|
M 0148 FROM OFFICERS BELOW THE RANK OF COMMANDER
AND FROM WARRANT OFFICERS, 1802-1884,
IN
NATIONAL ARCHIVES (517 ROLLS)
Note: Only those rolls covering periods when CONSTITUTION was in squadron service have been researched.
Roll 1, Vol 1 (April 29, 1802 ‑ December 30,
1805)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (January 1 ‑ May 31, 1806)
NOTHING
Roll 2, Vol 3 (June 2 ‑ August 30, 1806)
From
Midshipman Octavus A. Page, 2 Jun 1806:
[Note spelling of first name: occurs
four times.]
From
Midshipman Lewis Hunt,
Acknowledges receipt of SecNav letter
soliciting subscriptions for the
From
Lieutenant Charles Ludlow, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Jul 1806:
Reports remaining in the
Vol 4 (September 1 ‑ December 31, 1806)
From
Midshipman Walter Winter, Allens Fresh, MD, 1 Sep 1806:
Notes receipt of SecNav letter
circulating a letter from Captain Porter seeking contributions for the
From
George Davis,
CONSTITUTION has gone to
Roll 3, Vol 5 (January 1 ‑ April 30, 1807)
From
Midshipman Jacob Hite, 14 Feb 1807:
[Note spelling of last name.]
Vol 6 (May 1 ‑ July 31, 1807)
NOTHING
Roll 4, Vol 7 (August 1 ‑ December 31, 1807)
From
Surgeon Samuel D. Heap, 31 Oct 1807:
Written on board CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman James P. Wilmer, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Nov 1807:
Requests leave.
From
Surgeon's Mate George Colegate, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Nov 1807:
Requests leave.
From
Midshipman Thomas Shields, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Nov 1807:
Requests 2‑3 months leave to
regain health.
From
Midshipman James Marshall, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Nov 1807:
Requests leave.
From
Purser Gwinn Harris, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Nov 1807:
Money receipt.
From
Lieutenant Melancthon T. Woolsey, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Dec 1807:
Leave request; notes crew "about
to be discharged."
From
Purser James Tootell, USS WASP, 5 Dec 1807:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or
other frigate.
From
Midshipman James McGlanhon, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Dec 1807:
Settling accounts.
From
Acting Midshipman Divier Rouchas, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Dec 1807:
Requests a regular warrant, noting he
transferred to CONSTITUTION from ESSEX in the
Vol 8 (January 2 ‑ April 30, 1808)
From
Midshipman P. Muhlenberg, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Mar 1808:
Requests transfer to the New Orleans
Station.
Roll 5, Vol 9 (May 1 ‑ December 31, 1808)
From
Bary [sic: former Ordinary Seaman Bernard] McDermott,
Sailed from
From
Midshipman William C. Hazell,
Received warrant in January; requests
orders to CONSTITUTION "or any other vessel."
Vol 10 (January 1 ‑ March 31, 1809)
From
Captain John Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, to Captain Joseph Smith,
Midshipman Joseph E. Smith is on
board.
From
Surgeon J. G. Hunt,
Learned "this morning" he is
ordered to CONSTITUTION. Regrets that
poor health will preclude his service.
From
Purser James Tootell, USS WASP, 10 Feb 1809:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Ordered to USS PRESIDENT.]
From
Lieutenant Francis J. Mitchell, USS ARGUS, 12 Feb 1809:
Acknowledges orders to CONSTITUTION as
Acting Lieutenant. Will join when ARGUS
reaches
From
Purser Clement S. Hunt, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Mar 1809:
Submits his bond.
Roll 6, Vol 11 (April 1 ‑ June 26,
1809)[mislabeled June 26 ‑ August 31, 1809]
From
Lieutenant Charles Ludlow, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Jun 1809:
Makes a complaint.
From
Lieutenant George W. Reed,
Acknowledges orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant Charles Ludlow, USS VIXEN, 11 Jul 1809:
Reports assuming command.
From
Lieutenant George W. Reed,
Tenders resignation.
From
Lieutenant James Renshaw,
Reports bringing a draft of petty
officers and men from
From
Midshipman William Campbell,
Received his warrant in February. Hoped for a "birth" in
CONSTITUTION, but was told she was full.
Would still like to be in that ship.
Roll 7, Vol 13 (September 1 ‑ December 31, 1809)
From
Midshipman John H. Elton, USS JOHN
Once captained Gunboat 51
"Constitution's Tender;" but sailed with his crew in Gunboat 97,
although not formally in commission, because she was in better shape. Made some captures. Asks about his official status at the time
and whether or not he and his crew are due prize money.
From
Lieutenant Theodore Hunt, USS HORNET, 26 Oct 1809:
Dr. Thorn now in "city" [
From
Surgeon's Mate John Reynolds, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Nov 1809:
Requests leave.
Vol 14 (January 1 ‑ June 30, 1810)
From Lieutenant Theodore Hunt, USS HORNET, 30
Mar 1810;
Notes that CONSTITUTION has
"dropped down to the Hook."
Had been using the services of her Surgeon for his crew. Requests one.
From
Lieutenant Ralph Izard,
Has gotten Commodore Rodgers'
permission to leave CONSTITUTION. Tenders
his resignation.
From
Lieutenant Charles L. Ridgely,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Chaplain Robert Thompson, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 May 1810:
Ship is expected to sail at 1500 that
day for
From
Lieutenant Ralph Izard,
Explains that his resignation was due
to a disagreement with Commodore Rodgers in which he felt he was ill‑used.
From
Chaplain Robert Thompson, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 May 1810:
Certifies that Midshipman Horatio F.
Marcellin has completed his course in celestial navigation on board.
From
Thomas Salter,
Requests his son, Midshipman William
D. Salter, be ordered to serve under Captain Isaac Hull [soon to be in
CONSTITUTION]. [So ordered.]
From
Lieutenant Theodore Hunt, USS HORNET, 23 May 1810:
Arrived at
From
Lieutenant Samuel Woodhouse,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION. Reports he has already
signed on a merchant voyage in the expectation of being granted a requested
furlough. Requests cancellation of
orders. [Cancelled.]
From Midshipman Wolcott Chauncey,
Requests a furlough due to health.
Roll 8, Vol 15 (July 2 ‑ December 28, 1810)
From
Midshipman William B. Hall,
Requests cancellation of furlough; has
been invited to join CONSTITUTION by Captain Hull. [Not granted.]
From
Commodore John Rodgers, USS PRESIDENT, to SecNav, 23 Jul 1810:
Received enclosed furlough request
from CONSTITUTION yesterday. Mr.
[Lieutenant F. H.] Mitchell, now in
From
Captain Isaac Hull, USS CONSTITUTION, to Midshipman Stephen Wilson, 23 Jul
1810:
Grants permission for him to stay
ashore until his health improves.
From
Thomas Y. Sprogell,
Requests 3‑month furlough for
his son, Midshipman Sylvanus Sprogell, in CONSTITUTION. [Young Sprogell fell overboard and drowned,
26 Oct 1810.]
From
Midshipman Nathaniel D. Nicholson, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Sep 1810:
Requests transfer to USS
ENTERPRIZE. [Granted.]
From
Surgeon Samuel R. Trevett, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Oct 1810:
Leave request.
From
Gunner William Taylor, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Dec 1810:
Leave request.
From
Gunner William Taylor, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Dec 1810:
Again requests leave.
Vol 16 (January 1 ‑ May 31, 1811)
From
Midshipman John Packett, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Feb 1811:
Requests transfer after having been a
second in a duel.
From
Surgeon Samuel R.Trevett, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Feb 1811:
Submits his resignation.
From
Lieutenant Charles Morris, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, to Commodore John Rodgers, 7
Mar 1811:
Submits a harbor survey report of
From
Lieutenant Stephen Cassin,
Acknowledges receipt of order of 21
May to open a rendezvous for seamen for CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant Stephen Cassin,
No seamen recruited yet; merchantmen
are paying $20‑25 per month.
From
Lieutenant Stephen Cassin,
Only one seaman shipped to date.
Roll 9, Vol 17 (June 2 ‑ December 31, 1811)
From
Lieutenant Stephen Cassin,
HORNET has transferred needed seamen
to CONSTITUTION; will recruit for HORNET.
From
Midshipman James Reilly, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Jun 1811:
Requests settlement of pay question.
From
Lieutenant Alexander S. Wadsworth, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Jun 1811:
Responds to questions as to how
Anthony Mitchell was shipped at
From
Surgeon's Mate Samuel Gilliland, USS CONSTITUTION, 19 Jul 1811:
Concerning promotion. [Resigned in Jun 1812.]
From
Midshipman S. Nelson Phelps, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Jul 1811:
Requests 2‑3 weeks leave in
From
Midshipman Charles T. Stallings, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Aug 1811:
Reports his return to health and
requests permission to rejoin ship.
Vol 18 (January 1 ‑ May 31, 1812)
From
Midshipman Frederick Gibbon,
On leave from CONSTITUTION; requests
orders to USS UNITED STATES. [Granted.]
From
Surgeon's Mate Samuel Gilliland, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Mar 1812:
Demands promotion.
From
Purser Isaac Garretson, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Mar 1812:
Gives a statement of service; wishes
reappointment as Purser. [A 14 Mar 1812
letter from Captain Isaac Hull is enclosed.]
From
Sailing Master H. Wilkinson, Gunboat 67, 19 Mar 1812:
Have delivered goods offloaded from
CONSTITUTION at
From
Surgeon Samuel R. Trevett, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Mar 1812:
A letter of recommendation for Dr.
[Surgeon's Mate] Charles Cotton.
From
Sailing Master Nehemiah Drew,
Questions rumor he is to be ordered to
CONSTITUTION. [Not so.]
From
Surgeon Thomas Ewell,
Notes the arrival of many CONSTITUTION
sick in local hospital, with resultant overcrowding; offers to forego a year's
pay if money can be used to improve the situation through the building of a
proper facility.
From
Midshipman Henry Olcott, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Apr 1812:
Submits resignation.
Roll 10, Vol 19 (June 1 ‑ August 31, 1812)
From
Midshipman Andrew Haslett,
Requests cancellation of orders to
CONSTITUTION and furlough due to bad health.
[Granted.]
From
Lieutenant Stephen Cassin,
Proceed in schooner HAPPY RETURN, John
Hand, master, to
N.B.
At the mouth of the Potomac, call at St. Mary's to learn whether the
ship is in the river or at
From
Chaplain Andrew Hunter,
Four or five "very
illiterate" midshipmen have been set ashore from CONSTITUTION, "by
your order I presume." What is to
be done with them? "Forrest and
Snelson are among the above."
From
Lieutenant Charles Morris, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Jun 1812:
Requests transfer.
From
Chaplain John Cook,
Arrived in
From
Midshipman George Getz,
Desires orders to PRESIDENT, HORNET,
CONSTITUTION, or ARGUS, all of whom are expected at the city.
From
Lieutenant Oliver H. Perry,
Captain Mabury of brig RISING SUN says
"when he left Constitution she was standing to the Eastd. under easy
sail."
From
Lieutenant Oliver H. Perry,
Reports being told of capture of USS
NAUTILUS "off the high lands...by the English" on the 16th by
merchant Captain Blunt, former master of a vessel also taken by the
English. NAUTILUS sent to
The British squadron had taken 14
merchantmen. One, brig DISPATCH of
From
Lieutenant Charles Morris, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Aug 1812:
Arthur O. Tone was shipped for
PRESIDENT, turned over to CONSTITUTION, and discharged in July 1811 "by
your order." He said nothing about
his "connexions." When I was
in
From
Doctor Charles Cotton, 2 Aug 1812:
Requests duty in CONSTITUTION.
From
Chaplain John Cook,
Still awaiting CONSTITUTION and in need
of funds. What to do?
Vol 20 (September 1 ‑ December 31, 1812)
From
Midshipman William D. McCarty,
I learned from an officer of
CONSTITUTION who arrived here this morning of her success. Request permission to proceed to join her in
From
Chaplain John Cook,
Learned of CONSTITUTION's success from
one of her officers who arrived here this morning. What do you want me to do? I need money to travel.
From
Midshipman Thomas Holdup, USS JOHN
Request transfer to CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant William B. Shubrick, USS HORNET, 6 Sep 1812:
Request transfer to CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant Charles Morris, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Sep 1812:
Leave request [to recover from abdominal
wound suffered in battle with HMS GUERRIERE].
From
Surgeon's Mate John D. Armstrong, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Sep 1812:
Requests transfer to the Boston Navy
Yard. [Endorsed by Surgeon Amos Evans.]
From
Midshipman Z. W. Nixon, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Oct 1812:
Reports his arrival on board on 25 Sep
1812.
From
Midshipman John Packett, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Oct 1812:
Reports his arrival on board on 16 Oct
1812.
From
Midshipman George W. Storer,
Sailed in PRESIDENT and CONSTITUTION
with Captain [Charles] Morris. Request
orders to USS ADAMS.
From
Midshipman Silas N. Phelps, "Porthampton," VA, 14 Nov 1812:
I presume you knew Capt. Hull left me
here sick after CONSTITUTION returned from
Roll 11, Vol 21 (January 2 ‑ April 30, 1813)
From Sailing Master James P. Oellers,
"...there are no vacancies on
board...Constitution..."
From
Midshipman Joel Abbot [sic], 19 Mar 1813:
Requests duty in CONSTITUTION.
Vol 22 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1813)
From
Midshipman William Taylor,
Furlough began 24 March, now
done. "Not having as yet received
my prize money for the Guerriere and Java Frigates..."
From
Surgeon's Mate Charles Cotton, USS CONSTITUTION, 19 May 1813:
Reported aboard 11 Apr 1813.
From
Midshipman Thomas Crabb, USS CONSTELLATION, 22 May 1813:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Samuel Bullus, USS ALERT, 25 May 1813:
In Navy since January 1809. With Commodore Rodgers in CONSTITUTION and
PRESIDENT "two years" until furloughed in April 1811. Wants orders to the Lakes. [Granted, as Acting Lieutenant.]
From
"1st" Surgeon's Mate John D. Armstrong, USS CONSTITUTION, 31 May
1813:
Was born in
From
Purser E. W. Turner, USS ENTERPRIZE, 23 Jun 1813:
Volunteers to fill CONSTITUTION's
reported need for a Purser. [No.]
Roll 12, Vol 23 (July 1 ‑ September 30, 1813)
From
Midshipman Thomas N. Bonneville, USS ALERT, 7 Jul 1813:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From Midshipman Silas N. Phelps,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or
MACEDONIAN. Now healthy.
From
Lieutenant William B. Shubrick, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Jul 1813:
"...particularly anxious to join
Constitution..." [Annotated: see if
Stewart wants him. He did.]
From
Lieutenant Charles Ridgely, 24 Jul 1813:
Requests duty in CONSTITUTION.
From
Surgeon's Mate Benjamin Austin, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Aug 1813:
Reporting for duty in CONSTITUTION.
From
Dr. Richard C. Gregory, USS CONSTELLATION, 1 Sep 1813:
Wishes orders to accompany Surgeon
William Turk from CONSTELLATION to CONSTITUTION as his Surgeon's Mate. Has been Acting Surgeon's Mate in
CONSTELLATION for 2 years. [Annotated:
nominate him to Senate as Surgeon's Mate.]
From
Midshipman Lewis E. Simonds, 2 Sep 1813:
Requests duty in CONSTITUTION, from
furlough.
From
Dr. Richard C. Gregory, USS CONSTELLATION, 8 Sep 1813:
Surgeon Turk "has just
departed" for CONSTITUTION. Again
requests orders. [Not granted.]
Vol 24 (October 1 ‑ December 30, 1813)
From
Midshipman Frederick Varnum, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Oct 1813:
Has been in CONSTITUTION since Apr
1813; now indisposed; will carry out orders to join SIREN when better.
From
Surgeon William Turk,
Has joined PRESIDENT, replacing
Surgeon Robert L. Thorn, as Dr. Cotten has remained in CONSTITUTION.
From
Surgeon's Mate John D. Armstrong, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Oct 1813:
Requests shore duty. [Annotated: no place for him now.]
From
Acting Sailing Master Samuel Cooper, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Nov 1813:
A recent member of
From
Acting Surgeon's Mate Artemas Johnson, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Nov 1813:
Has been on board since 8 Aug 1813.
From
Surgeon's Mate John D. Armstrong, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Dec 1813:
As someone born in
Roll 13, Vol 25 (January 1 ‑ March 31, 1814)
NOTHING
Vol 26 (April 1 ‑ June 30, 1814)
From
Midshipman William R. F. Chamberlain,
Requests duty in CONSTITUTION as
"there is now a vacancy".
[Sent to the
From
Lieutenant William M. Hunter,
Was granted leave by Captain Stewart
upon death of his father. Requests leave
be extended another 2 weeks to settle his affairs. [Approved to 11 May, then return to
CONSTITUTION.]
From
Lieutenant Henry E. Ballard, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 May 1814:
Requests leave [granted]; also would
like duty with Commodore Bainbridge in
From
Midshipman John C. Long, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 May 1814:
Has been on sea duty "about 18
mos."; wants orders to Portsmouth (NH) Navy Yard.
