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M 0125
IN
NATIONAL ARCHIVES (413 ROLLS)
Note: Only those rolls covering periods when CONSTITUTION was in squadron service have been researched.
Roll 1 (January 8 ‑ June 29, 1805)
Commodore
John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, to Consul William Jarvis,
"The Spindle which is the essential
part of the old Bowsprit..."
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Jun 1805:
Reports the signing of the Tripoline peace
treaty on 3 Jun and the liberation of the
Roll 2 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1805)
From
Commanding Officer, HMS PHOEBE, to Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 17
Jul 1805:
Has received petitions from Charles Wilson,
James Pearson, Stephen Kentle, and Edward Parker of CONSTITUTION wishing to surrender
themselves to him as deserters from HMS JUNO.
Has on board John Graves and John Pindar, deserters from CONSTITUTION,
as well as John Kelly and Allen Fish, American who he impressed from a ship at
sea. Willing to "trade."
Roll 3 (September 1 ‑ December 31, 1805)
NOTHING
Roll 4 (January 1 ‑ May 21, 1806)
NOTHING
Roll 5 (May 21 ‑ July 31, 1806)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 May 1806:
Acknowledges receipt of permission to
return to the
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 2 Jun 1806:
Believes his command of squadron is
temporary.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Jul 1806:
Most men transferred to CONSTITUTION from
other squadron units prior to their return to the US are deeply in debt to the
Department and presently bereft of clothing.
Requests stoppage of all allotments in order that they might be clothed.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Jul 1806 [2nd ltr]:
CONSTITUTION needs new standing rigging and
sails before winter, as well as spare cordage canvas, paints, etc. The hull is in good condition, but the rudder
head is "a little defective."
Roll 6 (August 1 ‑ December 31, 1806)
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Sep 1806:
Since writing from Cadiz on 28 Jul, has
visited the Barbary Coast. While
standing in to Larache [Morocco] on 14 Aug, met and examined the Russian
frigate [sic] SUWARROW [SUVAROV] (20 guns), which the Tsar received from the
British last year. Was informed they are
now at war with the Greeks. On 16 Aug,
anchored at Tangier, where all was well, and at Gibraltar on the 19th. Captain [David] Porter in ENTERPRIZE present;
told of being fired upon by Spanish gunboats off Algeciras on the 15th. I decided to let it pass as he gave better
than he got: no casualties and only some rigging damage.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Sep 1806 [2nd ltr]:
A serious defect had been found in the
foremast "a little above the hounds."
A long‑standing defect according to longer‑serving officers,
but, in combination with the worn standing rigging places the ship in
danger. Accordingly, thought it prudent
to put into Lisbon for repairs. Now
fitting fishes and a gang of new standing rigging. Left Gibraltar on the 3rd.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Oct 1806:
Foremast has proven unfit for service. A new set of courses and topsails
required. Understands the ship is to be
"called home next summer." Will
use old canvas for needed hammocks, etc.
Ship must be caulked "all over." A new anchor should be purchased. The new foremast will not be ready in less
than 20 days. (The same carpenter who
made the bowsprit is doing this job.)
References the mast's "main spindle."
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Oct 1806:
Midshipman Cheshire, court‑martialled
in JOHN ADAMS and transferred to NAUTILUS, was transferred to this ship at his
own request prior to her departure. Has
been repeatedly intoxicated and neglectful of duties. Sending him home for court‑martial on
charges of insolence, contempt toward a senior, and direct disobedience of
orders. Mentioned are Mr. Ludlow, 1st
Lt, and Mr. Wolsey, 2nd lt.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Oct 1806:
Dr. Simm died of consumption on the
11th. Interred at the Church Corpo
Santo, as he was a Catholic. Dr.
McAllister acting in his stead.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Nov 1806:
All now in order. Will leave "tomorrow." Would have left sooner, but on 28 Oct found
the fore and main stays were "stranded" and needed replacement. New ones received yesterday; being rigged
now. New anchor purchased from
Portuguese Navy.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Dec 1806:
Sailed from Lisbon on 9th and arrived at
Gibraltar on 18th, after calling at Cadiz.
Will depart on 22nd and call at Algiers enroute Tunis.
Roll 7 (January 1 ‑ May 31, 1807)
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 January 1807:
Left Gibraltar 22 Dec 1806 and arrived
Algiers 29 Dec. Sailed 4 Jan 1807 and
arrived Tunis 11 Jan. All is well with
newly returned Ambassador and his report of his mission to the US.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Jan 1807 [2nd ltr]:
Dr. McAllister, who replaced the deceased
Dr. Simm is himself now incapacitated, his left arm crippled by
rheumatism. There is no Surgeon aboard
to attend the 30 currently sick; only a loblolly boy who can do tooth
extractions and blood letting. Crew's health
is bad enough that he will not permit Colonel Lear to travel in the ship. Too, Dr. Heap is seriously ill at Messina,
his place in HORNET being taken by a Mate from ENTERPRIZE.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION 1 Feb 1807:
French and Spanish corsairs are now
attacking our shipping near Alicante, but resources with which to convoy them
are lacking ‑‑ even if the merchants would consider it. Thinks the Congress ought to pass a law
requiring insurers to mandate convoying as a part of their policies.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Feb 1807:
British now occupying Syracuse, placing
accommodations at a premium.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Feb 1807:
Our hospital at Syracuse is now being used
by the British. Would like to dispose of
2 gunboats and the trabacalos purchased in the Adriatic.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Feb 1807 [2nd ltr]:
Repairs at Lisbon cost L1961.8.7.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Feb 1807 [3rd ltr]:
When at Malta, was surprised to find Dr.
Heap fully recovered and immediately ordered him to duty in CONSTITUTION. Arrived at Syracuse on 2 Feb with HORNET,
which was met while inbound. Sailed on
16 Feb with HORNET, the latter to proceed to Leghorn.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, n. d.:
Arrived at Tunis 18 Feb and on the 24th
learned from Colonel Lear that all was well.
Called on the Bey on the 27th, and on 3 Mar called again to take leave.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Apr 1807:
ENTERPRIZE was in company on arrival at
Tunis. Sailed from Tunis on 7 Mar for
Algiers, leaving ENTERPRIZE behind to carry the Tunisian Ambassador to
Gibraltar. Arrived at Algiers on 20 Mar
and sailed again on the 23rd, arriving at Cagliari on the 30th to get fresh
provisions. Intend going to Malta next
when wind permits. [Sailed on 9 or 10
Apr.]
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 May 1807:
Arrived at Malta 13 Apr. Repairing head of ship, where head rails and bumpkins
were washed away on the night of 7 Mar in the Gulf of Tunis. A new mainsail from Lisbon was lost, as well
as a mizzen stormsail and the fore topmast staysail. Also repairing cabin bulkheads "which
received much damage on our passage from Algiers to Cagliari." Left Malta 2 May and intend leaving Syracuse
on the 25th for Leghorn enroute to Gibraltar where relief is expected.
Roll 8 (June 1 ‑ August 31, 1807)
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Aug 1807:
Left Syracuse 12 Jun and anchored at Malaga
on 2 Aug with HORNET. Received a Boston
newspaper and learned of CHESAPEAKE incident.
Will send ENTERPRIZE home as her crew's time has expired, and await
further news here. Has ordered the sale
of the trabacalos and all perishable articles at the hospital.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Aug 1807:
Your orders of 14 Jul received today from
the schooner BALD EAGLE.
Roll 9 (September 1 ‑ December 31, 1807)
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Sep 1807:
Left Syracuse on 12 Jun allowing time for
calls at Messina, Palermo, and Leghorn.
Arrived at Malaga 1 Aug and received report of the CHESAPEAKE
"misfortune." Of 8 carronades
on board, have mounted 2 on the forecastle and 2 in place of the after
quarterdeck guns. Have transferred the
other 4 to HORNET. 400 shot for these
guns have been purchased. Your 14 Jul
orders reached me on 18 Aug directing the return home of all public vessels as
secretly as possible. Names enclosed of
7 whose conduct has been so atrocious I am keeping in close confinement until
courts martial can be held [list missing].
From
Comodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Oct 1807:
"Defects of the Constitution and
Repairs necessary to put her in a State for Real Service
"Her
copper must be examined in consequence of a defect about the [obscured] That
Catch the cables when winding at Anchor---
A thorough Caulking of The upper works--
New Mainmast, Mizenmast [sic] doubtfull [sic], 1 fore and Main Topmast-- 1 fore, main, and Mizen Top Gt
Mast-- 1 Fore and Main Topsail yard-- 1
Cross Jack yard and set of Studdingsail Booms-- 1 Jibboom-- 1 compleat set of sails-- 4 Cables of 21 Inches--- A set of water Casks, at least a large
proportion of them.
"A set of boats-- A new Rudder At least a new Rudder
Head."
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Oct 1807 [2nd ltr]:
Forward charges against Marine
Sergeant Hughs and others he feels require court-martial.
[Enclosure]
From
Lieutenant Charles Ludlow, USS CONSTITUTION, Syracuse Harbor, 9 Jun 1807:
"Yesterday between 5 & 6
oclock in the evening I gave permission for the ships's company to bathe,
shortly after I came on deck andsaw two men swimming ahead of the ship towards
an English frigate[.] I immediately
inform'd the officer of the deck (Lt. Burrows) of their being further from the
Ship than usually allowed. He went
forward and call'd a number of times before they came and as soon as they got
on board took them forward to flog, (there being company on board and on the
quarter deck at the time)[.] A few
moments after I perceived a number of Men
rushing forward in the forecastle, who gave three cheers before I could
get forward to know the cause of the noise, at the same time saw Mr. Burrows on
one of the Guns surrounded by the men; After [sic] clearing them away he gave
me the following report:--
"That John Smith one of the above
mentioned men swimming from the ship) refused to take his jacket off or stand
and receive a ropes ending he intended giving him for not attending to his
orders, and the Boartswain's mate (George Prince) had hove his ropes end down
& refused to flog him, but previous to the Boatswain's mate refusing to
flog John Hughland came forward and told John Smith that he was a damned fool
if he pull'd his jacket off, at the same time told Mr. Burrows the man should
not be flog'd --- It was also reported to me, that Wm Pinkney (Boatswain's
mate) had taken up a crowbar near Mr. Burrows while the men were cheering--- After hearing this report, believing their
conduct very Mutinous I had Prince, Pinkney, Smith, & Hughland put
in Irons (the Guard during this time was under Arms) a few moments after the
ships company gave three cheers again, as if displeased at what had been done-- I immediately arm'd myself and desired the
officers to do the same (Mr. Amory Marine officer with all of his detachment
under Arms) but while arminig the Men broke out again with t here cheers &
a general cry among them, on the forecastle on the forecastle[sic],
where they were all rushing as fast as possible; I then had the drum beat to
quarters, which silenced them and they all went, except John Thompson who was
seen on the forecastle (by Mr. Chauncey and Mr. Willmore) pulling a man back
from his Quarters and crying out, on the forecastle very loudly after the drum
had beaten to Quarters--- I had Thompson put in irons and all the prisoners
brought from their usual pplace of confinement aft to the Cabin door with two
sentinels placed over them After which I muster'd the Men at t heir quarters,
beat the retreat and gave them their Hammocks----
"At 8 oclock had the starb'd
watch call'd, and the officers put ini two watches-- The officers, and marines of the Watch
arm'd-- All peaceable, and answer'd as
usual in the watch-- shortly after you cameon board-
"The boat that went for you, left
the Ship at thetime I desired the officers to Arm themselves.--
"Mr. Burrows, Mr. Rouchas, Mr.
McLaughlin, and Mr. Nicholson, was witness to the conduct of Prince, Pinkney,
Smith & Hughland-- Mr. Chauncey
& Mr. Willmore to Thompson's conduct----"
[Enclosure]
From Lieutenant William Lewis, USS CONSTITUTION, Syracuse Harbor, n.d.:
"While in the Harbour of
Syracuse, on the 30th day of May 1807, being my day of duty, the
officer (Mr. Wilmore) who had been with a party of men at the arsenal all day, on returning at sunset,
reported two or three of them for having run away from the arsenal into the
Town, where, after a long search, he had found them drunk. Wiliam Jones was one of them. On examination I found him very drunk, &
inclined to be insolent; which provoked me to strike him. He was then, exceedingly insolent, & as I
thought mutinous, saying repeatedly that his "time was up," and I had
"no right to punish him", Damn the service, & said he was a
"true Englishman," & I think threatened to demand English
protection. The Endymion (Engh
Frigate) was lying in the harbour ---
"I ordered him to be put in irons. While the Master at Arms was doing this he
continued to use the expressions I have mentioned, and others equally improper,
& was so riotous that I was obliged to go down myself & use force to
quiet him. Messrs Wilmer and
Shields are witnesses to the particulars of the above statement. Mr. Woolsey also, saw good deal of his
riotous conduct after he was confined."
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 19 Oct 1807:
Reported having on board from Leghorn the
15‑ton Tripoli monument.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Nov 1807:
Your orders for taking the ship to New York
received 30 Oct. Expect to sail 3 Nov.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Nov 1807:
Still waiting for a fair wind.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Nov 1807:
Arrived last evening after tedious 13‑day
voyage. Be advised George Prince shipped
over in CONSTITUTION to return to US.
John Hewlan, Ordy, transferred to ship from SIREN.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Nov 1807:
The ship needs a new mainmast and probably
mizzen, a new complete set of sails, a fore topmast, main topmast, all
topgallant masts, fore and main topsail yards, a crossjack, a set of
studdingsail booms, jibboom, a gang of topmast and topgallant mast rigging, 4
21" cables, a set of boats, and many water casks.
From
Commodore Isaac Chauncey, New York Navy Yard, 1 Dec 1807:
Do I overhaul CONSTITUTION's rigging or
just stow it? CONSTITUTION's Carpenter
wishes orders to this yard.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Dec 1807:
Paying off the crew began today and should
complete by noon tomorrow. Guns, stores,
and standing rigging still aboard should it be wanted for heaving down. Orders on officer furloughs just received.
From
Commodore Isaac Chauncey, New York Navy Yard, 12 Dec 1807:
Orders received on CONSTITUTION's
repairs. Will use gunboats crews to
offload her stores and guns, beginning today.
From
Commodore Hugh G. Campbell, New York, NY, 12 Dec 1807:
Resigned command of CONSTITUTION to
Commodore Chauncey on 8 Dec. Have given
furloughs to Lieutenant and Midshipman Ludlow (30 days each), Lieutenant
Woolsey (8 weeks), Lieutenant Burrows (1 month), Dr. Heap, Mr. Shields,
Midshipman Chancey [sic] (20 days), Midshipman Anderson (2 months), Midshipman
Marshall the same. I will leave New York
about 17 Dec for Washington, pausing a week at Philadelphia. Bothered by rheumatism.
From
Commodore Isaac Chauncey, New York Navy Yard, 22 Dec 1807:
CONSTITUTION's wales too soft to permit
driving oakum home when caulking. It
appears all will have to be replaced.
From
Commodore Isaac Chauncey, New York Navy Yard, 26 Dec 1807:
CONSTITUTION requires much more repair than
previously reported. The wales, the
counter, and much side planking needs replacement. Have not yet had to hire more laborers; using
gunboat crews. Will minimize expense
wherever possible.
Roll 10 (January 1 ‑ March 31, 1808)
From
Commodore Isaac Chauncey, New York Navy Yard, 30 Jan 1808:
A list of personnel at the Yard identifies
the following men in CONSTITUTION: Boatswain's Mate French Kellan [sic]; Seamen
George Swinburn (a native of England) and Laurence Nielson (a Swede); Ordinary
Seamen James Remond (an Irishman), John Thompson (a Dane), John Reinholts (a
Dane); and Mattio Monocco (a Neapolitan).
From
Commodore John Rodgers, New York Station, 1 Mar 1808:
Twenty 32‑pdr carronades needed for
CONSTITUTION, not 16 as I wrote before.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, New York Station, 17 Mar 1808:
CONSTITUTION will be ready to receive her
guns by the time the carronade carriages are completed. The old main deck carriages can be used for
the new [long] guns.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, New York Station, 24 Mar 1808:
Have begun making carronade carriages per
your orders of the 21st. Iron work yet
to begin.
Roll 11 (April 1 ‑ June 28, 1808)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, New York, Station, 12 Apr 1808:
Notes SecNav orders of 18 Feb to discharge
all foreigners: George Swinburn, Mattias Monocco, John Thompson, Lawrence
Neilson, and John Reinholts among them.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, New York Station, 29 Apr 1808:
CONSTITUTION hove "keel out"
yesterday. "...discovered that her
Main Keel, directly in the wake of the scarf of the Stem, was considerably
mutilated for the space of 3 1/2 feet, and that about sixty feet of her false
keel was entirely off ‑‑ The defects in both, however, will be
repaired, I am in hopes, by tomorrow night ‑‑ The Copper is found
so good, generally, as to prevent the necessity of replacing it; indeed
I think the old, which was originally in weight thirty six ounces to the square
foot, better than the new now in store, as the latter is only 28 ounces ‑‑
I am in hopes we shall find the copper on the opposite side equally good ‑‑
Experiments have been made on several sheets of copper promiscuously taken from
different parts of the Bottom, and the average weight found to be 34 ounces to
the square foot, ... and considering that it has been six years on her
Bottom...is a sufficient proof of its superior quality..."
From
Commodore John Rodgers, New York Station, 5 May 1808:
CONSTITUTION was righted last night
"on the starboard side after having repaired the defects in the scarf of
the stem, and false keel." Larboard
side to be "hove out Monday, the 9th," and hopes to complete it that
day.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, New York Station, 14 May 1808:
CONSTITUTION's bottom finished last
evening. The copper was good.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, New York Station, 23 Jun 1808:
Carpenters will be done in CONSTITUTION
"in a few days."
Roll 12 (July 2 ‑ September 1808)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, New York Station, 14 Jul 1808:
Need carronades for CONSTITUTION: unable to
complete carriages without them.
CONSTITUTION powder, 146 barrels, needs remanufacturing. Not enough powder here to replace it. This Yard needs a magazine.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, New York Station, 25 Jul 1808:
The powder will be delivered for
remanufacture to John Bullus as ordered.
Roll 13 (October 1 ‑ December 29, 1808)
NOTHING
Roll 14 (January 1 ‑ March 31, 1809)
From
Captain Isaac Chauncey, New York Navy Yard, 3 Feb 1809:
What shall I do with the old CONSTITUTION
copper?
From
Commodore John Rodgers, Havre de Grace, MD, 5 Feb 1809:
Acknowledges orders to command
CONSTITUTION.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, New York, NY, 13 Feb 1809:
Officers now in CONSTITUTION: Lieutenants
Charles Ludlow (joined this date) and Samuel Angus; Sailing Master Wm F. Baggot
[sic]; Midshipmen R. H. J. Perry, Daniel Turner, Lawrence Kearney, John H.
Elton, John M. Funck, Augustus C. Ludlow, G. C. Read, Samuel Renshaw, and Seth
Nicholson; Boatswain George Nicholson; Gunner Robert Huntress; and Carpenter
Livingston Shannon. Lieutenant Trenchard
is still in command of Gunboat 43 at Passamaquoddy with Midshipman Adams under
him. Midshipman Hite is in Gunboat 50 at
New Bedford. Lieutenant Mitchell is in
ARGUS at Boston. CONSTITUTION,
therefore, still needs 3 lieutenants.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Feb 1809:
CONSTITUTION needs 800 32‑lb. and 500
24‑lb. shot. Shall I have them
made here?
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Feb 1809:
Acknowledges letter of 21st ordering the
Navy Agent at New York to purchase shot for CONSTITUTION.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Mar 1809:
Neither Surgeon's Mate ordered to
CONSTITUTION has reported. "Mr.
