II 1 r 1 I ■in ■li i i li * , *+ ++ ? %> ' V ^ % %4- A ^ A A*' - V s ^ ^ -^ A >5 ^ - 'A "<• sV f ^ -T. v ^ *> S° °^ ^ '% * ^ I M \,m J?* Hi; ;*§f r% ■ ' Illj§| iPi ^> j ( i'i 11'im'ifliiiiimi'iiiimiimtmitinmiiimmMlttniin'' mm m ip 9 , VV^ ;; THE NAVAL MONUMENT, / CONTAINING OFFICIAL AND OTHER ACCOUNTS OF ALL THE BATTLES FOUGHT BETWEEN THE NAVIES OF THE UNITED STATES AND GREAT BRITAIN DURING THE LATE WAR; r AND AN ACCOUNT OF THE WAR WITH ALGIERS. WITH TWENTY-FIVE ENGRAVINGS. TO WHICH IS ANNEXED A NAVAL RECxISTER OF THE UNITED STATES, REVISED AND CORRECTED, AND BROUGHT DOWN TO THE YEAR 1836. BOSTON: ^ ^«h^ PUBLISHED BY GEORGE CLARK. 1840. District of Massachusetts, to wit : District Clerk's Office. Be it remembered, that on the 12th Jay of March, A. D. 1816, and in the 40th year of the independence of the United States of America, ABEL BOWEN, of the said district, has deposited in this office the title of a book, the right whereof he claims as proprietor, in the words following, to nit : •■ The Naval Monument, containing official and other Accounts of all the Battles fought between the Navies of the United States and Great Britain, during the late War; and an account of the War tilth Algiers; with twenty-five Engravings. To ■winch is annexed a Naval Register of the United States." In conformity to an act of the Congress of the United States, entitled " An Act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of Maps, Charts and Books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies during the times therein mentioned; - ' and also to an act entitled "An Act supplementary to an act, entitled An Act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of Maps, Charts and Books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies during the times therein mentioned ; and extending the benefits thereof to the Arts of Design- ing, Engraving,* and Etching Historical and other Prints." JNO. W. DAVIS, Clerk of the district of Massachusetts. * The Designs and Engravings in this volume were entered, as the Ian directs, Nov. 25, and Da. 28, 1S15, by A. Bowen. •m* ** > TO THE OFFICERS OF THE UNITED STATES NAVY, WHO BY THEIR BRAVERY AND SKILL HAVE EXALTED THE AMERICAN CHARACTER, SECURED THE APPLAUSE OP THEIR COUNTRY, AND EXCITED THE ADMIRATION OF THE WORLD, THIS VOLUME IS MOST RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED, BY THEIR MOST OBT. AND HUMBLE SERVT., A. BOWEN. PREFACE That a country, but of yesterday among the nations, should already have acquired naval renown, and made the trident tremble in hands that had wielded it for ages, is now not least among the phenomena in the archh'es of history. Burke was astonished at the growth which, in his time, had happened to this country within the short period of the life of man. " Whatever England has been growing to, by a progressive increase of improvement, brought in by varieties of people, by successions of civilizing conquests and civilizing settlements, in a series of seventeen hundred years, you shall see as much added to her by America in course of a single life." Thus he supposes the genius of Lord Bathurst to have addressed* that noble- man in his youth, foretelling only what, at the moment of uttering this fine imagination, had become fact ; and yet to have left his Lord- ship altogether incredulous and in wonder. But what has not been the progress of this country since Burke's day, and still all within the compass of a single life ? America was then under the bonds of colonial subjection. Imagine, at the time he spoke, some sage, equally illustrious, had thus addressed the monarch of England: " Sire, these bonds she shall soon burst. You will struggle to impose others, and to force her sons to your service. They will resist, with a spirit so desperate, and an enterprise so hardy, as shall, 'before you taste of death,' make your ships not safe at home, even within your immedi- ate waters. Your navy, the favorite of your kingdom, that you have been centuries creating, shall strike, once and again, in single ships and in squadron, on the ocean and the lakes, in the old world and the new, to a navy, the outcast of its country, and the work of an hour. It will indeed be simply an upstart from its cradle, but you will find it a Hercules there." Had the sovereign then been thus prophetically " rapt into times" but little " future," rather than live to behold them, would he not gladly have resigned at once his crown and life ? Naval history has a charm on the attention of the ardent, from being peculiarly the record of enthusiasm. Every naval man of * The beginning of this address we supply for the gratification of what we consider laudable, a proper national pride. " Young man, there is America — which at this day serves for little more than to amuse you with stories of savage men and uncouth manners ; yet shall, before you taste of death, show itself equal to the whole of that commerce, which now attracts the envy of the world." VI PREFACE. .spirit is an enthusiast. We read of " the self-devoted Decii." Among naval men, self-devotion is so common, that an act, evincing this virtue merely, is passed almost without notice. It is looked upon as but duty, and therefore no object for praise. They devote themselves to their country and to their commander, with whom, in their minds, indeed, the country is often identified. This spirit per- vades not merely officers, but the men. Instances from British his- tory are familiar ; and the one from our own, of the sailor who inter- posed himself between the uplifted scymitar and Decatur, in the first Tripolitan war, and received the blow in its fall, of which he still lingers the living monument, is, we trust, indelibly riveted in the memory of a grateful country, who probably owe to this one act of heroism all the benefit of the subsequent signal services of this gallant captain. Here is disinterestedness that was perfectly pure, unadulterated even by the love of fame. What cared this mariner for fame ? His name scarcely is known ; and how soon it is every where forgotten, he heeds not. Nay, when all was over, had he not borne upon his body the marks of an act, which subjected him to the teasing of questions as to its cause, home this sailor had probably gone, and, like Samson of old, " told neither father nor mother of it." This utter extinction of selfishness, is it not sublime? The fear of death, according to Johnson, "natural to all," is, in this class of men, not merely completely overcome. Death is courted by them as glory, or sought from friendship. Is it owing to the progress of Christianity, gradually and insensibly improving and elevating the mass of mankind, that the virtues of our ordinary seamen have become thus exalted ? What a reform have men's ideas not undergone in the lapse of a few years? Chivalry of character has shifted its ele- ment. The world now looks for " men of honor," and for "cavaliers," not where it looked formerly. To the ocean, which was of late inseparably associated with everything boisterous and rough; the traversers of which were thought to participate only in the nature of the storms that occasionally desolate its surface ; to this ocean are the if mankind now universally directed for all that is valorous and gallant in war, and for much of the virtue thought peculiar to I Tin- habiliments of the knight are changed; and the plain- ness that most ennobles, has got to be (such are the caprices of fash- ion) the common, every-day dress of the mariner. The dawn of the American navy was ominous of a glorious day. Not to mention the other exertions at sea in the war of the revolu- tion,* which were all respectable, and, but for an eclipse from greater shew the notice Barney then gained, and the favor shown by fair royalty t the American cause, we add, as :i curiosity, what we do.not vouch for as fact. « A correi pondenl of the Morning Chronicle, who signed " Jean Francis," affirms, thai tin- musical bagatelle, called • Barney Itavi tin girls alone, 1 owes its origin to tin- 1,1 -. publicly bestowed on this American officer by the beautiful Marin Antoinette, and wai composed by ('emit <>'L. nfthe Irish brigade, whe was pres- ent mi court when the royal familiarity took place ; ami he stated, that the maids of ■ rto follow th< 'i- example set by the lovely queen, that .Mr Barney became U object of envy and dislike to the entire beau vionde. The Amwncan papers speak favorably of his conduct on the surprise of Washington, PREFACE. Vll brightness, would have remained brilliant ; the exploits of Paul Jones alone excited an eclat that ensured the whole extent of success, which has to this day followed. Truxton and the Constellation flashed next on the public eye. The scene of naval operations soon shifted to Tripoli. Here Preble was the father of a spirit that now reflects its radiance alike on his memory and country. The warfare was most active. It evinced enterprise the most ardent, and boldness the most daring. In these seas, nearly all the mariners, who have since been eminently distinguished, received their first rudiments of discipline and lessons of danger. The city thrice bombarded ; the only frigate the Turks took, and that, from her accidentally grounding, fired at the very mouths of their loaded batteries ; the infidels chas- tised into peace ; self-devotion animating our whole fleet as one band ; in the background of the picture, Somers, Israel, Wadsworth, kindling their own funeral pyre, and mounting in a blaze to the mansions of light ; these were among the objects which then attracted the attention of the world, and forced its admiration. We have just passed the close of a three years' War. The causes of that war out of the question, the interrogatory is put to the politician, to him who realizes that in the family of nations no one member has re- spect from another, but for its power ; to him the point is pressed home ; is not the effect of this war, in the impression produced the world over from the lustre of our arms, cheaply bought by all the blood and the treasure that the conflict has cost ? Is not our flag now looked up to, as an object of triumph, under every heaven ? Is not our navy covered with renown ? A good mind is ever grateful for peace. Justice to the merits that have achieved it, is to such a mind among the first of its duties. Has this renown then been justly acquired ? What are the constituents of naval excellence ? Bravery, discipline, military and nautical skill. In each of these respects, what are the positive merits, and what the comparative, of the American navy ? It is not intended to pursue the answer through details of any great minuteness. It will be rested- on the authority principally of this single volume, the references to which will, for the most part, be general. Bravery may be shown either in enterprise or in actual engage- ment ; as well in the pursuit, as the improvement, of opportunity ; in defeat not less than in victory. Bravery of enterprise certainly belongs in common to all of our captains, the oldest at their head, who bearded the lion in his den. They have even been blamed for excess in this particular, and the right of challenge has been absurdly questioned, as if in a strife of mere glory, and to settle the point as to power, it was not highly commendable to seek the opportunity indispensable for the purpose, but which yet happened not to fall in one's way. The challenge given by the Hornet, and that taken (for sailing across the harbor a.nd affirm, that of the seamen he commanded, one half were killed and wounded ; he was himself badly wounded and taken prisoner." — Brit. Nav. Chron. 1814. vih PREFACE. was clearly in substance a challenge) by the luckless Chesapeake, under circumstances of obvious disadvantage, before the sailors could have lost the effect of land habits, or have regained their sea legs, are among the countless proofs of an aspiring spirit, steadily iDtent on one object, namely, never at least to be condemned as failing from not having dared to attempt. Where is the instance in which Americans have not evinced brave- ry in battle ? The fatal engagement of the Chesapeake, even after the boarding, is not in fairness an exception. Not an officer was now left on deck. Who are the men, in any navy, that will continue valiant, deprived of the countenance and support of every officer ? Of the fights between single vessels, that of the Wasp and the Frolic is perhaps far the most distinguished for personal intrepidity. But we had battles in squadron. Who ever showed more courage than Perry, passing in open boat from ship to ship, within full view and point blank shot of a multiplied foe, each of whose ships was intent on taking his single life, as the object to make victory sur.e ; or than this same commander, breaking the enemy's line, thus doubling his own force, exposing himself of course to shots from each side, to double broadsides at once, and at half pistol shot distance? Who ever evinced greater constancy than Macdonough, awaiting at anchor the approach of an enemy in unknown numbers, by land and water, two states, if not the whole country, in suspense for safety on the issue, or who more glorious collectedness than this same commander in like danger with Paul Jones, his own vessel twice on fire ? What perseverance was ever more indefatigable than Chauncy's, in pursuit ? unless indeed that of his adversary, in patience. ADVERTISEMENT. Jn making this selection, the editor has endeavored to obtain the most correct and authentic accounts. He cannot, however, promise himself that every part of it is perfectly accurate ; hut he believes that no material error has escaped him. The difficulties of observing exact chronological order in a -work like this need not be mentioned, as they will readily occur to the reader. Perhaps some instan- ces of skill and valor have been overlooked, and others given too much at length. The official accounts of the battles represented in the plates are given entire. In many other instances, official letters are curtailed. To have printed them at large would have increased the work beyond the limits prescribed. This is offered as an apology for omitting what otherwise would gladly have been inserted. Many of the periodical publications of the last four years have been examined, but the compiler is particularly, and almost exclusively, indebted to the able and indeiit igable Mr. Niks, publisher of the Baltimore Weekly Register, a paper in which may be found a full aud interesting naval and military history of the late wars against Great Britain and Algiers. The pages of this work might have been enriched with extracts from the Analectic Magazine and Naval Chronicle ; but this is rendered unnecessary by the extensive circulation of that eloquent and excellent work. Whoever wishes to be instructed or delighted on the subject of the American navy, may have his curiosity fully gratified by a perusal of those publications. The editor cannot but indulge the hope, that he has fulfilled the engagements made in the prospectus, and equalled the expectations of subscribers. Should he meet the approbation of the public, he intends to publish a military history of the war, on a similar plan, entitled the Military Chronicle. Most of ihe engravings which accompany this volume are from the designs of Mr. Come. The frontispiece was designed by Mr. Penniman. The plate which exhibits the return of the squadron from the Mediterranean, is from a design of Mr. Fanning, and was taken from actual survey on board the Independence. For the Preface the editor is indebted to the kindness of a literary gentleman, who has furnished to our periodical publications many interesting articles on the subject of the navy. A g INDEX TO THE ENGRAVINGS Frontispiece, facing the title Page ' Constitution's Escape from a British Squadron 1 Constitution bearing down for the Guerriere . .10 Constitution in close action with the Guerriere 12 Wasp boarding the Frolic , 16 United States and Macedonian 23 The Java surrendering to the Constitution 28 Hornet blockading the Bonne Citoyenne 37 Hornet sinking the Peacock ' 38 Chesapeake and Shannon 44 Enterprise and Boxer . 77 First view of Com. Perry's Victory 85 Second view of Com. Perry's Victory 86 Capture of the Essex 106 Peacock and Epervier 128 Wasp and Reindeer 134 Wasp and Avon 140 Com. Macdonough's Victory 145 [President engaging the Endymion 158 Constitution taking the Cyane and Levant 174 Hornet and Penguin . 186 Hornet's Escape from a British 74 192 United States Squadron returning from the Mediterranean, after concluding peace with Algiers 279 \ NAVAL MONUMENT. The exploits of the American Navy in the late war between the United States and Great Britain, com- menced with the escape of the Frigate Constitution from an English squadron. On July 12th, the Constitution, completely equipped and well manned, left the Chesapeake, bound to New York. On the 16th, saw a frigate and gave chase, with winds too light to reach her. On the 17th dis- covered the British squadron, consisting of the Africa 64, and Guerriere, Shannon, Belvid&ra* and JEolus, frigates, a brig and a schooner. The Belvidera with- in gun-shot. The 17th was calm and spent in towing, maneuvering and firing. On the morning of the 18th a light breeze sprung up, when the Constitution spread all her canvas, and by outsailing the enemy, escaped a conflict, which she could not have maintained with any hope of success, against a force so greatly superior. The chase was continued sixty hours, during which the whole crew remained at their stations. A gentleman, belonging to an American captured vessel, who was on board the Shannon, during the above period, informs us, that all the officers of the British squadron applauded the conduct of Capt. Hull; and though mortified at losing so fine a ship, gave him much credit for his skill and prudence in managing the frigate. A more particular account is detailed in the follow- ing extract from the Constitution' s log book. EXTRACTS FROM LOG BOOK. Friday, July 17, 1812. Commences with clear weather and fresh breezes from the northward and eastward. At % past 1, P. M., sounded in 22 fin's, water. At 2, four sail of vessels in sight. At 3, sounded in 18 $ fm's. At 4 NAVAL MONUMENT. past 3, tacked to the east. At 4, a ship in sight, bearing N. E. standing down for us, and three ships and a brig N. N. W. on the starboard tack. From 4 to 6, lighl airs from the northward. At 6, the single ship bearing E. N. E. At * past 6, got a light breeze from the southward and eastward, wore ship and and stood towards the above sail, keeping her a little off the larboard bow. At i past 7, beat to quar- ters and cleared ships for action. At 8, light airs ; — coming up with the ships very slow. At i past 10, made the private signals of the day. At I past 11, hauled down the signals, not having been answered, and made sail by the wind, with starboard tacks on l><»ard. From 12 to 4 A. M. light airs from the south- ward and westward and cloudy. At 4 A. M. the ship made a signal. At day-light, discovered three sail astern. At 5, discovered another sail astern, making two frigates off our lee-quarter, and two frigates and one ship of the line, one brig, and one schooner, astern. At i past 5, it being calm and the ship having no steering way, hoisted out the first cutter and got the boats ahead to tow ship's head round to the southward, ►1 a 21 pounder up off the gun-deck for a stern-gun, and the forecastle gun aft— cut away thetarfarel to give them room, and run two guns out of the cabin windows. At (J, got the ship's head round to the southward and set top-gallant studding-sails and stay-sails, one of the frigates firing at us. At* past 6, sounded in 26 fnrs. water. At 7, got a kedge and warped the ship .ahead. At \ prist. 7, hoisted the colours and fired one gun at the ship astern, At 8, calm; — employed warping and towing tli*- ship. The other ships having a light air gaining on us, with their boats ahead, and one of them using sweeps. At 9, the above ship in close chase of if-, and the nearest frigate gaining on us. At 9 minutes past 9, a light breeze sprung from the south- ward ; braced up by the wind on the larboard tack, when the above frigate commenced firing, but her shot did not reach u> ; got the boats along side, run two of them up. At 10, started 2335 iialfons of water and NAVAL MONUMENT. 5 pumped it out — almost calm — manned the first cutter to tow ship ; — six sail of the enemy's ships off the star- board beam and quarter; perceived that the nearest frigate had' got all the boats from the Other, ships to tow her towards us. From 10, A. M. to meridian, employ- ed warping and towing. All sail made by the wind, one of the ships coining up, apparently having all the boats from the other ships. Saturday, July 18 Light airs from the southward and eastward, at- tended with calms. At J after meridian, sent the first cutter and green cutter ahead to tow ship. At £ before 1, P. M. a strange sail discovered two points abaft off the lee-beam, the four frigates one point off the starboard-quarter. Line-of-battle ship, brig and schooner, off the lee-beam. At 7 minutes before 2, the chasing frigates commenced firing their bow chase guns, we returned them with our stern chasers. At £ past 3, still chased by the above ships, one of them being nearly within gun-shot. At 7, observed the enemy's ships towing with their boats. Lowered down the first cutter, green cutter and gig, and sent them ahead to tow ship ; — light airs, inclinable to calms. At 8, light airs from the southward and eastward. The first and fifth cutters and gig ahead towing ship. The enemy's ships in the same position as at 7. From 8 to 9, light airs and cloudy. The enemy's ships still in chase of us ; boats ahead towing ship. At 7 minutes before 11, a breeze springing up from the southward ; boats came along side, hoisted up the gig and green cutter, and set the fore-top-mast staysail and main-top- gallant studding sail. At midnight moderate breezes and cloudy, the enemy's ships slill in chase. At 2, A. M. discovered one of the ships off the lee-beem. At £ past 2, took in the studding sails, at daylight four frigates in sight, three off the lee-quarter and one off the lee-beam, from two to three miles distant. At 4, six sail in sight from off the deck, hauled down thejbre- top-mast staysail ; — very light breezes. At 20 minutes O NAVAL MONUMENT. past 4, tacked ship to the eastward. At 5, passed about gunshot distance to windward of one of the frigates , hoisted in the first cutter ; — ten sail in sight from the mast-head. At 9, saw a ship to windward, supposed to be an American merchantman, standing towards us. The frigate astern hoisted American colours as a de- coy ; we immediately hoisted English colours, got roy- al studding sails fitted. At 11, A. M. took in sky-sails. At meridian, moderate breezes and pleasant weather, rather leaving the frigates in chase ; the head-most frigate to lee-ward, bearing nearly N. by W. four or five miles distant, the nearest frigate W. N. W. di- rectly in our wake, distant about three and half miles. The line-of-battle ship, N. by W. i W. on the lar- board tack, hull down. Two frigates off our lee- quarter, N. N. W. £ W. and N. W. by N. about five miles distant, and a brig bearing ubout N. by W. Observed, latitude 38° 47 '■ N. which, with the sound- ings got at h past 10, A. M. and allowing for the distance since run, gives our long, about 73° 53 r W. from which we date our departure. July 19. Fresh breezes from the southward and pleasant. At 1 P. M. hauled down the royal staysails and set the middle staysail. At 2, got shifting backstays on the top-gallant mast, and set them well up, took in the gaft-topsail and mizen-top-gallant staysail. At £ past 2, set the mizen-top-gallant and main royal stay- sails and main skysail. At 4, a moderate breeze from the S. S. W. and cloudy ; four sail of the enemy still in chase, the nearest about six miles off, bearing N. N. W. and one off the weather quarter, W. by N. I N. At I past 7, the leewardmost ship N. N. W. h W. and the weathermost ship, N. W. by 4 W. — the oth- er two more astern, and hull down. At * past 9, the wind hauled round to the southward and west- ward. At h 10 P. M. the wind backed round again. At 11, could just discover the weather-bow ship to have got in our wake. At midnight, moderate breezes NAVAL MONUMENT. 7 and pleasant. From midnight to 4 A. M. moderate breezes. At 1-2 past 4, hauled up to S. E. by S. four sail in sight astern, all of them hull down. At 1-2 past 6, more moderate ; — employed wetting the sails aloft. At 8, four ships still in sight chasing us. At 1-2 8 A. 31. all the ships in chase stood to the northward and eastward. CAPT. HULL'S OFFICIAL LETTER. Constitution at sea, off Nantucket, Sir, July 20, 1812. The Constitution is on her way to Boston for your orders, having been chased by a British squadron off New- York, and very near being taken. The chase continued three days and nights, by a line-of-battle ship, four frigates, a brig and a schooner. I shall call off Boston and write from there, and continue crusing in the bay until I hear from you. Respectfully, Hon. Paul Hamilton, ISAAC HULL. Sec'y of Navy. On Sunday, the 26th of July, the Constitution ar- rived in Boston harbour. On Tuesday the 28th, Capt. Hull came up to town. On 'his landing and reaching State Street, he was received by his fellow citizens with repeated huzzas. ■m [The following card was inserted, at the request of Capt Hull, in the Exchange Coflee-House Books.] "Capt. Hull, finding his friends in Boston are correctly informed of his situation when chased by the British squadron off New-York, and that they are good enough to give him more credit by escaping them than he ought to claim, takes this opportunity of requesting them to make a transfer of a great part of their good wishes to Lt. Morris, and the other brave officers, and the crew under his command, for their very great exertions and prompt attention to orders while the enemy were in chase. Capt. Hull has 8 NAVAL MONUMENT. great pleasure in saying, that notwithstanding the length of the chase, and the officers and crew being deprived of sleep, and allowed but little refreshment during the time, not a murmur was heard to escape them. Interesting particulars. Capt. Hull, in the management of his ship, during her chase by the squadron under Com. Broke, dis- played the most skilful and accomplished seamanship. At a time when the wind was very light, the sails of the Shannon were all furled, and the boats of the squadron were all put to tow her directly to windward toward the Constitution; at the same time Capt. Hull was kedging his ship forward faster than the enemy was able to advance by towing ; he had gained a considerable distance, before the enemy, who were constantly observing him with their glasses, perceived the manner in which he was leaving. They then kedged in their turn, but not with the same rapidity, owing probably in some measure to the precaution observed by Capt. Hull, when his boats came home, instead of making them fast to the ship, of hoisting them up at the davids. This manoeuvre of hedging a ship at sea, in 25 or 30 fm's. water, was an ingen- ious and novel experiment ; it was first suggested, it is understood, by Lieut, [now Com.] C. Morris. When the squall struck the Constitution, by which she ultimately escaped, Capt. II. availed himself of another stratagem to gain time. He was to windward — the squall was powerful, and pressed her huge side low in the water ; he immediately let every thing go by the run, apparently in the utmost confusion, as if unable to show a yard of canvass — his sails were haul- ed up by the brails and clewlines ; the enemy, per- ceiving this, hastened to get every thing snug, before the gust should reach them : — but, no sooner had they got their sails furled, than Capt. Hull had his courses and topsails set, and the Constitution darted forward with great rapidity. So coolly however did he pro- NAVAL MONUMENT. V ceed, that he would not suffer one of his boats to be cut adrift, but, though pressed by a pursuing enemy, attended personally to hoisting in his launch and other boats, while the ship was going nine or ten knots through the water. This is a fact which will appear astonishing to a sailor ; and he seemed to be the only person in the ship who conceived it feasible : — the British squadron cut adrift all their boats, and, after they abandoned the chase, spent two or three whole days in cruising to pick them up. CAPTURE OF THE NAUTILUS. Soon after the escape of the Constitution, the U. S. brig Nautilus, 12 guns, Lt. Crane, was captured by the above British squadron. The following letter is honorary to Lt. Crane: The Sec. of the navy to Lt. Crane, late of the Nautilus. Sir, Navy department, 1 Oct. 1812. The following is the opinion of the court of inquiry, convened agreeably to your request, for the loss of the U. S. brig Nautilus. The court were unanimously and decidedly of opin- ion, that in the capture of the late U. S. brig Nautilus, Lieut. Crane, her late commander, and his officers, are entirely free from the least blame, or censure, and do consider Lt. Crane did every thing to prevent said capture, that a skilful and experienced officer could possibly do. This opinion of the court, Sir, only confirms the impression confidently entertained with respect to your conduct on the occasion, to which it refers. I have the honour to be respectfully, Sir, your ob't serv't, WilliamM. CRANE,Esq. PAUL HAMILTON. of the navy, Boston. CONSTITUTION AND GUERRIERE. U. S. Frigate Constitution, off Boston Light, Sir, August 30, 1812. I have the honor to inform you that on the 19th 2 10 NAVAL MONUMENT inst. at 1 P. M. being in hit. 41° 42' and long. 55° 48' , with the Constitution under my command, a sail was discovered from the mast head bearing E. by S. or E. S. E. but at such a distance we could not tell what she was. All sail was instantly made in chase, and soon found we came up with her. At 3 P. M. could plainly see that she was a ship on the starboard tack under easy sail, close on a wind ; at & past 3 P. M. made her out to be a frigate ; continued the chase un- til we were within about three miles, when I ordered the light sails to be taken in, the courses hauled up, and the ship cleared for action. At this time the chase had backed his maintop-sail, waiting for us to come down. As soon as the Constitution was ready for action, I bore down with intention to bring him to close action immediately ; but on our coming within gun-shot she gave us a broadside and filed away, and wore, giving us a broadside on the other tack, but with- out effect ; her shot falling short. She continued wear- ing and maneuvering for about three quarters of an hour, to get a raking position, but finding she could not, she bore up, and run under her top-sails and gib, with the wind on her quarter. I immediately made sail to bring the ship up with her, and five minutes before 6 P. M. being along side within half pistol-shot, we commenced a heavy fire from all our guns, double shotted with round and grape, and so well directed were they, and so warmly kept up, that in 15 minutes his mizen mast went by the board, and his main yard in the slings and the hull, rigging, and sails very much torn to pieces. The fire was kept up with equal w armth for 15 minutes longer, when his mainmast and foremast went, taking with them every spar, excepting the bowsprit. On seeing this we ceased firing, so that in thirty minutes after, we got fairly along side the enemy; she surrendered, and had not a spar stand- inir, and her hull below and above water so shattered, that ;i few more broadsides must have carried her down. After informing you, that so line a ship as the Guer- rierc, commanded by an able and experienced officer, NAVAL MONUMENT. 11 had been totally dismasted, and otherwise cut to pieces so as to make her not worth towing into port, in the short space of thirty minutes, you can have no doubt of the gallantry and good conduct of the officers and ship's company I have the honor to command ; it only remains therefore for me to assure you, that they all fought with great bravery ; and it gives me great pleasure to say, that from the smallest boy in the ship to the oldest seaman, not a look of fear was seen. They all went into action, giving three cheers, and requested to be laid close along side the enemy. Enclosed I have the honor to send you a list of kil- led and wounded on board the Constitution, and a re- port of the damages she has sustained ; also a list of killed and wounded on board the enemy, with his quar- ter bill, &/C. I have the honor to be, with very great respect, Sir, your ob't servt, Hon. Paul Hamilton, &c. ISAAC HULL. Return of hilled and wounded on board the U. S. Frigate Constitution, Isaac Hull Esq. Captain, in the action ivith H. M. ship Guerriere, Jas. R. Da- cres, Esq. Captain, on the 20lh day of Aug. 1812. Killed — Wm. S. Bush,* 1st Lt. marines ; Jacob Sago, seaman ; Robert Brice, do ; John Brown, do ; James Read, do.; Caleb Smith, do.; James Ashford, do. Wounded — Chas. Morris, 1st Lt. dangerously; John C. Alvvyn, master, slightly ; Richard Dunn, seaman, dangerously ; Geo. Reynolds, ord. seaman, dangerously; Daniel Lewis, do. dangerously; Owen Taylor, do. dangerously; Francis Mullen, marine, slightly. Recapitulation. Killed — One Lt. of marines and six seamen. — Total killed 7. * Lieut. William S. Bush, was a native of Wilmington (Delaware.) His father, Capt. John Bush was a meritorious officer in the revolutionary war, and he was the nephew of the brave Major Lewis Bush, who fell supporting the cause of h:S country at the battle of Brandywine. 12 NAVAL MONUMENT. Wounded — Two officers, four seamen and one ma- rine. Total wounded 7. Total killed and wounded, 14. ISAAC HULL, Capt. U. S. Frigate Constitution, T. J. CHEW, Purser. Aug. 21, 1812. List of killed and wounded on board the Guerriere. Killed — H. Ready, 2d Lt. and fourteen petty of- ficers, seamen and marines. Wounded — James R. Dacres, Capt. ; Bart. Kent, Lt. ; Robert Scott, master ; Samuel Grant, master's mate ; James Enslie, midshipman, and fifty seven pet- ty officers, seamen and marines. Missing — Lt. James Pullman, Mr. Gaston, and twenty two seamen and marines. The following particulars of the action, are com- municated by an officer of the Constitution, and may be considered as essentially correct. Lat. 41* 42' N. Ion. 55° 33' W. Thursday, Aug. 20, fresh breeze from N. W. and cloudy ; at 2 P. M. discovered a vessel to the southward, made all sail in in chase ; at 3, perceived the chase to be a ship on the starboard tack, close hauled to the wind; hauled S. S. W.; at A past 3 made out the chase to be a frig- ate ; at 4, coming up with the chase very fast; at £ be- fore 5, the chase laid her main-top-sail to the mast ; took in our top-gallant-sails, stay-sails and flying-gib; took a second reef in the top-sails, hauled the courses up, sent the royal yards down, and got all clear for ac- tion ; beat to quarters, on which the crew gave three cheers ; at 5 the chase hoisted three English ensigns, at 5 minutes past 5 the enemy commenced firing ; at 20 minutes past 5, set our colours, one at each mast- In ad, and one at the mizen-peak, and began firing on the enemy, and continued to fire occasionally, he wear- ing very often, and we manocuvering to close with him, and avoid being raked ; at G set the main-top-gallant sail, the enemy having bore up; at 5 minutes past six, USUI H o o 521 "gg H H H O 3 o o o H i— < O m H W o cj w I— H w NAVAL MONUMENT. 13 brought the enemy to close action, standing before the wind ; at 15 minutes past 6, the enemy's mizen-mast fell over on the starboard side ; at 20 minutes past 6, finding we were drawing ahead of the enemy, luffed short round his bows, to rake him ; at 25 minutes past 6, the enemy fell on board of us, his bow-sprit foul of our mizen rigging. We prepared to board, but im- mediately after, his fore and main mast went by the board, and it was deemed unnecessary. Our cabin had taken fire from his guns ; but soon extinguished, without material injury ; at 30 minutes past 6, shot ahead of the enemy, when the firing ceased on both sides ; he making the signal of submission by firing a gun to leeward ; set fore-sail and main-sail, and haul- ed to the eastward to repair damages ; all our braces and much of our standing and running rigging and some of our spars being shot away. At 7 wore ship, and stood under the lee of the prize — sent our boat on board, which returned at 8, with Capt. Dacres, late of his Majesty's ship Guerriere, mounting 49 car- riage guns, and manned with 302 men ; got our boats out and kept them employed in removing the prisoners and baggage from the prize to our own ship. Sent a surgeon's mate to assist in attending the wounded; wearing ship occasionally to keep in the best position to receive the boats. At 20 minutes before 2 A. M. discovered a sail off the larboard beam, standing to the south ; saw all clear for another action : at 3 the sail stood off again ; at day light was hailed by the Lieut, on board the prize, who informed he had four feet of water in the hold, and that she was in a sink- ing condition ; all hands employed in removing the prisoners, and repairing our own damage through the remainder of the day. Friday the 21st, commenced with light breezes from the northward, and pleasant ; our boats and crew still employed as before. At 3 P. M. made the signal of recal for our boats, having received all the prisoners. They immediately left her on fire, and i past 3 she blew up. Our loss in the action was 7 killed and 7 wounded ; among the 14 NAVAL MONUMENT. former, Lieut. Bush, of marines, and among the lat- ter, Lieut. Morris, severely ; and Mr. Aylwin, the master slightly. On the part of the enemy, 15 men killed, and 64 wounded. Among the former, Lieut. Ready, 2d of the ship ; among the latter, Capt. Da cres, Lieut. Kent, 1st, Mr. Scott, master, and master's mate. During her short cruise, the Constitution, beside the above gallant achievement, has destroyed two En- glish brigs ; one with lumber, the other in ballast, and recaptured the Adeline of Bath, from London, with dry goods, which had been taken by the British sloop Avenger, Capt. Johnston, of 16 guns ;— and which Capt. Hull manned and ordered for America. When the Guerriere first came in sight of the Con- stitution, she stood toward her as if with an intention of bringing her to immediate action, and the latter put herself under easy sail for her reception : but after ap- proaching sufficiently near, to observe her with accu- racy, she bore up, stood broad off from the wind, and seemed inclined to take French leave ; Capt. Hull was compelled to crowd a press of sail upon his ship in or- der to overtake his antagonist, who when he got with- in gun-shot, commenced a cannonade; not a gun was returned from the Constitution, whose men were cool- ly turned up to reef topsails, send down top-gallant yards and swing the lower yards with chains ; this bu- siness being effected with deliberation and precision under a galling fire from the enemy, and without her- self returning a single shot, the Constitution was ran- ged along side of the enemy, and her fire opened with such terrible effect, that in 25 minutes the Guerriere was demolished ! When the Guerriere' s mizen mast was shot away, Capt. H. in the enthusiams of the moment, swung his hat round his head, and in true sailor's phraze, ex- claimed, "Huzza ! my boys! ivehave made a brig of her ! ' ' It is well known that when Lieut. Bush of the ma- rines received his mortal wound, the Guerriere' show- NAVAL MONUMENT. 15 sprit was engaged in the mizen rigging of the Consti- tution, and\he was on the quarter for the purpose of boarding. Lieut. Morris was in the same situation, and received a musked ball through his body. Capt. Hull was about joining them for the same purpose, and when stepping upon the armchest, he was drawn back by a sailor, who begged he ivould not get up there unless he took off those swabs, pointing to his epaulets. At that moment the two ships were so near together, that one of our sailors, having discharged his boarding pistol, and missed his object, threw the pistol itself, and struck him in the breast. The flag being shot away from the Constitution's main-top-gallant mast head, John Hogan, a young sai- lor, ascended amid a shower of bullets and lashed it to the mast. This brave fellow enjoys a pension for his intrepidity. Lieutenant, (now Com.) Morris, has since been promoted to the command of the frigate Adams, of 32 guns. He has ever been distinguished in the navy for his unremitted application in the acquirement of nautical information ; for activity, intelligence, and zeal in the faithful discharge of his duty. His gallant conduct, while under Commodore Preble, in the Tri- politan war, gained him the confidence of his com- mander, the admiration of his companions in arms, and the applause of his countrymen. He was the first man who gained the deck of the frigate Philadelphia, on that ever memorable night, when under the batteries of the enemy, she was wrapt in flames by the Spartan band, under Lieut. Decatur ; for which brilliant ex- ploit the President most justly gave the latter a Cap- tain's commission. When the Constitution made her escape from the British squadron off the Capes of the Chesapeake — to Lieut. Morris did the magnanimous Hull give much of the credit acquired in that master- ly retreat. Those who personally know the sterling worth and intrinsic merit of Capt. Morris, cannot but re- joice that his manly virtues and naval talents have now a more ample field of exertion in his country's cause. 