|
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:
Requests a 1 year leave to travel
Europe, to begin 13 Mar 1837. [No.]
Roll 110, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1837)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1837)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1837)
NOTHING
Roll 111, Vol 1 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1837)
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Crillon Barton, Naval Asylum, Philadelphia, PA, 20
Apr 1837:
Requests release from asylum to
recuperative leave. [Granted.]
From
Assistant Surgeon D. C. McLeod, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Apr 1837:
Reported to the ship on 28 Jan 1837
and so missed the previous examination for promotion. Requests permission to return to the US in
September or October so as to be present for the next examinations. [Annotated: "Have him relieved in
time..."]
Vol 2 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1837)
NOTHING
Roll 112, Vol 1 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1837)
From
Chaplain Thomas R. Lambert, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Jul 1837:
Requests detachment from the ship when
next it arrives at Port Mahon, and leave to travel in Europe "until next
summer." Commodore Elliott's
endorsement is that he intends returning the Chaplain to UNITED STATES, from
whence he came, so he can complete his required sea duty. [Annotated that leave of absence will be
granted at the end of the cruise.]
From
Lieutenant John Colhoun, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Jul 1837:
"I feel that it is not only
right, but my duty to represent to you the Conduct of Comme Elliott towards me
on the Quarter Deck of this ship, in presence of most of the Officers and
ship's company.
"On the morning of the 23rd Inst,
all hands were called to bring ship to an anchor, and I immediately repaired to
my station on the Forecastle. when [sic]
hailed by the first Lieut. and ordered to stand by and haul up the Foresail I
immediately answered, but before I had time to report that I was ready, the
order was given to haul up the
Sail. It not coming in as soon as the
Comme wished, I was sent for by Captain Boerum and asked the reason why the men
did not work faster, and why I did not answer the hail from the Quarter
Deck. I replied that I had answered all
hails which I had heard, and that I was exerting myself to carry on the duty
properly; The Captain appeared satisfied with the explanation, when Comme
Elliott addressed me in a loud and angry manner. 'You have not attended to your duty
Sir.' 'You do not attend to your duty
Sir.' When I replied I do always attend
to my duty Sir, he said 'You do not Sir,' repeating the same words several
times and I answering as aforesaid, he concluded by ordering me forward to my
duty.
"On the 24th Instant, immediately
after the Comme had finished his dinner, he sent me an order to man his boat,
which order was complied with. when
[sic] the Comme was about stepping over the side of the Ship, he turned around
and asked for Mr. Darcantel, and I immediately sent a Midshipman for him. He then asked who was Officer of the Deck,
and on replying that I was, he looked fiercely at me and said in a very excited
manner, 'I don't like your manner Sir.'
I replied I am not aware of anything improper in my manner Sir, when he
repeated the same remark several times, and on my again replying, that I was not
aware of any thing improper in my manner, he called out in a loud and angry
tone of Voice 'I observed your conduct yesterday Sir,' ‑ 'You have
mistaken your man Sir' ‑ "leave the Deck Sir' ‑ 'appoint
another Officer in his place Sir.'
"In making this communication I
feel no ordinary sensation and relying on the Justness of my cause, I
respectfully submit the case for your consideration, asking that protection to
which my rank entitles me."
[Annotated: "File for further consideration."]
Vol 2 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1837)
NOTHING
Roll 113, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1837)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1837)
NOTHING
Roll 114, Vol 1 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1837)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1837)
From
Lieutenant John Colhoun, USS SHARK, 3 Nov 1837:
"...And I again deem it incumbent
upon me to lay before the Honble Secretary of the Navy, a statement of Comme
Elliott's continued ill treatment towards me.
"From the time of my being
suspended from duty on the 25h of July, I was confined to the Ship by Comme
Elliott's order, and denied all the privileges of the other Officers, and
visited the Shore but four times, and that by the recommendation of the
Surgeon, by confinement in a warm climate.
This lasted until the 26th of October; when (after three months confinement
for no Offence, no misconduct, no violation of etiquette, or regulations of the
service; and after by my communication Dated July 25th, I had referred my case
to the Secretary of the Navy, and was informed that I was to remain suspended
until his decision was known) I was ordered to report for duty on board the U.
s. Schooner Shark, which is but a continuance of ill treatment ‑
Oppression, and unmerited punishment‑‑
"If Commodore Elliott had
sufficient grounds for my suspension, why am I restored to duty, without an
investigation, after I have reported him to the Department? and [sic] why have not any charges been
advanced against me? If the Comme found
that he had no real charge to prefer against me, why am I still persecuted by
being ordered from the vessel to which I was attached, and of which by my date
of Commission I was Second Lieutenant, to a Schooner when even to be ordered in
honor, is a punishment.
"I respectfully remonstrated
against what was evidently intended as a continued punishment, to which I
merely received a verbal answer that it as not intended as such.
"The verbal assertion so far from
being sufficient to convince any one, amounts to an additional outrage, being
but an insult to my understanding, when Comme E knew that there were many
Officers in the Squadron who had they been ordered in my place, would not have
had the reasons that I must have, to believe that my orders to this vessel were
intended as a punishment, at the very moment that he was openly acknowledging
the injustice of my suspension, by restoring me to duty.
"Situated as I am, regarded by
every Officer of the Squadron as suffering punishment by my orders to this
Schooner, knowing that I have in no way violated the Regulations of the Navy,
or given Comme Elliott any just cause for offence, still suffering under the
recollections of insults offered while on duty on board the Constitution, which
immediately led to my suspension. I feel
bound in duty to my Rank, and to my outraged feelings Respectfully to present this
report to the Department, and urgently solicit again its protection.‑‑
"I have addressed five several
communications to Commodore Elliott, requesting to be informed as why I was
suspended from duty, disclaiming all consciousness of having deviated in any way from a correct
course of conduct, requesting to be allowed the same privileges as other
Officers &&; to none of which have I received any but verbal and
unsatisfactory answers through Captain Boerum.
"I beg leave respectfully to
forward to the Department a Copy of all my communications to Comme Elliott in
relation to this matter."
[Enclosures
not copied as they contain nothing not in the foregoing letter.]
From
Lieutenant John Colhoun, USS SHARK, to Senator James Buchanan, 13 Nov 1837:
"I trust the liberty I take in
addressing a communication to one with whom I am personally unacquainted, may
be lost sight of in consideration, that I address a representative of my voting
state...
"I was persecuted, insulted, and
abused by Comme Elliott, so much so, that I found it necessary to make an
official report of the same to the Navy Department, which had but the effect of
drawing down upon me repeated and continued ill treatment, which I have again
represented to the Honorable Secretary of the Navy.
"A regulation of the Department
requires us to forward all communications through the Comme of the Squadron, in
accordance with which mine has been placed in Commo Elliott's hand to be
forwarded. We have an instance in the
Squadron of Comme Elliott's acting upon such a document before reaching the
hands of the Secretary of the Navy to whom they were addressed ‑ a
document over which he had no just right, as it was merely placed in his hands,
by regulation of the Depart. to be forwarded and to plainly, (for only in a
plain manner can I express my sentiments) I have not that confidence in Comme
Elliott, to trust to his fulfilment [sic] of his duty in this respect.
"I herewith forward to you a copy
of my communications and respectfully request that, if your feelings will allow
you to act in the case, you will call the notice of the Department to them, and
request the Secretary of the Navy to have me removed from Comme Elliott's
command." [Annotated to authorize
leave.]
Vol 3 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1837)
From
Passed Midshipman Montgomery Lewis, Port Mahon, Minorca, 4 Dec 1837:
Reports having detached "from the
Mediterranean Squadron;" request 6 months' leave to visit Paris.
Roll 115, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1838)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1838)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (March 1‑ 31, 1838)
NOTHING
Roll 116, Vol 1 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1838)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1838)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1838)
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Crillon Barton, USS EXPERIMENT, 25 Jun 1838:
Understanding that CONSTITUTION is now
returning, prefers charges against Commodore Jesse Duncan Elliott for cruelty,
oppression, inhumanity, persecution, and conduct unbecoming an officer and
gentleman. Reports all witnesses either
are in the US, or will be when CONSTITUTION and SHARK return. Places himself under the protection of the
Department.
Roll 117, Vol 1 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1838)
From
Assistant Surgeon D. C. McLeod, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Jul 1838:
States he reported aboard CONSTITUTION
at Tangier on 28 Jan 1837, ending a protracted leave studying in Paris. Is concerned about taking promotion
examinations.
Vol 2 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1838)
From
Passed Midshipman James L. Heap, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 Aug 1838:
Reports his return to the US in this
ship.
From
Lieutenants C. H. McBlair, P. Drayton, Henry A. Steele, and Henry Darcantel,
and Midshipman W. T. Muse, Norfolk, VA, postmarked 22 Aug 1838:
"We the undersigned officers
recently attached to the U. S. S. Constitution beg leave respectfully to call
the attention of the Department to the following outline of circumstances
involving insubordination of the gravest character which recently occurred on
board of that ship.
"Whilst in Hampton Roads, some of
the crew who had been employed transporting horses and Jack asses on shore for
the Commodore returned very much intoxicated & They at once became riotous
and disorderly; no effectual measure being adopted to secure the person of the
offenders and to quell the disturbances, the difficulties in a short time
became more violent and so general as to embrace a large portion of the
crew. The gun deck became as in personal contest [sic],
and all order and discipline seemed abandoned, giving place to the wildest
noise, uproar and confusion. Some of the
men at length attacked the Master at arms, the nature of whose duties is calculated
to excite dislike; though rescued by some of the officers, it was not before he
had been most severely beaten: after some difficulty two of the assailants were
secured and put in irons on the verge of the Quarter Deck under charge of a
sentry ‑ but they were the whole time using the most violent and mutinous
language. Shortly afterward all hands
were called to stand by their hammocks, when a more dangerous crisis appeared
approaching; a large body of men rushed aft, bore off and liberated the prisoners
although both the Commodore and Captain were at the time, on deck and within a
short distance, and the request of the
former that they should be returned was treated with the utmost contempt.
"A negro who had in some way
rendered himself obnoxious to the crew was next the object of a vigorous
pursuit and as loud menaces were made against his life, and preparations
actually made for hanging him, nothing but the utmost watchfulness saved his
life.
"During the continuance of these
disturbances which lasted until a late hour of the night, the highest state of
excitement prevailed attended with the most outrageous language, loud threats
and denounciations were directed against certain officers, and at one period in
the presence of the Commodore many heaped the most violent reproaches and
execrations on the first Lieutenant and even talked it was said of using
personal violence. One of the crew who
seemed to possess much influence walked up and said that he now commanded the
ship, and the first Lieutenant actually considered his life in danger.
"Such Sir are the leading
circumstances of a sedition that rarely occurs in a well organized Navy and is
we hope entirely novel and unprecedented in ours.
"We submit them to the Department
in the most respectful spirit, and with the most upright intentions confining
ourselves simply to a concise and faithful narrative of facts, without
venturing to pass on them any judgement, to offer any comment, to propose any
remedy, or to form any conjecture as to the causes which produced them.
"We
are induced to address the head of the Navy Department on this subject by
honest, direct and sincere motives of duty.
We are animated by a high sense of what we owe to the service to which
we have the honor to belong; we are moved by a lively regard for our own
characters, which must necessarily be affected in some degree by the events
which transpired on board of the ship in which we are serving.
"Such at once are the reasons
which govern us and such is the apology we offer for communicating this affair
to the department." [Annotated:
"Copy sent to Com Elliot & explanation asked."]
From
Lieutenant Henry A. Steele, Wilmington, DE, 22 Aug 1838:
Reports himself on leave, having been
detached from CONSTITUTION on 17 Aug.
From
Captain Daniel T. Patterson, Washington Navy Yard, 27 Aug 1838:
Forwards request of Purser G. C.
Cooper for orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman R. Forrest, Washington Navy Yard, 25 Aug 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Boatswain John C. Miller, New York Navy Yard, 29 Aug 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Assistant Surgeon J. R. Addison, Washington, DC, 29 Aug 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Roll 118, Vol 1 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1838)
From
Passed Midshipman Lafayette Maynard, Richmond, VA, 3 Sep 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant S. F. DuPont, Wilmington, DE, 4 Sep 1838:
Requests orders to either OHIO or
CONSTITUTION (as her First Lieutenant).
[Not the latter.]
From
Assistant Surgeon B. Houston Magill, Philadelphia, PA, 7 Sep 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman M. Carrington Watkins, USS MACEDONIAN, 8 Sep 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Not until 1853.]
From
Passed Midshipman Lloyd J. Bryon, USS MACEDONIAN, 12 Sep 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Lieutenant
John C. Sharpe, Norfolk, VA, 15 Sep 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Sailmaker A. B. Pees, Norfolk, VA, 16 Sep 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman John B. Marchand, Philadelphia, PA, 17 Sep 1838:
Requests orders as Master in
CONSTITUTION. [Not until 1843; then as
Lieutenant.]
From
Midshipman John P. Bautche, Fredericksburg, VA, 17 Sep 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Assistant Surgeon Edward H. Van Wyck, Philadelphia, PA, 18 Sep 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant Commandant Cadwallader Ringgold, USS ?, 19 Sep 1838:
"...At the period of the return
of the John Adams to the U. States from her late cruise to the Mediterranean, I
was directed to reenter for the Constitution any of her crew that chose to
volunteer, with the priviledge [sic] of a week on shore and a doubloon each. I accordingly reentered a portion of the crew
of the John Adams with the understanding that they were to be discharged at the
close of the cruise of the Constitution."
From
the Secretary of the Navy Dickinson to Purser Henry Etting, 8 Oct 1836
(enclosure to Etting's letter to Secretary of the Navy Paulding, 20 Sep 1838):
"I do not consider your short
term of service as purser of the Frigate Constitution as interfering with your
claims for service on board of any other vessel whatever. In asking to be relieved from duty in the
Constitution I did not consider you in fault."
From
Lieutenant William D. Newman, New York Navy Yard, 25 Sep 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman W. M. Caldwell, Hudson, NY, 28 Sep 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Acting Carpenter Henry Little, Gosport Navy Yard, 28 Sep 1838:
Is it true that I am to be ordered to
CONSTITUTION? [No.]
From
Midshipman J. D. Usher, USS MACEDONIAN, 29 Sep 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Vol 2 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1838)
From
Lieutenant R. R. Pinkham, Nantucket, MA, 1 Oct 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Passed Midshipman James F. Armstrong, Woodbury, NJ, 3 Oct 1838:
Requests orders to OHIO, CONSTITUTION,
or ST LOUIS. [Not CONSTITUTION.]
From
Carpenter Henry P. Leslie, Gosport Navy Yard, 4 Oct 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant T. D. Shaw, Philadelphia, PA, 8 Oct 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Lieutenant G. F. Pearson, Portsmouth Navy Yard, 12 Oct 1838:
"I have just received your letter
of the 8th instant, relating that the Department has learned that a sword was
presented to me while in command of the U. S. Schooner Shark, in the
Mediterranean.
"While in command of the Shark I
was not presented with a sword of any description, but when first lieutenant of
the U. S. Ship Constitution, under the command of Commodore Elliott, I
received, through him, a Turkish sabre, which he informed me had been presented
by Mahemet Ali, while at Alexandria in Egypt, and which he had received
together with one for himself, through the American Consul of that place.
"Commodore Elliott also informed
me that he had received these sabres subjected to the orders of the Navy
Department.
"The sabre which I received is a
plain one, of little value, and is still in my possession ready for any
disposition the Department may require."
[Annotated that the lieutenant is to be provided with a copy of the
regulation prohibiting the acceptance of such gifts.]
From
Purser Nathaniel Wilson, Boston, MA, 27 Oct 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant John Colhoun, Philadelphia, PA, 31 Oct 1838:
Apprises the new Secretary of the Navy
of his existing complaint against Commodore Elliott, wishing the subject be
addressed. [Annotation indicates the
Secretary already had accepted the Commodore's explanations.]
Roll 119, Vol 1 (November 1‑ 30, 1838)
From
Sailmaker A. B. Pees, Norfolk, VA, 1 Nov 1838:
Reiterates his request for orders to
CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Edward H. Burnet, Boston Navy Yard, 5 Nov 1838;
Requests orders to OHIO or
CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant E. L. Handy, Baltimore, MD, 5 Nov 1838:
Awaiting orders to CONSTITUTION he was
told to expect. [No.]
From
Assistant Surgeon Samuel Jackson, Jr., Philadelphia, PA, 5 Nov 1838:
Renews his request for orders to
CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Lieutenant Joseph Lanman, Washington, DC, 12 Nov 1838:
Says he went to the Mediterranean Sea
at his own expense, and in Oct 1837 reported to Commodore Elliott, and
subsequently served in both CONSTITUTION and UNITED STATES. Again requests orders to CONSTITUTION
(apparently thinking she will return to that sea). [No.]
From
Midshipman A. C. Rhind, New York, NY, 12 Nov 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant John Kells, Philadelphia, PA, 13 Nov 1838:
Requests orders as 1st Lieutenant of
CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Acting Midshipman Charles W. Hayes, USS CONCORD, 15 Nov 1838:
Requests orders to OHIO or
CONSTITUTION. [Not to CONSTITUTION.]
From
Lieutenant T. D. Shaw, Philadelphia, PA, 16 Nov 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
P. G. Clark, Cheshire, CT, 17 Nov 1838:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION. [Not in Register.]
From
Midshipman John S. Maury, Boston Navy Yard, 19 Nov 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes, in 1839.]
From
Midshipman Silas Bent, New York, NY, 20 Nov 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Lieutenant J. H. Little, Baltimore, MD, 20 Nov 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Lardner Gibbon, Holmesburg, PA, 23 Nov 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman H. H. Harrison, Carysbrooke, ?, 23 Nov 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Assistant Surgeon George Maulsby, Philadelphia, PA, 24 Nov 1838:
Requests
orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Crillon Barton, 24 Nov 1838:
"On the eve of the expected
arrival of the frigate Constitution from the Mediterranean, I addressed a
letter to the Honble the Secty of the Navy, (your predecessor) preferring a
complaint in the manner pointed out by Law, against Commd Jesse D. Elliott for
certain inhuman, unofficerlike and illegal conduct to me ‑ (jeopardizing
my life and, at least, hazarding the loss of a hurt limb‑) Being under his command and control, at the
time, I was necessarily, from my condition the passive victim of such
treatment.‑‑ The result of
this course on the part of the said Commd Jesse D. Elliott was, intense agony
at the time, and much and long suffering after ‑‑ as well as being
left in a foreign country for nine months wholly without pay or subsistence, or
the means of paying for medical and surgical attendance; and completely
dependent on the succor, support and sympathy of utter Strangers. Without the good fortune of having met with
an American family who, (in all honor to all feelings and conduct honorable to
human nature) for this long period extended to me, untiring and without
abatement, this succor, support and sympathy, and furnished me the means of
returning to my country ‑‑ what my condition would have been is
easily imagined.‑‑ "The complaint to which I have just alluded, was made to the Department, with the settled aim and object of obtaining such redress as a Court Martial should give me; by awarding due and legal punishment for the offence complained of.‑‑ Though of humble rank in the service, I felt, and still feel, a well grounded confidence ‑ that on this account I would not be debarred from my rights and immunities as an officer and an American Citizen: Rights and immunities dear to freemen in themselves, and guaranteed to even the youngest and most humble officer in the Navy, as well as to those above him in grade and importance, by the Acts of Congress for the government of the Navy, and by the usages and immemorial customs of our Naval service. Since the return of the frigate Constitution I have to add my former complaint of injuries received from Commd Jesse D. Elliott (now reiterated to you as successor to the Honble the Secty of the Navy to whom they were made) an additional one, for support of which I desire to cite Lieut Oscar Bullus as witness, viz, that the said Commd Jesse D. Elliott, did falsely represent to said Lieut Bullus, the occurrence of the affair in question, giving him a perverted and garbled statement of the incidents which could not be denied: and did declare falsehoods, knowing them to be such, to Lieut Bullus concerning myself and his (Commd Jesse D. Elliott's) own conduct ‑‑ and did perpetrate Lieut Bullus, either by express request, or by a comic tantamount to this, to publish in the 'Times' daily paper of New York, of July 26th 1836, an entirely false statement of the affair and of my own conduct ‑ highly injurious to my Character and honor; and also to give his (Lieut Bullus') name to the editor of said paper as authority; and that in consequence of such authority further injurious editorial remarks concerning me were made in the same daily paper of August 20th 1836, all of which Lieut. Bullus did by dates August 23rd and September 10th 1838 acknowledge to be erroneous.‑‑ I therefore charge Commd Jesse D. Elliott in addition to my complaint lodged with the Department on the 25th day of June 1838, with the following specification bearing on the charge of 'conduct unbecoming and officer and a gentlemen' viz, that he did by false representations made (knowing them to be so) to an officer under his command in his ship, on his pledge of honor to their truth implied or declared, cause or induce Lieut Bullus to publish with his name given as authority injurious statements, implicating my honor and standing in the daily paper of New York the 'Times' of July 26th and August 20th 1836, severally.‑‑
"I beg leave therefore to seize
this time most respectfully and earnestly to solicit for the several
communications heretofore and now made to the Navy Department your present
attention. As guardian of the rights and immunities of officers of the Navy,
and as the legitimate channel through which to seek redress for my grievances,
I now address you, and in the fullest confidence express the hope, that you
will see cause to order a Court Martial to investigate and decide upon them.‑
"I further respectfully ask that
you will from the several communications made to the Department on this
subject, cause to be drawn up in legal manner, such charges and specifications
as those several statements set forth ‑ to the end that, I may not be
deprived of redress by reason of any informality which inadvertance or
unacquaintance with the required legal mode, might beget. By the arrival of the frigate United States
all the witnesses necessary to establish my complaint are now returned. I shall therefore be much obliged if you will
inform me in what way I am to proceed in bringing their names before you."