Butler" writes he is sick abed but will report when able.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Mar 1809 [2nd ltr]:
CONSTITUTION will be ready for powder the
1st of next month. She will need a total
of 250 barrels in all.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Mar 1809:
Merchant seamen are currently getting $20‑25
a month, making recruiting difficult.
Recommends a bounty.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Mar 1809:
It is rumored that $12/mo. and 3 mos.
advance are being offered at Boston, Philadelphia, and Baltimore, while my last
orders were $10/mo. and 2 mos. advance.
Is it true?
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Mar 1809:
CONSTITUTION needs "a detachment of
Marines."
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Mar 1809 [2nd ltr]:
Has given Midshipman Renshaw, in "a
deep decline," a furlough to recover.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CHESAPEAKE, 31 Mar 1809:
Reports that ARGUS will leave
"tomorrow" with 50 men for CONSTITUTION. In a few days will send more in Gunboat 57 or
a coaster.
Roll 15 (April 1 ‑ June 28, 1809)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Apr 1809:
Requests a warrant for Carpenter Livingston
Shannon.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Apr 1809:
Requests permission to discharge of
Corporal George Campbell of CONSTITUTION, a deserter.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Apr 1809:
CONSTITUTION's ordinary seamen and boys are
nearly complete; has 2/3 of her petty officers, but needs nearly 100 seamen due
to merchant ships offering $25‑35 a month.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Apr 1809:
Regrets the transfer of Surgeon's Mate
Reynolds tomorrow to UNITED STATES. He
is "far superior" to his peers.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Apr 1809:
Regrets transfer of Midshipman Elton, an
energetic, mentally alert, modest, amicable young man.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Apr 1809:
Orders to lay up all gunboats
received. All able‑bodied men in
excess of two per boat will be transferred to CONSTITUTION.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Apr 1809:
Acknowledges orders returning Surgeon's
Mate Reynolds to CONSTITUTION.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Apr 1809:
CONSTITUTION needs 5 quarter gunners, 6
quartermasters, and 60‑65 seamen to complete the crew. May get 10 or 12 from the gunboats.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 May 1809:
Will order Lieutenant Trenchard from
Gunboat 43 to ARGUS. Requests Lieutenant
Haswell, now on Lake Champlain, as his replacement.
From Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION,
14 May 1809:
Acknowledges report of Haswell being
ordered to the ship.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 May 1809:
Acknowledges receipt of warrant for
Carpenter Shannon.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 11 Jun 1809:
Requests a court martial for Sergeant
Charles Henry of CONSTITUTION on charges of drunkenness on guard and unbecoming
conduct.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, 28 Jun 1809:
Says Midshipman Thomas Gamble is
indefatigable in attention to duty and correct in his deportment.
Roll 16 (July 1 ‑ September 30, 1809)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Jul 1809:
Midshipman Morton Jackson died on 1 Jul
after a 6‑day illness thought to have been caused by his ingesting too
much ice when overheated.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Jul 1809:
Acknowledges orders transferring Lieutenant
[Charles] Ludlow to command of VIXEN and Lieutenant George W. Reed to replace
him in CONSTITUTION. Ludlow took command
today. Reed has not yet reported. Lieutenant Haswell joined on the 7th.
CONSTITUTION still needs Marine officers, and the Marines need clothing.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Jul 1809:
Lieutenant Reed has yet to join.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Jul [2nd ltr]:
Acknowledges furlough for Midshipman Thomas
Gamble to make his merchant voyage.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Jul 1809 [3rd ltr]:
Requests 12 rifles for CONSTITUTION is
available. Wants them for use against
enemy officers from the fighting tops.
[Annotated: Any rifles here? If not let them be purchased... P.H.]
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Jul 1809:
Will victual the ship for 2 months. She still needs 4 quartermasters, a quarter
gunner, 41 seamen, a Carpenter, and a Boatswain. Current Carpenter has resigned and the
Boatswain has been in sick quarters for 3 months with a poor prognosis.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 19 Jul 1809:
Lieutenant Reed joined on the 18th; he
wishes to resign.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Jul 1809:
Enclosed is Midshipman [Seth] Nicholson's
resignation. He is no loss.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Jul 1809:
The ship is ready for sea except for noted
personnel shortages. Expect transfers
from CHESAPEAKE will fill needs but for 20 seamen. Will put to sea as soon as they arrive.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Jul 1809:
Forwards letter from Gunner Huntress, who
has been AWOL since the 19th. He is no
loss: hardly smarter than a well‑bred horse.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Jul 1809:
Sailing Master William F Bagot has been
AWOL since the 13th. Have ordered
Sailing Master James E Carr from ARGUS to replace him. Bagot is an inveterate drunk.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Jul 1809:
Lieutenant Reed accepts your denial of his
resignation.
From Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION,
4 Aug 1809:
Acknowledges receipt of acceptance of
Gunner Huntress' resignation.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CHESAPEAKE, 9 Aug 1809:
Required men shipped to CONSTITUTION.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Aug 1809:
Men from CHESAPEAKE arrived last night.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Aug 1809:
Forwards resigned Midshipman Edward S.
Smith's warrant.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Aug 1809:
Has ordered Lieutenant Haswell to WASP.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Aug 1809:
After trying for 4 days to clear the
Narrows, is finally at sea. New York is
a bad rendezvous for the heavy frigates.
CONSTITUTION draws 23 feet when loaded with 6 months provisions.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Aug 1809:
Just arrived at Newport. Will be back at New York by 1 Sep. Happy with crew.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Sep 1809:
"The Constitution I find possesses all
her former good qualities, and with a little more practice, I think her crew
will be a very good one."
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Sep 1809:
Departed New York this date. Will cruise the coast for 2 weeks.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Sep 1809:
Arrived New York this date. Nothing of note on cruise other than the loss
of the main topmast and fore topmast on 10 Sep in light to moderate breezes
when some 18 miles to seaward of Montauk Point.
Also lost the mizzen topgallant mast and all royal yards. Believe white pine masts are weak; yellow or
pitch pine preferred. Seaman John
Cockran [sic], masthead lookout, was lost in the accident. Requests replacement masts be ordered in the
rough from Norfolk, 58' long to finish 24" for the main and 54' long to
finish 22" for the fore. If they
can't be shipped, request sailing orders to Norfolk.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Sep 1809:
Acknowledges sailing orders for Norfolk.
Roll 17 (October 2 ‑ December 31, 1809)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 Oct 1809:
Lieutenant F. J. Mitchell has been
furloughed; Midshipman Thomas Gamble attached to CONSTITUTION as Acting
Lieutenant.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Oct 1809:
Forwards the warrant of resigning
Midshipman Phineas Masters, found objectionable "by almost every
officer" in the ship. Only 14 years
old and incorrigible.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Oct 1809:
Has ordered Midshipman T. Gamble to
PRESIDENT as directed.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Oct 1809:
Consider reinstating Sailing Master Bagot. I am willing to give him another chance. Mr. Carr, now filling in, is anxious to leave
the service.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Oct 1809:
Foul winds have kept me at New York since
the 11th.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Oct 1809:
Have ordered Midshipman A. Ludlow to SIREN
as Acting Lieutenant.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Oct 1809 [2nd ltr]:
Dr. Griffin joined yesterday and has
relieved Dr. Thorn.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Oct 1809:
To sea this morning.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Oct 1809:
Arrived Hampton Roads this morning, a 45‑hour
passage. Will cruise 10‑12 days
after getting in masts and return to New York.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, 3 Nov 1809:
To sea this morning, masts in. Expects to be at New York in a week.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Nov 1809:
Just arrived at New York. Had much bad weather, but ship handled
well. Preparing to overhaul rigging and
repaint her.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Nov 1809 [2nd ltr]:
Lieutenant John Brooks, USMC, ordered to
Washington to settle accounts.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Nov 1809:
Dr.
Reynolds furloughed as ordered. [Appears
to have tuberculosis.]
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 2 Dec 1809:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to discharge
Private William Seely of CONSTITUTION.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Dec 1809:
Midshipman George Pearce of this ship
ordered to JOHN ADAMS.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Dec 1809:
Acknowledges information that another
Marine officer will replace Lieutenant Brooks.
Roll 18 (January 1 ‑ April 30, 1810)
From
Captain John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Feb 1810:
Returns the warrant of Midshipman
[James] Bailey, a "genteel" young man too old to be a Midshipman.
From
Captain John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Feb 1810:
Acknowledges information that
"Mr. Thompson (Mathematician)" had been ordered to join the ship for
four months, then rotate for similar periods to other ships in commission.
From
Captain John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Feb 1810:
Reports that Midshipman John J.
Edwards has reported himself returned from a merchant voyage and was assigned
to CONSTITUTION by himself.
From
Captain John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Mar 1810:
Forwards resignation of Midshipman
[Samuel] Dusenberry of CONSTITUTION, "an amiable young man, but he is, by
no means, calculated for the Service."
From
Captain John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Mar 1810:
Ship is ready for sea. Intends to sail on the 18th or 20th and
"stretch south" to Port Royal, SC, then return north to Annapolis,
MD, then back to New York, a period of 4‑5 weeks.
From
Captain John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Mar 1810:
Will remain in port until the 30th, as
ordered. HORNET will accompany on
"southern tour."
From
Captain John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 31 Mar 1810:
Acknowledges receipt of letter
"just at the moment of my departure from New York."
From
Captain John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Apr 1810:
Is cruising off Sandy Hook, ARGUS in
company, awaiting HORNET. Due to a
shortage of provisions, now intends sailing only to Norfolk and Annapolis
before returning to New York.
From Captain John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION,
11 Apr 1810:
Still off Sandy Hook, has sent
Lieutenant Ralph Izard ashore to sick quarters "with a hypochondriacal
turn of mind" and expects he will resign his commission. Requests a replacement.
Roll 19 (May 1 ‑ August 30, 1810)
From
Captain John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 May 1810:
"On the 2nd inst I sent into this
place the ships Galconda [sic] of New York & Rose of Phila for a violation
of the Non‑Intercourse Law; having met with them near Sandy Hook, and
within the Jurisdiction limits of the united states [sic] where they had been
seen several days prior to my meeting with them.
"The above ships were from
Liverpool with cargos of British manufacture on board & I was necessarily
obliged to anchor on the 11th inst inside of sandy [sic] Hook for the purpose
of consulting with & stating their cases to the District Attorney, &
which I shall make you acquaintance with a more particular manner the instant
my [1 word] will permit me to do so‑‑ I shall put to Sea the moment the [wind] will
permit."
From
Captain John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 May 1810:
"I have to inform you, that on
the Second Instant, Sandy Hook bearing W. by N. Distant about four Miles, I
fell in with, and sent into New York for adjudication, the ships Golconda of
New York, and Rose of Philadelphia, for a violation of the Non‑Intercourse
Law‑‑ The circumstances
under which I met with these Ships, were such as made it my duty to send them
into Port, to be dealt with as the Law directed, as they were direct from
Liverpool, with cargoes (the Manufactures of England) on board; In addition to
which, the Rose had no individual paper, to prove the legality of her Voyage, or
even to what Nation she belonged, except her Register‑‑ Your will observe, that it was on the 2d of
May I detained the above Vessels, consequently as the Law expired on the first
of May by its own limitation, it may be decided by the Court authorized to decide
on their Cases, that they had not incurred the penalties of the Law: and which
I presumed will be the case, should I not be able to prove that they had been
within the Jurisdictional limits of the U. States, previous to the day on which
I met them. This, I am in hopes I shall
be able to do, not only because I should wish to see those, capable of
violating the Law, punished; but on my own personal account as in case of their
acquittal, I presumed their owners will bring a suit against me for damages, in
consequence of some supposed Injuries they sustained in their Spars and Rigging
after they were detained‑‑ Be the result however what it may, it will
not prevent my proceeding in a similar way again, should I be similarly
Circumstanced, as the desire of doing my duty with scrupulous tenacity, will
always (I hope) outweigh every other Consideration, and should I ever be
brought to think differently it alone will be sufficient Cause for my quitting
the service in one hour after."
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 May 1810:
On the way to Annapolis.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 May 1810:
Arrived Annapolis this date with ARGUS
and HORNET in company.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Jun 1810:
Intends to proceed to Hampton Roads
"tomorrow."
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Jun 1810:
Forwards warrant of Midshipman
Marcellin "a Young Man destitute of every principle that constitutes a
Gentleman, at the same time a Drunkard‑‑ What gives me most pain is that he is Brother
to Lieut Marcellin, who is a very deserving and correct Young Man..."
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Jun 1810:
Arrived this date at Hampton Roads
with ARGUS and HORNET. Will shift to
PRESIDENT "tomorrow," leaving Captain Hull in command of
CONSTITUTION, who will be sent to Boston to get a cable for the ship from
CHESAPEAKE.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 19 Jun 1810:
Exchanged commands with Captain Hull
on the 17th. Hull has reported ready for
sea and been ordered to Boston "with all...dispatch," there to await
his arrival.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 20 Jun 1810:
Mentions Marine Lieutenant [P. W.]
Winthrop in
CONSTITUTION.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 24 Jun 1810:
CONSTITUTION still in sight,
struggling aganst adverse winds to leave
Chesapeake Bay.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 27 Jun 1810:
Underway. Intends to proceed to vicinity of New York
with SIREN in company, there to be joined by WASP. Thence to Boston to be joined by
CONSTITUTION, and to patrol as far as Passamaquoddy before returning to Hampton
Roads about 15 Jul.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 5 Jul 1810:
Has changed plans and ordered
CONSTITUTION to join him in Hampton Roads about 15 Jul.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Jul 1810:
Reports that due to adverse winds and
the ship's "dull sailing" he did not arrive off Boston until 6 Jul,
and that adverse winds since then have prevented his entering port. Has informed Commodore Rodgers that he can't
be in Hampton Roads on 15 Jul. Mentions
Midshipman Jasper.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Jul 1810:
Reports he has taken Midshipman [Wm
B.] Hall into the ship as a replacement for Midshipman Jasper, who will be
furloughed at Norfolk, to be Acting Master's Mate. Also has taken aboard Midshipman [William]
Laughton in place of Midshipman Pitt, who reported in a sickly condition and
was transferred to CHESAPEAKE.
[Annotated: "All approved."]
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Jul 1810:
Expects to sail "this
evening" and hasten to Hampton Roads.
Bottom still requires cleaning, and will attend to that then. Has taken on board 50,000 gallons of water and
3 months' stores.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Jul 1810:
Has withdrawn Sailing Master [George
S.] Wade's warrant and turned him out of the ship. He had had bad words with the First
Lieutenant, [Chas.] Morris, that can't be overlooked or withdrawn. [Annotated: "I approve highly of Captain
Hull's decision."]
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Jul 1810:
Attempted to sail last evening, but
wind came ahead and had to anchor in lighthouse channel. Hopes pilot will be able to warp them out
this date.
From Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 15
Jul 1810:
Reports that when CONSTITUTION
departed Hampton Roads earlier, she had not been able to clear the Capes until
27 Jun.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 22 Jul 1810:
Reports CONSTITUTION in sight,
standing into Hampton Roads. Has
exchanged signals with her.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 23 Jul 1810:
CONSTITUTION anchored in the Roads at
4 PM yesterday.
From
Captain Isaac Hull USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Jul 1810:
Reports that while at Boston he
assessed the ship's trim, ballasting, rigging, and every other factor he could
think of that might have caused her lack of speed. He concluded that a "very foul"
hull must be the reason. In calml
weather on the voyage south, he put divers over from the ship's boats "and
in a very few moments they brought me nearly a bucketfull" of mussels and
oysters. Ten "waggon loads"
was estimated. "The men that were
under her bottom described them hanging like bunches of grapes, only much
longer... There were some thousands in
each bunch and adhering so closely together that it required some Stength to
separate them..."
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Jul 1810:
Reports having furloughed Midshipman
[Stephen] Wilson, who is ill with a "not very gentlemanly" disease,
and who failed to remedy the situation on a previous furlough "much to the
dread of his messmates." Midshipman
Jasper has decided against furlough and will remain in the ship, which pleases
Hull as he likes Jasper.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 5 Aug 1810:
Reports getting to sea "this
morning" with CONSTITUTION and ARGUS.
The former will proceed immediately to Newcastle, DE, to clean her
bottom.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Aug 1810:
Submits muster roll, noting he is
short of seamen. Requests permission to
recruit at Philadelphia and elsewhere.
Also need a Sailing Master.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Aug 1810:
Reports he arrived at Newcastle last
evening. Intends moving up to Chester,
PA, "this evening." Midshipmen
Tayloe and Hamilton given 10 days' furlough to visit Washington.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Aug 1810:
Reports from off Wilmington that
"since the ships arrival in fresh water the mussels on her bottom have all
opened, and the inside entirely washed out with the run of the tide, and they
are fast falling off‑‑ The
oysters I find do not feel the effect of the fresh Water so sensibly, yet I
have great hopes that a few days more will cause them to open and fall off in
the same manner as the mussels."
Shells are being "scrubbed" off. Sends a second sample, showing how much larger
the animals are than in the first.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Aug 1810:
Reports he decided against going as
far up the river as Chester for fear of grounding where UNITED STATES did. The mussels are almost all gone, but the
oysters persist. Fortunately, they are
far less numerous than the mussels.
Divers sent down this day report the copper is rough in places and some
of the nails have started. Will attempt
to patch a spot bare of copper up forward.
Expects to depart for New York about the 23rd.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 24 Aug 1810:
Has ordered Lieutenant [James] Biddle
from CONSTITUTION to PRESIDENT.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 24 Aug 1810:
Intends to order Gunner William Taylor
to CONSTITUTION.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 27 Aug 1810:
Captain Hull reports he thinks he has
cleared CONSTITUTION's hull of all the marine growth. He reports that Hull plans to sail from
Newcastle "tomorrow" and cruise for about three weeks; requests
permission to put in to New London then.
Roll 20 (September 3 ‑ December 31, 1810)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 4 Sep 1810:
"The Constitution arrived off
Sandy Hook yesterday, where she will remain until I join her. She sails (I understand from Capt. Hull) much
better since she has been in the Delaware."
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 17 Sep 1810:
"A few days since I had an opportunity of comparing the sailing of the President & Constitution & I think, since the latter has got her bottom cleansed, that she is the fastest sailing Vessel that the President has met with, since I commanded her; indeed, the difference is not very material, altho' the President is decidedly the fastest Ship of the two‑‑"
"...I was induced to direct Capt.
Hull to go into Boston with the Constitution, on the 15th Instant, and to sail
again on the 25h for his station off the Delaware..."
[Annotated: "I am pleased with
the performance of the President & the improvement of the
Constitution. P.H."]
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Sep 1810:
Departing Boston. Intends to proceed to a point east of Georges
Bank, then make for the southern end of his patrol ground and then head for New
York. Has furloughed Midshipman [James]
Hall to make a merchant voyage and ordered Midshipman [William B.] Reily [sic]
in his place.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Oct 1810:
Arrived of Chesapeake Bay on the 6th,
and ran in to avoid bad weather. Sailed
this morning to proceed to Delaware Bay and then Sandy Hook.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 12 Oct 1810:
CONSTITUTION arrived off Sandy Hook
"last evening." Hull reports
having seen no foreign men of war.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 14 Oct 1810:
Has ordered Midshipman [Nathaniel D.]
Nicholson from CONSTITUTION to ENTERPRIZE.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 17 Oct 1810:
Reports the death of CONSTITUTION
Midshipman [Richard] Rodgers in a duel with Midshipman [Charles W.] Morgan, who
was wounded. The latter has been
arrested while the seconds, Midshipman {Archibald: SecNav's son] Hamilton and
Surgeons' Mate [Samuel] Gilliland have been suspended from duty. As the seconds did all in their power to
affect a reconciliation and as all the rules of honor were observed, requests
permission to return the three to duty with reprimand. Rodgers was buried at Sandy Hook.
