By the Navy Register for 1843 it appears that
Mr Stevens' compensation for that year was $983.91.
"At the request of Mrs. Paine,
I am induced to ask, if the draft cannot without violating any general rule of
practice, be paid at the Department, when at maturity or be put in such a
situation without loss or inconvenience, as that the amount may be speedily
realized for her use." [Annotated:
"…The Dept…will pay."]
Roll
223 (May 1 - 31, 1846)
From
George Springer, New Bedford, MA, 16 May 1846:
"I now take this opportunity of
writing to you to inform you that I am very anxious to serve my country and
write you to give me a midshipmans birth [sic] in the Nay [sic] and place me on
board of the Constitution or old ironsides Mr President if you will give me
that birth [sic] you will please me very much or give me a Charter to fit out a
Privateer againts [sic] the Mexicans if you will give me the Charter for the
Privateer you will see one of the most handsomest [sic] [?] gunbiggs [sic] you
ever saw for sailing and fighting, donot [sic] forget the Midshipmans birth
[sic] or the Charter for by God if you give me the Charter Mexico shall smart
for her impudence towards us…"
From
Rebecca Zimmerman, Baltimore, MD, 23 May 1846:
"I [sic] address [sic] these
few linies to you To [sic] ask the favour of inforning [sic] me Conserning
[sic] my son george [sic] Zimmerman On [sic] board the u s [sic] frigate
Constitution and I [sic] have reseaved [sic] mo [sic] information Froom [sic]
him for near too [sic] years pleas [sic] direct an answer to…"
Roll
224 (June 1 - 30, 1846)
From
James R. Bolten, U. S. Consulate, Mazatlan, Mexico, 14 Jun 1846:
Forwards a packet of letters for
officers of CONSTITUTION received after the ship's departure (2 for Captain
Percival, 3 each for Lieutenants Paine, Alden, and Dale, 1 for Lieutenant
Chaplin, 2 for Purser Taylor, and 3 for Captain's Clerk Benjamin Stevens). Advises he will bill the Department for the
$8.75 postage due.
Roll
225 (July 1 - 31, 1846)
From
John Parrott, U. S. Consul, Mazatlan, Mexico, n. d.:
Duplicate of ledger page showing
that $20,000 was shipped in CONSTITUTION on 11 Feb 1846, as well as an
additional $5000 duty free. Source
unidentified, but may have been one William Forbes.
Roll
226 (August 1 - September 30, 1846)
From
Apprentice Charles F. Gallop, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Sep 1846:
After 4 years, 9 months in service
without leave, requests his discharge so he can visit his mother in New York
City.
From
Apprentice Ralph Isaacs, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Sep 1846:
Requests
his discharge to attend to his infirm, widowed father. [Granted.]
Roll
227 (October 1 - 31, 1846)
From
William F. Herrick, Manchester, NH, 10 Oct 1846:
Was serving as Purser's Steward in
SHARK in the Fall of 1845, when, at the request of his parents, Secretary
Bancroft ordered his return home for discharge.
Briefly transferred to WARREN on 1 April 1846, he was returned to SHARK
the same day and disrated to Ordinary Seaman before being returned to
WARREN. On 20 April, at his own request,
he was transferred to CONSTITUTION.
Wants to know if he should have been paid as a petty officer on the
voyage home. He had been receiving
$24/mo. [Not allowed.]
From
Henry Coyle, Londonderry, Ireland, 20 Oct 1846:
Asks for information of his brother,
James, who went around the world in CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: "James Coyle OS - returned
in the Fr. Constitution - Discharged & paid off at Boston Octo. 8,
1846."]
From
A. W. Goff, New York, NY, 24 Oct 1846:
Boy Fritz [?] Gedder, on furlough
from CONSTITUTION, requests discharge.
[Reason(s) wanted.]
From
Apprentice Charles F. Gallop, New York, NY, 29 Oct 1846:
Again requests his discharge to
support his mother and sisters.
[Annotated: "Let him be paid & discharged."]
From
A. W. Goff, New York, NY, 29 Oct 1846:
Is Fritz Gedder's guardian. Requests his discharge as he is in poor
health, partly from a fall experienced aboard ship. [Discharge authorized.]