16 NAVAL MONUMENT. Capt. Hull, in a letter to the secretary of the navy, passed a handsome eulogium of Capt Morris, in the following passage: " I cannot but make you acquain- ted with the very great assistance I received from that valuable officer, Lieut. Morris, in bringing the ship in- to action, and in working her whilst along side the en- emy ; and I am extremely sorry to state, that he is badly wounded, being shot through the body. We have yet hopes of his recovery, when, I am sure, he will receive the gratitude of his country for this and the many gallant acts he has done in the service." WASP AND FROLIC. OFFICIAL LETTER OF CAPT. JONES. Copy of a letter from Capt. Jones, late of the United States' sloop of war, the Wasp, to the Secretary of the Navy. Sir, JV. York, 24 JYov. 1812. I here avail myself of the first opportunity of in- forming you of the occurrences of our cruise, which terminated in the capture of the Wasp on the 18th of October, by the Poictiers of seventy four guns, while a wreck, from damages received in an engagement with the British sloop of war Frolic, of twenty two, guns, sixteen of them 321b. carronades, and four twelve pounders on the main deck, and two twelve pounders, carronades, on the top-gallant forecastle, making her superior in force to us by four twelve pounders. The Frolic had struck to us, and was taken possession of about two hours before our surrendering to the Poic- tiers. We had left the Delaware on the 13th. The 15th had a heavy gale, in which we lost our jib-boom and two men. Half past eleven, on the night of the 17th, in latitude 37° north, and longitude 65° west, we saw several sail, two of them appearing very large; we stood from them some time, then shortened sail, and steered the remainder of the night the course we had jhbNIMh 1 '' 1 I! mm NAVAL MONUMENT. 17 perceived them on. At day-light on Sunday the 18th, we saw them ahead ; gave chase, and soon discovered them to be a convoy of six sail under the protection of a sloop of war : four of them large ships, mounting from sixteen to eighteen guns. At 32 minutes past eleven A. M. we engaged the sloop of war, having first received her fire, at the distance of fifty or sixty yards, which space we gradually lessened until we laid her on board, after a well supported fire of 43 minutes ; and although so near while loading the last broadside that our rammers were shoved against the sides of the enemy, our men exhibited the same ala- crity which they had done during the whole of the ac- tion. They immediately surrendered upon our gain- ing their forecastle, so that no loss was sustained on either side after boarding. Our main-top mast was shot away between 4 and 5 minutes from the commencement of the firing, and fall- ing together with the main topsail yard across the lar- board fore and fore topsail braces, rendered our head yards unmanageable the remainder of the action. At eight minutes the gaft and mizen top-gallant mast came down, and at 20 minutes from the beginning of the ac- tion, every brace and most of the rigging was shot away. A few minutes after separating from the Frolic, both her masts fell upon deck ; the mainmast going close by the deck and the foremast twelve or fifteen feet above it. The courage and exertions of the officers and crew fully answered my expectations and wishes. Lieut. Biddle's active conduct contributed much to our suc- cess, by the exact attention paid to every department during the engagement, and the animating example he afforded the crew by his intrepidity. Lieuts. Rodg- ers, Booth, and Mr. Rapp, shewed, by the encessant fire from their division, that they were not to be surpassed in resolution or skill. Mr. Knight, and every other officer, acted with a courage and promptitude highly honorable, and I trust have given assurance that they may be relied on whenever their services may be re- quired. 3 18 NAVAL MONUMENT. I could not ascertain the exact loss of the enemy, as many of the dead lay buried under the masts and spars that had fallen upon deck, which two hours' ex- ertion had not sufficiently removed. Mr. Biddle, who had charge of the Frolic, states, that from what he saw, and from information from the officers, the num- ber of killed must have been about 30, and that of the wounded about 40 or 50. Of the killed is her first Lieut, and sailing master ; of thew r ounded, Capt. Whinyates, and the second Lieutenant. We had 6 killed and 5 wounded, as per list : the wounded are recovering. Lieut. Claxton, who was confined by sickness, left his bed a little previous to the engagement ; and though too indisposed to be at his division, remained upon deck, and showed by his com- posed manner of noting its incidents, that we had lost by his illness the services of a brave officer. I am respectfully yours, Hon. Paul Hamilton, JACOB JONES* Sec'y of Navy. It is on the navy of the United States that our na- tional pride, and our hopes of glory repose. We have never been able to look without the highest satisfac- tion on that fearless profession, the nursery of gener- ous courage, and of high-minded patriotism — to whose followers every form of danger is alike familiar and without terror. Nor toil, nor hazard, nor distreasd, appear To sink the seamen with unmanly fear ; Who from the face of danger strive to turn, Indignant from the social hour they spurn ; No future ills, unknown, their souls appal, They know no danger, or they scorn it all. But we have no language to convey our admiration of the young and gallent spirits, who in the first essays of their strength, have triumphed over the veteran sci- ence, ;iikI the disciplined valor, of the habitual con- querors of the ocean. They have retrieved all our • Capt. Jones is a native of Kent county, state of Delaware. NAVAL MONUMENT. 19 disasters ; they have shed new lustre on our arms, and sustained, even in the midst of mortifying reverses, the loftiest tone of national enthusiasm. Their only anxie- ty has been to find the enemies of their country j and, wherever they have met them, their valor has rendered victory certain, whilst their skill has made it easy. t)evoted, as is this monument, to all that can add honor or distinction to the national character, it has no fairer pages than those which record instances of bravery like the following, the account of which we have rendered scrupulously minute and authentic. The United States' sloop of war the Wasp, com- manded by Capt. Jacob Jones, was crusing in long. 65° W. and lat. 37 ° N. the track of vessels passing from Bermuda to Halifax, when, on Saturday, the 17th of October, about 11 o'clock, in a clear moon-light even- ing, she found herself near five strange sail, steering eastward. As some of them seemed to be ships of war, it was thought better to get farther from them. The Wasp therefore haled her wind, and having reached a few miles to windward, so as to escape or fight as the occasion might require, followed the strange sail through the night. At daybreak, on Sunday morning, Capt. Jones found that they were six large merchant ships, under convoy of a sloop of war which proved to be the Frolic, Capt. Whinyates, from Honduras to England, with a convoy, strongly armed and manned, having aH forty or fifty men ; and two of them mount- ing sixteen guns each. He determined, however, to attack them, and as there was a heavy swell of the sea, and the weather boisterous, got down his top-gallant yards, close reefed the topsails, and prepared for ac- tion. About eleven o'clock the Frolic showed Span- ish colors; and the Wasp immediately displayed the American ensign and pendant. At thirty-two minutes past eleven, the Wasp came down to windward, on her larboard side, within about sixty yards, and hailed. The enemy hauled down the Spanish colors, hoisted the British ensign, and opened a fire of cannon and musketry. This the Wasp instantly returned ; and,, 20 NAVAL MONUMENT. coining nearer to the enemy, the action became close, and without intermission. In four or five minutes the main topmast of the Wasp was shot away, and, falling down with the main topsail yard across the larboard, fore and fore topsail braces, rendered her head yards unmanageable during the rest of the action. In two or three minutes more her gaft and mizen top-gallant sail were shot away. Still she continued a close and constant fire. The sea was so rough that the muzzles of the Wasp's guns were frequently in the water. The Americans, therefore, fired as the ship's side was going down, so that their shot went either on the ene- my's deck or below it, while the English fired as the vessel rose, and thus her balls chiefly touched the rig- ging, or were thrown away. The Wasp now shot ahead of the Frolic, raked her, and then resumed her position on her larboard bow. Her fire was now ob- viously attended with such success, and that of the Frolic so slackened, that Capt. Jones did not wish to board her, lest the roughness of the sea might endan- ger both vessels ; but, in the course of a few minutes more, every brace of the Wasp was shot away, and her rigging so much torn to piece, that he was afraid that his masts, being unsupported, would go by the board, and the Frolic be able to escape. He thought, therefore, the best chance of securing her was to board, and decide the contest at once. With this view, he wore ship, and, running down upon the ene- my, the vessels struck each other, the Wasp's side rubbing along the Frolic's bow, so that her jib-boom came in between the main and mizen rigging of the Wasp, directly over the heads of Capt. Jones and the first Lieutenant, Mr. Biddle, who were at that moment standing together near the capstan. The Frolic lay so fair for raking, that they decided not to board until they had given a closing broadside. Whilst they were loading for this, so near were the two vessels, that the rammers of the Wasp were pushed against the Frolic's Bides, and two of her guns went through the bow ports of the Frolic, and swept the whole length of her deck. NAVAL MONUMENT. 21 At this moment, Jack Lang,* a seaman of the Wasp, a gallant fellow, who had been once impressed by a British man of war, jumped on his gun with his cut- lass, and was springing on board the Frolic: Capt. Jones, wishing to fire again before boarding called him down ; but his impetuosity could not be restrained, and he was already on the bowsprit of the Frolic, when, seeing the ardour and enthusiasm of the Wasp's crew, Lieut. Biddle mounted on the hammoc cloth to board. At this signal the crew followed ; but Lieut. Biddle's feet got entangled in the rigging of the enemy's bow- sprit, and midshipman Baker, in his ardor to get on board, laying hold of his coat, he fell back on the Wasp's deck. He sprang up, and as the next swell of the sea brought the Frolic nearer, he got on her bowsprit, where Lang and another seaman were already. He passed them on the forecastle, and was surprised at seeing not a single man alive on the Frolic's deck, ex- cept the seaman at the wheel and three officers. The deck was slippery with blood, and strewed with the bodies of the dead. As he went forward, the Captain of the Frolic, with two other officers, who were stand- ing on the quarter deck, threw down their swords, and made an inclination of their bodies, denoting that they had surrendered. At this moment the colors were still flying, as, probably, none of the seamen of the Frolic would dare to go into the rigging for fear of the mus- ketry of the Wasp. Lieut. Biddle, therefore, jumped into the rigging himself, and hauled down the British ensign, and possession was taken of the Frolic in 43 minutes after the first fire. She was in a shocking con- dition; the birth deck, particularly, was crowded with dead, and wounded, and dying ; there being but a small proportion of the Frolic's crew who had escaped. Capt. Jones instantly sent on board his surgeon's mate, and all the blankets of the Frolic were brought from the slop room for the comfort of the wounded. To increase * John Lang was a native of New Brunswick, in New Jersey. We mention with great pleasure, the name of this brave American seaman, as a proof that con- spicuous valor is confined to no rank in the naval service. 22 NAVAL MONUMENT. this confusion, both the Frolic's masts soon fell, cov- ering the dead and every thing on deck, and she lay a complete wreck. It now appears that the Frolic mounted sixteen 321b. carronades, four 12 pounders on the main deck, and two 121b. carronades. She was, therefore, superior to the Wasp, by exactly four twelve pounders. The num- ber of men on board, as stated by the officers of the Frolic, was one hundred and ten — the number of sea- men on board the Wasp, was one hundred and two ; but it could not be ascertained, whether in this one hun- dred and ten, were included marines and officers ; for the Wasp had, besides her one hundred and two men, officers and marines, making the whole crew about one hundred and thirty five. — What however, is decisive, as to their comparative force is, that the officers of the Frolic acknowledged that they had as many men as they knew what to do with, and, in fact, the Wasp could have spared fifteen men. There was, therefore, on the most favorable view, at least an equality of men, and an inequality of four guns. The disparity of loss was much greater. The exact number of kill- ed and wounded on board the Frolic could not be pre- cisely determined ; but from the observations of our officers, and the declarations of those of the Frol- ic, the number could not be less than about thirty killed, including two officers ; and of the wounded, between forty and fifty ; the Captain and second Lieut, being of the number. The Wasp had five men killed, and five slightly wounded. All hands were now employed in clearing the deck, burying the dead, and taking care of the wounded, when Captain Jones sent orders to Lieut. Biddle to proceed to Chariest own, or any southern port of the United States ; and, as there was a suspicious sail to the windward, the Wasp would continue her cruise. The ships then parted. The suspicious sail was now coming down very fast. At first it was supposed that she was one of the convoy, who had all fled during the engagement, and who now came for the purpose of at- NAVAL MONUMENT. 23 tacking the prize. The guns of the Frolic were, there- fore, loaded, and the ship cleared for action ; hut the enemy, as she advanced, proved to be a seventy-four, the Poictiers, Capt. Beresford. She fired a shot over the Frolic ; passed her ; overtook the Wasp, the disa- bled state of whose rigging prevented her from escaping; and then returned to the Frolic, who could of course, make no resistance. The Wasp and Frolic were car- ried into Bermuda. It is not the least praise due to Capt. Jones, that his account of this gallant action, is perfectly modest and unostentatious. On his own share in the capture, it is unnecessary to add any thing. "The courage and exertion of the officers and crew," he observes, "fully answered my expectations and wish- es. Lieut. Biddle's active conduct contributed much to our success, by the exact attention paid to every department, during the engagement, and the animating example he afforded the crew by his intrepidity Lieut. Rodgers and Booth, and Mr. Rapp, showed by the incessant fire from their divisions, that they were not to be surpassed in resolution or skill. Mr. Knight and every other officer, acted with a courage and promti- tude highly honorable. Lieut. Claxton, who was confined by sickness, left his bed a little previous to the engagement ; and, though too weak to be at his division, remained upon deck, and showed, by his com- posed manner of noting its incidents, that we had lost, by his illness, the services of a brave officer." UNITED STATES AND MACEDONIAN. Message of the President of the United States, com- municating to congress the official letters of Cap- tains Decatur and Jones. To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United Stales. I transmit to Congress a copy of a letter to the Secretary of the navy, from Capt. Decatur, of the 24< NAVAL MONUMENT. frigate United States, reporting his combat and cap- ture of the British frigate Macedonian. Too much praise cannot be bestowed on that officer and his companions on board, for the consummate skill and conspicuous valour by which this trophy has been added to the naval arms of the United States. I transmit also a letter * from Capt Jones, who com- manded the sloop of war Wasp, reporting his capture of the British sloop of war, the Frolic, after a close action, in which other brilliant titles will be seen to the public admiration and praise. A nation feeling what it owes to itself, and its citi- zens, could never abandon to arbitrary violence on the ocean, a class of men, which gives such examples of capacity and courage, in defending their rights on that element ; examples, which ought to impress on the enemy, however brave and powerful, a preference of justice and peace to hostility against a country whose prosperous career may be accelerated, but cannot be prevented by the assaults made on it. JAMES MADISON. Washington, Dec. 11, 1812. com. decatur's official letter to the secretary of the navy. U. S. ship, United States, at sea. Sir, Oct. 30, 1812. I have the honor to inform you, that on the 25th inst. being in latitude 29° N. longitude 29° 30' W. we fell in with, and after an action of an hour and a half, captured his Britannic Majesty's ship Macedonian, commanded by captain John Card en, and mounting 49 carriage guns, (the odd gun shifting.) She is a frig- ate of the largest class two years old, four months out of dock, and reputed one of the best sailers in the British service. The enemy, being to windward, had the advantage of engaging us at his own distance, " Which see ante. p. 1<1. NAVAL MONUMENT. 25 which was so great, that for the first half hour, we did not use our caronades, and at no moment was he within the complete effect of our musketry and grape ; to this circumstance, and a heavy swell, which was on at the time, I ascribe the unusual length of the action. The enthusiasm of every officer, seaman and marine on board this ship, on discovering the enemy — their steady conduct in battle, and precision of their fire, could not be surpassed. Where all met my fullest expectations, it would be unjust in me to discriminate. Permit me, however, to recommend to your particular notice, my first Lieut. William H. Allen. He has served with me upwards of five years, and to his un- remitted exertions in disciplining the crew, is to be imputed the obvious superiority of our gunnery exhib- ited in the result of this contest. Subjoined is a list of the killed and wounded on both sides. Our loss compared with that of the enemy, will appear small. Amongst our wounded you will observe the name of Lieut. Funk, who died a few hours after the action ; he was an officer of great gall- antry and promise, and the service has sustained a se- vere loss in his death. The Macedonian lost her mizen mast, fore and main topmasts and main yard, and was much cut up in her hull. — Th© damage sustained by this ship was not such as to render her return into port necessary ; and had I not deemed it important that we should see our prize in, should have continued our cruise. With the highest consideration and respect, I am, sir, your obedient humble servant, Hon. Paul Hamilton. STEPHEN DECATUR. List of killed and wounded on board the United States. Killed — One seaman and five marines. Wounded — John Musser Funk, Philadelphia, Lieut, and six others. On board the Macedonian, there were thirty-six kil- led, and sixty-eight wounded : among the former were 4 26 NAVAL MONUMENT. the boatswain, one master's mate and the school-mas- ter ; of the latter, were the first and third Lieuts. one master's mate and two midshipmen. At a meeting of the young men of Lancaster, Pa. the following resolution, honorary to Lieut. Funk, was passed : Whereas, with the deepest regret we have been ap- prised of the untimely death of our friend and fellow citizen, Lt. John Musser Funk, who fell gloriously fighting in the cause of his country, in the engagement between the frigate United States and the Macedoni- an, which ended in the brilliant victory of the United States over the British frigate. Resolved, That as a testimony of our grief at the loss of the companion of our youth, our respect for his virtues, and the high estimation in which we hold his memory, we will wear crape on the left arm for the space of thirty days. John Archibald died of his wounds soon after. He left three children to the mercy of the world and a worthless mother, who had abandoned them. When his father went on board the frigate to claim the wa- ges and property of his son, an inquiry into the cir- cumstances of the family took place, and a plan was agreed upon by the seamen for the relief of the or- phans, and two dollars apiece was immediately sub- scribed, amounting to about eight hundred, for the maintenance and education of the bereaved infants to be placed in the hands of suitable trustees. Address of Thanks. The father of the deceased John Archibald, who fell in the gallant action on board the United States, un- der the command of the heroic Com. Stephen Decatur, avails himself of thus publicly returning his most sin- cere thanks to the commander for his humanity and benevolence to him, and also to his gallant officers and seamen, many of whom, are personally acquainted with the deceased's father, for having contributed largely and honourably towards the support of the said de- NAVAL MONUMENT. 27 ceased's three orphan children ; which clearly demon- strate that the American seamen are possessed both of courage and humanity. Capt. Carden spoke in the highest terms of appro- bation of the conduct of Com. Decatur and his officers. All the private property of the officers and men on board the Macedonian was given up. That claimed by Capt. Carden, (including a band of musick and several casks of wine) valued at about 800 dollars, the Comodore — whose soul is as liberal as brave — paid him for. Generosity could not have been more properly applied. Capt. Carden has been distinguished for his civilities to such Americans as he met at sea before the war. The frigate United States is 176 feet deck, and 42 feet beam — her gun deck is 6 feet 6 inches high — she has 15 port holes on a side — and carries 24 pounders on her main deck. The Macedonian, is 166 feet deck — 42 feet 8 inch- es beam — her gun deck is 6 feet 10 inches high — she has 15 port holes on a side — and carries 18 pounders on her main deck. The Macedonian is said to be the best model for a frigate, and was accounted the most completely fitted vessel in the service. An officer of the United States frigate, speaking of Decatur's victory, says, <( Iam well aware it will be said, the Macedonian is a little ship, with five guns less than the United States, and a hundred men less, and carries lighter metal &x>. Well, all this is true — she is inferior in all these, but she is just such a ship as the English have achieved all their single ship victories in ; it was in such a ship that Sir Robert Barlow took the Jlfri- caine, that Sir Michael Seymour took the Brune, and afterwards the Niemen, that Capt. Milne took the Vengeance, Capt. Cooke the La forte, Capt. La- vie, the Guerriere, Capt. Rowley, the Venus, and God knows how many others : — She is in tonnage, men and guns, such a ship as the English prefer to all others, and have, till the Gnerriere's loss, always 28 NAVAL MONUMENT. thought a match for any single decked ship afloat. You will observe the ship was just out of dock, her masts were better than the Guerriere's. She had ta- ken no prizes ; her complement was full. She was not built of fir, thirty years ago, as was said of that ship, but of the best English oak, two years since. CONSTITUTION AND JAVA. House of Representatives of the United States, Monday, February 22, 1813. To the Senate and House of Representatives. 1 lay before congress a letter with accompanying documents from Capt. Bainbridge, now command- ing the United States frigate "the Constitution," reporting his capture and destructon of the British frigate "Java." The circumstances and the issue of this combat afford another example of the profes- sional skill and heroic spirit which prevail in our na- val service. The signal display of both by Capt. Bainbridge, his officers and crew command the highest praise. This being the second instance in which the condition of the captured ship, by rendering it imposs- ible to get her into port, has barred a contemplated reward for successful valor, I recommend to the con- sideration of congress equity and propriety of a gener- al provision, allowing in such cases, both past and fu- ture, a fair proportion of the value which would accrue to the captors on the safe arrival and sale of the prize. JAMES MADISON. U. S. frigate Constitution, St. Salvador, Sir, January 3, 1813. I have the honor to inform you that on the 29th ult. at 2 P. M., in south lat. 13° 6', and west long. 38°, about 10 leagues distant from the coast of Brazil, I fell in with and captured his B. M. frigate Java, of 49 guns and upwards of 400 men, commanded by Capt. Lam- bert, a very distinguished officer. The action lasted 1 NAVAL MONUMENT. 29 hour 55 minutes, in which time the enemy was com- pletely dismasted, not having a spar of any kind stand- ing. The loss on board the Constitution, was 9 kill- ed and 25 wounded, as per enclosed list. The enemy had 60 killed and 101 wounded, certainly, (among the latter Capt. Lambert, mortally) but by the enclosed letter, written on board this ship, by one of the officers of the Java, and accidentally found, it is evident that the enemy's wounded must have been much greater than as above stated, and who must have died of their wounds previously to their being removed. The let- ter states 60 killed and 170 wounded. For further details of the action, I beg leave to refer you to the enclosed extracts from my Journal. The Java had, in addition to her own crew, upwards of one hundred supernumerary officers and seamen to join the British ships of war in the East Indies : also Lieut. General Hislop, appointed to the command of Bombay : Maj. Walker and Capt. Wood of his staff, and Capt. Marshall, master and commander in the British navy, going to the East Indies to take command of a sloop of war there. Should I attempt to do justice by representation to the brave and good conduct of all my officers and crew during the action, I should fail in the attempt ; there- fore suffice it to say, that the whole of their conduct was such as to merit my highest encomiums. I beg leave to recommend the officers particularly to the no- tice of the government, as also the unfortunate seamen who were wounded, and the families of those brave men who fell in the action. The great distance from our own coast and the per- fect wreck we made the enemy's frigate, forbade every idea of attempting to take her to the United States ; I had therefore no alternative but burning her, which I did on the 31st ult, after receiving all the prisoners and their baggage, which was very hard work, only having one boat left out of eight, and not one left on board the Java. On blowing up the frigate Java, I proceeded to 30 NAVAL MONUMENT. this place, where I have landed all the prisoners on their parole to return to England, and there remain until regularly exchanged, and not to serve in their professional capacities in any place, or in any manner whatsoever against the United States of America, un- til their exchange shall be affected. I have the honor to be, &c. (Signed) W. BAINBRIDGE. To the Secretary of the Navy. List of killed and wounded on board the Constitution. Killed — Jonas Ongrain, seamen ; Joseph Adams, do.; Patrick Conner, do.; Barney Hart, do. ; John Cheever, do.; Mark Snow, do.; John D. Allen, do.; Wm. Cooper, do.; Thomas Hanson, private marine. Wounded — Wm. Bainbridge, commander, severe- ly ; John C. Aylwin, lieut. do.; Chas. F. Waldo, masters's mate, do.; and twenty one others. (Signed) AMOS R. EVANS, Surgeon, R. C. LUDLOW, Purser, W. BAINBRIDGE. John Cheever was mortally wounded in the late ac- tion with the Java. Whilst lying on the deck, appa- rently dying, the word was passed the enemy had struck. He raised himself up with one hand, gave three cheers, fell back, and expired ! Heroic specimen of the genuine patriotism of American tars ! He had a brother, Joseph P. Cheever, killed in the same ac- tion. They have left an aged and helpless mother at Marblehead, who depended entirely on the fruits of their industry for a subsistence. At a public dinner, at the Exchange Coffee house, in Boston, given in honor of Capt. Bainbridge, March 2, 1813, the Hon. Christopher Gore, president of the day, Jinnounced in an affecting and eloquent address, that the money arising from the subscription, which was usually appropriated to decorations, had been on this occasion, reserved for the benefit of the widow Cheev- er, who bad lost in the battle with the Java, her only two sons, her stay and support ; and he offered this to the Commodore as an apology for an omission of dec- NAVAL MONUMENT. 31 orations of the hall, as had been usual, and doubted not it would be acceptable. The Commodore expres- sed his grateful sense of the compliment implied in the apology ; and all present felt that the compliment was justly due. Lieut. Aylwin died, at sea, Jan. 28, 1813, on board the U. S. frigate Constitution, of wounds received in the action with the Java. He entered the service about the time war was declared, as a sailing master, and was promoted to a lieutenant for his gallant con- duct in the action with the Guerriere. He was an officer of great merit, much esteemed by all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance. In him his country has suffered great loss. He had seen much of the world, and improved his opportunities of observation ; possessed a strong mind, and a benevolent disposition. In the action with the Guerriere, he stood on an el- evated situation by the side of his comrades, Morris and Bush, at the time the two vessels came in contact, and was wounded in the left shoulder by a musket ball. In the late action he commanded the forecastle division ; and his deliberate bravery and marked cool- ness throughout the contest, gained him the admiration of his commander, and all who had an opportunity of witnessing it. When boarders were called to re- pel boarders, he mounted the quarter deck hammock- cloths ; and, in the act of firing his pistol at the ene- my, he received a ball through the same shoulder. Notwithstanding the serious nature of his wound, he continued at his post until the enemy struck. A few days after the action, although labouring under consid- erable debility, and the most excruciating pain, he left his bed, and repaired to quarters, when an engagement was expected with a ship, which afterwards proved to be the Hornet. He bore his pain with great and unu- sual fortitude, and expired without a groan. The following is a list of his Britannic Majesty's military and naval officers and crew, paroled at St. Salvador (Brazil) by Com. William Bainbridge, 3d Jan. 1813. 32 NAVAL MONUMENT. 1 Lieutenant general, 1 major, 1 captain, military officers ; 1 post captain, 1 master and commandant, 5 lieutenants, 3 lieutenants of marines, 1 surgeon, 2 as- sisting surgeons, 1 purser, 15 midshipmen, 1 gunner, 1 boatswain, 1 master, 1 carpenter, 2 captain's clerks, 38; and 323 petty officers, seamen, marines and boys, exclusive of 9 Portuguese seamen liberated and given up to the governor of St. Salvador, and 3 passengers, private characters, whom the Commodore did not con- sider prisoners of war, and permitted them to land without any restraint. EXTRACT FROM COM. BAINBRIDGE's JOURNAL. "Tuesday December 29, 1812— At 9 A. M. discov- ered two strange sails on the weather bow. At 10 discovered the strange sails to be ships : one of them stood in for the land, and the other stood off shore, in a direction towards us. At 45 minutes past 10 A. M. we tacked ship to the northward and westward, and stood for the sail standing towards us ; at 11 A. M. tacked to the southward and eastward, hauled up the mainsail and took in the royals. At 30 minutes past 11, made the private signal for the day, which was not answered, and then set the mainsail and royals to draw the strange sail off from the neutral coast, and separate her from the sail in company. "Wednesday, 30 Dec. (nautical time) lat. 13° 6' S. Ion. 31° W. ten leagues from the coast of Brazil, commenced with clear weather and moderate breezes from E. N. E. hoisted our ensign and pendant. At 15 minutes past meridian, the ship hoisted her colours, an English ensign, having a signal flying at main. " At 20 minutes past 1 P. M. being sufficiently from land, and finding the ship to be an English frigate, took in the main sail and royals, tacked ship, and stood for the enemy. At 50 minutes past 1 P. M. the enemy bore down with an intention of raking us which we avoided by wearing. At 2 P. M. the enemy being within half a mile of us, and to windward, and having hauled down his colours, except the union jack at the NAVAL MONUMENT. 33 mizen mast head, induced me to give orders to the offi- cer of the third division to fire a gun ahead of the en- emy, to make him show his colours, which heing done, brought on a fire from us of the whole broadside, on which the enemy hoisted his colors, and immediately returned our fire. A general action, with round and grape, then commenced ; the enemy keeping at a much i greater distance than I wished : but could not bring him to a closer action, without exposing ourselves to several rakes. Considerable manoeuvres were made by both vessels to rake and avoid being raked. The following minutes were taken during the action : "At 10 minutes past 2 P. M. commenced the action ■ within good grape and canister distance, the enemy to windward, (but much farther than I wished.) At 30 minutes past 2, our wheel was shot entirely away. At 40 minutes past 2, determined to close with the en- emy, notwithstanding his raking. Set the fore and mainsail, and luffed up close to him. At 50 minutes past 2, the enemy's jib-boom got foul of our mizen rigging. At 3, the head of the enemy's bowsprit and jib-boom shot away by us. At 5 minutes past 3, shot away the enemy's foremast by the board. At 15 min- utes past 3, shot away his main topmast just above the cap. At 40 minutes past 3, shot away the gaft and spanker boom. At 55 minutes past 3, shot away his mizen mast nearly by the board. At 5 minutes past 4, having silenced the fire of the enemy completely, and his colours in the main rigging being down, we sup- posed he had struck ; we then hauled down courses and shot ahead to repair our rigging, which was ex- tremely cut ; leaving the enemy a complete wreck; soon after discovered that the enemy's flag was still flying. Hove to, to repair some of our damage. At 20 min- utes past 4, the enemy's mainmast went nearly by the board. At 50 minutes past four, wore ship and stood for the enemy. At 25 minutes past 5, got very close to the enemy in a very effectual raking position, ath- wart his bows, and was at the very instant of raking him when he most prudently struck his flag — for had 5 34 NAVAL MONUMENT. he suffered the broadside to have raked him, his addi- tional loss must have been extremely great, as he laid an unmanageable wreck upon the water." The following correspondence exhibits the character of Capt. Bainbridge in a light so honorable, and so well calculated to exalt the national character, that we are happy in the opportunity of giving it publicity. GENERAL HISLOP TO COM. BAINBRIDGE. Dear Sir, St. Salvador, January 3, 1813. I am justly penetrated with the fullest sense of your very handsome and kind treatment, ever since the fate of war placed me in your power, and I beg once more to renew to you my sincere acknowledgments for the same. Your acquiescence with my request in granting me my parole, with the officers of my staff', added to the obligations I had previously experienced, claims from me this additional tribute of my thanks. May I now finally flatter myself, that in the further extension of your generous and humane feelings, in the alleviations of the misfortunes of war, that you will have the good- ness to fulfil the only wish and request I am now most anxious to see completed, by enlarging on their parole (on the same conditions you have acceded to with res- pect to myself) all the officers of the Java still on board your ship, a favour I shall never cease duly to appreciate by your acquiescence thereto. I have the honour to subscribe myself, dear sir, your most obliged and very humble servant, (Signed) T. HISLOP. Com. Bainbridge. ANSWER OF COM. BAINBRIDGE. United States frigate Constitution. Dear Sir, St. Salvador, Jan. 3, 1813. I have received your letter of this date conveying, Sentiments of your feelings for my treatment towards you since the fate of war placed you in my power. The kind expressions which you have been pleased to NAVAL MONUMENT. 35 use, are justly appreciated by me, and far overbalance those common civilities shewn by me, and which are always due to prisoners. I regret that the lumbered state of my ship prevented me from making you as comfortable on board, as I sincerely wished to have done. I have complied with your last request, respec- ting paroling all the officers of the Java. In doing so, your desire, in addition to my disposition to ameliorate as much as possible the situation of those officers, considerably influenced me. Permit me to tender you (notwithstanding our res- pective countries are at war) assurances of sincere es- teem and high respect, and to assure you that I shall feel at all times highly gratified in hearing of or from you. With fervent wishes for the recovery of the gallant Capt. Lambert, I have the honor to subscribe myself, very respectfullv, &,c. (Signed) W. BAINBRIDGE. Lieut. Gen. Hislop, of the British army. GENERAL HISLOP TO COM. BAINBRIDGE. Dear Sir, St. Salvador, Jan. 4. 1813. Allow me once more to express my sincerest ac- knowledgments for this last instance of your kind atten- tion to my wishes, by having complied with my request in behalf of the officers of the Java. Lieut. Chads delivered to me your very polite and obliging letter, and be assured that I shall feel no less gratification at all times to hear of and from you, than that which you are so good as to express you will derive in re- ceiving information respecting myself. May I request now that you will be so good as to cause to be looked for a small chest, containing articles of plate, more valuable to me on account of having been presented to me by the colony of Demarara, where I commanded for several years. I have the honor to be &c. (Signed) T. HISLOP, Com. Bainbridge. 36 NAVAL MONUMENT. Lieut. Chads presents his compliments to Com. Bainbridge, and is extremely sorry to inform him, Capt. Lambert died a short time since. St. Salvador, Monday 11 o'clock. COM. BAINBRIDGE TO LIEUT. CHADS January 4, 1813. Com. Bainbridge has learnt with real sorrow the death of Capt. Lambert. Though a political enemy, he could not but greatly respect him for the brave de- fence he made with his ship : and Com. Bainbridge takes this occasion to observe, in justice to Lieut. Chads, who fought the Java after Capt. Lambert was wounded, that he did every thing for the defence of that ship, which a brave and skilful officer could do, and that further resistance woulfl have been a wanton effusion of human blood. Size of the Java. The Java is rated in Steel's list a 38 gun frigate. Her real force was 28 eighteen pounders on the main deck — 14 thirty-two pounders, on the quarter deck — 4 thirty-two pounders, and 2 large twelve pounders on the forecastle — and one shifting gun, a twenty-four pounder. The British rate their ship from the number of guns on a particular deck ; and a frigate carrying 28 eigh- teen pounders on her main deck, is regularly called by them a 38, which rate has frequently fifty-two moun- ted. There are on board the Constitution some of the Java's shot, from which it has been ascertained, that there is scarcely three pounds difference between her eighteens and the American twenty-fours, so called ; and that the thirty-two pound shot of the Java is heav- ier than the thirty-two pound shot of the Constitution. The officers of the Java, while on board the Consti- tution, mentioned, that this frigate was formerly the French ship La Rcnome, taken off Madagascar, May 20, 1811, in company with La JSeriede„ after a Z, f < C U o S w H O n < Q O ►J o I NAVAL MONUMENT. 37 severe action, by the Phoebe, Astrea and Galatea. At the time of capture, La Renome mounted 44 guns — The British added five guns. HORNET AND BONNE CITOYENNE. Capt. Lawrence, while off the harbour of St. Salvador, in the Hornet, sent a challenge to Capt. Greene, of the Bonne Citoyenne, to try the superiori- ty of their vessels in action ; which was conveyed through the American Consul, as follows : "When I last saw you, I stated to you my wish to meet the Bonne Citoyenne, and authorized you to make my wish known to Capt. Greene. I now re- quest you to state to him, that I will meet him when- ever he may be pleased to come out, and pledge my honor that neither the Constitution, nor any other American vessel shall interfere. Com. Bainbridge, of the Constitution frigate, con- firms to me (says the consul) the request of Capt. Law- rence, in these words : — 5 NAVAL MONUMENT. 