From
Surgeon Charles Cotton, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 May 1814:
Reports that Doctor John A. Kearney at
From
Surgeon John A. Kearney,
Also reports on proposed exchange.
Vol 27 (July 1 ‑ October 31, 1814)
NOTHING
Vol 28 (November 2 ‑ December 31, 1814)
From
Sailing Master Samuel C. Hixon, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Nov 1814:
Has sailed with Captain Stewart for 16
months; requests command of one of small (harassing) vessels the Navy is
rumored to be considering if CONSTITUTION is not to be ordered to sea.
From
Midshipman James Greenlaw, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Nov 1814:
Has been in CONSTITUTION throughout
the war; if she remains blockaded, wants to leave to join a privateer. [Approved if Captain Stewart will agree.]
From
Midshipman John M. Channing,
Requests orders to CONGRESS or
CONSTITUTION. Was wounded while in
PRESIDENT.
Roll 14, Vol 29 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1815)
From
Surgeon's Mate Archimedes Smith,
Wishes orders to CONSTITUTION under
Captain Sinclair, lately appointed, when his health is regained. [Ordered to USS NIAGARA.]
Vol 30 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1815)
From
Lieutenant Beekman V. Hoffman,
Reports his arrival with
CONSTITUTION's prize, HMS CYANE.
From
Lieutenant Beekman V. Hoffman,
"I have the favor to inform you,
that. on the morning of the 20th of February last, while Cruising
off Madeira the United States Frigate Constitution fell iin with his Britanic
[sic] Majestys Ships Cyane and Levant, which she captured after and Action of
50 minutes.—
"The Cyane is a Frigate built
Ship, mounting 34 Carriage Guns (vizt.) 22, 32 lb Carronades on the Main Deck,
8 18 lb Carronades on the Quarter Deck 2 18 lb Carronades and 2 long nines on
the Forecastle, andfrom the best information I could obtain carrying a
Complement of 175 Men Commanded by Gordon Falcon Esqr. The
"On the 9th of March
the Constitution with her two Prizes in Company, anchored off the Isle of May -
(one of the Cape De Verd Islands). On
the 10th at 5 AM Got underway and made Sail for St. Iago's where we
anchored at 10.45 AM.- On the 12th
at 1/2 past
"I cannot conclude my Letter
without particularly recommending to your Notice Midshipamn Joseph Cross, for
whose unremitted Attention and Exertions I feel myself greatly indebted, and he
is a young Man who I think wouold do honorto a Commission.
"And to Midshipman James Delany,
and James Curtis.- and the few Men I have under my Command words would be
insufficient to express my gratitude towards them."
[Note:
The annotation on the outside of the letter terms Cyane a "Sloop of
War."]
Vol 31 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1815)
From
Lieutenant Henry E. Ballard,
"I have the honour to make known
to you my arrival at this place with a part of the Officers and crew of the
U.S. frigate Constitution, captured in a prize, the Levant, in the harbour of
Porto Praya in the island of St. Iago, by a Squadron of His Brittannic
Majesty's Ships, consisting of the Leander Sir George Collier, the Newcastle,
Lord George Stewart, and the Acasta Capt. Kerr;- for the particulars of my
recapture I beg leave to refer you to the enclosed extract from the Log Book of
the Levant.
"Having caused the destruction
of my own papers as well as those of the Officers with me, I can only say
to you relative to the Constitution that after leaving the Port
of Boston she Severally cruised off the islands of Bermuda and Madeira, in the
Bay of Biscay, and for some time in sight of the Rock of Lisbon, without having
met with but two of the Enemy's vessels, one of which was destroyed the other ordered
in; and that, on the evening of the 20th February, the island of
Madeira bearing WSW distant 70 leagues, fell in with, engaged, and after a
close action of 40 minutes captured H.B. Majestys Ships Cyane Capt. Gordon
Falcon, and Levant Honble Captain Douglass.
"It would, Sir be deemed
presumption in me to attempt to give you particular details, respectinig the
nature of this action I shall therefore, only remark generally that every
Officer, seaman and marine on board did their duty. I canot, however, deny myself the pleasure
that this opportunity affords me of noticing the brilliant management of
Captaini Charles Stewart, through whose unerring judgment every attempt of an
ingenious Enemy to gain a raking position was frustrated.
[Enclosures}
The
Cyane mounted on her Main deck twenty two 32 lb Carronades on her Upper deck,
ten 18 lb Carronades, two long 9s, and one 12 lb. Carronade on a traveling
carriage, with a complement of 175 men. The men.
"The
Constitution had 4 killed and 9 wounded
Cyane 7
killed 17 wounded
Levant 9
killed 17 wounded"
"Extract
from the Log Book of Ship
From
Lieutenant Beekman V. Hoffman, USS CYANE, 8 May 1815:
Having seen Ballard's letter, above,
corrects the statement in his 10 Apr letter that
From
Lieutenant Beekman V. Hoffman,
CYANE condemned yesterday as lawful
prize. Is the Government to purchase
her? Desires to continue in command.
From
Surgeon's Mate Artemas Johnson, 17 May 1815:
Was serving in CONSTITUTION and later
taken prisoner while a member of the LEVANT prize crew, returned to
From
Lieutenant N. L. Montgomery, 22 May 1815:
Requests duty in CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Shubael Pratt, Midfield, NY, 3 Jun 1815:
Dr. "Carney" [
From
Master's Mate Nathaniel G. Leighton, 6 Jun 1815:
Says he sailed "five years"
with "Capt Stewart & Mr. Ballard...as well as Commodore
Bainbridge"; lost his orders as Acting Sailing Master in LEVANT; wants
reconfirmation of the position.
From
Surgeon's Mate Benjamin Austin, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Jun 1815:
Has been in CONSTITUTION for two
cruises; requests leave.
From
Midshipman Horace B. Sawyer, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Jun 1815:
Requests leave.
From
Sailing Master Samuel C. Hixon, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Jun 1815:
Requests leave.
From
Midshipman James Greenlaw,
Got furlough on 15 Nov 1814 to go in
privateer PRINCE DE NEUFCHATEL as 2nd officer.
Captured by Sir George Collier's squadron shortly after sailing in Dec
and sent to
From
Surgeon's Mate Benjamin Austin, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Jun 1815:
Acknowledges receipt of furlough
permission.
From
Lieutenant George W. Rodgers, USS FIREFLY, 26 Jun 1815:
Reports finding Ely Mason, a deserter
from CONSTITUTION, in his crew. On
CONSTITUTION, known as Ebenezer Aleby [Alaby].
Had shipped for JAVA, but sent here with Commodore Decatur's
consent. Orders? [Court martial at
Roll 15, Vol 32 (July 1 ‑ September 30, 1815)
From
Lieutenant George W. Rodgers,
Ely Mason, alias Ebenezer Abely,
although in double irons and under a sentinel's charge, slipped the irons and
escaped "the night before last."
Search organized; sentinel confined.
From
Midshipmen Z. W. Nixon, John A. Wish, Alexander Eskridge, and William Steele,
USS CONSTITUTION, 6 Jul 1815:
All desire furloughs to make merchant
voyages to
From
Midshipman A. W. Lufborough, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Jul 1815:
Requests furlough to visit family.
From
Midshipman James H. Dobbins,
Having had a furlough approved before
receiving orders to CONSTITUTION, having made arrangements to go on a merchant
voyage, and understanding that CONSTITUTION "will undergo considerable
repairs," will keep the furlough and return the orders. [Orders were dated 21 Jun.]
From
Lieutenant George W. Rodgers,
Mason not yet apprehended. Cannot prove sentinel helped him, although it
seems likely. Will be taking FIREFLY to
sea shortly.
From
Midshipman Z. W. Nixon, USS CONSTITUTION, 31 Jul 1815:
Requests 1 year furlough. [Ordered to USS UNITED STATES.]
From
Midshipman Thomas H. Bouyer,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Ordered to USS WASHINGTON.]
From
Midshipman Daniel Goodwin,
Requests orders to
From
Lieutenant T. W. Magruder, USS UNITED STATES, 22 Aug 1815:
"For the last three months I have
been attached to the Constitution...;" recently transferred to UNITED
STATES. Needs his new commission to
settle seniority with "Lt. McCulloch."
From
Midshipman James K. Vallette, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Sep 1815:
Request transfer to USS FRANKLIN. [Transferred to USS WASHINGTON.]
From
Midshipman James W. Delany,
Received orders dated 8 Sep from Commodore
[Isaac]
From
Purser Alexander P. Darragh,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
Vol 33 (October 1 ‑ December 31, 1815)
From
Lieutenant Beekman V. Hoffman,
Lieutenant German "...is a young
Gentleman who has sailed with me in the Constitution and I know him to be an
excellent Officer & Seaman, and would be very happy to have him as my 1st
Lieut..." Lieutenant German lately
returned from the late brig SIREN.
[Hoffman commanding USS TOM BOWLINE.
German ordered to Sackett's Harbor.]
From
Midshipman Alexander Eskridge, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Dec 1815:
Requests a furlough for a merchant voyage.
Vol 34 (July 6, 1815 ‑ December 29,
1815)
NOTHING
Roll 16, Vol 34 [sic] (January 1 ‑ March 31, 1816)
From
Lieutenant William B. Shubrick,
Seeks support for the 10 month‑old
son, Edmund Templer Shubrick, of his deceased brother, John Templer Shubrick
[lost in USS EPERVIER]. Suggests pay and
emoluments of a midshipman, as was done for Captain Lawrence's son. [Not done.
Edmund T. Shubrick appointed Midshipman 22 Jun 1829.]
From
Midshipman Thomas B. Tilden, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Mar 1815 [sic: 1816]:
Requests orders to USS MACEDONIAN. [Annotated: Commodore Bainbridge will order
such officers on board
From
Purser A. Y. Humphreys,
Last August 17th received orders from
Commodore Hull to report to USS PROMETHEUS [from CONSTITUTION] as Acting
Purser. Today, received orders from
Commodore Bainbridge to report to Commodore Chauncey as Acting Chaplain in
Vol 35 (April 1 ‑ June 30, 1816)
From
Midshipman Lewis E. Simonds,
Was sentenced to 1 year suspension on
charges brought by Lieutenant G. W. Storer in INDEPENDENCE in court martial
held in CONSTITUTION on 15 Jun 1815.
Suspension ends today; requests orders.
[Ordered to USS PROMETHEUS on 31 Jul.]
Roll 17, Vol 36 (July 1 ‑ September 30, 1816)
NOTHING
Vol 37 (October 1 ‑ December 31, 1816)
NOTHING
Roll 18, Vol 38 (January 1 ‑ March 31, 1817)
From
Sailing Master Samuel C. Hixon,
"...I served in Constitution under
Captain Stewart..." "...after
our return from the first cruise in April 1814..."
Vol 39 (April 1 ‑ May 30, 1817)
From
Sailing Master Samuel Casper Hixon,
Requests orders to USS MACEDONIAN. Made "two last cruises in the
Constitution..." Needs employment
to support family. [Annotated: granted.]
Vol 40 (June 1 ‑ July 31, 1817)
NOTHING
Roll 19, Vol 41 (August 1 ‑ September 30, 1817)
From
Midshipman Archibald M. Stewart,
Has been on furlough in the merchant
service since Sep 1815. Not knowing he
was supposed to report himself semi‑annually, has returned to find his
name no longer listed. Wishes
reinstatement.
Vol 42 (October 1 ‑ December 31, 1817)
From
Midshipman Adam S. Kuhn, USS DESPATCH, 29 Dec 1817:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or HORNET,
which ships he understands will be the next to get sailing orders.
Roll 20, Vol 43 (January 1 ‑ March 31, 1818)
NOTHING
Vol 44 (April 1 ‑ May 29, 1818)
From
Boatswain James Wolf,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or
CONSTELLATION. [He didn't get
CONSTITUTION.]
From
Lieutenant H. B. Sawyer, USS INDEPENDENCE, 18 Apr 1818:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION if she is
going to sea. [No.]
Vol 45 (June 1 ‑ July 31, 1818)
From
Midshipman Thomas B. Tilden, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Jan 1816 [sic]:
Requests orders to USS WASHINGTON.
From
Lieutenant William H. Allen,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or
CONGRESS. [Not to CONSTITUTION.]
Roll 21, Vol 46 (August 1 ‑ September 30, 1818)
NOTHING
Vol 47 (October 1 ‑ December 31, 1818)
NOTHING
Roll 22, Vol 48 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1819)
NOTHING
Vol 49 (March 1 ‑ April 29, 1819)
NOTHING
Vol
50 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1819)
NOTHING
Roll 23, Vol 51 (July 1 ‑ September 30, 1819)
From
Boatswain James Wolf,
Has been in merchant service since leaving
CONSTITUTION "which it a little better than a year," and wishes
active service. [Not on ship's muster
rolls. Evidently a shipkeeper while she
was in ordinary.]
Vol 52 (October 1 ‑ December 31, 1819)
From
Lieutenant Nathaniel Lawrence
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or the
Boston Station. [Ordered to the
Station.]
From
Lieutenant William Berry,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
Vol 53 (January 1 ‑ March 30, 1820)
From
Lieutenant John T. Newton, USS HORNET, 20 Mar 1820:
Has learned that "Lieutenant
Parker" has been ordered to CONSTITUTION from the New York Navy Yard and
wishes to be his successor at the yard.
[This may have been Lieutenant Foxhall Alexander Parker, Sr. So ordered.]
Roll 24, Vol 54 (April 1 ‑ May 30, 1820)
From
Lieutenant Otho Stallings,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or any
other vessel fitting for sea. [Ordered
to CONSTELLATION.]
Vol 55 (June 1 ‑ August 30, 1820)
From
Purser Thomas Breese,
Returns orders issued erroneously on 14 Dec
1818 that attached him to CONSTITUTION on the misunderstanding that he was not on
active duty.
From
Lieutenant
Requests orders to "join my old
ship," CONSTITUTION.
From
Surgeon George S. Sproston,
Has received orders to CONSTITUTION in
From
Midshipman Timothy Gay,
Request orders to CONSTITUTION or any ship
going to sea.
From
Acting Midshipman Lewis Seeger,
Requests orders to
From Lieutenant L. E. Simonds, Boston, MA, 26 Jul 1820:
Requests
orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Roger C. Shaw, USS ALERT, 27 Jul 1820:
Requests transfer to CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Charles W. Minchin, USS ALERT, 27 Jul 1820:
Requests transfer to CONSTITUTION.
From
Acting Midshipman Lewis R. M. Morse,
Requests orders to
From
Midshipman Timothy Gay,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or any ship
going to sea. [Ordered to
From
Midshipman Samuel Gaillard,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman John Pope, USS OHIO, 24 Aug 1820:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Transferred to ENTERPRIZE.]
From Lieutenant L. E. Simonds, Boston, MA, 26 Aug 1820:
Repeats
request for orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman G. W. Bleeker, USS WASHINGTON, 28 Aug 1820:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
Roll 25, Vol 56 (September 2 ‑ October 31, 1820)
From
Midshipman George W. Bleeker, USS WASHINGTON, 7 Sep 1820:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman John Pope, USS OHIO, 15 Sep 1820:
Distressed to learn he has been ordered to
ENTERPRIZE rather than
From
Chaplain Addison Searle, 24 Sep 1820:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman George W. Bleeker, USS WASHINGTON, 23 Oct 1820:
Again requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant William Boerum,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
Vol 57 (November 1 ‑ December 31, 1820)
From
Midshipman Isaac H. Rand,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION instead of
From
Lieutenant James F. Curtis, USS INDEPENDENCE, 8 Nov 1820:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION instead of
ALLIGATOR.
From
Midshipman Henry John Auchmuty, USS INDEPENDENCE, 8 Nov 1820:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Captain R. D. Wainwright, USMC,
Urges Midshipman Auchmuty's 8 Nov 1820
request for orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant Thomas A. Conover, USS FRANKLIN, 10 Nov 1820:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [He got them in 1849.]
From
Lieutenant Frank Ellery,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [He got them in 1822.]
From
Captain John Orde Creighton,
Endorses Lieutenant Ellery's request of
this date.
From
Lieutenant James A. Perry,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Richard Barker,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant Joseph Cassin, Jr.,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Ordered to
From
Midshipman George W. Bleeker,
Yet again requests orders to
CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Lieutenant
William H. Cocke,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Thomas B. Worthington,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Lieutenant Frederick Varnum, USS INDEPENDENCE, 24 Nov 1820:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Eventually ordered to ALLIGATOR.]
From
Requests restoration to duty and orders to
CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant James F. Curtis,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Ordered to PORPOISE.]
From
Midshipman
Having failed the recent examination for
Lieutenant, requests orders to CONSTITUTION in order to improve himself.
From
Midshipman Jott S. Paine, USS INDEPENDENCE, 8 Dec 1820:
Having passed the recent examination for
Lieutenant, requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
[Done.]