From
Michael Conlin, Brooklyn, NY, 31 Oct 1846:
Until recently, had been a quarter
gunner in CONSTITUTION. Has 18 years in
service, and requests duty aboard receiving ship NORTH CAROLINA in the New York
Navy Yard. [Directed to apply to Yard
Commandant.]
Roll
228 (November 1 - 30, 1846)
From
James Morris, Boston, MA, 2 Nov 1846:
"I will briefly state my case
as an honorable Marine of the U.S. passing 4 hlh [sic] discharges
and arrived in the Constitution Frigate old Iron Sides in common parlance. Capt Percal is cause of Blackening Jacksons Figure
head. I have written to the 4th
Auditor to Audit my Account. I hope for
justice and nothing but justice from the Head of the Democracy my General
Henderson of the Marines. I will explain
all."
From
Joshua Vansant, Baltimore, MD, 4 Nov 1846:
Inquires of William E. Hughlett,
thought to have been a marine in CONSTITUTION.
{Annotated that his name appears on no Marine roll. He was an Ordinary Seaman.]
From
Delbitt C. Graham, n.d.:
Writes requesting discharge for
George Fitzgerald, until recently a captain of the fore top in
CONSTITUTION. [Permission granted.]
From
Maxwell Hopson, Hopkinsville, KY, 14 Nov 1846:
Inquires as to the present location
of his brother, John E. Hopson, until recently in CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: "John E. Hopson Mid. Marked
on the Rolls of the Constitution 'Run 20th June 1846
Valparaiso."]
From
Maxwell Hopson, Hopkinsville, KY, 17 Nov 1846:
Again inquires the whereabouts of
his brother, John E. Hopson, saying he understood he was transferred from CONSTITUTION
to another vessel.
Roll
229 (December 1 - 31, 1846)
From
Theodore De Luca, New York, NY, 4 Dec 1846:
Inquires as to the whereabouts of
Master Straing [sic: Strain] of CONSTITUTION.
From
William Gleason, Union, ME, 4 Dec 1846:
Inquires as to the whereabouts of
Edward Nye or Edward J Nye, who was in CONSTITUTION. [Never in the ship.]
From
James Reamy, Sr., Westmoreland Cty., VA, 9 Dec 1846:
Seeks information regarding his son,
James, Jr., who was a Marine in CONSTITUTION.
[Was transferred from CONSTITUTION to PORTSMOUTH, 23 Mar 1846.]
Rolls
230 through 240
NOT SEEN
Roll 241 (January 1 – February 28, 1849)
From
Mrs. M. Maxwell, Mercer, PA, 6 Jan 1849:
Wants to know how to communicate
with her son in CONSTITUTION and sends a packet of mail for him. {Annotated: “,,,forwarded…”
Roll 242 (March 1 – 31, 1849)
From
Consul William Winthrop, Malta, to Minister George Bancroft, London, 13 Mar
1849:
Reports
the arrival of CONSTITUTION at Alexandria on 24 Feb after a passage of 12 days
from Malta with the new Consul General, D. S. McCauley and family on board.
Rolls 243 through 253
NOT
SEEN
Roll 254 ((June 1 – July 31, 1850)
NOTHING
Roll 255 (August 1 – September 30, 1850)
From
Ann McGrath, New York, NY, 12 Sep 1850:
When will CONSTITUTION return
home? (She has a brother on board.) [Told the spring or summer of 1851.]
Roll 256 (October 1 – November 30, 1850)
From
George Banton, Binghampton, NY, 10 Oct 1850:
States that Henry Coolidge of that
town was a Marine in CONSTITUTION, and for 2 years in PORTSMOUTH, He was discharged at Charlestown, MA, on 20
May 1848. Seeks prize money for capture
while in latter ship off California.
[Coolidge made most of the circumnavigation and was transferred to
PORTSMOUTH at Mazatlan, Mexico.]
From
Bolivar D. Danels [sic], Baltimore, MD, 8 Nov 1850:
Seeks to confirm newspaper reports
that CONSTITUTION is on her way home.