"P.
S. Annexed I transmit copies of a
correspondence with Lieut Bullus, and the publications alluded to as well as
the papers themselves, also an extract of a letter from Passd Midn
Stellwagen. CCB"
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1838)
From
Midshipman John H. Madison, Washington, DC, 3 Dec 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
R. B. Banister, Portsmouth, ?, 5 Dec 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or
MACEDONIAN. [Not in Register.]
From
Purser McKean Buchanan, Philadelphia, PA, 6 Dec 1838:
Understands CONSTITUTION is now
destined for the Pacific and that Captain William Bolton is to command
her. Requests orders to the ship. [Yes.]
From
Midshipman Edward A. Barnet, Easton, PA, 8 Dec 1838:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or ST
LOUIS. [No.]
From
Lieutenant S. Barron, Norfolk, VA, 13 Dec 1838:
"...I have recently returned from
sea as the 1st Lieutenant of the Frigate Constitution..."
Roll 120, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1839)
From
Purser G. C. Cooper, Washington, DC, 8 Jan 1839:
Has learned from Commodore Alexander
B. Claxton [sic] that Purser Henry Etting, who has been ordered to
CONSTITUTION, may not be able to return from Pensacola in time; requests orders
in his stead. [No.]
From
Gunner Daniel Kelley, Gosport, VA, 9 Jan 1839:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Assistant Surgeon Charles D. Maxwell, Philadelphia, PA, 14 Jan 1839:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Purser McKean Buchanan, Philadelphia, PA, 21 Jan 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman John H. M. Madison, Norfolk, VA, 22 Jan 1839:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION
instead of BRANDYWINE. [Yes.]
From
Sailmaker A. B. Pees, Gosport Navy Yard, 24 Jan 1839:
Reports
aboard CONSTITUTION. [Not in Register.]
From
Assistant Surgeon Charles D. Maxwell, Marietta, PA, 24 Jan 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Boatswain Robert Whittaker, New York, NY, 25 Jan 1839:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman George M. McCreery, Norfolk, VA, 26 Jan 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Surgeon Mordecai Morgan, Philadelphia, PA, 26 Jan 1839:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Withdrawn 28 Jan.]
From
Surgeon Thomas Dillard, Philadelphia, PA, 28 Jan 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Assistant Surgeon Samuel Jackson, Philadelphia, PA, 29 Jan 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1839)
From
Lieutenant W. H. Kennon, Norwood, MA?, 2 Feb 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Hambleton F. Porter, USS COLUMBUS, 7 Feb 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant Francis S. Haggerty, Philadelphia, PA, 7 Feb 1839:
Requests revocation of his orders to
CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Lardner Gibbon, Holmesburg, ?, 16 Feb 1839:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From Captain Daniel Turner to Purser Banjamin
J. Cahoone, 17 Jan 1839, and enclosure in Cahoone's letter to SecNav, 19 Feb
1839:
"...I know that Commodore Claxton
is determned to leave the selection of such as officer [as Purser] entirely at
the decision of the Dept. deeming it improper to make suggestion, or to
interfere in behalf of any one..."
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Crillon Barton, Philadelphia, PA, 25 Feb 1839:
Notes that among documents sent to
Congress concerning his complaint, a number of those he forwarded to the
Secretary in the past were not included.
Asks if those documents can now be found in the departmental files. [Annotated: "The papers are on
file."]
Roll 121 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1839)
From
Lieutenant R. A. Jones, Baltimore, MD, 6 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Sailing Master James Ferguson, Naval Asylum, 7 Mar 1839:
Has filed a claim for pilotage fees
for having guided CONSTITUTION "up and down the English Channel" in
1835. Commodore Elliott had "declined
the services of regular pilots."
Says he is motivated to this action by the fact that the pay bill
concerning Sailing Masters never was taken up by the Congress. [Not accepted.]
From
Lieutenant G .W. Hollins, Washington, DC, 8 Mar 1839:
Has heard that Lieutenant [Franklin]
Buchanan has received orders to CONSTITUTION.
Requests orders to succeed him in command of the receiving vessel at
Baltimore.
From
Gunner G. Newman, Gosport Navy Yard, 15 Mar 1839:
Says he has reported for duty in
CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Crillon Barton, 18 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of notice that a
court of inquiry will be called in Commodore Elliott's case. Says he published his version of events only
after Commodore Elliott had done so, and after he had given up hope of a
positive response from the Department.
Lists as witness on his side Lieutenant Egbert, Passed Midshipmen James
W. Cook, Charles Steedman, Francis
Haggerty, Midshipman Charles E. Fleming, Charles Wager, "&c."
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Crillon Barton, Philadelphia, PA, 26 Mar 1839:
Forwards two more documents for the
Elliott case.
From
Lieutenant W. Smith, St. Louis, MO, 26 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Assistant Surgeon V. L. Godon, Philadelphia, PA, 27 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Passed Midshipman William S. Ringgold, Philadelphia, PA, 27 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Lieutenant Henry Pinkney, Baltimore, MD, 27 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Midshipman Henry N. T. Arnold, Perth Amboy, NJ, 27 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant Frank Ellery, New York, NY, 28 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Assistant Surgeon D. C. McLeod, Portsmouth Naval Hospital (VA), 28 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Lieutenant C. G. Hunter, Bordentown, NJ, 28 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Lieutenant Henry A. Steele, Wilmington, DE, 28 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Surgeon George Clymer, Jr., Morrisville, PA, 28 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Sailing Master Samuel C. Hixon, Boston Navy Yard, 29 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Purser D. M. Thornton, West Park, NJ?, 29 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Lieutenant Oscar Bullus, New York, NY, 30 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders
"only received this day."
From
Surgeon Solomon Sharp, Wilmington, DE, 30 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Lieutenant J. Crowninshield, Boston Navy Yard, 30 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Lieutenant John B. Montgomery, USS COLUMBUS, 31 Mar 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Purser John N. Hambleton, St. Michael's, MD, 1 Apr 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to be a
witness in the Elliott case.
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Crillon Barton, Philadelphia, PA, 3 Apr 1839:
Repeats his assertion that he
published only because "Captain" Elliott already had published
scurrilous remarks about him. "I
will not be an officer in the Navy of doubtful claims to officer like conduct." Important
witnesses: Commander Boerum, Purser Jno Hambleton, D. Fauntleroy,
Surgeons Bailey Washington, Daniel Egbert, Asst Surgeons Robt Woodworth, V. L.
Godon, Lieuts G. F. Pearson, Zachs Johnson, Oscar Bullus, Benj J. Totten,
Ebenezer Ridgway, John Colhoun, James Watson, Bushrod W. Hunter, Passed Midn
James W. Cook, Wm T. Muse, Wm S. Ringgold, Fras Haggerty, Midn Charles E.
Fleming and Charles Wager, and Lieut Jabez Rich of the Marines.
From
Lieutenant Henry A. Steele, Wilmington, DE, 4 Apr 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Lieutenant P. Drayton, Philadelphia, PA, 13 Apr 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Assistant Surgeon Robert Woodworth, USS HUDSON, 15 Apr 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to report on
22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott Case.
From
Lieutenant G. F. Pearson, Portsmouth Navy Yard (NH), 15 Apr 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report on 22 Apr as a witness in the Elliott case.
From
Lieutenant C. G. Hunter, Philadelphia, PA, 24 Apr 1839:
Requests the following officers be
ordered to the Elliott court of inquiry: Lieutenants Andrew A. Harwood and W.
J. A. Robinson; Passed Midshipmen D. F. Dulany and W. C. Craney; and Midshipman
Hubley Jenkins.
From
Lieutenant C. G. Hunter, Philadelphia, PA, 25 Apr 1839:
Requests additional witnesses:
Lieutenant George Hurst and Passed Midshipman J. Humphreys. Also requests that Messrs Lewis Cass, Jr.,
and Henry Ledyard be requested to appear.
From
Lieutenant John Colhoun, Philadelphia, PA, 25 Apr 1839:
Also requests that Lieutenant Andrew
Harwood be ordered to the court of inquiry as he was First Lieutenant of
CONSTITUTION at the time.
From
Lieutenant Franklin Buchanan, Baltimore, MD, 29 Apr 1839:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to be
flag lieutenant in CONSTITUTION.
Roll 122 (May 1 ‑ June 29, 1839)
From
Passed Midshipman Charles Crillon Barton, Philadelphia, PA, 7 May 1839:
Requests that his letter of 24 Nov
1838 and its enclosed documents be made available to the court, together with
two other letters written by Dr. Egbert on the subject, since he will not be in
attendance.
From
Purser McKean Buchanan, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 May 1839:
Ship at New York.
From
Purser John N. Hambleton, St. Michael's, MD, 28 May 1839:
Forwards the original subscription
list for the plate presented Commodore Elliott by the crew. [List not included.]
Roll 123, Vol 1 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1839)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1839)
NOTHING
Roll 124, Vol 1 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1839)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1839)
NOTHING
Roll 125, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1839)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1839)
NOTHING
Roll 126, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1840)
From
Purser McKean Buchanan, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Jan 1840:
In view of Commodore Claxton's letter
about the sale, seizure and condemnation of silk handkerchiefs, believes he
should provide an explanation.
"The hdkfs in question were issued
by my Steward, without my knowledge or approbation,when, on 15th Dec, I was
apprised of the issue, I ordered that it should not be repeated, as I never
intended that it should be made."
No regulations of the service or of the ship were violated by the Steward's
action. The Commodore purports that
"I am a Smuggler, and have caused the Government of Peru to be defrauded
of its revenue." That is untrue. "But Sir is it not a notorious fact that
the Government of Peru is every year defrauded of thousands of dollars of its
lawful revenue by the Commanders of our National vessels, who for a percentage
allow plata pina [sic] and money to be smuggled off to their Ships at night,
oftentimes in their own boats? Did not
one of the Captains in this Squadron confess to Commodore Claxton that he had
smuggled money to his Ship? Has he been
punished? no [sic] Sir." "...I had served in four Squadrons on
this Coast" and "I issued articles 'without requisitions, and...the
priviledge [sic] was allowed to the other Pursers in the Squadron, so i was
informed." "...I cannot but
express my surprise that Commre Claxton, never 'before heard of articles being
issued to a crew, even, when out of debt, without the indispensable formality
of a requisition'."
Commodore Claxton has caused much pain
by his letter of the 5th. Captain
Turner's thorough investigation cleared Buchanan, noting that is accounts were
all in order. Had Commodore Claxton
announced his policy at the outset of the cruise, this wouldn't have happened.
Includes letters from the following
officers of the ship attesting to his performance of duties: Lieutenants E. W.
Carpender, Franklin Buchanan, William H. Kennon, John Graham, William Smith;
Surgeon Thomas Dillard; Lieutenant J. C. Rich, USMC; Acting Master James E.
Brown; Assistant Surgeons C. Maxwell and Samuel Jackson; Passed Midshipmen L.C.
Sartori, M. Hunt, F. S. Haggerty, T. M. Brasher; Midshipmen R. T. Renshaw,
George Cooper, John H. Madison, Charles W. Hayes, and H. H. Harrison, as well
as those in ST LOUIS.
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1840)
From
Purser McKean Buchanan, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Feb 1840:
Forwards his letter of the 7th, which
previously had been passed to Commodore Claxton for forwarding. That officers had returned the correspondence
with the note "Let the whole go."
Nonetheless, wishes it a matter of record. "I beg leave to refer you to my brother
[Flag] Lieut. F. Buchanan for many particulars of the unpleasant occurrences
which have taken place in this Ship and in the Squadron." [Annotated to "return all."]
From
Purser McKean Buchanan, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Feb 1840:
With this cover letter, Buchanan
forwards 16 letters that passed among himself, Captain Daniel Turner, and
Commodore Alexander Claxton on the subject of the issuance of slops and private
stores. Although the regulations of the
service gave precedence to the issuance of slops of government purchase over
the private stores of a purser, in practice pursers generally were allowed to
offer their usually finer quality, and more expensive, private stores
first. It seems it was assumed the
Commodore would follow this practice when he failed to react to Buchanan's
purchases prior to sailing, but once on station he suddenly became a holy
terror about following regulations both in these sales and in the matter of the
transportation of specie in ships of the squadron. This series of letters is the argument over
his position and the determination of who is to bear the liability for losses
incurred through the sale of the private stores, normally allowed a 25% profit,
as slops, at 10%, as dictated by Claxton.
Too, he demanded, and received from Buchanan, the name of one of his
captains {McKeever in FALMOUTH} who had admitted to excessive trafficking in
specie to the purser. [That there had
been gross abuses in these areas in the Pacific Squadron is certain, but
brought the business out in the open and resulted in official steps being taken
to curb them. The present situation was
exacerbated by the Commodore's inconsistent revelation of his views on the one
hand, and the fact that this was Buchanan's fourth tour in the squadron on the
other.]
Roll 127, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1840)
From
Passed Midshipman H. Gansevoort, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Mar 1839:
Requested permission to return to the
US. Originally a member of the Exploring
Expedition, poor health had led him to ask to go home. He was exchanged with an officer then in
FALMOUTH, as that ship was expected to return "soon." When CONSTITUTION arrived, Commodore Claxton
negated the arrangement by ordering him to the frigate. Requests the Secretary's intercession.
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1840)
From
Midshipman Frederick J. Sperry, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Apr 1840:
Because his letters were reaching home
irregularly, thought sending them via the Secretary might improve delivery.
From
Midshipman W. C. Bolton, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Apr 1840:
Admit to having incurred debts during
previous service in the Mediterranean and intend liquidating them.
Roll 128, Vol 1 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1840)
From
Lieutenant B. W. Hunter, Tower Hill, VA, 10 May 1840:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
court martial of Commodore Jesse Duncan Elliott.
Vol 2 (June 1‑ 30, 1840)
NOTHING
Roll 129, Vol 1 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1840)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1840)
NOTHING
Roll 130 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1840)
NOTHING
Roll 131, Vol 1 (October 1 ‑ 15, 1840)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (October 16 ‑ 31, 1840)
NOTHING
Roll 132, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1840)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1840)
From
Lieutenant Franklin Buchanan, Washington, DC, 9 Jan 1841:
"The regulations of the service
require that, previously to issuing slops &c to the men on board our public
vessels, the Purser shall obtain the authority, either written or verbal, of
the commander of the vessel for so doing.
"The fact, being admitted, that
the Purser's Steward did serve out certain silk handkerchiefs to a portion of
the crew of the frigate Constitution without a previous requisition or the
order or approval of the Commodore, or the Commander of the ship, thereby violating
the regulations of the service which prescribe the kind and quantity of the
articles which may be furnished to the men and which require such requisition
or order or approval of the Commander of the ship;‑ that the Steward was
selected by Purser Buchanan himself and was subject to such rules for his
government as he might think proper to prescribe, and that even after the
improper and unauthorized act of the Steward in issuing the silk handkerchiefs,
Purser Buchanan expressed to Commo Claxton his perfect confidence in his
Steward and his desire that, notwithstanding the order of Commo Claxton, he
should still be permitted to entrust the keys of the Storeroom to him, renders, in the opinion of the
Department, Purser Buchanan justly responsible for the act of his Steward in
the instance referred to, and it therefore declines making the alteration in
the general order of the 20th of March 1840, as suggested by you."
Roll 133, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1841)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1841)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1841)
NOTHING
Roll 134, Vol 1 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1841)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1841)
NOTHING
Roll 135 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1841)
NOTHING
Roll 136
(July 1 ‑31, 1841)
NOTHING
Roll
137 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1841)
NOTHING
Roll 138 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1841)
NOTHING
Roll 139 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1841)
From
Midshipman Thomas Loundes Kinloch, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Oct 1841:
Requests orders to the Naval School at
the Naval Asylum, Philadelphia.
[Granted.]
From
Midshipman Silas Bent, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Oct 1841:
Requests orders to the Naval School at
the Naval Asylum, Philadelphia.
[Granted.]
From
Midshipman Charles R. Smith, USS CONSTITUTION, 31 Oct 1841:
Requests orders to the Naval School at
the Naval Asylum, Philadelphia. [Granted.]
Roll 140
(November 1 ‑ 30, 1841)
From
Acting Midshipman Y. Philipse Wheelock, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Nov 1841:
On passage from USS MARION on the
Brazil Station, wishes to withdraw his resignation. [Annotated that it has not yet reached the Department.]
From
Lieutenant T. D. Shaw, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Nov 1841:
Requests duty at either Philadelphia
or Baltimore.
From
Lieutenant W. Smith, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Nov 1841:
Acknowledges receipt of leave of
absence.
From
Sailmaker A. B. Pees, Portsmouth, VA, 17 Nov 1841:
Acknowledges receipt of leave of
absence.
From
Midshipman Jacob F. Sperry, Washington, DC, 21 Nov 1841:
Requests permission to withdraw his
resignation. [No, because of charges
brought against him for lying and stealing in CONSTITUTION.]
Roll 141 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1841)
NOTHING
Roll 142, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1842)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1842)
NOTHING
Roll 143, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1842)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1842)
From
Purser John N. Hambleton, St. Michael's, MD, 2 Apr 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. Encloses a letter from Captain E. R. Shubrick
stating he has preparatory orders to command her, and would like to have
Hambleton as his purser.
From
Lieutenant R. B. Pegram, USS PENNSYLVANIA, 4 Apr 1842:
Requests detachment from PENNSYLVANIA,
a month's leave, and orders to COLUMBUS, CONGRESS, or CONSTITUTION. [Done, with orders to the last.]
From
Acting Midshipman Nathaniel T. West, USS GRAMPUS, 4 Apr 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Midshipman Hunter Davidson, USS PENNSYLVANIA, 6 Apr 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Midshipman Archibald H. Waring, USS PENNSYLVANIA, 13 Apr 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Acting Midshipman William W. Wilkinson, USS PENNSYLVANIA, 17 Apr 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Already done.]
From Acting Midshipman Stanwix Gansevoort, USS
NORTH CAROLINA, 18 Apr 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Acting MIdshipman Gideon D. Chenoweth, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 18 Apr 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Changed his request to COLUMBUS on 22 Apr;
it was honored.]
From
Lieutenant Bushrod W. Hunter, Littleton, VA, 18 Apr 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Purser John A. Bates, Portsmouth, NH, 22 Apr 1842:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION dated 18 Apr.
Roll
144, Vol 1 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1842)
From
Surgeon George Blacknall, Norfolk, VA, 2 May 1842:
Reported for duty in CONSTITUTION this
date.
From
Acting Midshipman Stanwix Gansevoort to SecNav, 2 May 1842:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant Bushrod W. Hunter, Littleton, VA, 2 May 1842:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Benjamin B. Wright, USS ONTARIO, 6 May 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION,
which, he understands, will go to the Mediterranean. [No.]
From
Purser John A. Bates, Norfolk Navy Yard, 7 May 1842:
Requests leave of absence to remain
with his family until needed in the ship.
[Allowed 15 days.]
From
Lieutenant George Mason Hooe, USS COLUMBIA, 12 May 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Purser D. M. Thornton, USS COLUMBIA, 20 May 1842:
If Captain Parker is transferred to
CONSTITUTION, would like to go with him.
[Done.]
From
Lieutenant Charles Thomas, USS COLUMBIA, 21 My 1842:
If Captain Parker is transferred to
CONSTITUTION, would like to go with him.
[Done.]
From
Pursers John A. Bates and D. M. Thornton, 23 May 1842:
Request permission to exchange duty
assignments: Bates to COLUMBIA and Thornton to CONSTITUTION. [Done; Bates never reported to the latter.]
From
Lieutenant Charles Thomas, USS COLUMBIA, 6 Jun 1842:
Reports that Lieutenant Cutting in CONSTITUTION
is willing to exchange. [Approved; at
his own expense.]
From
Acting Midshipman Wingate Pillsbury, USS COLUMBIA, 7 Jun 1842:
Wishes to exchange with Midshipman
George Harrison Hall in CONSTITUTION.
[No.]
From
Acting MIdshipman A. T. Byrens, USS WARREN, 13 Jun 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Acting Midshipman George W. Young, USS LEVANT, 18 Jun 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Lieutenant Charles Thomas, Baltimore, MD, 20 Jun 1842:
Acknowledges orders to CONSTITUTION at
his own expense.
From
Midshipman John F. Maury, USS PENNSYLVANIA, 24 Jun 1842:
Reports having received orders to
CONSTITUTION while attached to USS MISSISSIPPI.