From
Midshipman Edward S. Lewis, USS WASHINGTON, 4 Dec 1820:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Lieutenant William Boerum,
Again requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman William P. Piercy,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Ordered to SHARK.]
From
Surgeon's Mate George Terrill,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Ordered to PORPOISE.]
From
Midshipman John M. Sullivan,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
Vol 58 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1821)
From
Chaplain Addison Searle,
Requests leave until CONSTITUTION is
manned. [Granted.]
From
Midshipman Thomas M. Randolph,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Ordered to HORNET.]
From
Midshipman James Bradford,
Requests orders to active service. [Ordered to CONSTITUTION.]
From
Lieutenant Frederick P. Wolbert, Jr.,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Ordered to PORPOISE.]
From
Midshipman Richard A. Jones, Head of Sassafras, MD, 2 Feb 1821:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman T. H. Saul, USS WASHINGTON, 7 Feb 1821:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Acting Midshipman John W. Mooers, USS WASHINGTON, 8 Feb 1821:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done in 1824.]
From
Midshipman John Hamilton, USS CYANE, 10 FEB 1821:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman Francis B. Ellison, USS WASHINGTON, 10 Feb 1821:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Lieutenant Benjamin Cooper, USS CYANE, 10 Feb 1821:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done in 1828.]
From
Lieutenant Samuel L. Breese, USS HORNET, 17 Feb 1821:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Boatswain James Banks, USS FRANKLIN, 19 Feb 1821:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Entered service in the Continental Navy in
1779, about a year after arriving in the
From
Lieutenant Samuel L. Breese, USS HORNET, 21 Feb 1821:
Elaborates on his earlier request for
orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman John Marston, Jr.,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman Isaac H. Rand,
Repeats his request for orders to
CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Roll 26, Vol 59 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1821)
From
Midshipman Arthur Lewis, USS JOHN
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Surgeon Usher Parsons,
Asks not to be ordered to CONSTITUTION as
his "liver complaint has returned" and he fears a voyage to the
From
Midshipman Samuel F. Dupont,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman Lucius D. Heylin,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Lieutenant Ralph Voorhees, USS CYANE, 9 Mar 1821:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Got there in 1826.]
From
Gunner William Johnson, USS ALERT, 10 MAR 1821:
For the fourth time, requests orders to
CONSTITUTION or the Boston Station.
[Done.]
From
Lieutenant Isaac McKeever,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION as a
supernumerary, if in no other capacity.
[Done; he paid his own way to
From
Francis H. Ellison,
Requests that his son, Midshipman Francis
B. Ellison, be ordered to CONSTITUTION.
[Done.]
From
Midshipman Edmond M. Russell, USS INDEPENDENCE, 12 mAR 1821:
Again requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Surgeon's Mate T. V. Wiesenthal, USS ALLIGATOR, 13 Mar 1821:
Requests transfer to CONSTITUTION. [Apparently suffers from chronic
seasickness.]
From
Midshipman Archibald R. Bogardus, USS CYANE, 21 Mar 1821:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Surgeon John H. Gordon,
Requests revocation of orders to
CONSTITUTION as he is still recovering from a severe attack of inflammatory
rheumatism.
From
Lieutenant James P. Oellers,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Henry Bruce, USS INDEPENDENCE, 26 Mar 1821:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant Harrison H. Cocke,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Ship full.]
From
Surgeon Alexander A. Evans, Elkton, MD, 29 Mar 1821:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to report
for duty in CONSTITUTION. After 9 years
of arduous service and no shore duty, even when juniors were getting it (and
with the privilege of private practice), on the advice of Captain Hull and
Commodore Bainbridge secured a furlough and set about investigating the
establishment of a private practice.
Having been Surgeon in CONSTITUTION under both
From
Lieutenant James Oellers,
Again applies for orders to CONSTITUTION,
stating that Captain Jones has indicated he would be happy to have him. [Ship full.]
From
Midshipman A. J. D. Browne, USS INDEPENDENCE, 2 Apr 1821:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Thomas J. Browne, USS INDEPENDENCE, 2 Apr 1821:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Surgeon John H. Gordon,
No answer received on request of 22
Mar. Will proceed to
From
Lieutenant Charles H. Caldwell, USS INDEPENDENCE, 9 Apr 1821:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Ship full.]
From
Surgeon's Mate George S. Sproston,
Have received orders to CONSTITUTION today,
and will proceed as soon as funds received.
From
Surgeon John H. Gordon,
If no replacement has yet been ordered, is
now ready to accept orders to CONSTITUTION.
[Was replaced.]
Vol 60 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1821)
From
Sailing Master
Expresses his appreciation for the
Secretary's permission to test his "propellor" in CONSTITUTION. Notes that he was able to move the ship at 3
knots despite thecrew's unfamiliarity with the equipment and strong tides. Says such defects as were found are "at
fair way to remedy." The device is
still in the ship. Forwards testimonials
as to the results of the trial from Master Commandant Benjamin W. Booth;
Lieutenants W. Boerum, Samuel L. Breeze, D. Geisinger, J. R. Jarvis, U. P.
Levy, I. McKeever, Foxhall A. Parker, J. Percival, W. B. Schubrick, and George
Washington Storer; Sailing Masters James Ferguson and Robert Knox; Purser Thos
Breese; Midshhipmen H. j. Auchmuty, A. R. Bogardus, J. Bradford, John L.
Buchanan, Saml F. Du Pont [sic]. Francis B. Ellison, Samuel Garham, John
Hamilton, Edward S. Lewis, John H. Little, A. L. Paine, Wilson C. Purviance,
Thos H. Saul, and John M. Sullivan; and Master Builder Josiah Barker.
From
Lieutenant C. K. Stribling,
Per Commodore Jones' invitation, request
orders to CONSTITUTION.
Vol 61 (July 1 ‑31, 1821)
NOTHING
Roll 27, Vol 62 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1821)
NOTHING
Vol 63 (September 1 ‑ October 15, 1821)
NOTHING
Vol 64 (October 16 ‑ December 31, 1821)
NOTHING
Roll 28, Vol 65 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1822)
NOTHING
Vol 66 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1822)
From
Midshipman Simon W. Walsh, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Apr 1822:
Requests his Midshipman's warrant. [Annotated: "No certificate as such is
required."]
Vol 67 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1822)
From
Commodore Jacob Jones, USS CONSTITUTION, to Surgeon Samuel D. Heap, 30 Apr
1822:
Ordered by SecNav to take on board
CONSTITUTION the hospital stores at
From
Midshipman Wilson C. Purviance,
Reports his arrival in the
Roll 29, Vol 68 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1822)
NOTHING
Vol 69 (September 1 ‑ October 31, 1822)
From
Midshipman Thompson D. Shaw, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 Sep 1822:
Purser Breese has debitted his account for
$50, representing the travel advance allowed.
Since he never received a travel
allowance from
From Lieutenant Pardon M. Whipple, Marseilles, France, ?
Oct
1822:
Reports himself off leave, having reported
to CONSTITUTION until the Department's pleasure is known.
Vol 70 (November 1 ‑ December 31, 1822)
NOTHING
Roll 30, Vol 71 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1823)
NOTHING
Vol 72 (February 1 ‑ April 4, 1823)
NOTHING
Vol 73 (April 4 ‑ May 8, 1823)
From
Midshipman R. B. Bell,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Roll 31, Vol 74 (May 8 ‑ June 24, 1823)
NOTHING
Vol 75 (June 24 ‑ July 30, 1823)
From
Midshipman John H. Little,
Having been permitted to return to the
From
Midshipman Jott S. Paine,
"...Reason of Capt Jones' unfriendly
disposition towards me ‑‑ Because I reported to him some
circumstances in the conduct of the late Mid. Wilson C. Purviance, some of
which were, and all of which are susceptible of being, probed, and insisted on
a Court‑Martial or Court of Enquiry on the said Purviance.
"Reasons
for my leaving the Mediterranean Firstly, Because I was tried by a Court
Martial for reporting disgraceful conduct in Mr Purviance altho' it was proved
in the Court that he did steal.
"Secondly,
Because I was debarred a priviledge [sic], during my trial which had been
granted me by the Court, and contrary to the will of that Court, kept confined
during the trial and afterwards, in addition to the sentence of the Court, was
imprisoned on board the US Schooner Nonsuch, until my health had suffered so
much that Lieut Comdt Turner of that vessel on the recommendation of the
Surgeon, applied and obtained permission for me to visit the shore once
in Naples.
"Thirdly
‑‑ Because I was kept suspended from Duty, after the expiration of
the term mentioned in the sentence of the Court.
"Fourthly,
Because there was an acting Appointment of Sailing Master given to Mid. James
P. Wilson, while I was neglected, altho' in date of Warrant and having passed
the Examination of October 1820.
"Fifthly,
Because I was imprisoned on board the U. S. Ship Ontario, without cause, and
under the pretense that I had been the bearer of a challenge altho' it was not
the case, and altho' Mid. Jones (son to Capt Jones) challenged two persons
during the last winter, and no notice was taken of it notwithstanding it was
publicly known ‑‑
"Sixthly,
Because I was refused a copy of the Proceedings of the Court, which I wished to
publish, and was not furnished, even with a copy of the sentence.
"Lastly,
Because I wish, and feel myself capable of defending my character from any
reports which may have reached the Dept since I have served under Capt Jones ‑‑
"I only request that I may be
considered on the same footing as if no misunderstanding had taken place
between Capt. Jones and myself ‑‑ that I may receive orders for
some vessell [sic] fitting out, and that I may be allowed a copy of the
Proceedings and sentence of the Court ‑‑" [Ordered to the New York Station that same
day.]
Roll 32, Vol 76 (July 30 ‑ September 15, 1823)
NOTHING
Vol 77 (September 15 ‑ October 21, 1823)
From
Midshipman Samuel B. Cocke,
Reports his return from CONSTITUTION and
requests orders to the Norfolk Station.
[Done.]
Roll 33, Vol 78 (October 21 ‑ November 30, 1823)
NOTHING
Vol 79 (November 30 ‑ December 31, 1823)
From
Surgeon L. Osborne,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION for her
next cruise.
Roll 34, Vol 80 (January 2 ‑ February 14, 1824)
From
Lieutenant H. S. Newcomb,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION on the
assumption she will return to the
Vol 2 [sic: 81] (February 15 ‑ April 3,
1824)
From
Purser E. N. Cox,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Roll 35, Vol 82 (April 3 ‑ May 19, 1824)
From
Lieutenant E. A. F. Vallette,
Protests orders to
From
Lieutenant E. A. F. Vallette,
Forwards a letter he just received from
Commodore Macdonough which confirms Macdonough's intention clearly but also
states he has yet to make his desires known to the Secretary.
From
Lieutenant E. A. F. Vallette, 1 May 1824:
Expresses concern that he has not had a
response to his earlier letters.
[Annotated: it has not yet been determined when and how Commodore
Macdonough will go to sea; the Lieutenant must obey the order to join
From
Lieutenant John A. Wish,
Understands CONSTITUTION is returning from
the
Vol 4 [sic: 83] (May 20 ‑ June 18, 1824)
From
Midshipman James B. Glentworth,
Request a leave of absence and orders to
the Boston Station to await CONSTITUTION.
[Annotated: "Attend to this immediately."]
From
Midshipman John E. Prentiss,
Requests 3 or 4 months leave of absence to
recover his health, then orders to CONSTITUTION. [Annotates: "Granted 4 mos."]
From
Midshipman Henry J. Auchmuty, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 May 1824:
Requests orders to the Boston Station.
From
Lieutenant D. Geisinger, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 May 1824:
Requests orders to the Boston Station.
From
Lieutenant Samuel L. Breese, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 May 1824:
Requests 4‑6 months leave to visit
family in
From
Lieutenant P. M. Whipple, USS CONSTITUTION, ? May 1824:
Requests orders to
From
Sailing Master James Ferguson, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 May 1824:
Requests orders to Boston Station, where
his family is.
From
Lieutenant W. Boerum, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 May 1824:
Requests "a few months" leave.
From
George S. Sproston, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 May 1824:
Reports the transfer of all medical stores
to the hospital ashore and commends his assistant, Surgeon's Mate Thomas Boyd.
From
Surgeon's Mate T. J. Boyd, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 May 1824:
Requests 5 months leave of absence.
From
Midshipman Edward Hoban,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Lieutenant P. M. Whipple,
Requests orders and travel expenses to
From
Midshipman Richard D. Miller,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Lieutenant Thomas W. Freelon,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Chaplain Addison Searle, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 May 1824:
Requests a leave of absence. [Granted.]
From
Midshipman Richard H. Morris,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman Samuel Lockwood,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Surgeon L. Osborne,
Again requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman S. William Walsh, USS CONSTITUTION, 31 May 1824:
Requests orders to the Philadelphia Station
in order to attend the "
From
Midshipman Thompson D. Shaw,
Permitted, due to ill health, to proceed to
his home, he requests permission to remain there until well. [Granted.]
From
Thomas Brown,
If it is intended to recruit for CONSTITUTION
here, be advised that Seamen "may be difficult to procure."
From
Midshipman John L. Ball,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant Isaac Mayo,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Edward S. Lewis, USS OHIO, 4 Jun 1824:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman Amasa Paine, Jr., USS SHARK, 5 Jun 1824:
With both commanders' permission, requests
permission to exchange with Midshipman James K. Vallette in CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Lloyd B. Newell,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Lieutenant T. W. Wyman,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman John T. Jenkins, USS SHARK, 10 Jun 1824:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant William M. Armstrong,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Lieutenant M. P. Mix, USS OHIO, 13 Jun 1824:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant Harrison H. Cocke,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Charles N. Armstrong,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Chaplain John Cook,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipmen Richard D. Millen and Edward S. Lewis,
Request orders to CONSTITUTION. [Lewis done.]
From
Midshipman James K. Vallette, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Jun 1824:
Requests orders to the West Indies
Squadron. [Ordered to USS DECOY.]
From
Midshipman Philip A. Stockton,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Lieutenant G. J. Pendergast,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Roll 36, Vol 5 [sic: 84] (June 18 ‑ July 30,
1824)
From
Midshipman John Pope,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman Edward H. Hubbard,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant George Washington Storer,
Currently on leave from CONSTITUTION,
repeats request orders to the Portsmouth Station first made on 23 May.
From
Midshipman James B. Glentworth,
In view of no response to request for
orders to CONSTITUTION, requests orders to
From
Midshipman Francis B. Ellison, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Jun 1824:
Requests orders to attend the school on
board USS WASHINGTON. [Done.]
From
Surgeon's Mate Joseph B. Stillman, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Jun 1824:
Requests orders to the
From
Lieutenant William Taylor, USS CONGRESS, 23 Jun 1824:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION,
"having served on board her during all the late war." [No.]
From
Midshipman Andrew A. Harwood,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or
From
Midshipman George A. Magruder, USS WASHINGTON, 30 Jun 1824:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Henry W. Morris,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman J. E. Calhoun,
Awaits orders to CONSTITUTION. [Forthcoming.]
From
Purser Thomas Breese, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Jul 1824:
His accounts are ready for settlement. What is to be done with those for officers
still in ship?
From
Sailing Master W. B. Nicholson, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Jul 1824:
Requests reordering to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Augustus Barnhouse,
Requests orders to
From Midshipman Daniel L. Randolph,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or
From
Lieutenant Charles L. Williamson,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Amasa Paine, Jr., USS SHARK, 15 Jul 1824:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or
From
Midshipman Thomas L. Leib, USS WASHINGTON, 17 Jul 1824:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Charles Hay,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant William M. Armstrong,
Again requests orders to CONSTITUTION or
From
Midshipman James B. Lardner,
Requests orders to
From
Surgeon's Mate Edmund L. Dubarry,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman John H. Marshall, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Jul 1824:
Requests his warrant.
From
Midshipman John J. Glasson, USS GRAMPUS, 27 Jul 1824:
Requests orders to
Vol 6 [sic: 85] (July 30 ‑ September 24,
1824)
From
Midshipman James B. Glentworth,
Has received his orders to CONSTITUTION,
together with those for Midshipman Harwood who isn't present.
From
Midshipman Robert G. Robb, USS GRAMPUS, 1 Aug 1824:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or
From
Midshipman F. S. Gibbon,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman George A. Magruder, USS WASHINGTON, 11 Aug 1824:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Samuel Swartwout,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Commodore Thomas Macdonough,
Midshipman Augustus Barnhouse has been
suspended for flagrant breach of discipline in sending libelous notes
concerning Purser John B. Timberlake.
Further, his conduct toward me has been "indecorous."
From
Midshipman Daniel L. Randolph,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or
From
Midshipman Richard R. W. Mullin, USS ALERT, 3 Sep 1824:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Samuel Mercer,
Suffering from an eye ailment, and on the
advice of his doctor, requests orders as a supernumerary in CONSTITUTION where
the sea environment is hoped will promote a cure. [No.]
From
Lieutenant Benjamin Page, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Sep 1824:
Per orders, has reported to the ship. He is, however, ill with a disease "of a
delicate nature" and asks for a 6‑month furlough. [Done.]