39 the Montague 74 hove in sight, and chased me into the harbour ; but night coming on, I wore and stood out to the southward. Knowing that she had left Rio Ja- neiro for the express purpose of relieving the Bonne Citoyenne and the packet, [ which I had also blockaded for 14 days, and obliged her mail to go to Rio, in a Portuguese smack] I judged it most prudent to shift my cruising ground, and hauled by the wind to the eastward, with the view of cruising off Pernambuco, and on the 4th of February captured the English brig Resolution, of 10 guns, from Rio Janeiro, bound to Morahnam, with coffee, jerked beef, flour, fustic, and butter, and about 23,000 dollars in specie. As she sailed dull and I could not spare hands to man her, I took out the money and set her on fire. I ran down the coast of Morahnam, and cruised there a short time : from thence ran off Surinam. After cruising off that coast from the 15th to the 22d of Feb. without meet- ing a vessel, I stood for Demerara, with an intention, should I be fortunate on that station, to run through the West Indies, on my way to the United States. But, on the 24th in the morning, I discovered a brig to the leeward, to which I gave chase ; ran into quar- ter less four, and not having a pilot, was obliged to haul off, the fort at the entrance of Demerara river at this time bearing S. W. distant about two and a half leagues. Previous to giving up the chase, I discover- ed a vessel at anchor without the bar, with English colours flying, apparently a brig of war, In beating round Corobano Bank, in order to get at her, at half past 3 P. M, discovered another sail on our weather quarter, edging down for us. At 20 minutes past 4, she hoisted English colours, at which time we discov- ered her to be a large man-of-war brig — beat to quar- ters, cleared ship for action, and kept close by the wind, in order, if possible, to get the weather gage. At 10 minutes past 5, finding I could weather the enemy, I hois- ted American colours and tacked. At 25 minutes past 5, in passing each other, exchanged broadsides within half pistol shot. Observing the enemy in the act of .40 NAVAL MONUMENT. wearing, I bore up, received his starboard broadside, ran him close on board the starboard quarter, and kept up such a heavy and direct fire, that in less than 15 minutes he surrendered, being literally cut to pieces, and hoisted his ensign, union down, from his fore-rig- ging, as a signal of distress. Shortly after, his main- mast went by the board. Despatched Lieut. Shubrick on board, who soon returned with her first Lieut, who reported her to be his Britannic Majesty's late brig Peacock, commanded by Capt. William Peake, who fell in the latter part of the action ; that a number of her crew were killed and wounded, and that she was sinking fast, having then six feet of water in her hold. Despatched the boats immediately for the wounded, and brought both vessels to anchor. Such shot holes as could be got at were then plugged up : her guns thrown overboard, and every possible exertion used (o keep her afloat until the prisoners could be removed, by pumping and bailing, but without effect, as she unfortunately sunk in 5h fathoms water, carrying down 13 of her crew, and 3 of my brave fellows, viz : John Hart, Joseph Williams and Hannibal Boyd ; Lieut. Conner, Midshipman Cooper, and the remainder of my men, employed in removing the prisoners, with difficulty saved themselves, by jumping into a boat that was lying on her booms as she went down. Four men, of the 13 mentioned, were so fortunate as to gain the fore top, and were afterwards taken off by the boats. Previous to her going down, 4 of her men took the stern boat, that had been much damaged during the action, who, I sincerely hope reached the shore in safety ; but from the heavy sea running at the time, the shattered state of the boat, and the difficulty of landing on the coast, I am fearful they were lost. I have not been able to ascertain from her officers the exact number killed. Capt. Peake and 4 men were found dead on board. The master, and one midshipman, carpenter and captain's clerk, and 29 sea- men were wounded ; most of them severely, 3 of them died of their wounds after being removed, and 9 drown- NAVAL MONUMENT. 41 ed. Our loss was trifling in comparison. John Place, killed ; Samuel Coulson, and John Delyrumple severe- ly wounded ; George Coffin and Lewis Todd severely burnt by the explosion of a cartridge. Todd survived only a few days. Our rigging and sails are much cut. One shot through the foremast ; and the bowsprit slight- ly injured. Our hull received little or no damage. At the time I brought the Peacock to action, the L'Es- piegle (the brig mentioned as being at anchor) mount- ing sixteen 32 pound carronades and two long nines, lay about six miles in shore of me, and could plainly see the whole of the action. Apprehensive that she would beat out to the assistance of her consort, such exertions were made by my officers and crew repairing damages, &,c. that by nine o'clock my boats were stowed away, new set of sails bent, and the ship com- pletely ready for action. At 2 A. M. got under way and stood by the wind to the northward and westward, under easy sail. On mustering next morning, found we had two hundred and seventy seven souls on board, including the crew of the American brig Hunter, of Portland, taken a few days since by the Peacock. As we had been on two thirds allowance of provisions, for some time, and had but 3,400 gallons of water on board, I reduced the allowance to three pints a man, and deter- mined to make the best of my way to the United States. The Peacock was deservedly styled one of the finest vessels of her class in the British navy. I should judge her to be about the tonnage of the Hornet. Her beam was greater by five inches ; but her extreme length not so great bv four feet. She mounted sixteen 24 pound carronades, two long nines, one 12 pound carronade on her top-gallant forecastle, as a shifting gun, and one 4 or 6 pounder, and two swivels moun- ted aft. I find, by her quarter bill, that her crew con- sisted of 134 men, 4 of whom were absent in a prize. The cool and determined conduct of my officers and crew during the action, and their almost unexam- 6 42 NAVAL MONUMENT. pled exertions afterwards, entitle them to my warmest acknowledgments, and I beg leave most earnestly to recommend them to the notice of government. By the indisposition of Lieut. Stewart, I was de- prived of the services of an excellent officer. Had he been able to stand the deck, I am sure his exertions would not have been surpassed by any one on board. I should be doing injustice to the merits of Lieut. Shubrick, and acting Lieuts. Conner and Newton, were I not to recommend them particularly to your notice. Lieut. Shubrick was in the actions of the Guerriere and Java. Capt. Hull and Com. Bain- bridge can bear testimony of his coolness and good conduct on both occasions. I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, Hon. Wm. Jones, JAMES LAWRENCE. Secretary of the Navy. P. S. At the commencement of the action, my sailing-master and seven men were absent in a prize ; and Lieut. Stewart and six men were on the sick list. As there is every prospect of the wind being to the eastward in the morning, I shall make the best of my way to New- York. Liberality of American tars. It is a fact worthy of note, and in the highest de- gree honorable to our brave tars, that, the day pre- ceeding the destruction of his Britannic Majesty's brig Peacock the crew of the Hornet made a subscrip- tion, and supplied the prisoners, who had lost almost every thing, with two shirts, a blue jacket and trow- sers, each. Tribute of gratitude. Sir, JVeiv-York, March 27, 1813. We, the surviving officers of his Britannic Maj- esty's brig Peacock, beg leave to return you our grateful acknowledgments for the kind attention and hospitality we experienced during the time we remain- ed on board the United States sloop Hornet. So NAVAL MONUMENT. 43 1 much was done to alleviate the distressing and un- comfortable situation, in which we were placed when received on board the sloop you command, that we cannot better express our feelings, than by saying, "we ceased to consider ourselves prisoners," and eve- ry thing that friendship could dictate, was adopted by you, and the officers of the Hornet, to remedy the in- conveniences we should otherwise have experienced from the unavoidable loss of the whole of our proper- ty and clothes by the sudden sinking of the Peacock. Permit us then, sir, impressed, as we are, with a grateful sense of your kindness, for ourselves and the other officers and ship's company, to return you, and the officers of the Hornet, our sincere thanks, which we shali feel obliged, if you will communicate to them in our name, and believe us to remain with a high sense of the kind offices you have rendered us, your humble servants, F. A. WRIGHT, 1st Lieutenant, C. LAMUERT, 2d Lieutenant. EDWARD LOTT, Master. I. WHITAKER, Surgeon. F. D. UNW1N, Purser. James Lawrence, Esq. Commander U. S. Sloop Hornet. The demolition of the Peacock by the Hornet ap- pears to have been a master-piece of American gun- nery. When the Leopard, a 50 gun ship, attacked the Chesapeake of 36 guns, she poured her broadsides for nearly 20 minutes, without cessation, and close aboard, into an unresisting, cluttered and inferiour ship. Yet only three were killed, and a proportionate number wounded. The Wasp, in 43 minutes cut down the Frolic from 119 men to 20, capable of do- ing duty ; and the Hornet, in only 15 minutes, killed 9, wounded 35, and totally shivered her superior an- tagonist to atoms ! 44 NAVAL MONUMENT. CHESAPEAKE AND SHANNON. The following account of the capture of the Chesa- peake, appeared in a Boston newspaper on Fri- day, 4c. We have understood that the remains are to be re- embarked in the cartel Henry, and carried to New- York, and there to be at the disposal of their respec- tive relatives. A great number of the citizens of Boston attended the funeral rites in Salem. Minute guns were fired at 1 o'clock, and the flags were displayed half-mast from the frigate Constitution, the vessels in the harbour, the forts, gun-houses, and public buildings. A com- pany of artillery left town for Salem on Sunday eve- ning, to assist in the funeral honors. Their remains were soon after conveyed to New- York, where a procession was formed, which, with the spectators, it is supposed, amounted to fifty thousand. The burial service was once more performed, and the dead committed to the tomb. LOSS OF LAWRENCE AND THE CHESAPEAKE. "Pro Patria" Of the sea-fight in the time of the Commonwealth, it is said, by a British historian, "that Blake, who was victor, gained not more honor than Tromp, who was 54> NAVAL MONUMENT. vanquished." The remark is alike true of the recent engagement. The perseverance of Broke was equal- led by the promptness of Lawrence. This vessel was met the instant it was ascertained there was no other to meet. His very first movement was announced to the foe, who, in plain sight, was challenging battle and crushing defiance. His going into action was to be full as gallant as his reception. But he met his fate in the first ball. "Give not up the ship," he said, and fell, no officer unwounded near, to bear him up in his fall. He cared only for victory and his country ; never for life. No restlessness for battle betrayed him into action. He had fought and conquered ; had realized the glory of victory, and helped to establish the honor of his country. Not to go out would be an acknowledge- ment of victory. The result of a meeting could be no more. True, she had a crew picked from the squadron. But were not American seaman equal to any ? Her captain and men well known to each other. Can mine want confidence in me ? Has she not been long upon the cruise, and preparing for the purpose ? What then ? Are we not always ready ? And what if she be the better sailer ? The challenger will not dare to retreat ; and I shall willingly spare him the trouble of pursuit. The die was cast ; and let those event-enlightened reasoners who have now the presumtion to think it was then cast in rashness, ask themselves the question, what they would not have said, and what others would not have said had the Chesapeake to this hour remain- ed in port, supinely at anchor, beholding the British flag, day by day, cross and recross the harbour, wa- ving, triumphantly, from a frigate not so decidedly her superior, as to be deemed generally much more than a match. As for Lawrence, if he had had " forty thou- sand lives, "he would have thought the loss of all was gain to the surviving such a sight. If not rasli in going out, still less can this imputa- tion be cast upon his commencing the battle. He was NAVAL MONUMENT. 55 not only so cautious as not to waste a single ball at a fruitless distance ; but so gloriously collected as to hold himself in reserve, and receive his enemy's suc- cessive fires, until within musket shot he was able to pour in his whole broadside at once. To what then was owing the sudden termination of this deadly con- flict ? Not indeed to an explosion that swept the deck of its officers. Mistaking only the cause, never was conjecture more fatally right as to the affect. The cap- tain, every lieutenant without exception, officers of mar- ines, many of the midshipman, the sailing master, the boatswain, were all, early in the action, levelled with the deck ; and at the precise point of time, when it was most of all important that the Chesapeake should gain a particular position, at the instant of boarding, the loss of an assential part of her rigging threw her into the wind, and gave to the enemy the decisive advantage. The desperation not over, Broke now led his boar- ders; an effort, Lawrence doubtless had equalled, but for his previous disability ; and had probably made his adversary bitterly repent his daring temerity. Nothing is farther than blame from any single officer on board. Ludlow, the 1st lieutenant, received three balls in the fight, and has since carried them to the grave. Every man did his duty. The enemy have gained a battle, in which it may be said, wither dis- paragement to their prowess, that certainly their valour and their skill could not have been greater than was their good fortune. We grudge them not the only laurel they have won. Under these circumstan- ces, were it not deeply drenched in the blood of her sons, our country could say to the enemy, "take it, and welcome." Most probably the annals of the world may in vain be challenged to furnished another instance of so short an engagement, and on each side such tremen- dous execution. Capt. Lawrence, at the time of his death, had been nearly sixteen years in the service, with only one fur- lough, and that of six weeks. In September, 1798, 56 NAVAL MONUMENT. he entered as midshipman ; and in two years was promoted to an acting lieutenant in the Adams, Capt. Robinson, in which capacity he continued, till the re- duction of the navy ; an event which alone prevented his appointment being confirmed. He, however, was not to remain midshipman long. In the war with Tri- poli he was promoted to a lieutenancy, and was orig- inally the 1st officer of the Enterprize, but afterwards removed to the John Adams. He signalized himself in this memorable warfare by volunteering as first lieutenant, with about seventy men and Decatur in the ketch Intrepid of 4 guns, to destroy the Phila- delphia, of 44, in the harbour of Tripoli, and at the very mouth of the Bashaw's cannon. He returned to this country with Preble ; and to Tripoli as comman- der of gun boat No. 6. Nearly five years in all he served against the Turks ; and was afterwards con- stantly engaged ; in the Constitution as first lieuten- ant — and in the Vixen, Wasp, Argus and Hornet, as commander. His first cruise the present war was un- der Com. Rodgers ; and we all remember what inter- est his countrymen took in that remonstrance, tem- perate, yet firm, which he made so immediately after his return, against the unprecedented promotion of the gallant Morris, and in which he contrived, with delicacy and spirit, at once to save the feelings of a brother, and to vindicate his own. Under the coun- tenance of Rodgers and of Bainbridge he urged his appeal, but left it to its fate, and sailed with the lat- ter upon that brilliant cruise which eventuated so glo- riously to his country, his commander and himself. Of the right and fitness of challenging in a public war and at sea, we have no doubt. This whole business of naval warfare, incalculable as it is in its importance to a commercial nation, is yet a strife only for glory. It is not to enrich or augment one fleet at the expense of another ; to support a country by spoils, or extend empire by the conquest of ships. It is a contest for superiority, a mere struggle for distinction; and the opportunity, which cannot otherwise be met, may NAVAL MONUMENT. 57 very fairly be sought. But let those refined minds, those nicely scrupulous souls, who quarrel upon prin- ciple with the right oPchallenge, consider how Lawrence was circumstanced ; and either withhold their censure, in this instance at least, from his challenge to the Bonne Citoyenne, or avow, at once, their utter unwil- lingness to pardon anything to "poor human nature." He had left a country, which he had certainly reason to distrust as regardless of his claims, and when he was as yet uncertain what was their fate. Unless those claims were answered, he was publickly pled- ged to go into retirement on his return, to the minds of some men perhaps with doubtful dignity, to the for- feiture of his only object in life, and to the rendering utterly useless all his habits of living. To this, how- ever, he was equal. But "a wounded spirit who can bear ?" The Bonne Citoyenne however did not come out ; and as far as may be infered from the fate of the Peacock, a vessel equal in force to the Bonne Cit- oyenne, there was no rashness in giving this challenge, since, had she come out, her fate, in all human prob- ability had been the same. But she saved her money and lost her credit. The challenge declined was pronounced by high authority "a victory gained/' But the character of James Lawrence not to be left to any constructive victory, however fair the con- struction. On his way home he fell in with the Pea- cock, which in less than 15* minutes he compelled to make signs of distress as her signal for surrender ; and, to his eternal honor be it recorded, lost more men in saving, than in conquering the enemy. One man only was killed in the battle. Three of his "brave fel- lows" went down in attempting to save the vanquish- ed from the sinking vessel. * It is said that Capt. L. stated in conversion, on his last visit to this town, that the interval between firing his first shot and the Peacock's hoisting her flag, union down, was only 11 minutes by the watch ; but as his clerk had got it down 15, he thought that time short enough, and would not correct it. This certainly justifi- ed the statement in the Halifax papers, " that a vessel, moored for the purpose of experiment, could not have been sunk sooner." s 58 NAVAL MONUMENT. It is with delight the most exquisite ; with pleasure the most elevated ; that we dwell upon incidents like these, which have invariable characterized all our na- val achievements. Truly our ocean heroes are hu- manely glorious. Such has been their humanity, it is difficult to say, whether the enemy have more of dread of their valour as warriours, or of admiration at their magnanimity as victors. This engagement with the Peacock has been pro- nounced by Lieut. Ludlow, whom we name with pride, and certainly not without sympathy, not to have been surpassed " for brilliancy of design and boldness of execution," by any of all the bold and brilliant events, that at sea have distinguished this war. Capt. Lawrence was as amiable in his private, as he was admirable in his professional life.* The do- mestic were in the same circle with the ocean virtues, each heightening the charm of the others. As a hus- band, such was the ardour of his affection, that there is a sacredness in the griefs of the chief mourner of his country upon which we dare not suffer even our sympathies abruptly to intrude. As a Christian, his proof of faith in our Father in Heaven was love to every brother upon earth. Reduced foreigners in our own metropolis realized the munificence of his private charity. As a companion, he looked on you only to smile, and with that blandness which is characteristic of child-like simplicity. If in him the gentleman for- got not the sailor, the sailor certainly ever remember- ed the gentleman. As a citizen, believing order to be "heaven's first law," and content with filling up completely his own department, he left to civilians the civil. To political opinions he had however a right, which he exercised without disguise. But satisfied that it must forever be patriotism to fight for one's country, he desired no better naval creed than Blake's * VVitli a heart of a most magnanimous texture, the lamented Lawrence took under his particular care a }'outh, whose father heing killed in the Peacock, was left an orphan, bereaved of parents, and had it not been for our hero, would have been left in his tender years exposed to the shocks of a boisterous world. NAVAL MONUMENT. 59 under Cromwell. "It is still our duty to fight for our country, into ivhat hands soever the government may fall." The funeral solemnities of Capt. Lawrence took place abroad. ' By strangers honored and by strangers mourn 1 d /' His enemies were his mourners; or rather the ene- mies of his country; for personal enemies Lawrence had none. The tears of Britons evinced how much rather they would have shewn homage to his person, than respectful attention to his remains. That flag, from which he had parted but with life, was restored to him in death. "JEEs signal once, but now his shroud! "* The publication of the subsequent is due to the memory of the heroes, who on that disastrous day, so gallantly sacrificed their lives for their country. The members of the court were Com. Bainbridge, and Captains Hull and Smith, names indentified with chivalry, and dear to Americans; and their report con- tains the only authentic account of the engagement with the Shannon. Capt. Lawrence's sailing orders were peremptory; and when the enemy hove in sight, the Chesapeake's crew were mutinous, on account of the non-payment prize-money. The commander could not have diso- beyed his orders with impunity; and mutiny was to be overawed by energy. He passed the day in preparation for action, and in the encouragement of bis men; and before night-fall, the whole ship was an- imated with his heroic soul. The unexampled destruction of the Guerriere was * We would have every opportunity improved of being just to an enemy. As 2apt. Broke had not his senses till after his arrival at Halifax; and as his 1st lieu- enant was killed in the action, the command of two frigates devolving upon a 2d ieutenant at a time when the precise extent of the injury to either could not be tscertained, and when each was a sort of human slaughter house; his paramount, f not his only duty was to make the best of his way to Halifax, especially as Japt. Lawrence was so badly wounded, that his end might have been accelerated >y any attempt at removing him out of the vessel. The utmost then in their >ower to do in this case, has been done, and done well. 60 NAVAL MONUMENT. accomplished in less than 18 minutes, and the van- quished ship had 63 killed and wounded. One third more metal is thrown by the Constitution's than the Chesapeake's broadside; and the Shannon was so cut in her hull, by eight minutes' broadsiding, that it was with difficulty she could be kept afloat during the night; and she numbered 88 killed and wounded. It has been truly remarked, " that the world never wit- nessed so destructive a fire from so limited a broad- side in so short a space." Lawrence fell! and the re- mainder of the fight, if fight it may be called, was as disgraceful as the first eight minutes were brilliant. The moment after Capt. Lawrence was carried below, Capt. Broke boarded our quarter deck at the head of 20 men. Nothing but desperation could have promp- ted or justified the measure. Lieut. Budd, the sen- ior officer, had now gained the spar deck r where there were, with those who had come up, from 60 to 75 well men. No attempt was made to bring more men from the gun-deck, and none on the spar deck to rally the men and charge the boarders. This melancholy pause continued, as Mr. Budd has testified, 3 minutes. In the mean time, Capt. Broke, without making any attack, had collected near 100 men, and proceeded to the attack on the starboad side of the ship. Mr. Budd now perceived a British uniform, and conclud- ed that the men on the quarter deck were the enemy, at whose approach our men fled to the forecastle, pre- cipitated themselves through the fore hatchway to the gun-deck, and from thence to the birth-deck, without an effort to prevent them. A few only of the enemy were killed or wounded by involuntary and accidental blows, and the fire from the tops; and he continued his unresisted havoc, till not a man was left on either deck. Although Lawrence was prostrate, his soul was in arms. From the cockpit he issued his memorable orders — " keep the guns going'- — "fight her till she strikes or sinks" — and when he knew that the enemy had carried the spar deck, he sent the emphatic mes- sage to the gun deck, " don't give up the ship." NAVAL MONUMENT. 61 When he was apprised of the issue, he only remarked, " then the officers of the deck hav'nt toed the mark — the Shannon was whip'd when I left." The officer-like conduct of this gallant martyr, on this day, has been impeached by some of the survivors of that dreadful conflict. The inevitable disadvantages under which he fought a superior ship, perfectly pre- pared; the chivalry with which he courted the con- test; and the brilliancy of it before he fell, should alone rescue his memory from censure. Cruel sacrilege to profane the sanctuary of the tomb to shield living defection from merited disgrace ! Every witness up- on the court-martial, under a close cross-examination, not only repelled the foul slander, but decidedly es- tablished his high character as a commander. In a very unreserved conversation, Com. Decatur, with whom Capt. Lawrence had served much, was asked , " whether his intrinsic merit as an officer, jus- tified the enthusiastic veneration in which the nation held his memory? " After a short pause he answer- ed, " yes, sir, it did; and the fellow died as well as he lived; but it is a part of a soldier's life to die well. He had no talk; but he inspired all about him with ar- dour : he always saw the best thing to be done; he knew the best way to execute it ; and had no more dodge in him than the mainmast," Laudatum est, a laudato viro. This vindication is due to the ashes of the inured patriot. When the ill starred fortunes of this ship are recal- led to memory; when we recollect that her deck was the death scene of our favourte hero, with victory al- most in his grasp, we involuntary adopt the language of Milton's monody upon his shipwrecked friend, — " It was that fatal and perfidious bark ; " Built in the eclipse ; and rigged with curses dark ; " That sunk so low that sacred head of thine ; '' REPORT. The court are unanimously of opinion, that the Chesapeake was gallantly carried into action by her 62 NAVAL MONUMENT. late brave commander ; and no doubt rests with the court from comparison of the injury respectively sus- tained by the frigates, that the fire of the Chesapeake was much superior to that of the Shannon. The Shannon being much cut in her spars and rigging, and receiving^ many shot in and below the water line was reduced almost to a sinking condition, after only a few minutes cannonading from the Chesapeake ; while the Chesapeake was comparatively uninjured. And the court have no doubt, if the Chesapeake had not accidentally fallen on board the Shannon, and the Shannon's anchor got foul in the after quarter port of the Chesapeake, the Shannon must have very soon sur- rendered or sunk. It appears to the court, that as the ships were get- ting foul, Capt Lawrence ordered the boarders to be called ; but the bugle man, Wm. Brown, stationed to call the boarders by sounding a bugle, had deserted his quarters, and when discovered and ordered to call, was unable, from fright, to sound his horn ; that mid- shipmen went below immediately to pass the word for the boarders ; but not being called in the way they had been usually exercised, few came upon the upper deck; confusion prevailed ; a greater part of the men deser- ted their quarters, and ran below. It appears also to the court, that when the Shannon got foul of the Ches- apeake, Capt. Lawrence, his 1st lieutenant, the sailing- master, and lieutenant of marines were all killed or mortally wounded, and thereby the upper deck of the Chesapeake was left without any commanding officer, and with only one or two young midshipmen. It also appears to the court, that previously to the ships get- ting foul, many of the Chesapeake's spar deck division had been killed and wounded, and the number station- ed on that deck thereby considerably reduced ; that these being left without a commissioned officer, or even a warrant officer, except one or two inexperienced, midshipmen, and not being supported by the boarders from the gun deck, almost universally deserted their quarters. And the enemy, availing himself of this de- NAVAL MONUMENT. 63 fenceless state of the Chesapeake's upper deck, board- ed and obtained possession of the ship with very little opposition. From this view of the engagement and careful ex- amination of the evidence, the court are unanimously of opinion, that the capture of the late United States frigate Chesapeake, was occasioned by the following causes ; the almost unexampled early fall of Capt. Lawrence, and all the principal officers ; the bugle- man's desertion of his quarters, and inability to sound his horn ; for the court are of opinion if the horn had been sounded when first ordered, the men being then at their quarters, the boarders would have promptly re- paired to the spar deck, probably have prevented the enemy from boarding — certainly have repelled them, and might have returned the boarding with success ; and the failure of the boarders on both decks to rally on the spar deck, after the enemy had boarded, which might have been done successfully, it is believed from the cautious manner in which the enemy came on board. The court cannot, however, perceive in this almost unexampled concurrence of disastrous circumstances that the national flag has suffered any dishonour from the capture of the United States frigate Chesapeake, by the superior force of the British frigate Shannon, of 52 carriage guns, and 398 men. Nor do this court apprehend that the result of this engagement will in the least discourage our brave seamen from meeting the enemy hereafter on equal terms. The court being also charged to inquire into the con- duct of the officers and men during and after the en- gagement, and thereupon having strictly examined and maturely considered the evidence as recorded, do find the following causes of complaint : First. Against Lieut. Cox ; that being stationed in command of the second division on the main deck, he left his division during the action, while his men were at their quarters, and went upon the upper deck ; that when there and the enemy boarding, or on the point of Q4f NAVAL MONUMENT. boarding, he left the deck to assist Capt. Lawrence be- low, went down with him from the spar deck to the birth deck ; did not return to his division, but went forward on the gun deck ; that while here and the men retreating below, he commanded them to go to their du- ty without enforcing his commands. But as a court of inquiry allows an accused person no opportunity of vindicating his conduct, the members of this court trust that their opinion on the conduct of Lieut. Cox, may not be deemed conclusive against him, without trial by court martial. Second. Against Midshipman Forrest ; that he left his quarters during the action, and did not return to them, and now assigns no reason for his conduct sat- isfactory to this court. Third. Against Midshipman Freshman ; that he behaved in an unofficer-like manner at Halifax, assum- ing a false name at the office of commissary of pris- oners, when obtaining his parole, and was paroled by the name of William Brown. Fourth. Against the crew generally ; that they de- serted their quarters, and ran below after the ships were foul, and the enemy boarded. But it appearing that they behaved well at their quarters before, and fired on the enemy with great rapidity and precision, the court ascribe their misconduct to the confusion natu- rally incident to the early loss of their officers, and the omission of the call of boarders in the accustomed manner. Yet this court is very far from exculpating those who are thus criminal. It is unable to designate by name all the individuals who thus abandoned their du- ty, because most of the officers had recently joined the ship, some only a few days preceding the engagement, and of course could not distinguish the men. The court, therefore, respectfully submit to higher author- ity, the expediency of withholding the wages of the crew. The persons whom the court are able to de- signate by name, as deserters from their stations, are William Brown, bugleman, Joseph llussel, captain of NAVAL MONUMENT. 65 second gun, Peter Frost and John Joyce, seamen. The court further find, that the following persons en- tered the British service at Halifax, viz. Henry En- sign, Peter John, Andrew Simpson, Peter Langrun, Magness Sparring, Joseph Galla, Martin Anderson, Francis Paris, John White, boy, Thomas Arthur, Charles Reynolds, John Pierce jun. Andrew Den- ham, Thomas Jones, Charles Goodman, Joseph Anto- nio, Christopher Stevens, Charles Bowden, Chas. Westbury, Joseph Smith, George Williams, and George Cordell. The court further find and report, that William Wainwright, William Worthington, and James Par- ker, the last of whom was born in Salem, Massachu- sets, were claimed by the enemy as British subjects, and sent on board of the enemy's ships of war. This court respectfully beg leave to superadd, that unbiassed by any illiberal feelings towards the enemy, they feel it their duty to state, that the conduct of the enemy after, boarding and carrying the Chesapeake, was a most unwarrantable abuse of power after success. The court is aware that in carrying a ship by board- ing the full extent of the command of an officer can- not be readily exercised ; and that improper violence may unavoidably ensue. When this happens in the moment of contention, a magnanimous conquered foe will not complain. But the fact has been clearly es- tablished before this court, that the enemy met with little opposition on the upper deck, and none on the gun-deck. Yet after they had carried the ship, they fired from the gun-deck down the hatchway upon the birth-deck, and killed and wounded several of the Chesapeake's crew, who had retreated there, were un- armed and incapable of making any opposition ; that some balls were fired even into the cockpit : and what excites the utmost abhorrence, this outrage was com- mitted in the presence of a British officer standing at the hatchway. W. BAINBRIDGE, President 9 66 NAVAL MONUMENT. Thefollowing is a copy of the letter, denominated a chal- lenge, sent from, the commander of the British frigate Shannon to the commander of the American fri- gateChesapeake. Capt. Lawrence sailed before this letter reached Boston. LETTER FROM CAPT. BROKE TO CAPT. LAWRENCE. His Britanic Majesty's ship Shannon, Sir, Off Boston, June, 1813. As the Chesapeake appears now ready for sea, I re- quest you will do me the favor to meet the Shannon with her, ship to ship, to try the fortune of our re- spective flags. To an officer of your character, it re- quires some apology for proceeding to further partic- ulars. Be assured, sir, that it is not from any doubt I can entertain of your wishing to close with my pro- posals, but merely to provide an answer to any objection which might be made, and very reasonable, upon the chance of our receiving unfair support. After the diligent attention which we had paid to Com.Rodgers; the pains I took to detach all force but the Shannon and Tenedos to such a distance that they could not possibly join in any action fought in sight of the Capes ; and the various verbal messages which had been sent into Boston to that effect ; we were much disappointed to find the commodore had eluded us by sailing on the first chance, after the prevailing easterly winds had obliged us to keep an ofting from the coast. He perhaps wished for some stronger as- surance of a fair meeting. I am therefore induced to address you more particularly, and to assure you, that what I write I pledge my honor to perform to the ut- most of my power. The Shannon mounts twenty- four guns upon her broadside, and one light boat gun; eighteen pounders on her main deck, and thirty-two pound carronades on her quarter deck and forecastle ; and is manned with a complement of three hundred men and boys (a large proportion of the latter,) be- sides thirty seamen, boys and passengers, who were NAVAL MONUMENT. 67 taken out of re-captured vessels lately. I am thus minute, because a report has prevailed in some of the Boston papers that we had one hundred and fifty men additional, lent us from La Hogue, which really was never the case. La Hogue is now gone to Halifax for provisions, and I will send all other ships beyond the power of interfering with us, and will meet you wher- ever it is most agreeable to you : From six to ten leagues east of Cape Cod Light House, from eight to ten leagues east of Cape Ann Light on Cashe's Ledge in lat. 43 o N. at any bearing and distance yo^u please to fix off the south breakers of Nantucket, or the shoals off St. George's Bank. If you will favor me with any plan of signals or telegraph, I will warn you (if sailing under this prom- ise) should any of my friends be too nigh or any where in sight, until I can detach them out of the way, or I would sail with you under a flag of truce to any place you think safest from our cruisers, hauling it down when fair to begin hostilities. You must, sir, be aware that my proposals are high- ly advantageous to you, as you cannot proceed to sea singly in the Chesaj)eake without imminent risk of be- ing crushed by the superior force of the numerous British squadrons which are now abroad, where all your efforts, in case of rencontre, would however gal- lant, be perfectly hopeless. I entreat you, sir, not to imagine that I am urged by mere personal vanity io the wish of meeting the Chesapeake; or that I de- pend only upon your personal ambition for your ac- ceding to this invitation : we have both higher and no- bler motives. You will feel it as a compliment if I say, that the result of our meeting may be the most grateful service I can render to my country ; and I i doubt not that you, equally confident of success, will feel convinced, that it is only by repeated triumphs in even combats that your little navy can now hope to console your country for the loss of that trade it can no longer protect. Favor me with a speedy reply. 68 NAVAL MONUMENT. We are short of provisions and water, and cannot stay long here. T have the honor to be, sir, your obedient humble servant. (Signed) P. B. V. BROKE, Capt. of H. B. M. ship Shannon. N. B. For the general service of watching your coast, it is requisite for me to keep another ship in company, to support me with her guns and boats when employed near the land, particularly to aid each other if either ship in chase should get on shore. You must be aware that I cannot, consistently with my duty, wave so great an advantage for this general . service by detaching my consort, without any assur- ance on your part, of meeting me directly ; and that you will neither seek or admit aid from any other of your armed vessels, if I detach mine expressly for the sake of meeting you. — Should any special order re- strain you from thus answering a formal challenge, you may yet oblige me by keeping my proposal a se- cret, and appointing any place you like to meet us (within 300 miles of Boston) in any given number of days after you sail ; as, unless you agree to an inter- view, I may be busied on other service, and perhaps be at a distance from Boston when you go to sea. Choose your terms — but let us meet. To the Commander of the United States frigate Chesapeake. ENDORSEMENT ON THE ENVELOP. We have thirteen American prisoners on board, which I will give you for as many British sailors, if you will send them out, otherwise being privateersmen, they must be detained NAVAL MONUMENT. 69 ARGUS AND PELICAN. Extract of a letter from James Inderwick, surgeon of the late United States brig Argus, to the Secre- tary of the Navy. Boston, September 5, 1814. Having been appointed by Com. Decatur, as act- ing surgeon onboard the late United States hr\g Argus, a short time previous to her departure from New- York, and having served in that capacity until the un- fortunate termination of her cruise ; I was, with her surviving officers, detained as a prisoner of war, on parole, in England. I have now, Sir, however, the honor of reporting to you my arrival on the the 3d inst. at this port, in the cartel ship Saratoga, having at length obtained my release and passport as a non- combatant. As Lieut. Watson, our surviving com- manding officer, has been unable, under parole re- strictions, to transmit any official documents, relative to the action and capture of the Argus, I have the honor to enclose, for your information, a report of the casualties attending that event. I regret that I have not yet been able to furnish the wounded with regu- lar certificates ; it was .impossible without personal communication with them to obtain the information necessary to the filling up the blanks, with the precis- ion, enforced by the orders of your honorable depart- ment. The list of killed and wounded, as given by Dr. Inderwick, is omitted, as a more complete account is given by Lieut. Watson, in his official letter. Letter from Lieut Watson, 1st of the late United States brig Argus, to the Secretary of the Navy. Sir, Norfolk, March 2, 1815. Cirumstances during my residence inEngland having heretofore prevented my attention to the painful duty which devolved on me by the death of my gallant com- mander, Capt. Wm. H. Allen, of the late U. S. brig Argus, I have now the honor to state for your infor- mation, that having landed the Minister Plchipoten- 70 NAVAL MONUMENT. tiary (Mr. Crawford) and suite at L' Orient, we pro- ceeded on the cruise which had been directed by the department, and after capturing twenty vessels (a list of the names and other particulars of which I have the honor to enclose,) being in lat. 52° 15' N. long. 5° 50' W. on the 14th Aug. 1813, we discovered at 4 o'clock A. M. a large brig of war standing down under a press of sail upon our weather quarter, the wind being at south, and the Argus close hauled on the starboard tack : we immediately prepared to re- ceive her ; and at 30 minutes after 4, being unable to get the weather gage, we shortened sail, and gave her an opportunity of closing. At 6, the brig having dis- played English colours, we hoisted our flag ; wore round, and gave her the larboard broadside (be- ing at this time within grape distance) which was re- turned, and the action commenced within the range of musketry. At 4 minutes after 6, Capt. Allen was wounded, and the enemy shot away our main braces, main spring-stay, gaff, and trysail-mast. At 8 min- utes after 6, Capt Allen, being much exhausted by the loss of blood, was taken below. At 12 minutes after 6, lost our spritsail-yard and the principle part of the standing rigging on the larboard side of the foremast. At this time I received a wound on the head from a grape shot, which for a time rendered me incapable of attending to duty, and was carried below ; I had, however, the satisfaction of recollecting on my recov- ery, that nothing which the most gallant exertions could effect, would be left undone by Lieut. W. H. Allen, jun. who succeeded to the command of the deck. Lieut. Allen reports, at 14 minutes after 6, the enemy being in our weather quarter, edged off, for the purpose of getting under our stern, but the Argus luffed close to, with the main topsail aback, and giv- ing him a raking broadside, frustrated his attempt. At 18 minutes after 6, the enemy shot away our pre- venter, main-braces and main-topsail-tye ; and the Argus having lost the use of her after sails, fell on NAVAL MONUMENT. 