Isaac Hull, in his enclosed report of
16 Oct 1810, states that Morgan was wounded in the breast. [No mention is made of the cause of the
duel.]
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 17 Oct 1810 [2nd ltr]:
Sailed from Sandy Hook at 10 this
morning with CONSTITUTION. She has been
detached to proceed to Newcastle.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Oct 1810:
Anchored off Newcastle "last
evening." Reports the death of
Midshipman [Thomas S.] Sprogle, who fell overboard from the main chains as the
ship stood in to Delaware Bay and drowned before help could reach him. Has no orders from Commodore Rodgers as to
how long he is to remain at Newcastle.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Oct 1810 [2nd ltr]:
Reports having discharged John Burnett
on 6 Oct upon arrival at Sandy Hook. Got
him a passage ashore in the pilot boat and informed him that his mother was in
a "distressed state" and wished him home immediately. That was his intention; what has happened to
him since is unknown.
From
Captain Isaac Hull USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Oct 1810:
Reports that Midshipman Sprogle could
not swim and sank almost immediately ‑‑ a few feet from the life
buoy that had been thrown to him.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, to Samuel R. Marshall, n. d.:
Discusses the distribution of prize
money for the captures made by Gunboat 98, CONSTITUTION's tender, under the
command of Midshipman John H. Elton.
[Elton was attached to CONSTITUTION Jun 1808‑Apr 1809.]
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Nov 1810:
Acknowledges receipt of order to
discharge [Private] John Davis.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Nov 1810:
Reports the departure of "Mr.
[Midshipman Archibald] Hamilton" on this date.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 10 Nov 1810:
Reports having ordered Captain Hull to
New London from Newcastle.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Nov 1810:
Reports receiving a letter for a
Midshipman Blair accepting his resignation, but notes that Blair never has been
in the ship.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Nov 1810:
Reports having received orders from
Commodore Rodgers to proceed to New London.
Intend to move to the mouth of the river "tomorrow" and await
a favorable wind.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 28 Nov 1810:
"I have the honour to acquaint
you that the Merchant Sloop Income of Rochester (Massachusetts) arrived here
yesterday in charge of Midn Riley of the Constitution by whom I received a
letter from Capt. Hull informing me of his having fallen in with said Sloop on
the 25th Inst., bound to Charleston (& from what I can learn from Mr.
Riley, about thirty leagues South East of Block Island) that she had in a Gale two
days before lost her Master overboard, and there being no person left on board,
capable of navigating her to her destined port, he was induced to put Midn
Riley on board with orders to navigate her to this place for the benefit of her
owners."
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Dec 1810:
Reports the loss of Seamen Samuel
Francis and Caleb Martin. Francis fell
from the mizzen shrouds, struck the mizzen chains, hit the water, and sank as
the ship was coming down the Delaware River.
She was clear of the Delaware Capes and making 8 knots before the wind
with all sail set when Martin fell overboard at the bow while helping to stow
an anchor. Life buoys were cut away on
both sides, and one was seen to be about five yards from him. Unfortunately, the strong wind blew the buoy
away faster than he could swim, and he drowned.
A subscription was taken for the support of Francis' mother and widow in
Philadelphia and an unexpectedly large amount (unspecified) was pledged.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 19 Dec 1810:
Acknowledges recceipt of order to have
Captain Hull discharge one Julian Oreille, aka Jean Gaspard.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS PRESIDENT, to Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 17
Dec 1810:
States that Lieutenant [Thomas R.]
Swift, in charge of his Marine Guard, reports his men extremely short of proper
winter clothing.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 23 Dec 1810:
Reports having ordered Midshipman
Charles Fowle, previously ordered to ARGUS by SecNav, to CONSTITUTION.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 27 Dec 1810:
Requests authority to convene a court
martial for Seaman John Wilson, who deserted from CONSTITUTION on 1 Feb
1810. [So ordered.]
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 30 Dec 1810:
States that John Cockeran [sic] was
lost overboard from the main topmast head of CONSTITUTION on 10 Sep 1809 when
the topmast gave way.
Roll 21 (January 1 ‑ May 31, 1811)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 2 Jan 1811:
CONSTITUTION is ready for service
except for water, provisions, and some cordage.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 14 Jan 1811:
Acknowledges receipt of authority to
court martial John Wilson, a deserter from CONSTITUTION.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 16 Jan 1811:
Reports that CONSTITUTION Sailmaker
John Mankins has been furloughed due to ill health.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 8 Feb 1811:
Requests authority to convene a court
martial to try Ordinary Seaman Samuel McClarey and Seaman John Loring of
CONSTITUTION for mutinous and seditious conduct and disrespect to a superior on
the night of 5 Feb 1810 [sic].
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 17 Feb 1811 [enclosure]:
"List
of Men belonging late to the U. S. Schooner Revenge transferred to the U. S.
Frigate Constitution.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 19 Feb 1811:
Acknowledges receipt of authority to
court martial Samuel Mcclarey and John Loring.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, to Commodore John Rodgers, 20 Feb 1811:
Reports a duel between Midshipmen
Joseph Brailsford and Charles M. Fowle in which the latter waas wounded in the
thigh. Brailsford, together with the
seconds, Midshipmen William Laughton and John Packet, are under arrest aboard
ship. All have been guilty of
unofficerlike conduct in the past, and on such occasions have been suspended
from duty. He wishes them ordered from
the ship.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 21 Feb 1811:
Reports CONSTITUTION can be ready for
sea in four hours.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 24 Feb 1811:
Requests authority to conduct a court
martial on Boatswain's Mate John Nease and Seaman John Read of CONSTITUTION on
a charge of sedition.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 8 Mar 1811:
Forwards a chart of New London harbor
made by Lieutenant Charles Morris, First Lieutenant of CONSTITUTION, which
"does him much credit."
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 9 Mar 1811:
Per the Secretary's orders Midshipmen
Brailsford and Packett [sic] have been ordered from CONSTITUTION to ARGUS;
Midshipmen Fowle and Laughton will be returned to duty.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 9 Mar 1811 [2nd ltr]:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
transfer Charles Cotton, Surgeon's Mate, to CONSTITUTION.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 12 Mar 1811:
"I have the satisfaction to
acquaint you that the boats of this Ship & the Constitution yesterday saved
the Merchant Brig Harriet (belonging to the house of Pierce & Beach,
Merchants of Harford [sic], of this State) from being wrecked, after she had
got on a Rock, near the entrance of this harbour, on which at low water, there
was three feet less water than she drew, & after she had been on the same
twelve hours‑‑ This is the
second vessel which our boats have saved from destruction within these foour
weeks."
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 16 Mar 1811:
Reports the death of Midshipman
Brailsford on the 15th ffrom the wound suffered in a duel.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 16 Mar 1811 [2nd ltr]:
Has authorized Captain Hull to
furlough Midshipman [William] Jasper for the purpose of making a merchant
voyage.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 19 Mar 1811:
CONSTITUTION will leave for Boston
"immediately." As about 150 of
her men are shortly due discharge, Captain Hull is to open a rendezvous to
recruit their replacements.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Mar 1811:
Has discharged John Barley per orders.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Mar 1811:
Arrived Boston this date.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 29 Mar 1811:
Acknowledges receipt of authority to
court martial Boatswain's Mate Nease and Seaman Read of CONSTITUTION, both of
whom are now confined in PRESIDENT.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 30 Mar 1811:
Acknowledges receipt of orders placing
ARGUS, a smaller ship, in Delaware Bay instead of CONSTITUTION.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, 6 Apr 1811:
"I yesterday received a letter
from Capt Hull, dated the 2nd Inst. informing that he had seized the American
ship Lothaire for supposed violation of the Non Intercourse Law; she having
sailed from Liverpool, with a cargo of British Manufactures, since the 2d of
February 1811; altho' she had previous to that date cleared out for Boston‑‑ I have this moment received a second letter
from Capt Hull informing me of his having released the Lothaire in consequence
of the opinion of Mr. Blake (District Attorney)..."
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 May 1811:
Intends sailing for Annapolis on the
13th. Recruiting has been insufficient
to make up loss of nearly 100 of crew.
Will want about 30 able seamen.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 May 1811:
Awaiting a fair wind. Has stationed Marines at the great guns to
make up for his deficiency in seamen.
[Annotated: "disapproved."]
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 May 1811:
Heading for sea. One 22" anchor cable found rotten and
surveyed; another required before going on extended service.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 May 1811:
Reports arrival at Annapolis this
date.
Mentions Purser Garretson.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 May 1811:
Mentions Midshipman Beatty.
Roll 22 (June 1 ‑ December 31, 1811)
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Jun 1811:
Joined the ship on "Monday
evening."
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Jun 1811:
Ship ready for sea on short notice.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Jun 1811 [1st ltr of that date]:
Will discharge Benjamin Bowie as soon as
the Purser joins the ship.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Jun 1811 [2nd ltr of that date]:
"... The two Englishmen and several of
the Frenchmen, being seamen and the remainder good ordinary seamen will make a
great difference in the strength of the crew.
When they are discharged or turned over from this ship ‑‑
may I therefore be permitted to request that you will be pleased to order that
same number of men may be ordered to the ship to fill their places..."
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Jun 1811 [3rd ltr of that date]:
Recommends hospitalization for Nicholas
Hall ("a state of extreme debility"), Thomas Blenock ("a white
swelling of the knee"), John Thomson from the REVENGE (a fistula requiring
surgery), and Ed Lund and Antonio Mitchell (old men with urinary tract
problems).
Appended
list:
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Jun 1811:
Requests court martial for Quartermaster
Thomas McCumber on charges of "mutinous conduct and disrespect" and
"mutinous and seditious language."
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS COMSTITUTION, 27 Jun 1811:
Acknowledges receipt of SecNav's response
to his [3rd] letter of 21 Jun.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Jun 1811:
Requests permission to carry flour and make
bread as he needs it. Says one barrel of
flour will make three of bread.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Jul 1811:
Requests an expert opinion on the legality
of the shipping articles signed by Quartermaster Thomas McCumber, currently on
trial.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Jul 1811:
Reports that he has received Midshipman Baury on board, a young man who speaks French and has knowledge of European
ports; also Midshipmen Pierpoint, Barlow, and Haslett. Midshipman Phelps expected "to
day." Midshipman Duncan has left
the ship, having resigned.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Jul 1811:
Reports he has directed the local Navy
Agent to advance Midshipman Joseph L. Biggs $30 so he can comply with orders to
report to Philadelphia.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Jul 1811:
Acknowledges orders to discharge Frederick
Lubstein.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Jul 1811:
"I have the honor to inform you that I
have this day, made known to that part of the crew of the Constitution under my
command (whose term of service expires on the 12th of Sept. next) that they
have a choice, either to remain by the ship until she returns from Europe, or
to be turned over to other vessels to serve the remainder of their time.
"In doing so I made use of every
argument calculated to induce them to remain but to no effect, as they chose
every man but one to be turned over..."
Requests that ships to which these men are sent be ordered to send him
similarly skilled men in return.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Jul 1811:
Reports men exchanged with HORNET and
WASP. He is ready for sea except for
"Mr. Barlow."
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Jul 1811:
Reports finding smallpox in a Marine
recently received from the Washington barracks.
Has found there are 39 people aboard who have never had it and is taking
steps to isolate them. Vaccinations are
being done.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 31 Jul 1811:
Has given Gunner Currie [Correia], "a
foreigner," leave of absence as he has "made himself very unpopular
with the officers and crew generally."
Recommends his discharge; neither Hull nor Commodore Rodgers think him
fit. Gunner's Mate Robert Anderson, who
has been in the ship two years, has been appointed Acting Gunner.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 2 Aug 1811:
Reports Mr. Barlow's arrival "late on
Wednesday evening."
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Aug 1811:
Arrived in Hampton Roads on 2 Aug. Encloses supplementary muster list for men
exchanged with ESSEX and NAUTILUS.
"he crew is now very healthy, and the men vaccinated for kine pox,
are doing well..."
"List
of Men received on board the United States Frigate Constitution from the U. S.
Frigate Essex ‑‑
"Received
from the U. S. Brig Nautilus
"List
of Men Sent from the U. S. Frigate Constitution to the United States Frigate
Essex & Brig Nautilus ‑‑
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Sep 1811:
Reports his arrival at Cherbourg after a 30
day passage. Mr. Barlow landed
immediately. Headed for Den Helder 4
days later, but has been troubled by adverse winds.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Oct 1811:
Reports arrival off Deal the previous
evening after a difficult time at Texel, navigationally and
diplomatically. Additonally, a gale
forced him offshore for five days. A
second bad blow decided him to make for Deal.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Oct 1811:
Getting underway from Deal for Cherbourg,
but weather again making things difficult.
Sir James Jay and "Judge Thompson" on board with dispatches
for Mr. Barlow.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 19 Nov 1811:
Left the Downs (Deal) on 9 Oct and arrived
at Cherbourg on the 14th. Arrived at
Portsmouth, England on 11 Nov. Has taken
aboard 18 American seamen "in distress" for return to the US; expects
there will be more. Expects it will be
late December before he can leave France with the Minister's dispatches.
Roll 23 (January 1 ‑ May 31, 1812)
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Feb 1812:
Reports giving Midshipman [Frederick S.]
Gibbon leave of absence to go to Richmond because his mother has died. Mr. [Octavius A.] Page's mother also has
died, and Mr. [William D.] Salter has lost both parents. Please advise on leaves for them.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Feb 1812:
I have given Midshipman [Lewis S.] Germaine
permission to visit his father at Washington, taking with him a trunk of papers
for the State Department and a packet of papers for the French Minister.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Feb 1812:
"In giving you an account of the state
and condition of the Ship I fear much at a loss what to say of her. The upper works has evident marks of decay
yet if the copper was good on her bottom I should have no fear in runing [sic]
her Two years longer on summer service, but that is not the case the [sic]
copper is fast coming off so that She Sails dull and will not be fit to cruise
until she is hove out and whilst that is doing it would be a pitty [sic] that
her upper works should be left in a state that they would cause her to be laid
up again in a year or Two to repair them.
And on the other hand it would be a pity to take her to Pieces and loose
[sic] the year or Two of Service that the upper works would bore [sic] ‑‑ All her sails except Three Topsails and one
Foresail are b[?] indeed so much so that they are only fit for old canvas ‑‑
nearly all the [?] rigging is bad and must be replaced with new. Many of her Spars are bad and those that are
not are much too heavy ‑ her Cables will answer for the next [?] but not
longer ‑ her Powder must be Taken out and proved. grates that [?] prepared [?] where she will
best [?]. These repairs I Submit to you
considering I am told that There is no Vessel now at Newyork [sic] under
repairs if so would not that be the best place for doing it and for mooring (?)
her after it is done or as she is here have She might be soon got up to
Washington by leaving her lower deck guns here and other heavy stores and let
Her be repaired where she will I should recommend having all her Sails made at
the yard at Washington ‑ in taking her there the small crew that She will
have would answer but it would not be safe to Venture to Newyork [sic] with
them and it will take some time to recruit the number that She will be short of
Complement ‑ when you shall have determined what to do with her I shall
be pleased to be [?] with your wishes as soon as Possable [sic] that none of
the Season may be lost in geting [sic] her to Whatever place you may fix on.
"We are much in want of Money to Pay
the Men whose time are out they have been some months over their Time some of
them which makes them uneasy to get ashore ‑‑ i am now making them as comfortable as
possable [sic] is fast recovering both onboard and at the sick quarters."
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Mar 1812 [1st ltr of this date]:
Reports having given 10 day leaves of
absence to Midshipmen [Octavius A.] Page and [William L.] Gordon, both to visit
Richmond. Intends to begin caulking the
ship.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Mar 1812 [2nd ltr of this date]:
Requests permission to come to Washington
to visit his uncle, Governor William Hull, whom he hasn't seen in years and who
will be in town.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Mar 1812:
Reports the crew continues sickly. Lost one man "yesterday" and
another "this morning."
Midshipman [William] Laughton is "very ill" and cannot be
moved; Midshipman [A. H. M.] Conklin also ill.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Mar 1812:
Reports having moved as many sick crewmen
to the sick quarters as can be accommodated; hopes to get the rest into the
town hospital. Discharged 40‑70
men "yesterday." With the loss
of additional men, whose time is about up, the ship will be too shorthanded to
go to sea. Suggests it would quickest to
overhaul the ship at Norfolk.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Mar 1812:
Reports that the men he lately discharged
"have principally gone to Newyork [sic] and Boston."
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Mar 1812:
Crew is mending well.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUION, 28 Mar 1812:
Anchored off Blanton's "this
morning" as the ship draws too much to cross the shoal. Awaits the lighters from Washington.
From
Captain Thomas Tingey, Washington Navy Yard, 20 Apr 1812:
Expects to have little heavy copper
sheathing in stock after completing CONSTITUTION. Currently has 14,352 lbs of 28, 30, and 32
ounce copper sheets on hand.
From
Captain William Bainbridge, Charlestown Navy Yard, 21 Apr 1812:
Requests that CARP Rodgers of CONSTITUTION
be ordered to duty at his Yard. [Rodgers
not assigned to CONSTITUTION.]
From
Captain Thomas Tingey, Washington Navy Yard, 25 Apr 1812:
Requires 120 bolts of #5 British canvas, 50
bolts of #6, and 50 bolts of Raven's duck for CONSTITUTION's sails.
From
Captain William Bainbridge, Charlestown Navy Yard, 21 May 1812:
"A
List of Articles taken from the Navy Store, belonging to the Chesapeake, for
the use of the U. S. Frigate Constitution, ‑‑ July 11th & 28
Septr 1810. ‑‑ April 16th & May 10th, 1811.
Roll 24 (June 1 ‑ August 31, 1812)
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Jun 1812:
"...this moment anchored
in...Annapolis... ...the upper deck guns
on board only two days... ...upwards of
forty sick on board."
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Jul 1812:
Written off Nantucket, reporting chase and
intention to call at Boston for orders, then "cruising in the Bay"
until they are received. Letter sent
ashore by pilot boat.
Roll 25 (September 1 ‑ December 31, 1812)
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Sep 1812:
Reports the death of brother and requests
relief from command as speedily as possible.
Prisoners have been offloaded.
From
Captain William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 2 Sep 1812:
Asks for command of CONSTITUTION.
From
Captain William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 13 Sep 1812:
Survey report on CONSTITUTION: fore and
main masts shot through and ought properly to be replaced; rigging and sails
much cut up, but repairable; stern of ship "considerable shott," but
repairable.
Roll 26 (January 3 ‑ February 28, 1813)
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Feb 1813:
Anchored off Boston Navy Yard, being
stripped. New coppering needed, and deck
beams, decking, waterways, and some knees.
Roll 27 (March 1 ‑ April 15, 1813)
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Mar 1813:
Surgeon Amos Evans transferred to Boston
Navy Yard and Acting Surgeon Benjamin Kissem sent on board the ship
temporarily.
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Mar 1813:
The gun deck has been ripped out; 2/3 of
beams require replacement. Difficult to
get southern pine for decking.
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Mar 1813:
Notes that Lieutenant John Contie [sic],
USMC, was aboard for both actions to date.
Roll 28 (April 16 ‑ May 31, 1813)
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Apr 1813:
Reports sending 100 of the crew to serve on
the Lakes, as local recruitment for that service has failed completely. Most of the remaining crew have been
discharged as their enlistments have ended.
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Apr 1813:
This date transferred 50 more from
CONSTITUTION to Sackett's Harbor.
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 May 1813:
Beams for the gun deck still are wanted.
From
Commodore Isaac Chauncey, Sackett's Harbor, NY, 16 May 1813:
147 very fine seamen arrived from Commodore
Bainbridge prior to 11 May; 50 of these will be sent on to Perry on Lake Erie.
Roll 29 (June 1 ‑ July 15, 1813)
From
Commodore Isaac Chauncey, Sackett's Harbor, NY, 4 Jun 1813:
Bainbridge sent 150 of CONSTITUTION's crew
"otherwise could not have man'd our present fleet."