From
Midshipman James H. Ward,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman John W. West,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or
From
Midshipman Charles E. Hawkins,
Requests orders for CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Edmund L. Dubarry, USS CONSTITUTION, 19 Sep 1824:
Cancels request for orders to leave the
ship. [No.]
From
Lieutenant Samuel L. Breese, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Sep 1824:
Wishes to remain in ship, as supernumerary
if necessary. [No.]
From
Midshipman Charles E. Hawkins,
Again applies for CONSTITUTION.
Roll 37, Vol 7 [sic: 86] (September 24 ‑ November
8, 1824)
From
Midshipman Charles E. Hawkins,
Again requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant Samuel L. Breese,
Again requests to remain in the ship as a
supernumerary. [No.]
From
Purser John B. Timberlake, USS CONSTITUTION, no date:
Reports that all officers joining the ship
have received two months advance pay in addition to whatever was due them. Wishes to know the Secretary's orders of they
seek more money prior to sailing.
From Midshipman John W. West,
Has gone to considerable expense in
preparing himself for a 3‑year cruise in CONSTITUTION on being told by
Captain Finch that he would get orders.
The orders have not yet appeared.
[None issued.]
From
Sailmaker Benjamin Burchsted,
Having been out of touch on furlough, am I
still attached to CONSTITUTION?
[Annotated affirmatively.]
From
Midshipman Samuel Swartwout,
CONSTITUTION "is on the eve of
sailing" and still no orders to her.
[Coming.]
From
Gunner John Lord, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Oct 1824:
Requests permission for his wife to
accompany him on the cruise.
From
Midshipman Charles M. Armstrong,
Am I not to go in CONSTITUTION? [Annotated: "Same as to
From
Midshipman John H. Marshall, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Oct 1824:
I refused to take the furlough offered the
ship's officers when we returned on the understanding I would go out in her
again. Is that not to be? [Granted.]
From
Chaplain John McCarty, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Oct 1824:
Per your orders of the 16th, I reported
aboard this morning. Because of my
wife's continued delicate health, and the welfare of our 2 children (1 only 3
months old) I again request orders ashore.
[Annotated: "I regret that it is now so late that it is impossible
to supply Constn. with any other Chn. before she sails. I had not seen your letter of 4 Aug...and did
not know of your request when the order was given. As it is, you had best go in the
From
Midshipman Grey Skipwith, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Oct 1824:
Requests his half pay.
From
Lieutenant Pardon M. Whipple, [Oct 1824]:
Finds
he is listed as owing the Department money.
The possible incident which led to such listing occurred in 1813 when he
was ordered by Captain Stewart of CONSTITUTION, through Mr. Ballard, to draw
$400 from Boston Navy Agent Amos Binney and deliver it to Midshipman Gilliam,
recruiting at
From
Sailmaker Benjamin B. Burchsted,
Your letter directing me to report to
Captain Macdonough was received on 23 Oct and I immediately reported in
writing. He responded with a letter I
received on 30 Oct that I should have reported in person and to do so
immediately. On arrival here, I found
the ship had sailed. I would be happy
for orders to
Vol 8 [sic: 87] (November 8 ‑ December
31, 1824)
From
Master Commandant Benjamin W. Booth,
Requests pay due one of his grade serving
as captain of a frigate in light of his duty in CONSTITUTION under Commodore
Jones. Says he deserves it even though
it was known that squadron commanders in frigates were not entitled to "flag
captains." [No.]
From
Lieutenant Foxhall A. Parker,
Reports receiving a letter from the 4th
Auditor refusing him any additional allowance for having acted as
CONSTITUTION's captain unless authorized by the Secretary.
"When Master Commandant Booth left the
Constitution in October 1821, I was ordered by Commodore Jones to act in his
place; removed from the Wardroom to the Cabin and performed the duties assigned
to me as Captain of the ship untill [sic] her return to this port in
May..."
From
Lieutenant H. S. Newcomb, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Nov 1824:
NONSUCH returned unexpectedly to the
Roll 38, Vol 1 [sic: 88] (January 1 ‑ February
27, 1825)
From
Surgeon S. D. Heap,
"...Com. McDonough [sic], anxious on
account of the leaky state of his ship [CONSTITUTION], to get into winter
quarters,
From
Midshipman Grey Skipwith,
Reports his return to the
Vol 2 [sic: 89] (February 27 ‑ April 3,
1825)
From
Midshipman Henry Kip Mower,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to join
CONSTITUTION.
Roll 39, Vol 3 [sic: 90] (April 3 ‑ May 25, 1825)
From
Midshipman Frederick Gibbon,
Reports being invalided home from
CONSTITUTION with a condition that "has nearly deprived me of the use of
my legs and feet."
From
Lieutenant Joseph Cross,
Reports being invalided home from
CONSTITUTION; requests leave.
Vol 4 [sic: 91] (May 25 ‑ July 4, 1825)
From
Midshipman John W. Mooers,
Reports his return to the
Roll 40, Vol 5 [sic: 92] (July 4 ‑ August 14,
1825)
From
Midshipman John W. Mooers,
Reports his arrival in the
From
Midshipman Samuel Swartwout,
Reports his arrival in the
From
Midshipman Samuel Swartwout,
Still awaiting orders.
Vol 6 [sic: 93] (August 15 ‑ September
16, 1825)
From
Chaplain John McCarty,
Reports his return to the
Roll 41, Vol 7 [sic: 94] (September 16 ‑ October
26, 1825)
NOTHING
Vol 8 [sic: 95] (October 27 ‑ November
27, 1825)
NOTHING
Vol 9 [sic: 96] (November 28 ‑ December
31, 1825)
From
Midshipman Joseph Arnold,
Reports being invalided home from
CONSTITUTION; requests 6 months leave of absence. [Granted.]
Roll 42, Vol 1 [sic: 97] (January 1 ‑ February 9,
1826)
NOTHING
Vol 2 [sic: 98] (February 9 ‑ March 12,
1826)
NOTHING
Vol
3 [sic: 99] (March 12 ‑ April 18, 1826)
NOTHING
Roll 43, Vol 4 [sic: 100] (April 18 ‑ May 26,
1826)
NOTHING
Vol 5 [sic: 101] (May 26 ‑ July 9, 1826)
NOTHING
Vol 6 [sic: 102] (July 10 ‑ August 8,
1826)
NOTHING
Roll 44, Vol 7 [sic: 103] (August 8 ‑ September
14, 1826)
From
Midshipman S. W. Downing,
Reports that he was granted leave from
CONSTITUTION to travel in
Vol 8 [sic: 104] (September 14 ‑
November 3, 1826
NOTHING
Roll 45, Vol 9 [sic: 105] (November 2 ‑ 28, 1826)
From
Midshipman Richard H. Morris,
Reports his return to the
From
Midshipman Richard H. Morris,
Repeats his previous letter.
Vol 10 [sic: 106] (November 28 ‑ December
31, 1826)
NOTHING
Roll 46, Vol 1 [sic: 107] (January 2 ‑ February
28, 1827)
NOTHING
Vol 1 [sic: 108] (January 1 ‑ May 18,
1827)
NOTHING
Roll 47, Vol 2 [sic: 109] (March 1‑ May 11, 1827)
NOTHING
Vol 2 [sic: 110] (June 1 ‑ 30, 1827)
NOTHING
Roll 48, Vol 3 [sic: 111] (July 1 ‑ 31, 1827)
NOTHING
Vol 3 [sic: 112] (May 6 ‑ December 29,
1827)
From
Surgeon James Cornick, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Aug 1827:
Seeks to explain a charge made against his
account by the 4th Auditor.
Roll 49, Vol 113 (August 1 ‑ September 30, 1827)
From
Midshipmen John H. Marshall, Charles C. Turner, C. A. Hansford, and Amasa
Paine, USS CONSTITUTION, 19 Sep 1827:
Orders requested to return to the
Roll 50, Vol 5 [sic: 114] (October 1 ‑ 31, 1827)
From
Midshipman Andrew A. Harwood,
Reports his return from CONSTITUTION to
take the examination for Lieutenant.
Vol 6 [sic: 115] (November 1 ‑ 30, 1827)
NOTHING
Vol 7 [sic: 116] (December 1 ‑ 31, 1827)
NOTHING
Roll 51, Vol 1 [sic: 117] (January 1 ‑ February
29, 1828)
From
Midshipman Andrew A. Harwood,
Reports he has passed the examination and
wishes to remind the Department of his service record as it might affect his
seniority as a Lieutenant.
From
Midshipman
Reports having passed the examination for
Lieutenant and wishes to remind the Department of his service record as it
might affect his seniority as a Lieutenant.
Vol 2 [sic: 118] (March 1 ‑31, 1828)
NOTHING
Vol 3 [sic: 119] (April 1 ‑ 30, 1828)
NOTHING
Roll 52, Vol 4 [sic: 120] (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1828)
NOTHING
Vol 5 [sic: 121] (July 1 ‑ 31, 1828)
From
Lieutenant Robert B. Randolph, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Jul 1828:
Has been acting Purser since John
Timberlake's death. Requests advice from
the Department has to how best to carry out his temporary duties, and also
money with which to pay off the crew.
Recommends that he and Purser's Clerk Thomas Newman be ordered to
From
Midshipman James N. Forsyth, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Jul 1828:
Reports his return from the
From
Lieutenant John A. Carr, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 Jul 1828:
Reports his return as a passenger in
CONSTITUTION. Requests leave.
From
Lieutenant T. J. Manning,
Reports his return in CONSTITUTION as
ordered by Commodore William Crane of the Mediterranean Squadron.
From
Surgeon's Mate John F. Brooke, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Jul 1828:
Reports his return in CONSTITUTION and
requests orders to the Boston Navy Yard.
From
Midshipman H. H. Rhodes,
Having returned from the
From
Midshipman Samuel Lockwood,
Reports his return from the
From
Midshipman Thomas Sands,
States he understood he was ordered home in
CONSTITUTION to take the Lieutenant' examination.
From
Midshipman Daniel Randolph,
Reports his return in CONSTITUTION and
requests a furlough to prepare for the Lieutenant's examination.
From
Surgeons Hyde Ray and James Cornick, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Jul 1828:
"We are of opinion, that some other
plan, should be devised to supply our vessels of war in the
"We are, therefore, of the opinion
that the service would be greatly benefited if these inconveniences were
removed, and that this could be best done by having all our medicines and
hospital stores sent from the United States, with the other supplies for the
squadron; and by appointing some person whose business it should be to select
and have them properly disposed for transportation by sea: for the great
variety of vegetable preparations, used in medicine, are very liable to injury
from negligence in this respect.
"We are also confident that in order
to take proper care of these things after their arrival in the Mediterranean,
to save the Government many thousand dollars, and the lives of many seamen
annually, a surgeon should be permanently established at
From Lieutenant R. B. Randolph, Boston, MA, 28 Jul 1828:
Again
seeks guidance on how to close out the accounts of the late Purser John B.
Timberlake.
Roll 53, Vol 6 [sic: 122] (August 1 ‑ September
30, 1828)
From Lieutenant R. B. Randolph, Boston, MA, 6 Aug 1828:
Reports that Ordinary Seaman Joseph Arnett, a "worthless Scoundrel" and deserter from CONSTITUTION, had appeared with his landlord to collect his pay and argued that the amount said due him was too small. He later failed to return for an explanatory meeting. What is to be done?
Vol 7 [sic: 123] (October 1 ‑ 31, 1828)
NOTHING
Roll 54, Vol 8 [sic: 124] (November 1 ‑ 30, 1828)
NOTHING
Vol 9 [sic: 125] (December 1 ‑ 31, 1828)
NOTHING
Roll 55, Vol 126 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1829)
NOTHING
Vol 127 (March 1 ‑ April 29, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 56, Vol 128 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1829)
NOTHING
Vol 4 [sic] (June 1 ‑ 30, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 57 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 58 (September 1 ‑ October 31, 1829)
NOTHING
Roll 59, Vol 7 [sic] (November 1 ‑ 30, 1829)
NOTHING
Vol 8 [sic] (December 1 ‑ 31, 1829)
From
Surgeon John A. Kearney,
In requesting orders, provides a
recapitulation of his service, including "...1814... In August of that
year was appointed Surgeon of the U. S. Frigate Constitution Commo Stewart ‑‑
1815 February 20th was Engaged in action with H.B.M. Ships Cyane and
Roll 60, Vol 1 [sic] (January 1 ‑ 30, 1830)
NOTHING
Vol
2 [sic] (February 1 ‑ 28, 1830)
From
Sailing Master Charles F. Waldo,
In
making a request to be retained in service at a time when the number of Sailing
Masters is being reduced, includes a recapitulation of his service, including: "...That during the last War, in the Month of October 1812, he joined the
Naval Service of the United States, having previously commanded a Vessel in the
Merchant Service for five years‑‑
That he was in the capacity of Master's Mate on board the Frigate
Constitution, under Commodore Bainbridge in the action and capture of the
British Frigate Java ‑ in which action he had the misfortune to lose his
left leg‑ That in March 1813 he
was warranted as a Sailing Master..."
Notes he now 46 years old, with a wife and 6 children.
Roll 61 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 62, Vol 4 [sic] (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1830)
NOTHING
Vol 5 [sic] (July 1 ‑ 31, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 63, Vol 6 [sic] (August 1 ‑ 31, 1830)
NOTHING
Vol 7 [sic] (September 1 ‑ 30, 1830)
NOTHING
Roll 64 [sic] (October 1 ‑ 31, 1830)
From
Passed Midshipman Henry H. Bell, Old Point Comfort, VA, 18 Oct 1830:
Requests orders as Sailing Master in
CONSTITUTION or any other ship bound to the Pacific or
Unnumbered [sic] (November 1 ‑ December 31,
1830)
NOTHING
Roll 65 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 66 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1831)
From
Lieutenant J. Collings Long,
Notes he has been in the Navy 19
Years, 14 of them as a lieutenant.
Sailed with Bainbridge and Stewart during the war, then in the West
Indies and with
Roll 67, Vol 1 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1831)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 68 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 69, Vol 1 (July 1 ‑ 30, 1831)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1831)
From
Lieutenant Stephan Champlin,
In recapitulating his career, notes
his appointment as Sailing Master in Feb 1813 at
Roll 70, Vol 1 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1831)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 71, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ December 1, 1831)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1831)
NOTHING
Roll 72, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1832)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 14, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 73, Vol 1 (February 14 ‑ 29, 1832)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 74, Vol 1 (April 1 ‑ 16, 1832)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (April 17 ‑ 30, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 75 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 76, Vol 1 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1832)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 77 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1832)
NOTHING
Roil 78 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 79, Vol 1 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1832)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 80 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1832)
NOTHING
Roll 81, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 30, 1833)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 82 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1833)
From
Purser Joseph W. Terry,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: "...noted and
filed..."]
Roll 83
(April 1 ‑ 30, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 84
(May 1 ‑ 31, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 85 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 86, Vol 1 (July 1 ‑ 18, 1833)
NOTHING
Vol 2
(July 18 ‑ 31, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 87, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 15, 1833)
NOTHING
Vol 2
(August 15 ‑ 31, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 88 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 89 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 90, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1833)
NOTHING
Vol 2
(December 1 ‑ 31, 1833)
NOTHING
Roll 91, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 13, 1834)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (February 13 ‑ 28, 1834)
From
Purser John N. Hambleton,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION, or
the next ship of that class to be fitted out.
Roll 92, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1834)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (May 1 ‑ 16, 1834)
From
Midshipman Stephen Dod,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [He didn't get them.]
From
Purser Henry Etting,
Requests orders to
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Heywood,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION as 2nd
Master. [He didn't get them.]
From
Assistant Surgeon John A. Lockwood,
Requests
orders to CONSTITUTION. [He didn't get
them.]
From
Passed Midshipman
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [He didn't get them.]
Roll 93, Vol 1 (May 16 ‑ 31, 1834)
From
Midshipman
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION,
which, he understands, is to be sent to the
Vol 2 (June 1 ‑ 14, 1834)
From
Lieutenant Harrison M. Carter,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION
"or any other frigate, as executive officer." [He didn't get CONSTITUTION.]
From
Passed Midshipman Joseph W. Revere,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [He got them.]
Vol 3 (June 14 ‑ 30, 1834)
From
Purser John de Bree,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [He didn't get them.]
From
Carpenter William L. Shuttleworth, USS HUDSON, 22 Jun 1834:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [He didn't get them.]
From
Captain [?] A. Ludlow,
Requests command of CONSTITUTION. [Not found in Register.]
From
Passed Midshipman Henry Walke,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [He didn't get them.]
Roll 94 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
From
Purser John de Bree,
Is "much disappointed" upon
notification that he will not receive orders to CONSTITUTION. Believes it only just that he receive such
orders and repeats his request. [No.]