Purser Bryan of that ship passed his pay record to Purser Bates, who had
been transferred from CONSTITUTION to COLUMBIA by the time he reported. Requests a new pay record.
From
Acting Midshipman D. Clinton Hugunin, USS LEVANT, 24 Jun 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From
Passed Midshipman Thomas M. Crossan, Pittsburg, PA, 27 Jun 1842:
Requests orders as Sailing Master of
CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
Roll 145 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1842)
From
Midshipman John H. Madison, Norfolk, VA, 2 Jul 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman John S. Neville, USS CONSTITUTION, 2 Jul 1842:
Is willing to permit Midshipman
Crossan to succeed him if he can have orders to the rendezvous at New York,
otherwise he would prefer to remain in the ship. [Received desired orders.]
From
Midshipman Edward Barrett, Naval Hospital, Portsmouth, [VA?], 3 Jul 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Acting Midshipman George W. Young, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Jul 1842:
Has reported for duty.
From
Acting Midshipman W. Withers Wilkinson, USS PENNSYLVANIA, 22 Jul 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or
COLUMBUS. [The latter.]
From
Midshipman D. Clinton Hugunin, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Jul 1842:
Requests orders to COLUMBUS.
From
Acting Midshipman William H. Weaver, Naval Hospital, Portsmouth, VA, 28 Jul
1842:
Requests orders from CONSTITUTION to
USS MARION.
From
Acting Midshipman James Heron, Naval Hospital, Portsmouth, VA, 29 Jul 1842:
Wishes to remain attached to
CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
Roll 146
(August 1 ‑ 31, 1842)
From
Professor of Mathematics Joseph T. Huston, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Aug 1842:
Requests 1 month's leave. [Done.]
From
Sailmaker William Bennett, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Aug 1842:
Requests detachment due to
"family affliction." Reports
Sailmaker George Parker is willing to replace him. [Detached 31 Aug; Parker ordered in.]
From
Lieutenant Charles W. Chauncey, USS CONSTITUTION, to Captain E. Pendleton
Kennedy, Port Captain, Norfolk, VA, 27 Aug 1842:
Reports that Lieutenant George M. Hooe
has never reported. All other
lieutenants "joined her early in May." Considers another lieutenant necessary.
Roll 147 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1842)
From
Passed Midshipman James W. Ripley, USS OHIO, 2 Sep 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Sailmaker George Parker, Portsmouth, VA, 5 Sep 1842:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant George Mason Hooe, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Sep 1842:
Has been told by Lieutenant Charles
Chauncey, the 1st Lieutenant, of that officer's request for orders to the East
Indies Squadron. Wishes to be detailed
as Chauncey's successor in CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant George Mason Hooe, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Sep 1842 [2nd ltr]:
Explains his delay in reporting was to
due the severe illness of his child.
From Lieutenant Charles W. Chauncey, USS CONSTITUTION, 9
Sep 1842:
Requests
orders to "the first frigate ordered to the East Indies" or command
of one of the apprentice training ships.
Is happy in CONSTITUTION, but wishes duty in an area he has never been
or of a type in which he takes "a great interest" (apprentice
training). ["Noted."]
From
Lieutenant Charles W. Chauncey, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Sep 1842:
With regard to Landsman Thomas Tanner,
he was received from USS PENNSYLVANIA "last June" and is still $14 in
debt. (Tanner wants a discharge.)
From
Lieutenant Charles Thomas, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Sep 1842:
Requests 1 month's leave of
absence. [No.]
Roll 148, Vol 1 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1842)
From
A. O. Dayton, USS NORTH CAROLINA, 22 Sep 1842:
Notes he served in CONSTITUTION during
her "late cruize" in the Pacific Squadron as Professor of
Mathematics, but under an irregular appointment. Wishes to receive the pay due the
position. [Dayton not in Register; claim
disallowed.]
From
Lieutenant George Mason Hooe, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Oct 1842:
Proposes he be given command of USS
WAVE or USS PHOENIX, crewed by about 8 Passed Midshipmen/Midshipmen, about 40
apprentices, and 2 each of seamen, ordinary seamen, and landsmen, he will enter
and explore every "harbor, river, bay, and inlet" from Maine to
Louisiana, in the process making pilots for those waters of the embarked
midshipmen and apprentices. [Annotated:
"the means of the Department do not admit of it."]
From
Assistant Surgeon Marius Duvall, USS WAVE, 21 Oct 1842:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION as she
is in need of one of his rank. [Done.]
From
Lieutenant George Mason Hooe, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Oct 1842:
Notes he was ordered to CONSTITUTION
from COLUMBIA "in the spring of this year." Seeks correction to what he believes is an
error in accounting his pay.
Vol 2 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1842)
From Lieutenant W. T. Muse, Fairfax, VA, 19
Nov 1842:
On leave from CONSTITUTION, he had
been about to return "yesterday" when he received a letter from the
1st Lieutenant saying the ship would sail on 10 Nov for a 30 day period. Requests continuation on leave until she
returns. [Done.]
Roll 149 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1842)
From
Lieutenants Bushrod W. Hunter and Charles Thomas, and Chaplain George Jones, 13
Dec 1842:
Protests that an imputation in a
letter from the Chief, Bureau of Provisions and Clothing, that values assigned
to Purser Thornton's private stores [apparently in assessing losses caused by
the recently experienced flooding for the purpose of a damage claim] were
excessive, stating that they were "governed by the original bills."
From
Midshipman William T. Burwell, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Dec 1842:
Wishes orders "to any Sea going
Ship," or a month's leave. [Granted
2 weeks' leave.]
From
Midshipman Allan McLane, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Dec 1842:
Requests 2 weeks' leave. [Granted.]
From
Assistant Surgeon Marius Duvall, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Dec 1842:
Requests an extension of the 1 week
leave granted by Captain Parker to 1 month.
[Granted.]
From
Lieutenant George Mason Hooe, Fredericksburg, VA, 22 Dec 1842:
Requests extension of a 1 week leave
granted him by Commodore Kennedy until about 1 Apr in order to settle his
father's estate. [Leave extended until
February when "the Brandywine shall be ready to receive"
CONSTITUTION's crew.]
From Lieutenant Charles W. Chauncey, USS CONSTITUTION, 29
Dec 1842:
Renews
his 9 Sep request for orders to sea.
[No.]
Roll 150, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1843)
From Lieutenant R. B. Pegram, USS
CONSTITUTION, 21 Jan 1843:
Requests 1 months' leave. [15 days granted.]
From
Lieutenant Bushrod W. Hunter, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Jan 1843:
If BRANDYWINE is going to the East
Indies, requests transfer to MACEDONIAN, as he has repeatedly suffered from
dysentery, a common complaint in the East Indies. [Detached awaiting orders.]
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1843)
From
Midshipman John Stuart, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Feb 1843:
Has more than 3 years sea service, and
since BRANDYWINE is scheduled for a foreign cruise, requests orders to USS
NORTH CAROLINA so he will be able to take his promotional exam on time. [Done.]
From
Professor of Mathematics Joseph Huston, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Feb 1843:
Requests shore duty, preferably
Boston. [Relieved.]
From
Sailmaker George Parker, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Feb 1843:
Requests orders rather than transfer
to BRANDYWINE.
Roll 151 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1843)
From
Lieutenant George R. Gray, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Mar 1843:
Requests 3 months' leave, then orders
to sea service.
Roll 152 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1843)
From
Lieutenant George R. Gray, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Apr 1843:
Repeats his request of 20 Mar. [Leave granted.]
From
Midshipman [?] McLauchan [McLenahan?], USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Apr 1843:
Requests orders to USS ST LOUIS. [No; not in Register.]
Roll 153 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1843)
From Lieutenant Gabriel Galt Williamson, USS
CONSTITUTION, 8 May 1843:
Requests 2 months' leave. [Granted.]
Roll 154, Vol 1 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1843)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1843)
NOTHING
Roll 155 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1843)
NOTHING
Roll 156 (Septemmber 1 ‑ 30, 1843)
From
Passed Midshipman P. U. Murphy, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Sep 1843:
Requests orders as Master of USS
PENNSYLVANIA or CONSTITUTION. [Ordered
as Master of the Ordinary.]
Roll 157 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1843)
NOTHING
Roll
158, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1843)
From
Professor of Mathematics E. Estabrook, Brooklyn, NY, 2 Nov 1843:
Acknowledges receipt of his
appointment as Professor of Mathematics.
[Ordered to CONSTITUTION 13 Nov.]
From Lieutenant Amasa Paine, Boston, MA, 10 Nov 1843:
Acknowledges
receipt of orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Purser Thomas Marston Taylor, USS OHIO, 13 Nov 1843:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION; will detach on 30 Nov.
From
Lieutenant John B. Dale, Boston, MA, 18 Nov 1843:
Understanding that CONSTITUTION is to
go to the Mediteranean under Captain Percival, requests orders to her. Has never served in that area, nor has he
ever had duty on a ship larger than a sloop on coast survey.
From
Gunner George Sirian, Washington, DC, 21 Nov 1843:
Requests that his name be entered on
the Navy Register with the date of his appointment as Gunner, 21 Apr 1837,
rather than the date of his warrant, 17 Jun 1841. [No.]
From
Lieutenant James Alden, Boston Navy Yard, 27 Nov 1843:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman George B. Douglass, Pallatin, TN, 29 Nov 1843:
Requests orders to a frigate. [Ordered to CONSTITUTION 1 Dec.]
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1843)
From
Lieutenant John B. Dale, Boston, MA, 12 Dec 1843:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
Roll 159, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1844)
From
Carpenter John Southwick, Washington, DC, 9 Jan 1844:
States he reported on board
CONSTITUTION on 25 Nov 1843. As to the condition of the ship, "...Her
frame is sound... I have not seen a
timber, I would have taken out, unless the ship was to have all her wales, and
sides stripped, for a thorough repair, and not more than three or four
then. The outboard planking, from the
wales down to the keel, are, as far as I have been able to ascertain, free from
rot. The Decks are good, and will last a
three year cruise." [Annotated:
"Let it be done."]
From
Gunner Adrian A. Peterson, Gosport Navy Yard, 12 Jan 1844:
States he reported for duty in
CONSTITUTION only to be told that another Gunner had been appointed to the ship
in Nov 1843. That being so, requests
orders back to the Boston Navy Yard.
[Ordered to the Ordinary at Boston 22 Jan.]
From
Surgeon David Egbert, Philadelphia, PA, 22 Jan 1844:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION dated 20 Jan.
From
Assistant Surgeon R. McSherry, Jr., Martinsburg, VA, 23 Jan 1844:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman W. F. Davidson, Petersburg, VA, 24 Jan 1844:
Awaiting orders for any service. [Ordered to CONSTITUTION 26 Jan, which he
acknowledged on 29 Jan.]
From
Lieutenant Fabius Stanly, Norfolk, VA, 27 Jan 1844:
Reported aboard CONSTITUTION
"this morning."
From Assistant Surgeon R. McSherry, Jr., Norfolk, VA, 30 Jan 184
Reported for duty in CONSTITUTION
"this day."
From
Midshipman W. F. Davidson, Petersburg, VA, 31 Jan 1844:
Ice has delayed his travel; will
proceed as soon as possible.
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 29, 1844)
From
Surgeon Daniel Egbert, Norfolk, VA, 3 Feb 1844:
Reported to CONSTITUTION "to
day."
From
Midshipman A. F. Warley, USS RARITAN, 5 Feb 1844:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION or any
other vessel going to sea. [Filed;
ordered to CONSTITUTION 21 Feb.]
From
Passed Midshipman R. A. Knapp, Erie, PA, 7 Feb 1844:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION dated 22 Jan, but is unwell at this time and unfit for sea
service. [Told he may delay reporting 3
weeks.]
From
Midshipman Colville Terrett, Norfolk, VA, 9 Feb 1844:
Reported to CONSTITUTION on 8 Feb.
From
Lieutenant James Alden, Boston Navy Yard, 13 Feb 1844:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION; requests permission to delay until 10 Mar. [Yes.]
From
Midshipman Lewis Beard, Washington, DC, 20 Feb 1844:
Requests orders from CONSTITUTION to
USS PLYMOUTH. [No.}
From Lieutenant Amasa Paine, USS CONSTITUTION,
22 Feb 1844:
Requests orders to command USS
PIONEER. [Yes, if vacancy occurs.]
From
Surgeon Daniel Egbert, Washington, DC, 23 Feb 1844:
Protests having been ordered from
CONSTITUTION "to a store Brig of 20 Men [PIONEER]," a post usually
assigned an Assistant Surgeon. [Revoked
26 Feb.]
From
Surgeon D. C. McLeod, New Orleans, LA, 26 Feb 1844:
Understanding that Surgeon Egbert
wishes to leave CONSTITUTION "on
account of ill health," asks for the assignment. [Annotated: "He has already been
ordered."]
From Passed Midshipman C. M. Morris, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Feb 1844:
Requests orders to USS PIONEER. ["Noted."]
Roll 160, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1844)
From
Passed Midshipman Henry A. Wise, Washington, DC, 1 Mar 1844:
Requests orders to the Boston
Rendezvous "on the expiration of my leave." [Done 7 Mar.]
From
Surgeon D. C. McLeod, New Orleans, LA, 1 Mar 1844:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION dated 19 Feb.
From
Midshipman A. F. Warley, Portsmouth, VA, 6 Mar 1844:
Reported to CONSTITUTION on 5 Mar.
From
Midshipman Joseph J. Cook, Newbern, NC, 7 Mar 1844:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done 14 Mar.]
From
Midshipman Lewis Beard, Norfolk, VA, 9 Mar 1844:
Reported for duty in CONSTITUTION this
date.
From
Lieutenant James Alden, Gosport Navy Yard, 12 Mar 1844:
Has reported for duty in CONSTITUTION.
From
Carpenter John Overman, USS VANDALIA, 13 Mar 1844:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION dated 22 Jan. In view of my
recent arrival in this ship, are they correct?
[Cancelled 15 Mar.]
From
Assistant Surgeon Marius Duvall, Annapolis, MD, 14 Mar 1844:
Detached from USS PHOENIX, requests
permission to remain on leave until the ship is ready for sea. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman R. A. Knapp, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Mar 1844:
Concerning a debt complaint received
against him in connection with his previous ship.
From
Midshipman Lewis Beard, USS CONSTITUTION, 19 Mar 1844:
He was delayed in reporting by
shortage of funds, having to wait for more from home before proceeding.
From
Midshipman Lewis Beard, Norfolk, VA, 23 Mar 1844:
Now says he was delayed because he
stopped in Washington to try and get transferred from CONSTITUTION to USS
PLYMOUTH. (Captain Percival's endorsement
notes that Beard was a week in Norfolk before reporting.)
From
Midshipman Cornelius Comegys, Norfolk, VA, 23 Mar 1844:
Has reported for duty in CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman Charles F. Collins, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Mar 1844:
Reported for duty on 18 Mar.
From
Midshipman Charles F. Collins, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Mar 1844:
Requests to be transferred either to
USS VANDALIA or USS LAWRENCE, both now in Norfolk. (Positively endorsed by Captain Percival
because he already has more midshipmen than wanted.) [Ordered to USS PIONEER 29 Mar.]
From
Lieutenant W. C. Chaplin, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Mar 1844:
Requests leave to visit his home. [Granted 30 Mar.]
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1844)
From
Midshipman Joseph J. Cook, Norfolk, VA, 1 Apr 1844:
Reported on board CONSTITUTION this
date.
From
Lieutenant Amasa Paine, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Apr 1844:
Requests orders to command USS
CONSORT, should the billet become open.
[No, CONSORT is to be stricken.]
From
Lieutenant Amasa Paine, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Apr 1844:
Withdraws request, saying personal
reasons behind it no longer exist.
From Lieutenant J. W. Cooke, USS CONSTITUTION,
14 Apr 1844:
Reports Midshipman Beard's
ungentlemanly reneging on a $50 loan he got in order to make the trip to the
ship, and subverting the Lieutenant's subsequent effort to have the debt
paid. Beard also borrowed more money
during his stop in Washington, also not yet repaid.
Roll 161 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1844)
From
Lieutenant W. C. Chaplin, USS CONSTITUTION, 11 May 1844:
Requests permission to allot $70/mo.
to his family. [Granted.]
From
Midshipman M. Patterson Jones, Prospect Hill, VA, 13 May 1844:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [So ordered 14 May.]
From
Lieutenant Fabius Stanly, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 May 1844:
Was informed by Captain Percival that
he is a supernumerary. If that is so,
wishes transfer. [Ordered to USS
PRINCETON 21 May.]
From
Lieutenant James Alden, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 May 1844:
Requests orders to USS PRINCETON. [No.]
From
Lieutenant Alexander Gibson, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 May 1844:
Requests permission to leave an
allotment of $80/mo. for his family.
[Granted.]
Roll 162, Vol 1 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1844)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1844)
NOTHING
Roll 163 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1844)
NOTHING
Roll 164 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1844)
NOTHING
Roll 165 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1844)
From
Passed Midshipman R. A. Knapp, USS UNITED STATES, 4 Oct 1844:
Reports his return from CONSTITUTION
as a passenger in this ship. Says
Captain Percival granted him condition because of a facial injury, and that the
captain had been totally satisfied with his conduct and performance. Admitted that he subsequently was found to
have been suffering from syphilitic rheumatism for two years in addition to the
unhealed facial wound from a past duel.
Requests orders. [Annotated:
"Noted."]
Roll 166, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1844)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1844
NOTHING
Roll 167 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1845)
NOTHING
Roll 168 (February 1 ‑ March 31, 1845)
NOTHING
Roll 169, Vol 1 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1845)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1845)
NOTHING
Roll 170, Vol 1 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1845)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1845)
NOTHING
Roll 171, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1845)
NOTHING
Vol
2 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1845)
NOTHING
Roll 172, Vol 1 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1845)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1845)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1845)
NOTHING
Roll 173, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1846)
NOTHING
Vol 2
(February 1 ‑ 28, 1846)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1846)
NOTHING
Vol 4 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1846)
NOTHING
Roll 174 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1846)
NOTHING
Roll 175, Vol 1 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1846)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1846)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1846)
NOTHING
Roll 176, Vol 1 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1846)
From Midshipman Thomas J. Miller, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Sep 1846:
Reports his return to the United
States.
From
Midshipman Thomas J. Miller, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Sep 1846:
"I am an orphan and have sisters
and brothers, one of the former is lame and will in part be dependent upon
myself for support. By the foulest kind
of machinations, one of the most disgraceful charges that could possibly be
summoned up, was laid against me, while suffering from a wound over the eye,
and other bodily injuries inflicted by a deserter, who was afterward condemned
to death, in the execution of my duty, leaving it therefore entirely out of my
power to shield myself from their slanderous charge." Requests an interview before the SecNav makes
any decision in his case. Has
certificates from eight men who were with him in SARANAC at the time. [Annotated: "Detach him with permission
to come to Washington."]
From
Purser T. M. Taylor, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Sep 1844:
Reports that Purser's Steward James
Heron also performed as Purser's Clerk throughout the voyage as no‑one
ever was shipped to fill that allowed billet at his regular pay of $18/mo. He has applied to be paid at the same rate as
a Purser's Assistant in sloops of war and brigs, who perform that combined
function, that is, $24/mo.
["Done."]
Vol 2 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1846)
From
Assistant Surgeon Richard McSherry, Jr., Martinsburg, VA, 8 Oct 1846:
Acknowledges receipt of his leave from
CONSTITUTION and reports his place of residence.
From
Lieutenant Amasa Paine, Providence, RI, 12 Oct 1846:
Acknowledges receipt of his 3 months
leave from CONSTITUTION and reports his place of residence.
Roll 177, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1846)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1846)
NOTHING
Roll 178, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1847)
From
Lieutenant G. W. Grant, Philadelphia, PA, 1 Jan 1847:
Reports end of his leave following
return of CONSTITUTION.
From Lieutenant W. C. Chaplin, Pittsburgh, PA,
2 Jan 1847:
Reports end of his leave following
return of CONSTITUTION. If his services
are not wanted for the Mexican War, he wishes to remain on leave.
From
Assistant Surgeon Richard McSherry, Jr., Martinsburg, VA, 3 Jan 1847:
Reports end of his leave; awaiting
orders.
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1847)
NOTHING
Roll 179, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1847)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1847)
NOTHING
Roll 180, Vol 1 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1847)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1847)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1847)
From
Carpenter Henry G. Thomas, Boston Navy Yard, 21 Jul 1847:
Is concerned about whether or not he
can expect to serve 2 years in his present post, which he assumed just the
preceding November. If not, he wishes to
be ordered to one of the frigates said to be fitting out at Norfolk.
(Encloses
copies of certificates regarding a rupture he suffered in a fall aloft in
CONSTITUTION on 15 Mar 1845, while he was routinely inspecting spars.)
Roll 181, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1847)
From
Passed Midshipman W. F. Davidson, Petersburg, VA, 3 Aug 1847:
As he was absent overseas in
CONSTITUTION when his year group was examined for promotion, requests he now be
considered without penalty. Encloses a
letter from Captain John Percival certifying his unavoidable absence and
commenting, "His habits are good and his conduct merited my
approbation."