71 before the wind, when the enemy succeeded in pas- sing our stern, and ranged on the starboard side. At 25 minutes after 6, the wheel ropes and running rig- ging of every discription being shot away, the Jlrgus became unmanageable ; and the enemy, not having sustained any apparent damage, had it completely in his power to choose a position, and continued to play up- on our starboard quarter, occasionally shifting his sit- uation, until 30 minutes after 6, when I returned to the deck, the enemy being under our stern, within pistol shot, where she continued to rake us until 38 minutes after 6, when we prepared to board, but, in consequence of our shattered condition, were unable to effect it ; the enemy then passed our broadside, and took a position on our starboard bow. From this time until 47 minutes after 6, we were exposed to a cross or raking fire, without being able to oppose but little more than musketry to the broadside of the ene- my, our guns being much disabled and seldom brought to bear. The Jlrgus having now suffered much, in hull and rigging, as also in killed and wounded, among the former of whom (exclusive of our gallant captain) we have to lament the loss of two meritorious young offi- cers in Midshipmen Delphy and Edwards ; and being exposed to a galling fire, which from the enemy's a- bility to manage his vessel, we could not avoid, I deemed it necessary to surrender, and was taken pos- session of by his Britannic majesty's sloop the Pelican, of twenty-one carriage guns, viz. sixteen 32 pound carronades, four long 6's, and one 12 pound carronade. I hope this measure will meet your approbation, and that the result of this action, when the superior size and metal of our opponent, and the fatigue which the crew, &,c, of the Jlrgus underwent from a very rapid succession of captures, is considered, will not be thought unworthy of the flag under which we serve. I have the honor to inclose a list of killed and woun- ded, and feel great satisfaction in reporting the general good conduct of the meritorious officers engaged on - 72 NAVAL MONUMENT. this occasion, and particularly the zeal and activity- displayed by Lieut. Allen, who you will observe for a time commanded on deck. I have the honour to be, Sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, Hon. B. Crowninshield, W. H. WATSON, Sec'y of the navy. Late of the U. S. brig Argus. Killed. Richard Delphy, Wm. W. Edwards, mid- shipman ; Joshua Jones, Wm. Finley, Wm. Knowl- ton, George Gardner, seamen. Died of their wounds. William H. Allen, captain; James White, carpenter; Joseph Jordan, boatswain's mate; Francis Eggert, and Charles Back- ster, seamen. Wounded. William H. Watson, 1st lieutenant; Colin M'Leod, boatswain ; John Sniffer, carpenter's mate ; John Young, quarter master ; and eight sea- men. During a few weeks preceding the loss of the Argus, she had captured 23 British vessels, of various sizes, some of great value. The tonage of the Argus* is given as follows ; Length of keel for tonnage 80 feet, } Breadth of beam do. 28 do. \ 298 68-95 tons Depth of hold do. 12 ft. 8 in. ) A London paper has the following: the Pelican brig of 18 guns, which so nobly captured the Argus sloop or war, was commanded by Capt. Searle, when she beat the French frigate Medea, of 44 guns, into Guad aloupe, after an action of two hours in the year 1799. FUNERAL OF CAPT. ALLEN. At Plymouth Eng. on the 21st of August, was interred with military honors, William Henry Allen, Esq. late commander of the United States sloop of war Argus, who lost his left leg in an action with his Majesty' sloop of war Pelican, J. F. Maples Esq. *L"iilt in Boston, uy Mr. Edmund Hart. i , NAVAL MONUMENT. 73 captain, in St. George's Channel on the 14th ; of which wound he died in the Mill-prison Hospital, on the 18th following. The procession left Mill-prison at 12 o'clock : the coffin was covered with a velvet pall, on which was spread the American ensign, under which the action was fought, and upon which the hat and sword of the deceased were laid. On the coffin being removed to the hearse, the guard saluted ; and when deposited in the hearse the procession moved forward, the band playing the " Dead March in Saul." On arrival, near the church, the guard clubbed arms, single files inward, through which the procession passed to the church, into which the corpse was carried and placed in the centre aisle, while the funeral services were read by the Rev. Vicar ; after which it was removed and interred in the south yard (passing through the guard in the same order from as to the church,) on the right of Mr. Delphy, midshipman of the Argus, who lost both legs in the same action, and was buried the preceeding evening. ORDER OF PROCESSION. Guard of Honor. Lieut. Col. of Royal Marines, with two companies of that corps. The Captains, Subalterns,and field Adjutants, (Officers with hat bands and scarfs.) Royal Marine Band. Vicar and Curate of St. Andrew's. Clerk of ditto. THE HEARSE With the corpse of the diseased Captain, attended by eight seamen, late of the Argus, with crape round their arms, tied with white crape ribbons ; Also, eight British Captains of the Royal Navy, as Pall bearers, With hat bands and scarfs. Captain Allen, s servants in mourning. 10 74 NAVAL MONUMENT. The Officers, late of the Argus, in uniform, with crape sashes, and hat bands, two and two. John Hawker Esq. late American Vice-Consul, and his Clerks. Captain Pellowe, Commissioner for Prisoners of war. Dr. McGrath, Chief Medical Officer at Mill-prison Depot. Captains of the Royal Navy in port, two and two. Marine and Army Officers, two and two. Servants of the American Officers, two and two. Followed by a very numerous and respectable retinue of Inhabitants. EXTRACT FR03I THE BRITISH NAVAL CHRONICLE. " As several misstatements have appeared in the public prints relative to the death of the late Capt. Al- len, we subjoin the following particulars, communica- ted to us by a friend, which may be depended on : Capt. Allen's left thigh was amputated by his own surgeon, in a very proper manner, about three quar- ters of an hour after the close of the action. — On the morning after the arrival of the A?*gus, (Tuesday,) the chief medical officer from Mill-prison attended him, and soon discovered, that dangerous symptoms, which had escaped the observation of his surgeon, who thought favourably of his situation, were insidious- ly approaching, and accordingly communicated his ap- prehensions, and recommended such remedies as were deemed advisable. In the evening he was again visi- ted, when the prognostic given in the morning was found too visibly verified. On the following day his symptoms were much aggravated, and his immediate removal to Mill-prison Hospital was strongly recom- mended, in order to obtain the most prompt remedies, and where he might have all the care and attention his situation demanded. He arrived about noon; but in spite of every effort, gradually sunk, until he breathed his last, about 11 o'clock that night, during which pe- riod he wns never left by his physician. We under- stand he was not conscious of the danger of his situa- NAVAL MONUMENT. 75 tion, but conversed familiarly with those present with him until about three quarters of an hour before he died. His death was conceived to be chiefly occasion- ed by the great loss of blood which he sustained pre- vious to amputation, by his persisting in remaining on deck after he was wounded. Throughout the whole, he bore his sufferings with that manly, determined for- titude and composure, which might be expected of a brave and gallant officer, and never once complained of pain ; but his mind constantly dwelt on the loss of his ship, which he regretted in the most feeling and manly manner. In person he was about six feet high, a model of symmetry and manly comeliness, and in his manner and conversation a highly finished and accom- plished gentleman. William Henry Allen* was an officer, no less dis- tinguished by his bravery, than the uniform courtesy and amenity of his manners. In ordinary life we dis- covered nothing of those high qualities, for which, in the hour of danger, he was found to be so preeminent. He relaxed into all the mildness of the polished and amiable gentleman, stated his opinions with modesty, and carefully abstained from irritating or insulting language. His conversation, although peculiarly un- ostentatious, was luminous and instructive, and com- bined the elegance of a scholar with the sound prac- tical sense of a man of intercourse with the world. He studied naval tactics as a science, and laboured to adorn and decorate the stern and masculine character of the sailor, with the milder graces and softer embel- lishments. In this he succeeded completely, and was capable of turning to the view the stern and intrepid side of his character, or the milder and more amiable, as occasion required. In his friendships he was ardent and constant. All these advantages were rendered still more conspicuous by a noble masculine deport- ment, and the fine forms which he inherited from nature A stranger in his company, and perfectly ignorant of his character, would find his heart drawn powerfully to- *Lieut. Allen was a native of Rhode Island. 76 NAVAL MONUMENT. wards him, by the predominant and pervading sympa- thy, which such endearing qualities excite. He would be disposed to converse more with him, and to culti- vate his friendship. Every hour he would feel this at- tachment growing stronger, as the varied excellences of his character were disclosed in succession. Such was William Henry Allen. He had adorned his name by his bravery, which was so conspicuous in the affair of the Macedonian. This enlarged his ideas and made him pant for fame, that last infirmity of no- ble minds. He has fallen, indeed, but for all the purposes of life he had lived long enough. He had enjoyed the confidence of his county, and died in the performance of his duty. This humble wreath is not less a tribute to individual friendship, than to justice. The following is from an Irish news-paper. It would be injustice not to notice the excellent con- duct of Capt. Allen, of the Argus. He allowed the passengers and crews of the Betsey and Mariner to remove every article of their private property, and in or- der that they might have liberty to do so, he would not suffer one of his officers or crew to be present be- low, whilst they were employed in packing up their effects. Capt. Gilbert, of the Mariner, had left some articles of cabin furniture behind, which Capt. Allen sent after him in his boat. A great coat, belonging to an officer of one of the captured ships, was missing, and it was found in the possession of one of the crew of the Argus. Capt. Allen immediately ordered the man to be tied up, and he actually received a severe flogging. Considerable sums in specie were saved by the passengers, as Capt. Allen would not allow his men to touch a single article. COURT OF INQUIRY. The following decision and opinion of the court of inquiry, convened at Baltimore, in April last, to in- vestigate the causes of the loss of the Argus, have been received and approved by the secretary of the navy. NAVAL MONUMENT. 77 The court, in pursuance of the authority by which they were convened, having carefully examined into the causes of the loss by capture of the U. S. sloop of war Argus, under the command of the late W. H. Allen, master commandant in the navy of the United States, and also into the conduct of the officers and crew of the said sloop of war, before and after her sur- render to the enemy's ship Pelican, and having mature- ly deliberated upon all the testimony, they find the following facts : 1. It is proved, that in the number of her crew, and in the number and calibre of her guns, the Pelican was decidedly superiour to the Argus. 2. They find that the crew of the Argus was very much exhausted by the continued and extraordinary fatigue and exposure to which they had been subjec- ted for several weeks, and particularly for twenty four hours immediately preceding the action. 3. They find that every officer and man of the Ar- gus, (with the exception of one man, Jacob Allister, and one boy, Hendrick ) made use of every practicable exertion to capture the British sloop of war Pelican. They are therefore of opinion, that every officer and man, with the exception before mentioned, dis- played throughout the engagement, a zeal, activity, and spirit in defence of the vessel and flag committed to their protection, which entitles them to the undi- minished confidence and respect of their government and fellow citizens, and do therefore honorably acquit them. ENTERPRIZE AND BOXER. LETTER FROM COM. BAINBRIDGE TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Boston September 7, 1813. The enclosed letters will give you the information of a brilliant victory, gained by the United States brig Ente?*prize, over his Britannic Majesty's brig Boxer, of considerable superiority of force. Nothing 78 NAVAL MONUMENT. that I can say would add to the lustre of the gallant action, which so decidedly speaks for itself. But I cannot restrain my deep regret for the loss of so val- uable an officer as the brave Lieut. Burrows. I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, Hon. William Jones, W. BAINBRIDGE. Scc'y of the navy. LETTER FROM CAPT. HULL TO THE SEc'y OF THE NAVY. Sir, Portland, September 7, 1813 I had the honor last evening to forward you, by ex- press, through the hands of Com. Bainbridge, a let- ter, received from Samuel Storer Esq. navy agent at this place, detailing an account of the capture of the British brig Boxer, by the United States brig Enter- prize. I now have to inform you, that I left Portsmouth this morning, and have this moment arrived, and, as the mail is closing, I have only time to enclose you the report of Lt. M'Call, of the Entcrprize, and ;o as- sure you that a statement of the situation of the two vessels, as to the damage they have received, &c, shall be forwarded as soon as surveys can be made The Boxer has received much damage in her hull, masts, and sails ; indeed it was with difficulty she could be kept afloat to get her in. The Enter prize is only in- jured in her masts and sails. I have the honor to be, &c. Hon. William Jones, ISAAC HULL. Secr'y of the navy. official account. United States brig Enlerprize, Sir, Portland, Sept. 7, 1813. In consequence of the unfortunate death of Lieut. William Burrows, late commander of this vessel, it devolves, on me to acquaint you with the result of my cruise. After sailing from Portsmouth, on the first inst. we steered to the eastward ; and on the morning NAVAL MONUMENT. 79 of the 3d, off Wood Island, discovered a schooner, which we chased into this harbour where we anchored. On the morning of the 4th weighed anchor, and swept out, and continued our course to the eastward. Hav- ing received information of several privateers being off Manhagan, we stood for that place ; and on the following morning, in the bay near Penguin Point, discovered a brig, getting under way, which appeared to be a vessel of war, and to which we immediately gave chase. She fired several guns, and stood for us, having four ensigns hoisted. After reconnoitring and discovering her force, and the nation to which she be- longed, we hauled upon a wind, to stand out of the bay, and at 3 o'clock shortened sail, tacked to run down, with an intention to bring' her to close action. At 20 minutes after 3 P. M. when within half pistol shot, the firing commenced from both, and after being warmly kept up, and with some manoeuvering, the en- emy hailed, and said they had surrendered, about 4 P. M. their colonics being nailed to the masts, could not be hauled down. She proved to be his B. M. brig Boxer, of 14 guns, Samuel Blythe, Esq. commander, who fell in the early part of the engagement, having received a cannon shot through the body. And I am sorry to add, that Lieut. Burrows, who had gallantly led us into action, fell also about the same time by a musket ball, which terminated his existance in 8 hours. The Enterprize suffered much in spars and rigging, and the Boxer in spars, rigging, and hull, having ma- ny shots between wind and water. It would be doing injustice to the merit of Mr. Til- linghast, 2d lieutenant, were I not to mention the able assistance I received from him during the remainder of the engagement, by his strict attention to his own division and other departments, and of the officers and crew generally, I am happy to add, their cool and de- termined conduct have my warmest approbation and applause. As no muster roll, that can be fully relied on, has come into my possession, I cannot exactly state the 80 NAVAL MONUMENT. number killed and wounded on board the Boxer, but from information received from the officers of that vessel, it appears there were between 20 and 35 killed, and 14 wounded. Enclosed is a list of the killed and wounded on board the Enterprize. I have the honor to be, &,c. EDWARD R. M'CALL, Senior officer. Isaac Hull, Esq. Commanding naval officer on the eastern station. List of killed and wounded on board the United States brig Enterprize, in the engagement tvith the Brit- ish brig Boxer, the 5th of Sejjtember 1813. Killed, Nathaniel Garren, seaman. Wounded, William Burrows Esq., commander, (since dead ;) Kervin Waters, midshipman, mortally ; Elisha Blossom, carpenter's mate, (since dead,) David Norton, quartermaster : Russel Coats, do. ; Thomas Owings, do. ; Benjamin Gammon, boatswain's mate ; four seamen and one marine. Killed, 1. Wounded, 13. Since dead of wounds, 3. EDWARD R. M'CALL, Senior officer. LETTER FROM ISAAC HULL ESQ. TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. U. S. Navy Yard, Portsmouth, Sir, September, 14, 1813. I have the honor to forward you by mail the flags of the late British brig Boxer, which were nailed to her mast heads at the time she engaged, and was captured by the U. S. brig Enterprize. Great as the pleasure is that I derive from performing this part of my duty, I need not tell you how different my feelings would have been, could the gallant Burrows have had this honor. He went into action most gallantly, and the difference of injury done the two vessels proves how nobly he fought. I have the honor to be &c. ISAAC HULL. NAVAL MONUMENT. 81 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COM. HULL TO COM. BA1NBRIDGE. September, 10, 1813. "I yesterday visited the two brigs, and was astonish- ed to see the difference of injury sustained in the ac- tion. The Enlerprize has but one 18 pound shot in her hull, and one in her mainmast, and one in her fore- mast ; her sails are much cut with grape shot, and there are a great number of grape lodged in her sides, but no injury done by them. — The Boxer has eighteen or twenty 18 pound shot in her hull, most of them at the water's edge, several stands of 18 pound grape stick in her side, and such a quantity of small grape, that I did not undertake to count them. Her masts, sails, and spars are literally cut to pieces, several of her guns dismounted, and unfit for service ; her top- gallant forecastle nearly taken off by the shot, her boats cut to pieces, and her quarters injured in pro- portion. To give you an idea of the quantity of shot about her, I inform you, that I counted in her main- mast alone three 18 pound shot holes, 18 large grape shot holes, 16 musket ball holes, and a large number of smaller shot holes, without counting above the cat harpins. We find it impossible to get at the number killed ; no papers are found, by which we can ascertain it. I however counted upwards of 90 hammocks, which were in her netting with beds in them, besides several beds without hammocks ; and she has excellent ac- commodations for all her officers below in state rooms ; so that I have no doubt, that she had 100 men on board. We know that she has several of the Rattler's men on board, and a quantity of wads was taken out of the Rattler, loaded with four large grape shot, with a small hole in the centre, to put in a cartridge, that the inside of the wad may take fire when it leaves the gun : in short, she is in every respect completely fitted, and her accomodations exceed any thing I have seen in a vessel of her class." 11 82 NAVAL MONUMENT. Remarks. There have been various opinions res- pecting the relative force of the vessels ; and some un- generous attempts have been made to diminish the splendor of the victory. The foregoing extracts set- tle the question of force and skill. It appears, that in number of men the enemy were equal ; in number of guns it is well known the enemy were superior ; and the vast difference of execution confirms (if confirma- tion were wanted) the fact of the high degree of the superiority of our seamen in the art of gunnery. In addition to the particulars officially given we have the following from other sources. The Enter prize rates as 12 guns, but carries 16, viz. 14 eighteen pound car- ronades and 2 long 9s ; her officers and crew consis- ted of 102 persons, and her burthen is about 265 tons. The Boxer rates as a 14 gun brig, but carries 18, viz. sixteen 18 pound carronades, and 2 long 9s ; her force, at the time of the action, was 104 men, and her burthen is about 300 tons. The first is an old, light built vessel, the latter is new and very strong. For several days before the Boxer sailed from St. John's, great exertions were made by the government, officers, as well as the magistrates of the place, to man and equip her in a perfect manner to fight the Enter- prize . Gapt. Blythe sailed with the most confident belief of speedily returning to port, crowned with the same laurels, that decked the brow T of Broke. Soon after the arrival of the Enterprize, and her prize at portland, the bodies of the two commanding officers, Lieut. Burrows and Capt. Blythe, were brought on shore in tenoared barges, rowed at minute strokes, by masters of ships, accompanied by most of the barges and boats in the harbour, while minute guns were fired from the two vessels. A grand procession was then formed, which moved through the principle streets, to the Rev. Mr. Paysons meeting house, where the rites of sepulture were performed, with appropri- ate music, and from thence to the place of interment. The order of procession was as follows : Military escort, NAVAL MONUMENT. 83 Composed of a rifle company and two companies of infantry. Selectmen of Portland. Town Treasurer and Sheriff of the county. Town Clerk and other municipal officers. The Reverend Clergy. Mr. Le Sassier, qq Mr. Shields, £ © Mr. O'Neal, g g £ Mr. Turner, Mr. Tillinghast, pq Mr. M'Call. Chief mourners Dr. Washington, Capt. Hull. Officers of the brig Enterprize. Crew of the brig Enterprize. Lemuel Weeks, Jun. pj William merrill, £n ffl Seth Barnes, § © H James Combs, Joshua Knights, pq John Alden. Officers of the brig Boxer, as mourners, and Officers on Parole. Crew of the brig Boxer. Officers of the United States Navy. Ship masters and Mates. Marshall of Maine. Navy Agent, and The late Consul General to the Barbary powers. Collector of the Port, and Surveyor. Superintendant General of Military Supplies. Officers of the Army of the United States. Military Officers of the State, in uniform. Judges, and othe* Civil Officers of the United States. Members of Congress. Judiciary of the Commonwealth. Members of the State Legislature. Civil Officers of the State. Portland Marine Society. 84 NAVAL MONUMENT. Presidents, Directors and Officers of the Banks, and Insurance offices. Citizens in general. The funeral was attended with all the honors that the civil and military authorities of the place, and the great body of the people could bestow. The whole scene was strikingly impressive. The bells were toll- ed, and two companies of artillery fired minute guns, which were repeated from forts Preble and Scammel. Lieut. Burrows was a young man of uncommon worth. He was the son of Col. Burrows, of South Carolina, formerly of the marine corps. He lived with honor, and died with glory. By his early death * his country has lost an able commander, and his two surviving sisters a brother, whose excellencies they will never cease to remember. He was intelligent, in- trepid, generous and humane. He was ambitious to add lustre to the American navy, and eagerly rushed into a combat, which issued in a signal victory over a superior force. He received a mortal wound at the commencement of the action, but refused to be car- ried below until the sword of his enemy was presented to him. He siezed it with both hands, and exclaim- ed, li I am satisfied, I die contented," and soon expir- ed. Of Lieut, M'Call f the public will judge by the termination of the fight, and his modest account of it. Capt. Blakely, late of the Enterprise, to whom certainly some part of the credit is due for the com- plete discipline of the men, had a short time before left that vessel, to superintend the building and fitting out of a new sloop of war, which he was to command. Capt. Blythe, killed on board the Boxer, had dis- tinguished himself at the conquest of Cayenne, and received of the Prince Regent of England a hand- some present in money, to purchase a sword or some other memorial. His opponent, the invincible Bur- rows, had little or no experience in the business of a battle, and Lieut. M'Call, on whom the command of the Enterprise devolved, had never seen a fight. *IIe had just entered his twenty eighth year, t Lieut. M'Call waa a native of South Carolina lift NAVAL MONUMENT. 85 BATTLE OF LAKE ERIE. COPY OF A LETTER FROM COM. PERRY TO THE SECRETARY OF. THE NAVY. U.' S. Brig Niagara, off the Western Sister, Sir, Lake Erie, Sept. 10, 1813. It has pleased the Almighty to give to the arms of the United States a signal victory over their enemies on this lake. The British squadron, consisting of 2 ships, 2 brigs, 1 schooner, and one sloop, have this moment surrendered to the force under my command, after a sharp conflict. I have the honor to be, Sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Hon, William Jones O. H. PERRY.* Sec'y of the navy. LETTERS FROM COM. PERRY TO MAJ. GEN. HARRISON. U. S. Brig Niagara, off the Western Sister, Dear General, Lake Erie, Sept. 10, 1813. We have met the enemy ; and they are ours ! 2 ships, 2 brigs, 1 schooner, and 1 sloop. Yours with great respect and esteem, Gen. Harrison. O.H.PERRY. Dear Sir, September 11. 1813 We have a great number of prisoners, which I wish to land : will you be so good as to order a guard to receive them ; and inform me of the place ? Consid- erable numbers have been killed and wounded on both sides. From the best information, we have more prisoners than we have men on board our vessels. In great haste, yours very truly, Gen. Harrison. O. H. PERRY. * Com. Perry is a native of Newport R 1. and son of Com. Christopher R. Perry, who formely commanded the frigate General Green. 86 NAVAL MONUMENT. COPY OF A LETTER FROM COM. PERRY TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. U. S. Schooner Ariel, Ptit-in-Bay, Sir, September 13, 1S13. In my last I informed you that we had captured the enemy's fleet on this lake. I have now the honor to give you the most important particulars of the action. On the morning of the 10th instant, at sunrise they were discovered from Put-in-Bay, where I lay at an- chor with the squadron under my command. We got under way, the wind light at S. W. and stood for them. At 10 A. M. the wind hauled to S. E. and brought us to windward : formed the line and bore up. At 15 minutes before 12, the enemy commenced fir- ing ; at 5 minutes before 12, the action commenced on our part. Finding their fire very destructive, owing to their long guns, and its being mostly directed at the Lawrence, I made sail and directed the other ves- sels to follow for the purpose of closing with the ene- my. Every brace and bow-line being shot away, she became unmanageable, notwithstanding the great ex- ertions of the sailing master. In this situation she sustained the action upwards of 2 hours within cannis- ter distance, until every gun was rendered useless, and the greater part of her crew either killed or wounded. Finding she could no longer annoy the enemy, I left her in charge of Lieut. Yarnall, who I was convinced, from the bravery already displayed by him, would do what would comport with the honor of the flag. At half past two, the wind springing up, Capt. Elliott was enabled to bring his vessel, the JViagar a, gallantly in- to close action : I immediately went on board of her, when he anticipated my wish by volunteering to bring the schooners which had been kept astern by the light- ness of the wind, into close action. It was with un- sp. !e pain, that I saw, soon after I got on board the Niagara, the flag of the Lawrence come dovwi, although 1 was perfectly sensible that she had been defended to the last, and that to have continued to NAVAL MONUMENT. 87 make a show of resistance would have been a wanton sacrifice of the remains of her brave crew. But the enemy was not able to take possession of her, and circumstances soon permitted her flag again to be hoisted. At 45 minutes past 2, the signal was made for "close action." The Niagara being very little injured, I determined to pass through the enemy's line, bore up and passed ahead of their two ships and a brig, giving a raking fire to them from the starboard guns, and to a large schooner and sloop from the lar- board side at half pistol shot distance. The smaller Vessels at this time having got within grape and can-' nister distance, under the direction of Capt. Elliot, and keeping up a well directed fire, the two ships, a brig and a schooner surrendered, a schooner and sloop making a vain attempt to escape. Those officers and men who were immediately under my observation evinced the greatest gallantry, and I have no doubt that ail others conducted themselves as became American officers and seamen. Lieut. Yar- nall, first of the Laiorence, although several times wounded, refused to quit the deck. Midshipman For- rest (doing duty as lieutenant) and sailing-Master Tailor, were of great assistance to me. I have great pain in stating to you the death of Lt. Brooks of the marines, and Midshipman Laub, both of the Law- rence, and Midshipman John Clarke of the Scorpion : they were valuable and promising officers. Mr. Ham- bleton, purser, who- volunteered his services on deck, was severely wounded late in the action. Midship- men Claxon and Swartwout of the Lawrence, were severely wounded. On board of the Niagara, Lieut- enants Smith and Edwards, and Midshipman Web- ster (doing duty as a sailing master,) behaved in a ve- ry handsome manner. Capt. Breevoort of the army, who acted as a volunteer in the capacity of a marine officer, onboard that vessel, is an excellent and brave officer, and with his musketry did great execution. Lieut. Turner, commanding the Caledonia , brought that vessel into action in the most able manner, and 88 NAVAL MONUMENT. is an officer that in all situations may be relied on. The Ariel, Lieut. Packet, and Scorpion, Sailing- Master Champlin, were enabled to get early into ac- tion, and were of great service. Capt. Elliott speaks in the highest terms of Mr. Magrath, purser, who had been despatched in a boat on service previous to my getting onboard the Niagara ; and, being a seaman, since the action has rendered essential service in ta- king charge of one of the prizes. Of Capt. Elliott, already so well known to the government, it would be almost superfluous to speak. In this action he evin- ced his characteristic bravery and judgment, and, since the close of the action, has given me the most able and essential assistance. I have the honor to enclose you a return of the kil- led and wounded, together with a statement of the relative force of the squadrons. The cnptain and 1st lieutenant of the Queen Charlotte and the 1st lieuten- ant of the Detroit were killed : Capt. Barclay, senior oificer, and the commander of the Lady Prevost, se- verely wounded : the commander of the Hunter and Chippeway slightly wounded. Their loss in killed and wounded I have not yet been able to ascertain ; it must however have been very great. Very respectfully, I have the honor to be, Sir, your obedient servant, Hon. William Jones, O. II. PERRY. Sec'y of the navy. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COM. PERRV. U. S. Schooner Ariel, Put-in-Bay, Sir, September 13, 1813. I have caused the prisoners taken on the 10th inst. to be landed at Sandusky, and have requested Gen. Harrison to have them marched to Chilicothc, and there wait until your pleasure shall be known respec- ting them. The Lawrence has been entirely cut up : it is abso- lutely necessary she should go into ;i safe harbor. I have therefore directed Lieut. Yarnall to proceed to NAVAL MONUMENT. 89 Erie in her, with the wounded of the fleet, and dis- mantle and get her over the bar as soon as possible. The two ships in a heavy sea this day at anchor lost their masts, being much injured in the action. I shall haul them into the inner bay at this place, and moor them for the present. The Detroit is a remarkably fine ship, sails well, and is very strongly built. The Queen Charlotte is a much superior vessel to what has been represented. The Lady Prevost is a large, fine schooner. I also beg your instructions respecting the wounded. I am satisfied, Sir, that whatever steps I might take, governed by humanity, would meet your approbation. Under this impression, I have taken upon myself to promise Capt. Barclay, who is very dangerously wounded, that he shall be landed as near Lake Ontario as possible, and I had no doubt you would allow me to parole him. He is under the impression that nothing but leaving tins part of the country will save his life. There is also a number of Canadians among the prisoners, many of whom have families. I have the honor to be, Sir, very respectfully, your obed't serv't, Hon William Jones, O. H. PERRY. Sec'y of the navy. STATEMENT OF THE FORCE OF THE BRITISH SQUADRON. Ship Detroit,* - - 19 guns-1 on pivot, and 2 howitzers. Queen Charlotte, 17 do. 1 do. Sch. Lady Prevost, 13 do, 1 do. Brig Hunter, - 10 do. Sl'p Little Belt, 3 do. Sch. Chippeway, 1 do.and 2 swivels-Total, 63 guns. STATEMENT OF THE FORCE OF THE U. S. SQUADRON. Brig Lawrence, - 20 guns. Niagara - - 20 do. Caledonia, - 3 do. •The Detroit is a new ship, very strongly built, and mounts long 24s, 18s and 12a. 12 90 NAVAL MONUMENT. Sch. Ariel, -- 4 guns. (one burst early in the action.) Scorpion - 2 do. Soiners - 2 do. and 2 swivels. Sl'p Trippe, 1 do. Sch. Tigress, 1 do. Porcupine, 1 do. — Total, 54 guns. The exact number of the enemy's force has not been ascertained, but I have good reason to believe that it exceeded ours by nearly one hundred men. List of killed and wounded on board the United States squadron, under command of O. H. Perry Esq. in the action of 10th September, 1813. On board the Laivrence. Killed — John Brooks, lieutenant of marines ; * Henry Laub, midshipman ; Christian Mayhew, quarter master ; eleven seamen, and one sail maker, one carpenter, one private, and three marines. Wounded — John J. Yarnall, 1st lieutenant, slight- ly ; Dulaney Forrest, 2d do. do. ; William N. Tay- lor, sailing master, do. ; Samuel Hambleton, purser, severely ; Thomas Claxton, Augustus Swartwout, midshipmen, severely ; Jonas Stone, carpenter slight- ly ; William C. Keen, master at arms, do ; Francis Mason, John New en, quarter masters, severely ; Jo- seph Lewis, Ezekiel Fowler, quarter masters, slight- ly ; John E. Brown, quarter gunner, severely ; Will- iam Johnson, boatswain's mate, do ; James Helan, do. slightly ; George Cornell, carpenter's mate, do. and forty five seamen and marines. [On the morning of the action, the sick list of the Laivrence contained 31 unfit for duty.] On board the Niagara. Killed— Peter Morel, seamen, Isaac Hardy, ord. seamen. — 2 Wounded. — John J. Edwards, lieutenant; John C. Cummings, midshipman ; and twenty one seamen and marines. __ • A eon of the late Gov. Brooks of Medford, Mass. He was an accomplished gentleman and brave officer. NAVAL MONUMENT. 91 [On the morning of the action, the sick list of the Niagara contained 28 unfit for duty.] On board the Caledonia. Wounded — James Artus, Isaac Perkins, James Phillips, slightly — 3. On board the Somers. Wounded — Charles Or- deen, Godfrey Bowman — 2. On board the Ariel. Killed — John White, boat- swain's mate — 1. Wounded — William Sloss, ord. seaman, slightly; Robert Wilson, seaman, do ; John Lucas, landsman, do.— 3. On board the Trippe. Wounded — Isaac Green, soldier, 26th regiment, badly ; John Failes, do. 17th, slightly — 2. On board the Porcupine. None killed or wounded. On board the Scorpion. Killed — John Clark, midshipman ; John Sylhamamer, landsman — 2. On board the Tigress. None killed or wounded. [Two days previous to the action, 51 men unfit for service in the small vessels.] RECAPITULATION. Killed. Wounded. Total. Lawrence, 22 61 83 Niagara, 2 25 21 Caledonia, 3 3 Somers, 2 2 Ariel, 1 3 4> Trippe, 2 2 Scorpion, 2 2 21 96 123 S. HAMBLETON, Purser. O. H. PERRY, Captain. and senior officer. Of the 96 wounded in the battle of Lake Erie, on- ly four died : most of the wounded were fit for duty in a short time. Just before the battle, Com. Perry hoisted the union jack, having for a motto the dying words of Lawrence, 92 NAVAL MONUMENT. "dont give up the ship." It was received with repea- ted huzzas by the officers and crews. The victory of Com. Perry was the result of skill, courage, and enterprise, against superior force. Both the quality and amount of the force he had to contend with ought to have given a triumph to the other side ; and at the time of the surrender, the odds were increas- ed against him, since his own ship after having suffered more than perhaps a vessel of the same size and force ever did before, had been compelled to strike. The im- mediate termination of the battle appears to have been decided by the bold Nelsonian measure, of breaking through the British line and coming to close action. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM A NAVAL OFFICER AT ERIE. October 7, 1813. "Had I been able, I -should before now have sent you some particulars of the action of the memora- ble 10th of September. As we have not many let- ter writers in our squadron, the public will have to put up with the Commodore's 'round, unvarnished tale ;' which however is very well told. All the fault I find with it is, that he himself is too much in the back ground. "In no action fought this war has the conduct of the commanding officer been so conspicious or so evi- idently decisive of the fate of the battle, as in this. When he discovered that nothing further could be done in the Lawrence, he wisely removed to the Ni- agara, and by one of the boldest and most judicious manoeuvres ever practised, decided the contest at once. Had the Niagara shared the fate of the Lawrence, it was his intention to have removed to the next best vessel, and so on as long as one of his squadron con- tinued to float. The enemy saw him put off, and ac- knowledge that they fired a broadside at him. With his usual gallantry he went off standing up in the stern of the boat ; but the crew insisted on his sitting down. The enemy speak with admiration of the manner in which the Lawrence bore down- upon them. She NAVAL MONUMENT. 