Roll 257 (December 1 – 31, 1850)
From
J. M. Howe, Mercer, PA, 9 Dec 1850:
His midshipman (and oldest) son,
then 13 years old, left for the Navy on Apr 1848. He is on board CONSTITUTION in the
Mediterranean. When will he be home?
Roll 258 (January 1 – 31, 1851)
From
Representative W. J. Burns, Washington, DC, 13 Jan 1851:
On behalf of the Hon, Jacob P.
Chapman, the boy’s father, requests a leave of absence for Midshipman George H.
Chapman who “just returned home in the Constitution.” [Annotated: “The officers of the Constitution
will be detached on 3 mos. Leave.”]
From
Bolivar D. Danels [sic], Baltimore, MD, 16 Jan 1851:
“The U. S. Frigate Constitution
having arrived at New York,” he requests that his brother, Passed Midshipman
Joseph D. Danels be granted leave immediately so he can attend his aunt’s wedding. [Done 17 Jany 1851.
From
Boatswain’s Mate [?] John Earl, Brooklyn, NY, 21 Jan 1851:
“I am desirous as a citizen of the
United States and as associated with the Navy to see for the credit and honor
of our Country and her institutions, that you should know at home what is going
on abroad & by those who have that sacred trust placed in their hands on
the 17th of July [1849] at Naples.
The ship Constitution – in the charge of 1st Lieutenant Rowen
[sic] – owing to the disability of Capt. Gwinn – brought on by an excessive
indulgence in the use of ardent spirits – permitted – allowed and encouraged
the following acts. 1st The
Guns were run forward to clear The deck for a Ball – the tippled [sic] by the
head the pumps not having been tried for two days – the water running in the
forward Magazine thereby destroying 507 hundred pounds of powder – a great
confusion amounting to Bedlam – the men fighting and drunk – officers and
all[.] The Brig filed [sic] with men &
three sentries over them – I communicate this fact & facts that if these
things should be permitted by officer [sic] pf the service then what should be
or can be expected by others – not desiring to make this public through the
print have taken the liberty to communicate with you…
“P.S. Your attention is particularly call [sic] to
the present proceeding going on at the Navy Yard in Brooklyn & on board of
the Constitution – and the [?] of one Mr. Brady –
“Will you be kind to address me when
I shall receive my prize money -.”
[Annotated
that “he must be more specific.”]
Roll 259 (February 1 – 26, 1851)
From
Denis [sic] Murney, Montreal, “Lower Canada,”
23 Feb 1851:
Seeks the whereabouts of his
brother, George Murney, who had been serving in CONSTITUTION in the
Mediterranean.
Roll 260 (March 1 – 31, 1851)
From
William Miller, Brooklyn, NY, 12 Mar 1851:
Reports he has served two years iin
CONSTITUTION and seeks employment in the Navy Yard.
Endorsement: “Mr. Miller was Armorer of the Frigate
Constitution, during her cruise in the Mediterranean he is a Sober, hard
working man, an ingenious mechanic, and Master of his trade. /s/ John C. Ritter, Gunner.”
Roll 261 (April 1 – May 31, 1851)
NOTHING
Rolls 262 through 270
NOT
SEEN
Roll 271 (April 1 – 30, 1852
NOTHING
Roll 272 (May 1 – 31, 1852)
NOTHING
Roll 273 (June 1 – 30, 1852)
NOTHING
Roll 274 (July 1 – 31, 1852)
NOTHING
Roll 275 (August 1 – 31, 1852)
From
Alexander Evans, Washington, DC, 3 Aug 1852:
Seeks orders for Dr. Solomon Sharp
to some ship destined for foreign service: “the Constitution for example which
I am told is fitting out.”
From
Gunner A. S. Lewis, Baltimore, MD, 16 Aug 1852:
Requests orders to
CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
Roll 276 (September 1 – 30, 1852)
NOTHING
Roll 277 (October 1 – 31, 1852)
From
Mrs. Elizabeth Tolles, New Haven, CT, 9
Oct 1852:
“George F., or George Tolles, was a
seaman on Board the ‘Constitution’ at the time she Took the British Vessels of
War, the ‘Levant’ and ‘Cyane..’ He was
sent home as one of the prize crew of the ‘Cyane;’ after which he was honorably
discharged, without receiving any share of the Prize Money due him on that and
other captures. Said Tolles is now dead,
leaving me, his widow, and also heirs-at-law.