From
Purser John N. Hambleton,
Repeats his request for orders to
From
Carpenter William L. Shuttleworth, USS HUDSON, 18 Jul 1834:
Changes his request from CONSTITUTION
to
From
Midshipman William P. Bradburn, USS ST LOUIS, 21 Jul 1834:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant John Colhoun,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Midshipman James A. Doyle, USS ST LOUIS, 25 Jul 1834:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Charles F. McIntosh,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Roll 95 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
From
Midshipman Benjamin F. Anderson,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Gunner Thomas Ripley,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman Henry Darcantel,
Requests
orders to CONSTITUTION as Sailing Master.
[No.]
From
Midshipman
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Roll 96, Vol 1 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1834)
From
Midshipman M. Mason,
Requests orders to CONSTITUION. [No.]
From
Midshipman J. N. Maffitt,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [He got them.]
From
Lieutenant W. C. Nicholson,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Carpenter Richard Thomas,
Notes he is now the senior Carpenter
in the Navy. In summing up his service,
notes "...in 1821 I again went to that sea [the Mediterranean] in the
Frigate Constitution, Comr. Jones, & with him, & Commodores McDonough
[sic], & Patterson in the same ship, & remained in that sea until 1828..." Requests a renewal of a leave of absence.
Vol 2 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Heywood,
Confirms his request for orders to
CONSTITUTION as 2nd Master. [To no
avail.]
From
Carpenter John A. Dickason,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Passed Midshipman John T. Williams,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Frederick Oakes, Jr.,
Requests
orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Lieutenant W. Smith,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Not until 1839.]
From
Purser John N. Hambleton,
Complains that the appointment of
Purser Etting to CONSTITUTION was unfair in that Hambleton is his senior and
"the oldest purser in the Navy who has not had a frigate..." Is concerned that there is some mark on his
record of which he is unaware.
[Annotated to the effect he will receive such orders "at the proper
time."]
From
Lieutenant A. G. Slaughter, USS JAVA, 23 Oct 1834:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman William S. Ringgold,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Passed Midshipman James T. McDonough,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman Sylvanus Godon,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Roll 97, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1834)
From
Passed Midshipman A. Ludlow Case,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION
"or the first Ship going to Sea."
[No.]
From
Passed Midshipman F. W. Walbach,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman R. Perry,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Assistant Surgeon J. W. Rummer,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Purser Henry Etting,
Requests reassurance that he will
receive orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Midshipman Henry Darcantel,
Inquires about his request for orders
to CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman P. W. Humphreys,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1834)
From
Midshipman George T. Sinclair, USS JAVA, 4 Dec 1834:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Lieutenant Frank B. Ellison,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No, not this time.]
From
Gunner Thomas Ryby,
Inquires about his previous request
for orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Assistant Surgeon J. W. Rummer,
Inquires about his previous request
for orders to CONSTITUITION.
From
Passed Midshipman James Alden,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Not until 1844.]
From
Lieutenant W. Nicholson,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No, not this time.]
From
Passed Midshipman William Lewis Herndon,
Requested orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Roll 98, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1835)
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Steedman,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION
"or any other Vessel going to the
From
Lieutenant J. M. Watson,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Not until 1837.]
From
Passsed Midshipman A. A. Holcomb,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman Thomas W. Brent,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Charles E. Fleming,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Midshipman William Edwin Newton,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1835)
From
William Ronckendorff,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Gunner Thomas Ryby,
Repeats his request for orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant William Green,
Requests orders "to either of the
Frigates fitting out for sea service."
[Not CONSTITUTION.]
From
Purser John N. Hambleton,
Reiterates his "oldest
purser" thesis in requesting orders.
From
Lieutenant Charles C. Turner,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Not this time.]
From
Midshipman James A. Doyle, USS JAVA, 6 Feb 1835:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION, with
permission to return in USS DELAWARE.
[Annotated: "It is not certain the Constitution will proceed to the
Med."]
From
Passed Midshipman Charles F. M. Spotswood, Salines, [?], 15 Feb 1835:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant John B. Montgomery,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION dated 14 Feb. As he had no
prior notice, and as his wife is sick abed, requests the longest possible delay
in reporting. [Annotated to the effect
that he can delay as long as Commodore Elliott will allow.]
From
Lieutenant F. A. Neville,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Assistant Surgeon Isaac Brinckerhoff,
Acknowledges orders to CONSTITUTION
dated 14 Feb.
From
Sailing Master James Ferguson,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION dated 14 Feb.
From
Boatswain John McNelly,
Reports that Commodore Elliott has
told him to hold himself in readiness for orders to CONSTITUTION. Requests authority to make a $20/mo.
allowance for his family. He would
prefer to stay home, as his father is ill and debts have amassed. [Annotated that a Boatswain already has been
ordered, leaving a vacant billet at the Boston Navy Yard.]
From Midshipman Oliver Perry Baldwin,
Understands CONSTITUTION is to visit
From
Purser Henry Etting,
"Gratefully" acknowledges
receipt of orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Cullen Barton, USS SEA GULL, 19 Feb 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Francis S. Haggerty,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION dated 17 Feb.
From
Carpenter John Dickason,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION dated 14 Feb 1835.
From
Lieutenant W. C. Nicholson,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION. Requests leave until 10
Mar due to death in the family.
[Annotated to the effect that the orders were changed to have him report
while the ship is at
From
Boatswain W. Hart,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION dated 14 Feb. Reports he is
still lame, the product of recovering from an accident incurred while heaving
out USS ERIE in which his right leg was broken.
Cannot climb rigging. Suggests he
be left in the Yard. [Orders revoked.]
From
Passed Midshipman Percival Drayton,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Chaplain James Everett,
Has
reported for duty in CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Frederick Oakes, Jr.,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Steedman,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant Edward C. Rutledge,
Acknowledges receipt of orders
"to
From
Surgeon Thomas J. Boyd,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION. The unexpectedness of the
orders and their immediacy has found him without proper housing for his wife,
who is at a late stage of pregnancy.
Wishes to delay reporting until the ship is in
From
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Purser Henry Etting,
Reports his relief at the Yard is
urgently needed in order to insure a proper turnover of accounts, etc. [Repeats his concern in a second ltr the next
day.]
From
Passed Midshipman James P. McKinstry,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Not until 1848.]
From
Midshipman Edward C. Anderson,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Passed Midshipman John M. Berrien,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION as 2nd Master dated 23 Feb.
From
Boatswain Robert Whittaker,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
Roll 99, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1835)
From
Midshipman Stephen Decatur
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Edward C. Anderson,
Reports receiving his orders this date
and will proceed "by the first opportunity to N.Y."
From
Assistant Surgeon Robert Woodworth,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION and will "comply immediately."
From
Passed Midshipman Robert Emmett Hooe,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Francis P. Woban,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Midshipman John F. Mercer,
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Midshipman
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Edward C. Anderson,
Reports he arrived at
From
Passed Midshipman James P. McKinstry,
Renews his request for orders to
CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1835)
NOTHING
Roll 100, Vol 1 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1835)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1835)
From
Midshipman Oliver Perry Baldwin,
Again requests orders to
CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Charles Hunter,
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Edward C. Anderson,
Requests his orders to CONSTITUTION
"be renewed."
From
Midshipman Frederick Oakes, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Jun 1835:
Requests leave of absence for health
reasons. [Annotated to the effect that
it is granted and that he is to return to the ship when well.]
From
Lieutenant John S. Nicholas,
Reports that CONSTITUTION has arrived
and "is now anchored in the
From
Boatswain Robert Whittaker, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Jun 1835:
Reports a problem with his pay and requests
resolution.
From
Passed Midshipman William Radford,
Had been put ashore at
From
Midshipman Oliver Perry Baldwin,
Again requests orders to
CONSTITUTION. [Ordered to a receiving ship
"at present."]
From
Surgeon Thomas J. Boyd, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Jun 1835:
Requests a month's leave of
absence. [Granted.]
From
Lieutenant F. Ellery, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Jun 1835:
Requests detachment for reasons
"of a private nature."
[Annotated: "Detach him."]
From
Midshipman Benjamin Shattuck, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Jun 1835:
Requests 3 months leave. [Annotated: "Detach him." Done,
with 3 months leave.]
From
Midshipman James B. Lewis, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Jun 1835:
Requests 3 months leave. [Detached with 3 months leave.]
From
Lieutenant G. F. Pearson, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Jun 1835:
Requests 1 month's leave. [Granted, with orders to return to the ship.]
From
Sailing Master James Ferguson, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Jun 1835:
After 23 years of service (according
to him), he writes: "...A Master in the Navy in active service in a sea
going ship, calld [sic] to the daily performance of as important duties,
exposed always to the same hardships, and privations, and subject to the same expences
[sic] as the other sea officers with whom I mess and associate on board ship, I
find myself not only cut off from all the hopes of promotion which are held out
to them, but reduced to a level in point of pecuniary compensation, which
places my means of support though the necessary claims on these means are
precisely and unavoidably the same, in the
extraordinary at least, if not odious relation of 2 to 3 compared with
them...
"...But it is not the smallness
of the pay, much, very much as it affects me, that forms the principle [sic]
ground of my complaint. it [sic] is the
humiliating relation in which I am made to stand to almost all other classes of
officers on board ship. it [sic] is the
sense of degradation which is daily and hourly forced on me by the relation
particularly humiliating in which I am made to stand to officers whose duties
are not more important, whose efficiency in the discharge of them, I may
venture to say is not greater, and who came into the Service years after me. the [sic] close association in which I am
daily & hourly thrown with such officers cannot fail to make the difference
of our conditions constantly presest [?] to my mind, I cannot when feated at
the mess table fail to feel all the bitterness of of the reflection that these
young men though these expenses are exactly the same as mine, secure annually
500 dollars more pay, though their duties are not more important or more
faithfully executed they alone secure the natural rewards. Pardon me if I say, now that no hope remains
of any amelioration of this dreadfull [sic] condition from the Legislature that
no man of spirit and intelligence can sustain the constant view of such odious
and mortifying dispareties [sic] without feeling that he is the subject of
studied & deliberate insult, and that with such feelings constantly
pursuing him, it must naturally be expected that whatever may be his powers and
attainments they cannot fail to perish under its banefull [sic] influence.
"I trust therefore now that the
proximity of hostilities with France are removed, and with it the chances of
advancement which might have grown out of it, for it is clear that for me no
other chances but such exist. you [sic]
will in consideration of my age, & long service spare me the the [sic]
bitter mortification to which I am exposed on board ship, and with equal
consideration for the pecuniary embarassment to which the late and violent
changes 1) by removal from the Navy yard at Philadelphia & 2d from the
order for sea service, have subjected me.
appoint [sic] me to some shore duties, if possible in the neighborhood
of Philadelphia, a request which I have made the subject of a public letter
transmitted through the commander of this this ship..." [Annotated that he will be detached if he
wishes, but there is no shore position open to him near Philadelphia.]
From
Midshipman Francis P. Hoban, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Jun 1835:
Requests 3 months leave of
absence. [Granted; detached.]
From
Midshipman William E. Newton, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Jun 1835:
Requests 2 months leave. [Not granted as he has insufficient sea time
in grade.]
From
Lieutenant Edward Rutledge, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Jun 1835:
For health reasons, requests
detachment on leave of absence. [Done.]
From
Midshipman Edward C. Anderson, New York, NY, 26 Jun 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Midshipman John T. Williams, Gosport Navy Yard, 26 Jun 1835:
Requests permission to travel as
passenger on CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Charles Hunter, White Sulphur Springs, VA, 27 Jun 1835:
Reports his change of residence and
says if orders to CONSTITUTION have been issued for him they will be forwarded.
From
Midshipman William Ross Postell, USS HUDSON, 27 Jun 1835:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Midshipman Henry Darcantel, Philadelphia, PA, 29 Jun 1835:
Again requests orders to
CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: "...if a
vacancy."]
From
Passed Midshipman Raphael Semmes, Jr., Cincinnati, OH, 29 Jun 1835:
Should either Master in CONSTITUTION
wishes relief, he is available.
[Annotated to the effect that he can have orders to the ship, but not
for that billet.]
From
Passed Midshipman John F. Mercer, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Jun 1835:
Requests detachment from ship and
leave of absence. [Annotated:
"Detach him."]
From
Midshipman R. Lloyd Tilghman, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Jun 1835:
Requests orders to the Naval School at
Gosport, VA. [So ordered.]
From
Lieutenant F. Ellery, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Jun 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders
detaching him.
From
Passed Midshipman H. S. Stellwagen, Philadelphia Navy Yard, 29 Jun 1835;
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: "Leave and order
another."]
From
Chaplain James Everett, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Jun 1835:
Commodore Elliott has approved a 1week
leave, but he wants a month. [Approved.]
From
Sailing Master James Ferguson, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Jun 1835:
Again requests orders to duty in the
vicinity of Philadelphia. [Annotated
that action was taken "yesterday."]
Roll 101 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1835)
From
Midshipman Francis P. Hoban, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Jul 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of leave of
absence with detachment from the ship.
From
Passed Midshipman John T. Williams, Gosport Navy Yard, 1 Jul 1835:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Sailing Master James Ferguson, USS CONSTITUTION, 2 Jul 1835:
"...under the alternatives it
offers, it would not be advisable that I should leave the ship..." Requests a month's leave to attend to
personal affairs, with Commodore Elliott's concurrence. [Granted.]
From
Passed Midshipman James P. McKinstry, Detroit, MI, 2 Jul 1835:
Request orders to CONSTITUTION. Will pay his own travel expenses. [Ordered to USS EXPERIMENT.]
From
Midshipman Henry Skipwith, Washington, DC, 2 Jul 1835:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Ordered to USS SHARK.]
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Heywood, New York, NY, 2 Jul 1835:
Understands that Sailing Master
Ferguson is detached and requests orders to CONSTITUTION as 1st Master. [Annotated: "Inform him that Sailing Master
Ferguson is still attached..."]
From Passed Midshipman W. S. Ringgold, Georgetown, DC, 2 Jul 1835
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or to
the Mediterranean Squadron. [Yes.]
From
Passed Midshipman J. W. Revere, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Jul 1835:
Request a month's leave for medical
reasons. [Granted.]
From
Passed Midshipman James F. Duncan, Norfolk, VA, 4 Jul 1835:
Reports that Commodore Elliott had
granted him a week's leave due to "extreme ill health" in his family,
with permission to request its extension.
Makes that request now. [Done.]
From
Purser Henry Etting, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Jul 1835:
"The letter enclosed marked A, I
received yesterday from Comr Jesse D. Elliott, whilst I was engaged in paying
to the Crew of this Ship, grog money, due to the 30th June ultimo, after
accomplishing that duty, I made out a requisition for some monthly returns
which, when approved, I immediately took on shore, procured the returns, &
returned to the ship for the purpose of executing his order, on Commencing
which, I perceived that the printed returns furnished would not answer the
object intended, and I then addressed a note to Comr. Elliott (a Copy of which
is also enclosed) he was not on board however at a late hour of the night to
receive it, and before 9 Oclock this morning, he sent Lieut. Montgomery to me,
to say, that I had not obeyed his order respecting the returns and to Consider
myself Suspended from duty; I mentioned the reason to Mr. Montgomery why the
order was not yet executed, and requested that he would hand to Comr
Elliott the letter I had addressed to
him on the Subject, and to shew [sic] him also the inaccuracies of the printed
returns to which I referred.
"The foregoing statement is
merely to give the Department a better idea that it had before of the
disposition of Comr Elliott towards me, & will shew the Situation in which
I have been placed, being on board ship under his Command.‑
"That alone has prevented my
applying to the Department (since the arrival of the Constitution) to be detached
from her, was the hope & belief, I, with many others have had, that the
present Commander would not be Continued in her, if however this impression be
incorrect, I most respectfully beg that you will Consider this my application
to be relieved from her, whilst I may add, that with any other Commander I
should be pleased to remain attached to the Constitution." [Annotated: "Letter A not attached nor
the copy of the note to Com. E. Detach
him and grant leave of absence for one Month."]
From
Passed Midshipman P. W. Hunter, Brooklyn Navy Yard, 5 Jul 1835:
Knowing that "several officers
have been detached," requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Philip Cortlandt Van Wyck, Mount Pleasant, NJ, 6 Jul 1835:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Charles E. Fleming, New York, NY, 6 Jul 1835:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Purser Thomas Breese, Newport, RI, 6 Jul 1835:
Requests orders to USS NORTH CAROLINA
and provides a summary of his service to date, which includes:
CONSTITUTION (in ordinary) 14 Dec 1818‑31
Mar 1821
CONSTITUTION (in commission) 1 Apr
1821‑31 May 1824
From
Lieutenant Levin Mynn Powell, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Jul 1835:
Forwards copies of the preamble and
resolutions adopted by a meeting of the ship's officers relating to the
establishment of "a Naval School for the instruction of the junior
officers of the Navy" and urging the Secretary's aid and cooperation in
bringing it to reality. He notes that
only one of the ship's officers failed to support the recommendation.
From
Passed Midshipman John F. Borden, Cincinnati, OH, 7 Jul 1835:
"...should a change of officers
take place on board the Constitution...", requests orders to her. [No.]
From
Lieutenant John Cochran, Philadelphia, PA, 10 Jul 1835:
"Having understood that some of
the Lieutenants of the U. S. Frigate Constitution are desirous of being
detached...", requests orders to her.