Vol 2 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1847)
NOTHING
Roll 182, Vol 1 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1847)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1847)
From
Passed Midshipman W. P. Buckner, New Orleans, LA, 22 Nov 1847:
Forwards a printed circular addressed
"To The Officers Of The Navy" by an unidentified group of officers on
the subject of naval guns. Principal
points:
1.
"Nine‑tenths of our new guns have been cast without dispart
pieces" on which to mount accurate sights.
2.
"Our guns are almost entirely without sights." Very
few ships have tangent sights.
3.
No range tables nor tables of foreign ship lengths so their range can be
taken.
4.
"Our decks are not graduated nor has [sic] the Spar decks any sight
pickets."
5.
"There are no pendulums near the batteries."
6.
"There are no methods in practice of concentrating and controlling
the fire of our ships."
7.
"The men are not drilled to the exercise of the sword..."
8.
"But few of our ships have ever been allowed or carried field
pieces."
9.
"There is usually only one boat gun allowed (or rather carried) on
board of a frigate..."
10.
"There are no gun spikes provided wherewith to disable guns should
a fort be taken."
11.
"The percussion locks which have been introduced of late years
require a heavy steady strong pull and seamen almost always give them a jerk,
the consequence is that they very frequently misfire..."
12.
The rammers for chambered guns, from their bad shape, frequently get
jammed.
13.
"Our shot are much neglected..."
14.
Shells are kept unfilled and unready. 15. "There are no spherical shot allowed..."
16.
"There are no Congreve rockets allowed..."
17.
"We have no systematic exercise established throughout the
service... The men are allowed to make
use of a great many useless, obsolete and ridiculous words of command. Sequence given (the gun being run in and
unloaded): 1, Stop vent and sponge; 2, Load with cartridge, ram home; 3, Round
shot wad, ram home; 4, Run out; 5, Prick and prime; 6, Point at the enemy [and
where, e.g., "two points forward of the beam"]; 7, Elevate (or level)
your guns; 8, Fire.
18.
"Our target practice is almost always bad..."
[Buckner
had participated in CONSTITUTION's circumnavigation.]
Vol 3 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1847)
NOTHING
Roll 183, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1848)
From
Passed Assistant Surgeon J. S. Whittle, Naval Hospital, Norfolk, VA, 23 Jan
1848:
Forwards statement of service of
Charles Collins, who "served in the Constitution during the war under
Commodore Stewart." "Collins
is a very dull old man and this is the best account I have been able to obtain
from him of his service." [Collins
was Private, USMC, in CONSTITUTION.]
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 29, 1848)
NOTHING
Roll 184, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1848)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1848)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1848)
From
Carpenter George Wisner, Charlestown, MA, 9 May 1848:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
Roll 185, Vol 1 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1848)
From
Gunner Edwin Ross, New York, NY, 3 Jun 1848:
Has "seen by the papers"
that ST. MARYS, PORTSMOUTH, and CONSTITUTION are to be fitted out. Requests orders "for some foreign
Station."
From
Lieutenant R. M. Mullany, New York, NY, 4 Jun 1848:
Acknowledges orders to ST. LOUIS. Requests transfer to ST. LAWRENCE or
CONSTITUTION. [Not to the latter.]
From
Purser William B. Hartwell, Augusta, GA, 9 Jun 1848:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Lieutenant Henry K. Hoff, Philadelphia, PA, 16 Jun 1848:
Requests orders as First Lieutenant of
CONSTITUTION. [Annotated:
"Constitution is not to fit out for Sea..."]
Vol 2 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1848)
From
Carpenter Luther Manson, USS FRANKLIN, 5 Jul 1848:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Passed Midshipman Charles W. Aby, Grand Gulf, MS, 24 Jul 1848:
Requests orders to either ST. LAWRENCE
or CONSTITUTION. [Ordered to latter, 1
Sep.]
From
Purser Benjamin J. Cahoone, New York, NY, 27 Jul 1848:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Passed Midshipman H. Rolando, Washington, DC, 28 Jul 1848:
Requests orders as Acting Master of
CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
Roll 186, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1848)
From
Boatswain R. Dixon, New York, NY, 16 Aug 1848:
Requests orders to the Boston Navy
Yard or to CONSTITUTION. [Not to the
latter.]
From
Acting Midshipman Eugene H. Oakley, USS SPITFIRE, 19 Aug 1848:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
Vol 2 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1848)
From
Acting Gunner John C. Ritter, New York, NY, 4 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant B. F. Shattuck, Boston, MA, 4 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION. Requests permission to
allot $80/mo. to his family. [Granted.]
From
Captain John Gwinn, Philadelphia, PA, 7 Sep 1848:
Understanding that the health of
Lieutenant Lardner, now ordered as First Lieutenant of CONSTITUTION, will not
permit him to go to sea, requests that
Lieutenant Melancthon Smith, now ordered as Second Lieutenant, be moved
up. Will proceed to Boston "tomorrow." [Annotated that Gwinn had been informed that
Lieutenant Rowan had been ordered in Lardner's stead.]
From
Passed Midshipman Dulany A. Forrest, Martinsburg, VA, 8 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report to CONSTITUtION by 1 Oct.
From
Lieutenant James H. Rowan, New York, NY, 8 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report to CONSTITUTION on 15 Sep.
From
Midshipman James Stillwell, New York, NY, 11 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to report to
CONSTITUTION by 1 Oct.
From
Chaplain Nathaniel Frost, New York, NY, 11 Sep 1848:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION in
response to a stated desire for his services by Captain Gwinn. [Done.]
From
Lieutenant Melancton Smith, New York, NY, 12 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Assistant Surgeon Phineas J. Horwitz, Philadelphia, PA, 13 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report to CONSTITUTION by 10 Oct.
From
Assistant Surgeon Alexander J. Rice, Portsmouth, NH, 13 Sep 1848:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman N. T. West, Martha's Vineyard, MA, 14 Sep 1848:
Requests
orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Purser Benjamin J. Cahoone, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Sep 1848:
Reported this date.
From
Passed MIdshipman P. G. Watmough, USS UNION, 14 Sep 1848:
Requests he not be ordered to
CONSTITUTION as requested by Captain Gwinn.
[Done.]
From
Lieutenant A. F. V. Gray, Providence, RI, 14 Sep 1848:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Annotated to the effect that CONSTITUTION
already has her complement of officers, but Gray will be ordered to her for
transport to the Mediterranean and transfer to another ship there.]
From
Passed Assistant Surgeon R. W. Jeffrey, Norfolk, VA, 14 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant W. R. McKinney, Richmond, MO, 15 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant James H. Rowan, Boston, MA, 15 Sep 1848:
Reported this date.
From
Lieutenant Melancton Smith, Boston, MA, 15 Sep 1848:
Reported this date.
From
Sailmaker George D. Blackford, Boston, MA, 15 Sep 1848:
Reported this date.
From
Acting Midshipman R. M. Caldwell, Fulton, PA, 15 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Acting Gunner John C. Ritter, Boston, MA, 16 Sep 1848:
Reported this date.
From
Carpenter Luther Manson, Boston, MA, 16 Sep 1848:
Reported for duty yesterday.
From
Passed Midshipman James Henry Rochelle, Jerusalem, VA, 18 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report to CONSTITUTION by 1 Oct.
From
Passed Midshipman John H. Russell, Rockville, MD, 18 Sep 1848:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman Robert C. Duvall, Hamptonville, NC, 20 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION. Wishes his leave of
absence, due to end 27 Oct, not be curtailed.
[Orders revoked.]
From
Midshipman D. L. Braine, USS MICHIGAN, 22 Sep 1848:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman Charles W. Aby, Grand Gulf, MS, 23 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Midshipman William H. Parker, Boston Navy Yard, 23 Sep 1848:
Requests that his orders to
CONSTITUTION be revoked and replaced with orders to YORKTOWN as Acting
Master. [Done.]
From
Surgeon Charles F. Guillou, Philadelphia, PA, 25 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Midshipman N. T. West, Martha's Vineyard, MA, 25 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Boatswain John Featherston, Boston Navy Yard, 25 Sep 1848:
Reports having been detached from
FRANKLIN on 31 Aug and having reported for duty in CONSTITUTION.
From
Acting Midshipman James G. Maxwell, Naval Hospital, New York, NY, 25 Sep 1848:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done 28 Sep.]
From
Lieutenant A. F. V. Gray, New York Navy Yard, 25 Sep 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Surgeon Charles F. Guillou, Philadelphia, PA, 29 Sep 1848:
Requests permission to delay reporting
until 17 Oct in order to take care of "unfinished business." [Allowed until 15 Oct.]
From
Midshipman James Parker, Somerset, OH, 30 Sep 1848:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Ordered to YORKTOWN.]
From
Lieutenant A. F. V. Gray, Boston Navy Yard, 30 Sep 1848:
Reported for duty.
Roll 187, Vol 1 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1848)
From
Acting Midshipman James L. Butler, Boston, MA, 2 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty.
From
Passed Midshipman Joseph D. Daniels, Boston, MA, 2 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty.
From
Midshipman James Stillwell, Charleston [sic], MA, 2 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty.
From
Passed Midshipman Dulany A. Forrest, Boston, MA, 3 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty 2 Oct.
From
Passed Midshipman James Rochelle, Boston, MA, 3 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty 2 Oct.
From
Midshipman George H. Chapman, Boston, MA, 3 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty this date.
From
Chaplain Nathaniel Frost, Boston, MA, 4 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty.
From
Lieutenant Carter B. Poindexter, Boston, MA, 5 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty this date.
From
Acting Midshipman Eugene H. Oakley, Boston, MA, 5 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty.
From
Passed Midshipman Edward Y. McCauley, Boston, MA, 5 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty this date.
From
Passed Assistant Surgeon R. W. Jeffrey, Boston, MA, 5 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty.
From
Lieutenant W. R. McKinney, Boston, MA, 10 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty.
From
Assistant Surgeon Phineas J. Horwitz, USS CONSTITUTION, 11 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty 10 Oct.
From
Midshipman D. L. Braine, USS MICHIGAN, 16 Oct 1848:
Repeats his request for orders to
CONSTITUTION. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman George E. Morgan, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty 19 Oct.
From
Surgeon Charles F. Guillou, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Oct 1848:
Reported for duty 16 Oct.
From
Sailmaker George D. Blackford, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Oct 1848:
Requests an allotment of $40/mo. for
his family.
From
Acting Gunner John C. Ritter, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Oct 1848:
Requests an allotment of $40/mo. for
his family.
From
Acting Midshipman E. F. Coddington, Annapolis, MD, 23 Oct 1848:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Lieutenant James H. Rowan, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Oct 1848:
Requests and allotment of $80/mo. for
his family.
From
Acting Midshipman Francis H. Baker, Boston, MA, 30 Oct 1848:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
Vol 2 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1848)
From
Acting Midshipman James L. Butler, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Nov 1848:
Forwards a good report of his Service
in USS ON‑KA‑HYE, and requests his warrant. [Annotated: "wait [sic] a while. Not warranted ‑ resigned."]
From
Acting Midshipman E. F. Coddington, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Nov 1848:
Reported for duty.
From
Acting Midshipman J. P. K. Mygatt, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Nov 1848:
Requests his warrant.
From
Passed Midshipman E. Y. McCauley, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Nov 1848:
Requests leave of absence. [No.]
From
Passed Midshipman N. T. West, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Nov 1848:
Requests an allotment of $35/mo. for a
term of 8 months.
Vol 3 (December 1‑ 30, 1848)
From
Acting Midshipman Eugene H. Oakley, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Dec 1848:
Requests his warrant. [Yes.]
Letter
from Carpenter Luther Manson, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 Dec 1848:
"...I am indeed sorry, that the
difficulties existing between my wife and myself should have been reported to
you. and [sic] from the tenor of your
letter, I am induced to believe that the feelings of Commodore [Foxhall A.
Parker], has [sic] been wrought upon, in such manner as to show you but one
side of the picture.
"I believe it is not an unusual
occurrence for difficulties to take place in almost every Family ‑ and
more especially in those who are in indigent circumstances,‑ in such
difficulties, and more especially, when the assistance of a third Person, is
called upon as a Mediator or intercessor, by the Woman or the Wife the Man
& the Husband, must either submit to the decision of the third party or,
perhaps much against his will, make known to the world, at large the existing
difficulties in his family ‑
Such is my case, and under such
circumstances, I am forced, to lay before you, a plain statement of facts,
together with the enclosed documents, which I am induced to believe will in
some measure relieve me of the foul imputations cast upon me. Some four Years since, when these troubles
first commenced, my Wife accused me of Infidelity ‑ of paying no attention
to her, and devoting my spare hours to the company of Lewd Women;[sic] So convinced was she of this being the case
that no proofs or arguments could convince her to the contrary.
On my return from my daily labour, I
have found my house closed. no [sic]
meals provided for me, & left to Surmise as to my Wife's whereabout,
[sic] She finally left my house ‑
taking with her all my Furniture, which she has since appropriated for the use
of her Father and a married Brother,‑
As regards the children I placed the Eldest with a Friend, & have
provided for it ever Since, the Youngest then an infant was retained by the
Mother, but has been supported by me at my Wife's Mother's for some time, and I
have already made provision, for my children's support, during my absence.‑ The chief desire of my Wife, is, that I shall
go to days Work, Quite the Service, or leave her half pay ‑ this I cannot
in Justice to myself and Children do,‑
She voluntarily left me, and by so doing deprived not only myself and
children of what Furniture I owned but ran me in debt, wherever, she could get
trusted, on my account, [sic] She was
then a Member of a church, and it is reasonable to suppose, that her story of
her sufferings, would be received, and passed upon as Truth, no matter
how void of it, it may have been,‑
Within the last Month a bill of Dry Goods, amounting to twenty three dollars was
presented me, for good sold her,‑
to avoid having any difficulty or trouble, and not wishing to tell every one,
the trouble that existed between us,‑ I paid the bill,‑ A few days afterward, a second bill of $70,
for dry goods, (and articles for which she had no necessity for whatever, and
for which not One dollar was for clothing my children) this [sic] I have also paid, and expect to
hear, from some other of her creditors, as soon as our Ship shall attempt to go
to Sea,‑ To save myself from being
farther [sic] annoyed by her, at present, and until I can apply for a divorce,
I have been Obliged to publish her as not to be trusted on my Account,‑‑ She has complained to Commodore Parker, that
I would in no manner provide for her, this I can prove to you is false,‑ I procured a good and respectable boarding
house for her at Boston,‑ to which she positively refused to go,‑ As for me to buy Furniture & again
commence house keeping ‑ would only be a throwing away of Money. Such is a plan statement of facts, and I am
indeed pained, that by the interference of others (who are only acquainted with
one side of the story) I have been forced to make known to the Department the
why & wherefore, of the difficulties between my Wife and Myself."
[Enclosure]
"Portsmouth Nov. 1 1848
"Dear
Sir,
In
answer to your request, I have to say that about three years ago, at the time
your wife left your house, I was induced to call upon her at her fathers house
for the purpose of ascertaining the nature of the difficulties between
you. This I did in company with the late
Robt Smith Esq. in behalf of a benevolent society of which we were
members. We inquired of her the cause of
the disagreement, and particularly whether she had Suffered any ill treatment
from you. She said that she complained
of no personal ill treatment, but that you kept a loaded pistol in the house,
& she was afraid you would kill yourself.
I explained to her that such arms were commonly kept by persons
connected with the military or naval service; and with Mr. Smith advised her to
return to your house, and offered to intercede with you for the settlement and
forgiveness of all misunderstandings.
She absolutely and with much passion refused to return to your house
& to live with you. Being persuaded
that in addition to a violent temper, she was acting under the influence of
injudicious advisors, we left her. She
did not to my recollection [sic] in her account of the differences between you,
allege any thing which Seemed to me a justification for leaving you.
"I know that, at that time, you
offered to provide for the support of both your children; and am satisfied that
you have from that time supported the child which she permitted you to control.
"It is not pleasant to interfere
in any manner in disputes of this nature, but having been satisfied at the
time, that a moderate and reasonable compliance with her duties, on her part,
would have prevented the breach, or produced a reconciliation, I will freely
state any facts which may be within my recollection [sic], which may tend to
the perfect exculpation of your conduct in the whole affair, ‑ as I
believe such is your due.
I am
respectfully
yours
Albert R.
Hatch
"Mr.
Luther Manson
U.S. Ship Constitution"
[Annotated:
"The Dept cannot further interfere."]
Roll 188, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1849)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1849)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1849)
NOTHING
Roll 189, Vol 1 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1849)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1849)
From
Surgeon Charles F. Guillou, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 May 1849:
Request a correction to the sea duty
time listed for him in the latest Register, noting that he accepted orders to
CONSTITUTION on 25 Sep 1848, and stating that he should be credited with 8
years of sea duty.
Roll 190, Vol 1
(June 1 ‑ 30, 1849)
From
Assistant Surgeon Phineas J. Horwitz, USS CONSTITUTION, 19 Jun 1849:
Request orders to one of the ships
"now fitting out for the Arctic Ocean."
From
Passed Midshipman Dulany A. Forrest, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Jun 1849:
Requests orders to one of the ships
"now fitting out to explore the Arctic Ocean."
Vol 2 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1849)
NOTHING
Roll 191, Vol 1
(August 1 ‑ 31, 1849)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1849)
NOTHING
Roll 192, Vol 1 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1849)
From
Gunner John C. Ritter, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Oct 1849:
Reports that in Oct 1848, he met a
naval officer named Higgins, a stranger to him, who was in financial
distress. Ritter got $50 on credit to
lend to Higgins [apparently one of two Passed Midshipmen of that name then in
service], who subsequently repaid him $15, promising to forward the remainder
to his family after CONSTITUTION sailed.
Encloses a letter for forwarding to Higgins pressing repayment.
Vol 2 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1849)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1849)
NOTHING
Roll 193, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1850)
From
the Lieutenants of USS JAMESTOWN, Mediterranean Squadron, [] Jan 1850:
The letter discusses the negative side
of the new regulations giving "assimilated rank" to medical officers
that belittles the long years of service of the sea officers.
[Enclosure]
"To the Honorable, the Secretary
of the Navy.
"We, the undersigned Lieutenants
in the United States Navy, believing that injustice has been done our grade, by
promoting over us a large number of officers: most respectfully and earnestly request, that the
general orders, giving Surgeons and Pursers of more than twelve years,
assimilated rank with Commanders, be so modified as to place them where they
originally belonged. "We also take this opportunity to call your attention to the fact, that by the present assimilated rank, Surgeons and Pursers of more than twelve years, take rank and precedence over all Lieutenants off duty, but when on duty many of the Lieutenants take rank and precedence over many of the Surgeons and Pursers of more than twelve years, and at the same time these very Surgeons and Pursers take rank and precedence over many of the Commanders in the service.
"By giving rank and precedence
over officers when off duty and at the same time placing them under the same
officers when on duty, a system is created difficult in its operation and is
inconsistent with military usage.
"We, therefore, sincerely believe
the Honorable, the Secretary of the Navy will, on mature deliberation, grant
this, our petition or afford such relief as in his wisdom shall seem just and
equitable,
J. H. Rowan, Lt Frigate
Constitution
A.
F. V. Gray " "
B.
F. Shattuck " "
Carter B. Poindexter " "
L C Sartori " "
W.
C. McKinney " "
From
Sailmaker George D. Blackford, New York Navy Yard, 29 Jan 1850:
Reports his arrival in the US, having
been invalided home from CONSTITUTION.
[Detached 5 Nov.]
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1850)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1850)
NOTHING
Roll 194, Vol 1 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1850)
From
Gunner Adrian A. Peterson, Chelsea, MA, 24 Apr 1850:
"Your memorialist would
respectfully represent to the Hon: Secretary of the Navy, that I have been in
the Naval Service of the Country for a period of 42 years, ever since 1807,
& am now 62 years of age. I had the
honor of serving the Country during the late British War, & was in the
frigate Constitution, from April 1812 to 17th June 1815, & was in the three
battles viz. with the Frigate [sic]
Guerriere, Java, Cyane & Levant.
During the action with the Java, I received a contusion in [sic] the
head, & have been quite deaf from that time to this. Since 1815, I have been variously employed,
within the Navy Yards or Magazines, or in vessels of war in various
places. Most of the Senior Officers of
the Navy & Marine Corps know me personally.
"I have been waiting orders for
some time, & now desire to be ordered to some Southern Station, to a milder
climate, as my health is infirmed, & the rigors of this climate are too
severe for me. I could make myself
useful on shore, in the ordinary at Norfolk, or in the laboratory at Washington,
having been fourteen years a Gunner in the Service, & I would respectfully
ask the Department to assign me some at those or other Southern Stations."
Vol 2 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1850)
From
Surgeon Charles F. Guillou, USS CONSTITUTION, to Captain Thomas A. Conover, USS
CONSTITUTION, 9 May 1850:
"Having now finished vaccinating
the officers and crew of this Ship, and waited sufficiently to observe the
termination of the cases infected, I respectfully report: "The Ship's company having undergone considerable changes since I first examined them in reference to their liability to small‑pox, I deemed it necessary to renew this examination in March last, after I had obtained some recent vaccine matter from Dr. Auban, a Medical Prefect in the French Navy and Surgeon in Chief of the Naval Hospital at Toulon.