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Jun 1813:
Captain Charles Stewart arrived this
date. The ship is ready to heave out for
recoppering.
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 27 Jun 1813:
Purser [Robert] Pottinger transferred from
SIREN to CONSTITUTION.
From
Commodore Isaac Chauncey, Sackett's Harbor, NY, 1 Jul 1813:
Received this date another 94 men from
Boston.
Roll 30 (July 16 ‑ August 31, 1813)
From
Captain Thomas Tingey, Washington Navy Yard, 28 Aug 1813:
"I...enclose here with a statement of
the number of rounds of shot of the different qualities taken on board...of the
public ships which have been fitted out here.
The number of shot has been chiefly at the will of the captains... But in submitting my opinion, I beg to
recommend that for every long gun mounted on board our ships of war, the
complement of shot should be 100 to 120 rounds of round shot, 50 to 60 round [sic]
of grape shot and 20 to 25 rounds of cannister.
For every carronade, 80 to 90 rounds of round shot, 30 to 40 round [sic]
of grape, and 10 to 15 rounds of cannister...
"Each stand of grape has heretofore
generally, one iron stool and twelve round shot and this practice should be
continued for proper proportioned long gun the stool and shot constructed as to
weigh fully the denomination of the piece intended for. But for carronades I would recommend only eight
balls and the stools to be made of wood...
My reason is that in consequence of the light charge of powder...to a
carronade they heavy iron stool will be very much...the velocity of the shot
and...cause these to fall short of the distance intended and of there [sic]
effective force... The Constitution
fired from her carronades two round shot each discharge during the entire
battle with the Guerriere."
Roll 31 (September 1 ‑ October 15, 1813)
From
Captain Thomas Tingey, Washington Navy Yard, to an unknown addressee, date
obscured:
"The
following is established by the department.
1rst Sept. 1813. "For long guns 100 rounds of round shot
40 do.
grape do.
# 5
do. double head
No cannister
"For carronades 60
do. round shot
40 do.
grape do.
20 do.
cannister
"All
grape to be made with iron stools, containing twelve shot the whole to weigh
the weight of the round shot as near as may be.
"#
This did great execution against the Guerriere, the enemy complain much of
their effect. One doublehead shot cut
her foremast about one third off."
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 15 Sep 1813:
The ship has been ready for sea "for
some time," but is 60 hands short.
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 24 Sep 1813:
Acknowledges receipt of the ship's sailing
orders dated 18 Sep.
From Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy
Yard, 25 Sep 1813:
The ship needs about 50 seamen; recruiting
very slow.
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 7 Oct 1813:
Reports Sailing Master Hixon and Acting
Midshipman Stearns in the ship.
Roll 32 (October 16 ‑ November 30, 1813)
NOTHING
Roll 33 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1813)
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Dec 1813:
"I have constructed a portable sheet
iron furnace for heating red hot shot of the following
dimentions [sic] which would answer as well for land service as sea service‑‑ Lenth [sic] 3 feet depth 3 feet width 18
inches, it heated 21 shot 24 lbs. in 22 minutes with a pine wood fire. The construction of the pipe is such as gives
it a great draught. from its dimentions
[sic] you can readily conceive it occupies little room, and is calculated to
set to the back part of our Galley where it interferes with nothing‑‑ My purpose is only to use it against the
enemys [sic] ships of such force as would render our safety precarious, (if we
cannot otherwise escape,) by bringing them under out stern battery and firing a
few red hot ball in their hull. They are
not very expensive and all our frigates haveing [sic] them, the use of which
might facilitate their escape from a superior force by the confusion they would
be thrown into, if not the destruction of an enemy that is not disposed to
contend with us on fair and equal terms."
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Dec 1813:
"Herewith you will receive a model of
the furnace for heating red hot shots.
The fronts [sic] of tin are to be made of thick sheat [sic]‑iron
riveted together as the dots represent, the grates of strong bar‑iron
which is represented by wood, the pan of tin goes under to received the ashes
and coals that fall. The construction of
the drauft [sic] pipe is the most important.
"This model is made on a scale of one
and a half inches to the foot and represents exactly the one made for the
Ship. The shot is placed on the upper
grate and the fire wood on the lower.
They are verry [sic] portable and would answer for Gunboats. The season has been so uncommonly mild that I
have not yet been able to make my escape from the force that is watching us,
but I hope a few day [sic] will bring a more easterly wind and enable us to do
so without much risque of meeting them.
On Sunday last the Raze [sic: razee] and Junon frigate was off Cape Ann,
and under Cape Cod a 74‑gun ship and two Frigates were at anchor, with
two or three Brigs of war cruizing betwene [sic] the capes."
Roll 34 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1814)
NOTHING
Roll 35 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1814)
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Apr 1814:
"We closely pressed his Majesty's brig
of war Musquito [sic] off Surinam, where she escaped by running in the
mud... ...scorbutic symptoms began to
make their appearance..." He chose
to return to the US to repair/replace the mast so that, if blockaded, the crew
would be available for other service.
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Apr 1814:
Notes that Midshipmen [John] Tayloe and
[Richard] Winter were on the previous cruise.
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Apr 1814:
Reports the shift of the Ship from Salem to
Boston the previous day.
Roll 36 (May 2 ‑ 31, 1814)
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 2 May 1814:
Reports the arrival of Oliver Hazard Perry
to chair Court of Inquiry ordered on Stewart by SecNav on 21 Apr. Will "convene tomorrow."
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 9 May 1814:
Reports end of Court of Inquiry. Notes that CONSTITUTION almost was fired upon
by Marblehead fort while making her escape from the British frigates: only the
chance presence of a visitor who recognized her saved the day. Signals between sea and land forces are
strongly recommended.
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 May 1814:
Reports 30 men short, including a Gunner;
25 more are due for discharge in June.
Roll 37 (June 1 ‑ July 15, 1814)
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 1 Jul 1814:
The ship needs 60‑70 men. Blockade is tight. Recruiting is nil due to the bounty being
offered for Lakes service and the lure of privateers.
Roll 38 (July 16 ‑ August 30, 1814)
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Aug 1814:
Forwards the flag captured in HMS PICTOU.
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Aug 1814:
"Will you do me the favour to order to
this ship three or four of those octagon swivel guns with the necessary
aparatus [sic]; the decided advantage they possess make me desirous to have
them on board."
Roll 39 (September 1 ‑ October 1, 1814)
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 25 Sep 1814:
Recruiting is improving. The ship may be ready in 2‑3 weeks.
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 26 Sep 1814:
Forwards following letter from Mr.
William Flagg, Salem, MA, 25 Sep 1814:
"The proprietors of the Private
armed schooner Fox, have an ordnance ship in this Port with sixty six 24 pound
Cannon on the Congreve principles, Thirty of which have ship carriages with
apparatus complete. Should the
Government want these for immediate service, I have no doubt but the
Proprietors would consent to an appraisement.
There is [sic] 3000 Round - & a quantity of Grape and Canister Shot
- quantity not yet known.."
From
Captain Isaac Hull, Portsmouth (NH) Navy Yard, 27 Sep. 1814:
Forwards a list of the ordanance
captured by the Portsmouth privateer Fox in Stranger. It is the entire armament for 2 frigates then
building at Kingston, Jamaica. As the
only heavy guns now in the area are those due to be returned to Congress,
requests authority to purchase them.
Roll 40 (October 1 ‑ November 16, 1814)
From
Captain Isaac Hull, Portsmouth (NH) Navy Yard, 1 Oct 1814:
Reports that the owners of privateer Fox
have offered ths guns captured by her to the Government. So confident is he that they will be
purchased, he has ordered "a complete set for the upper deck" of Washington. The guns will be considered
"borrowed" until the Secretary confirms purchase. Washington will be launched at noon
this date.
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 3 Oct 1814:
Reports his inspection of the cargo of
the prize Stranger. Recommends
purchase of the 24 pdr Congreve cannon, shot, and associated implements, but
not the carriages "which are not worth purchasing." The canon are 7'5" long, with
"large breeches and trunnions located farther aft than is customary,"
and weighing an average 40 cwt 3 qtrs.
They were cast at Carron. Also
recommends purchase of the swords, gunlocks, rope rammer/sponges, and blankets
found in the prize.
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 11 Oct 1814:
"By letter this day received from Mr.
Chambers of Philadelphia, he informed me that there are at that place, about 20
repeating swivels unappropriated‑‑
Pray, sir, will you be pleased to order ten of them to this place for
the Independence and Constitution."
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 20 Oct 1814:
CONSTITUTION has a greater shortage of
ordinary seamen than she has excess of able bodied seamen. Her crew as of 16 Oct:
Total: 440
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Oct 1814:
References made to Midshipman [Z. W.]
Nixon, [Lott L.] Payne [dismissed for misconduct], [William] Steele, Curtis,
and [Charles P.] Derby; as well as Lieutenants John Tayloe and Richard M. Hunter,
and Surgeon John A. Kearney.
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 25 Oct 1814:
The ship's batteries are 22 32‑pounder
carronades; 30 24‑pounder long guns.
"...house is built over spar deck..
...most of her...spars unfit for service..."
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 4 Nov 1814:
Reports 20 men have deserted in recent days
from the Yard and INDEPENDENCE.
Midshipman [Henry] Ward, one of the officers sent looking for them,
found John Baptiste on the privateer LEO of Boston. The Captain of LEO, John H. Hewes, knew the
man was a deserter but refused to give him up.
Captain Stewart ordered to send armed boats to LEO and take the man by
force, if necessary. When one boat went
alongside LEO and identified itself, the privateer's Second Lieutenant, John D.
Carnes, refused to allow any boarding.
CONSTITUTION's men tried, but were repulsed with several "severely
wounded." After a parley,
Lieutenant Henry E. Ballard was allowed on board, where he was abused verbally
by Hewes and his First Lieutenant, George D. Mack, before they finally
delivered up Baptiste. [Bainbridge
sought a court martial on the privateer officers, but it turned out that they
did not receive the ship's letter of marque until the day after the
incident, and so were not liable to the Articles of War. Baptiste was court martialled.]
Roll 41 (November 16 ‑ December 31, 1814)
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 11 Dec 1814:
Reports that the ship's orders, dated 30
Nov, arrived on 8 Dec. A shortage of
funds is delaying the purchase of supplies.
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 17 Dec 1814:
The ship sailed this date.
Roll 42 (January 1 ‑ February 27, 1815)
NOTHING
Roll 43 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1815)
NOTHING
Roll 44 (April 1 ‑ May 31, 1815)
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 May 1815:
Reports arrival in New York this date.
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, [?] May 1815:
Reporting events, notes that Madeira bore
WSW 60 leagues when he engaged CYANE and LEVANT, and that the Porto Praya chase
occurred on a Sunday.
[Enclosure]
"Commences with light breezes from the Ed and cloudy weather‑ At 1 discovered a sail two points on the larboard bow‑ hauled up and made sail in chace [sic]‑ at 1/4 past 1 made the sail to be a ship‑ at 3/4 past 1 discovered another sail ahead‑ made them out a [sic] 2 to be both ships, standing close hauled, with their starboard tacks aboard. At 4 p.m. the weathermost ship made signals and bore up for her consort, then about ten miles to leeward‑ [we] bore up after her, and set, lower, topmast, topgallant, and royal studding sails in chace‑ at 1/2 past 4 carried away our main royal mast‑ took in the sails and got another prepared. At 5 p.m. commenced firing on the chace from our two larboard bow guns‑ our shot falling short, ceased firing‑ At 1/2 past 5, finding it impossible to prevent their junction, cleared ship for action, then about 4 miles from the 2 ships‑ at 10 minutes after 5, they passed within hail of each other, and hauled by the wind on the starboard tack, hauled up their courses and prepared to receive us‑ at 45 past 5, they made all sail close hauled by the wind, in hopes of getting to windward of us‑ at 55 minutes past 5, finding themselves disappointed in their object, and we were closing with them fast, they shortened sail and formed on a line of wind about half a cables length from each other. At 6 pm having them under command of our battery, hoisted our colours [sic], which were answered [by] both ships hoisting English Ensigns. At 5 minutes past 6 ranged up on the starboard side of the sternmost ship, about 300 yards distant and commenced the action by broadsides, both ships returning our fire with great spirit for about 15 minutes,‑ then the fire of the enemy beginning to slacken and the great column of smoake [sic] collected under our lee induced us to cease fire to ascertain their positions and conditions.‑ in about 3 minutes, the smoke cleared away, we found our selves abreast of the headmost ship, the sternmost ship luffing up for our larboard quarter‑ we poured a brodside [sic] into the headmost ship, and then braced aback our Main and Mizen Topsails, and backed astern under cover of the smoake, abreast the sternmost ship, when the action was continued with great [crossed out in the original] spirit and considerable effect, until 35 minutes past 6 when the enemy's fire again slackened and we discovered the headmost ship bearing up.‑ furlled our topsails ‑ shot ahead, and gave her two stern rakes we then discovered the sternmost ship wearing also wore ship immediately after her, and gave her a stern rake, she luffing too [sic] on our starboard bows, and giving us her larboard broadside we ranged up on her larboard quarter within hail, and was about to give her our starboard broadside when she struck her colours, fired a lee gun, and yielded./[sic] At 50 minutes past 6, took possession of H.M. Ship Cyane, captain Gordon Falcon, mounting 34 guns./ At 8 pm filled away after her consort which was still in sight to leeward at 1/2 past 8 found her standing towards us, with her starboard tacks close hauled, with top gallant sail set, and colours flying at 50 minutes past 8 ranged close along to windward of her, on opposite tacks, and exchanged broadsides wore immediately under stern and raked her with a broadside, she then crowded all sail, and endeavoured escape by running hauled on board our tacks, set spanker [and] flying jib in chace at 1/2 past 9 commenced firing on her from our starboard bow chaser gave her several shot, which cut spars and rigging considerably‑ at 10 pm finding they could not escape, fired a gun, struck her colours, and yielded We immediately took possession of H.M. Ship Levant, Honorable captain George Douglas, mounting 21 guns 1 am the damages of our rigging was repaired, sails shifted and the ship in fighting condition.
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 May 1815:
Will sail for Boston on first fair wind.
From
Captain Samuel Evans, New York Navy Yard, 24 May 1815:
CONSTITUTION sailed this morning.
Roll 45 (June 1 ‑ August 31, 1815)
From
Lieutenant William B. Shubrick to Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 1
Jun 1815:
Indicates the ship has been in Boston at
least since preceding day.
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 2 Jun 1815:
In Boston.
Mentions Midshipman Alexander W. Lufborough.
From
Captain Charles Stewart, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Jun 1815:
Requests to be relieved of command to
attend to family matters.
Roll 46 (September 1 ‑ October 30, 1815)
From
Surgeon John A. Kearney to Lieutenant William B. Shubrick, both USS
CONSTITUTION, 2 Sep 1815:
Mentions Midshipman Arthur Latimer. Shubrick is termed "commanding
officer."
From
Captain Isaac Hull, Boston Navy Yard, 8 Sep 1815:
Mentions Midshipman Delaney in ship.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, Boston Navy Yard, 19 Sep 1815:
Reports that Lieutenant Shubrick of the
ship wishes 3 months leave.
Roll 47 (November 2 ‑ December 29, 1815)
From Captain Isaac Hull, Boston Navy Yard, 13
Dec 1815:
Mentions Midshipman Alexander Eskridge in
ship.
Roll 48 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1816)
From
Captain Isaac Hull, Charlestown Navy Yard, 3 Jan 1816:
Forwards a list of officers and men
still assigned to CONSTITUTION (not included) and reports he has sent the
officers' names to Commodore Bainbridge to employ them as he will.
Roll 49 (March 1 ‑ July 1, 1816)
From
Captain Charles Stewart, Philadelphia, PA, to the Secretary of the Treasury, 13
May 1816:
Understanding that the Congress has
voted money to CONSTITUTION's crew for the capture of HMS LEVANT, inquires as
to whether or not he should apply for the money to the Treasury Secretary, and
if so, requests the money be paid in Treasury notes at Philadelphia so that he
can set distribution to the crew in motion.
Roll 50 (July 1 ‑ September 29, 1816)
NOTHING
Roll 51 (October 1 ‑ December 31, 1816)
From
Captain William Bainbridge, Boston, MA, 16 Oct 1816:
"...In the action with the Java,
two of the Carronades on board the Constitution were in the early part of the
action struck with violence by the enemy's round shot, so much so as to make
considerable indentation in the guns, yet these carronades continued the
remainder of the action in a active & servicable [sic] fire, and are to
this day safe pieces of ordnance...
"P.S. ...On board the Frigate
Constitution under the command of the gallant Preble a heavy 24‑pounder
was struck by a 32 pound shot from the Battery at Tripoli, so forcibly as to
make a considerable indentation yet the piece remained Servicable throughout
that noble attack, and was repeatedly tried in the various attacks of that
valuable Officer against the Batteries of Tripoli."
Roll 52 (January 1 ‑ March 29, 1817)
NOTHING
Roll 53 (April 4 ‑ May 31, 1817)
NOTHING
Roll 54
(June 2 ‑ August 31, 1817)
NOTHING
Roll 55
(September 2 ‑ October 30, 1817)
NOTHING
Roll 56
(November 1 ‑ December 30, 1817)
From
Captain William Bainbridge, Boston, MA, 4 Nov 1817:
Forwards correspondence with Navy
Agent George Harrison concerning his medal and requests that a new die of the
reverse side be made.
[Enclosures]
From
Bainbridge, 28 Oct 1817:
"...my medal...appears to be well
executed, but has one very material fault, and which I trust you will think is
absolutely necessary to be altered. I
remember Java's Flag to be Struck. The Flag at present on the die shows that the
ship has not surrendered. I know that
you took too much interest in the capture of the Java to alter the flag to be
kept flying, after so many hard knocks which old Ironsides
gave her."
From
Harrison, 31 Oct 1817:
Reports that the die cannot be altered
but will have to be remade and requests an order to do so.
[End
of Enclosures]
From
Captain William Bainbridge, Boston, MA, 15 Dec 1817:
Forwards a new sketch of the JAVA
action and again requests a new reverse die.
Roll 57 (January 1 ‑ March 31, 1818)
NOTHING
Roll 58 (April 1 ‑ June 30, 1818)
NOTHING
Roll
59 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1818)
NOTHING
Roll 60 (September 2 ‑ December 31, 1818)
From
Captain William Bainbridge, Boston, MA, 12 Oct 1818:
Notes that Lieutenant William [V.]
Taylor is attached to CONSTITUTION in ordinary and requests his transfer to
INDEPENDENCE.
From
Commodore William Bainbridge, Boston, MA, 15 Dec 1818:
Lieutenant William Taylor now attached
to INDEPENDENCE.
Roll 61 (January 1 ‑ March 31, 1819)
From
Captain Isaac Hull, Boston Navy Yard, 25 Feb 1819:
Submits a report on the condition of
ships in ordinary at his yard as of 1 Nov 1818.
"Constitution‑‑44,
‑‑Hull‑‑Will require a thorough repair before she can
be sent to sea.
Rigging‑‑All
required to be new, a part having been
taken for
heaving down the
Macedonian & found bad – The
remainder Do. Standing and
Running having remained
a long time in store could not be trusted
Masts‑‑
Masts apparently good except the foremast which can
& be repaired. As her masts & bowsprit
however have been
Spars a long time in her & exposed to the
weather, it is believed
some of them would be found unfit for Service. Yards &
other spars mostly unfit for service ‑ some sprung &
others very old
& rotten.‑‑
Cables All required to be new.
Water Casks‑
A full set required.
Stores ‑
Nearly all required, having landed but few, a part of
which have been taken for other ships, and part on hand
in bad condition."