Will you be kind enough, sir, to cause an examination of the Books of
the Navy, and advise me, as early as possible, what and how much may be due an
account of said service and captures, and the most ready means of collecting
the same? [Annotated: “25 March 1817. Paid to him per roll on file the Levant 2219.”
He was paid $22.19 for the LEVANT; no record of payment for CYANE.]
From
Boatswain Charles Johnston, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Oct 1852:
Has reported aboard for duty [from
NORTH CAROLINA].
From
Gunner A S. Lewis, Baltimore, MD, 27 Oct 1852:
Has reported to “Capt. Bourman for
the Frigate Constitution.”
From
Sailmaker James R. Childs, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Oct 1853:
Has reported to CONSTITUTION from
duty in the New York Navy Yard.
Roll 278 (November 1 – 30, 1852)
From
Sailmaker James R. Childs, New York Navy
Yard, 4 Nov 1852:
Acknowledges revocation of orders to
CONSTITUTION; awaits orders to VERMONT.
From
Carpenter Lewis Holmes, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Nov 1852:
Has reported for duty in
CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant Charles L. McDonough, Middletown, CT, 17 Nov 1852:
Requests orders to
CONSTITUTION. [Desired by CDR
Rudd.; annotated “Order him.”]
Roll 279 (December 1 – 31, 1852)
From
Gunner A. S. Lewis, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 December 1852:
“I have learned that I have been
reported to you by Commo. Chas Boarman commanding this station, for
intoxication. I must plead guilty of the
charge of having been more or less under the influence of intoxicating drink.
“As I believe I have never before
been reported to the Department for improper conduct of any kind, I earnestly
solicit you to overlook my delinquency in this case under my solemn assurance
that no cause for complaint of a like nature shall be given in future.”
From
Gunner A. S. Lewis, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 December 1852:
“I have received your letter of the
17th Inst stating that the department will take into consideration
any explanation which I might desire to submit.-- During the war with Mexico, I was on constant
duty in the Gulf in the Potomac Frigate, my health was so shattered on the
return of the ship to the United States from a parlletic [sic] attack that it
confined me to my house for twelve months, at the end of which time I was
ordered to the Navy Yard at Pensacola, where I remained nearly three years,
giving as I am led to believe entire satisfaction.-- I was then placed on furlough at my own
request for one year, after which believing myself capable of attending to duty
I asked for orders for the Constitution.--
For ten long years I never made use of or touched intoxicating Drinks,
and it was only after my arrival here that I made use of them, my constitution
having become more or less shattered, by former sickness took hold of me in
such a manner as I least expected. I
have now quitted it entirely and pledge my word that if the department sees fit
to overlook this my first error in the Navy after eighteen years service, that
no further cause of complaint shall be given.
“As it would be unpleasant for me to
remain in this ship I respectfully request the favor to be detached and ordered
to some other ship.” [COMO Boardman
endorsed the leter with a recommendation that if the Department retained Lewis,
he be left in CONSTITUTION, where any further infraction would be certain to be
reported promptly. The Secretary accepted Lewis’ word and directed he b ordered
elsewhere.]
From
Sailmaker John Stanford, Norfolk, VA, 31 Dec 1852:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
Roll 280 (January 1 – 31, 1853)
From
Kate Woolley, Jefferson City, MO, 25 Jan 1853:
“…Speak to me in kindness – do an
act of humanity, tell me when will be permitted to return? Tell [sic] me when the Constitution will
sail… …my prayer is that…you will
inform me at the earliest moment when the Constitution will sail,
whether she will positively take out ‘orders’ for the John Adams and how
soon I may expect my husband…”
From
Catharine Mitchell, Brooklyn, NY, 28 Jan 1853:
Reports that her husband, Henry.
While a bit tipsy, shipped in CONSTITUTION on 16 Dec. She has one child and is shortly expecting
another, and has no means of support.
Would like him discharged.