"Of 460 officers and men on board
the Ship 57 were found not sufficiently protected. 115 were considered doubtful: Although vaccine cicatrices or variola pits
existed in all of these last, they were not so distinct as to place their
specific characters entirely beyond doubt.
"The remainder of the Ship's
company were considered sufficiently protected: but such among them as desired
it were again vaccinated.
"Those not protected were
vaccinated and revaccinated until the whole number except three have taken the
infection. These three unsuccessful
cases have now each been vaccinated from five different scabs, but
without effect.
"Of the doubtful cases
eighteen have taken the infection; each of this class has been vaccinated from
at least two good scabs.
"Of these having perfectly
distinct and normal cicatrices, nine have, upon revaccination, had regular
pustules with all the required characteristics.
"From the foregoing data, I think
we may fairly conclude that the Officers and Crew of this Ship are as secure
against small‑pox as vaccination can well render them."
Roll 195, Vol 1 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1850)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1850)
From
Master H. Rolando, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 Jul 1850:
Has heard he has been promoted to
lieutenant. Is it true? [Yes.]
Roll 196, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1850)
From
Surgeon Charles F. Guillou, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Aug 1850:
Upon the ship's return to the US,
requests shore duty in Philadelphia. And
if the ship remains deployed over the winter, requests leave to visit Paris
during the period she normally is inactive.
Vol 2 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1850)
NOTHING
Roll 197, Vol 1 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1850)
From
Passed Midshipman James H. Rochelle, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Oct 1850:
Requests that the Register be
corrected to show his name as "James H. Rochelle," his middle initial
presently being omitted.
Vol 2 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1850)
NOTHING
Roll 198 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1850)
NOTHING
Roll 199 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1851)
From
Midshipman Edward R. Shubrick, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Jan 1851:
Reports his return to the US in
CONSTITUTION. [Annotated: "Detach
him on leave."]
From
Assistant Surgeon P. J. Horwitz, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Jan 1851:
Requests
orders to USS ST. LAWRENCE. [No.]
From
Lieutenant James H. Rowan, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Jan 1851:
Requests orders to the New York
Rendezvous.
[Enclosure]
From
Captain Thomas A. Conover, USS CONSTITUTION, to Lieutenant James H. Rowan, USS
CONSTITUTION, 12 Jan 1851:
"As we are about to separate, I
cannot permit you to leave me, without expressing to you the high sense
entertained by me of your services as Executive Officer of this Ship. I have ever found you vigilant, active,
intelligent and persevering in the performance of your very arduous duties, and
ever ready and anxious to cooperate with me in carrying out the proper
discipline of the Service..."
From
Passed Midshipman Thomas S. Phelps, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Jan 1851:
Acknowledges receipt "this
date" of his detachment with three months leave.
From
Lieutenant Carter B. Poindexter, New York, NY, 20 Jan 1851:
Reports that "after this
date" he will be at Norfolk, VA.
From
Lieutenant Melancton Smith, New York Navy Yard, 20 Jan 1851:
Reports that he received "this
day" a three months' leave of absence, which he will spend in Wisconsin,
"as soon as the season will admit."
From
Midshipman James Stillwell, New York, NY, 20 Jan 1851:
Acknowledges receipt of his leave of
absence for three months, which he will spend in Zanesville, OH.
From
Lieutenant Thomas M. Crossan, New York, NY, 20 Jan 1851:
Acknowledges receipt of his leave of
absence for three months. Will be at
Pittsburgh, PA.
From
Lieutenant B. F. Shattuck, New York, NY, 20 Jan 1851:
Reports
his detachment from CONSTITUTION "this date." Requests orders to the Boston Navy Yard. [Done.]
From
Midshipman J. P. K. Mygatt, New York, NY, 21 Jan 1851:
Acknowledges receipt of leave orders
"this date." Will be at
Poland, OH.
From
Assistant Surgeon P. J. Horwitz, New York, NY, 21 Jan 1851:
Acknowledges receipt of leave orders;
will be at Philadelphia, PA.
From
Chaplain Nathaniel Frost, New York, NY, 21 Jan 1851:
Acknowledges receipt of leave orders;
will be at Boston, MA.
From
Midshipman F. H. Baker, New York, NY, 21 Jan 1851:
Acknowledges receipt of leave orders;
will be at Portsmouth, NH.
From
Midshipman George H. Chapman, New York, NY, 22 Jan 1851:
Acknowledges detachment from
CONSTITUTION on leave; will be at Indianapolis, IN.
From
Passed Midshipman William W. Low, New York, NY, 22 Jan 1851:
Acknowledges detachment from
CONSTITUTION on three months leave. Will
remain at New York.
From
Passed Midshipman William Gilmer Hoffman, Baltimore, MD, 22 Jan 1851:
Acknowledges receipt of detachment
orders from CONSTITUTION.
From
Passed Assistant Surgeon R. W. Jeffery, Norfolk, VA, 23 Jan 1851:
Acknowledges receipt of detachment
from CONSTITUTION on leave.
Roll 200 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1851)
NOTHING
Roll 201, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1851)
From
Midshipman E. F. Coddington, New York, NY, 5 Mar 1851:
Reports he contracted chronic
bronchitis and was recommended to be invalided home 18 months before the end of
the cruise. He refused, but was on sick
List for the entire return voyage. Says
he is not fit for sea duty and requests additional leave. [Annotated that he should report to JAMESTOWN
and request medical survey if necessary.]
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1851)
From
Purser Benjamin J.Cahoone, New York, NY, 3 Apr 1851:
Reports having returned the unexpended
balance of funds drawn for CONSTITUTION to the Treasury.
Roll 202, Vol 1 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1851)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1851)
NOTHING
Roll 203, Vol 1 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1851)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1851)
NOTHING
Roll 204, Vol 1 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1851)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1851)
NOTHING
Roll 205, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1851)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1851)
NOTHING
Roll 206, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1852)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 29, 1852)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1852)
NOTHING
Roll 207, Vol 1 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1852)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1852)
NOTHING
Roll 208, Vol 1 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1852)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1852)
NOTHING
Roll 209 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1852)
NOTHING
Roll 210 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1852)
From
Surgeon George Terrill, Newport, RI, 16 Sep 1852:
Acknowledges receipt of notice that he
is to receive orders as "Surgeon of the Fleet" in the African
Squadron. Intends to leave for
Washington immediately to provide the Department with reasons not to so
order him. [Ordered to the Pensacola
Naval Hospital instead.]
Roll 211 (October 1‑ 31, 1852)
From
Lieutenant C. R. P. Rodgers, Morristown, NJ, 16 Oct 1852:
On the advice of Commodore Isaac Mayo,
requests orders to the African Squadron as that officer's Flag Lieutenant. States he is recovered from the bronchitis
that forced his early return from CONGRESS "last year," and although
his heart is still in no condition to permit him to act as a watch officer, he
is sufficiently well to perform the duties of aide. [Annotated: "Preparatory orders issued
20 Octr 1852."]
From
Lieutenant W. R. Gardner, Washington, DC, 23 Oct 1852:
Requests preparatory orders to
CONSTITUTION with leave until her officers are required.
From
Lieutenant W. R. Gardner, 25 Oct 1852:
Acknowledges receipt of orders
detaching him from the National Observatory on leave until ordered to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant S. F. Hazard, Newport, RI, 26 Oct 1852:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
Roll 212, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1852)
From
Purser J. C. Eldridge, New York, NY, 1 Nov 1852:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [No: one already ordered.]
From
Lieutenant A. G. Clary, USS OHIO, 1 Nov 1852:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION dated 26 Oct.
From
Lieutenant S. F. Hazard, New York, NY, 2 Nov 1852:
Has reported for duty in CONSTITUTION.
From
Purser Thomas B. Nalle, Washington, DC, 3 Nov 1852:
Requests permission to delay until 20
Nov in reporting to CONSTITUTION.
[Granted.]
From
Lieutenant S. F. Hazard, New York, NY, 10 Nov 1852:
Requests permission to leave an
allotment of $90/mo. for his family.
[Authorized.]
From
Lieutenant A. G. Clary, New York, NY, 15 Nov 1852:
Reported for duty in CONSTITUTION 8
Nov.
From
Midshipman W. H. Dana, Warren, OH, 21 Nov 1852:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant C. R. P. Rodgers, Morristown, NJ, 23 Nov 1853:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to be
Commodore Mayo's Flag Lieutenant.
From
Midshipman Thomas P. Pelot, New York, NY, 27 Nov 1852:
Reported for duty in CONSTITUTION this
date.
From
Midshipman Thomas P. Pelot, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Nov 1852:
Being most interested in seeing the
Far East, requests transfer to USS MACEDONIAN.
[No.]
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1852)
From
Midshipman W. H. Dana, New York, NY, 1 Dec 1852:
Has reported for duty in CONSTITUTION.
From
Purser Thomas B. Nalle, Washington, DC, 13 Dec 1852:
Requests leave extension until 10 Jan
1853. [Referred to ship's captain.]
From
Purser Thomas B. Nalle, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Dec 1852:
Requisitions money ($4000 for pay and
provisions) for the ship.
Roll 213, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1853)
From
Lieutenant W. R. Gardner, Augusta, GA, 2 Jan 1853:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Midshipman J. C. Sullivan, Madison, IN, 3 Jan 1853:
Reports end of leave of absence. [Annotated: "Ordered to Constitution
Jany 11, 1853."]
From
Gunner A. S. Lewis, New York Navy Yard, 3 Jan 1853:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION dated 31 Dec 1852; reported this date.
From
Lieutenant A. G. Clary, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Jan 1853:
Reports he has this day been ordered
to USS MARION, but hopes he will be allowed to rejoin CONSTITUTION again. [Annotated to the effect that his return to
the frigate will be up to the squadron commander.]
From
Purser James H. Watmough, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Jan 1853:
Reports he has drawn a "large
amount" of money for the ship as it is hard to get on the African coast,
and then usually only in small quantities.
[Received $15,000.]
From
Passed Midshipman J. Walcott, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Jan 1853:
Is happy to learn that the officers of
USS MARION, to which he was lately attached, are willing to overlook his past
transgressions. Requests permission to
sail in CONSTITUTION to rejoin MARION.
From
Purser James H. Watmough, USS CONSTITUTION, 11 Jan 1853:
Requests permission to allot $200/mo.
of his pay. [Granted.]
From
Passed Midshipman Colville Terrell, Washington, DC, 13 Jan 1853:
Request his orders of 6 Jan be revoked
and that he be reordered to the Office of the Coast Survey until such time as
CONSTITUTION "is about to sail, when he would report aboard for transport
to become the acting Master of USS MARION.
Failing that, wishes orders to the Ringgold Expedition. Also wishes authority to allot half his
pay. [All but Coast Survey part
granted.]
From
Lieutenant W. R. Gardner, New York, NY, 14 Jan 1853:
Reported "this day" for duty
in CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant W. R. Garner, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Jan 1853:
Requests permission to allot $75/mo. [Granted.]
From
Surgeon M. G. Delaney, Cobleskill, NY, 18 Jan 1853:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION as "Surgeon of the Fleet" dated 15 Jan.
From
Midshipman Charles L. O. Hammond, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Jan 1853:
Reported for duty on 15 Jan.
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1853)
From
Sailmaker John J. Stanford, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Feb 1853:
Wishes
to allot $40/mo. to his family.
[Approved.]
From
Lieutenant W. Carrington Watkins, New York, NY, 1 Feb 1853:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Yes.]
From
Lieutenant S. F. Hazard, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Feb 1853:
Wardroom Cook Robert Durand, who was
incompetent and nominated for immediate discharge, deserted on 30 Jan. He "is no loss, as he recvd no
advance."
From
Surgeon M. G. Delaney, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Feb 1853:
Requests the purchase of oil cloth to
cover the deck of Sick Bay to facilitate cleanliness. [Denied by the Chief of the Bureau of
Construction.]
From
Assistant Surgeon John C. Coleman, New York, NY, 10 Feb 1853:
Reported for duty in CONSTITUTION this
date.
From
Boatswain Charles Johnston and Carpenter Lewis Holmes, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Feb
1853:
Each wishes to allot $40/mo. to their
family. [Approved.]
From
Midshipman Thomas P. Pelot, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Feb 1853:
Wishes orders to the Ringgold
Expedition because he already has had duty in two frigates and feels he will
become better qualified by being in a smaller ship.
From
Lieutenant C. R. P. Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Feb 1853:
Wishes to allot $84/mo. to his
family. [Approved.]
Roll 214 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1853)
NOTHING
Roll 215 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1853)
NOTHING
Roll 216 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1853)
NOTHING
Roll 217 (June 1‑ ‑30, 1853)
From
Midshipmen Charles H. Cushman, Aeneas Armstrong, W. H. Dana, Edward E. Potter,
Thomas P. Pelot, and William L. Bradford, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Jun 1853:
At Gibraltar. The undersigned, never having had the
advantage of the prescribed course at the Naval Academy, request that a
Professor of Mathematics be ordered to the ship to further their studies.
Roll
281 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1853)
From
Midshipman J. C. Sullivan, USS SAN JACINTO, 5 Jul 1853:
Reports his return to the US, as
ordered by Commodore Isaac Mayo.
Detached from CONSTITUTION on 4 Jun in order to return and take up studies
at the Naval Academy.
From
Sailmaker J. J. Stanford, Norfolk, VA, 8 Jul 1853:
Reports his return to the US due to
temporary unfitness for duty. Detached
from CONSTITUTION on 3 Jun and returned in USS SAN JACINTO.
From
Lieutenant M. Carrington Watkins, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Jul 1853:
At Porto Praya. Has spent a total of almost six years on the
African coast, and again [for at least the 3rd time] recommends a Navy‑sponsored
exploration of the continent. Had
requested duty in CONSTITUTION in the hope that he might, at the least, be
provided a boat "and a few Kroomen" with which to "make a
reconnaissance of one of the most magnificent rivers in Africa." Commodore Mayo has refused him. Request a month's leave from 1 Jan 1854 to
travel in Africa. "I wish to seek
information, fame, and renown in the wilds of Africa." Requests he be retained on full pay during
the leave, and be provided with boat, Kroomen, instruments, and arms.
[Endorsement]
From
Lieutenants S. F. Hazard, C. S. McDonough, W. R. Gardner, and John De Camp;
Surgeon of the Fleet M. G. Delaney; Passed Assistant Surgeon John L. Bush;
Assistant Surgeon John C. Coleman; Acting Master Coleville Terrett; Brevet
Major N. S. Waldron, USMC; and commodore's Secretary Llewellyn Boyle:
Urge approval of a leave of "six
months or more" for the proper exploration of "certain rivers on the
coast of Africa" [those between
Cape Palmas and Liberia]."
[Annotated:
"file."]
From
Master D. R. Lambert, USS JOHN ADAMS, 23 Jul 1853:
Reports his return to the US, having
been detached from CONSTITUTION 20 Jun due to ill health. An enclosed letter from the squadron
commander notes he was "a zealous and meritorious officer" of
"untiring fidelity."
Roll 219, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1853)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1853)
NOTHING
Roll 220 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1853)
NOTHING
Roll 221, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1853)
From
Lieutenant C. R. P. Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Nov 1853:
Wishes his state of record to be
listed as "New Jersey."
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1853)
NOTHING
Roll 222, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1854)
From
Lieutenant John De Camp, Morristown, NJ, 5 Jan 1854:
Reports arriving in New York on 4 Jan
in charge of the prized slaver H. N. GAMBRILL of Baltimore. The crew of the GAMBRILL and 12 invalids from
CONSTITUTION have been turned over to the New York Navy Yard. The schooner is in the custody of US
marshals, and her documents in the hands of Mr. O'Connor, the US District
Attorney. He said it appeared to have
been a valid capture. Boatswain Johnston
of CONSTITUTION was among the invalids returned. He gave valuable assistance during the
"long and tempestuous" return passage. All the enlisteds invalids are recovering and
desire discharges. Commodore Mayo
indicated he wanted De Camp back ‑ at Madeira, if possible. [Offered duty at the NY Rendezvous.]
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1854)
NOTHING
Roll 223, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1854)
From
Sailmaker William Bennett, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Mar 1854:
Authority for his $45/mo. allotment
expires on 31 Jul; requests it be extended 2 years. [Done.]
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 29, 1854)
NOTHING
Roll 224, Vol 1 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1854)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1854)
From
Midshipman C. H. Cashman, Salem, MA, 22 Jun 1854:
Reports his return to the US in the merchant
brig PLANET in order that he may join his class at the Naval Academy on 1 Oct.
Roll 225 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1854)
NOTHING
Roll 226, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1854)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1854)
NOTHING
Roll 227, Vol 1 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1854)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1854)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1854)
NOTHING
Roll 228, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1855)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1855)
NOTHING
Roll 229, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1855)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1855)
From
Purser James H. Watmough, USS CONSTITUTION, 19 Apr 1855:
"At the Island of Mayo [sic] in
March last Commodore Mayo purchased provisions for this ship without allowing
me as Purser of the Vessel to have any Agency in the transaction, beyond the
payment of the bills.
"I now respectfully call upon the
Department to decide whether Pursers are not the Agents appointed to attend to
these matters according to the orders of April 13, 1843, March 15, 1844
officially communicated by the Hon. Wm. A. Graham acct. of the Navy under date
Nov 11, 1851, and instructions from the 4th Auditor of Novr 1950 (copies of
which I herewith enclose) and I most respectfully request t hat instructions
may be issued to prevent a recurrence of similar infringements of the duties
and responsibilities of my Office."
[Enclosures]
Letter
of 13 Apr 1844, effective immediately, ends the practice of paying commissions
to anyone for purchases made overseas.
All such purchases are to be made either by ships' pursers or resident storekeepers.
Letter
of 15 Mar 1844 directs Pursers of ships on foreign stations to make purchases
for their ships where there are no USN Storekeepers.
Later
letters cited reiterate the above.
[Annotated
in concurrence of Watmough's position.]
Roll 230 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1855)
NOTHING
Roll
231 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1855)
From
Lieutenant W. R. Gardner, New York, NY, 1 Jun 1855:
"I have the honor to report my
arrival in the U. States agreeable to permission from Commodore i. Mayo, and I
beg leave to state that on the 24th of April last, the day after we bore up for
Cuba, I received a communication from Commodore Mayo, offering to place me on
board the first homeward bound vessel that we might meet, or, to remain, and
should the present state of affairs in Cuba result in hostilities, to be
released from arrest, in order that I might participate in any active service
assigned to the other Lieutenants on board the 'Constitution,' my case still
being held subject to the decision of the Navy Department. I choose [sic] the latter, and on our arrival
in Havana, finding that there was no probability of immediate hostilities, I
then asked permission to return to U. States [sic]. The circumstances which led to my making such
a request will be fully understood when the Despatches from the Constitution
arrives [sic]. I will report in person
to you in Washington, to enable you, should there be any doubt in your mind, to
form a more correct opinion on the subject of the difficulty between us. [Annotated: "Detach him & 3 mos leave
& say that the subject of his communication will receive the immediate
action of the Dept."]
From
Lieutenant W. R. Gardner, Washington, DC, 2 Jun 1855:
Acknowledges his detachment from
CONSTITUTION. Says his residence will be
Augusta, GA.
From
Purser James H. Watmough, USS CONSTITUTION, 2 Jun 1855:
Requisitions $105,000 for the ship.
From
Lieutenant C. R. P. Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Jun 1855:
Notes that he had to return early from
the Brazil Station in 1851 due to ill health.
Reports he has now completed a full cruise on the African Station with
only 2 weeks sick with "African fever." Requests that an enclosed certification as to
his good health, from Surgeon Delaney, be made a part of his record.
From
Sailmaker William Bennett, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Jun 1855:
Acknowledges receipt of his detachment
orders and 3 months leave.
From
Lieutenant Samuel Larkin, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Jun 1855:
Reports his detachment "this
date" with 3 months leave.
From
Lieutenant Benjamin M. Dove, Portsmouth, NH, 14 Jun 1855:
Acknowledges receipt of detachment
orders and 3 months leave. Intends to
remain at Portsmouth.
From
Lieutenant S. F. Hazard, Portsmouth, NH, 15 Jun 1855:
Reports he will spend his leave at
Newport, RI.
From
Midshipman Aeneas Armstrong, Portsmouth, NH, 15 Jun 1855:
Reports he will spend his leave in
Macon, GA.
From
Passed Assistant Surgeon John L. Burtt, Portsmouth, NH, 15 Jun 1855:
Reports his detachment from
CONSTITUTION on the 14th; will be on leave at Philadelphia.
From
Midshipman W. H. Dana, Portsmouth, NH, 15 Jun 1855:
Reports his detachment; will spend his
leave at Athens, OH.
From
Midshipman William L. Bradford, Portsmouth, NH, 15 Jun 1855:
Reports his detachment from
CONSTITUTION; will spend his leave at Huntsville, AL.