Roll 62 (April 2 ‑ May 30, 1819)
NOTHING
Roll 63 (June 1 ‑ July 29, 1819)
NOTHING
Roll 64 (August 7 ‑ October 31, 1819)
NOTHING
Roll 65 (November 3 ‑ December 31, 1819)
NOTHING
Roll 66 (January 1 ‑ March 31, 1820)
NOTHING
Roll 67 (April 2 ‑ June 30, 1820)
NOTHING
Roll 68 (July 1 ‑ September 30, 1820)
NOTHING
Roll 69 (October 2 ‑ December 28, 1820)
From
Captain Isaac Hull, Boston Navy Yard, 9 Oct 1820:
CONSTITUTION is "undergoing
repair."
From
Captain Isaac Hull, Boston Navy Yard, 7 Nov 1820:
Reports having received orders to fit
CONSTITUTION for sea. Notes that
Lieutenants Storer, Geisinger, and Jarvis have been ordered to her.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, Boston Navy Yard, 10 Nov 1820:
Reports he has ordered Lieutenant
William Berry aboard CONSTITUTION.
From
Captain Isaac Hull, Boston Navy Yard, 13 Nov 1820:
Reports he has ordered Purser Thomas
Breese aboard CONSTITUTION.
From
Captain John Shaw, USS INDEPENDENCE, 24 Nov 1820:
Has been absent and asks about the
order to move 30 of his main deck guns to CONSTITUTION.
Roll 70
(January 1 –
March 31, 1820)
From
Captain Jacob Jones, Head of Sassafras, MD, 30 Jan 1821:
Accepts orders to command CONSTITUTION
in the Mediterranean. Requests
permission to remain on his farm until the crew begins arriving.
From
Captain John Shaw, USS INDEPENDENCE, 31 Jan 1821:
A rendezvous for CONSTITUTION will be
opened immediately.
From
Captain John Shaw, USS INDEPENDENCE, 7 Feb 1821:
A rendezvous for CONSTITUTION has been
opened. Is the enlistment to be for two
or three years? Will a three‑ year
enlistee receive higher pay?
From
Captain Jacob Jones, Head of Sassafras, MD, 9 Feb 1821:
Acknowledges receipt of permission to
remain on farm. As that "Lieutenant
Gallagher" be ordered to the ship if possible as he would like to have
aboard "a seaman of experience & activity." [Not done.]
From
Captain John Shaw, USS INDEPENDENCE, 15 Feb 1821:
Eighty‑eight seamen, ordinary
seamen, and boys have enlisted for CONSTITUTION to date.
From
Captain Jacob Jones, Georgetown Crossroads, MD, 27 Feb 1821:
Request his son, Midshipman Richard A.
Jones, be ordered to CONSTITUTION.
[Done.]
From
Captain Jacob Jones, Georgetown Crossroads, MD, 9 Mar 1821:
Has no objection to "Mr.
Parker" as First Lieutenant in CONSTITUTION.
From
Captain Jacob Jones, Georgetown Crossroads, MD, 19 Mar 1821:
Has no objection to having Master
Commandant [Benjamin W.] Booth in CONSTITUTION, and requests Midshipman Samuel
F. Dupont because of his "perfect knowledge of the french [sic]
language." [Done.]
From
Captain Isaac Hull, Boston Navy Yard, 20 Mar 1821:
CONSTITUTION is in such a state of
forwardness as to require her officers present to take charge.
From
Captain Jacob Jones, Georgetown Crossroads, MD, 24 Mar 1821:
Has received his orders dated 19 Mar,
and will leave for Boston on the 27th.
Roll 71 (April 3 ‑ June 15, 1821)
From
Captain Jacob Jones, Boston, MA, 6 Apr 1821:
Reports arrived in Boston on 4
Apr. The ship will be ready to sail in
two weeks if all goes well.
From
Captain Samuel Angus, New York, NY, 7 Apr 1821:
Reports having shipped 28 seamen and
ordinary seamen for CONSTITUTION.
From
Captain Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Apr 1821:
CONSTITUTION now anchored in the
stream. When the New York draft arrives,
should have a crew of 415‑420.
Forty‑seven now on sick list and still no Surgeon.
From
Captain Samuel Evans, New York, NY, 23 Apr 1821:
Boatswain [Thomas] Smith of WASHINGTON
has been sent to CONSTITUTION.
From
Captain Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Apr 1821:
Supplies and personnel have not
arrived as hoped; should be ready to sail in another 10 days. Joseph Hill and John Lyncoln [sic], who
enlisted for this ship, are said to be deserters from LYNX. As they have been pardoned, will take them
with me if they wish to go. [They
didn't.] Tested the paddling machine
yesterday, but didn't do so fully as it broke.
From
Captain Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Apr 1821:
Gunner William Johnson died last
night.
From
Captain Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 May 1821:
Departed Boston this morning.
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Jun 1821:
Arrived Gibraltar on 3 June. Expects to make port calls around the western
Mediterranean basin (and Tripoli) in the next 10‑12 weeks.
Roll 72 (June 18 ‑ July 31, 1821)
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Jul 1821:
Writing from Leghorn, reports all is
peaceful in the region. There is news
that the Greek revolutionaries have had some success. Intends to sail for Port Mahon on the 29th
for supplies from the US.
Roll 73 (August 1 ‑ September 30, 1821)
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Aug 1821:
Writing from Gibraltar. Arrived on 16th. Four Midshipmen are being returned to the US:
[Thomas H.] Saul and [John] Buchanan, who intend to resign, and [Lucius C.]
Heylin and [James] Bradford for health reasons.
Roll 74 (October 1 ‑ December 28, 1821)
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Oct 1821:
Writing from Port Mahon. All is quiet.
Intends to sail "tomorrow" to touch ports in France, Italy, and
the Barbary shore before returning to Gibraltar in Dec. Captain [Master Commandant Benjamin W.] Booth
has been permitted to return to the US due to health reasons. First Lieutenant [Foxall A.] Parker has been
designated as "lieutenant commandant."
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Nov 1821:
At Gibraltar. All is quiet.
Intends to go to Port Mahon in about a week.
Roll 75 (January 2 ‑ May 30, 1822)
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Feb 1822:
At Port Mahon.
All
is quiet politically. Reports Midshipman
[Thomas B.] Worthington was killed by Midshipman [Samuel] Galiard [sic:
Gaillard] on 4 Feb. The cause was some
sort of horse play in steerage, and also involved Midshipmen [John D.] Bird,
[James] Bradford, [John S.] Paine, and [Wilson C.] Purviance. Jones admits being aware of squabbling among
his midshipmen, but had not realized how far things had deteriorated. Intends sailing for Gibraltar about 15 Mar.
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Mar 1822:
Arrived
at Gibraltar on the 17th after a 6‑day passage. All is quiet.
Neither the Turks nor the Greeks are reported to be impeding neutral
shipping. Intends leaving later in the
month for Leghorn and then Tunis, and then will make a run to Smyrna to see the
area for himself.
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 11 Apr 1822:
At Gibraltar. No news.
Plans remain unchanged.
Roll 76 (June 3 ‑ September 28, 1822)
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Jun 1822:
Arrived at Messina, Sicily, 2 days
since. No news. Intends to sail on the 10th for Smyrna. Has given permission to Midshipmen [Samuel
F.] Dupont and [Archibald R.] Bogardus to return to the US for their
lieutenant's exam. Believes that Dupont
"will be one of our most distinguished officers."
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Jun 1822:
All is tranquil at Smyrna.
"There was a final massacre of
the Greeks of Scio on thursday [sic] last, about 4, or 5 thousand, in
consequence of the Greek fleet having sent a fire ship among that of the Turks,
& succeeded in blowing up one of their new 74s with the Captain Pasha &
1500 men."
Intends to sail among the islands
beginning "tomorrow" to gather intelligence.
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Aug 1822:
From Gibraltar, having arrived that
morning. Had left Smyrna on 25 Jun and
called at Ipsara and Idira Islands. The
Greeks currently are everywhere victorious, and have taken Athens.
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Aug 1822:
Concerned with an alleged debt of
$5000 from previous command which, he states, was the Purser's and, he thought,
settled.
Roll 77 (October 3 ‑ December 3, 1822)
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Oct 1822:
Arrived at Leghorn on the 9th. No news.
Expects to leave about the 18th and take Consul Stith back to his post
at Tunis following surgery to remove an eye.
From Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION,
23 Nov 1822:
Sailed from Leghorn on 25 Oct, and
sent ONTARIO to Tunis. Left Port Mahon
on 12 Nov with NONSUCH and on the 13th sent her to Algiers to land Consul
Shaler and return to Mahon. No news.
Roll 78 (January 7 ‑ June 30, 1822)
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, Middletown, CT, 22 Jan 1822:
Reports his health is "much
better" and requests orders to CONSTITUTION upon her expected return from
the Mediterranean. Considers himself
"too young" to remain long inactive ashore. [Done in 1824.]
Roll 79 (July 1 ‑ December 30, 1822)
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Dec 1822:
Arrived at Port Mahon on 20 Dec. All is quiet.
Roll 80 (January 1 ‑ March 31, 1823)
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 Feb 1823:
At Port Mahon.
Roll 81 (April 1 ‑ May 26, 1823)
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Apr 1823:
Arrived at Gibraltar on 20 Apr.
Roll 82 (May 26 ‑ July 10, 1823)
NOTHING
Roll 83 (July 10 ‑September 2, 1823)
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 11 Jul 1823:
Arrived at Leghorn on 4 July, having
called at Algiers, Tunis, Malta, and Syracuse since leaving Gibraltar. All's well.
Intends going next to Port Mahon and then back to Gibraltar.
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Aug 1823:
Sailed from Port Mahon on 5 Aug and
arrived at Gibraltar on the 10th with ONTARIO.
Relations peaceful. The Franco‑Spanish
War seems stalemated, with the Spanish keeping a firm hold on all fortified
cities and the French roaming the open country.
Roll 84 (September 2 ‑ November 8, 1823)
NOTHING
Roll 85 (November 8 ‑ December 31, 1823)
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Nov 1823:
Arrived at Gibraltar on 16 Nov, having
landed Minister Nelson at Cadiz. He
reports that Surgeon Heap will act in the place of Mr. Stith, who died on 2
Nov, as US Consul at Tunis. Intends remaining
at Gibraltar until relieved.
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Dec 1823:
At Gibraltar. All's quiet.
Concerned about riding out winter gales at Gibraltar with anchor cables
that are not bad enough to survey, but clearly nearing the end of their
usefulness.
Roll 86 (January 2 ‑ April 14, 1824)
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 19 Jan 1824:
Awaiting his relief in CYANE. Peaceful relations continue with all nations.
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Feb 1824:
Awaiting CYANE. The British Consul has been ordered out of
Algiers by his government; there may be war between Britain and Algiers.
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Mar 1824:
Awaiting CYANE; concerned because crew
is beginning to "express dissatisfaction" over the prospect of
remaining in service beyond their enlistments.
With enlistments now for three years, he fears that delays will result
in his returning home with "the greater number of them in
Irons." Britain is rumored to have
declared war on Algiers.
From
Captain Melancthon T. Woolsey, Sackett's Harbor, NY, [?] Mar 1824:
In a statement of service, notes that
he served as Second Lieutenant in CONSTITUTION from his transfer from ESSEX in
May 1806 until CONSTITUTION returned to the US in 1807.
Roll 87 (April 14 ‑ June 9, 1824)
From Captain John O. Creighton, USS CYANE, 22
Apr 1824:
"The departure of the
Constitution after my arrival was so immediate, that it was out of my power to
write to you, and I therefore requested Commodore Jones to make my
excuse..." Britain has blockaded
Algiers.
From
Captain Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 May 1824:
From off Sandy Hook, reports a passage
of 39 days from Gibraltar. CYANE had
arrived on 9 apr and he sailed on 10 Apr.
Since most of the crew's time has expired, expects orders to discharge
them. Requests permission to visit his
family soonest.
From
Captain Samuel Evans, New York Navy Yard, 21 May 1824:
CONSTITUTION arrived last
evening. "In attempting to bring
her too off the Yard she parted both her bower cables and drifted upon a shole
[sic] near the Ship Yard on Manhattan Island where she lay until about eleven
oclock last night when she was got off without any apparent injury‑‑ She got on the Shoal on the top or nearly at
the top of high water, and as the tide ebbed rapidly she could not be got off
until about half flood, but as she did not I believe use more than a foot, was
from the Stern post and remained nearly upon an even keel, I do not believe she
received injury."
From
Captain Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 May 1824:
Arrived "yesterday, but upon
anchoring opposite the yard,...we parted two cables and drifted on a gravel
bank where we lay one ebb, the ship upright and waterborne, touching touching
only about fifteen feet a stern [sic], where she shewed [sic] but one
foot. We laid out two anchors and hove
taught [sic] the cables, and commenced lightening her, with the intention of
heaving off at high water, but at half flood, we having got out but a part of
the shot and one gun, she floated off, without heaving, and I am confident
without injury to her, as nothing of her touched ground but about fifteen feet
of her keel; I have requested Capt. Evans to prepare a place for our hauling in
to the Yard, which he about to do..."
From
Captain Samuel Evans, New York Navy Yard, 22 May 1824:
"...Constitution has hauled into
the Yard..."
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, Middletown, CT, 22 May 1824:
Repeats
his interest in gaining command of CONSTITUTION.
From
Captain Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 May 1824:
Ship is in Yard. Believes he can leave her in the care of
Lieutenants [Foxhall A.] Parker, [Samuel L.] Breeze, and [Joseph R.] Jarvis
while he visits his family. Has already
sent on shore leave Lieutenants [George W.] Storer, [David] Geisinger, [John
H.] Aulick, and [William] Boerum. Purser
[Thomas] Breese is involved in paying off crew.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, Middletown, CT, 28 May 1824:
Acknowledges receipt of order to be
ready for active service.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, Middletown, CT, 1 Jun 1824:
Asks that Purser W. Halsey be assigned
to his ship.
From
Master Commandant George W. Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, to Captain Charles G.
Ridgely, New York Navy Yard, 2 Jun 1824:
Notifies him that Captain Samuel
Evans, Commandant, New York Navy Yard, died of a burst blood vessel experienced
while boarding CONSTITUTION at about noon this date.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, Middletown, CT, 4 Jun 1824:
Acknowledges orders to CONSTITUTION. Request that Lieutenant Elie A. F. Vallette
and Sailing Master Philip S. Meyer be assigned to the ship.
From
Captain Charles G. Ridgely, New York Navy Yard, 5 Jun 1824:
Reports that Midshipman Edward S.
Lewis would like orders to CONSTITUTION.
[So ordered.]
Roll 88 (June 9 ‑ October 12, 1824)
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 11 Jun 1824:
Requests [Gunner] John Fair be
assigned CONSTITUTION.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 11 Jun 1824 [2nd ltr]:
Repeats request for Gunner Fair and
adds Passed Midshipman Benjamin Tallmadge, Jr., to be Acting Master.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 12 Jun 1824:
Says he has received many requests for
assignment to CONSTITUTION. Since he
knows of no officers ordered to the ship he submits a list of those he would
prefer:
Elie A. Vallette - Lieutenant William Laughton - Lieutnant Benjamin Page, Jnr.- Lieutenant Thomas W. Wyman- Lieutenant Josiah Tattnall - Lieutenant Charles T. Platt - Lieutenant
Leonard Osborne ‑ Surgeon
James M. Halsey - Purser
Benjamin Tallmadge - Acting Master
James H. Ward - Midshipman Richard H. Morris - Midshipman
John Fair ‑ Gunner
[Vallette,
Page, Wyman, Tattnall, Tallmadge, Ward, and Morris received orders to the
ship.]
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 16 Jun 1824:
Forwards requests for orders to
CONSTITUTION from Midshipmen Miller and Lewis.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 17 Jun 1824:
Requests, since Dr. Osborne has been
ordered to ONTARIO, that Dr. Andrew B. Cook be ordered to CONSTITUTION. Says he has little confidence in the
abilities of Dr. Thorn.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 22 Jun 1824:
Acknowledges receipt of a letter
concerning Chaplain Cook.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 23 Jun 1824:
Forwards a request from Midshipman
Ellison in CONSTITUTION to be transferred to the New York Station in order to
recover his health and attend school in WASHINGTON. He agrees.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, 26 Jun 1824:
Reports that Lieutenant Page has
received an injury which has led him to request to remain ashore. He agrees and asks for Lieutenant Joseph
Cross in his place. [So ordered.]
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 28 Jun 1824:
Says that if Midshipman Tallmadge is
unavailable, he would be happy with Sailing Master Doxey "or any other
capable, steady man." Reminds the
Department that he still has no doctor assigned and that Dr. Cook is his
candidate.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, [?] Jun 1824:
Forwards request from Midshipman
Magruder to join CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 2 Jul 1824:
Forwards request from Midshipman
Morris to join CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 9 Jul 1824:
Forwards requests from Midshipmen
[John W.] Mooers and McMullin to join CONSTITUTION. [Mooers yes.]
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, Middletown, CT, 15 Jul 1824:
Reports he left CONSTITUTION a week
ago to visit his family and, perhaps, improve his health. Unless otherwise directed, intends to remain
at home for another "five or six" days.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 2 Aug 1824:
Requests cancellation of his request
for Lieutenant Joseph Cross because he understands that since the days they
sailed together he has become "very intemperate."
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 14 Aug 1824:
Requests that Midshipman Van Dyke be
ordered to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 31 Aug 1824:
Reports that CONSTITUTION still lacks
a Surgeon and a Gunner.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 21 Sep 1824:
Requests permission to take his 4‑5
year‑old son on voyage as a passenger.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 22 Sep 1824:
Reports that Midshipman Charles E.
Hawkins very much wants to go in CONSTITUTION, and has gotten Midshipman
Barnhouse to agree to be replaced.
Barnhouse, however, is under suspension.
Referred for decision. [No.]
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, New York, NY, 28 Sep 1824:
Dr. Samuel G. Howe has requested
passage to Greece in CONSTITUTION.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Sep 1824:
As requested, forwards a list of the
ship's officers, noting that Surgeon Turk has not yet reported and that no
Gunner, Boatswain, or Sailmaker has yet been assigned. Recommends John Ball as Boatswain and says
there is a good sailmaker's mate in the ship who might be warranted.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 2 Oct 1824:
Having learned the Secretary is at
Trenton, repeats his submission of officers aboard, noting this time that a
Chaplain and a Surgeon's Mate also are wanted.
He suggests a "Mr. Wells of Hartford" as Chaplain, John Lord
as Gunner, John Ball as Acting Boatswain.
Expects to take powder aboard "Monday next."
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 2 Oct 1824 [2nd ltr]:
Readdresses and forwards a letter from
the ship's midshipmen requesting an advance of four months' pay with which to
prepare for the forthcoming deployment.
[annotated: forbidden by law.]
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Oct 1824:
Neither Surgeon Turk nor Surgeon's
Mate Williamson has yet reported; only Surgeon's Mate Waters Smith is present.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Oct 1824:
Surgeon Turk reported this date.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 11 Oct 1824:
Mr. Coxe, our Consul in Tunis, came
aboard today with his family and effects, ready to sail. The powder first tested failed proof; now
expects to load satisfactory powder beginning "tomorrow." Slop clothing is expected to be ready for
loading in "two or three days."
That done, will only be short Chaplain, Gunner, and Surgeon's Mate to be
ready for sea. Doctor Turk's health is
delicate. Dr. Williamson is not wanted
as he is understood to be intemperate.