From
Nathaniel F. Waring, Brooklyn, NY, 31 Jan 1853;
Requests that Seaman George
Decature, in CONSTITUTION, be transferred to the local receiving ship so that
he can be available when a land suit comes to trial, a case the lawyer says is
to block an attempt to defraud Decature’s wife of land. [So ordered.]
Rolls 281 through 304
NOT
SEEN
Roll 305 (January 1 – 31, 1855)
From
Mrs. Mary Williams, Brooklyn, NY, 3 Jan 1855:
Wants to know why the half-pay allotment
from her husband, Gunner’s Mate [sic: Seaman] John Williams, in CONSTITUTION,
was stopped 2-3 months ago. [Annotated
that the allotment was for 18 months.]
From
Curate A. N. Butterworth, Killyleagh, County Down, Ireland, 24 Jan 1855:
Wishes to know if James Brown is
still aboard CONSTITUTION [Annotated:
“On board Constitution, whose return may be expected at Portsmouth in May
next.”]
Roll 306 (February 1 – 28, 1855)
From
George Nicolls, New York, NY, 2 Feb 1855:
Reports his son, David Nicolls, in
CONSTITUTION, left in March 1853 and
provided him with a half-pay allotment.
That stopped in September 1854 and he was told his son had been
discharged. Why and where was he
discharged? Can a U.S. citizen be
discharged overseas?
From
John White, Brooklyn, NY, 9 Feb 1855:
This 24-year-old notes, in passing
while making a request, that he was a member of the prize crew of H. N.
GAMBRILL, under LT De Camp, and was discharged in Jan 1854.
From
Landsman David Nichols, USS OHIO, 12 Feb 1855;
Pronounced unfit for service and
discharged dishonorably from CONSTITUTION on the coats of Africa, he has since
reshipped (fraudulently?), 28 Dec 1854, and asks again to be discharged. {Refused as the record failed to support his
claim.]
From
William M. MacArthur, Simington, ME, 17 Feb 1855:
On behalf of Mrs. Hannah Perkins,
only child of Joseph Adams, who was killed in action in CONSTITUTION in her
victory over JAVA, asks what rank her father held at the time of his
death. [Annotated: “…Seaman…”]
Roll 307 (March 1 – 31, 1855)
NOTHING
Roll 308 (April 1 – 30, 1855)
From
J. G. Black, Baltimore, MD, 4 Apr 1855:
“Having been Master of the Bark
Justina at the time of the Transaction mentioned I will by leave to State the
facts. While lying in the Isle of Sol
the whaling Ship Sylph of Fairhaven wrecked on the Island and not an article of
Provision was saved from her. As the
Island was in a starving state I and the other Masters of Vessels were obliged
to furnish them with provisions. When I
left I carried a letter from the Consul there to Mr. Morse asking for
assistance for the Wrecked men. Being
short of Provisions and none being to be had on the Island I asked and obtained
permission ffrom Commodore Mayo to be supplied from the naval stores at Just cost
and freight. They were supplied to me
from the Bark Palmetto store sip to the squadron and were naval stores. Water charged for was sent to me from the
Commodore’s Ship [CONSTITUTION]. It
being a Holliday [sic] on shore and I
could get no boat to bring it off without loosing [sic] another day as I became
short of Provisions from having supplied the Wrecked crew and being burthened
by Mr. Morse with two disabled men to be taken to Rio Grande [sic] where I was
bound. I hope sir you will agree that I
should not have been charged an extra price for what I received it having been
Government property and not the property of Mr. Morse.” {Annotated to get Morse’s side of the
incident.]
[Enclosure]
From
Secretary J. C. Dobbins, Washington, DC, to John M. Bandel, Baltimore, MD, 2
Apr 1855:
“I have received your communication
of the 28th ult. In relation to certain provisions furnished by the
Naval Storekeeper at Fayal to the Barque ‘Justina,’ owned by you.
“The prices charged are much higher
than the cost to the Navy, but, as the Naval Storekeeper has made no reference
to the transaction in his returns to the Department, it may be inferred that it
was private property, over which, of course, the Department can exercise no
control.”
Roll 309 (May 1 – 31, 1855)
From
Mrs. H. Clarke, Brooklyn, NY, 6 Mat 1855:
When and where is CONSTITUTION due
to return? Husband aboard.