From
Surgeon M. G. Delaney, Albany, NY, 16 Jun 1855:
Has been detached from CONSTITUTION
and is residing at Albany.
From
Carpenter Lewis Holmes, Portsmouth, NH, 17 Jun 1855:
Detached from CONSTITUTION on 14 May
[sic: meant June]; will remain at Portsmouth on leave.
From
Master Colville Terrett, Washington, DC, 22 Jun 1855:
Detached from CONSTITUTION on 14 Jun;
on leave in Washington, DC.
From
Lieutenant W. R. Gardner, Augusta, GA, 23 Jun 1855:
"Knowing how severely your time
was taxed when I was in Washington, I have delayed again troubling you about my
case, but I feel confident you will think that one who has served at sea, or
attached to sea going ship's [sic] for nearly seventeen years without ever
having had a difficulty; will naturally feel restless under the severe course
pursued towards him by Commodore I. Mayo.
"I was kept under arrest for two
months and twenty‑four days after the adjournment of the Court Martial
that tried me, in direct violation of an order of the Navy Department of
December 15th 1844. This was done, and
the pretext of referring the case to the Department which he had full power to
dispose of himself; and had not even the excuse of preferring new charges
against me*. A case very similar to mine
will be found in the trial of Commodore Thomas Ap C. Jones which trial took
place at the Washington Navy Yard December 1850. I would like to draw your attention to the
10th Page of that trial, on which you will find Charge V ‑
Oppression. A portion of the
specification.‑‑ runs thus 'He the said Captain Jones having
dissolved the said court on the twenty‑first day of October in the year
aforesaid, thereafter oppressively, and maliciously did suppress, and withhold
from promulgation, the said finding and opinion of the said court for the space
of nearly two months; thereby oppressively and maliciously depriving the said
Lieutenant Stanley of the benefit of the said finding and opinion; and keeping
him under the odium and disgrace of charges affecting not only his character as
an officer, but his honor as a gentleman; and oppressively and maliciously
pending the secrecy, ordered the said Lieutenant Stanley from the said Pacific
station, thereby confirming the injurious effect produced by the suppression of
the said finding as aforesaid.' by [sic]
turning to Page 269, you will see the finding of the Court, viz 'That the first
specification of the fifth charge is proved, except the words "and
maliciously" wherever they occur in said specification And that of the
said fifth charge the said Captain Thomas ApCatesby Jones is Guilty.'
"There are two points in which my
case differs from the above ‑ the first, I was kept under arrest a longer
time and secondly, I applied for orders to return home in the 'Constitution'
for by her the proceedings of my court would be taken to the U. States, and
also I was informed that the Commodore did not intend to restore me to duty:
for the night Commander H. Y. Purviance handed me my orders to the
'Constitution' he remarked that if I had remained in the 'Marion,' he intended
to restore me to duty as soon as the Commodore left the station.
Now Sir, I beg leave to be
understood as not requesting any charges to be brought against Commodore
Mayo. That I leave for you to judge, but
I do desire such an expression of opinion from the Department as is due to an
officer who has performed his duty faithfully ‑‑
"I was arrested at Porto Praya on
the 26th day of February last, and did not learn the finding of the Court in my
case until my arrival in Washington June 2d 1855, and I have heard that Mr.
Morse [Wm. H. Morse, Navy Storekeeper at
Porto Praya since 1847] has boasted that 'he had fixed me,' this I would not
regard, but for the apparent confirmation of it, by my not being restored to
duty; for it requires more than his assertion to give credence to any thing,
and this boast appeared to have been founded in truth. The Inhabitants of Porto Praya, my brother
officers of the African Squadron, and those of my profession generally, have
every reason to believe, that as I had not been restored to duty, and being
deprived of the finding and opinion of the court, that I had at least been
severely adjudged, instead of the Acquittal which the court found for me, for
no one previously to this would have even hinted that there was any sympathy
between the Commodore and a man of Mr. Morse's known character, and in
confirmation of such, I will give you the substance of a message sent through
the Flag Lieutenant to me on our passage home (April 24th). That if I would express regret at sending the
message that led to my trial, He (Commodore Mayo) would restore me to duty, for
any arrangement that would be satisfactory to him (Commodore Mayo) would also
be satisfactory to Mr. Morse. I declined
complying with this, although in ignorance of the finding of the court, but at
the same time stated my readiness for any duty that he might assign me‑
and I believe Sir, that if he Commodore Mayo could take an impartial
view of the case, that he would agree with me in thinking that the Charge was
light and frivolous, and that he had exceeded his authority by inflicting a
punishment beyond that found by the court that tried my case..." [Annotation largely obscured.]
Roll 232 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1855)
From
Lieutenant W. R. Gardner, Miranda, NC, 30 Jul 1855:
"I have the honor to acknowledge
the receipt of your communication of the 28th of June informing me that you had
examined carefully the proceedings of the Court Martial in my case, and also,
that you had approved of the finding of the Court, and took pleasure in
relieving me from any further suspence [sic] on the subject; for which Sir, I
beg leave to make my acknowledgements; But I fear, that I have not been
sufficiently explicit in my letter of the 23d of June last. I, in that communication,
attempted to draw your attention also to the conduct of Commodore I. Mayo
towards me. The length of time that I
was kept under arrest after the adjournment of the Court that tried me, in
direct violation of an order of the Navy Department, which, together with the
secrecy as to the finding &c of the Court, has a strong tendency to injure
me in the opinion of the Inhabitants of Porto Praya, and the officers of the
Squadron in which I was then serving, which Squadron I left under arrest, (had
I remained, I would not have been restored to duty by Commodore Mayo) thereby
leaving the impression that I had been at least severely adjudged; And by again
referring to your letter of the 28th of June, I would respectfully draw your
attention to that part, runs thus 'There was nothing in the case presented, of
so serious a nature as to involve your
character as an officer' &c, and at the same time, I have, in the most
public manner been injured in the eyes of all who know only of my having been
tried, for the charge implies a grave offence, and by his oppressively
maintaining the secrecy on the finding and opinion of the Court, and not
restoring me to duty, was exceeding his authority, for it was inflicting a
punishment when none was found by the Court, an arbitrary act, in which I very
much doubt, if he can find any law to justify himself. A case very similar will be found in the
trial of Commodore Thos A. P. [sic] Jones for his conduct to Lieutenant
Stanley, which trial took place at the Washington Navy Yard December 1850, and
the Court found him (Captain Jones) Guilty of Oppression. This I stated more at length in my
communication of the 23d of June last. I
also stated in that, that I did not request charges to be preferred against
Commodore Mayo, that I leave for you to judge, but I do not think that I ask
too much in requiring such an expression of opinion from you, you to whom I can
alone appeal, upon the 'oppressive' conduct of Commodore Mayo, as may in the
future guard those who may have been acquitted by a Court Martial from like
oppression. And also, that the finding
& opinion of the Court Martial in my case may be read on the Quarter Deck
of each vessel of the African Squadron.
It was on that station that I was tried, and as they already consequently
have a part, I would prefer that they should officially be informed of the
Whole, thereby leaving no room for the apparent truthfulness of Mr. Morse's
boast, that he had fixed me..."
[Annotated: "File."]
Roll 233, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1855)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1855)
NOTHING
Roll 234 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1855)
NOTHING
Roll 235, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1855)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1855)
NOTHING
Roll 236, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1856)
From
Lieutenant W. R. Garner, Naval Observatory, 12 Jan 1856:
Reminds the Secretary that he has been
promised an interview on his complaint against Commodore Mayo. [Annotated that :" Gardner has been
answered verbally."]
From
Lieutenant W. R. Gardner, Washington, DC, 17 Jan 1856:
Again requests that the decision of
the court martial in his case be published in the African Squadron, and that he
receive a letter from the Secretary condemning Commodore Mayo's actions on that
occasion. [Annotated:: "File."]
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 29, 1856)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1856)
From
Lieutenant W. R. Gardner, Naval Observatory, 3 Mar 1856:
Acknowledges receipt of the
Secretary's letter of 26 Feb 1856, icluding copies of letters to Commodore Mayo
and to the commander of the African Squadron.
From
64 Lieutenants (including Jas W. Cooke, W. P. Buckner, Wm R. Gardner, M. P.
Jones, F. S. Haggerty, and Colville Terrett), 31 Mar 1856:
They propose the Department develop
uniform watch, quarter, and station bills for each class of warship, just as
standardized gun batteries have been imlemented. The proposal is endorsed by 4 captains
(including W. B. Shubrick and S. F. Dupont) and 13 commanders (including W. T.
Muse and Chas Steedman). [Men listed in
parentheses are officers who once served in CONSTITUTION.]
Roll 237, Vol 1 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1856)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1856)
NOTHING
Roll 238, Vol 1 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1856)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1856)
NOTHING
Roll 239, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1856)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (September 1‑ 30, 1856)
NOTHING
Roll
240, Vol 1 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1856)
From
Lieutenant Colville Terrett, Washington, DC, 14 Nov 1856:
"I respectfully request a
certificate of he following record evidence, contained in the Log‑Book of
the U. S. Frigate Constitution, of the service rendered by her during the
Mexican War, in the year 1846:‑viz:‑ "1st:‑ The U. S. Frigate Constitution sailed from Mazatlan (California) April 23rd 1846, and passed round Cape Horn homeward bound on the 7th day of July 1846:‑ making fifty‑five days service rendered by her in the Pacific Ocean during the Mexican War, (west of Cape Horn) from its commencement 13th May 1846 to the 7th day of July 1846
"2nd:‑ The U. S. Frigate
Constitution arrived at Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) July 29th 1846, and got
underway from thence for Boston, (Mass.) August 5th 1846, having in convoy
American merchant vessels (six in number) and anchored the same day in
consequence of light winds, &c.
"3rd:‑ The U. S. Frigate
Constitution sailed from Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) on the 6th day of August 1846,
for Boston, (Mass.) with the Convoy of American merchant vessels in company.‑‑ Convoyed said American merchant vessels, or
the most of them, to the vicinity of the Atlantic coast of the United States
(off Cape Hatteras) until the 16th and 17th of September 1846.
"4th:‑ The U. S. Frigate Constitution on the 2nd day
of September 1846, in the Atlantic Ocean, in Lat. 17‑54 North and Long.
about 49‑45 West, at 1h20m P.M. spoke the American ship Mississippi from
Talcahuana ((Chili) [sic] bound to Baltimore:‑ informed her of War
existing between the United States and Mexico, and took her in convoy.‑‑ See remarks for the 2nd, 3rd & 4th days
of September 1846, in the Log‑Book of the U. S. Frigate
Constitution." [Annotated:
"Transmit certificate to Terrell."]
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1856)
NOTHING
Roll 241, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1857)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1857)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1857)
NOTHING
Roll 242 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1857)
NOTHING
Roll 243 (May 1 ‑ 30, 1857)
NOTHING
Roll 244 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1857)
NOTHING
Roll 245, Vol 1 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1857)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1857)
NOTHING
Roll 246 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1857)
NOTHING
Roll 247 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1857)
NOTHING
Roll 248, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1857)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1857)
NOTHING
Roll 249, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1858)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1858)
NOTHING
Roll 250, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1858)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1858)
NOTHING
Roll 251 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1858)
NOTHING
Roll 252 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1858)
NOTHING
Roll 253, Vol 1 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1858)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1858)
NOTHING
Roll 254 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1858)
NOTHING
Roll 255 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1858)
NOTHING
Roll 256, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1858)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1858)
NOTHING
Roll 257, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1859)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1859)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1859)
NOTHING
Roll 258 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1859)
NOTHING
Roll 259 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1859)
NOTHING
Roll 260 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1859)
NOTHING
Roll 261, Vol 1 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1859)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1859)
NOTHING
Roll 262, Vol 1 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1859)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1859)
NOTHING
Roll 263, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1859)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1859)
NOTHING
Roll 264, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1860)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 29, 1860)
NOTHING
Roll 265, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1860)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1860)
NOTHING
Roll 266, Vol 1 (May 1 ‑ 11, 1860)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (May 12 ‑ 31, 1860)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (June 1 ‑ 15, 1860)
NOTHING
Roll 267, Vol 1 (June 16 ‑ 30, 1860)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (July 1 ‑ 14, 1860)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (July 15 ‑ 31, 1860)
From
Lieutenant David D. Porter, Portsmouth Navy Yard, 19 Jul 1860:
Understands that he is to be ordered
to take CONSTITUTION to Annapolis; requests permission to take his family with
him. [Request granted.]
From
Boatswain Zacheriah Whitmarsh, Beverly, MA, 23 jul 1860:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Boatswain Zacheriah Whitmarsh, Portsmouth Navy Yard, 25 Jul 1860:
Reports having reported for duty in
CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant Edward C. Grafton, Portsmouth Navy Yard, 26 Jul 1860:
Has reported for duty in CONSTITUTION.
Roll 268, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 16, 1860)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (August 17 ‑ 31, 1860)
From
Surgeon Charles Chase, Portsmouth Navy Yard, 24 Aug 1860:
Mentions
that "Surgeon [Andrew A.] Henderson" has "just returned here from
his temporary duty on board the Frigate Constitution."
From
Lieutenant David D. Porter, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Aug 1860:
"I should fail in my duty if I
permitted the men to be transferred from this ship (to another Sea going
vessel) without stating that rates of Seaman and ordinary Seaman had been given
to persons totally unqualified physically and professionally to perform the
duty ‑ in some instances weakly youth are rated Seamen, men who should
have been rejected are rated ordinary Seamen, and many of the landsmen are
worthless. Any ship would be crippled by
having some of these men added to her crew, and a great deal of trouble would
be entailed upon the Service by retaining them.
I respectfully enclose a list of them with recommendations in relation
to those I deem unfit for the Service, &c and who should receive a lower
rate or be discharged. I trust the
Dep't. will appreciate the motive which induces me to make this unusual
recommendation. The rewards held out are
fully adequate to procure a better Class of men than were sent here on an
occasion when it was necessary for the safety of a valuable ship to have able
bodied men who knew how to perform the duty for which they were pa[?].
"List
of men transferred from U. S. Ship Constitution with Recommendations relative
to their disposal
[Note:
The foregoing list appears to be a combination of Lieutenant Porter's reporting
and the notations of follow‑up activity. “H.D.” presumably means
“honorable discharge..]
Vol 3 (September 1 ‑ 16, 1860)
From
Paymaster J. D. Bruceford, USS PENNSYLVANIA, 14 Sep 1860:
Reports that the crew of CONSTITUTION
"have been transferred to this Ship without their accounts. A check with the Paymaster of OHIO found that
they had been ordered transferred from OHIO to the Naval Agent Baltimore. What is Department's intention? [Accounts transferred to PENNSYLVANIA.]
Roll 269, Vol 1 (September 17 ‑ 30, 1860)
From
Lieutenant George W. Rodgers, Naval Academy, 20 Sep 1860:
Reported this date for duty in
CONSTITUTION.
Vol 2 (October 1 ‑ 10, 1860)
From
Gunner Thomas P. Venable, Washington, DC, 4 Oct 1860:
Requests orders to CONSTITUTION. [Done.]
From Lieutenant George W. Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Oct 186
Requests his orders to the ship be
reissued with him designated as a Lieutenant Commanding in order to make his
status clear to all concerned. [No.]
From
Gunner Thomas P. Venable, Washington, DC, 9 Oct 1860;
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Gunner Thomas P. Venable, Annapolis, MD, 10 Oct 1860:
Has reported for duty in CONSTITUTION.
Vol 3 (October 11 ‑ 31, 1860)
From
Paymaster B. F. Gallaher, Washington, DC, 20 Oct 1860:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Paymaster B. F. Gallaher, Naval Academy, 25 Oct 1860:
Reported to the Academy this date.
Roll 270, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 13, 1860)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (November 14 ‑ 30, 1860)
From
Boatswain E. Kenney, Norfolk, VA, 26 Nov 1860:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Boatswain E. Kenney, Annapolis, MD, 27 Nov 1860:
Reported for duty in CONSTITUTION this
date.
Vol 3 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1860)
From
Sailmaker Samuel V. Turner, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Dec 1860:
Requests 20 days leave in order to
move his family from Norfolk to Annapolis.
[Granted.]
Roll 271, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1861)
From
Acting Midshipman Barron Carter, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Jan 1861:
In support of his resignation,
submitted 21 Jan 1861, reports his brother is his legal guardian and that he
has permission for his action from his living mother. [Resignation accepted; from Georgia, he was
appointed Master's Mate, CSN, 19 Jun 1861.]
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1861)
NOTHING
Roll 272 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1861)
NOTHING
Roll 273, Vol 1 (April 1 ‑14, 1861)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (April 15 ‑ 30, 1861)
From Carpenter Joseph E. Miller, Wilmington,
DE, 24 Apr 1861:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
CONSTITUTION.
From
Lieutenant G. W. Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Apr 1861:
"I am just about to sail for New
York with the Act'g Midn of the Academy.
Capt Blake spoke to me today of fort Adams Newport as a good place to
temporarily locate the Midn and asked me for information as to it's [sic]
capabilities for receiving them, before you decide on any place if you will
permit me immediately upon my arrival at New York to ascertain the conveniences
at Newport or some other place and report to you I can I think make such
arrangements as will be suitable in the meantime I can easily organize and
accommodate them on board ship."
From
Lieutenant G. W. Rodgers, New York, NY, 29 Apr 1861:
Reports the arrival of CONSTITUTION at
New York with 151 Acting Mid'n on board.
From
Sailmaker Benjamin B. Blydenburgh, New York, NY, 30 Apr 1861:
Has reported on CONSTITUTION this
date, having been twice to Perryville, MD, trying to learn where the ship was.
Roll 274, Vol 1 (May 1 ‑ 13, 1861)
From
Lieutenant Bush B. Taylor, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 May 1861:
Acknowledges receipt of detachment
orders; requests permission to allot $90/mo. to his family.
From
Lieutenant Edmund O. Matthews, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 May 1861:
Acknowledges receipt of detachment
orders transferring him to USS WABASH.
Vol 2 (May 14 ‑ 31, 1861)
From
Lieutenant George W. Rodgers, New York Navy Yard, 31 May 1861:
Has reported this date for duty in USS
SAVANNAH.
Roll 275, Vol 1
(June 1 ‑ 14, 1861)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (June 15 ‑ 30, 1861)
NOTHING
Roll 276, Vol 1 (July 1 ‑ 13, 1861)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (July 14 ‑ 31, 1861)
NOTHING
Roll 277, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 13, 1861)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (August 14 ‑22, 1861)
From
Lieutenant George W. Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Aug 1861:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to
report to Captain William L. Hudson in connection with the instruction of newly
appointed officers.
Vol 3 (August 23 ‑ 31, 1861)
From
Acting Midshipmen E. S. Dickman, P. H. Cooper. A. S. Crowninshield, C. H.
Craven, Ira Harris, Jr., W. K. Wheeler, C. McGregor, A. J. Clark, C. H.
Brantingham, G.
W. Coffin,W. W. Maclay, F. Morris, Wm Bainbridge Hoff, W. C. Wise,
Wm A. Van Vleck, Chas. H. Poor, Jr., A. S. Newlin, John D. Clark, S. Mallory, C.
G. Bush [deleted], Geo. B. Glidden, E. Buckmaster, C. H. Chester, R. P. Leary,
J. C. Pegram, Chas. J. Barclay, D. W. Mullan, Wm Hammett, Jr., Charles V.
Gridley, H. G. Cass, Nicoll Ludlow, J. M. Califf, A. H. Wright, W. O. Hoyle, G.
M. McClure, C. C. Clements, D. R. Cassel, F. A. Cook, Aug. G. Kellogg, F. Wildes,
C. D. Sigsbee, W. R. Hunter, Allan D. Brown, R. C. Irwin, J. B. Coghlan, Thomas
R. Brooks, J. C. McIlwain, L. Morris, Tom S. Dana, G. P. Vance, H. C. Taylor, T.
Williams, C. E. Clark, R. D. Evans, A. F. Brady, Wm H. Whiting, Jr., S. J.
Morris, J. H. Smith, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Aug 1861:
"We the undersigned, Acting
Midshipmen at the U. S. Naval Academy, respectfully state, that at the present
time, where our country demands the aid and assistance of everybody who is
capable of rendering such; it is very painful for us to be obliged to lead a
life of comparative inactivity at the city of Newport.
"We do not wish to flatter
ourselves by stating our accomplishments in the profession we have chosen, but
we can safely assert, that according to the opinion of our officers, we would
be as fully capable of discharging the duties of Midshipmen as those, which the
present crisis has so suddenly called into active service.
"Since we have entered the third
class, up to this time, our studies have been professional, and we dare say,
that owing to the actions of our officers and instructors, we have acquired
considerable knowledge of these.
"Our only wish now is that we may
be assigned a position, where we can be of some service to our country, and we
should be highly gratified to obtain active employment in the new vessels which
are now being added to our navy.
[Annotated
that they are to be commended for their zeal, but advised the service wishes
them to complete their education.]
Roll 278, Vol 1 (September 1 ‑ 10, 1861)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (September 11 ‑ 20, 1861)
NOTHING
Roll 279, Vol 1 (September 21 ‑ 30, 1861)
From
Lieutenant Edward P. Lull, Naval Academy, 24 Sep 1861:
Reports he has reported for duty at the
Academy.