Roll 89 (October 12 ‑ December 31, 1824)
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Oct 1824:
Has completed loading powder except
for a few barrels being made into cylinders which will be loaded "the day
after tomorrow (Monday)." Still
needs a Chaplain, Gunner, and Surgeon's Mate.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Oct 1824:
Has received orders for Gunner John
Lord and has appointed John Ball Acting Boatswain.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Oct 1824:
Mentions [Purser] Timberlake and
[Midshipman] Barnhouse.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Oct 1824:
Requests disposition of deserter
Marine Private James Scott, who has been returned by authorities in
Philadelphia, where he had turned himself in.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Oct 1824 [2nd ltr]:
Reports he has had a further
conversation with Purser Timberlake and Midshipman Barnhouse regarding their
differences and believes things have been resolved. Barnhouse recognizes he acted improperly and,
hopefully, has learned a lesson. Is he
to be returned to duty?
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Oct 1824:
Discusses his decision to deny Master
at Arms James Sterett's request to have his wife accompany them to the
Mediterranean, something already denied to a number of others. "Women are frequently serviceable with
the sick, but I have seldom known them to be on board, without producing
difficulty among the men, and being otherwise troublesome."
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Oct 1824 [2nd ltr]:
Chaplain McCarty joined this date.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Oct 1824:
Acknowledges receipt of sailing orders
dated 16 Oct. Will sail as soon as
"Dr. Burch" and "Lieut Armstrong" join. Sailmaker Burchstead has reported himself by
mail from Boston. Will not delay
ship for him.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Oct 1824 [2nd ltr]:
Forwards a petition from the ship's
Marine Guard seeking his restoration to duty with all pledging themselves to
his future good conduct. Signed by: J.
W. Swords, George Hackett, Nicks Hurley, Petre [sic] Pope, Benjamin Norcross,
Benjamin Johnson, Brooks Beard, James F. Curran, Jno M. Keenan, Andrew
Scarling, William Sawer [sic], P. Quinn, John Miller, Nicholes [sic] Lee,
William Scott, William Shirkey, William Speed, William Dever, William Dudley
Walsh, James Foster, John Nash, Jonas Abbott, Charles McCracken, Jas Wall,
David Lochart [sic], Hugh Clifford, Isaac V. Shoemaker, William Fleming, [?]
Laws, Wm Browne, Primrose McPherson, John Scofield, Roderick McLane, and James
P. Walsh.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Oct 1824:
All officers have now reported except
the Sailmaker and Midshipman Charles E. Hawkins, who is known to be in New
York. Lieutenant Newcomb has come aboard
as a passenger, enroute to take command of NONSUCH.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Oct 1824 [2nd ltr]:
Lieutenant William M. Armstrong and
Surgeon's Mate DeWitt Birch reported today.
Will sail soonest.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Nov 1824:
Arrived at Gibraltar on 24 Nov. Once filled with water, will sail for
Algiers, Tunis, and Tripoli. Our
relations are everywhere peaceful.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Nov 1824:
Reports no deaths, desertions, or
discharges this month.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Nov 1824:
Has given Acting Midshipman Skipwith
permission to return to the US to resign.
Roll 90 (January 1 ‑ February 18, 1825)
From
Commodore Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Jan 1825:
Came into Syracuse on 22 Dec because
of a defective mainmast. Had arrived at
Tunis on 24 Dec [sic] to offload Consul Coxe and family after trying
unsuccessfully for three days (due to weather) to send a boat in to Algiers. Coxe well received. Subsequently discovered a portion of the
larboard fish near the head was rotten, allowing the bib and trestletrees to
settle. (The fish was made up of two
pieces.) Trestletrees, too, were found
to be defective. Now repairing. Also, at Tunis broke a new anchor. Examination showed a flaw in the iron
involving about one‑third the shank's diameter. Have given Lieutenant Cross and Midshipmen
Colhoun and Skipwith permission to return to the US, the latter with the
intention of resigning.
From
Commodore Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Jan 1825:
Midshipmen James B. Glentworth, John
W. Mooers, Samuel Swartwout, and Henry W. Morris were involved in a duel
yesterday, the first two as principals.
As a mark of disapproval, have ordered all back to the US.
From
Commodore Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Feb 1825:
Left Gibraltar on 30 Nov. Now at Messina. No discharges or desertions during December;
no deaths or desertions during January.
From
Commodore Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Feb 1825:
Still at Messina. Has given Lieutenant Gibbon permission to
return to the US for his health.
Roll 91 (February 18 ‑ April 11, 1825)
From
Commodore Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Feb 1825:
Still at Messina. No deaths or desertions this month.
From
Commodore Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Mar 1825:
Still at Messina. Forwards proceedings of court martial of
Midshipman Edward M. Vail.
From
Commodore Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Mar 1825:
At Messina. Forwards the warrant of Midshipman Augustus
Barnhouse, who has resigned to avoid court martial. Cheated at cards.
From
Commodore Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 31 Mar 1825:
At Messina. Forwards monthly returns of the squadron.
Roll 92 (April 11 ‑ June 3, 1825)
From
Commodore Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Apr 1825:
At Messina. Forwards monthly returns. Reports the death of Lieutenant Gardner,
officer in charge of his Marine Guard, after a short illness: an amiable and
excellent officer.
From
Captain John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 30 Apr 1825:
Reports being surprised and mortified
not to find even a single vessel of the squadron awaiting him when he arrived
at Gibraltar yesterday; furthermore, no‑one knew where they were or what
they were doing. They may be at
Messina. If Captain Macdonough was
apprised that I was coming, will remove him from command for neither meeting me
nor leaving word of where he was.
Roll 93 (June 5 ‑ July 7, 1825)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 17 Jun 1824:
At Gibraltar.
"Capt
Mcdonough [sic] I am sorry to find still continues in delicate health; and from
the explanations he has given on relation to his not joining me, or putting it
in my power to know where orders were certain to reach him, I shall not be I am
glad to say, under the necessity of using measures towards him, which would
have been disagreeable not only to him but to me also..."
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Jun 1825:
Requests a Boatswain's warrant for John
Ball.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 26 Jun 1825:
Has given Chaplain J. McCarty of
CONSTITUTION permission to return to the US.
McCarty has promised to resign if the Secretary disapproves of his
return.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Jun 1825:
No desertions or discharges during the
previous month.
Roll 94 (July 7 ‑ August 15, 1825)
NOTHING
Roll 95 (August 15 ‑ September 22, 1825)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 30 Aug 1825:
Arrived at Smyrna on 20 Aug with
CONSTITUTION, ERIE, and ONTARIO.
From
Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Sep 1825:
At Vourla. No deaths, desertions, or discharges during
the past month.
Roll 96
(September 22 ‑ October 25, 1825)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 18 Oct 1825:
"I am sorry to inform you that
the extreme ill health of Capt. Mcdonough [sic], and the distress of mind
occasioned by the recent death of his wife has induced him to require to be
superceded [sic] in the command of the Constitution, with permission to return
to the U. States. I have accordingly
ordered Capt. Patterson to supercede him
in the command of that ship, and Capt. Mcdonough's passage is already engaged
on board the Brig Edwin bound to New York for the cabin of which vessel and the
putting on board of her twenty invalids necessarily discharged from the
squadron I was under the necessity of engaging to pay the extravagent [sic]
demand of $1300.
"I hope that my having permitted
Doctor Turk the Surgeon of the Constitution to return with him will be approved
by the Department...
"Doctor Jackson who has been sick
on shore for the last five months has at length recovered ‑ and I shall
order him to take the place of Doctor Turk on board the Constitution..."
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 18 Oct 1825 [2nd ltr]:
Has given permission for Midshipman
Joseph Arnold of CONSTITUTION to return to the US for reasons of health [a
"catarrhal complaint" and a "tendency to pulmonary
disease"].
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 19 Oct 1825:
Has given permission to Midshipman
Joseph A. Hemphill of CONSTITUTION to return to the US in order to resign.
From
SecNav to Captain Thomas Macdonough, USS CONSTITUTION, 11 Jul 1825 [received
and returned by Captain Rodgers after Macdonough's departure]:
Approves of the action taken against
Midshipmen Swartwout and Mooers.
Roll 97 (October 26 ‑ November 28, 1825)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 1 Nov 1825:
[Enclosures]
"Monthly Pay of the Commsd. & Warrant Officers of the United States Ship Constitution.
--|Pay|Rats/Day|Whole Amt.
"Provisions
required by the U. States Ship Constitution, Danl T. Patterson, Esqr.,
Commander ‑ for Six Months ‑ calculating for Four Hundred &
fifty Men, with the addition of five percent ‑‑
Raisins
as a substitute for Suet.
Oil
for Candles.
John B.
Timberlake
Purser"
"The
quantity of Slop clothing for a first years supply having been received, the
following articles will be required for the year 1826
534
ea. Duck Frocks, Duck Trowsers, Black Silk
Handkerchiefs -- required
to be 140 Pea Jackets, 400 Blue Cloth Jakcets, 800 Blue Cloth Trowsers, 800 Pair Stockings, 600 White Flannel Shirts, 600 White Flannel Drawers, 600 Pair of Shoes, and 100 Red Vests -- required to be delivered Oct 1st 1826
Of
the other articles of clothing allowed by the regulations, none are wanted,
except hats which can be purchased of a better quality and on better terms
here.
John B. Timberlake
Purser"
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 4 Nov 1825:
"...Captain Patterson since the
return of Captain McDonough [sic] to the U. States has been in command of the
Constitution, but will be put in command of the Brandywine as you directed ‑‑
"...I received a letter from Capt
Read (dated at Havre on his leaving [Brandywine]) requesting service and I have
written him to join me at Mahon as early as possible ‑ when he arrives I
shall appoint him to the command of the Constitution..."
Roll 98 (November 28 ‑ December 31, 1825)
From
Captain Isaac Chauncey, New York Navy Yard, 28 Nov 1825:
Reports to the death of Captain Thomas
Macdonough aboard the brig EDWIN on 10 Nov off the Delaware capes. The body was delivered to the New York Navy
Yard for further disposition.
From
Captain Isaac Chauncey, New York Navy Yard, 2 Dec 1825:
Macdonough's funeral took place
yesterday in New York, then the body was placed on the steam boat COMMERCE for
return to Middletown, CT, and interment.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 20 Dec 1825:
Arrived at Port Mahon on 28 Nov in
company with CONSTITUTION, BRANDYWINE, and ERIE.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 26 Dec 1825:
Reports having held a board of
promotion examination, assisted by Captains Patterson and Deacon, for
Midshipmen Samuel F. Dupont, John Pope, Levin M. Powell, and John A. Carr. All are felt qualified for promotion.
Roll 99 (January 1 ‑ April 1, 1826)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 22 Jan 1826:
"Captain [George C.] Read arrived
here [Port Mahon] yesterday...and is now in command of the CONSTITUTION."
Read brought with him word of Thomas
Macdonough's death. Squadron flags were
flown at half mast and minute guns fired at noon.
Roll 101 [sic] (February 10 ‑ March 20, 1826)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, to Captain David Deacon, USS ERIE,
18 Feb 1826:
[Enclosure]
Midshipman
Henry W. Morris transferred from CONSTITUTION to BRANDYWINE, 17 Feb 1826.
Midshipman
L. B. Newell transferred from CONSTITUTION to BRANDYWINE, 18 Feb 1826.
Lieutenant
J. Tattnall of CONSTITUTION and Lieutenant R. Voorhees of BRANDYWINE
exchanged, 20 Feb 1826.
Midshipmen
G. M. Bache, Henry Hoff, & Page, Mr. Jones Schoolmaster & Mr.
Fairlie Captains Clerk
transferred from BRANDYWINE to CONSTITUTION, 20 Feb 826.
Midshipman
P. H. Hayne transferred from BRANDYWINE to CONSTITUTION, 21 Feb 1826.
Midshipman
W. D. Porter transferred from BRANDYWINE to CONSTITUTION, 23 Feb 1826.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 10 Oct 1825 [duplicate]:
Just arrived at Gibraltar,
CONSTITUTION in company. Captain
Macdonough's health is such that he has requested permission to return to the
US, "but which poor fellow, I fear he will not reach alive."
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 25 Feb 1826:
"On acquainting Captains
Patterson & Read of the changes it had been deemed necessary to make, they
were much distressed; but as they are both men of sense they have borne the
disappointment without complaint, notwithstanding Read had his heart set on
visiting the Archipelago in command of a superior Frigate and Patterson of
exhibiting there, the finest one in the world."
Roll
102 (March 20 ‑ April 9, 1826)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 10 Apr 1826:
Arrived at Gibraltar "this
morning" in company with CONSTITUTION and PORPOISE. ONTARIO expected shortly from Algiers.
Roll 103 (May 1 ‑ 28, 1826)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 7 May 1826:
Surgeon Samuel Jackson of
CONSTITUTION, due to an "extreme debility & no prospect of his
recovery," has been given permission to return to the US.
Surgeons currently are distributed as
follows in the squadron: CONSTITUTION has Surgeon L. Osborne (whose health is
poor) and Surgeon's Mate J. Brooke.
Doctor DeWitt Birch died on 1 May of
typhus.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 13 May 1826:
Captain Patterson believes the crew of
CONSTITUTION, many of whose enlistments expire next summer will ship for an
additional year, especially if he can advance them one or two months pay and
give them a run ashore at a port like Port Mahon.
Roll 104 (May 29 ‑ June 26, 1826)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 25 Jun 1826:
Arrived at Vourla in company with
CONSTITUTION, ONTARIO, and PORPOISE on the 20th. ERIE has since joined, bringing whole
squadron together. Intends to have
CONSTITUTION replace ERIE in the Aegean when that ship leaves in August.
Roll 105 (June 25 ‑ July 27, 1826)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 18 Jul 1826:
Left Vourla with CONSTITUTION,
ONTARIO, and PORPOISE on 30 Jun. Arrived
at Tenedos on 2 Jul.
"On the 4th Inst. a Division of
the Turkish fleet consisting of two ships of the Line, four Frigates and
seventeen Corvettes and Brigs [under the Capudan Bey]...made its appearance
coming out of the Dardanelles."
Departed Tenedos on the 9th. Anchored off Myteline on the 11th. On the 14th, the Capudan Pasha's fleet
appeared: 2 ships of the line, 7 frigates, 7 corvettes, and 11 brigs and
schooners.
Roll 106 (July 27 ‑ August 31, 1826)
NOTHING
Roll 107 (September 1 ‑ October 14, 1826)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 11 Sep 1826:
Arrived at Vourla on 19 Jul from the
Dardanelles in company with CONSTITUTION and PORPOISE. Sailed on 11 Aug with CONSTITUTION, ONTARIO,
and PORPOISE for Milos by way of Mytilene, Scio, Negropont, and Cape Colonna,
arriving on the 15th. Sailed on 21 Aug,
detaching ONTARIO, and arrived off Malta on the 29th, where PORPOISE was
detached to await the monthly mail packet.
NORTH CAROLINA and CONSTITUTION proceeded to Port Mahon, which was
reached on 10 Sep. Thusfar, no American
merchant has been victimized by pirates in the Aegean Sea. Intends to go to Gibraltar once PORPOISE
arrives with dispatches.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 17 Sep 1826:
Has transferred an ailing Surgeon L.
Osborne from CONSTITUTION to ERIE for return to the US, as well as Midshipman
Richard H. Morris who suffers from a chronic prostate problem.
Roll 108 (October 14 ‑ November 27, 1826)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 5 Nov 1826:
Arrived at Gibraltar this date,
CONSTITUTION and PORPOISE being left at Port Mahon for the purpose of
overhauling rigging, etc., and reentering their crews to extend their terms of
service until May 1828.
From
Commodor John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 11 Nov 1826:
Has permitted the exchange of
Lieutenant Voorhees of CONSTITUTION with Lieutenant McCulloch of ERIE so the
ailing former officer may return to the US.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 11 Nov 1826 [2nd ltr]:
CONSTITUTION's crew "have already reship'ed" until May 1828.
"Captain Patterson is a sensible
and discreet Officer...entire Confidence may be placed [in him]..."
Roll 109
(November 3 ‑ December 31, 1826)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 21 Dec 1826:
Intends to send CONSTITUTION "into the Levant" in Mar to replace
ONTARIO.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 27 Dec 1826:
Has approved the following Bill of
Exchange for CONSTITUTION:
Pay & Subsistence 2000 ‑
Repairs 2000 ‑
Provisions 2000 ‑ 6000 ‑
Roll 110 (January 2 ‑ March 17, 1827)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 21 Jan 1827:
Reiterates intention of sending
CONSTITUTION eastward at resumption of sailing season. Reports first two instances of piratical acts
against American merchants [Boston brigs FALCON and SUSAN] in that area.
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 3 Mar 1827:
Reports arriving at Port Mahon and
being surprised and disappointed at not being able to order CONSTITUTION east
immediately because her mainmast is so defective that it must be "taken
out & repaired," which will require an estimated 8‑10 days.
Roll 111 (March 19 ‑ May 14, 1827)
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 23 Apr 1827:
"...The defects in the
Constitution's Main Mast...were found so extensive after taking it out, as to
require more labour to repair it effectually than was at first anticipated, and
consequently prevented her departure until the 30th ulto..."
[Enclosure:
Commodore Rodgers' orders to Captain Daniel T. Patterson]
"As
soon as the Constitution under your command is ready for sea, you will proceed
with her to the Archipelago for the purpose of affording protection to our
commerce in that sea against the rapacity of the numerous pirates with which it
at present, and has been for considerable time past infested. In the performance of this duty you will have
occasion not only for the constant practice of vigilance in affording to our
Merchant vessels the desired protection; but for the exercise of your soundest
judgment and discretion in avoiding yourself, and preventing in others under
your command the commission of any act which might conpromit [sic] in any
degree the neutral character which it is the desire of our Government to
sustain in respect to the contest in which the parties at War are engaged. By the last accounts piracies have increased,‑
some of the vessels of the Greek Navy have been engaged in piratical
expeditions, and it is feared more will follow their example. In this State of things, it will be difficult
to distinguish which are pirates and which are not, and on this account
advisable for you to Communicate with all Greek vessels you may fall in with,
not sailing in fleet or squadron, for the purpose of ascertaining their real
character & the nature of the pursuits they have been engaged in.
"As the whole force that will be
left on the Station after the departure of this Ship for the United States,
will not be greater than will be generally required for the effectual
protection of our commerce in the Levant, so long as the present state of
things continues, I shall as soon as the Porpoise can be got ready, despatch
her for Smyrna, directing her commander to report to you for orders; and before
my final departure from the Station, I shall order Captain Nicholson to do the
same, as soon as his crew shall have reentered and the Ship is in other
respects ready for service.
"I have written to Mr. McCall our
Agent at Gibraltar suggesting to him the necessity of establishing a credit at
Smyrna, and at this place [Port Mahon], such as will enable the Pursers on
their requisitions, approved by the Commanding Officer, to obtain the requisite
funds ion the manner pointed out in the 24th Article of the Regulations of the
Navy under the Head of Commanders of Fleets or Squadrons.
"It is expected however that no
money will be drawn by any Purser except on requisitions stating specifically
the object or objects for which it is required‑ In addition to this, to enable the Agent to
advise the Department from time to time of the monies he has disbursed in
payment of Bills, it will be necessary that the letter of advice sent by the
Purser with each set of Bills, should state the Specifick [sic] Heads of
Appropriation under which each amount so drawn is to be charged.
"In relation to the manner in
which funds are to be obtained, I herewith send for your government, Copies of
two letters of the 30th October, and 8th of November from the Honnble Secretary
of the Navy.
"On entering the Archipelago it
is desirable that you proceed direct to Smyrna, it beng the most likely place
for falling in with the Ontario and delivering to Capt Nicolson the enclosed
order requiring his return to this port without delay.‑
"Should either of the Store
vessels now expected be bound from this to Smyrna, I will cause a quantity of
Beef, Pork, Bread, Flour, Beans, whiskey and Molasses equal to four months
rations to be shipped to that place, subject to your orders. You had better therefore advise Mr. Offley of
this and make arrangements with him for its reception and Storage in the event
of its being sent and arriving there in your absence.