93 continued her course so long and so obstinately, that they thought we were going to board them. "They had a great advantage in having long guns. Many of our men were killed on the birth deck and in the steerage, after they were taken below to be dressed — Midshipman Laub was of this number. One shot went through the light room, and knocked the snuff of the candle into the magazine — The gunner happened to see it immediately, and extinguished it with his hand : 2 shot passed through the magazine ; 2 through the cabin ; 3 or 4 came into the ward room — but I be- lieve only one went quite through, and that passed a few inches over the surgeon's head as he sat in the cockpit. Our short guns lodged their shot in the bul- warks of the Detroit ; where a number of them now remain. Her bulwarks however were vastly superior to ours, being of oak and very thick. Many of their grape shot came through ours. They acknowledge that they threw combustible matter on board of us, which set our sails and rigging on fire in several pla- ces. I am clearly of opinion, that they were better manned than we were. They had a much greater number — they had veteran troops — their men were all well. We had as motlev a crew as ever went into ac- tion ; and our vessels looked like hospital ships. "During the whole of the action the most complete order prevailed on board the Laivrence. There was no noise, no bustle, no confusion. As fast as the men were wounded they were taken below and replaced by others. The dead remained where they fell until the action was over. Capt. Perry exhibited that cocl, collected, dignified bravery, which those acquainted with him would have expected. His countenance all the time was just as composed as if he had been en- gaged in ordinary duty. As soon as the action was over he gave all his attention to the securing of the prisoners and to the wounded on both sides. Capt. Birclay declared to one of our officers, several days after the action, that Capt. Perry had done himself im- mortal honor by his humanity and attention to the 94 NAVAL MONUMENT. wounded prisoners. The action was fought on Fri- dny — — we got into harbor next day. On Sunday all the officers on both sides, who fell, were buried on South Bass Island, at Put-in-Bay, with the honors of war. "I am sorry to inform you that Midshipman Claxton died of his wounds this morning. "There were two Indian chiefs on board the De- troit. The 2d lieutenant informed me, that as soon as the action became general they ran below." The suite of Com. Perry, on his arrival at Newport, R. I. consisted of his brother, and the four sailors that rowed him from the Lawrence to the Niagara. It is said that in passing from ' the Lawrence to the Niagara, in an open boat, the gallant commodore stood up until he received two broadsides, directed at his little barque from the enemy, and was then pul- led down by the skirts of his coat, by the faithful tars, that accompanied him. Com. Barclay certainly did himself honor by a brave and obstinate resistance. He had seen much service, having been dangerously wounded in the bat- tle of Trafalgar, and afterwards losing an arm in anoth- er engagement with the French. In this battle, he was twice carried below, on account of his wounds, and unfortunately lost his remaining hand. At a public dinner and ball, given to Com. Bar- clay, at Terrebonne, (Canada) this gallant, but unfor- tunate officer, gave the following toast : — "Com. Per- ry, the gallant and generous enemy." Gen. Harrison sent reinforcements to assist Com. Perry in the action, which terminated in the capture of the whole British fleet. In return, Com. Perry volunteered with Gen. Harrison, and assisted him in the capture of the British army. In the following letter justice is done to the zeal of Gen. Harrison and his gallant soldiers. Sir, U. S. Schooner Ariel, Sept. 15, 1813. The very great assistance, in the action of the 10th NAVAL MONUMENT. 95 inst. derived from those men you were pleased to send on board the squadron, renders it a duty to return you my sincere thanks for so timely a reinforcement. In fact, Sir, I may say, without those men the victory could not have been achieved ; and equally to assure you, that those officers and men behaved as became good soldiers and seamen. Those who were under my immediate observation, evinced great ardour and bravery. . Capt. Prevort, of the 2d company of Infan- try, serving on board the Niagara, I beg leave to rec- ommend particularly to your notice : he is a brave and gallant officer, and as far as I am capable of judging, an excellent one. I am convinced you will present the merit of this officer to the view of the Hon. Secretary of War, as I shall to the Hon. Secretary of the Navy. Very respectfully, I am, sir, your obedient servant, Maj. Gen. W. H. Harrison, O. H. PERRY. Commander in chief of the N. W. army. An officer on board the Lawrence, and a volunteer on board the same vessel, having circulated a report, that the Niagara, commanded by Capt. Jesse D. Elli- ott, had not taken an active part in the battle, the fol- lowing notes of Captains Perry and Elliott are inser- ted, which prove the report to have been totally false. United States Brig Niagara, Sir, Put-in-Bay, September 18, 1813. I am informed a report has been circulated by some malicious person, prejudicial to my vessel, when en- gaged with the enemy's fleet. I will thank you, if you will, with candour, state tome the conduct of myself, officers and crew. Respectfully your obedient servant, Capt. O. H. Perry. JESSE D. ELLIOTT. United States Schooner Ariel, My dear sir, Put-in-Bay, September 18, 1813. I received your note last evening after I had turned in, or I should have answered it immediately. I am 96 NAVAL MONUMENT. indignant that any report should be circulated, preju- dicial to your character, as respects the action of the 10th instant. It affords me great pleasure that I have it in my power to assure you, that the conduct of your- self, officers, and crew was such as to meet my warm- est approbation. And I consider the circumstance of your volunteering and bringing the small vessels into close action, as contributing largely to our victory. I shall ever believe it a premeditated plan to destroy our commanding vessel. I have no doubt had not the Queen Charlotte run from the Niagara, from the su- perior order I observed her in, you would have taken her in twenty minutes. With sentiments of esteem I am, dear Sir, your friend and obedient servant Capt. J. D. Elliott. O. H. PERRY. The following is the opinion of the court of inquiry, held on board the United States sloop of war Ontario, in the harbor of New York, in pursuance of the follow- orders. Sir Navy Department, April 20, 1815, It has been stated to this department, that by the proceedings of a court of inquiry, in Great Britain, ordered to investigate the causes of the loss of the British fleet on Lake Erie, on the 10th of September 1813, the conduct of Capt. Jesse D. Elliott, of the United States navy, who commanded the brig Niag- ara on that day, is misrepresented ; justice to the re- putation of Capt Elliott, and to the navy of the Uni- ted States, requires that a true statement of the facts in relation to his conduct on that occasion, be exibited to the world. The court therefore, of which you are president, will immediately proceed to inquire into the same, to ascertain the part he sustained in the action of that day, and report its opinion thereon to this de- partment. I am very respectively, your obedient servant, Com. A. Murray, B. W. CROWNINGSIIIELD. New York, NAVAL MONUMENT. 97 The court of inquiry, convened at the request of Capt. Jesse D. Elliott, having deliberately examined all the evidences produced before them, for the pur- pose of investigating his conduct in the glorious bat- tle on Lake Erie, on the 10th of September 1813, in which he bore so conspicuous a part, sincerely regret, that there should have been any diversity of opinion respecting the events of that day ; and imperious duty compels the court to promulgate testimony that ap- pears materially to vary in some of its important points. The court however feel convinced, that the attempts to wrest from Capt. Elliott the laurels he gained in that splendid victory, as second in command under that gallant and highly meritorious officer, Capt. Per- ry ought in no wise to lesson him in the opinion of his fellow citizens, as a brave and skilful officer, and that the charge made in the proceedings of the British court martial, by which Capt. Barclay was tried, of his at- tempting to withdraw from the battle, is malicious, and unfounded in fact. On the contrary, it has been pro- ved to the satisfaction of this court, that the enemy's ship, Queen Charlotte, bore -off from the fire of the Niagara, commanded by Capt. Elliott. ALEXANDER MURRAY, Pres. HENRY WHEATON Judge Adv. Approved, B. W. Crowningshield. LOSS OF THE ESSEX. COPY OF A LETTER FROM CAPT. PORTER, TO THE SEC- RETARY OF THE NAVY. Sir, Essex Junior, at sea, July 3, 1814. I have done myself the honor to address you re- peatedly, since I left the Delaware ; but have scarce- ly a hope that one of my letters has reached you ; therefore consider it necessary to give a brief history of my proceeding since that period. - I sailed from the Delaware on the 27th of October 1812, and repaired, with all dilligence, (agreeably to instruction from Com. Bainbridge) to Port Praya, 13 98 NAVAL MONUMENT. Fernando de Noronho, and Cape Frio ; and arrived at each place on the day appointed to meet him. On my passage from Port Praya to Fernando de Noronho, I captured H. B. M. packet Norton ; and after taking out about 11,000/. sterling in specie, sent her under command of Lieut. Finch, for America. I cruised off Rio de Janeiro, and about Cape Frio, until the 12th January IS] 3, hearing frequently of the Com- modore, by vessels from Bahia. I here captured but one schooner, with hides and tallow. I sent her into Rio. The Montague, the admiral's ship being in pursuit of me, my provisions now getting short, and finding it necessary to look out for a supply, to enable, me to meet the commodore by the 1st of April off St. Helena, I proceed to the Island of St. Catharines, (the last place of rendezvous on the coast of Brazil) as the most likely to supply my wants, and at the same time afford me that secrecy necessary to enable me to al- lude the British ships of war on the coast, and expec- ted there. I here could procure only wood, water and rum, and a few bags of flour ; and hearing of the commodore's action with the Java, the capture of the Hornet by the Montague, and a considerable aug- mentation of the British force on the coast, and of several being in pursuit of me, I found it necessary to get to sea as soon as possible. I now, agreeably to the commodore's plan, stretched to the southward, scouring the coast as far as Rio de la Plata. I heard that Buenos Ayres was in a state of starvation, and could not supply our wants ; and that the govern- ment of Montevideo was very inimical to us. The commodore's instructions now left it discretionary with me what course to pursue, and I determined on following that which had not only met his approbation, but the approbation of the then secretary of the navy. I accordingly shaped my course for the Pacific; and after suffering greatly from short allowance of provi- sion and heavy gales off Cape Horn (for which my ship and men were illy provided) I arrived at Val- paraiso on the 14th March 1813. I here took in as NAVAL MONUMENT. 99 much jerked beef, and other provisions, as my ship would conveniently stow, and run down the coast of Chili and Peru ; in this track, I fell in with a Paru- vian corsair, which had on board 24 Americans as prisoners, the crews of two whale ships, which she had taken on the coast of Chili. The captain informed me, that ag the allies of Great Britain, they would capture all they should meet with, in expectation of a war between Spain and the United States. I conse- quently threw all his guns and ammunition into the sea, liberated the Americans, wrote a respectful letter to the Vice Roy, explaining the cause of my proceedings, which I delivered to her captain. I then proceeded from Lima and re-captured one of the vessels as she was en- tering the port. From thence I proceeded for the Gal- lapagos islands, where I cruised from the 17th April, until the 3d of October, 1813 ; during which time I touched only once on the coast of America, which was for the purpose of procuring a supply of fresh water, as none is to be found among those islands ; which are perhaps the most barren and desolate of any known. While among this group I captured the following British ships, employed chiefly in the spermaceti whale fishery — viz. LETTERS OF MARQUE. Tons. Men. Guns. Pierced for Montezuma, 270 21 2 Policy, 175 26 10 18 Georgiana, 280 25 6 18 Greenwich, 338 25 10 20 Atlantic, 353 24, 8 20 Rose, 220 21 8 20 Hector, 270 25 11 20 Catharine, 270 29 8 18 Seringapatam, 357 31 14 26 Charlton, 274 21 10 18 New Zealander, 259 23 8 13 Sir A. Hammond, 301 31 12 18 3369 302 107 100 NAVAL MONUMENT. As some of those ships were captured by boats, and others by prizes, my officers and men had several op- portunities of shewing their gallantry. The Rose and Charlton were given up to the prison- ers ; the Hector, Catharine, and Montezuma, I sent to Valparaiso, where they were laid up ; the Policy, Georgiana , and Neio-Zealander I sent for America ; the Greenwich I kept as a store ship, to contain the stores of my other prizes, necessary for us ; and the Atlantic, now called the Essex- Junior, I equipped with 20 guns, and gave command of her to Lieut. Downes. Lieut. Downes had convoyed prizes to Valparaiso, and on his return brought me letters informing me, that a squadron under the command of Com. James Hilly ar, consisting of the frigate Phcebe, of 36 guns, the Racoon and Cherub sloop of war, and a store ship of 20 guns, had sailed on the (3th of July for this sea. The Racoon and Cherub had been seeking me for some time on the coast of Brazil, and on their return from their cruise, joined the squadron sent in search of me to the Pacific. My ship, as it may be supposed, after being near a year at sea, required some repairs to put her in a state to meet them ; which I determined to do, and to bring them to action, if I could meet them on nearly equal terms. I proceeded now, in company with the remainder of my prizes, to the island of Nooahecvah, or Madison Island, lying in the Washington groupe, discovered by Capt. Ingraham of Boston : here I caulked and completely overhauled my ship, made for her a new set of water casks, her old ones being entirely decayed, and took on board from my prizes provisions and stores for upwards of four months, and sailed for the coast of Chili on the 12th December, 1813. Previous to sailing, I secur- ed the Serengapatam, Greenwich and Sir Jlndrew Hammond under the guns of a battery, which I erec- ted for their protection. After taking possession of this line island for the United States, and establishing the most friendly intercourse with tli£ natives, I left NAVAL MONUMENT. 101 them under the charge of Lieut. Gamble of the ma- rines, with twenty-one men, with orders to repair to Valparaiso, after a certain period. I arrived on the coast of Chili on the 12th January, 1814 ; looked into Conception and Valparaiso, found at both places only three English vessels, and learned that the squadron, which sailed from Rio de Janeiro for that sea, had not'been heard of since their departure ; and were supposed to be lost in endeavoring to double Cape-Horn. I had completely broken up the British navigation in the Pacific ; the vessels which had not been captur- ed by me, were laid up, and dare not venture out. I had afforded the most ample protection to our own vessels, which were on my arrival, very numerous and unprotected. The valuable whale fishery there is en- tirely destroyed, and the actual injury we have done them may be estimated at two and a half millions of dollars independent of the expense of vessels in search of me. They have furnished me amply with sales, cor- dage, cables, anchors, provisions, medicines and stores of every discription ; and the slops on board them have furnished clothing for the seamen. We have in fact lived on the enemy since I have. been in that sea, every prize having proved a well found store-ship for me. I had not yet been under, the necessity of draw- ing bills on the department for any object, and had been enabled tomake considerable advances to my Offi- cers and crew on account of pay. For the unexampled time we had kept the sea, my crew had been remarkably healthy ; I had but one case of the scurvy ; and had lost only the following men by death, viz', John S. Cowan, lieutenant ; Robert Miller, surgeon ; Levi Holmes, Edward Sweeney, ord. seamen ; Samuel Groce, seaman ; James Spafford, gunner's mate ; Benjamin Geers, John Rodgers, quarter-gunners ; Andrew Mahan, cor- poral of marines; Lewis Price, private marine. I had done all the injury that could be done the British commerce in the Pacific, and still hoped to 102 NAVAL MONUMENT. signalize my cruise by something more splended before leaving that sea. I thought it not improbable that Com. Hillyar might have kept his arrival secret, and believ- ing that he would seek me at Valparaiso, as the most likely place to find me, I therefore determined to cruise about that place, and should I fail of meeting him, hoped to be compensated by the capture of some mer- chant ships, said to be expected from England. The Phoebe, agreeably to my expectations, came to seek me at Valparaiso, where I was anchored with the Essex, and my armed prize the Essex-Junior, under the command of Lieut. Downes, on the look out of the harbor ; but contrary to the course I thought he would pursue, Com. Hillyar brought with him the Cherub sloop of war, mounting twenty-eight guns, eighteen 32 pound carronades, eight 24s, and two long 9s on the quarter deck and forecastle, and a.complement of ISO men. The force of the Phoebe is as follows : — Thirty long 18 pounders, sixteen 32 pound carronades, one howitzer, and six three pounders in the tops, in all fifty-three guns, and a complement of 320 men; mak- ing a force of eighty-one guns and 500 men ; in ad- dition to which, they took on board the crew of an English letter of marque lying in port. Both ships had picked crews, and were sent into the pacific in company with the Racoon of 22 guns, and a store ship of twenty guns, for the express purpose of seeking the Essex, and were prepared with flags, bearing the motto, "God and country ; British sailor's best rights ; traitors offend both." This was intended as a reply to my motto, "free trade and sailor's rights," under the erroneous impression that my crew were chiefly En- glishmen, or to counteract its effect on their own crews. The force of the Essex was 46 guns, forty 32 pound carronades, and six long 12s, and her crew, which had been much reduced by prizes amounted only to 255 men. The Essex Junior, which was intended chief- ly as a store ship, mounted 20 guns, ten IS pound carronades, and ten short 7s, with only 60 men on board. In reply to their motto, I wrote at my miz- NAVAL MONUMENT. 103 en, " God, our country, and liberty : tyrants offend them." On getting their provisions on board, they went off the port for the purpose of blockading me, where they cruised for near six weeks ; during which time I en- deavored to provoke a challenge, and frequently, but ineffectually, to bring the Plwebe alone to action, first with both my ships, and afterwards with my single ship with both crews on board. I was several times under way, and ascertained that I had greatly the ad- vantage in point of sailing, and once succeeded in closing within gun-shot of the Phoebe, and commen- ced a fire on her, when she ran down for the Cherub, which was two miles and a half to leeward. This excited some surprize and expressions of indignation, as previous to my. getting under way, she hove to off the port, hoisted her motto flag and fired a gun to windward. Com. Hillyar seemed determined to avoid a contest with me on nearly equal terms, and from his extreme prudence in keeping both his ships ever after constantly within hail of each other, there were no hopes of any advantages to my country from a longer stay in port. I therefore determined to put to sea the first opportunity which should offer ; and I was the more strongly induced to do so, as I had received cer- tain intelligence that the Tagus, rated 38, and two other frigates, had sailed for that sea in pursuit of me ; and I had reason to expect the arrival of the Racoon from the N. W. coast of America, where she had been sent for the purpose of destroying our fur estab- lishment on the Columbia. A rendezvous was ap- pointed for the Essex-Junior and every arrangement made for sailing, and I intended to let them chase me off, to give the Essex-Junior an opportunity of esca- ping. On the 28th March, the day after this deter- mination was formed, the wind came on to blow fresh from the southward, when I parted my larboard cable, and dragged my starboard anchor directly out to sea. Not a . moment was to be lost in getting sail on the ship. The enemy were close in with the point forming 104 NAVAL MONUMENT. the west side of the bay ; but on opening them, I saw a prospect of passing to windward, when I took in my top-gallant sails, which were set over single-reefed top-sails, and braced up for this purpose ; but on rounding the point, a heavy squall struck the ship and carried away her main top mast, precipitating the men who were aloft into the sea, who were drowned. Both ships now gave chase to me, and I endeavoured in my disabled state to regain the port ; but finding I could not recover the common anchorage, I ran close into a small bay about three quarters of a mile to leeward of the battery on the east side of the harbor, and let go my anchor within pistol shot of the shore, where I in- tended to repair my damages as soon as possible. The enemy continued to approach, and shewed an evident intention of attacking, regardless of the neu- trality of the place where I was anchored ; and the caution observed in their approach to the attack of the crippled Essex, was truly rediculous, as was their dis- play of their motto flags, and the number of jacks at their mast heads. I, with as much expedition as cir- cumstances would admit of, got my ship ready for ac- tion, and endeavoured to get a spring on my cable, but had not succeeded when the enemy, at 54 minutes after 3, P. M. made his attack, the Phoebe placing herself under my stern, and the Cherub on my star- board bow ; but the Cherub soon finding her situa- tion a hot one, bore up and ran under my stern also, where both ships kept up a hot raking fire. Iliad got three long 12 pounders out of the stern ports, which were worked with so much bravery and skill, that in half an hour we so disabled both as to compel them to haul o(f to repair damages. In the course of this firing, I had by the great exertions of Mr. Edward Barnewetl, the acting sailing master, assisted by Mr. Linscott, the boatswain, succeeded in getting springs on our cable three different times ; but the fire of the enemy was so excessive, that before we could get our broadside to bear, they wore shot away, and thus ren- dered useless to us. My ship had received many in- NAVAL MONUMENT. 105 juries, and several had been killed and wounded ; but my brave officers and men, notwithstanding the unfa- vorable circumstances under which we were brought to action, and the powerful force opposed to us, were no ways discouraged ; and all appeared determined to defend their ship to the last extremity, and to die in preference to a shameful surrender. Our gaff, with the ensign, and the motto flag at the mizen, had been shot away, but "free trade and sailors' rights" contin- ued to fly at the fore. Our ensign was replaced by another ; and to guard against a similar event, an en- sign was made fast in the mizen rigging, and several jacks were hoisted in different parts of the ship. The enemy soon repaired his damages for a fresh attack : he now placed himself with both his ships, on my starboard quarter, out of the reach of my carronades, and where my stern guns could not be brought to bear : he there kept up a most galling fire, which it was out of my power to return, when I saw no pros- pect of injuring him without getting under way and becoming the assailant. My top-sail sheets and hal- iards were all shot away, as well as the jib and fore-top mast stay-sail haliards. The only rope not cut away was the flying-jib haliards ; and that being the only sail I could set, I caused it to be hoisted, my cable to be cut, and ran down on both ships, with an inten- tion of laying the Phoebe on board. The firing on both sides was now tremendous ; I had let fall my fore-top-sail and fore-sail, but the want of tack and sheets rendered them almost useless to us — yet we were enabled, for a short time, to close with the ene- my ; and although our decks were now strewed with dead, and our cock-pit filled with wounded — although our ship had been several times on fire, and was ren- dered a perfect wreck, we were still encouraged to hope to save her, from the circumstance of the Cher- ub, from her crippled state, being compelled to haul off. She did not return to close action again, although she apparently had it in her power to do so, but kept up a distant firing with her long guns. The Phcebe, 14 106 NAVAL MONUMENT. from our disabled state, was enabled, however, by edging off, to choose the distance which best suited her long guns, and kept up a tremendous fire on us, which mowed down my brave companions by the dozen. Many of my guns had been rendered useless by the enemy's shot, and many of them had their whole crews destroyed. We manned them again from those which were disabled, and one gun in particular was three times manned — fifteen men were slain at it, in the course of the action ! But, strange as it may ap- pear, the captain of it escaped with only a slight wound. Finding that the enemy had it in his power to choose his distance, I now gave up all hopes of closing with him, and, as the wind, for the moment, seemed to favor the design, I determined to endeavour to run her on shore, land my men, and destroy her. Every thing seemed to favor my wishes. We had aproached the shore within musket shot, and I had no doubt of succeeding, when, in an in- stant, the wind shifted from the land (as is very com- mon in this port in the latter part of the day) and pay- ed our head down on the Phoebe, where we were again exposed to a dreadful raking fire. My ship was now totally unmanageable ; yet as her bend was toward the enemy, and he to leeward of me, I still hoped to be able to board him. .At this moment, Lieut. Com- mandant Downes came on board to receive my orders, under the impression that I should soon be a prisoner. He could be of no use to me in the then wretched state of the Essex — and finding (from the enemy's putting his helm up) that my attempt at boarding would not succeed, I directed him, after he had been about ten minutes on board, to return to his own ship, to be prepared for defending and destroying her in case of an attack. He took with him several of my wounded, leaving three of his boat's crew on board to make room for them. The Cherub now had an op- portunity of distinguishing herself, by keeping up a hot fire on him during his return. The slaughter on D O board my ship had now become horrible, the enemy NAVAL MONUMENT. 107 continuing to rake us and we unable to bring a gun to bear. I therefore directed, a hawser to be bent to the sheet anchor, and the anchor to be cut from the bows to bring her head round : this succeeded. We again got our broadside to bear, and as the enemy was much crippled and unable to hold his own, I have no doubt he would soon have drifted out of gun shot be- fore he discovered we had anchored, had not the haw- ser unfortunately parted. My ship had taken fire several times during the action, but alarmingly so foreward and aft at this moment — flames were burs- ting up each hatchway, and no hopes were entertained of saving her. Our distance from the shore did not exceed three quarters of a mile, and I hoped many of my brave crew would be able to save themselves, should the ship blow up, as I was informed the fire was near the magazine, and the explosion of a large quantity of powder below served to increase the horrors of our situation — our boats were destroyed by the enemy's shot ; I therefore directed those who could swim to jump overboard, and endeavour to gain the shore — some reached it — some were taken by the enemy, and some perished in the attempt ; but most preferred sharing with me the fate of the ship. We, who remained, now turned our attention wholly to extinguishing the flames : and when we had succeeded, went again to our guns where the firing was kept up for some minutes, but the crew had by this time be- come so weakened, that they all declared to me the impossibility of making further resistance, and entrea- ted me to surrender my ship to save the wounded, as all further attempt at opposition must prove ineffectu- al, almost every gun being disabled by the destruction of their crews. I now sent for the officers of division to consult them ; but what was my surprise to find only acting Lieutenant Stephen Decatur M' Knight remaining, (who confirmed the report respecting the condition of the guns on the gun-deck — those on the spar-deck were not in a better state.) Lieut. Wilmer, after fighting most gallantry throughout the action, had 108 NAVAL MONUMENT. been knocked overboard by a splinter while getting the sheet anchor from the bows, and was drowned. Acting Lieutenant John G. Cowell had lost a leg; Edward Barnewell, acting sailing master, had been carried below, after receiving two severe wounds, one in the breast and one in the face ; and acting Lieuten- ant William H. Odenheimer had been knocked over board from the quarter an instant before, and did not regain the ship until after the surrender. I was in- formed that the cockpit, the steerage, the ward room, and the birth deck could contain no more wounded ; that, the wounded were killed while the surgeons were dressing them ; and that unless something was speedily done to prevent it, the ship would soon sink from the number of shot holes in her bottom. On sending for the carpenter, he informed me that all his crew had been killed or wounded, and that lie had once been over the side to stop the leaks, when his slings had been shot away, and it was with difficulty he was saved from drowning. The enemy, from the smootheness of the water, and the impossibility of our reaching him with our carronades, and the little appre- hension that was excited by our fire, which had now become much slackened, was enabled to take aim at us as at a target: his shot never missed our hull, and my ship was cut up in a manner, which was, perhaps, never before witnessed — in fine, I saw no hopes of sa- ving her, and at 20 minutes after 6 P. M. gave the painful order to strike the colours. Seventy-five men, including officers, were all that remained of my whole crew, after the action, capable of doing duty, and many of them severely wounded, some of whom have since died. The enemy still continued his fire, and my brave, though unfortunate companions, were still falling about me. I directed an opposite gun to be fired, to show them we intended no farther resistance ; but they did not desist ; four men were killed at my side and others at different parts of the ship. I now believe he intended to show us no quarter, and that it would be as well to die with my flag flying as NAVAL MONUMENT. 100 struck, and was on the point of again hoisting it, when about 10 minutes after hauling the colours down he ceased firing. I cannot speak in sufficiently high terms of the con- duct of those engaged for such an unparalled length of time (under such circumstances) with me in the ar- duous and unequal contest. Let it suffice to say, that more bravery, skill, patriotism and zeal were never dis- played on any occasion. Every one seemed determin- ed to die in defence of their much loved country's cause, and nothing but views of humanity could ever have reconciled them to the surrender of the ship ; they remembered their wounded and helpless ship- mates below. To acting Lieutenants M' Knight and Odenheimer, I feel much indebted for their great ex- ertions and bravery throughout the action, in fighting and encouraging the men at their divisions, for the dexterous management of the long guns, and for their promptness in remanning their guns as their crews were slaughtered. The conduct of that brave and heroic officer, acting Lieutenant John G. Cowell, who lost his leg in the latter part of the action, excited the ad- miration of every man in the ship, and after being wounded, would not consent to be taken below, un- til loss of blood had rendered him insensible. Mr. Barnewell, acting sailing-master, whose activity and courage were equally conspicuous, returned on deck after receiving his first wound, and remained after re- ceiving his second, until fainting with the loss of blood. Mr. Samuel B. Johnston, who had joined me the day before, and acted as marine officer, conduct- ed himself with great bravery, and exerted himself in assisting at the long guns ; the musketry after the first half hour being useless from our long distance. Mr. M. W. Bostwick, whom I had appointed acting purser of the Essex -Junior, and who was on board my ship, did the duties of aid in a manner which re- flects on him the highest honor : and Midshipmen Isaacs, Farrugut, and Ogden, as well as acting Mid- shipmen James Terry, James R. Lyman and Samuel 110 NAVAL MONUMENT. Duzcnbury, and Master's Mate William Pierce, ex- erted themselves in the performance of their respec- tive duties, and gave an earnest of their value to the service ; the three first are too young to recommend for promotion ; the latter I beg leave to recommend for confirmation, as well as the acting lieutenants and Messrs. Barnewell, Johnston and Bostwick. We have been unfortunate, but not disgraced — the defence of the Essex has not been less honorable to her officers and her crew, than the capture of an equal force ; and I now consider my situation less unpleas- ant, than that of Com. Hillyar, who, in violation of every principal of honor and generosity, and regard- less of the rights of nations, attacked the Essex in her crippled state, within pistol shot of a neutral shore, when for six weeks I had daily offered him fair and honorable combat,on terms greatly to his advantage. The blood of the slain must rest on his head ; and he has yet to reconcile his conduct to heaven, to his con- science, and to the world. The annexed extracts of a letter from Com. Hillyar, which was written previous to his returning me my sword, will shew his opinion of our conduct. My loss has been dreadfully severe, 58 killed, or have since died of their wounds, and among them Lieut. Cowell ; 39 were severely wounded, 21 slight- ly, and 31 are missing ; making in all 154- killed, wounded, and missing, alist of whose names is annexed. The professional knowledge of Dr. Richard Hoff- man, acting surgeon, and Dr. Alexander Montgome- ry, acting as surgeon's mate, added to their assiduity and the benevolent attentions and assistance of Mr. D. P. Adams, the chaplain, saved the lives of many of the wounded ; those gentlemen have been indefa- tigable iii their attentions to them ; the two first I beg leave to recommend for confirmation, and the lat- ter to the notice of the department. I must in justification of myself observe, that with our six 12 pounders only, we fought this action— our caronades being almost useless. NAVAL MONUMENT. Ill The lost in killed and wounded has been great with the enemy ; among the former is the first lieutenant of the Phoebe, and of the latter Capt Tucker of the Cherub, whose wounds are severe. Both the Essex and the Phwbe were in a sinking state, and it was with difficulty they could be kept afloat until they anchored in Valparaiso next morning. The battered state of the Essex will, I believe, prevent her ever reaching England, and I also think it will be out of their power to repair the damages of the Phwbe, so as to enable her to double Cape Horn. All the masts, and yards of the Phoebe and Cherub are badly crip- pled, and their hulls much cut up ; the former had eighteen 12 pound shot through her, below her water line, some three feet under water. Nothing but the smoothness of the water saved both the Phoebe and Es- sex. I hope, Sir, that our conduct may prove satisfacto- ry to our country, and that it will testify it by obtain- ing our speedy exchange, that we may again have it in our power to prove our zeal. Com. Hillyar, I am informed, has thought proper to state to his government that the action lasted only 45 minutes ; should he have done so, the motive may be easily discovered — but the thousand of disinterested witnesses who covered the surrounding hills, can tes- tify that we fought his ships near two hours and a half; upwards of fifty broadsides were fired by the enemy agreeably to their own accounts, and upwards of sev- enty-five by ours ; except the few minutes they were repairing damages, the firing was incessant. Soon after my capture I entered into an agreement with Com. Hillyar to disarm my prize, the Essex-Ju- nior, and proceed with the survivors of my officers and crew in her to the United States, taking with me all her officers and crew. He consented to grant her a passport to secure her from recapture. The ship was small, and we knew we had much to suffer, yet we hoped soon to reach our country in safety, that we might again have it in our power to serve it. This 112 NAVAL MONUMENT. f. arrangement was attended with no additional expense, as she was abundantly supplied with provisions and stores for the voyage. In justice to Com. Hillyar, I must observe, that, although I can never be reconciled to the manner of his attack on the Essex, or to his conduct before the action, he has, since our capture, shown the greatest humanity to my wounded, whom he permitted me to land, on condition that the United States should bear their expenses, and has endeavored as much as lay in his power to alleviate the distresses of war by the most generous and delicate deportment towards my- self, my officers and crew ; he gave orders that the property of every person should be respected — his or- ders, however, were not so strictly attended to as might have been expected ; besides being deprived of books, charts, &,c. <$lc. both myself and officers lost many articles of our clothing, some to a considerable amount. I should not have considered this last cir- cumstance of sufficient importance to notice, did it not mark a striking difference between the navy of Great Britian and that of the United States, highly creditable to the latter. By the arrival of the Tagus, a few days after my capture, I was informed that besides the ships which had arrived in the Pacific in pursuit of me, and those still expected, others were sent to cruise for me in the China seas, off New Zealand, Timour, and New Holland, and that another frigate was sent to the riv- er La Plata. To possess the Essex, it has cost the British gov- ernment near six millions of dollars ; and yet, Sir, her capture was owing entirely to accident ; and if we consider the expedition with which naval contests are now decided, the action is a dishonor to them. Had they brought their ships boldly to action with a force so very superior, and having the choice of position, they should cither have captured or destroyed us in one fourth of the time they were about it. During the action, our Consul General, Mr. Poin- NAVAL MONUMENT. 113 sett, called on the governor of Valparaiso, and reques- ted that the batteries might protect the Essex. The request was refused, but he promised that if she should succeed in fighting her way to the common an- chorage, he would send an officer to the British com- mander and request him to cease firing, but declined using for.ce under any circumstances, and there is no doubt a perfect understanding existed between them. This conduct added to the assistance given to the British, and their friendly reception after the action, and the strong bias of the faction which governs Chili in favor of the English, as well as their hostility to the Americans, induced Mr. Poinsett to leave that country. Under such circumstances, I did not con- ceive that it would be proper for me to claim the res- toration of my ship, confident that the claim would be made by my government to more effect. Finding some difficulty in the sale of my prizes, I had taken the Hector and Catharine to sea, and burnt them with their cargoes. I exchanged Lieut. M, Knight, Mr. Lyman, and eleven seaman, for part of the crew of the Sir Andrew Hammond, and sailed from Valparaiso on the 27th April, where the enemy were still patching up their ships to put them in a state for proceeding to Rio de Janeiro, previous to going to England. Annexed is a list of the remains of my crew to be exchanged, as also a copy of the correspondance be- tween Com. Hillyar and myself on that subject. I also send you a list of the prisoners I have taken dur- ing my cruise, amounting to 343. I have the honor to be, &c. Hon. Secr'y of the navy D. PORTER, of the United States, Washington. P. S. To give you a correct idea of the state of the Essex at the time of surrender, I send you the boatswain's and carpenters report, of damages ; I also send you a report of the divisions. A return of tho killed, wounded and missing on board 15 114 NAVAL MONUMENT. of the late United States frigate Essex, of 32 guns, 255 men, David Porter, Esq. commander, in an ac- tion fought on the 28th March, 1814, Valparaiso Bay, with the British frigate Phcvbe, of 36 guns, 320 men, James Hillyar, Esq. commander, and the sloop of war Cherub, mounting 28 guns, 180 men, comman- ded by T. Tucker, Esq. Killed in action and have since died of their wounds. — James P Wilmer, 1st lieutenant ; John G. Cowell, 3d do.; Henry Kennedy, boatswain's mate; William Smith, do.; Francis Bland, quarter master ; Reuben Marshal, quarter gunner ; Thomas Bailey, boatswain's yeoman ; and fifty-three seamen, marines, &/C. Severely wounded — Edward Barnewell, sailing- master ; Edward Linscott, boatswain ; William Kingsbury, boatswain ; Essex jun. and twenty two others. Slightly wounded — Only twenty-five. M i s s i n g — Thirty-one. recapitulation. Killed, 60 Severely wounded, 37 Slightly wounded, 25 Missing, - - 31 Total - - - - 153 During the action, the Essex-Junior lay in the port of Valparaiso, under the guns of a Spanish fort, una- ble to take any part in the contest. After the action, Capt. Porter and his crew were paroled, and by ar-' rangement permitted to come home in the Essex-Jun- ior, and a cartel with his crew. Off the Hook they were detained 24 hours by the British. razee Saturn, in company with the frigate Narcissus. Capt. Por- ter left the Essex-Junior on the 6th of Julv, in one of her yawls, with six men, about thirty miles outside of the Hook, and landed on the 7th at Babylon on Long- Island, where he procured a waggon, took on board NAVAL MONUMENT. 