Vol 2 (October 1 ‑ 8, 1861)
NOTHING
Roll 280, Vol 1 (October 9 ‑ 14, 1861)
From
Acting Midshipman Joseph S. Ross, Jr., USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Oct 1861:
Has tendered his resignation due to
continuing ill health. [Accepted.]
Vol 2 (October 15 ‑22, 1861)
NOTHING
Roll 281, Vol 1 (October 23 ‑ 31, 1861)
From
Lieutenant E. Orville Matthews, Newport, RI, 24 Oct 1861:
Requests orders to the Naval Academy
as his health renders him unfit for sea service. [So ordered, 28 Oct.]
From
Lieutenant E. Orville Matthews, Naval Academy, 30 Oct 1861:
Has reported for duty.
Vol 2 (November 1 ‑ 9, 1861)
NOTHING
Roll 282, Vol 1 (November 9 ‑ 19, 1861)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (November 20 ‑ 30, 1861)
NOTHING
Roll 283 (December 1 ‑ 10, 1861)
From
Acting Master Charles L. Huntington, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 Dec 1861:
Has been on duty at the Naval Academy
since the previous May, and wishes active sea duty. [Endorsed to the effect that his services are
needed at the Academy at this time.]
From
Acting Midshipman George N. Flagg, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Dec 1861:
Requests 8 days leave. [Annotated that no Midshipman is to have leave.]
Roll 284 (December 11 ‑ 20, 1861)
NOTHING
Roll 285 (December 21 ‑ 31, 1861)
NOTHING
Roll 286, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 10, 1862)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (January 11 ‑ 21, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 287, Vol 1 (January 22 ‑ 31, 1862)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 10, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 288, Vol 1 (February 11 ‑ 18, 1862)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 19 ‑ 28, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 289, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 10, 1862)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (March 11 ‑ 19, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 290, Vol 1 (March 20 ‑ 31, 1862)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 10, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 291, Vol 1 (April 11 ‑ 20, 1862)
NOTHING
Vol
2 (April 21 ‑ 30, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 292, Vol 1 (May 1 ‑ 10, 1862)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (May 11 ‑ 20, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 293, Vol 1 (May 21 ‑ 31, 1862)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (June 1 ‑ 10, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 294, Vol 1 (June 11 ‑ 20, 1862)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (June 21 ‑ 30, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 295, Vol 1 (July 1 ‑ 10, 1862)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (July 11 ‑ 20, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 296 (July 21 ‑ 31, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 297 (August 1 ‑ 10, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 298 (August 11 ‑ 20, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 299 (August 21 ‑ 31, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 300 (September 1 ‑ 10, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 301 (September 11 ‑ 20, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 302 (September 21 ‑ 30, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 303 (October 1 ‑ 10, 1862)
From
Gunner George Sirian, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Oct 1862:
Reports that he has reported for duty
at the Naval Academy.
Roll 304 (October 11 ‑ 20, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 305 (October 21 ‑ 31, 1862)
From
Paymaster H. M. Hieskell, Naval Academy, 27 Oct 1862:
Notes that SANTEE is now "one of
the school ships." [In addition to
CONSTITUTION, JOHN ADAMS, and MARION.]
From
Surgeon James C. Palmer, Naval Academy, 30 Oct 1862:
In reporting the need for additional
personnel with the arrival as a practice ship "on the same terms precisely
as the Constitution," he quotes a departmental order issued with regard to
CONSTITUTION issued on 25 Nov 1861: "The ship's complement of the school
ship Constitution, will be considered at 200 or over, and the Hospital Steward
on duty on board said vessel will be entitled to $33 per month." [Signed by Gideon Welles.] A similar order for SANTEE is requested.
Roll 306 (November 1 ‑ 10, 1862)
From
Acting Volunteer Lieutenant James P. Conthony, USS KINGFISHER, 7 Nov 1862:
In
a printed enclosure, CONSTITUTION is listed as being assigned the signal
letters "GQPK" in the "commercial code of signals for use of all
nations." When such signal letter
flags are hoisted, the ensign is "to be shown at the peak, over the Code
Pendant."
Roll 307 (November 11 ‑ 20, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 308, Vol 1 (November 21 ‑ 30, 1862)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 10, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 309, Vol 1 (December 11 ‑ 20, 1862)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 21 ‑ 31, 1862)
NOTHING
Roll 310 (January 1 ‑ 10, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 311 (January 11 ‑ 20, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 312 (January 21 ‑ 31, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 313 (February 1 ‑ 9, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 314 (February 10 ‑ 19, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 315 (February 20 ‑ 28, 1863)
From
Midshipman Samuel W. Very, Naval Academy, 24 Feb 1863:
Reports that, in response to orders
from Bull's Bay, SC, to the Academy, he was sent first to Cuba in a government
vessel in accordance with orders from Admiral Wilkes, then to Chelsea (MA) in a
merchantman, and finally to Newport. He
asks that he be reimbursed for the entire trip made under orders rather than
just for the last leg, which is all the secretary of the Academy will
authorize. Notes he is "to go on
the School Ship 'Constitution' today."
Roll 316 (March 1 ‑ 10, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 317 (March 11 ‑ 20, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 318 (March 21 ‑ 31, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 319 (April 1 ‑ 10, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 320 (April 11‑ 20, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 321 (April 21 ‑ 30, 1863)
From
Lieutenant Commander Edward P. Lull, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Apr 1863:
Acknowledges receipt of his commission
as a Lieutenant Commander.
Roll 322 (May 1 ‑ 10, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 323 (May 11 ‑ 20, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 324 (May 21 ‑ 31, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 325 (June 1 ‑ 10, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 326 (June 11 ‑ 20, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 327 (June 21 ‑ 30, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 328 (July 1 ‑ 10, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll
329 (July 11 ‑ 20, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 330 (July 21 ‑ 31, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 331 (August 1 ‑ 10, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 332 (August 11 ‑ 20, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 333 (August 21 ‑ 31, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 334 (September 1 ‑ 10, 1863)
From
Lieutenant Commander Edward P. Lull, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Sep 1863:
Acknowledges receipt of letter of 7
Sep alerting him to imminent sea duty orders.
Roll 335 (September 11 ‑ 20, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 336 (September 21 ‑ 30, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 337 (October 1 ‑ 10, 1863)
From
Sailmaker Benjamin B. Blydenburgh, Newport, RI, 4 Oct 1863:
Acknowledges receipt of orders
detaching him from CONSTITUTION. After 6
Oct, can be reached at New London, CT.
Roll 338 (October 11 ‑ 20, 1863)
From
Sailmaker Henry T. Stocker, Newport, RI, 12 Oct 1863:
Has reported for duty in CONSTITUTION.
Roll 339 (October 21 ‑ 31, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 340 (November 1 ‑ 10, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 341 (November 11 ‑ 20, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 342 (November 21 ‑ 30, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 343 (December 1 ‑ 10, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 344 (December 11 ‑ 20, 1863)
From
Lieutenant Commander Edward P. Lull, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Dec 1863:
Acknowledges receipt of detachment
orders this date; transferred to USS BROOKLYN.
Roll 345 (December 21 ‑ 31, 1863)
NOTHING
Roll 346 (January 1 ‑ 15, 1864)
From
Boatswain Edward Kenney, Newport, RI, 12 Jan 1864:
Acknowledges receipt of letter
detaching him from CONSTITUTION awaiting orders. Requests quick orders as he has a large
family to provide for, and that he be retained in CONSTITUTION until actually
ordered to sea. Would like orders to USS
LANCASTER in the Pacific.
Roll 347 (January 15 ‑ 31, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 348 (February 1 ‑ 14, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 349 (February 15 ‑ 29, 1864)
From
Boatswain Edward Kenney, Newport, RI, 22 Feb 1864:
Acknowledges receipt of orders
transferring him to USS SARANAC.
Roll
350 (March 1 ‑ 15, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 351 (March 16 ‑ 31, 1864)
From
Lieutenant Commander Philip C. Johnson, Jr., Naval Academy, RI, 25 Mar 1864:
Reported to the Academy this date.
Roll 352 (April 1 ‑ 15, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 353 (April 16 ‑ 24, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 354 (April 25 ‑ 30, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 355 (May 1 ‑ 10, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 356 (May 11 ‑ 21, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 357 (May 22 ‑ 31, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 358 (June 1 ‑ 10, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 359 (June 11 ‑ 20, 1864)
From
Lieutenant Henry F. Picking, Newport, RI, 15 Jun 1864:
Acknowledges receipt of orders
detaching him from the Naval Academy.
From
Carpenter Joseph E. Miller, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Jun 1864:
Acknowledges receipt of orders
detaching him upon his relief's arrival, for transfer to USS SUSQUEHANNA.
From
Carpenter John A. Dixon, Newport, RI, 18 Jun 1864:
Reported for duty this date.
Roll 360 (June 21 ‑ 30, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 361 (July 1 ‑ 10, 1864)
From
Paymaster Charles W. Abbott, Naval Academy, 2 Jul 1864:
Are the crews of CONSTITUTION and
SANTEE excluded from the "Pay Tables" annexed to General Order 36 [16
May 1864]?
Roll 362 (July 11 ‑ 20, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 363 (July 21 ‑ 31, 1864)
From
Gunner George Sirian, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Jul 1864:
Requests orders to USS VANDERBILT or
any other sea duty. [Done.]
Roll 364 (August 1 ‑ 10, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 365 (August 11 ‑ 20, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 366 (August 21 ‑ 31, 1864)
From
Carpenter John A. Dixon, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Aug 1864:
Requests sea duty.
Roll 367 (September 1 ‑ 10, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 368 (September 11 ‑ 20, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 369 (September 21 ‑ 30, 1864)
From
Sailmaker Henry T. Stocker, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Sep 1864:
Requests orders to USS COLORADO.
Roll 370 (October 1 ‑ 10, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 371 (October 11 ‑ 20, 1864)
From
Sailmaker Henry T. Stocker, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Oct 1864:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to USS
SAN JACINTO.
Roll 372 (October 21 ‑ 31, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 373 (November 1 ‑ 10, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 374 (November 11 ‑ 20, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 375 (November 21 ‑ 30, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 376 (December 1 ‑ 6, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 377 (December 7 ‑ 12, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 378 (December 13 ‑ 21, 1864)
From
Carpenter John A. Dixon, USSS CONSTITUTION, 20 Dec 1864:
Requests orders to sea duty. [Annotated: "Ordered. 27 Dec."]
Roll 379 (December 22 ‑ 31, 1864)
NOTHING
Roll 380 (January 1 ‑ 10, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll
381 (January 11 ‑ 20, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 382 (January 21 ‑ 31, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 383 (February 1 ‑ 10, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 384 (February 11 ‑ 20, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 385 (February 21 ‑ 28, 1865)
From
Lieutenant Commander C[lark] Merchant, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Feb 1865:
Acknowledges receipt of commission as
Lieutenant Commander.
Roll 386 (March 1 ‑ 10, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 387 (March 11 ‑ 20, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 388 (March 21 ‑ 31, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 389
(April 1‑ 10, 1865)
From
Lieutenant Commander P. C. Johnson, School Ships, Newport, RI, 4 Apr 1865:
Forwards the record of a summary court
martial held aboard USS CONSTITUTION the previous day.
From
Lieutenant Francis S. Brown, Naval Academy, 6 Apr 1865:
Has served at the
Naval Academy for
"over a year and a half."
Requests sea duty.
Roll 390 (April 11 ‑ 20, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll
391 (April 21 ‑ 30, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 392 (May 1 ‑ 7, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 393 (May 8 ‑ 16, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 394 (May 17 ‑ 31, 1865)
From
Lieutenant Francis S. Brown, Naval Academy, Newport, RI, 18 May 1865:
Acknowledges receipt of telegraphic
detachment orders reassigning him to USS DACOTAH,
Roll 395 (June 1 ‑ 15, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 396 (June 16 ‑ 30, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 397, Vol 1 (July 1 ‑ 17, 1865)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (July 18 ‑ 31, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 398, Vol 1 (August 1 = 14, 1865)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (August 15 ‑ 31, 1865)
From
Lieutenant Commander P. C. Johnson, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Aug 1865:
Forwards the following statement made
by Landsman James Henson against "Commander Carr, U. S. Navy:"
From
Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Charles W. Wilson, Executive Officer, USS
CONSTITUTION, 19 Aug 1865:
"James Henson, Landsman, now on
board this ship makes the following statement: during the month of July on or
about the 11th 1864. He enlisted in the
U. S. Naval Service in the City of
Washington DC. Was sent to the Receiving
Ship or Quarters at the Naval Station in that City.
"On the 19th of July he was to
receive $250 dolls [sic] bounty money.
The amount was laid before him by Comdr Carr U. S. Navy who requested
Henson to deposit $200 dolls with him, Comdr Carr assuring Henson before
leaving the Station he should receive the amount in full. Henson states that no receipt was given for
the money, and from that time up to the present has heard nothing from Comdr
Carr in reference to his claim."
[Witnesses: Assistant Surgeon S. F.
Shaw and Acting Ensign H. F. Tinkham.
Henson signed with an "X." No "Commander Carr" has
been found in available records.]
Roll 399 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 400, Vol 1 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1865)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1865)
From
Lieutenant Commander P. C. Johnson, USS CONSTITUTION, 4 Nov 1865:
Reports that Seamen John Young and
Arthur Munden of his ship state they enlisted at $20 per month, but that the
Academy Paymaster, Charles W. Abbott, will pay them only $18, saying the
current pay table does not apply to them (although he pays the higher rate to
seamen of other ships attached to the Academy).
Requests a determination in the case.
Vol 3 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1865)
NOTHING
Roll 401 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1866)
From
Lieutenant Commander P. C. Johnson, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Jan 1866:
Requests detachment at end of half
term and three months leave, with permission to leave the country. [Annotated: "Done. Jan 18/66."]
From
Lieutenant Commander P. C. Johnson, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Feb 1866:
Reports his detachment from the Naval
Academy; requests three months leave.
[Annotated: "Done. Feb. 17/66."]
Roll 403 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1866)
NOTHING
Roll 404 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1866)
NOTHING
Roll 405 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1866)
NOTHING
Roll 406 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1866)
NOTHING
Roll 407 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1866)
NOTHING
Roll 408 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1866)
NOTHING
Roll 409 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1866)
From
Mate G. Rogers, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Sep 1866:
Request 2 weeks leave from the 11th,
inst. [Done.]
Roll 410, Vol 1 (October 1 ‑ November 30, 1866)
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Oct 1866:
Forwards the proceedings of a summary
court martial held on board on 2 Oct.
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 31 Oct 1866:
Forwards the proceedings of a summary
court martial held on board on 29 Oct.
Vol 2 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1866)
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Nov 1866:
Forwards
proceedings of a summary court martial held on board 8 Nov.
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Nov 1866:
Forwards proceedings of a summary
court martial held on board this date.
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 12 Nov 1866:
Forwards proceedings of a summary
court martial held on board this date.
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 Nov 1866:
Forwards proceedings of a summary
court martial held on board the previous day.
Roll 411 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1866)
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Dec 1866:
Forwards proceedings from 3 summary
courts martial held on board that date.
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Dec 1866 [2nd ltr]:
Forwards proceedings from 3 summary
courts martial held on board on 6 Dec 1866.
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 19 Dec 1866:
Forwards the proceedings of a summary
court martial held on board the previous day.
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Dec 1866:
Forwards the proceedings of a summary
court martial held on board that day.
Roll 412 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1867)
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Jan 1867:
Forwards the proceedings of a summary
court martial held on board on 4 Jan.
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Jan 1867:
Forwards the proceedings of a summary
court martial held on board that day.
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Jan 1867:
Forwards the proceedings of a summary
court martial held on board on 12 Jan.
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Jan 1867:
Forwards the proceedings of 2 summary
courts martial held on board on 21 Jan.
Roll 413, Vol 1 (February 1 ‑ 28, 1867)
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 Feb 1867:
Forwards the proceedings of 3 summary
courts martial held on board on 4 Feb.
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Feb 1867:
Forwards the proceedings of a summary
court martial held on board on 6 Feb.
From
Passed Assistant Paymaster Robert R. Rodney, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Feb 1867:
Submits corrections to his statement
of service as it appears in the Naval Register.
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Feb 1867:
Forwards the proceedings of a summary
court martial held on board the previous day.
Vol 2 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1867)
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Mar 1867:
Forwards the proceedings of a summary
court martial held on board that day.
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Mar 1867:
Forwards the proceedings of a summary
court martial held on board the previous day.
From
Lieutenant Commander T. H. Eastman, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Mar 1867:
Forwards the proceedings of 2 summary
courts martial held on board on 14 Mar.
Roll 414 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1867)
NOTHING
Roll 415 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1867)
From
Mate William Dyer, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 May 1867:
Requests 30 days leave to visit his
ailing sister. [Granted.]
Roll 416 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1867)
From
Chaplain G. Williamson Smith, Naval Academy, 8 Jun 1867:
Submits his report of service for the
ending school year.
"...Daily Morning Prayers
"The session of the Naval Academy
opened with morning prayer, as required by the Regulations, October 1, 1866,
and daily morning prayers have been continued throughout the year. They have been held in the Chapel for the three higher classes and
on the ship 'Constitution' for the 4th class..." Chaplain W[illiam]. H. Stewart was his back
up.
"Sunday Services.
"The arrangements made last year
for Sunday servics have been continued.
Services have been held for the 4th class at 9 A.M., either in Chapel or
on ship. They were conducted by me until
December, when Chaplain Stewart was directed by the Superintendent to assume
their charge in order that the work might be more equally divided..." An 11 A.M. service in the Chapel was for upper classes and staff
families.
Roll 417, Vol 1 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1867)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (August 1 ‑ 31, !867)
NOTHING
Roll
418, Vol 1 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1867)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1867)
From
Mate Joseph Rodgers, USS CONSTITUTION, 2 Oct 1867:
Requests 30 days leave to visit family
in Newport, RI. [Done.]
Roll 419, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1867)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1867)
NOTHING
Roll 420, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1868)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 29, 1868)
NOTHIMG
Roll 421, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1868)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1868)
NOTHING
Roll 422, Vol 1 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1868)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1868)
From
Chaplain G. Williamson Smith, Naval Academy, 8 Jun 1868:
Presents his annual report of
activities. Morning prayers continued to
be said on board CONSTITUTION, at 7:15 or 7:45.
More than 25% of the midshipmen a "full members with some Christian
body." He officiated at the 3
funerals associated with the explosion of the steam yacht ALBEMARLE.
Roll 423, Vol 1 (July 1 ‑31, 1868)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1868)
From
Midshipman 4th Class Charles H. Crosswait, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Aug 1868:
Requests leave for month of September
to visit ailing mother. [Done.]
From
Midshipman 4th Class Charles H. Crosswait, 29 aug 1868:
Acknowledges receipt of leave
permission, but, because he has received news of her recovery, has decided to
remain at school.
Roll 424, Vol 1 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1868)
From
Midshipman F. Tyler, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Sep 1868:
Requests leave until 20 Sep. [Granted.]
From
Midshipman William D. Rosencrantz, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Sep 1868:
Requests leave until 20 Sep. [Granted.]
From
Midshipman L. Van Epps, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Sep 1868:
A former naval apprentice who has not
had leave, requests same until school reopens to visit his friends. [Granted until 20 Sep.]
From
Midshipman 4th Class William H. Sutherland, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Sep 1868:
Requests 10 days leave. Has been in service 14 months. [Granted.]
From
Midshipman 4th Class R. H. Galt, USS CONSTITUTION, 10 Sep 1868:
Requests leave until 20 Sep. [Granted.]
From
Midshipman 4th Class Arthur C. Smith, USS CONSTITUTION, 11 Sep 1868:
Requests sick leave until 30 Sep. (Is suffering from "intermittent
fever.") [Granted.]
Vol 2 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1868)
NOTHING
Roll
425, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1868)
From
Mate R. V. Wickes, USS CONSTITUTION, 26 Nov 1868:
Requests 5 days leave beginning 30
Nov.
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1868)
NOTHING
Roll 426, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1869)
From
Lieutenant Commander George Dewey, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Jan 1869:
Forwards the articles of agreement for
lately appointed Commanding Officer's Clerk Philip Rutter.
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 27, 1869)
NOTHING
Roll 427 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1869)
NOTHING
Roll 428, Vol 1 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1869)
From
Paymaster W. Goldsborough, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Apr 1869:
Requisitions funds for "the use
of the Ships at the Naval Academy except the Macedonian."
Vol 2 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1869)
NOTHING
Roll 429, Vol 1 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1869)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1869)
NOTHING
Roll 430, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1869)
From
Paymaster W. Goldsborough, USS CONSTITUTION, 31 Aug 1869:
Requisitions $15,000 for CONSTITUTION
"& ships" for the month of September.
Vol
2 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1869)
NOTHING
Roll 431 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1869)
From
Lieutenant Commander George Dewey, USS SANTEE, 11 Oct 1869:
Forwards oath and allegiance and
letter of acceptance of Captain's Writer William A. Jones of this ship.