"Altho it has been thought
advisable to keep our interests as distinct as possible from those of other
nations trading in the Levant, yet from the nature of the war, and the
impossibility of the Greek Government to control or impose any restraint
whatever on the most abandoned of its subjects, or to prevent in its present
imbecile and disregarded state, even its vessels of war from committing acts of
piracy, I would advise you to afford, if required, the benefit of convoy to the
Merchant vessels of nations whose men of war have afforded protection to ours. I would not advise your giving them however,
instructions other than verbal; but before even doing this, it would be
necessary to ascertain that no part of their Cargoes belonged to either of the
Belligerents, or was Contraband of war.
"I would suggest your declining
to reciprocate in this way with the Austrians, whose Conduct towards the Greeks
has been such as to merit the reproach of the Civilized world.
"Wishing you an agreeable and
prosperous cruise..."
Roll 112 (May 14 ‑ July 31, 1827) [sic]
NOTHING
Roll 113 (July 30 ‑ October 6, 1827) [sic]
From
Commodore Daniel T. Patterson, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Aug 1827:
Reports receipt of Commodore John
Rodgers' letter of 30 May apprising him of the commodore's departure from the
Mediterranean and his accession to squadron command until superseded. Now down to four weeks provisions; will have
to head for Port Mahon about the 20th.
Roll 114 (October 6 ‑ December 31, 1827)
From Commodore Daniel T. Patterson, USS
CONSTITUTION, 12 Nov 1827:
Reports learning of the Battle of
Navarino on 27 Oct and total defeat of Turkish fleet.
Roll 115 (January 1 ‑ 29, 1827)
NOTHING
Roll 116 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1827)
NOTHING
Roll 117 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1827)
NOTHING
Roll 118 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1827)
From
Commodore Daniel T. Patterson, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Jul 1827:
Has given permission for Midshipman
Allen Harwood to return to the US to permit him to keep "in step"
with others of his seniority. His place
as Acting Sailing Master of CONSTITUTION has been taken by Midshipman John H.
Marshall, "an officer of much experience & exemplary deportment."
Roll 119 (August 1 ‑ September 30, 1827)
From
Commodore William M. Crane, USS JAVA, 7 Sep 1827:
Found CONSTITUTION at Vourla on 25
Aug. She will remain in the Aegean until
near the end of October, when she will return to Port Mahon.
From
Midshipman E. O. Blanchard, USS CONSTITUTION, to Commodore William M. Crane,
USS JAVA, 28 Aug 1827:
Requests permission to return to the
US for examination. [Granted.]
Letter,
Midshipman Paul Hayne, USS CONSTITUTION, to Commodore William M. Crane, USS
JAVA, 28 Aug 1827:
Also requests permission to return to
the US for examination. [Granted.]
Roll 120 (October 1 ‑ November 30, 1827)
NOTHING
Roll
121 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1827)
NOTHING
Roll 122 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1828)
From
Captain Daniel T. Patterson, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Jan 1828:
Reports rumors that promotions to
"commander" are anticipated during the present session of Congress
and so recommends Lieutenant E. A. F. Vallette, his "First."
From
Commodore William M. Crane, USS JAVA, 6 Jan 1828:
CONSTITUTION is caulking and
overhauling. Reports the death of
Lieutenant George B. McCulloch of CONSTITUTION on 31 Dec.
Roll 123 (February 1 ‑ 29, 1828)
NOTHING
Roll 124 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1828)
From
Commodore William M. Crane, USS JAVA, 19 Mar 1828:
"Upwards" of 50 men from
CONSTITUTION re‑entered for service in JAVA and PORPOISE in the place of
those whose terms are about to expire or who are invalids transferred to
CONSTITUTION.
Roll 125 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1828)
From
Commodore William M. Crane, USS JAVA, 2 Apr 1828:
Reports the death of Purser John
Timberlake of CONSTITUTION "this morning after a long and painful
illness."
From
Commodore William M. Crane, USS DELAWARE, 26 Apr 1828:
Reports from Port Mahon that
CONSTITUTION "will sail with the first wind for Boston."
From
Commodore William M. Crane, USS DELAWARE, 26 Apr 1828 [2nd ltr]:
Reports that Lieutenant Bladen Dulany,
former First Lieutenant of JAVA, will return to the US in CONSTITUTION due to
poor health.
Roll 126 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1828)
From
Captain J. D. Henley, Baltimore, MD, 21 May 1828:
Reports the death of Sailing Master
Briscoe Doxey (inventer of the "propello marino"] "last evening
after a long and painful illness."
Has left a widow and 8 children "in distressed circumstances."
Roll 127 (June 2 ‑ 30, 1828)
NOTHING
Roll 128 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1828)
From
Captain Daniel T. Patterson, USS CONSTITUTION, 2 Jul 1828:
Reports that, due to the death of
Purser J. B. Timberlake, Lieutenant R. B. Randolph was detailed to fill his
duties. Forwards requisition for monies
with which to pay off the crew.
From
Captain Daniel T. Patterson, USS CONSTITUTION, 2 Jul 1828 [2nd ltr]:
Reports ship's arrival off Boston
Light, having sailed from Port Mahon on 29 Apr and Gibraltar on 9 May. Was windbound near Gibraltar until 30 May.
From
Captain Charles Morris, Boston Navy Yard, 5 Jul 1828:
Reports CONSTITUTION anchored at the
yard "yesterday."
From
Captain Charles Morris, Boston Navy Yard, to Marine Lieutenant William Dulany,
USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Jul 1828:
Grants him 1 week's leave.
From
Captain Charles Morris, Boston Navy Yard, 10 Jul 1828:
Expects that when orders arrive to
discharge CONSTITUTION's crew, "a considerable number" will reenlist.
From
Captain Charles Morris, Boston Navy Yard, 11 Jul 1828:
Forwards request of Gunner John Lord
of CONSTITUTION for orders to the yard.
From
Captain Charles Morris, Boston Navy Yard, 12 Jul 1828:
Acknowledges
receipt of orders to discharge CONSTITUTION's crew and authorization of leaves
of absence for the officers.
From
Captain Charles Morris, Boston Navy Yard, 16 Jul 1828:
Reports that 33 invalids arrived in
CONSTITUTION and have been transferred to the receiving ship. CONSTITUTION's crew is now paying off.
From
Captain Daniel T. Patterson, Boston Navy Yard, 22 Jul 1828:
Reports having turned over
CONSTITUTION to the yard on 19 Jul.
Roll 129 (August 1 ‑ 30, 1828)]
From
Captain Daniel T. Patterson, New York, NY, 7 Aug 1828:
Reports that Midshipman Daniel L.
Randolph boarded CONSTITUTION the "day before I sailed from Mahon,"
but was not ordered aboard for duty.
Roll 130 (September 1 ‑ 29, 1828)
NOTHING
Roll 131 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1828)
NOTHING
Roll 132 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1828)
NOTHING
Roll 133 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1828)
NOTHING
Roll 134 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 135 (February 1 ‑ March 31, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 136 (April 1 ‑ 29, 1829)
From
Captain Charles Morris, Boston Navy Yard, 6 Apr 1829:
In
reporting yard naval personnel strength for the first quarter of 1829, ends
with note that "an invalid from the Constitution died."
Roll 137 (May 1 ‑ 30, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 138 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 139 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 140 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 141 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 142 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 143 (November 1 ‑ December 31, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 144 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 145 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 146 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 147 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 148 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 149 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 150 (July
1 ‑ 31, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 151 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1830)
From
Captain John Rodgers, Washington, DC, 2 Aug 1830:
Attests to the good service of Gunner
William S. Cowan while serving under him in CONSTITUTION and PRESIDENT [in 1809‑11].
Roll 152 (September 1 ‑ 27, 1830)
From
Captain Charles Morris, Boston Navy Yard, 27 Sep 1830:
Requests, because the BNC has directed
him to prepare to repair CONSTITUTION, that officer vacancies in the yard be
filled: 1 or 2 lieutenants, a Master, a Boatswain, a Carpenter, and
"some" midshipmen for the ordinary and a Boatswain for the yard
staff.
Roll 153 (October 1 ‑ 30, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 154 (November 1 ‑ December 31, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 155 (January 1 ‑ 25, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 156 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 157 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 158 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 159 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1831)
From
Captain Isaac Hull, Washington Navy Yard, 9 May 1831:
Recommends Gunner's Mate Jacob
Carpenter, a former crewman with him and Captain Bainbridge in CONSTITUTION,
for appointment as Gunner.
Roll 160 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 161 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 162 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 163 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 164 (October 1 ‑ November 31, 1831)
[sic]
NOTHING
Roll 165 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1831)
From
Lieutenant John Gwinn, Philadelphia Navy Yard, to Captain James Barron,
Philadelphia Navy Yard, 25 Nov 1831, enclosed in the latter's letter to SecNav,
6 Dec 1831:
States that Thomas Scipion "was
on board the Constitution Frigate during the whole of the late war and in all
three actions of that Ship..." and is an excellent seaman.
Roll 166 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 167 (February 1 ‑ 29, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 168 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 169 (April 1 ‑30, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 170 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1832)
From
Captain Charles Morris, Boston Navy Yard, 8 May 1832:
Acknowledges
receipt of directive to chair a court of inquiry into the conduct of Lieutenant
Robert B. Randolph while acting as Purser of CONSTITUTION.
From
Captain Charles Morris, Boston Navy Yard, 31 May 1832:
Acknowledges receipt of a certified
transcript from the Fourth Auditor stating that the accounts of Lieutenant
Robert B. Randolph, acting Purser of CONSTITUTION, had been "examined
adjusted, & closed..." [The
court finally was held in Jan 1833.]
Roll 171 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 172 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 173 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 174 (September 1 ‑ 28, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 175 (October 1 ‑30, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 176 (November 1 ‑ 28, 1832)
From
Captain William Bainbridge, Boston Navy Yard, 20 Nov 1832:
"...as the Commissioners have
decided not to bring her [CONSTITUTION] in Dock until next Spring..."
intends going on leave on 26 Nov.
Roll 177 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 178 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 179 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll
180 (March 1 ‑ 30, 1833)
From
Captain Wolcott Chauncey, Washington, DC, 25 Mar 1833:
Requests to be considered for command
of CONSTITUTION, which is said to be fitted out for duty. Has been unemployed for 10 years!
Roll 181 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 182 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 183 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1833)
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 24 Jun 1833:
Reports the drydocking of CONSTITUTION
at 0530 this date. The ship was safely
shored and secured by 1300.
Roll 184 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1833)
From
Captain James Barron, Philadelphia Navy Yard, 27 Jul 1833:
Reports the death of Commodore William
Bainbridge at 4 PM this date.
Roll 185 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1833)
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 12 Aug 1833:
Requests permission to carry old
Seaman Richard Gray on the yard's payroll at the pay of a Boy. He is a former crewman of CONSTITUTION,
having been in her for the GUERRIERE fight, and is worthy of
consideration. [Also was present at JAVA
fight.]
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 17 Aug 1833:
Notes the presence of Sailing Master
[Samuel C.] Hixon, former CONSTITUTION crewmember, in the yard.
Roll 186 (September 2 ‑ 30, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 187 (October 1 – 31, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 188 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1833)
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 15 Nov 1833:
Refers to a musician, "Ordinary
Seaman Raymond," whom he has employed "making small matters [sic] of
the Frigate Constitution for the friends of union and of the country, ...for
the gratification of men who have performed much for their country, and who
certainly deserved such a small compliment for their exalted stations &
services..."
Roll 189 (December 1 ‑ 30, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 190 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
From
Captain John Smith, Sailing Master Samuel C. Hixon, and Carpenter John
Southwick, Boston Navy Yard, to Captain Jesse D. Elliott, 11 Jan 1834
[enclosure to Elliott's ltr to SecNav, 11 Jan 1834]:
Reports that "we find the Breast
Hook under the Birth [sic] Deck of the Constitution, well fayed & fastened;
there are three clamps under the beams of the Birth Deck.‑‑ In faying the Breast Hook to its proper
place, it was found necessary to snipe off [sic], at the Apron, about one a
half [sic] of said clamps. this [sic] we
are informed, is sometimes done on the lower Decks of Ships or vessels of any
class. The bolts which fastened that
part of said clamps that were removed, were of course cut off, but this in our
opinion could produce no injury In [sic]
no part of the Birth Deck as complained of, can we perceive defect, no [sic]
can we discover any thing wrong about the Counter timbers."
From
Captain Wolcott Chauncey, Washington, DC, 15 Jan 1834:
Requests consideration as
CONSTITUTION's (or BRANDYWINE's) next captain.
Has been left inactive for the past five years despite his regular
requests for service.
Roll 191 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1834)
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 22 Feb 1834:
"I
herewith enclose an anonymous hand bill which seems to have been struck off and
distributed in Boston to produce an excitement among the lower classes of
society, upon a subject, which above all others I would have considered, above
the comments of intelligent partizans [sic].
"The cause of this hand bill is
as follows ‑ shortly after the President of the United States had left
Boston, I conversed with the Architect who was to superintend the repairs of
the Constitution, about the propriety of putting a Figure on her, for a head;
and concluded to do so, as she had been thus ornamented originally.
"The person who had been in the
habit of carving the ornaments for our Vessels of War was therefore sent for
and directed to make for a head a figure of the President of the United States,
dressed as represented in the Hermitage scene, holding in his hand a scroll
having for its motto, "the Constitution must be preserved," taken
from the remarks which you had occasion to make on her deck at the time she was
received into Dock, under the direction of the Officer who commanded her when
she took the Guerriere.
"I furthermore directed him to
carve the bust of Hull, Bainbridge, and Stewart, for her stern ornaments;‑
thus presenting our Chief Magistrate and the 3 successful commanders of that
favourite ship, in an attitude which I deemed highly honorable to the Navy, and
the Nation.
"Prompted by my own feelings of
respect which had been generated by 3 or 4 years service under the immediate
authority of the executive; a portion of which was spent in the discharge of a
delicate duty in our own Country, where I could perceive in his instructions to
me, the finest feelings of the human heart embodied: and being aware of the
high honors conferred upon him during his late tour by the State of
Massachusetts and her Literary institution, and more particularly by the
Inhabitants of Boston and the neighboring towns ‑ I considered that in
putting his figure upon the Stem of the Constitution I should be uniting with
them in this demonstration of respect, and doing an act which could not but be
acceptable to our whole corps.
"I therefore at that time ‑
which was at least 6 months ago ‑ gave the order to have it done, and
although I have spoken of the fact often to persons without regard to party, I
have never heard the fitness of the ornament questioned until this week, nor
have I conversed with the person on the subject who is to execute the work,
since I gave him the order until this day.‑
"This morning I have seen him, and
he informs me that he has been engaged for some time past in the execution of
this work.
"There is no question but what
the hand bill is got out for present political purposes, and that had the
figure been made and put on to the Frigate at the time of the Presidents [sic]
visit, many of the persons who now express such intemperate opinions, would
have been equally zealous in raising it with acclamations to its appropriate
place.
"I had no political motives
whatever in placing the figure there, as Politics are not suffered to be the
subject of communication or action within this yard.
"I did not bring the subject to
your notice before from feelings of delicacy, as I knew that custom would
furnish a precedent for my so doing ‑ as I had been informed and as
appears on reference to my own office my predecessors have heretofore
ornamented Ships with Figures, Eagles and Billet Heads, at their Option.
"I regret exceedingly that a
General Order of the Department should forbid my bringing this subject to the Pubic:
but through you, and must offer truth as my apology for so doing."
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 26 Feb 1834:
"Since my letter to the
Department of the 2nd inst in relation to the Ornaments of the Constitution I
have been further satisfied that the excitement got up at that time was only
for political purpose.
"The enclosed letter received by
me on the evening of the 24th inst will shew [sic] the Department the
disposition of the Raisers of the excitement and I imagine if the Figure Head
of the Constitution should be changed to please them, there is no telling what
they will ask next ‑ as they have now demanded the removal of the
Inscription from the Head of the Dry Dock.
"The excitement has nearly passed
away since I have informed those who had the means of making it public that the
Figure Head was ordered by myself 6 months ago unbeknownst to the Government
but yet fully known to one of the move active movers in the excitement."
[Enclosure]
"North
End ‑‑ 24th.
"We
have made you abandon the Constitution take Jacksons name of [sic] the dock or
in 48 ours [sic] you breath [sic] no more ‑
Many North
Enders
Como
Elliott
Navy Yard‑"
Roll 192 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 1 Mar 1834:
"I herewith enclose a copy of a
letter which I have this day sent to the Navy Commissioners in answer to one
from them of the 24th ulto directing a Billet Head and other plain ornaments to
be put on the Bow a [sic] Stern of the Constitution.
"As it is uncommon, as far as I
can learn, for the Board to say what ornaments shall be placed upon the public
Vessels repaired or Built at the different Naval Establishments I have deemed
it proper to bring the subject to your notice more particularly as I have
referred them to my letter to you of the 22nd ulto."
[Enclosed
copy]
From
Captain Elliott to Captain John Rodgers, BNC, 1 Mar 1834:
"I have received the Commissioners
letter of the 24th ultimo and have to remark in answer to that part which
refers to the ornaments of the bow and Stern of the Frigate Constitution that
some six months since after a conversation with the naval architect I concluded
upon different ornaments embracing the Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy
and the three victor captains.
"The former has so far progressed
as nearly to be completed and will be a remarkable [sic] strong resemblance to
the original.
"Should it ‑ under these
circumstances together with the excitement which has been so unnecessarily
gotten up for an apparent political effect ‑ be the wish of the Board
that the ornaments should be changed I must await their further instructions
and offer as my apology that on an examination of the papers on file in my
office I could find nothing which had offered as a guide to my predecessors but
what left the ornamenting of public vessels built or repaired at t his yard
entirely to their discretion."
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 31 Mar 1834:
"As the operations of this yard
have of late been subjected to the criticism and unnecessary attention of a few
of the citizens of Boston and its environs, and as several of my official acts
have been misrepresented through the Public prints, I have deemed it my duty to
give the Department a statement of facts relating to the subject, that should
any call be made upon it for Documents, it may be enabled to comply with it by
answering the whole subject at once.
"Having understood from the
Artist who was to carve the Figure Head for the Constitution, and from hand
bills extensively distributed outside that threats had been made against its
completion or removal, and wishing to prevent the people of Boston from being
eternally disgraced by a few heated political partizans [sic] by a midnight
movement, I determined to remove the head to the Yard in the usual manner,‑
that is by boxing it up, and bringing it from Boston in the Launch.
"I accordingly on the 21st inst
directed Sailing Master Hixon upon whose discretion I could rely, with a Boats
[sic] crew composed of the Seamen and Ordinary Seamen of the Yard, to proceed
to Boston and receive the Head‑ I
also ordered him not to take any arms with him nor to let any of his party.
"The Officer executed his duty at
9 oclock [sic] in the morning, and the whole affair was conducted to my entire
satisfaction‑
"In the evening of the same day,
having been informed by Anonymous hand bills and by the report of conversations
outside, that an attempt would be made to take the Head from the Yard; I sent
for Master Commandant Percival and directed him confidentially, to receive on
board the Columbus certain cutlasses and Boarding pikes that would be sent down
to him by Captain Smith, so that in case of any necessity they could be used by
the Seamen and Ordinary Seamen of the Yard: but of this necessity I stated both
to him and Captain Smith confidentially, I had no expectation of its occurring,
but still deemed it my duty to take this precautionary measure.
"Capt Percival received this
order without raising a question against complying with it, and went on board
as I concluded, to make necessary preparations for having it executed.
"Capt Smith the Executive Officer
of the yard was then ordered to send the arms on board, this he did by giving
instructions to the Gunner to go with them‑
"Upon the Gunners [sic] going on
board the ship, Capt Percival sent for him and refused to receive them without
a written order from Captain Smith,‑
The Gunner then went for Captain Smith, but not finding him returned and
took the arms away[.]