[No.]
From
Midshipman R. N. Lowndes, New York, NY, 10 Jul 1835:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Purser Henry Etting, USS CONSTITUTION, 11 Jul 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of information
that he will be detached, and requests to know as early as possible who his
replacement is so that he can arrange the transfer of "the private Stores
purchased [by me] for the Ship; I have had the misfortune to sail with an
officer who took away every means & occasion to deprive me of the
advantages which under other Circumstances I should have enjoyed..."
From
Lieutenant Francis B. Ellison, Baltimore, MD, 11 Jul 1835:
"I am informed that some changes
will probably be made in the Officers of the Frigate Constitution...",
requests orders to her. [No.]
From
Purser Henry Etting, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Jul 1835:
"I will thank you to inform me
whether the Commander of a Ship is authorized to order or direct a disbursing
officer to advance money or pursers Stores to men who are in debt? &
if so, to whom overpayments (arising from this cause) to men who afterward
desert from the Service will be charged by the Department?"
From
Purser John N. Hambleton, St, Michael's, MD, 12 Jul 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Purser McLean Buchanan, Philadelphia Navy Yard, 14 Jul 1835:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or
CONSTELLATION. [Not to CONSTITUTION at
this time.]
From
Passed Midshipman Daniel F. Dulany, Fairfax, VA, n. d.:
"Earnestly" requests orders
to CONSTITUTION. [In 1837.]
From
Passed Midshipman P. W. Hunter, Brooklyn, NY, 15 Jul 1835:
Requests a response to his for orders
to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant W. Nicholson, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Jul 1835:
Requests to be detached and placed on
leave of absence. [Done.]
From
Acting Surgeon Isaac Brinckerhoff, USS CONSTITUTION, to Captain Jesse D.
Elliott, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Jul 1835:
Reports four men unfit for duty:
Musician Samuel Weatherby ‑
erysipelus and swollen legs
Seaman John Hudson ‑ badly mended
broken ribs
Carpenter's Mate John Jacobs ‑ wrist
deformed by dislocation
Seaman John Vincent ‑ imbecility
From
Passed Midshipman Edward Middleton, New York, NY, 18 Jul 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Heywood, New York, NY, 20 Jul 1835:
Requests orders as 2nd Master in
CONSTITUTION in place of Mr. Berien, who has told him he intends not to sail
with the ship. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman William T. Muse, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Jul 1835:
Requests a one month leave of absence.
From
Passed Midshipman James F. Duncan, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Jul 1835:
Regretfully requests detachment from
CONSTITUTION due to the extremely delicate health of his family. [Done.]
From
Professor of Mathematics Edward Ward, New York, NY, 21 Jul 1835:
In 16 years of teaching mathematics
and nautical science to Midshipman, he has frequently had the opportunity of
examining the skills of those hired as Schoolmasters on Navy ships, and not
once has he found one he considered qualified.
Until he received quite recently a
copy of the resolutions of CONSTITUTION's officers on the subject, he had never
gotten around to making any observations to the Department, but now he is
inspired to do so. After delineating his
view of the problem and what ought to be required of schoolmaster candidates,
he strongly endorses the concept of a Naval School.
From
Midshipman F. A. Bacon, Centerbury, CT, 21 Jul 1835:
Requests orders to the Mediterranean
or West Indies. [Ordered to CONSTITUTION
for later transfer to USS SHARK.]
From
Carpenter Francis Sagee, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Jul 1835:
Belatedly acknowledges receipt of
orders to the ship.
From
Midshipman Charles E. Fleming, New York, NY, 22 Jul 1835:
Acknowledges orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant J. M. Watson, Washington, DC, 22 Jul 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Assistant Surgeon Isaac Brinckerhoff, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Jul 1835:
Requests detachment from the
ship. [Done.]
From
Acting 2nd Master John M. Berrien, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Jul 1835:
Requests to be detached from the
ship. [Done.]
From
Surgeon Thomas J. Boyd, Washington, DC, 24 Jul 1835:
Requests a further extension of his
leave from CONSTITUTION. [Granted until
14 Aug.]
From
Passed Midshipman James L. Henderson, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Jul 1835:
Requests
to be detached from the ship. [Done.]
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Crillon Barton, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Jul 1835:
Requests a 3 month leave of
absence. [Commodore Elliott in his
endorsement, said he believed the motivation behind the request was a reprimand
Barton had received from the 1st Lieutenant, and he recommended against the
leave. SecNav concurred.]
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Hunter, New York, NY, 26 Jul 1835:
Reporting that he has heard Passed
Midshipman Henderson is leaving CONSTITUTION, he requests orders to her. [Done.]
From
Lieutenant John Colhoun, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Jul 1835:
Reports having reported for duty this
date.
From
Midshipman James O'Shaughnessy, New York, NY, 27 Jul 1835:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant John B. Montgomery, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Jul 1835:
Requests to be detached from
CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Sailing Master James Ferguson, Philadelphia, PA, 29 Jul 1835:
Requests detachment from
CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Lieutenant John A. Davis, Washington, DC, 29 Jul 1835:
Requests permission to take passage in
CONSTITUTION in order to join USS JOHN ADAMS.
[Ordered to ship.]
From
Midshipman Edward C. Anderson, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Jul 1835:
Requests a 1 month leave due to his
father's health. [Annotated that he may
have the leave and rejoin the ship or he may be detached.]
From
Assistant Surgeon Victor L. Godon, Philadelphia, PA, 30 Jul 1835:
Acknowledges
cancellation of his orders to CONSTELLATION and receipt of new ones to
CONSTITUTION.
Roll 102, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1835)
From
Sailing Master F. W. Moores, USS HUDSON, 1 Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION. Reports his health makes
him unfit for sea service, caused by having been struck in the groin by a
capstan bar. [Order revoked.]
From
Lieutenant John L. Ball, Washington, DC, 1 Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Midshipman Henry Darcantel, Philadelphia, PA, 1 Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman John Rutledge, Jr., Charleston, SC, 1 Aug 1835:
With the understanding that Captain Shubrick will be ordered to CONSTITUTION, requests orders there himself. [Annotated that his information is incorrect
and the ship already is fully officered.]
From
Lieutenant John A. Davis, Washington, DC, 1 Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to take
passage in CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant L. M. Powell, Washington, DC, 3 Aug 1835:
Requests to be detached from
CONSTITUITION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman George T. Sinclair, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Aug 1835:
States his detachment from
CONSTITUTION as a result of his guardian's politicking; makes known his desire
to remain. [Detachment revoked.]
From
Passed Midshipman James L. Henderson, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of detachment
orders.
From
Chaplain James Everett, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Aug 1835:
Reports his return from leave.
From Lieutenant Charles Hunter, Newport, RI, 5
Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Charles Wager, Philadelphia, PA, 5 Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Midshipman Percival Drayton, New York, NY, 5 Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Assistant Surgeon Daniel Egbert, ?, 5 Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to take
passage in CONSTITUTION for later transfer to USS SHARK.
From
Lieutenant Andrew A. Harwood, Newport, RI, 6 Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to take
passage in CONSTITUTION for later transfer to USS SHARK, and requests a delay
due to pressing personal matters.
[Done.]
From
Surgeon R. J. Dodd, Frankford, KY, 6 Aug 1835:
When am I to take passage for USS
POTOMAC? [Annotated that he is to go in
CONSTITUTION.]
From
Passed Midshipman George L. Selden, Washington, DC, 8 Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman H. P. Robertson, Philadelphia, PA, 8 Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to take
passage in CONSTITUTION for later transfer to USS SHARK.
From
Sailing Master William Vaughn, Sackett's Harbor, NY, 9 Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Acting Midshipman Stephen Decatur Trenchard, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Aug 1835:
Requests transfer to "any other
ship." [Annotated: "Already
detached."]
From Purser John N. Hambleton, USS
CONSTITUTION, 10 Aug 1835:
Reports that Commodore Elliott wishes
him to take aboard $10,000, half in gold and half in silver. Half will be Spanish doubloons, which he can
procure at $16 the ounce. Requests
instructions as to how to proceed with regard to Spanish milled dollars on
which a premium of 3‑4% will be demanded.
Also inquires if he is to provide officers aboard for passage "the
customary advance of three months." [Annotated that he is not to pay a premium of
more than 3%, and to advance the money to passengers.]
From
Midshipman William E. Newton, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Aug 1835:
Requests to be detached from
CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Passed Midshipman W. S. Ringgold, Georgetown, DC, 10 Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Midshipman Henry Darcantel, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Aug 1835:
On the understanding that Sailing
Master Vaughn "will not be able to comply with his orders," requests
that, as senior Passed Midshipman aboard, he be ordered as Sailing Master.
From
Passed Midshipman Bushrod W. Hunter, New York Navy Yard, 13 Aug 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Purser Henry Etting, Philadelphia, PA, 15 Aug 1835:
"I duly received a letter from
John Boyle, Esqr acting Secretary of the Navy bearing date 11th July 1835
enclosing a copy of a letter from Commodore Elliott to the Navy Commissioners
dated the 1st July and which had been referred to the Navy Department,
requesting that I will 'furnish an explanation on the Several points affecting
[my] character and return the Copy with [my] explanation to the Department.'
"I have attentively read the
letter of Commodore Elliott & will bestow on it that careful consideration
which a proper respect for myself and the nature of its contents require. Commodore Elliott is pleased to remark that
'the letter of Mr. Etting is to me one of a very extraordinary character ‑
the origin of his groundless complaints may be discovered by a reference to the
Navy Department ‑ they proceed from a disposition to cover his incapacity
and delinquency under the pretext of opression {sic} on my part.' Permit me to call your attention to the
following facts ‑ The Frigate Constitution Commanded by Commodore Elliott
of which I was the Purser, arrived at New York on the 23rd day of June
1835. I addressed a letter on the
preceeding day to the Commissioners of the Navy, as I felt in duty bound to do,
setting forth such causes of complaint in the deportment of the Frigate under
my Charge as in my opinion the interests of the Service required should be
remedied. That letter was forwarded by
the Navy Commissioners to Commodore Elliott, and on the 1st of July, and in
reply to my letter of the 22d of June, the letter of Commodore Elliott was
written to which my attention is requested.
Up to this time no application had been made for my removal from the
Ship; no complaint of incapacity, nor charge of delinquency preferred to the
department against me; but I was, on the Contrary, permitted to continue in the
discharge of the duties of my office. It
is true, on the 4th of July, I was suspended on the charge of having disobeyed
a specific order, but the order for my suspension had scarcely gone forth
before it was withdrawn.‑ It was
then, on the 1st of July, and not till then, nine days after the arrival of the
Frigate, and when apprized through the Navy Commissioners of my letter, that to
quote Commodore Elliott's language, he says, alluding to what he terms 'my
groundless complaint' that 'they proceed from a disposition to cover his
incapacity & delinquency under the pretext of opression {sic} on my part‑' I will not cast back the unworthy imputation,
but these circumstances will explain where, if at all, it ought to rest.‑ So far, as respects the charges of incapacity
& delinquency 'where unsustained by any specification, they are too general
and vague to be susceptible of reply. I
will, however, remark that I have served under many Commanders of established
character & it is my happiness that such charges are now for the first time
preferred & that only by Commodore Elliott.‑ As regards the charges particularly set
forth, they are some of them, of grave import, which, if true, should affect my
character and should deprive me of my Commission; but which, if unfounded, have
injured me grievously {sic} & entitle me to a full vindication of my
character, as an Officer, and a Gentleman.
I [?] and earnestly request a full investigation of each & every
Charge.
In compliance with your request I
herewith return the copy of the letter from Commodore Elliott to the Navy
Commissioners and will proceed to notice the specific allegation {sic} in the
order in which they are preferred.‑
In the Copy of Commodore Elliott's letter I have numbered the charges in
red ink and beg your attention thereto while I endeavor to meet and I trust
successfully to answer them.‑‑
No
1 The Charge
refers to the space allotted, on board the Constitution, to the Purser for his public and private Stores.
Explanation.
The dimensions given of the Room in
the Cock Pit, of course to be lessened when it is considered that much of this
space is occupied by carlings, shelves &c: that, in the Fore Scuttle, {?}
only intended for Tobacco, Soap and articles of that description, as the Spirit
room had been contracted [so I was informed] to enlarge the after hold;
and nothing which belonged to {me?} was
allowed to be placed there, on the sailing of the Ship, that Commodore Elliott
is not correct as to the accommodation afforded me in the Spirit room: but he
is right in saying that at least four fifths of the room in the Fore Scuttle
were ever occupied by me: and for these reasons:‑ It was in the first
instance, nearly all occupied by the store of the Sailmaker and afterwards I
was never permitted to have the use of more than one half of this room, the
Larboard side of which was given to me, and the Starboard side, to the
Sailmaker, who retained it during the cruise.‑ The part I did occupy injured the Stores to
such a degree owing to the quantity of water which came in there that I was
compelled after several unsuccessfull {sic} attempts by the 1st Lieut, to
remedy the evil, to remove all the stores I had placed there; and they were
then put into an empty Bread Room about the 1st of June last; Since [sic] which
time I have had no stores in the Fore Scuttle.
The department will, therefore, judge of the accommodation allowed to the Purser on
board the Constitution‑ Commodore
Elliott is not correct in stating that there were Four Store rooms in the Cock
Pit filled at Boston: there were originally but three filled as State Rooms,
the fourth was fitted as a store
room, nor is Commodore Elliott Correct in
stating that I filled any room in the Cock Pit with shelves for the
reception of my articles & I would ask if Commodore Elliott granted
permission to Lieut Carpenter to occupy two rooms in the cock Pit what room besides the Store room then occupied by
me could he have intended.‑
Commodore Elliott's wine room, as he calls it, which he gave as a
substitute, is two feet nine inches in width and I would beg leave to state
that none of Mr. Livingston's Stores, though he had a great many were put into
the store room in the Cock Pit.‑
The Fore Magazine and the Birth {sic} Deck were appropriated for that
purpose.
No 2 This Charge refers to the purchase of good by me from an English Pilot Boat on the Coast of France
Explanation
The inconvenience to which I had been
subjected by the want of apartments was in a slight degree removed after the
ship arrived on the Coast of France, by the issue of clothing, which had been
made from the Store Room; this enabled me, though at much inconvenience, to
purchase some stores. The Considerable
quantity of Broadcloth; & Linen, which Commodore Elliott says, I introduced
on board was Eighteen pieces of the Cloths and Sixteen pieces of Irish Linen.‑ Not a piece or a yard of the latter was
issued on board though the Officers would have taken it all.‑ Even the Cloth for a long time I refused to let them have having reason to
believe it would expose me to painful animadversion on the part of Commodore
Elliott.‑ Commodore Elliott is not
correct in stating that I purchased these goods under a strong remonstrance
from his 1st Lieut: on the contrary his
1st Lieut or rather as I should express it the 1st Lieut of the Ship seemed
pleased that Mr Woodyear had bought them.‑ The 1st Lieut and the Commanding Officer of
the Ship at the time, and clearly, nothing could have been introduced on board against his approbation. If I remember rightly the Ship was {word
obscured} too to take these goods on board, at any rate, they were hoisted in
by his order or permission.‑ The
goods referred to were purchased on the 23d of April, the day before Commodore Elliott returned
from Paris, and the order which he says was issued on his return from Paris and
which he extracts from the log book of 24th April, was not given to me till the
29th of this month; nor was this order on the log book, seen by the Officer who
signed the remarks for the watch which contain it, till exhibited to him by me
since the ship's arrival at New York.
That Commodore Elliott was not over anxious to have certificates of the
kind suggested will appear evident from the Certificate submitted herewith
[marked A.] {sic} As an apology for
procuring the certificate I must urge the peculiar disposition Commodore
Elliott had manifested towards me. The
emoluments resulting from the purchase of Stores is {sic] a legitimate
perquisite of the grade of Officer to which I belong.‑
No
3 This Charge
refers to the Smallness in the Supply of Slops and Stores in my epartment received on
board the Frigate Constitution while at Boston.‑
Explanation:
Commodore Elliott is not correct, in
stating that the deficiencies of apartments was urged by me as an excise for
the smallness of the Supply of Slops received in my department of the Ship when
at Boston. In proof of this I refer to a
copy of my letter to the Navy
Commissioners herewith submitted [marked B] and if I omitted any part of my
duty at Boston The Honble Secretary of the Navy was fully apprized by me in several
communications shewing (sic} the impracticability of my attending
the duties of the ship previously
to her Sailing from Boston at the same time I was called on to perform at that
Station duties which in other Stations are devolved on two officers of my
grade. It was obviously my interest to
have a full supply of every thing that could be required.‑ At New York I might have purchased many
stores had I been allowed a place in which to put them. My letter to the Commissioners of the Navy
[marked B.] {sic} above referred to will corroborate my statement.
No
4 This Charge
refers to my not furnishing Commodore Elliott with a private letter which i had received from Mr
Vincent, a merchant in Norfolk, previously to the Sailing of the Frigate
Constitution and to the supplanting Government Slops by the receipt of certain articles
on board that Ship.