From Thomas A. Adams, New Orleans, LA, 17 May 1855:
Reports
having received a letter dated 8 May from Lt Samuel Larkin aboard CONSTITUTION
off the south coast of Cuba. Reminds the
Secretary that he had promised to order Larkin to the Portsmouth Yard at the
end of the cruise. “,,,it was not known
that she is directed to come via Havana…”
From
Master Abner Howes, OTORIOSO at New Orleans, LA, 21 May 1855:
[Telegram} “Spoke Frigate Constitution ninth inst on her
way to Havana all well.
From
Thomas Atkinson, New York, NY, 26 May 1855:
Wishes to ship over as a
Yeoman. Had previously served 14 years,
including in CONSTITUTION under Captains Gwinn and Conover.
Roll 310 (June 1 – 30, 1855)
From
J. Warren Towle, Portsmouth, NH, 28 Jun 1855:
“Application has been made to me by
F. L. Johnston yeoman of Frigate Constitution to procure his pay from
government, for his services during the cruise on he Coast of Africa. An order was issued by the Commandant of this
Station to Purser Watmough not to pay off the yeoman till his books were were
[sic] in their proper order and because such duty he is unable to perform as they have not been
examined and signed by his superior officers, since the Constitution sailed on
her cruise-- He receipted for nothing,
but has vouchers for every article expended by him-- His allotment for the support of his wife
during his absence was stopped some two months since & she is now in
Philadelphia without means of support, while he is in this city without
funds—He represents himself as being in a weak state of health, consequent of a
long cruise on the coast of Africa-- By
examination of the enclosed copy which I make of the original certificate, it
is apparent,, that articles were charged to the Frigate, which were never
delivered on board; & it will be unjust to deprive him of his money justly
due, since the yeoman department has been conducted with so little eye as to order and correctness. The wife of Johnston desires his discharge
from the service, & that the department may issue and order to the Purser
at this station (in whose hands has been transferred the amount due) to pay him
off-- Impelled by necessity she has
taken this means to secure her support.
The Frigate was taken out of commission & Johnston placed among
strangers without even the means to procure the necessaries of life-- It would appear that since his superiors
[sic] officers have failed in the performance of their duty in relation to the
books, that he ought not to be considered responsible-- He receipted for nothing & has vouchers
for every article expended. Had the
officers (whose duty it was to do so, examined & signed the books at regular
periods- & Johnston failed in his duty, these might then have been a
pretext for punishing him, as the commandant Seems disposed to do-- But on the actual state of facts – it seems
but just that he should receive his discharge & money & be allowed to return
to his family whose assistance they really need to keep them from the
sufferings of poverty—
“We trust you will consider with
leniency, the condition of his young man, & render what aid, the
circumstances demand..” [Annotated to
get the story from the yard commandant, Captain Joseph Smoot.]
Roll 311 (July 1 – August 31, 1855)
From
J. Warren Towle, Portsmouth, NH, 13 Jul 1855:
“I regret that necessity again
compels me to address you in relation to the settlement with and discharge of
F. L. Johnston late yeoman of Frigate Constitution from the U. S. service—Had
the Commandant of this Station obeyed the order from the Navy department –
justice in this would have been done Johnston--
Johnston was detained here till the tenth of July - & when paid off
on tuesday [sic] last, his receipt dates from June 14th so that
there is nearly one months pay due him during which time, he was obliged to
remain in this city at his own expense--
Nor is this all-- The Purser said
he had no discharge for him – and when he applied in person to the Commandant
for his discharge The [sic] only reply given him was ‘you trifling
villain leave my presence and never let
me set eyes on you again’ Last is Johnston’s report to me—If that is a
legal discharge then Johnston no longer
belongs to the Service, if not he has no protection & is liable to be taken
as a deserter at any time-- I have not
called on Mr. Smoot since your order to him was ignored, for the reason that I
did not wish to place myself in a situation to receive insults for his
___________, and ungentlemanly Manner towards civilians, who call on him in
relation to business matters, have become preverbial among those who have had
actual experience. All we ask is that
Johnston may receive pay up to July 10, & a discharge of some sort to
protect his liberty to show that he no longer belongs to the Service Which in
the name of justice we doubt not you will willingly grant.” [Annotated: “Reply that Capt Smoot was
instructed in consequence of Johnston’s neglect of duty to be discharged but
not furnished with a certificate that would enable him to enlist again as a
Yeoman.”]