"The Gunner then reported the
same to me when I sent for Captain Percival and demanded an explanation‑
this he refused to give in any other manner than by saying 'he would receive no
orders from a Gunner'‑
"I told him that it was my order
and he knew it previously, he again replied he would receive no order from a
Gunner or any officer of a Navy Yard[.]
I then suspended him from duty and placed the direction of the ship in
the hands of Lt [Frederick] Varnum [ed: First Lieutenant of COLUMBUS], who
received the arms and executed the order with promptness.
"The next day Capt Smith came to
me and said that Capt Percival was wrong, and would probably make an
explanation that would be satisfactory.
"Captain Percival did so as per
copy marked A, and I restored him to
duty as per copy marked B.‑
"This Sir is the true statement
of the case and I should not have deemed it necessary to bring it to the notice
of the Department, were it not for the attempt that has been made to produce a
wrong impression upon the Public mind, without a proper disposition to correct
it."
Roll 193 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1834)
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 4 Apr 1834:
Forwards transfer request of Master
Commandant John Percival with his own request to make it so.
Roll 194 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
NOTHING
Roll 195 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1834)
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 19 Jun 1834:
Forwards a model of CONSTITUTION as
requested "during your visit to this establishment in July last."
Roll 196 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1835)
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 2 Jul 1834:
Reports that they "can commence
upon the Constitution immediately" after completing POTOMAC on 1 Sep. Expects that it will take "an exceeding
short time" to fit CONSTITUTION for sea.
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 3 Jul 1834:
"I herewith enclose a
communication from Lt. Commandant James Armstrong, of the Receiving Ship
Columbus, relating to an outrage committed upon the Frigate Constitution, a
Vessel of War of the United States, while moored between the 74s Columbus and
Independence at this yard, by some person, or persons, unknown.
"This insult to the Government
appears to have been long premeditated, and while the Head was in the
possession of the Carver in Boston, a bribe was offered to him, by three
persons, of high standing in the city, provided he would let them carry it off
and insult it, without molestation.‑
this [sic] bribe was rejected by the Carver, who gave me information
which induced me to have it removed to,
and finished at, this yard; as I informed the Department on the 31st of March
last.‑
"Some one however, last night, in
spite of the Sentinels and the Watch on board the Columbus, found means to
carry their project into execution during a severe storm of wind and rain.
"Suspicion rested at first upon
the marines on post, and the Ship keeper, but it seems to me at present, more
than probable that some person from outside the yard, concealed himself on
board the ship during the day, and at night, when the storm raged at its
highest, accomplished his work and made his escape. I come to this conclusion, as the lower gate
of this yard which is for the use of the Officers was found opened in the
morning, although fastened at 10 oclock, last night.
"A few days doubtless will enable
me to obtain further information as to the planners and executors of this
midnight outrage.‑
"Immediately upon learning the
fact, this morning, I sent for the Carver of the Head and demanded the names of
the individuals who offered him the bribe previous to its removal from his
charge, these he declined giving to me until compelled to do so, in due course
of law, as he said, he was under a charge of secrecy.
"From this, and other
circumstances I am satisfied, that the head was removed by some person who was
acting under the influence of a bribe.‑
"But a small part of the Head
however was mutilated, and that part will be replaced immediately.
"Understanding from the public
print that there has been a change in
the Head of the Department, I would respectfully call your attention to
my letters of the 22nd Febry and March 31st now on file in your office [for] a
correct statement of my transactions in regard to this ornament, from its
commencement to its removal to this yard.
"I am sorry to say that I
perceive a hostile feeling existing against the continuance of this ornament,
in the highest circles of those opposed to the administration.
"I make this communication that
the Department may give me such instructions with regard to taking legal steps
on the subject, as it may deem proper."
[Enclosure]
"U. S. Receiving
Ship, Columbus
Boston July 3rd 1834
"Sir
A Few minutes past, four oclock
this morning I was called and informed by Lieut [Peter] Turner the officer of
the deck that the Head of the Figure on the Bows of the Frigate Constitution
was gone,‑ on examination It appears to have been sawed off by some
person or persons from under the Bowsprit in the Head as there is a space of
two feet or less where a man could
stretch himself at full length and operate with a hand saw[.] It was taken off at the junction of the nose
and upper lip. A centinel [sic] was
placed on Board that ship at my request for some time past during the night for
the safety of recruits committed to any charge to Keep off all Boats &c a
ship Keeper or the lookout during the day.
I cannot readily conceive How the mutilation of the Figure could have
been affected without the Knowledge of the soldier on post‑ The ship Keeper left the centinel [sic] after
ten oclock last night at his post in the Bows of the ship, and remarked to him
that he slept on the Larboard side of the gun deck near the Bridle port ‑
that if he heard any suspicious noise to stamp on the deck and he would be up
immediately. The night was extremely
dark with uncommonly heavy rain with an occasional gust of wind &c &c.
I am Sir
very respectfully
Como your obt Svt
J D Elliott Jas Armstrong
U. S. Navy Lieut. commanding"
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 4 Jul 1834:
"I find the clerk of the yard
Samuel Etheridge to be strongly opposed to the Government.
"He has lately made bets that the
Figure Head of the Constitution would be mutilated and now exults that it has
been thus treated.
"He has also stated that he would
make it a point to see the Secretary of the Navy whenever he should be in be
same town with him and insult him, for he believed him to be a great Blackguard
and a mean dirty fellow (meaning Mr. Woodbury).
"As he is an officer of
appointment by the Commandant, with the consent of the Secretary of the Navy, I
cannot remove him without your authority.
"I therefore request that such
authority may be given me and that I may be authorized to appoint a clerk of
the yard in his place."
From
Captain Charles W. Morgan, Boston, MA, 4 Jul 1834:
Reapplies for command of CONSTITUTION
due the change in SecNav. He had applied
earlier, in Apr, while at Washington.
Roll 197 (August 1 ‑ 30, 1834)
NOTHING
Roll 198 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1834)
NOTHING
Roll 199 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
NOTHING
Roll 200 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1834)
NOTHING
Roll 201 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 7 Dec 1834:
Advises that, in view of the
precarious diplomatic relation with France and the inevitable delays New
England winter weather cause in the outfitting of ships, he has done a
"preparatory fitment of the Constitution and her rigging...is now in a
state of forwardness."
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 20 Dec 1834:
Reports having received instructions to
fit CONSTITUTION for sea.
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 27 Dec 1834:
Requests order to CONSTITUTION for
Lieutenant J. H. Ward of Connecticut, Midshipman George Terry Sinclair of
Virginia, and Passed Midshipman Stedman [sic: Charles Steedman] of South
Carolina. [Sinclair and Steedman were so
ordered.]
Roll 202 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1835)
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 5 Jan 1835:
Reports that the severe winter has
resulted in the harbor icing over "as far down as Fort Independence,"
and this may cause a delay in CONSTITUTION's sailing at the time expected.
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 19 Jan 1835:
Requests that Gunner Thomas Ryley and
Boatswain William Hart be ordered to CONSTITUTION, as well as Acting Carpenter
James Miskelly. [Ed: Ryley was so ordered.]
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 22 Jan 1835:
"Official
but confidential...
"This day I was called upon by
the Artist Mr Laban S Beecher who executed the Ornaments for the Frigate
Constitution who prefaced his remarks by stating that he had been called upon
by Captain Benjamin Rich and others the former an East India Merchant of Boston
doubtless the same East India Merchant to whom reference was made in my letter
to the Department of the 5th of July apprizing it of the mutiliation of the
Figure Head of the Constitution who prefaced his remarks with the statement
that he Mr Beecher was authorized to call and see me and say that any Figure
which I might name save that of General Jackson would be made and placed upon
the Ship without expense to the Government‑‑ to which I replied
that the Figure had been mutilated in the most barbarous and wanton manner that
the object for which it had been taken away by them had I supposed been accomplished
and that the mutilated portion could only be received to which he replied that
he believed it was all cut up‑‑
I farther [sic] stated that I had no control over the subject which
belonged to the Government and that I would not repair this or allow another
image to be placed there without its authority.
"He then stated that they
remarked that the Ship would not be allowed to go to Sea with even the
remaining part of the image on her bows even if they were compelled to resort
to placing Guns at the narrows to prevent her passage out[.] I replied that they had better think well of
that subject and desired the conversation to cease as I wished to have none on
this subject. the [sic] Artist Mr
Beecher then took his leave.
"I have however deemed it my duty
to give such orders to redouble our vigilance without ostentation so that 500
men could not injure the ship further than they have done.
"Since your departure from this
place with a determination not to repair the Figure I have had a marine sentinel
with an Officer by his side constantly at night to defend it[.]
"I believe I have not brought to
your notice the fact that a second attempt was made to carry off a larger
portion of the figure on the night of the 5th of July but which proved abortive
as they were discovered, I believe one of the Actors was drowned in attempting
to escape while the other succeeded in passing the wall; the Boat however in which the attempt was
made was captured and is now at this yard.
"P.S. I understand these people perfectly well you
need therefore feel under no apprehension[.]
From the present appearance of the Weather I think I shall have the Ship
ready for her Officers & men by the 15th of next month‑‑ I shall deem it my duty if necessary to see
the Ship outside the narrows when she
departs the Port."
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 26 Jan 1835:
Reports CONSTITUTION will be ready for
officers and men "in 10 Days."
Roll 203 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1835)
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 9 Feb 1835:
Reports CONSTITUTION ready to receive
crew.
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 24 Feb 1835:
Reports that "tomorrow" he
will embark in CONSTITUTION 132 seamen, 50 ordinary seamen, 53 landsmen, 26
boys, and "the Marine Guard fom New York." This is 18 seamen and 67 ordinary seamen
short of complement. Lieutenants Ellery,
Pearson, and Neville, Sailing Master Ferguson, Purser Etting, Chaplain Everett,
3 midshipmen, the gunner, and the carpenter have reported for duty. Five months worth of provisions have been
stowed; the rest are to be delivered at New York by 10 March. Expects to be at sea "in 6 Days."
"I have 14 Rounds of Ammunition
[per gun] now filled and on board the Ship and as naval Actions are determined
in a very short time I expect I shall have powder sufficient to meet any
contingency which might occur...
"I have caused a plan of the part
taken from the Figure Head to be sent to the Artist whom you named at New York
who will I trust be enabled to have the same got out so as to be ready to be
placed upon the Figure shortly after my arrival...
"...the Constitution cannot I
think be other than the fastest sailer in the Navy."
From
Captain Jessse D. Elliott, Boston Navy Yard, 25 Feb 1835:
Forwards report of ship's inspection board.
"I agree with them perfectly in
their opinion of the Channels and lest you might think that I had been
instrumental in placing them there, I herewith enclose the copies of letters
which have passed between the Commissioners and myself in relation to the same.
"Upon my expressing my opinion,
to the Surveying Officers, of the channels after they had finished, they
politely furnished me with a copy of their letter to the Board which will
undoubtedly be laid before you.
"Feeling however desirous to have
the whole matter settled at once, I have forwarded the copy as stated above and
upon my arrival at New York shall be enabled to report fully upon the chains
& channels."
[Enclosures]
Ltr
from Elliott to Captain John Rodgers, BNC, 26 Mar 1834:
"Herewith you will find a box
containing [word omitted; possibly "models"] of the Gun Deck &
ports of a Frigate with the chains.
"The one made in the usual manner
(the Board will perceive by placing the wooden gun upon the pivot in the center
of the port) will prevent the gun raking fore and aft almost two points more
than the other channel, which is bent to an inverted arc.
"My attention has been brought to
this subject by the conviction that the Guns have not a sufficient rake, owing
to the obstruction of the chains formed in the usual manner.
"As I wish to give the officer
commanding that Ship every possible means of defending her, I would suggest
that the chains for the Constitution, on each side of the ports where they
interfere, should be formed & fitted in the new manner now presented to the
Board."
Ltr
from Captain John Rodgers, BNC, to Elliott, 21 Apr 1834:
"The caulking & first coat of
paint may be put on the Constitution as it will not interfere with any
disposition of the channels which the Board may eventually direct."
Ltr
from Captain Isaac Chauncey, BNC, to Elliott, 28 May 1834:
"The Constitution need not be
detained in dock on account of her chains and channels for which the Board will
give instruction in due season.
Ltr
from Elliott to Captain John Rodgers, BNC, 30 Aug 1834:
Reports his Naval Constructor is at a
loss as to how to attach the channels in the new position on CONSTITUTION;
requests instructions.
Ltr
from Captain Charles Morris, BNC, to Elliott, 3 Sep 1834:
"You will be pleased to direct
the underside of the Channels of the Frigate Constitution to be placed on the
lower part of the second strake above the spar deck port cill [sic] (as pointed out by the
Commissioners when they were at the Navy Yard) so far from the seam only as
will allow for caulking‑ this will bring the under part of the channels
about 16 or 17 inches above the Spar deck.
"The chain bolts are to be driven
in the strake next above the top of the gun deck ports, abut one third of the
width of the strake from its lower edge.
The preventer bolts are to go through the strake of spirketing next
above the gun deck water ways."
Ltr
from Captain John Rodgers, BNC, to Elliott, 31 Oct 1834:
"Before the Board gave the
instructions to raise the Channels of the frigate Constitution they consulted
ship Builders & had the experience afforded by the Frigate Hudson. They are unable to perceive how the use of
the spar deck guns can be more injured or impeded by raising the Channels than
they would have been with them placed as usual, if they & the dead eyes
have been placed as directed, nor are they able to comprehend what danger can
be reasonably apprehended to to [sic] persons stationed on the spar deck from
the concussion of her main deck guns, or that their exertions will be thus
destroyed in action, or that the spar deck guns will be rendered useless ‑
under these expressions & the circumstances of case, the Board do not deem
it expedient to order a Board of Naval Officers & architects to examine
& report on a subject upon which they have deliberately decided."
Ltr
from Elliott to Captain John Rodgers, BNC, 8 Nov 1834:
"I have received the Commssrs
letter of the 31st ult. The one to which
it is an answer was written after finding an universal condemnation [sic] of
the arrangements of the Channels of the Constitution by every Officer of rank
who had visited the Yard & had seen them, including Com. Creighton, who
commanded the Hudson on her cruise to the Brazils. The Constructor of this Yard & other architects
not belonging to the service had observed them, coincided in opinion &
believed the Ship would be much weakened by the arrangement.
"The particular effects to which
I alluded would arise from the Channels being shortened to fit between each
port & thus allow the concussion to ascend & descend when as previously
arranged each gun on the gun & spar deck having the projecting channels
were secure from the effects of concussion, now it is the reverse; when the
carronades are depressed, the intervening dead eye prevents training more than
1/2 a point. The channels are arranged
exactly in conformity to the Commissioners instructions of the 4th Sept last.
"The subject has been brought to
the notice of the Board in a conscientious discharge of my duty as Comdt of
this yard, of course the subject rests here, trusting that the arrangements as
made by the instructions may be satisfactory in the end that the matter might
be finally settled, as the standing rigging for the present arrangement will be
considerably shorter than if the channels were lower down & if changed
would then be too short, & as the Contractor is called upon to let the
yarns lay three months in Tar, no time was to be lost."
Ltr
from Elliott to Captain John Rodgers, BNC, 14 Feb 1835:
"The chain pumps for the
Constitution are now fitted & work to my entire satisfaction. I wish however I could say as much in praise
of the chains & channels of the Ship but the accompanying plates will
convince the Board of the insecurity of trusting to them or to the bolts when
fitted in that manner upon setting up the rigging the Shrouds drew the bolts
into the wood & twisted & fractured the plates as you will
perceive. to [sic] obviate this
difficulty I caused the plates to be made stouter & a little larger, but
still there seems to be danger of their giving away to extraordinary strains.
"I shall however proceed to New
York in her in a short time & during my passage shall pay particular
attention ot them & if necessary make a more full report to the Board from
hence.
"Should the Board conclude to
continue this mode in other Ships, I should recommend that the channels should
be placed lower down & thus take the dead eyes altogether from the range of
the Gun when placed at its lowest depression & that a permanent iron
fixture be placed within to give greater security to the bolts that hold the
chains."
Ltr
from Captains J. Downes and T. H. Stevens to Captain John Rodgers, BNC, 25 Feb
1835:
"In compliance with the order of
the Honble Secretary of the Navy, we have examined into the repairs &
equipment of the Constitution & the state & fitness of that Vessel for
service at sea & of the manner & fidelity with which the repairs &c
have been executed, & have to report to the Board of Navy Commissioners
that her repairs, so far as we can judge from appearances not having seen her
during the time her repairs were being made have been thorough & made with
perfect fidelity. Her equipment is
certainly of the very first order ‑ indeed we may say she is fitted in
every respect in very superior style‑
We feel however constrained to remark that in our opinion, the security
of the masts is considerably impaired in consequence of the raising of her
Channels from their original position, to where they now are[.] The dead eyes & lanyards of the lower
rigging also, interfered more with the training of the spar deck guns, in
consequence of raising the channels. In
every other respect the ship is in our opinion fully prepared for service at
sea."
Roll 204 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1835)
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, USS CONSTITUTION, 2 Mar 1835:
Reports underway in CONSTITUTION from
Boston for New York.
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 Mar 1835:
Reports his arrival in CONSTITUTION
off Sandy Hook.
"During a part of the passage the
weather was exceedingly boisterous thereby affording me an opportunity of
testing the properties of this Ship[.]
"It will be recollected that at
the time she was launched in 1797 she hung on the ways in consequence of which
she became hogged to a considerable extent say 2 1/2 feet. When recently docked at the Navy Yard at
Boston particular attention was paid by me to remedy this defect by means of
chocks &c and the Ship is now restored to her original architectural form
with all the properties appertaining to her superior model; and I now
unhesitatingly say that there is not a more weatherly fine and faster ship in
the service n fact the Constitution almost beats herself[.] I beg leave to state that whatever articles
belonging to her equipment which were not received at Boston I have ordered to
be forwarded to New York[.] I found it
necessary to call into requisition the services of Surgeon Doyers[.] On the Surgeons joining the Constitution I
shall order him to resume his previous duty at the Yard at Boston..."
Purser Etting also will join at New
York. Expects to be towed up to the city
by a steamboat at 10 AM tomorrow through "a great deal of drifting
ice."
"You may not be aware of the fact
that there existed in Boston an inquisitional disposition as to the repairing
of the mutilation of the Figure Head one supposing it had been repaired there
and the other that it would be in New York this disposition however I have
taken no steps to gratify.
"Having placed a covering of
Canvas upon it soon after its mutilation I have not had it exposed but previous
to leaving Boston I had it enveloped in the American Flag and left the Port in
that appropriate manner."
From
Captain Charles G. Ridgely, New York NY, 9 Mar 1835:
Reports that CONSTITUTION arrived at
the bar on the 5th, and requested a tow to the city. But his request was not received until 10 PM
on the 7th, long after a gale arising on the morning of the 6th had forced the
frigate out to sea. As it is snowing
heavily now, it is presumed she will remain offshore until the weather clears.
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, USS CONSTITUTION, 11 Mar 1835:
"Knowing the wishes of the
Government, and being well aware of your previous communications of my
destination, I assumed command of the Constitution previous to the reception of
my regular appointment to her, calculating to be in New York in a short time
where I could receive it."
A gale on the 6th forced him offshore
after losing his bower anchor and 15 fathoms of chain cable. Made the Hook again on the 8th, crossed the
bar on the 9th, and with the aid of a steam boat came to the city this morning,
exchanging 13 gun salutes with the French brig of war D'Apas. Commodore Ridgely has provided a replacement
anchor and chain.
"If in leaving Boston, I have
given offence by displaying the American Ensign upon the Figure Head of the
president, the same disposition does not seem to exist here, for upon my
entering this port the different vessels bound out paid salutes by lowering
their Flags as they passed..."
From
Captain Jesse D. Elliott, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Mar 1835:
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