115 his yawl and jolly tars, and reached Brooklyn about five o'clock P. M. The Essex had landed all her specie, amounting to two millions, at Valparaiso previous to her being cap- tured. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COM. HILLYAR TO ME. My dear Sir, Phoebe, April 4, 1814. Neither in my conversations nor the accompany- ing letter, have I mentioned you sword. Ascribe my remissness in the first instance to forgetfulness ; I consider it only in my servant' s possession with my own, until the master may please to call for it ; and although I omitted, at the moment of presentation, from my mind being much engrossed in attending to professional duties, to offer its restoration, the hand that received will be most gladly extended, to put it in possession of him who wore it so honorably in de- fending his country's cause. Believe me, my dear Sir, very faithfully yours, JAMES HILLYAR. Capt. Porter. After some conversation on the subject the follow- ing correspondence took place. Sir, Valparaiso, Aprils, 1814. Taking into consideration the immense distance we are from our respective countries, the uncertainty of the future movements of his majesty's ships under my command, which precludes the possibility of my mak- ing a permanent arrangement for transporting the of- ficers and crew, late of the Essex, to Europe ; and the fast approaching season which renders a passage round Cape Horn in some degree dangerous : I have the honor to propose for your approbation the follow- ing articles, which, I hope, the government of the United States, as well as that of Great Britain, will deem satisfactory ; and to request, that should you conceive them so, you will favor me with the neces- sary bond for fulfillment. 116 NAVAL MONUMENT. First. The Essex-Junior to be deprived of all her armament and perfectly neutralized ; to be equip- ed for the voyage solely and vvlioly at the expense of the American government ; and to proceed with a proper American officer and crew (of which I wish to be furnished with a list, for the purpose of giving the necessary passport) to any port of the United States of America that you may deem most proper. Second. Yourself, the officers, petty officers, sea- men, marines, &,c. composing your crew, to be ex- changed immediately on their arrival in America, for an equal number of British prisoners of similar rank. Yourself and officers to be considered on their parole of honor until your and their exchange shall be effected: In case of the foregoing articles being accepted, the Essex- Junior, will be expected to prepare imme- diately for the voyage, and to proceed on it before the expiration of the present month : should any of the wounded at that period be found incapable of re- moval, from not being sufficiently advanced in their recovery, the most humane attention shall be paid them ; and they shall be forwarded home by the first favorable conveyance that may offer. I have the honor to be, &,c. Cap. David Porter, JAMES HILLYAR. Late commander of the U. S. frigate Essex. Sir, Valparaiso, 5 April, 1814. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your several favors of yesterday's date. The conditions offered by you for our return to the United States are perfectly satisfactory to me, and I entertain no doubts of their being equally so to my country ; I therefore do not hesitate to pledge my honor (the strongest bond I can give) that every arti- cle of the arrangement shall on our part be fully com- plied with. A list of the Essex- Junior' s crew shall be furnished you as soon as it can be made out, and her disarmament affected with all possible dispatch. I have the honor to be, &,c. Com. James Hillyar, D. PORTER. Commanding H. B. M. frigate Phoebe. NAVAL MONUMENT. 117 Com. Hillyar sent me a paper, certifying that he had exchanged certain Individuals therein named, making part of the crew of the Sir Andreio Ham- mond, for an equal number of the most severely wounded of my crew : this occasioned the following letters. Sir, Valparaiso, 4 April, 1814.. I have received a paper signed by you, dated yes- terday, stating, that you had exchanged certain woun- ded prisoners, making part of my crew, for the captain and crew of the prize ship Sir Andrew Hammond ; which paper I have taken the liberty to return to you, and protest in the strongest terms against such an ar- rangement In the first place the wounded and helpless individu- als, therein named, do not wish such exchange : one died last night, and several others expect to share his fate. Secondly, should 1 from any circumstances be sep- arated from them, which would be more likely to be the case than if they remained prisoners, their situa- tion would be more deplorable then it is at present. Thirdly, this arrangement has been made without my consent and on terms far from offering equal advanta- ges to the United States. I have the honor to be, &,c. Com. James Hillyar, D. PORTER. Commanding H. B. M. Phoebe. Sir, H. B. M. Ship, Valparaiso, April 4, 1814. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of this day's date, protesting against the arrange- ment made in the paper you returned, and to express a regret that my wish, which was to alleviate and not increase the afflictions of your wounded officers and crew, has failed of being gratified. I am sorry you have thought proper to mention the dead and dying, as I so fully explained to you this morning, that in the event of the loss of any, other names should be added to the list. I shall now direct Capt. William 118 NAVAL MONUMENT. Porter to consider himself still a prisoner of war on his parole ; but as I have ordered the people to go on board the Essex to work, under the impression that no difficulty would arise, will liberate in exchange for them an equal number of prisoners, as their names, being seamen, shall be found to follow each other on your late ship's book, and give up also two mates or midshipmen for the two mates which are of the En- glish party. I hope this may prove satisfactory to your government and self. I am yours, &,c. Capt. D. Porter. JAMES KILLYAR. Sir, Valparaiso, 5 April, 1S14. The arrangement which you have suggested respect- ing the exchange of the seamen of the Sir Andrew Hammond for an equal number of seamen of the late United States frigate Essex, as they stand on the list furnished you, is perfectly satisfactory. It will be great satisfaction to the three officers, who accompany the Essex, to know, that after your object in taking them with you shall be effected, there will be no dificulty in their proceeding immediately for the United States. I take the liberty therefore to suggest, that they might be exchanged here for Capt. William Porter and his three mates. This will be an accomodation to all parties, and reconcile the officers so exchanged to a separation from their friends. I have the honor to be, &c. Com. James Hillyar, ■ D. PORTER. Commanding H. M. frigate Plmbe. COPY OF A LETTER FROM CAPTAIN PORTER TO THE SEC- RETARY OF THE NAVY. Sir, New-York, July 13, 1814. There are some facts relating to our enemy, and al- though not connected with the action, serve to show his perfidy, and should be known. On Com. llillyar's arrival at Valparaiso, he ran the Phaibc close alongside of the Essex, and inquired po- litely after my health, observing, that his ship was NAVAL MOJNUMENT. 119 cleared for action, and his men prepared for boarding, I observed, "Sir, if yon by any accident, get on board of me, I assure you that great confusion will take place ; I am prepared to receive you, but shall only act on the defensive." He observed, cooly and indif- ferently, "Oh, Sir, I have no such intention ;" at this instant his ship took aback on my starboard bow, her yards nearly locking with those of the Essex. I called all hands to board the enemy ; and in an instant my crew were ready to spring on her decks. Com. Hill- yar exclaimed, with great agitation, " I had no inten- tion of getting on board of you ; — I had no intention of coming so near you ; I am sorry I come so near you." His ship fell oif with her jib-boom over my decks ; her bows exposed to my broadside, her stern to the fire of the Essex- Junior, her crew in the great- est confusion, and in fifteen minutes, I could have ta- ken or destroyed her. After he had brought his ship to anchor, Com. Hillyar and Capt. Tucker of the Cherub, visited me on shore ; when I asked him if he intended to respect the neutrality of the port ; " Sir," said he," you have paid such respect to the neutrality of this port, that I feel myself bound, in honor, to do the same. I have the honor to be, &,c. DAVID PORTER. After the capture of the Essex, Capt. Porter enter- ed into an arrangement with Com. Hillyar, to trans- port the survivors of his crew to the U. States in the Essex-Junior on parole, on condition that she should receive a passport to secure her from recapture and detention. On the 5th of July, fell in with H. B. M. ship Saturn, Capt. Nash, who examined the papers of the Essex-Junior, treated Capt. Porter with great ci- vility, furnished him with late newspapers, and sent him on board some oranges ; and at the same time made him an offer of services. The boarding officer en- dorsed the passport, and permitted the ship to proceed. She stood on the same tack with the Saturn ; and about 2 hours aftewards was again brought to, the pa- 1 120 NAVAL MONUMENT. pers examined, and the ship's hold overhauled by the boat's crew and an officer. Capt. Porter expressed his astonishment at such proceedings, and was inform- ed that Capt. Nash had his motives. It was stated that Com. Hillyar had no authority to make such ar- rangement ; that the passport must go on board of the Saturn again, and the Essex-Junior be detained. Capt. Porter then insisted that the smallest detention would be a violation of the contract on the part of the British, and that he should consider himself as the prisoner of Capt. Nash, and no longer on his parol at the same time offering his sword, which was refus ed, assuring the officer he would deliver it up with the same feelings he had presented it to Coin. Hillyar. The officer went on board, returned and informed Capt. Porter, that the Essex-Junior must remain all night under the lee of the Saturn. Then, said Capt. Porter, I am your prisoner ; I do not feel myself bound by any contract with Com. Hillyar, and I shall act accordingly. At 7 o'clock next morning, the wind beinsf lisrht from the southward, the ships being about 30 or 40 miles from the land off the eastern part of Long Is- land, and about musket shot from each other, there appearing no disposition on the part of the enemy to liberate the Essex-Junior, Capt. Porter determined to attempt his escape. A boat was lowered down, man- ned and armed ; he desired Capt. Dowries to inform Capt. Nash, that he was now satisfied that most Brit- ish naval officers were not only destitue of honor, but regardless of the honor of each other ; that he was armed and prepared to defend himself against their boats, if sent in pursuit of him; and that they must hereafter meet him as an enemy. He now pulled off from the ship, keeping the Essex-Junior in a direct line between him and the Saturn, and got near gun-shot from them before he was discovered ; at this instant a fresh breeze sprung up, and the Saturn made all sail in pursuit of him, but fortunately a thick fog set in and concealed him, when he changed his course, and elu- NAVAL MONUMENT. 121 ded them. During the fog he heard a firing, and on its clearing up discovered the Saturn in chase of the Essex-Junior, who soon brought her to. After row- ing and sailing about 60 miles, Capt. Porter succeed- ed, with great difficulty and hazard, in reaching the town of Babylon, (Long Island) where, being strong- ly suspected to be an English officer, he was closely interrogated, and his story appearing so extraordinary, none gave credit ; but on showing his commission all doubts were removed, and he met from all the inhabi- tants the most friendly and hospitable reception. The following is a copy of the arrangement, con- cluded between Capt. Porter, in behalf of himself and crew, with Capt. Hillyar. By James Hillyar Esq. captain of H. B. M. Ship Phosbe, and senior officer of his majesty's ships in Valparaiso Bay. I hereby certify, that T have on the part of his Brit- annic Majesty, entered into an agreement with Capt. David Porter, of the United States navy, and late commander of the frigate Essex, who, on the part of his government, engages as follows, to wit: That him- self, his officers and crew will proceed to the United States, in the ship called the Essex-Junior, as a car- tel, commanded by Lieut. John Downes, of the Uni- ted States navy, and having a crew, consisting of the officers and men, named in the annexed list. The said Capt. Porter, his officers and crew, a list of which is subjoined, will remain as prisoners of war on parole, not to take arms against Great Britain un- til regularly exchanged, and that he pledges his hon- or to fulfil the foregoing conditions. I therefore request, that said ship, the Essex-Junior, may be permitted to pass freely to the United States without any impedi- ment, and that the officers commanding the ships of war of his Britannic Majesty, as well as those of pri- vate armed vessels, and all others in authority under the British government, also those in alliance with his said majesty, will give the said David Porter, his offi- 16 122 NAVAL MONUMENT. cers and crew, and the crew of the aforesaid ship called the Essex-Junior, every aid and assistance to enable them to. arrive at the pl*>.ce of their desti- nation. And as it may become necessary for the Essex-Junior to touch at one or more places .for the purpose of ob- taining refreshment and supplies, it is requested, that in such case all, to whom this passport may be present- ed, will give the persons on board said ship every fa- cility in supplying their wants, and permit them to de- part with her without hindrance. Given under my hand, on board his majesty's ship Phoebe, at Valparaiso, April, 1814. A gentleman, who took part in the engagement, has related the following anecdotes exemplary of that fearless and patriotic spirit which animated the whole crew of the Essex, and which has characterized our hardy sailors in all their combats with the enemy. To the memory of these brave fellows their publicity is due ; and we doubt not many more instances of chivalrous heroism, resulting from a noble love of country, might be obtained and recorded, to the lasting honor of the American name. John Ripley, after losing his leg, said " farewell, boys ; I can be of no use to you ;" and leaped out of the bow port. John Alvinson received a cannon ball (18 pounder) through the body ; in the agony of death he exclaim- ed, "never mind, shipmates ; I die in defence of 'Free trade and sailors' r-i-g-h-t-s ; '" and expired with the word rights quivering on his lips. James Anderson had his left leg shot off, and died animating his shipmates to fight bravely in defence of liberty. After the engagement, Benjamin Hazen, having dressed himself in a clean shirt and jerkin, addressed his remaining messmates, and telling them he never could submit to be a prisoner to the English, threw himself into the sea. NAVAL MONUMENT. 123 LETTER FROM CAPT. IIILLYAR TO COM. BROWN, STATIONED AT JAMAICA. His Majesty's Ship Phoebe, Sir, Valparaiso Bay, 30 March, 1814. I have the honor to acquaint you that, at 3 o'clock, in the afternoon of the 28th instant, after nearly four months, anxious watching with his majesty's brig Cherub, for the United States frigate Essex and her companion to quit the port of Valparaiso, we saw the former under way, and immediately the two ships made sail to close with her. On rounding the outer point of the bay, and haul- ing her wind, for the purpose of endeavoring to weath- er us and escape, she lost her main top-mast, and af- terwards, not succeeding in an effort to regain the lim- its of the port, she bore up and anchored so near the shore (a few miles to leeward of it) as to preclude the possibility of either of his majesty's ships passing a- head of her without risk. As we drew near, my in- tention of going close under his stern was frustrated, from the ship's broaching off, and from the wind blow- ing extremely fresh. Our first fire commenced a little past 4, and continued about 10 minutes, but produced no visible effect ; our second, a few random shot only, from having increased our distance by wearing, was not apparently more successful ; and having lost the use of our main-sail, jib, and main-stay appearances were a little inauspicious, in standing again towards her. I hailed the Cherub, and signified my intention of anchoring, to Capt. Tucker, for which we were not ready before with springs, directing him to keep un- der sail, and take a convenient station for annoying our opponent. On closing the Essex, at 35 minutes past 5, the firing commenced, and before I gained my intended position, her cables were cut, and a serious conflict ensued, the guns of his majesty's ship becoming gradually more destructive ; and when it pleased the Almighty to bless the effort of my gallant companions, and my per- 124 NAVAL MONUMENT. sonal, very humble ones, with victory. My friend, Capt. Tucker, an officer worthy of their lordship's best attention, was most severely wounded at the com- mencement of the action, but remained on deck till it ter- minated ; he also informs me that his officers and crew, of whose loyalty, zeal, and discipline I entertain the highest opinion, conducted themselves to his satisfac- tion. I have to lament the death of four of my brave companions, and one of his, and my first lieutenant among the number : he fell early. Our list of woun- ded is small. The conduct of my officers, &c. was such as became good and loyal subjects. The defence of the Essex, taking into consideration our great superiority of force, the very discouraging circumstances of having lost her main top-mast, and being twice on fire, did honor to her defender, and must fully prove the courage of Capt. Porter. I was much hurt on hearing that her men had been encouraged, when the result of the action was evident- ly decided, some to take to their boats, and others to swim to the shore, many of whom were drowned in the latter attempt : sixteen were saved by the exertions of our people, and others, I believe between thirty and forty, effected their landing. I informed Capt. Porter, that I considered the latter, in point of honor, as my prisoners. He said the encouragement was given when the ship was in danger from fire, and I have not pressed the point. The Essex is completely stored and provisioned for six months, and although much injured in her upper works, masts and rigging, is not in such a state as to give the slightest cause of alarm respecting her being able to perform a voyage to Euorpe with perfect safety. I have the honor to be, &c. JAMES HILLYAR, Captain. SEQUEL OF CAPTAIN PORTER'S EXPEDITION IN THE SOUTH SEA. On the 19th November, 1813, Capt. Porter took NAVAL MONUMENT. 125 formal possession of the island, called by the natives Nooaheevah, generally known by the name of Sir Henry Martin's island, but now called Madison Isl- and. It is situated between lat. 9° and 10° S. and in long. 140° VV. from Greenwich. The following is a letter from Capt. Gamble to Capt. Porter. Capt. Gamble, the reader will recollect, was left by Capt. Porter with a few men, in charge of two or three vessels and some public property, when he sailed from Madison Island for Valparaiso, previous to his ever memorable battle in the Essex. The following letter comprises all the subsequent occurrances : Sir, New-York, August 30, 1815. With regret I have to inform you, the frigate had not got clear of the Marqueses, before we discovered in the natives a hostile disposition towards us, who in a few days became so insolent, that I found it absolute- ly necessary, not only for the security of the ships, and property on shore, but for our personal safety, to land my men, and regain by force of arms the many things they had, in the most daring manner, stolen from the encampment ; and what was of still greater impor- tance, to prevent, if possible, their putting threats into execution, which might have been attended with the most serious consequences on our part from duty re- quiring my men to be so much seperated. I however had the satisfaction to accomplish my wish without firing a musket, and from that time lived in the most perfect amity with them, until the 7th May following, when my destressed situation placed me in their power. Before mentioning the lamentable events of that day, and the two succeeding ones, I shall give you a brief account of a few preceding occurrences, which were sources of great uneasiness to me. The first was the death of John Wetter, marine, who was un fortunately drowned in the surf, on the afternoon of the 28th February, and the desertion of four of my 126 NAVAL MONUMENT. men. They took the advantage of a dark night, and left the bay unobserved by any person, all except- ing one, a prisoner, having the watch on deck. They took with them several muskets, a supply of am- munition, and many articles of but little value. My attempt to pursue them was prevented by their destroy- ing partially the only boat ( near the beach ) at that time sea-worthy. # » On the 12th April, began to rig the ships Seringap- atam and Sir Andreiv Hammond, which, as I calcu- lated, employed the men until the 1st of May. All hands were then engaged in getting the remainder of the property from the Greenwich to the Seringapatam, as I began to despair of your rejoining me at that place. The work went on well, and the men were obedient to my orders, though I discovered an evident change in their countenances, which led me to suppose there was something wrong in agitation, and under that im- pression, had all the muskets, ammunition, and small arms of every description, taken to the Greenwich, the ship I lived on board, from the other ships, as a ne- cessary precaution against a surprize from my own men. On the 7th May, while on board the Seringapatam, on duty, which required my being present, a mutiny took place, in which I was wounded, and the muti- neers succeeded in getting the Seringapatam out of the bay. Two days after, when making the necessary preparations to depart for Valparaiso, we were attack- ed by the savages, and I have, with the deepest re- gret, to inform you, sir, that Midshipman, William Fclters, John Thomas, Thomas Gibbs, and William Brudinell, were massacred, and Peter Coddington, marine dangerously wounded. After bending the jib and spanker we cut our moorings, and fortunately had a light breeze, that carried the ship clear of the bay, with six cartridges remaining out of the only barrel left us bv the mutineers. After getting out of the bay, we found our situation NAVAL MONUMENT. 127 most distressing. In attempting to run the boat up, it broke in two parts, and we were compelled to cut away from the bows the only anchor, not being able to cat it. We mustered altogether eight souls, out of which there was one cripple, one dangerously woun- ded, one sick, one just recovering from the scurvy, and myself confined to the bed with a high fever, produc- ed by my wound. In that state, destitute of charts, and almost of eve- ry means of navigating the ship, I reached the Sand- wich Islands, after a passage of seventeen days, and suffering much from fatigue and hardships. I was there unfortunately captured by the English ship Cher- ub, remained a prisoner on board of her seven months, during which time my men were treated in a most shameful manner. We were then put on shore at Rio de Janeiro, without the possibility of getting away un- til after hearing of the peace. I then, by the advice of the physician who attended me, embarked on board a Swedish ship bound to Havre de Grace, (there be- ing no other means of my getting away at that time,) leaving behind Midshipman Clapp and five men, having lost one soon after my arrival in that place with the small pox. On the 1st inst. lat. 47° N. long. 18° W. we fell in with the* American ship Oliver Ell sioorlh, from Havre, bound to this port. I took a passage on board of her, and arrived here two days since, after being upwards of an hundred days at sea. I am at present unable to travel, and shall therefore await either your orders, or the orders of the commandant of the marine corps at this place. I have the honor to remain, with the highest respect and esteem, sir, your obed't serv't, JOHN M. GAMBLE 128 NAVAL MONUMENT. PEACOCK AND EPERVIER. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM CAPT. CHARLES MORRTS, COMMANDING THE U. S. SHIP ADAMS AT SAVANNAH, TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Sir, Savannah, May 2, 1814. I have the honor to inform you, that a fine brig of 18 guns, prize to the United States sloop Peacock, anchored here this morning. She is much shattered in her hull, and damaged in her rigging, having fought 45 minutes — her loss 8 killed and 15 wounded. The Peacock, 2 slightly wounded. She was chased on the 30th April, by a frigate, but escaped by running close in the shore in the night. Lieut. Nicholson, prize master, will forward you a more detailed account of this handsome affair. I am &,c. Hon. W. Jones &c. C. MORRIS. LETTER FROM LIEUT. NICHOLSON TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Sir, Savannah, May 1, 1814. I have the honor to inform you of my arrival here in late his Britannic majesty's brig Epervier, of eighteen 32 pound carronades, Capt. Wales, captured by the sloop Peacock, on Friday morning, the 29th, off Cape Carnaveral, after an action of 45 minutes, in which time she was much cut up in hull, spars, rigging and sails, with upwards of five feet of water in her hold, having the weathergage. She has lost S killed and 15 wounded ; among the latter her first lieutenant, who has lost his arm. I am happy to say, the Peacock received no material inju- ry — her fore-yard and two men slightly wounded — she received not one shot in her hull. The brig had up- wards of one hundred thousand dollars on board. I have the honor to be $lc. JOHN B. NICHOLSON. Hon. Willim Jones, Sec'y of the navy. NAVAL MONUMENT. 129 COPIES OP LETTERS FROM CAPT. WARRINGTON TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. U. S. Sloop Peacock, at sea, lat 27° 47', long. 80° 9', 29 April, 1814. I have the honor to inform you that we have this morning captured, after an action of 45 minutes, his majesty's brig Epervier, rating and mounting 18 thir- ty-two pound carronades, with 128 men, of whom 8 were killed and 15 wounded (according to the best in- formation we could obtain:) among the latter is her 1st lieutenant, who has lost an arm, and received a se- vere splinter wound on the hip. Not a man in the Peacock was killed, and only two wounded ; neither dangerously so. The fate of the Epervier would have been determined in much less time, but for the circum- stance of our foreyard being totally disabled by two round shot in the starboard quarter from her first broadside, which entirely deprived us of the use of our fore and fore-top sail, and compelled us to keep the ship large throughout the remainder of the action. This, with a few top-mast and top-gallant back-stays cut away, a few shot through our sails, is the only in- jury the Peacock has sustained. Not a round shot touched her hull ; our masts and spars are as sound as ever. When the enemy struck, he had five feet water in his hold, his main top-mast was over the side, his main-boom shot away, fore-mast cut nearly in two and tottering, his fore rigging and stays shot away, his bowsprit badly wounded, and 45 shot holes in his hull, 20 of which were within a foot of his water line. By great exertion we got her in sailing order just as dark came on. In fifteen minutes after the enemy struck, the Pea- cock was ready for another action, in every respect but her fore-yard, which was sent down, fished, and had the fore-sail set again in 45 minutes — such were the spirit and activity of our gallant crew. The Epervier had under convoy an English hermaphrodite brig, a Russian and a Spanish ship, all which hauled their 17 130 NAVAL MONUMENT. wind and stood to the E. N. E. I bad determined upon pursuing the former, but found that it would not answer to leave our prize, in her then crippled state and the more particularly so, as we found she had in $ 120,000 in specie, which we soon transferred to this sloop. Every officer, seaman, and marine did his du- ty, which is the highest compliment I can pay them. I am respectfully, L. WARRINGTON. P. S. From Lieut. Nicholson's report, who was counting up -the Epcrvier's crew, there were 11 killed and 15 wounded. L. W. Sir, Savannah, May 4, 1814. I have great satisfaction in being able to report to you the arrival of the Peacock at this anchorage to- day, and also the arrival of the Epervier on Monday last. I have now to detail to you the reason of our separation. We made sail as mentioned in my last, on the evening of the 29th of April. The next after- noon we were, at £ past 5, abreast the centre of Amelia Island, with the vessels in sight over the land, when two large ships, which had been seen sometime pre- vious a little to the northward of the Island, were clearly ascertained to be frigates in chase of us. In this situation, at the suggestion of Lieut. Nicholson, I took out all but himself and sixteen officers and men, and stood to the southward along shore, on a wind, leaving him to make the best of his way for St. Mary's ; which place I felt confident he would reach, as the weather frigate was in chase of the Peacock, and the other was too far to the leeward to fetch him : at 9 we lost sight of the chaser, but continued stand- ing all night to the southward, in hopes to get entirely clear of him. At day light we shortened sail and stood to the northward, and again made the frigate, who gave chase the second time, which he continued until 2 P. M. when finding lie could not come up, he desisted. In the evening we resumed our course, and saw nothing until day light on Tuesday morning, when NAVAL MONUMENT. 131 a large ship, supposed to be the same, was again seen in chase of us, and again run out of sight. This morning, at \ past 3, we made Tybee light, and at. half past 8 anchored near the United States ship Adams. As the enemy is hovering near to St. Mary's, I concluded he had received information of, and was waiting to intercept us. Accordingly we steered for this place, where we received intelligence of the Epervier' s arrival, after frightening off a launch which was sent from the enemy's ship to leeward on Saturday evening to cut him off from the land. From the ISth of April to the 24th we saw but one neutral, and two privateers, both which were chased without overhauling although we ran one among the shoals of Cape Carnaveral, and followed him into four fathoms water. We have been to the southward as far as the Great Isaacs, and have cruised from them to Maranilla reef, and along the Florida shore to Cape Carnaveral. Not a single running vessel has been through the gulf in all this time. The fleet sailed from Jamaica under convoy of a 74, two frigates, and two sloops, from the 1st to the 10th of May. They are so much afraid of our cruisers, that several ships in the Havanna ready for sea, which intended to run it (as it is called) were forced to wait the arrival of the convoy from Jamaica. The Epervier and her convoy were the first En- glish vessels we had seen. We shall proceed in the execution of your further instructions, as soon as we can get a fore yard, pro- visions, and water. The Epervier is one of their finest brigs, and is well calculated for our service. She sails extremely fast, and will require but little to send her to sea, as her armament and stores are complete. I enclose you a list of the brig's crew, as accurate- ly as we can get it. I am respectfully, L. WARRINGTON. 132 NAVAL MONUMENT.. U. S. Sloop Peacock, Savannah, Sir, 5 May, 1814. As my letter of yesterday was too late for the mail, I address you again in the performance of a duty which is pleasing and gratifying to me in a high de- gree, and is but doing justice to "the merits of the de- serving officers under my command, of whom I have hitherto refrained from speaking, as I considered it most correct to make it the subject of a particular communication. To the unwearied and indefatigable attention of Lieut. Nicholson (1st) in organizing and training the crew, the success of this action is in a great measure to be attributed. I have confided greatly in him, and have never found my confidence misplaced. For judg- ment, coolness, and decision in times of difficulty, few can surpass him. This is the second action in which he has been engaged in this war, and in both he has been successful. His greatest pride is to earn a com- mander's commission by fighting for, instead of heir- ing it. From Lieut. Henly (2d,) and Lieut. Voorhees, (ac- ting 3d, who has also been twice successfully engaged,) I received every assistance that zeal, ardor, and ex- perience could afford. The fire from their two divisions was terrible, and directed with the greatest precision and coolness. In Sailing Master Percival, whose great wish and pride it is to obtain a lieutenant's commission, and whose unremitting and constant attention to duty, add- ed to his professional knowledge, entitles him to it in my opinion, I found an able, as well as willing as- sistant. He handled the ship, as if he had been work- ing her into a roadstead. Mr. David Cole, acting Car- penter, I have also found such an able and valuable man in his occupation, that I must request in the most earnest manner, that he may receive a warrant ; for I feel confident, that to his uncommon exertion, we in a great measure owe the getting our prize into port. From 11 A. M. until 6 P. M. he was over her side, NAVAL MONUMENT. 133 stopping shot holes, on a grating, and, when the ordi- nary resources failed of success, his skill soon suppli- ed him with efficient ones. Mr. Philip Myers, mas- ter's mate, has also conducted himself in such a man- ner as to warrant my recommendation of him as a master. lie is a seaman, navigator, and officer ; his family in New- York is respected, and he would prove an acquisition to the service. My clerk, Mr. John S. Townsend is anxious to obtain through my means a midshipman's warrant, and has taken pains to qualify himself for it by volunteering, and constantly perform- ing a midshipman's duty — indeed, I have but little use for a clerk, and he is as great a proficient as any of the young midshipmen, the w T hole of whom behaved in a manner that was pleasing to me, and must be gratify- ing to you, as it gives an earnest of what they will make in time — 3 only have been to sea before, and 1 only in a man of war, yet they were as much at home, and as much disposed to exert themselves as any offi- cer in the ship. Lieut. Nicholson speaks in high terms of the conduct of Messrs Greeves and Rodgers, mid- shipmen, who were in the prize with him. I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obe't serv't, L. WARRINGTON. Hon. William Jones, &c. UNOFFICIAL PARTICULARS. The Epervier, being to windward, gallantly met the Peacock ; but the battle would have ended very soon, had not Capt. Warrington hailed, to ascertain whether she had struck, (her colors being shot away,) by the time spent in which he lost a commanding position ; for the action appeared to have ceased for the moment, and the brave Warrington would not shed blood wan- tonly. The force of the vessels in guns and weight of metal is the same, each rating 18, and carrying 22 ; but in men we had some superiority, the British hav- ing only 128, and we about 160 ; but the disparity of the execution done excites anew our wonder. The 134 NAVAL MONUMENT. hull of the Peacock was not struck by a round shot, whereas on the larboard side of the Epervier between 50 and GO took effect, many of them within a foot of the water line, and she was otherwise dreadfully maul- ed, and had one of her guns dismounted, with 5 feet water in her hold. She is one of the finest vessels of her class in the British navy, built in 1812. Itis said that "when she left London, bets were three to one, that she would take an American sloop of war or small frigate." The Peacock's length is 118 ft. — breadth of beam 32 ft. — depth of hold 14 ft. — tonnage 509 — she mounts 20 guns — had 160 men — killed none, wounded 2, shots in her hull, none. The Epervier's length 107 ft. — breadth of beam 32 ft. — depth of hold 14 ft. — tonnage 477. She mounted 18 guns, same calibre with those of the Peacock — had 128 men — killed 11, wounded 15, shots in her hull 45 ! The Epervier was sold at Savannah and purchased by government for fifty five thousand dollars. WASP AND REINDEER. LETTER FROM JOHNSTON BLAKELEY TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Sir, 17". S. Sloop Wasp, L' Orient, 8 July, 1814. On Tuesday, the 28th ult. being then in lat. 48° 36' N. and long. 11° 15' W. we fell in with, engaged, and after an action of 19 minutes, captured, his Brit- annic Majesty's sloop of war the Reindeer, William Manners Esq. commander. Annexed are the minutes of our proceedings prior to, and during the continu- ance of the action. Where all did their duty, and each appeared anxious to excel, it is very difficult to discriminate. It is, however, only rendering them their merited due, when it is declared of Lieuts. Reilly and Bury, 1st and 3d of this vessel, and whose names will be among those of the conquerors of the Guerrierc and Java ; and of Mr. Tillinghast, 2d lieutenant, who was greatly in- > M w NAVAL MONUMENT. 135 strumental in the capture of the Boxer, that their con- duct and courage on this occasion fulfilled the highest expectation and gratified every wish. Sailing Master Carr is also entitled to sreat credit for the zeal and ability with which he discharged his various duties. The cool and patient conduct of every officer and man, while exposed to the fire of the shifting guns of the enemy, and without an opportunity of returning it, could only be equalled by the animation and ardor exhibited, when actually engaged, or by the prompti- tude and firmness with which every attempt of .the en- emy to board was met and successfully repelled. Such conduct may be seen but cannot well be de- scribed. The Reindeer mounted sixteen 241b. carronades, two long 6 or 9 pounders, and a shifting 12 pound car- ronade, with a complement on board of 118 men. Her crew were said to be the pride of Plymouth. Our loss in men has been severe, owing in part to the proximity of the two vessels and the extreme smoothness of sea, but chiefly in repelling board- ers. That of the enemy, however, was infinitely more so, as will be seen by the list of killed and woun- ded on both sides. Six round shot struck our hull, and many grape which did not penetrate far. The fore-mast received a 241b. shot which passed through its centre, and our rigging and sails were a good deal injured. The Reindeer was literally cut to pieces in a line with her ports ; her tipper works, boats, and spare spars were one complete wreck. A breeze springing up next afternoon, her fore-mast went by the board. Having received all the prisoners on board, which from the number of wounded occupied much time, to- gether with their baggage, the Reindeer was on the eve- ning of the 29th set on fire, and in a few hours blew up. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obe't serv't, J. BLAKELEY Hon. William Jones, Slc. 136 NAVAL MONUMENT. Minutes of the action between the U. S. Sloop Wasp, and H. B. M. Sloop Reindeer on the 28th of June 1814, in lat. 48° 36' JV. and long. 11° 15' W. At 4 A. M. light breezes and cloudy ; at \ after 4, discovered two sails, two points before the lee-beam, kept away in chase ; shortly after discovered one sail on the weather beam ; altered the course and hauled by in chase of the sail to windward ; at 8, sailed to windward, bore E, N. E. wind very light ; at 10, the stranger sail, bearing E. by N. hoisted an English ensign and pendant, and displayed a signal at the main (blue and yellow diagonally,) Meridian, light airs and cloudy ; at \ past 12, the enemy showed a blue and white flag diagonally at the fore, and fired a gun ; 15 minutes after 1, called all hands to quarters and prepared for action; 22 minutes after 1, believ- ing we could weather the enemy, tacked ship and stood for him ; 50 minutes after 1, hoisted our colors and fired a gun to windward, which was answered by the enemy with another to windward ; 20 minutes al- ter 2, the enemy still standing from us, set the royals ; 25 minutes after 2, set the flying gib ; 29 minutes af- ter 2, set the upper stay-sails ; 32 minutes after 2, the enemy having tacked for us, took in the stay-sails ; 37 minutes after 2, furled the royals : 51 minutes after 2, seeing that the enemy would be able to weather us, tacked ship ; 3 minutes after 3, the enemy hoisted his flying gib ; brailed upourmizen; 15 minutes afier 3, the enemy on our weather quarter, distant about sixty yards, fired his shifting gun, a 121b. carronade, at us, loaded with round and grape shot, from his" top-gal- lant fore-castle ; 17 minutes after 3, fired the same gun a second time ; 19 minutes after 3, fired it a third time; 21 minutes after 3, fired it. a fourth time, 21. minutes after 3, a fifth shot, all from the same gun. Finding the enemy did not get sufficiently on the beam to enable us to bring our guns to bear, put the helm a-lee, and at 26 minutes alter 3, commenced the ac- tion with the after carronade on the starboard side, and fired in succession ; 34 minutes after 3, hauled up NAVAL MONUMENT. 