Explanation:
The letter in question, it will be
perceived, is not alleged to contain any charge against me & neither does
{words obscured} my Character; and was entirely private in its nature. The right of Commodore Elliott to demand a
copy of such a letter may well be questioned.
At the time he requested it, it could not immediately be found. It has since been found and is now in my
possession and if in the opinion of the department, it is proper that it should
be produced, I certainly can have no hesitation in placing at its
disposition. Commodore Elliott says 'he
[meaning myself] informs me that Mr ?} will call upon him for it.'
Is it characteristic of a manly mind to deal in indirect imputation? I feel that this requires no further
notice. Commodore Elliott gave me
permission however to purchase Sheeting from Mr Vincent and observed that I
could have it sent to New York for me. I
beg leave to refer you to letters on this subject herewith submitted [marked
C.D.E. & F.] [sic] I would here
remark that the letter to me [marked E] did not advise me that he wanted a Copy
of the letter from Mr Vincent in order that he might shew [sic] it to the
Commissioners. The sheeting from Mr
Vincent is charged at 24 1/2 Cents per yard: whether this be at a treble advance
as Commodore Elliott
asserts it will be for the Commissioners to judge. Commodore Elliott must have known that all
articles sold by the purser are for his private emolument.
No
5 This Charge
refers to my answering a letter from the American Consul at Cowes received by
Commodore Elliott at Plymouth.
Explanation
This letter was not a llittle
extraordinary in its Character considering that it was addressed by a Consul at
an English port to an American Commodore he being in a Frigate on the Coast of
France instructing him as to the duties, & questioning the propriety of the course adopted by the
Ship under his command. It was natural
that the purser of the Ship should feel some surprise on the duty of answering
such a communication being devolved on him.‑ The circumstances respecting the letter
of the Consul to Commodore
Elliott are these [of which letter a copy is in the possession of the Navy
Commissioners. . . [in the original]
Commodore Elliott employed a man named Edwd Milligan who was, I believe,
the master of the vessel from which I bought the goods of Mr Woodyear.
He was employed to pilot the Constitution from Havre to Cowes or
Portsmouth but the wind not permitting the ship to go into either of these
ports she bore away for Cherbourg and the discharged Milligan [See copy of his
receipt annexed marked H.] {sic} His
charge for the days detention was Seventy five dollars.Commodore Elliott wrote
& sent to the Consul at Cowes, to enquire respecting this charge. The letter referred to from the Consul to
Commodore Elliott was received through Mr Woodyear the purport and substance of
which as near as I can recollect is here given, to wit.
'I think Milligan has charged too much ‑ pay him [blank] dollars
in addition to what he has received and
then he will be fairly and properly paid ‑ his vessel is known on the coast as a Smuggler and it appears
Singular to me that you should employ any ther persons to supply your Ship when it could be done and ought to be
done through the
Consul. It is the duty of Commanders of
vessels of War of the United States who come to this Coast to Communicate with the Consul. In this instance I have heard of your wants, which you
have carefully concealed from me, through Mr Woodyear a clothier at Cowes, who called
upon me to ask for my commands & said that he was going over to France to furnish the Constitution with
supplies. I would caution you Sir, against dealing with
persons of whose character you have no knowledge‑'
The foregoing, to the best of my
recollection, is the substance of the letter of the Consul at Cowes; it is
evident that he was disappointed in not furnishing the Ship himself. It is not a little singular that an American
Consul should permit these smugglers as he terms them to have intercourse with
him and with a Frigate of the United States without giving notice to the
authorities of the place‑ I would
remark that purchases by a purser may be from any individual and had the Ship
been at Cowes the Consul would not necessarily have been employed by the purser
to make purchases for him‑ Of
course it will not be expected that I should, after this, answer a letter on
behalf of Commodore Elliott.
No
6 This Charge
refers to my having knowingly dealt with and purchased Goods from a Smuggler, with a view to
benefitting myself and violate the revenue laws.
Explanation:
This charge is indeed a weighty
one,,and if there is guilt on the part of any one, calls for an example. How Stands the Case? On the 23d of April 1835 Mr Woodyear, who had
written to me from Cowes, [See his letter herewith submitted marked J.] [sic] came on board the Constitution when off
Havre with some stores which he said he had brought to sell me‑ On
reporting this to the 1st Lieut of the Ship the articles referred to were
received on board and most of them were purchased by me‑ Some were taken by other Officers‑ A list of Most which I purchased has already
been furnished to the Commissioners of the Navy.‑ The articles I purchased were such as are
commonly used on board, some of them only samples of articles of which there
were none on board at the time. I took
out in the Constitution fewer store [sic] than were ever before to my knowledge taken in a Frigate in our Navy.‑ After paying for these goods Mr Woodyear, who
had been entertained at the Ward Room mess Table, left the Ship to return to
Cowes, but Milligan the reported Smuggler who came with him was kept on board
by Commodore Elliott as a pilot for
the Constitution‑ Commodore Elliott shews [sic] that, however others may
have been ignorant, that he did know the Character of the vessel to be such as
the Consul represents, and with this knowledge and after the date of the order
on the log book 24th of April he himself introduced into the Ship a number of
articles from the same vessel and from the same person from whom I had
purchased on the 23d of April. These
goods I paid for by his order May 5th eleven days after the date of my
purchase, [See bill annexed marked K.] nor [sic] nor did Commodore Elliott
receive these goods when first brought along side the ship by mr Woodyear, but
gave him to understand so Mr Woodyear
informed me that they should be received on board so soon as it could be done
without offending the authorities at Cherbourg, and they were accordingly taken
on board so soon as the Ship had left the Port.
Woodyears vessel in the mean time had been cruising in sight of the
Ship.‑ On the conduct of Commodore Elliott in charging me with
dealing with a Smuggler under these circumstances it does not become me to
pronounce judgement.
No 7 This Cannot be Considered a Charge but refers to an order issued by Commodore Elliott directing certain articles to be served out as the Slop advance
Explanation:
The order which Commodore Elliott
here refers to is dated June 11th nearly two months after the articles were
purchased and only a few days before the return of the Ship to New York. None of the linen however was served out
& no cloth to the Crew
excepting that which I was compelled to issue by Commodore Elliott's order [See
letter to Lieutenant Montgomery marked M.]
In reply to which Commodore Elliott sent me word by Lieut Montgomery
that the boys were not much in debt at any rate to serve the Cloth [See letter
and voucher annexed marked N. & O.] [sic]
No
8 This Charge
referes to my not having received on board the Constitution some Blue Cotton then in store at
the Navy Yard at Boston for which Commodore Elliott had signed a
requisition.
Explanation:
I must again remark that
Commodore Elliott is not correct. I did receive the Blue Cotton then in store
[See Store Keepers Acct herewith marked P.]
and I beg leave to state that the list of Slops and Stores received on
board & exhibited by me to Commodore
Elliott and by him approved & countersigned also Shews [sic] the receipt of
these Cottons on board the Ship, as well a [omitted word] of the quantity of
nankeen and Black Silk Hdkfs on board and which Commodore Elliott after
approving forbade me to issue [See paper annexed marked K]. I must also remark that Commodore Elliott is
not correct when he says I introduced on
board a large quantity of nankeens the paper last referred to will shew
there were but seventy pieces of nankeen, not half the number usually taken in
a Sloop of War.‑ Some of these nankeens are Still on board.‑
No
9‑ Commodore
Elliott says this is what the purser calls 'persecution'
Explanation:
The purser no where uses the
word persecution. It is of
Commodore Elliotts election, and it is not my province to question its
application.
No
10 This
refers to the Cost of the Monkey Jackets
Explanation:
It is true that this is no
concern of mine but as Commodore Elliott's statement respecting it is not
correct it may be my duty to furnish information. I therefore beg leave to refer you to the
Cost of the woolen article in the Store Keeper's Account annexed [marked P.]
and to letter [marked S] of the Cost of the India rubber.‑
No
11. This
Charge would seem to impute to me extortion.
Explanation:
No such charge is sustained as is shewn by
[word obscured] approved by Commodore Elliott to the bills of purchase. If it be true as Commodore Elliott suggests
that by keeping the Ship indebted to the men, a disposition to desert will be
in a great degree obviated why did Commodore Elliott in direct violation of the
law compel me to advance money to every man on board the Constitution whether
in debt or not [See letters annexed marked T & U.] and why against my
strong remonstrance did Commodore Elliott compel me to issue Slops to persons
known to him to be in debt & this too only a few days before the arrival of
the Ship, [See letters marked M & N.]
Some of whom are included among fifty of the Crew and upward, who have
deserted from the Constitution since March last.‑‑
And why, did Commodore Elliott on the 28 or 29th of April last permit a
number of persons to come from Cherbourg and dispose of sundry articles of Merchandise &c to the Crew of
the Ship in direct violation of the laws or regulations of the Navy which say
'no suttler [sic] shall be allowed on board our Ships of war.' Although the above is put in the shape of an
interrogation the facts amply warrant the same.‑
I have in conclusion, Sir, to express the
hope that the Department will not suffer me to remain in doubt as to the light
in which my conduct is to be perceived but will cause such an investigation to
be made, as if guilty, may subject me to deserved prosecution and punishment, but if
innocent will repair the wrong which has been done me."
[ENCLOSURES]
Commodore
Jesse D. Elliott to Commodore John Rodgers, BNC, 1 Jul 1835:
"The
communication from the Navy Comrs office of the 25th inst enclosing a copy of a
letter from Henry Etting, Purser of this ship and bearing date the 22nd inst
was duly recd and I hasten to give the explanations which that letter may seem
to require. I have caused the dimensions of the Apartments on board this ship
which its Purser has appropriated to his own use, to be correctly taken. His storeroom in the Cockpit measures 12
feet, 7 inches in length, 6 feet in width, and five in height. That in the fore scuttle is 5 ft 4 in from
the deck to the skin, 3 feet 5 in to kelson [sic] and 4 feet between the
bulkheads extending from side to side.
Also every accommodation in the after hold and Spirit room have been
afforded. The stores room in the fore
peak has been used by him for articles required in the monthly and quarterly
servings, and that in the cockpit for those of immediate requirement, and at
least four fifths of the former unoccupied by him. There are in the Cockpit of this Ship four
state rooms, one for each Asst Surgeon, one for the professor of Mathematics,
and the remaining one for the Clerk of the Commander. Such was the arrangement at the Boston Dock
Yard. Upon a representation made to me,
at that station (thro' the first Lt of the Yard) that he should require two
rooms in the Cock Pit, I granted him permission to occupy that number but under
a misapprehension, he took possession of the State Room of the Clerk, and
fitted it with shelves for the reception of his articles. I was ignorant of this until after the
departure of the Ship, when upon information of the fact, I ordered the
fixtures to be removed and the room to be restored to its original condition.
"For reasons hereinafter
mentioned, I have caused this apartment to be measured, its length is six feet,
width five feet three inches and height five feet nine inches.
"Having deprived the Purser of
this, I gave him my Wine Room in the Cockpit as a substitute, which on the
outward passage, for the accommodation of my own stores and those which I
anticipated would be brought on board by Mr Livingston, I was also compelled to
take from him.
"The letter of Mr Etting is to me
one of a very extraordinary character.
The origin of his groundless complaints may be discovered by a reference
to the Navy Department. They proceed
from a disposition to cover his incapacity and delinquency under the pretext of
oppression on my part.
"Notwithstanding the
inconvenience to which he asserts, he has been subjected by the want of
apartments, he on the Coast of France, without my knowledge and under strong
remonstrance from my 1st Lt, introduced on board from an English Pilot Boat a considerable
quantity of Broad Cloths and Linens. On
my return from Paris, I issued the
following orders, which I extract from the Log Book of this Ship 'The
articles received on board this day (April 24th) will be returned unless proper
certificates are obtained from the
Custom House officers at Cowes, shewing that they are legally brought on board,
in which case they may be retained & issued to the officers and crew.'
"The plea of want of room by the
Purser did not then prevent the purchase of articles the introduction of which
would be to supplant those of the Government.
"The deficiency of apartments is
again urged by the Purser as an excuse for the smallness of the supply of
articles of Slops and stores received in his department of this Ship at Boston. He had at that time, by his own shewing, two
apartments in the Cockpit, and if he was deprived of one afterwards, it
will not avail him as a justification for his delinquency in furnishing an
adequate supply for the ship at the t ime of her departure.
"Previous to his or my
appointment to the Constitution, Mr Etting exhibited to me at the Boston
station, a letter from Mr Vincent of Norfolk containing a statement of articles
which he (Mr V) had furnished the Delaware and Potomac at the same time expressing
his wish that the same articles should be introduced on board the
Constitution. I have requested Mr Etting
to furnish me with a copy of that letter in order that I might shew to the
Commissioners the extent to which the Government slops are supplanted by the
introduction of articles at treble advance and for the private emolument of the
Purser. He informs me that the letter is
lost or mislaid. Whether it be so or
not, I hope the Commrs will call upon him for it. I enclose to the Commrs a copy of a letter
marked A from the American Consul at Cowes, received by me at Plymouth when the
Ship was under weigh. I coould not then
reply to it, but early in the passage to the U. S. I requested the Purser to
make the reply. Since my arrival I
addressed a note a copy of which is enclosed marked B requesting a copy of his
answer to the letter of the American Consul, but for the frivolous reasons
stated in his note herewith enclosed (marked C) my request has not been
complied with. The unexpected
information which the letter of the Consul contains, served to confirm the
opinion I had previously formed of the character of the vessel from which Mr
Etting introduced the articles, when on the Coast of France and of the object
of his purchase. A copy of the list of
those articles and their cost and issuing price is herewith enclosed marked
(D). In addition to the order above
extracted from the Log Book, I issued another to the Purser directing those
articles to be served out at the Slop advance.
I would here remark that at the Boston Station I signed for this Ship a
request for a quantity of Blue Cottons then in store at the Navy Yard, but they
were not received on board by Mr Etting, although there was room enough for a
98. Yet I find a large quantity of
nankins [sic] introduced on board, and also a quantity of blk silk Hkfs, all at
his private advance and which I forbade to be issued to the crew. This is what the Purser calls
persecution. The monkey Jackets were of
India Rubber & at a cost of about half the woolen article and designed for
the use of the petty officers.
"I feel it my duty, Gentlemen, to
protect the crew from extortion, and by keeping the Ship indebted to the Men a
disposition to desert will in a great degree be obviated. I would respectfully recommend to the Commrs
[words obscured] whole served out to the crew of our Ships should be specified
by name in their accounts, in order that every man may know with what he has
been charged. A necessity still exists
of introducing into the service further regulations defining and circumscribing
the power which Pursers possess of taking advantage of their official stations
for the purposes of private speculation, as also to provide some preventative
against the introduction of articles to supplant the Government Slops."
A. Statement of George Woodyear, 5 May 1835:
"On the afternoon of the 3d May 1835,
when the Boat which brought me and my goods from Cowes was alongside the
Frigate Constitution, bound to Havre, I requested Mr Etting to dispatch me soon
as possible, that he would oblige me by receiving & paying me at once for
such articles as Comre Elliott was willing to purchase, that I was anxious to
go, as the Ship was advancing rapidly towards Havre.
"Mr Etting remarked that he did
not know that Comre Elliott would be willing to purchase or receive any of my
articles; at least till the proper certificates of regular clearance at Cowes
was produced, not only of the goods I had with me, but of those I had
previously sold to him, as there was some difficulty on board the Ship
respecting them;and the letter which he had addressed to me a day or two since,
by order of Comre Elliott, called for the Certificates from the custom House of
the Clearance of these goods. Mr Etting
then advised my speaking with Comre Elliott on the subject, & afterwards to
inform him of the result; I immediately saw Comre Elliott & returned &
told Mr Etting that there was no difficulty about recg my goods, that comre
Elliott when I went to speak to him about the Clearance of the goods, said
'never mind that, Mr Woodyear, it is of no consequence your word is sufficient
that all is right your goods shall be received & paid for Sir.'"
B. Letter of Henry Etting to the BNC, 24 Mar
1835:
"Herewith I have the Honor to
enclose to you an inventory of the Slop
Clothing received on board the Ship at Boston, Mass. and also a list of the
resale stores in my department, want of time prevented my transmitting these previous to my leaving the united
States.
"P.
S. I would respectfully remark, that the Sixteen hundred suits of Blue Cotton
Clothing and one hundred & fifty India Rubber Coats, ordered for this Ship
at Boston, were not finished at the time of her leaving the port, & it is
no doubt proper I should mention that it was out of my power (from causes which
will hereafter be made known to you) to provide as Customary, a supply of
private Stores for the wants of the crew."
C. Note from Henry Etting to Commodore Elliott,
24 Jun 1835:
"The sheeting (as per sample
exhibited to you) which I purchased from Mr Vincent by your permission to serve
to the Crew of this Ship as Pursers Stores, which arrived at New York about the
time of our sailing, has been even Since, and is now in Store there as an
expense to me; I therefore respectfully ask permission to have it brought on
board this Ship to be issued to the Crew."