Roll 432, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1869)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1869)
NOTHING
Roll 433, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1870)
From
Paymaster W. Goldsborough, USS CONSTITUTION, 5 Jan 1870:
Requests funds "for the Ships at
the Naval Academy" for the current month.
[Appears regularly through Jun 1871.]
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑28, 1870)
NOTHING
Roll 434, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑31, 1870)
From
Paymaster W. Goldsborough, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 Mar 1870:
Submits February returns for the
ships. [Appears regularly through May
1871.]
From
Lieutenant Commander George Dewey, USS CONSTITUTION, 14 Mar 1870:
Forwards record of summary court
martial in the case of Landsman Edward Williams.
Vol 2 (April 1‑ 30, 1870)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1870)
NOTHING
Roll 435, Vol 1 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1870)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (July 1 ‑ 31, 1870)
NOTHING
Roll 436, Vol 1 (August 1 ‑ 31, 1870)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1870)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1870)
From
Lieutenant Commander George Dewey, USS NARRAGANSETT, 13 Oct 1870:
In command of NARRAGANSETT.
Roll 437, Vol 1 (November 1 ‑ 30, 1870)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (December 1 ‑ 31, 1870)
NOTHING
Roll 438, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ 31, 1871)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (February 1 ‑ 28. 1871)
NOTHING
Roll 439, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1871)
From
Chaplain Henry B. Hibben, Naval Academy, 29 Mar 1871:
Requests to be detached on 12 Apr next
"from my present duty as Chaplain to the Constitution and other Ships in
connection with the Naval School."
Wants leave "for the remainder of this year." [Done.]
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1871)
NOTHING
Roll 440 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1871)
From
Passed Assistant Paymaster John Furcy, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Jun 1871:
Requests $5000 to pay crews of CONSTITUTION
and other ships at the Naval Academy.
[Requested $10,000 in Jul and $7000 in Sep 1871.]
Roll 441 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1871)
From
Lieutenant Commander H. L. Howison, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 Jul 1871:
Forwards the oath of allegiance and
letter of acceptance of Paymaster's Clerk James MacGregor of CONSTITUTION,
appointed 30 Jun.
From
Lieutenant Commander H. L. Howison, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Aug 1871:
Forwards "corrected papers"
on Paymaster's Clerk James MacGregor.
Roll 442, Vol 1 (September 1 ‑ 30, 1871)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (October 1 ‑ 31, 1871)
NOTHING
Roll 443 (November 1 ‑ December 31, 1871)
NOTHING
Roll 444 (January 1 ‑ February 29, 1872)
NOTHING
Roll 445 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1872)
NOTHING
Roll 446 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1872)
NOTHING
Roll 447 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1872)
NOTHING
Roll 448 (September 1 ‑ October 30, 1872)
NOTHING
Roll 449 (November 1 ‑ December 31, 1872)
NOTHING
Roll 450 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1873)
NOTHING
Roll 451 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1873)
NOTHING
Roll 452 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1873)
NOTHING
Roll 453 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1873)
NOTHING
Roll 454 (September 1‑ October 31, 1873)
NOTHING
Roll 455 (November 1 ‑ December 31, 1873)
NOTHING
Roll 456 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1874)
NOTHING
Roll 457 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1874)
From
Boatswain Edward Kenney, USS ST. LOUIS, 11 Apr 1874:
"...previous to the Removal of
the Academy from 'Annapolis' to 'Newport' I was orderd [sic] to the USS
'Constitution.' My family were then
living in 'Norfolk,' Virga. which was my 'home'. On account of the breaking out of the
Rebellion I was necessitated [sic] to remove my family to 'Annapolis', on this
account I was subjected to considerable loss and expense, (my family being
large, (nine children, nearly all girls)[.]
A short time after moveing [sic] my family to 'Annapolis', an order was
Received from the Navy Dept. to Remove the Academy to Newport R.I. All those attached to the Academy were
allowed to Remove the familys [sic] and furniture in the Govt. steamers. I being attached to the Constitution had to
go round in the ship, by an order from the Supdt. [sic] of the Academy my
family had to Remain until I could return for them. On the establishment of the Academy at
'Newport', I was granted leave to Return to 'Anapolis' [sic] for my family, with the Request to the
Col. Commanding to furnish me transportation in one of the Govt. steamers, for
my family, and furniture, there being no steamer I had again to Remove my
family at my own expense: to do this I was forced to sell some of my furniture,
and also to borrow money, to pay traveling expenses. On arriving with my family at 'Newport' I
found the expense of living very high, so much so that I was unable to settle
any of my liabilitys [sic] without distressing my family. When detached from the Station at 'Newport' I
immediately applied for Sea service, thinking my sea Pay would enable me to pay
some of my little debts. I was ordered
to the USS 'Saranac'; unfortunately for me, i found the 'Saranac' stationed in
the Harbor of San Francisco, Cal, where the officers were all paid
in'Greenbacks,' which not being current in San Francisco, each one had to take
their Pay on shore and sell it for 'Gold' to get enough money for necessary
expenses. Gold was selling at from 140
to 180. This reduced the value of my pay
considerable [sic], and made it difficult for me to send money enough home to
support my family. On this account my Wife was necessitated to contract other
little debts. Mr. Crandalls [sic]
statement is correct.. My Wife finding
it difficult to get along in 'Newport,' concluded it would be better to Remove
to 'Brooklyn' where she had friends, she notified Mr. Crandall that she was
going to move, and promised to pay the Rent as soon as she could. On my arrival home from the 'Saranac' I was
ordered to Philadelphia N. Yd. and had to again Remove my family. Since that time I have been unable to settle
Mr. Crandalls claim having had to settle other more pressing liability. I expect to be enabled in a short time to
send Mr. Crandall a part of the amount and the balance as soon after as
possible..."
Roll 458 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1874)
NOTHING
Roll 459 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1874)
NOTHING
Roll 460 (September 1 ‑ October 31, 1874)
NOTHING
Roll 461 (November 1 ‑ December 31, 1874)
NOTHING
Roll 462 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1875)
NOTHING
Roll 463 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1875)
NOTHING
Roll 464 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1875)
NOTHING
Roll 465 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1875)
NOTHING
Roll 466 (September 1 ‑ October 31, 1875)
NOTHING
Roll 467 (November 1 ‑ December 31, 1875)
NOTHING
Roll 468 (January 1 ‑ February 29, 1876)
NOTHING
Roll 469 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1876)
NOTHING
Roll 470 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1876)
NOTHING
Roll 471 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1876)
NOTHING
Roll 472 (September 1 ‑ October 31, 1876)
NOTHING
Roll 473 (November 1 ‑ December 31, 1876)
From
Boatswain J. Burrows and Mate Harry D. Setley, USS POTOMAC, 18 Dec 1876:
"We the undersigned in [sic]
behalf of the Steerage & Warrant Officers of this Ship, who are about to be
transferred to the USS 'Constitution,' would respectfully ask to be allowed to
form one mess on board that Vessel; owing to the fact that there are but few
members of each mess on board..."
[Annotated: "Authorize."]
Roll 474 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1877)
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Jan 1877:
Requests appointment of J. D. Minshall
as Paymaster's Clerk for the period Allowed for the settlement of his accounts
when attached to USS POTOMAC, from whence he had been transferred. [Approved.]
From
Ensign J. C. Colwell, USS CONSTITUTION, 25 Jan 1877:
Acknowledges receipt of his commission
as Ensign, dated 9 Jan 1877.
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Feb 1877:
Requests $8000 with which to pay
"Officers, Crew and Marines".
From
Ensign W. C. Heacock, USS CONSTITUTION, 27 Feb 1877:
Requests a one year leave of absence
beginning immediately. [No.]
Roll 475 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1877)
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 19 Mar 1877:
Requisitions $6000 with which to pay
"Officers, Crew and Marines."
Roll 476 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1877)
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 1 May 1877:
Forwards a new bond.
From
Paymaaster's Clerk R. C. Thompson and Captain's Clerk H. R. Beadle, USS
CONSTITUTION, 14 May 1877:
Wish to be exempted from the
department order of 3 Apr 1877 "by which the Officers of the Navy cannot
be paid for the months of April, May, and June" on the grounds that,
unlike officers, their names do not appear in the Naval Register and they are
subject to discharge at any time upon the detachment of their appointing
officers. [Denied. Order due to a deficiency in the
appropriation "Pay of the Navy."]
From
Paymaster C. A, McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 May 1877:
Requisitions $2500 with which to pay
"Crew and Marines."
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 May 1877:
Responds to a query that pay for the
"Lieutenant of Marines" was not included in his last requisition.
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Jun 1877:
Submits a new bond, as ordered.
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 13 Jun 1877:
Requisitions $1581.84 to pay Marines,
including the officer commanding, for the months of May and June.
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 21 Jun 1877:
Requisitions $3000 to pay the
"Crew only."
From
Master At Arms Henry O. Metires, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 Jun 1877:
On behalf "of the senior Petty
Officers of this vessel," requests they be issued certificates for the
amount of pay due them as of this date so they can support their families.
Roll 477 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1877)
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Jul 1877:
Requisitions $7000 with which to pay
"Officers, Crew, and Marines."
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 6 Aug 1877:
Requisitions $8000 with which to pay
"Officers, Crew and Marines."
From
Lieutenant C. A. Schultz, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Aug 1877:
"...On the morning of the 6th
inst. and order was received from the Department, mitigating the sentence of
Edward T. Murry [sic], Landsman, then serving one (1) month's confinement on board this Vessel, per
sentence of summary Court Martial.
"The order referred to mitigated
one (1) month's confinement, and as the original sentence of Murry was for one
(1) month's confinement only, he was of course immediately released from
confinement.
"At about 3.45 oclock PM the same
day, a telegram was received from the Department substituting the name of
George L. Dix 2d C Boy for Edward T. Murray Landsman.
"Murrqy having been released on
the order, I respectflly ask intructions if he is to be reconfined or not.
"I have the honor to transmit
herewith copies of the order and of the telegram referred to, marked
"A" & "B."
Enclosures:
A.
"The sentence of Edward T. Murray
[sic], Landsman, tried by Summary Court Martial, on USS Constitution July 18th
1877, is mitigated as follows: remission of the forfeiture of pay, and also of
one months confinement and of two months extra duty."
B.
"Correct
letter of (4th) fourth instant by inserting George L. Dix in place of Edward T.
Murray."
[Lieutenant
Schetky signed the basic letter "Comdg."]
Roll 478 (September 1 ‑ October 31, 1877)
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Sep 1877:
Requisitions $6000 with which to pay
"Officers Crew and Marines."
[Endorsed by "A. P. Cooke, Commander, Comdg."]
From
Ensign Winslow Allerdice, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Sep 1877:
Acknowledges his indebtedness to
Messrs Shannon Miller & Crane of New York and Dr. Pinkard of Annapolis,
saying he has made arrangements "to adjust the obligations."
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Oct 1877:
Requisitions $6000 with which to pay
"Officers, Crew and Marines."
Roll 479 (November 1 ‑ December 31, 1877)
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 17 Nov 1877:
Requisitions $6000 to pay
"Officers, Crew and Marines."
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 11 Dec 1877:
Requisitions $1424.78 to make up pay
deficiencies of 2nd quarter 1877.
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 15 Dec 1877:
Requisitions $6000 with which to pay
"Officers, Crew and Marines."
Roll 480 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1878)
From
Paymaster C. A. McDaniel, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Jan 1878:
Requisitions $7000 with which to pay
"Officers, Crew and Marines," as well as &103.02 for "pay
arrearages."
From
Master Henry T. Stockton, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Jan 1878:
Requests his Lieutenant's examination
"by the 30th January."
From
Acting Sailmaker Herman Hanson, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Jan 1878:
Requests his warrant as Sailmaker. ["Warranted. 25 Jany 1878."]
From
Sailmaker Herman Hanson, USS CONSTITUTION, 31 Jan 1878:
Acknowledges receipt of his warrant
dated 17 Jan 1876.
From
Paymaster Robert W. Allen, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Feb 1878:
Requests authority to draw bills of exchange
on the Department's financial agents in London.
[Done.]
From
Gunner Joseph Swift, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Feb 1878:
Requests permission to allot $100 for
his family. [Authorized.]
From
Ensign C. McR. Winslow, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Feb 1878:
Acknowledges receipt of his commission
as Ensign.
From
Ensign Alexander Sharp, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Feb 1878:
Acknowledges receipt of his commission
as Ensign.
From
Ensign Edward D. Bostick, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Feb 1878:
Acknowledges receipt of his commission
as Ensign.
From
Ensign Fidelio S. Carter, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Feb 1878:
Acknowledges receipt of his commission
as Ensign.
From
Lieutenant Edward W. Very, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Feb 1878:
Acknowledges receipt of orders to duty
with the American Commissioner at the Universal Exposition in Paris.
Roll 481 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1878)
From
Paymaster Robert W. Allen, USS CONSTITUTION, 16 Apr 1878:
Asks on what date Lieutenant Very's $6
per diem in connection with his orders to the Exposition should begin.
Roll 482 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1878)
NOTHING
Roll 483 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1878)
From
Yeoman James McClintock, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Jul 1878:
Requests waiver of "paragraph 6,
Page 89 of the U. S. Navy Regulations" in his behalf. [Unnecessary.]
From
Lieutenant Henry T. Stockton, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Jul 1878:
Acknowledges receipt of his
Lieutenant's commission, to rank from 2 Feb 1878.
From Ensign Alexander Sharp, USS CONSTITUTION,
29 Aug 1878:
Informs the Department that henceforth
his place of residence will be Yankton, Dakotah Territory.
Roll 484 (September 1 ‑ October 31, 1878)
From
Lieutenant Henry T. Stockton, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Oct 1878:
Requests orders as Naval Attache,
London.
From
Lieutenant Charles M. Thomas, USS CONSTITUTION, 30 OCT 1878:
[Is Acting Executive Officer.] Reports that Midshipman Templin M. Potts
served under him as Assistant Navigator from Jan until 3 Apr with "entire
satisfaction."
Roll 485 (November 1 ‑ December 31, 1878)
NOTHING
Roll 486 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1879)
NOTHING
Roll 487 (March 1 ‑ April 30, 1879)
NOTHING
Roll 488 (May 1 ‑ June 30, 1879)
From
Paymaster Robert W. Allen, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 May 1879:
Requisitions $25,000 for pay and other
expenses.
From
Lieutenant Commander William Henry Whiting, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 May 1879:
Reports that Cadet Midshipman J. M.
Orchard has performed excellently during the 17 months he has been aboard. [Whiting is Executive Officer.]
From
Lieutenant Commander William Henry Whiting, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 May 1879:
Reports his complete satisfaction with
the performance of Cadet Midshipman J. N. Jordan during the 17 months he has
been aboard.
From
Lieutenant Commander William Henry Whiting, USS
CONSTITUTION, 28 May 1879:
Reports his complete satisfaction with
the conduct of Cadet Midshipman O. G. Dodge during the 17 months he has been
aboard.
From
Lieutenant Commander William Henry Whiting, USS CONSTITUTION, 28 May 1879:
Reports his complete satisfaction with
the conduct of Cadet Midshipman W. V. Bronaugh during the 17 months he has been
aboard.
Roll 489 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1879)
From
Master F. H. Crosby, USS CONSTITUTION, 3 Jul 1879:
Requests reimbursement for official
travel. [Approved.]
From
Paymaster Robert W. Allen, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Jul 1879:
Submits travel claims for himself and
Assistant Paymaster Hoxsey covering the several trips they made between Le
Havre and Paris the preceding year to pay the Marine Guard assigned to the
International Exposition.
Roll 490 (September 1 ‑ October 31, 1879)
From
Lieutenant Charles M. Thomas, USS CONSTITUTION, 8 Sep 1879:
"I have the honor to return the
Department letter of commendation to James Horton Captain of Top, as he was
discharged from this vessel at his own request on the 26th day of June 1879, at
Philadelphia Penna. His address is James
Horton, care Mrs. Holmes, No. 1 Eliza Street, off Ashton Street, Oldham,
Lancashire, England." [Thomas signed
this letter "Lieutenant Commanding."]
From
1st Lieutenant Frank D. Webster, USMC, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Sep 1879:
Writes to explain his failure to
comply with a Department order of 11 Sep.
It seems he departed on a week's approved leave on 12 Sep, but failed to
leave his address. Unsuccessful efforts
were made to locate him, and so he failed to appear as ordered as a member of a
General Court Martial on the 15th. He
reported as soon as he was aware of the order, but the trial already had
closed.
Roll 491 (November 1 ‑ December 31, 1879)
From
Sailmaker Herman Hansen, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Nov 1879:
Requests permission to allot $75/mo.
of his pay. [Authorized.]
From
Gunner John R. Grainger, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Nov 1879:
Requests permission to allot $120/mo.
to his family. [Authorized.]
From
Schoolmaster John Bates, USS CONSTITUTION, 24 Nov 1879:
Requests permission to allot $20/mo.
to his wife Catharine in Philadelphia.
[Authorized.]
Roll 492 (January 1 ‑ February 29, 1880)
From
Lieutenant Clayton S. Richman, Commanding USS MONONGAHELA, to Captain O. F.
Stanton, USS CONSTITUTION, 23 Feb 1880:
[CONSTITUTION then at Colon,
Panama.] "In turning over to yor
command, the twenty two apprentice boys lately on board the 'Monongahela,' I
feel it a duty I owe them, to make their uniformly gentlemanly conduct and
general reliability a matter of record.
"During a tedious passage from
Mare Island to Aspinwall, stopping at Mexican and other principal ports, I had
an excellent opportunity to judge of their character [sic].
"Under the above circumstances,
deprived of the better food and comforts of a man of war, and with only their
personal pride and previous training to govern their actions, I am pleased to
state that, never at any time, was it necessary to reprove or caution them.
"During this trip we had a Gale
of wind, which rendered it adviseble [sic], if not necessary, that the
Passengers should assist the Crew on board, and in this duty, I can testify to
the Seamanlike and prompt manner in which, the boys, quietly made themselves
useful. As sails split or blew to
ribbons or as reefs were required, there were, invariably, more than could work
conveniently on the yards, and as the Saloons and Ladies' Cabins became flooded
they were as promptly bailed out, and all of this, in such a quiet and orderly
manner as to cause remark and praise, alike from the Officers of the Ship and
from passengers, many of the latter, doubtless being reassured and prevented
fromo being panic stricken, by the mere presence and assurance of the boys ‑. On the arrival of the Ship at Punta Arenas,‑
she being much behind time in
consequence of the destruction by the Storm, and having about Four
hundred Tons of Cargo to discharge, The [sic] boys accepted a proposition from
the Captain of the Ship, and, for a liberal compensation discharged the Cargo
in about half a day, putting it into lighters alongside at the average rate of
nearly three quarters of a ton per minute.
Thereby, enabling the ship to make her connection at Panama."
Roll 493, Vol 1 (March 1 ‑31, 1880)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1880)
From
Master Boynton Leach, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 Apr 1880:
Requests 2 weeks' leave from the 26th,
with permission to request a week's extension.
[Granted.]
From
Lieutenant J. B. Murdock, USS CONSTITUTION, 29 Apr 1880:
Acknowledges receipt of his Lieutenant's
commission, to rank from 10 Mar 1880.
Roll 494, Vol 1 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1880)
From
Lieutenant Commander Charles M. Thomas, USS CONSTITUTION, 20 May 1880:
Acknowledges receipt of his Lieutenant
Commander's commission, to rank from 1 Apr 1880.
Vol 2 (June 1
‑ 30, 1880)
From
Carpenter Henry Williams, USS CONSTITUTION, 7 Jun 1880:
Acknowledges receipt of his
Carpenter's warrant, ranking from 1 Jun 1880.
From
Midshipman J. K. Brice, USS CONSTITUTION, 9 Jun 1880:
Explains his reasons for tendering his
resignation, the principal one being "my discouraging prospects as to
promotion," but low pay at a time of "great business prosperity in
the country" also is a factor.
[Resignation accepted after a second tender on 20 Jun 1880.]
Roll 495 (July 1 ‑ August 31, 1880)
NOTHING
Roll
496 (September 1 ‑ October 31, 1880)
NOTHING
Roll 497 (November 1 ‑ December 31, 1880)
NOTHING
Roll 498, Vol 1 (January 1 ‑ February 28, 1881)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (March 1 ‑ 31, 1881)
From
Boatswain T. W. Brown, USS CONSTITUTION, 18 Mar 1881:
Requests permission to allot $75/mo.
to his wife, Annie J. Brown, for 2 years.
[Granted.]
Roll 499, Vol 1 (April 1 ‑ 30, 1881)
NOTHING
Vol 2 (May 1 ‑ 31, 1881)
NOTHING
Vol 3 (June 1 ‑ 30, 1881)
From
Ensign A. W. Dodd, USS CONSTITUTION, 22 Jun 1881:
Acknowledges receipt of commission as
Ensign, to date from 29 Mar 1881.
Rolls 500 through 517 (July 1, 1881
through December 31, 1884)
NOT
SEEN
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
The Captain's Clerk 1989, TGM |