137 the main-sail ; 40 minutes after 3, the enemy having his bow in contact with our larboard quarter, endeav- ored to board us, but was repulsed in every attempt ; at 44 minutes alter 3, orders were given to board in turn, which were promptly executed, when all resis- tance immediately ceased ; and at 45 minutes after 3, the enemy hauled down his flag. J. BLAKELY. List of killed and ivounded on board the United States sloop of war Wasp, in the action with the Reindeer. Killed — Five seamen. Wounded — Twenty one. RECAPITULATION. Killed - 5 Wounded - - 21 List of the killed and ivounded on board his B. JM. sloop of war Reindeer. Killed — William Manners, Esq. commander; John Thos. Barton, and 23 petty officers and sea- men. Wounded — Thos. Chambets, 1st lieutenant: Rich- ard Jones, master, and 40 petty officers and seamen. recapitulation. Killed - 35 Wounded — dangerously - 10 Severely - 17 Slightly - 15 Whole number wounded 42 N. B. More than half the wounded were, in conse- quence of the severity and extent of their wounds, put on board a Portuguese brig, called the Lisbon Packet, on the third day after action, to wit, 1st July, bound to plymouth, England. 18 138 NAVAL MONUMENT. COPY OF A LETTER FROM CAPTAIN J. BLAKELEY TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Sir, U. S. Sloop Wasp, L' Orient, SJuly, 1814. I have the honor to announce to you the arrival of this ship to day at this place. — By the pilot who carried us out of Portsmouth N. II. I had the satisfaction to make you acquainted with our having left that place, and again had the pleasure of addressing you by the French national brig OH ye, and which was the first vessel we had spoken since our departure from the United States, From the time of our sailing I continued the rout pointed out in your instructions, until our arrival at this place, during which we have been so fortunate as to make several captures ; a list of which will accom- pany this. — These with their cargoes were wholly des- troyed, with one exception. This was the Galliot t Henrietta, which was permitted to return with prison- ers, 38 in number, after throwing overboard the greater part of her cargo, leaving only sufficient to ballast her. When arrived on our crusing ground, I found it im- possible to maintain any thing like a station, and was led, in chase, farther up the English channel then was intended. After arriving on soundings, the number of neutrals, which are now passing, kept us almost constantly in pursuit. It gives me much pleasure, to state to you the very healthy condition of the crew of the Wasp during the cruise : sometimes without one on the sick list, and at no time any who remained there more than a few days. Great praise is due to Dr. Clark for his skill and attention at all times ; but particularly after the action with the Reindeer, his unweared assiduity to the necessities of the wounded was highly conspicious. The ship is at present under quarantine, but we ex- pect to be released from it tomorrow, when the woun- ded will be sent to the hospital, and every exertion made to prepare the Wasp for sea. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obedient, servant, Hon. Wm. Jones, J. BLAKELEY. Secretary of the navy. NAVAL MONUMENT. 139 LETTER FROM CAPTAIN BLAKELEY TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY Sir, 17". S. Sloop Wasp, L' Orient, 10 July, 1814. After the capture of his B. M. sloop of war, the Reindeer, \l was my wish to have continued the cruise, as directed by you. I was however necessitated to relinquish this desire after a few days, from a consideration of the wounded of our crew, whose wounds had at this season become offensive, and ag- gravated by the number of prisoners on board at the time, being seventy-seven in number. Fearing, from the crowded state of the Wasp, that some valuable lives might be lost, if retained on board, was compel- led, though with reluctance, to make the first neutral port. Those belonging to the Reindeer, who were dangerously wounded, were put on board a Portuguese brig bound to England three days after the action, and from the winds which prevailed, arrived prob- ably in two or three days after their departure. Their surgeon, the captain's clerk, and officers' servants, and the crew of the Orange Boven, were put on board of the same vessel to attend upon them. Since our arrival at this place we have expe- rienced every civility from the public authorities. Our quarantine was only for a few hours, and our wounded, fourteen in number, were carried yesterday to the hos- pital, where they were comfortably situated. Our fore-mast, although badly wounded, can be repaired, and will be taken on shore as soon as possible. All other damages sustained can be repaired by ourselves. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, Hon. W. Jones, &c. J. BLAKELY. LETTER FROM J. BLAKELEY ESQ. TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. XI. S. Sloop of war Wasp, at sea, off Belle Isle, Sir, 27 August, 1814. It is with sincere sorrow that I have to announce to you the decease of Midshipmen Henry S. Langdon 140 NAVAL MONUMENT. and Frank Toscan. They were wounded in the ren- contre with the Reindeer, and all our efforts to save them, after our arrival, proved unavailing. It was their first essay, and although wounded, remained at their posts until the contest terminated. The constan- cy and courage with which they bore their sufferings leads to the melancholy, though proud reflection, of what they might have been, had providence ordained otherwise. Every respect due to worth was shown to their memory. It is with regret that I have to inform you of the delays we have experienced at this place, but had they been of shorter duration, we could not possibly have sailed, as one continued westerly wind has pre- vailed from the hour of our arrival up to the present day. The course pointed out in your instructions having been interrupted, I shall endeavor to fulfil your further intentions as far as possibly be in my power. With great satisfaction, I add, that every aid in the power of Mr. Crawford has been promptly affor- ded, and that I feel under many obligations to him for his attention and assistance. We are now off this place with a fair wind and fa- vorable prospects. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, Hon. W. Jones, &c. J. BLAKELY. WASP AND AVON. LETTER FROM CAPT. BLAKELEY TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. U. S. Sloop Wasp, at sea, lat. 41 ° JV. long. 11° W Sih, llffc Sept. 1811. After a protracted and tedious stay at L'Orient, had at last the pleasure of leaving that place on Sat- urday, 27th of August. On the 30th, captured the British brig Lcttice, Henry Cockbain master ; and on NAVAL MONUMENT. 141 the 31st of August, the British brig Bon Accord, Adam Durno master. In the morning of the 1st of September, discovered a convoy of 10 sail to leward, in charge of the Armada 74, and a bomb ship ; stood for them and succeeded in cutting out the British brig Mary, John D. Allen master, laden with brass can- non, taken from the Spaniards, iron cannon and mili- tary stores from Gibraltar to England : removed the prisoners, set her on fire, and endeavored to capture another of the convoy, but was chased off by the Ar- mada. On the evening of the same day at £ past 6, while going free, discovered four vessels, nearly at the same time, two on the starboard, and two on the larboard bow, being the farthest to windward. At 7, the chase, a brig, commenced making signals, with flags, which could not be distinguished, for want of light, and soon after mnde various ones, with lanterns, rockets, and guns. At 29 minutes after 9, having the chase under our leebow, the 131b. caronade was directed to be fired into him, which he returned ; ran under his lee-bow to prevent his escaping, and commenced the action. At 10 o'clock, believing the enemy to be si- lenced, orders were given to cease firing, when I hail- ed and asked if he had surrendered. No answer being given to this and his firing having recommen- ced, it was agained returned. At 12 minutes after 10, the enemy having suffered greatly, and having made no return to our last two broadsides, I hail- ed him the second time to know if he had suren- dered, when he answered in the affirmative. The guns were then ordered to be secured, and the boat lowered to take posession. In the act of lowering the boat, a second brig was discovered a little distance astern and standing for us. Sent the crew to their quarters, prepared every thing for another action, and awaited his coming up. At 38 minutes after 10, dis- covered two more sails astern, standing towards us. I now felt myself compelled to forgo the satisfaction of destroying the prize. Our braces having been cut away, we kept off the wind until others could be rove, 142 NAVAL MONUMENT. and with the expectation of drawing the second brig from his companions; but in this last we were disappoin- ted. The second brigcontinued to approach us until she came close to our stern, when she haulted by the wind, fired her broadside, which cut our rigging and sails considerably, and shot away a lower main cross tree, and retraced her steps to join her consorts ; when we were necessitated to abandon the prize. He appeared in every respect a total wreck. He contin- ued for some time firing guns of distress, until proba- bly delivered by the two last vessels who made their appearance. The second brig could have engaged us if he thought proper, as he neared us fast : but contented himself with firing a broadside, and immediately re- turned to his companions. It is with real satisfaction I have again the pleasure of bearing testimony to the merits of Lieut. Reilly, Tillinghast, Baury and Sailing Master Carr : and to the good conduct of every officer and man on board the Wasp. Their divisions and departments were attended and supplied with the utmost regularity and abundance, which, with the good order maintained, together with the vivacity and precision of their fire, reflects on them the greatest credit. Our loss is two killed, and one slighily wounded with a wad. The hull received four round shot, and the fore-mast many grape shot. Our rigging and sails suffered a great deal. Every damage has been repaired the day after, with the exception of our sails. Of the vessels with whom we were engaged, noth- ing positive can be said with regard to her name or force. While hailing him previous to his being fired into, it was blowing fresh (then going ten knots) and the name was not distinctly understood. Of her force, the four shot which struck us are all 32 pounds in weight, being a pound and three quarters heavier than any belonging to this vessel. From this circumstance, the number of men in her tops, her general appear- NAVAL MONUMENT. 143 ance and great length, she is believed to be one of the largest brigs in the British navy. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, vour most obedient servant, Hon. W. Jones, &c. J. BLAKELEY. P. S. I am told the enemy, after his surrender, asked for assistance, and said he was sinking- — the probability of this is confirmed by his firing single guns for some time after his capture. List of Killed and icounded on board the XI. S. Sloop of war the Wasp Johnston Blakeley, Esq. comman- der, in the action with his Britannic JWajesty,s Sloojy of war ,on the 1st of September 1814. Killed — Joseph Martin, boatswain; Henry Sta- ples, quarter gunner. Wounded — One. seaman. RECAPITULATION. Killed - - - 2 Wounded - - 1 Total 3 Extract of a private letter from an officer of the Uni- ted States Sloop Wasp. At sea, September 23, 1814. " Capt. Blakely, I believe, sends official accounts up to this date, doubtless for publication. To his let- ters therefore I refer you for correct particulars regar- ding our cruise. " The Wasp has been one of the most successful cruisers out of the United States. She has been the favorite of Fortune, and we offer thanks to divine Providence for its support and protection. " She has now been three months and five days at sea, with a complement of 173 men, whose ages aver- age only 23 years. The greatest part so green, that is, unaccustomed to the sea, that ihey were sick for a week. "In that time however she has destroyed twelve 144 NAVAL MONUMENT. British merchant vessels and their cargoes, the whole value of which, I presume, was not less than 200,000 pounds sterling. The thirteenth merchantman we are now despatching to the United States. She is the first we have attempted to send in but being an uncom- mon fast sailer, we have great hopes of her safe arrival ; and for my part, with judicious management, I have no doubt of it. She is a very beautiful brig of 253 tons, coppered to the bends and copper fastened, and has a very valuable cargo on board, consisting of brandy, wines, cambrics, &,c. She was from Liver- pool bound to Bordeaux, thence to Pensacola. " The Was]) is a beautiful ship, and the finest sea boat, I believe in the world ; our officers and crew, young and ambitious — they fight with more cheerful- ness than they do any other duty. Capt. Blakeley is a brave and discreet officer ; as cool and collected in action as at table." BRITISH ACCOUNT. Cork, September 7, 1814. On Thursday last, his Majesty's ships Castillian, Lieut. Lloyd, (acting) and Avon Hon. Capt. Arbuthnot, having sailed hence about a month ago, gave chase to an American schooner privateer, (having previously recaptured a vessel taken by her,) but owing to the superior sailing of the Castillian, she left the Avon a considerable distance behind, who, after a short time, found herself in sight of a vessel, which she hailed and demanded who she was ; upon which she replied, " heave to, and I'll let you know who I am ; (this was about 9 at night,) and fired a gun at the Avon, when a most sanguinary action commenced, which continu- ed until 11 o'clock ; she then sheared off, and said, "this is the Wasp." She appeared in a sinking state, and glad to get off. The Avon then fired signal guns to the Castillian. Upon the Castillian coming to the Avon, she fell in with the Wasp, and demanded who she was ; to which she made no answer. The Castill- ian lulled under her lee quarter and gave her a broad- ' , . £ I m pi ri; -1, 111! Htm ffliaP NAVAL MONUMENT.. 145 side, and then hailed again — but no answer, nor yet a single musket fired. The Castillian finding the sink- ing state of the Avon, made every effort to save the lives of her brave crew : fortunately the whole were saved. As the last boat with the wounded had got about half way to the Castillian, the Avon went down head foremost. We lament to say, that between the second and third broadside, Lieut. Prendergast, the gallant first lieutenant of the Avon received a mortal wound across the belly, from a grape shot, while in the act of cheering the crew. The Avon had nine killed and thirty three wounded. As soon as the Castillian had discharged the duties of humanity, in taking on board the Avon's crew, she made all sail for the Wasp, who appeared so cut up, as to be in a sinking state ; but could not make out any trace whatever of her. Names of the superior officers on board the Avon : Hon. John James Arbuthnot, captain ; John Harvey, first lieutenant ; John Prendergast, second do. ; and James Allen, master. The Tartarus sloop of war, joined the Castilian as the Avon was sinking, and took on board forty of her men. VICTORY ON LAKE CHAMPLAIN. COPIES OF LETTERS FROM COM. MACDONOUGH TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. U. S. Ship Saratoga, off Plattsburg, Sir, September 11, 1814. The Almighty has been pleased to grant us a sig- nal victory on Lake Champlain, in the capture of 1 frigate, 1 brig, and 2 sloops of war of the enemy. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, Sir, your most obedient servant, Hon William Jones, T. MACDONOUGH. Sec'y of the navy. 19 146 NAVAL MONUMENT, Sir, September 13, 1S14. By Lieut. Commandant Cassin, I have the honor to convey to you the flags of his Britannic Majesty's late squadron, captured on the 11th hist, by the United States squadron under my command. Also my des- patches relating to that occurance, which should have been in your possession at an earlier period, but for the difficulty in arranging different statements. The squadron under my command now lies at Platts- burg. It will bear considerable diminution, and still leave a force sufficient to repel any attempt of the ene- my in this quarter. I shall wait your order what to do with the whole or any part thereof. I have the honor to be, &,c. Hon W. Jones, T. MACDONOUGH. Secretary of the navy. Sir, September 13, 1814. I have the honor to give you the particulars of the action which took place on the 11th instant on this lake. For several days the enemy were on their way to Plattsburg, by land and water, and it being well un- derstood that an attack would be made at the same time by their land and naval forces, I determined to await at anchor the approach of the latter. At 8 A. M. the look-out boat announced the ap- proach of the enemy. At 9 he anchored in a line ahead, at about 300 yards distance from my line ; his ship opposed to the Saratoga, his brig to the Ea- gle, Capt. Robert Henly his galleys, 13 in number, to the schooner, sloop, and a division of our galleys ; I of his sloops assisting their ship and brig, the other assisting their galleys : our remaining galleys with the Saratoga and Eagle. In this situation the whole force on both sides be- came engaged, the Saratoga suffering much from the heavy fire of the Gonjiancc. I could perceive at the same time, however, that our fire was very destructive to her. The Ticonderoga, Lieut. Com. Cassin, gal- lantly sustained her full share of the action. At \ past NAVAL MONUMENT. 147 10 o'clock, the Eagle, not being able to bring her guns to bear, cut her cable and anchored in a more eligible position, between my ship and the Ticonderoga, where she was much annoyed by the enemy, but unfortunate- ly leaving me exposed to a galling fire from the ene- my's brig. Our guns on the starboard side being nearly all dismounted, or not manageable, a stern an- chor was let go, the bow cable cut, and the ship win- ded with a fresh broadside on the enemy's ship, which soon after surrendered. Our broadside was then sprung to bear on the brig, which surrendered in 15 minutes after. The sloop that was opposed to the Eagle had struck some time before and drifted down the line, the sloop which was . with their galleys having struck also. Three of their galleys are said to be sunk ; the others pulled off. Our galleys were about obeying with alacrity the signal to follow them, when all the * vessels were reported to me to be in a sinking state ; it then became necessary to annul the signal to the galleys and order their men to the pumps. I could only look at the enemy's galleys going off in a shattered condition, for there was not a mast in either squadron that could stand to make sail on ; the lower rigging being nearly all shot away, hung down as though it had been just placed over the mast heads. The Saratoga had 55 round shot in her hull, the Coiifiance 105. The enemy's shot passed principally just over our heads, as there were not 20 whole ham- mocks in the nettings at the close of the action, which lasted without intermission 2 hours and 20 minutes. The absence and sickness of Lieut. Raymond Perry, left me without the services of that excellent officer ; much ought fairly to be attributed to him for Ins great care and attention ki disciplining the ship's crew as her 1st Lieutenant. His place was filled by a gallant young officer, Lieut. Peter Gamble, who, I regret to inform you was killed early in the action. Acting Lieut. Valette worked the 1st and 2d divisions of guns with able effect. Sailing-M aster Bruin's attention to 148 NAVAL MONUMENT. the springs, and in the execution of the order to wind the ship, and occasionally at the guns, meets with my entire approbation, also Capt. Youngs, commanding the acting marines, who took his men to the guns. Mr. Beale, purser, was of great service at the guns, and in carrying my orders throughout the ship, with Midshipman Montgomery. Master's Mate Joshua Justin, had command of the 3d division : his conduct during the action was that of a brave and correct of- ficer. Midshipmen Monteath, Graham, Williamson, Piatt, Thwing, and acting Midshipman Baldwin, all behaved well, and gave evidence of their making valu- able officers. The Saratoga was twice set on fire by hot shot from the enemy's ship. I close, sir, this communication with feelings of gratitude for the able support I received from every officer and man attached to the squadron which I have the honor to command. I have the honor to be, with great respect, Sir your most obedient servant, Hon. W. Jones, T. MACDONOUGH. Secretary of the navy. P. S. Accompanying this is a list of killed and wounded, a list of prisoners, and a precise statement of both forces engaged. Also letters from Capt. Hen- ley and Lieut. Com. Cassin. T. M. Return of killed and wounded on board the United States squadron on Lake Chamjilain, in the en- gagement with the British fleet on the Wth Sep- tember, 1814. Ship Saratoga. Killed — Peter Gamble, lieu- tenant ; Thomas Butler, quarter gunner ; James Nor- berry, boatswain's mate ; Abraham Davis, quarter master ; William Wycr, sail maker ; and twenty-three seamen. Wou n de d — Twenty-nine. Brig Eagle. Killed — Thirteen. NAVAL MONUMENT. 149 Wounded — Joseph Smith, lieutenant ; William A. Spencer, acting lieutenant ; Francis Breeze, mas- ter's mate ; Abraham Walters, pilot ; and sixteen sea- men. Schooner Ticonderoga. Killed — John Stansbury, lieutenant ; John Fisher and John Atkinson, boat- swain's mates ; and three seamen. Wounded — Six. Sloop Preble. Killed — Two. Wounded — None. Gun-boat Borer. Killed — Three. Wounded — One. Gun-boat Centipede. Wounded — One. Gun-boat Wilmer. Wounded — One. recapitulation. Killed. Wounded. Saratoga - - 28 29 Eagle - 13 20 Ticonderoga - 6 6 Preble - 2 Borer - 3 1 Centipede - - 1 Wilmer - 1 Total 52 58 Gun-boats Nettle, Mien, Viper, Burrows, Ludlow, Mwyn, Ballard — None killed or wounded. GEORGE BEALE, jr. Purser. Statement of the American force engaged on the Wth September, 1814. Saratoga, eight long 24 pounders, six 42 pound carronades, and twelve 32 pound carronades - 26 Eagle, twelve 23 pound carronades, and eight long 18s - - - - - 20 Ticonderoga, eight long 12 pounders, four long 18 pounders, and five 32 pound carronades - 17 Preble seven long 9 pounders - 7 Ten galleys, viz. — Allen, Burrows, Borer, Net- 150 NAVAL MONUMENT. tie, Viper, Centipede, one long 24 pounder and one 18 pound columbiad each - .- 12 Ludlow, Wilmer, Mwin, Ballard, 1 long 12 pounder each ------ 4 Guns, 86 Recapitulation — fourteen long 24 pounders, six 42 pound carronades, twenty-nine 32 pound carronades, twelve long 18 pounders, twelve long 12 pounders, seven long 9 pounders, six 18 pound columbiads. Total 86 guns. T. MACDONOUGH Statement of the Enemy's force engaged on the Wth of Sejitember, 1814. Frigate Confiance, twenty-seven long 24 pounders, four 32 pound carronades, six 24 pound car- ronades, and two long 18 pounders on the birth deck 39 Brig Linnet, Sixteen long twelve pounders - 16 Sloop Chub,* ten 18 pound carronades, one long 6 pounder - - - - 11 Sloop Finch, * six 18 pound carronades, one 18 pound columbiad, and four long 6 pounders - 11 Thirteen galleys, viz.— Sir James Yeo, Sir George Prevost, Sir Sidney Beckwilh, one long 24. pounder, and one 32 lb. carronade each - 6 Broke, one 18 pounder, and one 32 lb. carronade - 2 Murry, one 18 pounder, and one IS lb. carronade - 2 Wellington, Tecumseh, and one other, name un- known, one 18 pounder each 3 Drummond, Simcoe and 3 others, names un- known, one 32 lb carronade each - - -5 Total, guns, 95 Recapitulation — thirty long 24 pounders, seven 18 pounders, sixteen 12 pounders, five 6 pounders, thir- teen 32 pound carronades, six 21 pound ca rronades, * These Bluops were formerly the U. S. Growler and Eagle. NAVAL MONUMENT. 151 seventeen 18 pound carronades, one 18 pound colum- T. MACDONOUGH biad. Total 95 guns COPY OF A LETTER FROM LIEUT. CASSIN TO C03I. MACDO- NOUGH. U. S. Schooner Ticonderoga, Plattsburg Bay, Sir, September 12, 1814. It is with pleasure I state, that every officer and man under my command did their duty yesterday. Your's respectfully, Com. T. Macdonough. STEPHEN CASSIN, Lieut, commanding. COPY OF A LETTER FROM LIEUT. HENLEY TO COM. MAC- DONOUGH. Sir, U. S. Brig Eagle, Plattsburg, Sept. 12, 1814. I am happy to inform you that all my officers and men acted bravely, and did their duty in the battle of yesterday with the enemy. I shall have the pleasure of making a more partic- ular representation of the respective merits of my gal- lant officers to the honorable the secretary of the navy. I have the honor to be, respectfully, Sir, your most obedient servant, R. HENLEY. P. S. We had 39 round shot in our hull (mostly 24 pounders) 4 in our lower masts — and we were well peppered with grape. I enclosed my boatswain's report. R. 11. COPY OF A LETTER FROM GEORGE BEALE, JR. TO COM. MACDONOUGH. Sir, U. S. Ship Saratoga Sept. 13, 1814. I have the honor to enclose you a list of the killed and wounded on board the different vessels of the squadron under your command, in the action of the 11th inst. 152 NAVAL MONUMENT. It is impossible to ascertain correctly the loss of the enemy. From the best information received from the British officers, from my own observations, and from various lists found on board the Con fiance, I calculate the number of men on board that ship at the commencement of the action at 270, of whom at least 180 were killed and wounded, and on board the other captured vessels at least 80 more, making in the whole, killed and wounded, 260. This is doubtless short of the real number, as many were thrown overboard from the Con fiance during the engagement. The muster books must have been thrown overboard, or otherwise disposed of, as they are not to be found. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, GEORGE BEALE, jr. Purser. Com. T. Macdonough. List of British officers captured on the llth Sep- tember, on Lake Champlain, and sent to Greenbush. Capt. Daniel Pring, on parole ; Lieutenants Hicks, Creswick, Robinson, M'Glie, Drew, Hornby, Child, and Fitzpatrick ; Sailing Master Bryden ; Masters' Mates Clark and Simmonds ; Surgeon Todd ; Purser Gile ; Captain's Clerk Guy ; Midshipmen Aire, Bou- dell, Toorke, Kewstra ; Davidson, boatswain ; Elvin, gunner ; Mickell, gunner ; Cox, carpenter ; Parker, purser; Martin, surgeon; M'Cabe, assistant surgeon. COPY OF A LETTER FROM COM. MACDONOUGH TO BRIG. GEN. MACOMB. U. S. Shijy Saratoga, off Plattsburg, Dear Sir, September 13, 1814. J 'mcloscd is a copy of a letter from Capt. White Youngs, and a list of killed and wounded attached to his command. I beg leave to recommend Capt. Youngs to your particular notice; during the action his conduct was such as to meet with my wannest approbation. I feel much indebted to him for his personal valor and 153 NAVAL MONUMENT. ■J example of coolness and intrepidity to his own men, as well as to the sailors. He volunteered in a sinking boat to carry my order to the gallics, for close action, in the hottest part of it ; and supplied the guns with his men as fast as the sailors were disabled. I am with much respect and esteem, your obedient servant, Brig. Gen. Macomb, T. MACDONOUGH. of U. S. army. LETTER FROM GEN. MACOMB TO THE SEcV OF WAR. Capt. Youngs of the 15th, is an officer of distin- guished merit, and has conducted himself with the greatest propriety on board the fleet. By his exam- ple and attention we have been able to keep the fleet manned from the line, which has been the means of contributing to the result of the naval engagement ; I therefore recommend him to the particular notice of the war department. September 18, 1814. ALEX. MACOMB. COPY OF A LETTER FROM GAPT. YOUNGS TO COM. MACDO- NOUGH. United States Ship Saratoga Lake Champlain, . Sir, September 14, 1814. I have the honor of encloseing to you a list of killed and wounded troops of the line (acting marines on board the squadron, Lake Champlain) in the action of the 11th instant. In attempting to do justice to the brave officers and men I have had the honor to command, my feeble abil- ities fall far short of my wishes— First Lieut. Mor- rison, 33d infantry, stationed on board the U. S brig Eagle, was wounded, but remained on deck during the action, animating his men by his honorable con- duct. Second Lieut. James Young, 6th infantry, on board the U. S. schooner, Ticonderoga, merits my warmest thanks : I would particularly recommend him to your notice. Second Lieut. William B. Howell, 15th infantry in the U. S. ship, Saratoga, rendered me every 20 NAVAL MONUMENT. 154" assistance ; notwithstanding bis having been confined for ten days of a fever, yet, at the commencement of the action, he was found on deck, and continued un- til the enemy had struck, when he was borne to his bed. I would also recommend him to your notice. The conduct of the non-commissioned officers and privates was so highly honorable to their country and themselves, it would be superfluous to particularize them. I have the honor to be, Sir, your obedient servant, Com. T. Macdonough, &c. WHITE YOUNGS, Capt. 15th Inf. com'ing detach, of acting marines. COPY OF A LETTER FROM LIEUT. HENLEY TO THE SECRE- TARY OF THE NAVY. Sir, U. S. Ship Eagle, off Plattsburg, Sept. 10, 1814. Permit me to make you acquainted with that part of the action of yesterday, which was particularly borne by the vessel which I have the honor to command, as it may not appear in the official report of Capt. Mac- donough, whose duty it is to make a true and impartial statement of facts. Being at anchor in the harbor of Plattsburg, in a line north and south, at the distance of about 100 yards the Eagle north, the Saratoga in the centre, and the Ticonteroga south, the enemy approached, in a line a breast, with a favorable wind, which enabled him to choose his position ; his brig taking her station on the stabord bow of the Eagle, at the distance of about a mile, his ship about one point abaft her [the Eagle's] beam, and the sloop Linnet, of 11 guns, making an effort to obtain a raking position under our stern. Perceiving the object of the sloop, I ordered her a broadside, which compelled her immediately to strike her colours. At the moment when the enemy's ship had ap- proached within point-blank distance, the Eagle com- menced upon her a most destructive lire of her whole NAVAL MONUMENT- 155 broadside, excepting the two long 18s forward, which were occasionally discharged at the enemy's brig, who frequently relieved her position and kept up a ra- king and most destructive fire upon this vessel. I was confident that it was of the highest impor- tance, in order to insure success, to endeavour first to carry the enemy's ship. For a great length of time after the commencement of the action, the ship level- led her whole force upon the Eagle, dealing forth de- struction. After having sustained the severest of the action for more than one hour — having my springs shot away — many of my starboard guns disabled, and not being in a situation to bring one of them to bear upon either the enemy's ship or brig, I ordered the cable cut and cast the brig, taking an advantageous position a little south of the Saratoga, bringing my larboard broad- side to bear upon the ship, which was very soon com- pelled to haul down her colours. Our fire was now directed at the brig, which struck in the space of eight minutes, and our contest terminated in victory. We now turned our attention toward the gallies, some of which, it is believed, sunk, and the residue made their escape. The Eagle, was in too shattered a condition to pursue them. I have the honor to enclose the surgeon's report of the killed and wounded on board the Eagle, by which you will perceive there were 13 killed and 21 wounded, most of them severely : also a copy of the report of the meritorious conduct of my officers and men, which I made to Capt. Macdonough, for your information, and which he has since informed me he had lost. I have the honor to be, Sir, with high respect, your obe't serv't. ROBERT HENLEY. Another letter from Capt. Henley to the Secretary of war, of the above date, encloses his report of kil- led and wounded, and recommends Lieut. Joseph Smith, Acting Lieut. Spencer, Acting Sailing-master 156 NAVAL MONUMENT. Record, Acting Lieut. Loomis, Midshipmen Cham- berlain, Machesny and Tardy, Surgeon Stoddard, Volunteer Loomis, Mr. Smith the gunner, Mr. John- son the carpenter, Mr. Willson the boatswain, as having discharged their duties as became Americans. PARTICULARS. Com. Macdonough is the son of Dr. Macdonough, late of New-Castle county, state of Delaware. He was a midshipman under Com. Decatur, at Tripoli, and one of the gallant band that destroyed the Philadel- 2)hian. At the time of the battle on Lake Champlain, he was about 28 years of age. He is a religious man, as well as a hero, and prayed with his brave men on the morning of the victory. All the officers on board the commodore's ship were either killed or wounded. He was asked how he escaped amid such carnage, and replied, pointing to heaven, " There was a power above which determined the fate of man." He had repeatedly to work his own guns, when his men at them were shot and three times he was driven across the deck by splinters. At one time during the battle, Macdonough had all his sruns on one side but two dismounted, when he wore his ship. The enemy endeavouring to do the same, failed and gave us an opportunity to rake him. Our superior gunnery is again provided, as the enemy had two to one of ours killed or wounded ; and they had locks to their guns, which we had not The gallies did but little, and the enemy's gallics, which were distant spectators, pulled off when they saw their fleet was beaten. The battle was exceedingly obstinate ; the enemy fought gallantly ; but the superiority of our gunnery was irresistible. We fired much oftener than they did. All the vessels were much wrecked. The killed on both sides have a very unusual pro- portion to the wounded — on ours 52 to 58 ! This is perhaps unprecedented, and may serve to shew the warmth and closeness of the action. NAVAL MONUMENT. 157 In the hottest of the action, a cock in the commo- dore's ship Hew into the shrowds, and crowed three times! The crew seized the happy omen, and shout- ed victory ! This little incident must have had a powerful effect on the seamen. A sailor, who had been hard at work from the com- mencement until the conclusion of the fight, seeing the British flag lowered, with a smile on his counten- ance, addressed a companion, "Well, Jack, this is all the fun I have had this war," at the same time very leisurely wiping the sweat from his face. "I am more lucky," said the other, "fortius is the second Frolic* I have had !" The schooners Growler and Tigress, captured from us the year preceding, were desperately defended. When the former was towed into Plattsburg, she had only five men on board on their legs. The British loss was immense. On board the Confiance alone 160 were killed. Com. Downie fell in the early part of the action. Capt. Preng, who had been censured by Sir George Prevost, fought his brig 15 minutes after the other vessels had struck. The British certainly supposed that the battle would have terminated in their favor. It appears evident, that they expected to defeat our squadron, to proceed to the upper end of the lake, and to establish them- selves on shore. For this purpose they had provided heavy cannon for mounting, and put them on board their vessels to be landed and stationed after the en- gagement. Com. Macdonough found, on examining the prizes, concealed under the platform of the vessels where they served for ballast, 25 pieces, 6, 9, 12, and lGng 18 pounders, and a large quantity of grape and cannister shot — so happily diverted from their original purpose by the glorious victory of the 11th of Sep- tember. *He was with Capt. Jones at the taking of the Frolic. 158 NAVAL MONUMENT. LOSS OF THE PRESIDENT. COPY OF A LETTER FROM COM. DECATUR TO THE SEC- RETARY OF THE NAVY. H. B. M. Ship Endymion, at sea, Sir, January IS, 181 4. The painful duty of detailing to you the particular causes which preceded and led to the capture of the late United States frigate President, by a squadron of his Britannic Majesty's ships (as per margin) has devolved upon me. In my communication of the 14th, I made known to you my intention of proceeding to sea on the evening. Owing to some mistake of the pilot, the ship in going out grounded on the bar, where she continued' to strike heavily for an hour and a half: although she had broken several of her rudder braces, and had received such other material injury as to ren- der her return into port desirable, I was unable to, do so from the strong westerly wind which was then blowing. It being now high water, it became neces- sary to force her over the bar before the tide fell ; in this we succeeded by 10 o'clock, when we shaped our course along the shore of Long-Island for 50 miles, and then steered S. E. by E. At 5 o'clock, three ships were discovered ahead : w r e immediately hauled up the ship, and passed two miles to the northward of them. At daylight we discovered four ships in chase, one on each quarter, and two astern, the leading ship of the enemy a razee. She commenced a fire upon us, but without effect. At meridian the wind became light and baffling ; we had increased our distance from the razee, but the next ship astern, which was also a large ship, had gained and continued to gain upon us con- siderable ; we immediately occupied all hands to ligh- ten ship, by starting water, cutting away the an- chors, throwing overboard provisions, cables, spare spars, boats, andevery article that could be got at, keep- ing the sails wet from the royals down. At 3, we NAVAL MONUMENT. 159 had the wind quite light ; the enemy, who had now been joined by a brig, had a strong breeze, and were coining up with us rapidly. The Endipnion (moun- ting 50 guns, 24 pounders on the main deck) had now approached us within gun-shot, and had commenced a lire with her bow guns, which we returned from our stern. At 5 o'clock, she had obtained a position on our starboard quarter, within half point-blank shot, on which neither our stern nor quarter guns would bear ; we were now steering E. by N. the wind N. W. I remained with her in this position for half an hour, in the hope that she would close with us on our broad- side, in which case I had prepared my crew to board ; but from his continuing to yaw his ship to maintain his position, it became evident that to close was not his intention. Every fire now cut some of our sails or rigging. To have continued our course under these circumstances, would have been placing it in his pow- er to cripple us, without being subject to injury him- self; and to have hauled up more to the northward to bring our stern guns to bear, would have exposed us to his raking fire. It was now dusk, when I determin- ed to alter my course south, for the. purpose of bring- ing the enemy abeam, and although their ships astern were drawing up fast, I felt satisfied I should be enabled to throw him out of the combat before they could come up, and was not without hopes, if the night proved dark, (of which there was every appear- ance) that I might still be enable to effect my escape. Our opponant kept off at the same instant we did, and our fire commenced at the same time. We con- tinued engaged, steering south, with steering sails set, two hours and a half, when we completely succeeded in dismantling her. Previously to her dropping en- tirely out of the action, there were intervals of minutes, when the ships were broadside and broadside, in which she did not fire a gun. At this period, (half past 8 o'clock) although dark, the other ships of the squad- ron were in sight, and almost within gun-shot. We were of course compelled to abandon her. In resu- 160 NAVAL MONUMENT. ming our former course for the purpose of avoiding the squadron, we were compelled to present our stern to our antagonist — but such was his state, though we were thus exposed and within range of his guns for half an hour, that, he did not avail himself of this fa- vorable opportunity of raking us. We continued this course until 11 o'clock when two fresh ships of the en- emy (the Pomone and Tenedos) had come up. The Pomone had opened her fire on the larboard bow, with- in musket shot ; the other about two cables' length astern, taking a raking position on our quarter ; and the rest (with the exception of the Endymion) within gun-shot. Thus situated, With about one fifth of my crew killed and wounded, my ship crippled, and a more than four-fold force opposed to me, without a chance of escape left, I deemed it my duty to sur- render. It is with emotions of pride I bear testimony to the gallantry and steadiness of every officer and man I had the honor to command on this occasion ; and I feel satisfied that the fact of their having beaten a force equal to themselves, in the presence and almost under the guns of so vastly a superior force, when, too, it was almost self-evident, that whatever their exer- tions might be, they must ultimately be captured, will be taken as evidence of what they would have per- formed, had the force opposed to them been in any de- gree equal. It is with extreme pain I have to inform you that Lieutenants Babbit, Hamilton, and Howell fell in the action. They have left no officers of superior merit behind them. If, Sir, the issue of this affair had been fortunate, I should have felt it my duty to have recommended to your attention Lieutenants Shubric and Gallagher. They maintained throughout the day the reputation they had acquired in former actions. Lieut. Twiggs, of the marines, displayed great zeal, his men were well supplied and their fire incompara- NAVAL MONUMENT. 