D. Note from Commodore Elliott to Henry Etting,
28 Jun 1835:
"I acknowledge the receipt of
your letter in relation to the introduction of Duck; I recollect that you
submitted to me at the Boston Station, a letter in reference to the same
matter, will you be pleased to furnish me with a Copy of that letter."
E. Note from Elliott to Etting, 29 Jun 1835:
"Be pleased to furnish me with
the [word obscured] and quantity of the articles which you wish to introduce
into the Ship; as furnished by Mr Vincent of Norfolk."
F. Note from Elliott to Etting, 4 Jul 1835:
"Your letter in relation to the
Quantity of Sheeting was not recd this morning.
I expressly forbid the introduction of this article on board this Ship,
evidently designed to supplant the articles furnished by the Government."
H. Receipt from Edward Milligan, 24 Apr 1835:
"For service on board the U. S.
Frigate Constitution being employed at Havre as Pilot for the Harbour of Cowes
Spanish $75
"Received
U. S. Frigate Constitution April 24th 1835 Off Cherbourg of Henry Etting,
purser, Twenty five dollars on acct of the above‑ the balance, to say
Fifty dollars, to be paid me by Robert Hunter Esqr American Consul at Cowes,
agreeably to a Certificate of Comre Jesse D. Elliott of this date."
J. Note from George Woodyear to Henry Etting, 12
Apr 1835:
"I have taken the liberty of
soliciting your favors for my supplies you may be in want of having on several
occasions supplied U. S. Ships bound to the Mediterranean.the [sic] last ship the Delaware, I furnished
supplies when off Cherbourg, and have since forwarded a large Quantity to
Gibraltar, for which I have Mr Thornton's testimonials. I have annexed a few of the articles Supplied
the Delaware. Should you favor me with
an order I will bring them to Havre, or forward them direct to Gibraltar. The Southampton Steam Packet will leave Havre
on Tuesday Evening the 14th at 9 OClock when your reply will oblige."
K. Bill of George Woodyear, 3 May 1835:
"For the following articles
purchased May 3d 1835 by order of Come Jesse D. Elliott for the use of the U.
S. Frigate Constitution.
"viz
"Received
U. S. Frigate Constitution Off Havre May 5th 1835 of Henry Etting, purser, Ten
hundred Eighty Six Spanish dollars & Seventy nine Cents in full of the
above bill."
L. Note from Elliott to Etting, 11 Jun 1835:
"All articles (not included in
the Commissioners Regulations) introduced on board this Ship since her
departure from the United States, to represent the article of Slops, you will
serve out at the Slop advance."
M. Note from Etting to Lieutenant John
Montgomery, 15 Jun 1835;
"The Boys in the Ship are
generally rated 2d class at six dollars per mo., & came on board 1st March,
overpaid Two & Three mos., which, with the supplies they have recd from me,
leaves them of course still in debt. I should
not therefore willingly make advances of purser's stores to them, the Ship
being bound to a port in the U. States, at which we expect she will arrive
within a week; private Stores, issued to the crew you are aware, are at
my own risk."
N. Note from Etting to Montgomery, 15 Jun 1835:
"As I feel unwilling to incur any
risk by advances to the men or Boys on board the Ship who are in debt, except
of necessaries (which I never deny them) you will do me a favor by asking Come
Elliott if he will receive on the Government acct, the Cloth as I purchased it,
which he has ordered me to issue to the Crew, the issue of which, will then be
at the risk of the Government and not at mine; I am the more particular as the
opportunity for desertion will soon be offered to the Crew; the inducement for
which I need not say to you, is increased, with those who are in debt."
"remark. In reply to the above Come Elliott said ‑
he would take from me as suggested so much Cloth as was required see Lieut
Mongomery's certificate marked O."
O. Lieutenant Montgomery's
"certificate" (receipt):
"1835
The
Fifty two yards of Cloth Charged 16th June 1835 in the above bill at Two 50/100 dollars per yard
were purchased from Purser Etting & issued on board the Constitution as
Public Slops by my Order.
This
will Certify that the different items in the above bill with the exception of
the Sugar & the Cloth were drawn from Purser Etting for the use of the
Ship, and through me, Come Elliott directed that the Cloth should be received
from Purser Etting, as public Slops, and issued for the Hospital depart[ment]
of the Ship on requisition of the
Surgeon.
P. Bill of Storekeeper George Bates, Boston Navy
Yard, Feb 24, 1835, for Slop Clothing for CONSTITUTION:
R. List of Slops received on board Frigate
Constitution, n. d., approved by J. D. Elliott:
List
of Pursers Stores recd on board Frigate Constitution
S. Note from George Bates to Henry Etting, 4 Aug
1835:
"The Pea Jackets of India Rubber
shipped to New York for the Constitution were Charged at Five dollars
each."
T. Letter from Etting to Montgomery, 28 Apr
1835:
"The orders of Come Elliott given
to me yesterday through you 'to pay in addition to the grog money which might
be due, the sum of two dollars to every man in the Ship whether in debt or not'
have been complied with, with the exception, that the marines received but one
dollar instead of two ‑ the Marine Officer ‑ Mr Hardy representing
to Come Elliott that it would be sufficient, and obtaining his permission to
pay them that Sum, and I would state that some of the mess boys have not yet
received what is to be paid to them, but will be paid tomorrow when it is
ascertained how much is to be allowed them.
"As these orders were verbal
altogether, I will thank you to state whether I have executed them according to
the intention and orders of Come Elliott."
"Note:
Lieut Montgomery declined affixing his name to the above, but said that if
necessary, he would at any time testify to it."
U. Note to 4th Auditor from Henry Etting, 22 Jun
1835:
"I will thank you to inform me
whether the Commander of a Ship is authorized to order or direct a disbursing
officer to advance money or pursers Stores to men who are in debt? and [sic] if so, to whom over payments
(arising from this cause) to men who afterward desert from the service will be
charged by the department?"
From
Midshipman Thomas S. McDonough, Utica, NY, 19 Aug 1835:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION, or to
NORTH CAROLINA if CONSTITUTION has her full complement of officers. [No.]
From
Sailing Master James Ferguson, New York Navy Yard, 20 Aug 1835:
"...By referring to the list of
expenses under the head of pilotage of all our public ships who have visited
the ports in the upper part of the English Channel previously to the
'Constitution' under the command of Commo. Elliott, there will be found a heavy
charge for Channel pilotage, this charge was saved to the Government in the
case of the Constitution by the reliance the Commo. had on my experience, in
which as is well known he was not deceived.
I trust that in the service I rendered on this occasion the Government
will find an additional reason to save me from any expense that might with
propriety be assumed by itself."
Roll 102, Vol 2 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1835)
From
Purser Henry Etting, Philadelphia, PA, 4 Sep 1835:
Asks whether or not his report of 15
Aug 1835 has been received.
From
Purser Henry Etting, Philadelphia, PA, 5 Sep 1835:
Acknowledges receipt of the
Secretary's acceptance of his report, but is disappointed that no further
enquiry has been thought necessary.
Requests a court of inquiry or court martial to officially clear his
name. [Annotated that the SecNav has
every confidence in him and that official proceedings are not possible due to
Commodore Elliott's absence overseas.]
Roll 103, Vol 1 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1835)
From
Lieutenant Oscar Bullus, Boston, MA, 22 Oct 1835:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION in
accordance with the expressed desires of Commodore Elliott; suggests he can
"go out" in NORTH CAROLINA.
[Yes.]
Vol 2 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1835)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1835)
From
Carpenter John Dickason, Charlestown, MA, 28 Dec 1835:
Reports expiration of leave, but
"...as I still labour under a severe Hernia for which I was detached from
the Constitution," requests another three months' leave. [Granted.]
Roll 104, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1836)
From
Passed Midshipman Edward Middleton, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Jan 1836:
Requests a 1 year leave to travel the
continent. [Approved for the end of the
cruise.]
Vol
2 (February 1 ‑ 29, 1836)
From
Passed MIdshipman J. W. Revere, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Feb 1836:
Requests a 1 year leave to travel on
the continent. [Approved for the end of
the cruise.]
Roll 105, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1836)
From
Surgeon William P. C. Barton, Philadelphia, PA, 20 Mar 1836:
Forwards letters from Fleet Surgeon
Boyd and Passed Midshipman William S. Ringgold, both in CONSTITUTION,
recounting details of a duel fought in Smyrna (Izmir), Turkey, by Passed
Midshipmen Barton (the writer's son) and Wood.
Barton, wounded in the affair, and his second, Ringgold, both have been
placed under arrest by Commodore Elliott.
The principal reason for the present letter is to bring to the
Secretary's attention the severe handling imposed on Barton by the Commodore.
[Enclosures]
From
Passed Midshipman William S. Ringgold to Surgeon Barton, Philadelphia, PA, 5
Dec 1835:
"I regret to inform you, your Son
was a few days since, severely wounded in a duel with Mr Wood, Pass Mid, in the
leg. The quarrel I believe is one of an
old standing, but brought to this unhappy termination by his being ordered to
the Schooner Shark where Mr Wood was, who refused to mess with him and I regret
to say the rest of the mess followed his example. This together with other insults left him no
other recourse, but to call him out: when after receiving two fires, his pistol
missing fire both times, had his leg fractured by the second shot. I am indeed happy to say Sir, that your son's
conduct on the field evinced that coolness and determination which always
emanate from a good cause, and every person acquainted with the circumstances
is of the opinion of myself that the course he pursued could not be avoided
without dishonor. I and the Surgeon who
attended deemed it necessary for him to be brought on board of this vessel to
have the ball extracted rather than on the schooner. He was accordingly broughton board and the
ball extracted with no difficulty; during this time Com. Elliott was absent
from the ship and as soon as he returned the thing was of course reported by
the 1st Lieut. You cannot judge our
surprise to hear the order given that 'Mr Barton should be immediately taken on
board of the Shark,' this order being issued without knowing what the
consequence might be. Dr Boyd the
Surgeon of the Ship immediately waited upon him
and protested in the strongest terms against this inhuman order, but he
would not be heard by the Come. [sic] who said he must go and he would bear the
responsibility. He was therefore hoisted
over the side and sent back to the Schooner.
You sir as a medical gentleman can imagine what his suffering must have
been, labouring under excitement from opium and such inhumane treatment. Through Dr Boyd's intercession he was removed
on shore yesterday where he will receive all the attention & care which he
requires in his present condition.
Before your son was ordered on board the schooner her Capt. knowing the
difference between them told the Commdr he was afraid that this would be the
result of their being together. All the
parties are now suspended and the Com. has threatened to report them to the
Sec. of the Navy."
From
Surgeon Thomas J. Boyd to Surgeon Barton, 31 Jan 1836:
"I promised Midshipman Barton to
inform you by the first opportunity of his condition. We left him at Smyrna on the 5th inst doing
well in every respect. The ball wound had
healed, the circular opening which was made for the extraction of the Ball was
still discharging. The only obstacle to
a speedy recovery was a fragment of the Tibia which was exfoliating but not
sufficiently detached to be removed by incision. This fragment had been put in its place at
the first dressings and i believe would have united as did the others had not
Mr Barton been subjected, against my urgent remonstrance, to removal. The ball traversed the Tibia in its upper
third fracturing it transversely & splintering it longitudinally and lodged
posteriorly to it [word obscured] the gastroenemia [?]. The entrance of the Ball being on the front
could not give vent to the discharge & I therefore cut down to the Ball, removed
it & dressed the incision so as to heal it by the first intention if nature
should consolidate the bone without producing any suppuration in the soft parts
or to secure as an outlet against any accumulation that might form in the
inflammatory stage. The slivers were
thrown off favourably & no accidents occurred. The Tibia had consolidated with the exception
of the above mentioned fragment. The
Surgeon under whose charge I left him perceived the necessity of removing it by
incision as soon as a slight sore throat which Mr B. laboured under subsided. After the treatment Mr B. received from Com.
Elliott I could only urge his coming on board this ship and I insisted on his
[obscured] being sent to the Shark. to
leave him in Smyrna was his own request."
From
Sailmaker James Davis, Charlestown, MA, 29 Mar 1836:
Notes he has been in service since Apr
1821, when he cruised with Commodore Jones in CONSTITUTION until 1824. Wishes orders to Boston Navy Yard. [Noted.]
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1836)
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Crillon Barton, Smyrna, Asia Minor, 8 Apr 1836:
"...It is now four months since
the accident, and my surgeon tells me, it will be unsafe to trust my leg for as
many months more, I therefore respectfully request leave of absence for six
months from the receipt of this application...
Having heard that our squadron is recalled, I think it necessary to
state to you Sir, never having been asked by Commo. Elliott to vindicate
myself, that my antagonist Passd Midn Wood insulted me, not only by repeated
aspersions on my bravery but, by refusing to mess with me on board the Schr.
Shark, an insult which I felt bound for the honor of the button I wear to
resent." {Annotated to inform him
the squadron has not been recalled, the leave is therefore not granted, and
Commodore Elliott has been told to handle the matter.]
From
Surgeon Thomas J. Boyd, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Apr 1836:
Requests detachment and permission to
return to the U.S. for his health.
[Annotated: return in POTOMAC.]
From
Midshipman George T. Sinclair, Washington, DC, 25 Apr 1836:
Reports his return to the US from
CONSTITUTION; requests leave. [Granted.]
Roll 106, Vol 1 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1836)
From
Passed Midshipman J. W. Cooke, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 May 1836:
Requests a 1 year leave to tour
Europe.
Vol 2 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1836)
NOTHING
Roll 107, Vol. 1 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1836)
From
Passed Midshipman Montgomery Lewis, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Jul 1836:
Requests leave of absence and
permission to return home due to problems there. [Granted.]
From
Assistant Surgeon Victor L. Godon, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Jul 1836:
Requests a 1 year leave of absence at
the end of the ship's cruize to travel in Europe. [No.]
Vol 2 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1836)
NOTHING
Roll 108, Vol 1 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1836)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1836)
NOTHING
Roll 109, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 20, 1836)
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Crillon Barton, New York, NY, 18 Nov 1836:
Reports his arrival in New York in the
merchant schooner HERO of New Orleans, from Smyrna.
"...I have been detained in
Smyrna, since the 5th of January last, at which period Com. Elliott left with
the squadron for Gibraltar. At the time
of Com. Elliott's departure no orders were issued on the event of my recovery,
and until the 28th of August last I never heard a word from him. It was through a letter from Mr. Offley, our
Consul at Smyrna, dated Aug 28th (and which is enclosed marked No. 1.) that I
received a message from Co. Elliott, saying, that if I were in a state to join
my vessel, I could meet her at Malta, early in October. Com. Elliott however does not give me an
order to proceed to Malta but leaves it as you will perceive in a degree
optional with myself. The severe and
protracted suffering which I have undergone has coincidentally impaired my
health, and rendered me heretofore
incapable of joining with either the squadron or my country; and I hope Sir,
that the following reasons will at once be sufficient to reinstate me in the
estimation of yourself and my government for a step, which I have been induced
to take, solely for the preservation of my leg and my life.
"1st The three surgeons by whom I was attended,
thought it imprudent to wander from place to place, the cavity in my leg being nearly an inch deep; and
the new bone formed, extremely
tender. They recommended for my
recovery, the climate I was
most accustomed to, and pronounced me unfit for duty for twelve months hence. In support of which allow me to refer you to
the enclosed opinions of the surgeons of H.B.M. ships 'Tribune' and
'Favorite' as well as that of my constant surgeon V. L. Morpargo of
Smyrna, marked No. 2 & 3.
"2nd There had been no opportunity for Malta for
some months prior to the receipt of
Mr. Offley's communication, and was now at the time of my sailing 25
days after; nor was any
expected shortly to occur, so that it would have been an impossibility
for me to reach Malta, and ride out the quarantine of 21 days, by the time mentioned in Mr. Offley's
letter. In support of which Sir, I refer
you to the enclosed
certificate from Mr. Offley marked No. 4.
"3rd I did not possess the means of reaching
Malta, even had a chance offered, Com. Elliott having left no 'Bill of
Credit' for pay since the 31st of last March, from which time I have been
without one cent, in a foreign country, with a broken leg, and entirely destitute of friends
and acquaintances, save those I made while there. In support of this Sir, allow me to
refer you to the enclosed certificate from Griffin Smith Esqr, merchant from Baltimore
at Smyrna, marked No. 5.
"Subsisting as I was on the
generosity of a countryman ‑ daily incurred debts, which the unhappy state of my
leg rendered necessary, and which I was unable to pay, and would have been unable to
pay, until the arrival of the squadron next year, together with the certificates and
opinions, enclosed, will I trust Sir, obliterate any blame that you might impute to me for
leaving Smyrna.‑ For this passage
to my country Sir, I am even
indebted to the generosity of the Captain of the 'Hero.' Previous to my leaving Smyrna, I wrote
Com. Elliott my intentions. Allow
me therefore respectfully
to solicit permission to enter the Naval Hospital at this place until my leg is cured..."
[Hospitalization ordered. Enclosures not copied as they are as stated
above.]
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1836)
From
Passed Midshipman William T. Muse, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Dec 1836: |