From
ex-Quartermaster John Moore, USS OHIO, 14 Jul 1855:
Was discharged from CONSTITUTION at
Portsmouth, but on arriving in Boston, discovered he had lost his honorable
discharge.. Says his number on the
frigate’s rolls was 65, and requests a duplicate. [Annotated that he did not appear on the list
of those receiving such discharges.]
From
Jackson & Ford et al, Philadelphia, PA, 23 Jul 1855:
Seeking to have Henry Clark, a
former sailor in GUERRIERE, CONSTITUTION, and SARATOGA, readmitted to the Naval
Asylum. (A previous inmate, he had been
discharged for failing to follow rules.)
He is now a beggar. [Denied.]
From
Susan McCue, 23 Jul 1855:
Says her husband, John, was a seaman
in CONSTITUTION, recently discharged. In
Boston, he was robbed of money and clothing.
Desperate, he shipped in OHIO in Boston.
Please discharge him. [Filed.]
From
John Williams 1st, New York, NY, 26 Jul 1855:
Encouraged by COMO Mayo, with whom
he served in CONSTITUTION off Africa, this former Quarter Gunner of 18 years
total service requests a position at the New York Navy Yard. Married with “large family.” Holds an Honorable Discharge. [Told to apply to the yard commandant.]
From
J. Warran Towle, Portsmouth, NH, 31 Jul 1855:
“The letter from the Navy Department
of the 27th inst. Is at hand--
In reply I will say that we do not ask for an honorable discharge for
Johnston, but merely a certificate of some kind to show that he no longer
belongs to the navy-- His time did not
expire , his term of enlistment extends
into November next & his pay is in arrears from the 14 of July last – and
we consider that Government is bound to pay him up to the date of his discharge-- He has been kept here at considerable expense
to himself and away from his family-- We
think that, since his neglect of duty in relation to the books was the
legitimate result of a still greater neglect on the part of his Superiors on
board the Frigate, he ought to be regarded with leniency by the
department-- Every man is entitled to a
discharge in some tangible form – in his present position Johnston has no
protection but is liable to be seized as a deserter. The language of Capt. Smoots verbal discharge
we are not inclined to think will be acknowledged by the department as a common
form. We do not even object to that, if
put in the form of a certificate—What we desire and all we ask is that Johnston may be discharged from the
service, the discharge being in some tangible shape, & receive his pay
ffrom the 14th of june last up to the date of said discharge. We ask it in justice to the young man, &
as justly due from the Government. [No
notation.]
From
J. Warren Towle, Portsmouth, NH, 4 Aug 1855:
“Your letter of Aug 2d is
at hand—I reply because there is a misunderstanding of the true merits between
us and a very decided misrepresentation on the part of the
Commandant of the yard. Johnston did
report himself sick and Capt Smoot gave him leave of absence, and told him distinctly
not to return to the yard till he felt perfectly well-- If Capt Smoot had authority to grant leave of
absence; Johnston was not away without authority, & Capt Smoot is well
aware of it-- On the morning of the 10th
of July, I went with
Johnston (both of us having been notified by the Commandant) to the yard, &
there Johnston received his pay up to June 14.-- & it was on
that morning when Capt Smoot told Johnston to leave his presence & ‘never
enter it again’ in reply to Johnston’s request for a discharge-- So for from Johnston’s absence without
authority, he was distinctly told by Capt S. to remain in the city, &
return when he felt able-- He often
reported himself through the Porter of the Yard – to the Capt-- He acted under my advice - & was very
scrupulous about obeying orders from the Commandant. The very day before, orders came to pay off
and discharge Johnston—Capt Smoot Sent a gentleman from the yard to my office &
____ there Met _________ to the Ship’s o_______. That gentleman (whose name has now escaped My
Memory) had been employed by the Capt Smoot to examine the books, & so far
prove there being any deficiency in the ship’s stores-- He stated to me in presence of Johnston they
overrun in every department-- He further Stated that they prove that
Johnston had been perfectly honest-- The
______ facts can be well authenticated; They are true-- He did not leave without authority, Capt
Smoot granted him leave to remain in the city, which he did at his own expense-- And he has been perfectly honest in relations
to the ship’s stores-- Under these
circumstances he is entitled to his work[?]
pay-- And if the department still
continue in the determination to withhold from him, What is his just due, he
shall be compelled to represent his case, where his just claim will be
allowed-- There were other delinquents,
than Johnston, and the facts are as stubborn in relation to one as to another-- Were this claim against a private individual,
there would be but one alternative, that would be to pay-- I’ve know of no law or reason why Government
should stand exempt. We trust the
department will reconsider, & allow Johnston what he has earned, & what
is his just due.” [Filed.]
From
Gunner A. S. Lewis, Baltimore, MD, 6 Aug 1855:
“I Reeveied [sic] yours of the 4th
Inst which Surprised me very much having been Reported for neglect of duty in
Landing the Powder of The Frigate Constitution at Portsmouth navy yard[.] The day I landed the powder there was onley
[sic] one hour and a half before the tide would turn. I don [sic] all that I Could to get the
powder out of the of the [sic] Ship on that tide and in So much haste it was
impossable [sic] for one man in So Small a Space as a magazine to overhaul Evry
[sic] tank with my owen [sic] hands in that Short time[.] The order was to Send all the full tanks a
shore [sic] and Leave The Empty ones on Board until [sic] the Ship Got up to
the navy yard wall, the full tanks was reported to me to be in the Launch from
the main magazine[.] Captain Rudd
Inquired [how] Soon Could I have the fore magazine Clear[.] I Sent word in 10 minutes in that Space of
time I Reported the powder was all in the Launch and deliveid [sic][.] I made a true Report as I have always –
Endavoured [sic] to doe [sic] as we were aboute [sic] Landing The Last rank
Lieutenant Taylor Camedown and Said to me that he would advise me to goe [sic]
in both magazines[.] when [sic] I got on
board O accordingly don [sic] So and found Sum [sic] powder in 3 small tanks in
the fore magazine[.] I Satisfied My Self
[sic] by overhauling Every tsank with my owen [sic] hamds[.] Could not have my mates nether [sic] Could I
trust my quarter Gunner on that Ocation [sic] as Regard the Landinf of the
ammunition in bad Condition[.] The well
at that time was damp and wet.
“…I have to State to you that Since
I was a Boy I have been in the Service of My Much Loved Country[.] I never had any one to help me a Long [sic]
but what my officers thought I merited [sic][.]
I am now advanced in years and has [sic] a Small famley [sic] to provide for[.] Therefore if the Honorable Secretary adjudges
fault with me I fondly hope on account of my famley [sic] andage he will Look
favourably on my Case.”
From
Gunner A. S. Lewis, Baltimore, MD, 6 Aug 1855:
Requests orders to the Pensacola
Navy Yard. [Filed.]
From
Curate R. N. Butterworth, Killyleagh, Ireland, 7 Aug 1855:
Refers to his letter of February
last to which the Department responded that Seaman James Brown was in
CONSTITUTION, and that ship would return to Portsmouth, NH, in May. He has yet to be heard from. Is he dead or alive? [Annotated: “Dis 15 June ’55. Kittery.”]
From
George Foster, USS OHIO, 25 Aug 1855:
Recently discharged from
CONSTITUTION, and considered unqualified to take the examination for Boatswain
because of his age, requests the Purser be directed to pay him the 3 months pay
due him as a recipient of an Honorable Discharge. [Done.]
Roll 312 (September 1 – 30, 1855)
From
Joseph Silver, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 5 Sep 1855:
Over 60 years old, he has served
more than 27 years in the Navy, including having been 7 months in CONSTITUTION
under Hull on Home Station and 4 years under Macdonough in the
Mediterranean. Wishes authority to ship over
at Boston when his current hitch expires on the 25th next. [Denied.]
Rolls 313 through 647
NOT
SEEN
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The Captain's Clerk 1989, TGM |