161 ble, so long as the enemy continued within musket range. Midshipman Randolph, who had charge of the forecastle division, managed it to my entire satisfac- tion. From Mr. Robinson, who was serving as a volun- teer, I received essential aid, particularly after I was deprived of the services of the master, and the severe loss I had sustained in my officers on the quarter deck. Of our loss in killed and wounded, I am unable at present to give you a correct statement ; the attention of the surgeon being so entirely occupied with the wounded, that he was unable to make out a correct return when I left the President ; nor shall I be able to make it until our arrival in port, we having parted company with the squadron yesterday. The enclosed list, with the exception, I fear, of its being short of the number, will be found correct. For 24< hours after the action, it was nearly calm ; and the squadron were occupied in repairing the crip- pled ships. Such of the crew of the President as were not badly wounded, were put on board the dif- ferent ships : myself and a part of my crew were put on board this ship. On the 17th we had a gale from the eastward, when this ship lost her bowsprit, fore and main-masts and mizen top-mast, all of which were badly wounded, and was in consequence of her disabled condition, obliged to throw overboard all her upper deck guns. Her loss in killed and wounded must have been very great. I have not been able to ascertain the extent. Ten were buried after I came on board (36 hours after the action) ; the badly woun- ded, such as are obliged to keep their cots, occupy the starboard side of the gun deck from the cabin bulk-head to the main-mast. From the crippled state of the President's spars, I feel satisfied she could not have saved her masts, and I feel serious apprehensions for the safety of our wounded left on board. It is due to Capt. Hope to state, that every atten - i 162 NAVAL MONUMENT. tion has been paid by him to myself and officers who have been placed on board his ship, that delicacy and humanity could dictate. I have the honor to be, with much respect, Sir, your obedient servant, STEPHEN DECATUR. Hon. B. W. Crownincsiiield, Secretary of the navy. British squadron referred to in the letter. Majestic (razee,) Endymion, Pomone, Tenedos, Despatch (brig). List of killed and wounded on board the United States Frigate President. Killed — Lieutenants F. H. Babbit, and twenty two seamen. Wounded — Sailing-Master Rogere, Mr. Robin- son, Midshipmen Dale and Brewster, Master's Mate Parker, and fifty seamen. FURTHER PARTICULARS. When the President first saw the British ships at day light, directly astern of her, and knowing them of course to be enemies, crowded all sail to escape — but owing to the misfortune which she sustained the night before of beating on the bar, off New- York, being deeply laden with water and provisions for a long cruise, and not having her proper trim, the ene- my's leading ship the Endymion, succeeded in getting close along side of her, and brought her to action about sun-set. Both ships were under a press of sail. The Endymion was disabled and silenced, and the President, when she finally struck to the Pomone and Tenedos, was carrying royal studding sails, still en- deavoring to effect her escape. Remaining two hours on the bar was the primary cause of the lost of this noble ship — for had she pas- sed over without difficulty, she would have been out of sight of the British ships before day-light. NAVAL MONUMENT. 163 The President, after her capture, lost all her masts by the board in a violent gale of wind, and arrived at Bermuda under jury masts, on the 28th of January, just a fortnight from the date of her sailing from New- York. The Endymion arrived two days before, with the loss of her fore and main-masts, (considerably above deck by wounds) and bowsprit. The Endymion' s loss, according to the report of the British officers, was 11 killed and 14 wounded. Our brave commodore received a severe contusion on the breast, which knocked him down, but he soon recovered. The lamented Lieut. Babbit, 1st of the President, was from Brookfield, Mass. He was mortally woun- ded early in the action by a round shot in the thigh, which shattered it so dreadfully, that he expired in about an hour. He was in his 25th year, and was justly esteemed one of the best officers in the service. Lieut. Hamilton, 4th, served on the gun-deck, and was instantaneously killed towards the close of the action, by a 241b. shot, which struck him in the ab- domen, and cut him in pieces. He was the son of Paul Hamilton, Esq. of South Carolina, late secre- tary of the navy, and was a youth of such gentleman- ly deportment, and amiable manners, as to win and retain the esteem of all who knew him. He was a great favorite in the navy, and will be long affection- ately remembered by many, both in and out of the service. Mr. Hamilton was a midshipman on board the United States, when that ship took the Macedo- nian, and was the officer, who had the honor of bear- ing her colors to the city of Washington. Lieut. Howell, 5th, lost his life by a splinter, which struck him on the head and fractured his scull. He was from New-Jersey, and was, like Hamilton, a most excellent and exemplary youth. In that trying engagement, the crew of the Presi- dent behaved most nobly. The marines in particular, under Lieut. Twigs, acquitted themselves with the highest honor. 161 NAVAL MONUMENT. However we may lament the loss of the brave men, who fell in this contest, the services of those wounded or carried into captivity, or of the vessel herself, we re- joice that our naval glory remains untarnished, and that this capture of Decatur, like Porter's, will add to his own fame, and the renown of his country. In the Bermuda paper of the 3d of April, is inser- ted a corespondence between the governor of those is- lands, and Mr. Ward, the editor of the Royal Gazette, which closes on the part of the governor by withdraw- ing from that paper its title of Royal Gazette, and from Mr. Ward the office of his Majesty's printer. The governor appears to have been determined in this course by the pertinacious adherance of Mr. Ward to a false statement, published in his paper, of the circum- stances attending the capture of the United States frigate President, which statement was at first cor- rected by him, but afterwards re-asserted and adhered to. The Editor, in giving the reports of the capture, stated, among other things, that the President struck to the Endymion; and that after the President struck, Com. Decatur concealed 68 men in the hold of the President, for the purpose of rising on the prize crew, and recapturing her. On the appearance of this account, Capt. Hope, of the Endymion, immedi- ately sent an officer to Com. Decatur, disclaiming any participation in the article ; and the governor of the island demanded of the editor of the Gazette, that he should immediately contradict the statement ; which was complied with. The editor then repeats, that the retraction spoken of was inserted merely as an act of generosity, and a palliative for the irritated feelings of prisoners of war. He had previously declared that he had, "subsequent- ly to the publication of the retracting article, ascer- tained, that the original statement was correct ; and we do not (he says) hesitate unequivocally to declare, upon the best authority, that 68 men were concealed on board the President, and from other information we NAVAL MONUMENT. 165 have obtained, we are convinced the act was authorized by Com. Decatur." Immediately on the- appearance of the above re- marks, the governor of Bermuda directed a letter, of which the following are extracts, to be sent to the editor. EXTRACTS FROM AN OFFICIAL LETTER FROM C COOPER ESQ. PRIVATE SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR AXD COMMANDER IN CHIEF. Sir, Government-House, Bermuda, April 15, 1815. In your paper of Thursday last, which calls for his excellency's animadversion, you have ventured to as- sert, that your publication in contradiction to your or- iginal paragraph above alluded to, was issued in con- sequence of your having been " requested to smooth it over ;" and you "go on to insinuate that the state- ment contradicted was " founded in truth." It is im- possible for his excellency to permit such a direct and positive misrepresentation to stand uncontradicted, and more especially as his excellency himself commu- nicated to you Capt. Hope's pointed declaration, that there was not the slightest foundation whatsoever for the assertion which you had published, and that he him- self and every officer in his majesty's service, felt the utmost indignation and regret at the wanton insult of- fered thereby to an enemy, who then being a prisoner under the protection of the British flag, was entitled to peculiar marks of delicacy and attention, of which Capt. Hope, with the nicety of honourable feeling, natural to an officer of the British navy, had felt so truly sensible, as to have sent a brother officer the moment the indecorous paragraph referred to met his eye, to express to Com. Decatur his indignation and regret at its having appeared. His excellency at the same time stated to you his own opinion, and that of the officers of his majesty's service, that the reprehensible paragraph should be in- stantly and unequivocally contradicted, and not merely "smoothed over," as you have now thought proper to 166 NAVAL MONUMENT. declare ; though at the time you seem fully impressed with the propriety of contradicting a statement, which you had erroneously put forth, and of thereby making the only retrebution which it was then in your power to offer to those, whose characters had been so unjustly defamed. His excellency felt anxious that the disa- vowal to be published should be couched in terms the ledst disagreeable to your own feelings, or hurtful to the paper, of which you are the editor. His excellency has since seen with pain and regret, that you have subsequently, on more than one occa- sion, endeavored to retract the correction then made by you of your prior mis-statement, and to impress the readers of the Gazette with a belief, that your original statement was established in fact, though you had the highest authority, (that of Capt. Hope him- self,) for knowing it to be completely unfounded. These attempts his excellency has hither to passed over — but your publication of Thursday imposes it upon him as a duty to himself, to Capt. Hope, and to the British nation, and in common justice to Com. Decatur, who is not present to defend himself from the aspersion which you have cast upon him, of " ut- tering with reference to yourselves as base a falsehood as ever was imposed upon the world," not to admit of such a document standing uncontradicted in a paper, professed to be published under the immediate author- ity of his majesty's government. His excellency is thoroughly aware of the great im- portance of preserving to the utmost extent perfect freedom of dicussion, and the fullest liberty of the press, in every part of the British dominions, and un- doubtedly therefore nothing could be further from his intentions than the most distant desire to " compel a British editor to retract a statement founded in truth" — but when a statement is founded in falsehood, his excellency conceives it to be incumbent upon him, equally in duty to the British public and in support ot the true character of the British press, to demand that that falsehood, whether directed against friend or foe, NAVAL MONUMENT. 167 should be instantly contradicted, or that the paper which thinks fit to disgrace its columns by persevering in error, should no longer be distinguished by the royal protection — and I am therefore commanded to signify to you his excellency's desire, that your ensu- ing publication may contain a due and respectful con- tradiction of those parts of your comments upon Com. Decatur's letter, which have now called for his excel- lency's censure, or his excellency will feel it his boun- den duty to remove you from the office of his majes- ty's printer, which now gives a degree of weight to observations contained in your paper, to which other- wise they might not be entitled. I have the honor to be, Sif, your obedient servant, C. COOPER, Private Sec'y Edmund Ward, Esq. Editor of the Royal Gazette, Bermuda. EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COM. DECATUR TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. . Neto York, March 6, 1815. In my official letter of January 18, I omitted to state, that a considerable number of my killed and wounded was from the fire of the Pomone, and that the Endymion had on board, in addition to her own crew, 1 lieutenant, 1 master's mate, and 50 seamen, belonging to the Satiwn, and when the action ceased, was left motionless and unmanageable until she bent new sails, rove new rigging, and fished her spars ; nor did she join the squadron until six hours after the ac- tion, ancl three hours after the surrender of the Presi- dent. My sword was delivered to Capt. Hays, of the Majestic, the senior officer of the squadron, on his quarter deck, which he with great politeness immedi- ately returned. I have the honor to enclose to you my parole, by which you will perceive the British ad- mit the President was captured by the squadron. I should have deemed it unnecessary to have drawn your attention to this document, had not the fact been 168 NAVAL MONUMENT. stated differently in the Bermuda Gazette, on our ar- rival there ; which statement, however, the editor was compelled to retract, through the interference of the governor and some of the British officers of the squad- ron. The great assiduity of Dr. Trevett and Surgeon's Mates Dix and VVickes to the wounded, merits the highest approbation. The only officer badly wound- ed is Midshipman Richard Dale, who lost a leg, a circumstance to be particularly regretted, as he is a young man possessed of every quality to make a dis- tinguished officer. I have the honor to be, &c. STEPHEN DECATUR. The following extract from a Bermuda paper was republished at New York, in the Commercial Adver- tiser. " On Wednesday evening last, Mr. Randolph, of the United States navy, late of the President frigate, in company with some other officers of the ship, at- tacked the editor of the Royal Gazette in a most violent and unprovoked manner, with a stick, while he was walking unarmed. The timely arrival of some British officers prevented his proceeding to further acts of violence. A guard shortly after came up, when the offender had decamped ; and the next morning, we understand, he was hoisted into a boat at the crane, from the market wharf, and absconded — an honourable way truly for an officer to quit a place, where he had been treated with civility and polite- ness." The folloiving is a letter from Mr. Randolph to the editors of the Commercial Advertiser. JVeiv York, April 3, 1815. Messrs. Lewis &, Hall, Having observed in your paper of Saturday last, an extract from the Bermuda Gazette, containing a false and scandalous account of an affair in which 1 had an NAVAL MONUMENT. 169 agency, 1 send you for publication the subjoined state- ment, which I declare to be correct. As soon as I read the scurrilous remarks in the Royal Gazette of the 15th ult. in relation to the cap- ture of the late U. S. frigate President, I walked to the King's Square, with a determination to chastise the editor. I soon fell in with him and executed my purpose, in the most ample and satisfactory manner. There was no American officer in company, except Midshipman Emmet. Mr. Ward, the editor, was at- tended by Lieut. Sammon, of the royal navy ; but by neither of these officers was I interrupted or assisted in the operation. Having previously obtained my passport, and being advised that'the editor of the Royal Gazette was ta- king measures to employ the civil authority against me, I left the Island the next day, for the United States. I am gentlemen, Slc. *Slc. R. B. RANDOLPH, Midshipman, Late of the United States frigate President. Copy of a letter from Com. Alexander Murray, president of a court of inquiry, held at JSTeiv York, to investigate the causes of the capture of the United States frigate President, to the Secretary of the navy. "Sir, New York, April 17, 1815. "I herewith transmit to you the result of the court of inquiry, respecting the capture of the frigate Pres- ident, with the opinion of the court. " We have been more minute in our investigation than might, at first view, have been deemed necessary ; but as there has been a diversity of opinion prevailing ^among the British commanders, concerned in her cap- ture, it was desirable in our view, to lay before the world, in the most correct manner, every circum- stance, that led to that event ; which has afforded another high proof of American heroism, and so high- ly honorable to her commander, officers and crew, 99 170 NAVAL MONUMENT. that every American citizen must feel a pride in know- ing that our flag has been so nobly defended." The minutes of the court having been read and ap- proved, the court was cleared, and after due deliber- ation, resolved to express the sentiments and opinions of the members, on the matters submitted to them, as follows : " In the execution of the orders of honorable the secretary of the navy, we have (with the exception of two very young midshipmen) examined every officer belonging to the President, within the reach of the court, who survived the late glorious contest between the frigate President and a squadron of his Britannic majesty. " We are of opinion, that the primary cause of the loss of the President was her running on the bar, as she was leaving this port. The violence and the con- tinuance of the shocks she received for an hour and a half or more, considering that she was laden with stores and provisions for a very long cruise, could not but have injured her greatly, and must have impeded her sailing. Her hogged and twisted appearance af- ter she arrived at Bermuda, must have been the effects of this unfortunate accident. We are convinced, that it was owing to this that the enemy were able to over- take her. " The striking of the President on the bar cannot be imputed to the fault of any officer who was at- tached to her. On the contrary, we think every possi- ble precaution was taken, and the utmost exertions were used by her commander and officers, to insure her safe passage over the bar, and to relieve her after she had struck. The accident was occasioned by some mistake in placing the boats, which were to serve as beacons to the President, through a channel always dangerous for a vessel of her draught, but par- ticularly so at such a time as she was obliged to select for passing it, when the land marks could not be dis- tinguished. " From the time that the superiority of the enemy's NAVAL MONUMENT. 171 force was ascertained, and it became the duty of the President to evade it, we are convinced, that the most proper measures were pursued, and that she made every possible effort to escape. No means, in our opin- ion, were so likely to be attended with success, as those which were adopted by Com. Decatur. Any suggestion, that different measures would have been more proper or more likely to accomplish the object, we think, are without foundation, and may be the re- sult of ignorance or the dictates of a culpable ambi- tion, or of envy. We consider the management of the President, from the time the chase commenced till her surrender, as the highest evidence of the experience, skill, and re- sources of her commander, and of the ability and sea- manship of her officers and crew. We fear that we cannot express, in a manner that will do justice to our feelings, our admiration of the conduct of Com. De- catur, and his officers and crew, while engaged with the enemy, threatened with a force so superior, poses- sing advantages, which must have appeared to render all opposition unavailing, otherwise than might affect the honor of our navy, and the character of our sea- men. They fought with a spirit, which no prospect of success could have heightened, and if victory had met its common reward, the Endymion' s name would have been added to our list of naval conquests. In this unequal conflict the enemy, gained a ship, but the vic- tory was ours. When the President was obliged to leave the Endymion to avoid the other ships, which were fast coming up, the Endymion was subdued ; and if her friends had not been at hand to rescue her, she was so entirely disabled, that she soon must have struck her flag. A proof of this is, that she made no attempt to pursue the President,or to annoy her by a single shot, while the President was within her reach, when, with the hope of escape from the over- whelming force, which was nearly upon her, the President presented her stern to the Endymion's broadside. A farther proof that the Endymion was 172 NAVAL MONUMENT. conquered is, the shattered condition in which she ap- peared, while the President, in the contest with her, had sustained but little injury ; and the fact, that the Endymion did not join her squadron till many hours after the President had been. surrounded by the other four enemy ships, and had surrendered to them, is strong corroborative evidence of the disabled state in which the President left the Endymion. "We think it due to Com. Decatur and his heroic officers and crew, to notice the proposition he made to board the Endymion, when he found she was coming up, and the manner in which this position was receiv- ed by his gallant crew. " Such a design, at such a time, could only be con- ceived by a soul without fear, and approved with en- thusiastic cheering by men regardless of danger. Had not the enemy perceived the attempt, and availed himself of the power he had in the early part of the action to shun the approach of the President, the American stars might now be shining on the Endymi- on. In the subsequent part of the engagement, the enemy's squadron was too near to permit the execu- tion of this design, and the disabled state of the Endy- mion would have frustrated the principal object which Com. Decatur had in making so bold an attempt, which was to avail himself of the Endymion's superi- or sailing to escape with his crew from his pursuers. "We conclude by expressing our opinion, that Com. Decatur, as well during the chase, as through his contest with the enemy, evinced great judgment and skill, perfect coolness, the most determined reso- lution and heroic courage — that his conduct, and the conduct of his officers and crew, are highly honora- ble to them, and to the American navy, and deserve the warmest gratitude of their country — that they did not give up their ship till she was surrounded and overpowered by a force so superior, that further re- sistance would have been unjustifiable, and a useless sacrifice of the lives of brave men. " The order of the secretary of the navy requires us NAVAL MONUMENT. 173 to express an opinion as to the conduct of the officers and crew of the President after the capture. The testimony of all the witnesses concurs in enabling us to give it our decided approbation. By the Court. "ALEX. MURRAY, President. "Codwalader D. Colden, Judge Advocate. Approved, 13. W. Crowningshield." "April 20, 1815. LETTER FROM THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY TO COJI. DECATUR. Sir, Navy Department, April 20, 1815. In the course of official duty, it is my highest sat- isfaction to. render justice to the gallantry and good conduct of the brave officers and seamen of the United States navy. In giving an official sanction to the recent proceed- ings of the court of inquiry, instituted at your request, to investigate the cause of the loss by capture of the frigate President, late of the navy of the United States, while under your command ; and to inquire into the conduct of the commander, officers, and crew of said frigate, before and after the surrender to the enemy ; it. would be equally unjust to your merit, as well as to my sentiments and feeling, to pass over this investigation with a formal approbation. I have there- fore, sir, to express to you, in the fullest manner, the high sense of approbation, which the President, of the United States and this department entertain for your professional character as an officer, who, in every in- stance has added lustre to the stars of the union ; and whose brilliant actions have raised the national honor and fame, even in the moment of surrendering your ship to an enemy's squadron of vastly superior force, over whose attack, singly, you were decidedly trium- phant ; and you "will be pleased to present to each of your gallant officers and crew, the thanks of your government, for their brave defence of the ship, and the flag of the United States. 174 NAVAL MONUMENT. The proceedings and opinions of the court of inqui- ry, of which Com. Alexander Murray is president, are approved. B. W. CP.OWNINGSIIIELD. Com. Stephen Decatur. CONSTITUTION AND CYANE & LEVANT. LETTER FR03I LIEUT. HOFFMAN TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. His Britannic Majesty's late ship Ci/ane. Sir, JVew-York, April' 10, 1815. I have the honor to inform you that on the evening of the 28th of February last, while cruising off Ma- deira, the United States frigate Constitution fell in with His Britannic Majesty's ships Cyane and Le- vant, which she captured after an action of 40 min- utes. The Cyane is a frigate built ship, mounting 34 car- riage guns, viz. twenty-two 321b. carronades on the main deck, eight 181b. carronades on the quarter deck, two 181b. carronades and two long 9s on the forecas- tle, and from the best information I could obtain, car- rying a complement of 175 men, commanded by Cor- don Falcon, Esq.; the Levant mounting twenty-one carriage guns, viz. eighteen 241b. carronades, two long 0s and a shifting 12 pounder on the top-gal- lant forecastle, with a complement of 150 men, com- manded by the Hon. George Douglas — both ships suffered severely in their spars, rigging and sails. The Constitution received but trifling injury, having only 4 men killed and 10 wounded. As to the loss of the enemy, I cannot possibly ascertain, but should presume it was very severe. On the 9th of March the Constitution, with her two prizes in company, anchored off the Isle of May, (one of the Cape dc Verd Islands.) On the 10th at 5 A. 31. got under way and made sail for St. Jago, NAVAL MONUMENT. 175 where we anchored at 45 minutes past 10. On the 12th, at half past meridian, discovered three sail in the otling — at 10 minutes past 1, made them to be frigates — at which time the Constitution made signal to get under way. At 20 minutes past 1, cut our cable and made sail to the southward and eastward, close on a wind. At 30 minutes past 1, the forts on shore com- menced firing on us. At 2, the Constitution made signal to tack, which I did to the northward and west- ward. At 5 minutes past 2, the sternmost frigate commenced firing on us, and hoisted English colors, distance about 2 miles. At 20 minutes past 2, lost sight of the Constitution and Levant, who were stan- ding on a wind to the southward and eastward ; the frigates in chase. At 35 minutes past 2, lost sight of the enemy. At 3, heard a heavy cannonading, which continued at intervals until half past 4. At sun-down shaped my course for the United States. For the further particulars of our cruise, I beg to refer you to Capt. Stewart's official account, on his arrival in the United States. I cannot conclude my letter without particularly recommending to your notice Midshipman Joseph Cross, for whose unremitted attention and exertions I feel myself greatly indebted ; and he is a young man who, I think, would do honor to a commission. As to Midshipmen James Delany, and James F. Curtis, and the few men I have under my command, words would be insufficient to express my gratitude towards them. Very respectfully, I have the honor to be, * your obedient servant, B. V. HOFFMAN. COPY OF A LETTER FROM LIEUT. BALLARD TO THE SEC- RETARY OF THE NAVY. Sir, Baltimore, May 2, 1815. I have the honor to make known to you my arrival at this place with a part of the officers and crew of the United States frigate Constitution, captured in a prize, 176 NAVAL MONUMENT. the Levant, in the harbor of Port-Fraya, in the Isl- and of St. Jago, by a squadron of his Britannc Ma- jesty's ships, consisting of the Leander, Sir George Collier ; the Newcastle, Lord George Stuart ; and the dcasta, Capt. Kerr. For the particulars of my recapture, I beg leave to refer you to the enclosed ex- tract from the log-book of the Levant. Having caused the destruction of my own papers, as well as those of the officers with me, I can only say to you relative to the Constitution, that, after leaving the port of Boston, she successively cruised off the Islands of Bermuda and Madeira, in the Bay of Bis- cay, and for some time in si^ht of the Rock of Lis- bon, without having met with but two of the enemy's vessels, one of which was destroyed, the other ordered in ; and that, on the evening of the 20th February, the Island of Madeira bearing W. S. W. distant 70 leagues, fell in with, engaged, and after a close ac- tion of 40 minutes, captured his Britannic Majesty's ships Cijane, Capt. Gordon Falcon, and Levant, Hon. Capt. Douglass. It would, sir, be deemed presumption in me to at- tempt to give you particular details respecting the na- ture of this action. I shall, therefore, only remark generally, that, every officer, seaman and marine on board did their duty. I cannot, however, deny my- self the pleasure, that this opportunity affords me, of noticing the brilliant management of Capt. Charles Stewart, through whose unerring judgment every at- tempt of an ingenious enemy to gain a raking position was frustrated. I have the honor to be, very respectfully, Sir, your obedient servant, HENRY E. BALLARD. The Cyane mounted on her main deck twenty-two 321b. carronades — on her upper decks, ten 181b. car- ronades, two long 9s, and one 121b. carronade on a travelling carriage, with a complement of 175 men. The Levant mounted eighteen 321b. carronades, two NAVAL MONUMENT. 177 long 9s, and one 121b. carronade, with 13S men on board. The Constitution had 4 killed and 10 wound- ed — the Cyane 7 killed and 17 wounded — the Levant 9 killed and 17 wounded. COPY OF A LETTER FROM CAPTAIN STEWART TO THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY. Sir, U. S. Frigate Constitution, May — , 1815. On the 20th of February last, the Island of Ma- deira bearing about W. S. W. distant 60 leagues, we fell in with His Britannic Majesty's two ships of war, the Cyane and Levant, and brought them to action about 6 o'clock in the evening, both of which, after a spirited engagement of 40 minutes, surrendered to the ship under my command. Considering the advantages derived by the enemy, from a divided and more active force, as also their superiority in the weight and number of guns, I deem ' the speedy and decisive result of this action the stron- gest assurance which can be given to the government, that all under my command did their duty, and gal- lantry supported-the reputation of American seamen. Enclosed you will receive the minutes of the action, and a list of the killed and wounded on board this ship ; also enclosed you will receive for your infor- mation a statement of the actual force of the enemy, and the number killed and wounded on board their ships, as near as could be ascertained. I have the honor to remain, very respectfully, Sir, your most obedient servant, CHARLES STEWART, Statement of the actual force of His Britannic Maj- esty's ships Levant, Ccipt. the Hon. George Doug- lass commander — and Cyane, Capt. Gordon Falcon commander ; with the number killed and wounded on board each ship, on the 20th Feb. 1815, a t s near as could be ascertained, while engaged with the United States Frigate Constitution: — Levant — Eighteen 32 pounders, carronades ; one 23 178 NAVAL MONUMENT. 12 pounder, do.; two 9 pounders, long guns. Total 21 guns, 156 officers, seamen, and marines. Prison- ers, 133 officers, seamen and marines. Killed, 23; wounded, 1(3. Total killed and wounded, 39. Cyane — Twenty-two 32 pounders, carronades ; ten 18 pounders, do.; two 12 pounders, long guns. Total 34 guns (besides 2 brass swivels,) 150 officers, sea- men, and marines. Prisoners, 168 officers, seamen, and marines. Killed, 27 ; wounded, 26. Total kil- led and wounded, 38. JMinutes of the action between the United Stales frig- ale Constitution and His Majesty's ships Cyane and Levant, on the 20th February, 1815. Commences with light breezes from the east, and cloudy weather. At 1 P. M. discovered a sail two points on the larboard bow — hauled up, and made sail in chase. At half past 1, made the sail to be a ship ; at half past 1, discovered another sail ahead ; made them out, at 2, to be both ships, standing close haul- ed, with their starboard tacks on board ; at 4, ihe weathermost ship made signals, and bore up for her consort, then about ten miles to leeward ; we bore up after her, and set lower top-mast, top-gallant and royal studding sails, in chase ; at half past 4, carried I away our main royal-mast ; took in the sails, and got another prepared. At 5, commenced firing on the chase from our two larboard bow guns ; our shot fal- ling short, ceased firing ; at half past 5, finding i impossible to prevent their junction, cleared ship fo action, then about 4 miles from the two ships : at 4 minutes past 5, they passed within hail of each other, and hauled by the wind on the starboard tack, haule up their courses, and prepared to receive us : at 45 min- utes past 5, they made all sail close hauled by the wind, in hopes of getting to windward of us : at 55 minutes past 5, finding themselves disappointed in their object, and we were closing with them fast, they shortened sail, and formed on a line of wind, about half a cable's length of each other : at 6, having them under com ; NAVAL MONUMENT. 179 mand of our battery, hoisted our colors, which was answered by both ships hoisting English ensigns : at 5 minutes past 6, ranged up on the starboard side of the sternmost ship, about 300 yards distant, and com- menced the action by broadsides, both ships returning our fire with great spirit for about 15 minutes ; then the fire of the enemy beginning to slacken, and the great column of smoke collected under our lee, induced us to cease our fire to ascertain their positions and condi- tions : in about three minutes, the smoke clearing away, we found ourselves abreast of the headmost ship, the sternmost ship luffed up for our larboard quarter ; we poured a broadside into the headmost ship, and then braced aback our main and mizen top- sails, and backed astern under cover of the smoke, abreast the sternmost ship, when the action was con- tinued with spirit and considerable effect, until 35 min- utes past 6, when the enemy's fire again slackened, and we discovered the headmost ship bearing up ; filled our top-sails, shot ahead, and gave her two stern rakes; we then discovered the sternmost ship wearing also ; wore ship immediately after her, and gave her a stern rake — she luffed to on our starboard bows, and gave us her larboard broadside : we ranged up on her larboard quarter, within hail, and were about to give her our starboard broadside, when she struck her colors, fired a lee gun, and yielded. At 50 minutes past 6, took possession of His Majesty's ship Cyane, Capt. Gordon Falcon, mounting 34 guns. At 8, filled away after her consort, which was still in sight to leeward. At £ past 8, found her standing towards us, with her star- board tacks close hauled, with top-gallant sails set, and colors flying. At 5 minutes past 8, ranged close along side to windward of her, on opposite tacks, and exchanged broadsides — wore immediately under her stern, and raked her with a broadside : she then crowd- ed all sail, and endeavored to escape by running— haul- ed on board our tacks, set spanker, and flying jib in chase. At £ past 9, commenced firing on her from our starboard bow chaser ; gave her several shot, which 180 NAVAL MONUMENT. cut her spars and rigging considerably. At 10, find- ing she could not escape, fired a gun, struck her col- ors, and yielded. We immediately took possession of His Majesty's ship Levant, Hon. Capt. George Douglass, mounting 21 guns. At 1 A. M. the dam- ages of our rigging were repaired, sails shifted, and the ship in fighting condition. Minutes of the chase of the U. S. frigate Constitution, by an English squadron of three ships, from out the harbor af Port Pray a, Island of St. Jago : — Commences with fresh breezes and thick foggy weather. At 5 minutes past 12, discovered a large ship through the fog, standing in for Port Praya. At 8 minutes past 12, discovered two other large ships astern of her, also standing in for the port. From their general appearance supposed them to be one of the enemy's squadrons, and from the little respect hitherto paid by them* to neutral waters, I deemed it most prudent to put to sea. The signal was made to the Cyane and Levant to get under way. At 12 min- utes past 12, with our topsails set, we cut our cable and got under way, (when the Portuguese opened a fire on us from several of their batteries on shore) the prize ships following our motions, and stood out of the harbor of Port Praya, close under East Point, passing the enemy's squadron about gun shot to windward of them ; crossed our top gallant yards, and set foresail, mainsail, spanker, flying-jib and top-gallant sails. The enemy seeing us under way, tacked ship and made all sail in chase of us. As far as we could judge of the rates, from the thickness of the weather, suppos. ed them two ships of the line and one frigate. At £ past 12, cut away the boats towing astern — first cut- ter and gig. At 1 P. M. found our sailing about equal with the ships on our lee quarter, but the frigate lulling up, gaining our wake and rather dropping as- tern of us ; finding the Cyane dropping astern and to leeward, and the frigate gaining on her fast, I found it impossible to save her if she continued on the same NAVAL MONUMENT. 181 course, without having the Constitution brought to ac- tion by their whole force. I made the signal at 10 minutes past 1, to her to tack ship, which was com- plied with. This manoeuvre, I conceived, would de- tach one of the enemy's ships in pursuit of her, while at the same time, from her position, she would be ena- bled to reach the anchorage at Port Praya, before the detached ship could come up with her ; but if they did not tack after her, it would afford her an opportu- nity to double their rear, and make her escape before the wind. They all continued in full chase of the Levant and this ship ; the ship on our lee quarter fir- ing broadsides, by divisions — her shot falling short of us. At 3, by our having dropped the Levant consid- erably, her situation became (from the position of the enemy's frigate) similar to the Cyane. It became necessary to separate also from the Levant, or risk this ship being brought to action to cover her. I made the signal at 5 minutes past 3, for her to tack, which was complied with. At 12 minutes past 3, the whole of the enemy's squadron tacked in pursuit of the Le- vant, and gave up the pursuit of this ship. This sac- rifice of the Levant became necessary for the preser- vation of the Constitution. Sailing Master Hixon, Midshipman Varnum, one boatswain's mate, and 12 men, were absent on duty in the 5th cutter, to bring the cartel brig under our stern. ANECDOTES. The Constitution is so deservedly a favorite with the public, that a few anecdotes of her last cruise will not be uninteresting. The modest, plain letter of Capt. Stewart, with the accompanying extracts from the lo, Shannon, 38, Guerriere 38, Belvidier 38, and JEolus 32. The chase continued 51 hours. Her last escape was from the Leander 50, JVeivcastle 50, and Acas- la 40. In 1804, the Constitution made several daring at- tacks on the batteries before the town Tropoli, moun- ting 115 pieces of heavy cannon. She repeatedly, and for hours, engaged their forts, within musket shot, and her bold movements and destructive fire most es- sentially assisted in wresting from captivity 300 of our countrymen, as the Bashaw was compelled to sub- mit to terms of peace. HORNET AND PENGUIN. COPY OF A LETTER FROM CAPT. BIDDLE TO COM. DE- CATUR. United States Sloop Hornet off Tristand' Acuna, Sir, March 25, 1815. I have the honor to inform you, that on the morning of the 23d inst. at half past 10, when about to anchor off the north end of the Island of Tristan d' Acuna, a sail was seen to sothered and eastward steering to the westward, the wind fresh from S. S. W. In a few minutes she had passed on to the westward so far that we could not see her for the land. I immedi- ately made sail for the westward and shortly after get- ting in sigh of her again perceived her to bear up ■?■■— • '- NAVAL MONUMENT. 187 before the wind. When she had approached near, I filled the main-top-sail, and continued to yaw the ship, while she continued to come down, wearing occasion- ally to prevent her passing under our stern. At 10 minutes past 1 P. M. being within nearly musket shot distance, she hauled her wind on the starboard tack, hoisted English colors and fired a gun. We imme- diately luffed to, hoisted our ensign, and gave the en- emy a broadside. The action being thus commenced, a quick and well directed fire was kept up from, this ship, the enemy gradually drifting nearer to us, when at 55 minutes past It, he bore up apparently to run us on board. As soon as I perceived he would certainly fall on board, I called the boarders so as to be ready to repel any attempt to board us. At the instant eve- ery officer and man repaired to the quarter deck, when the two vessels were coming in contact, and eagerly pressed me to permit them to board the enemy ; but this I would not permit, as it was evident from the commencement of the action, that our fire was great- ly superior both in quickness and in effect. The ene- my's bowsprit came in between our main and mizzen rigging, on our starboard side, affording him an oppor- tunity to board us, if such was his design ; but no at- tempt was made. There was a considerable swell on, and as the sea lifted us ahead, the enemy's bow- sprit carried away our mizzen shrouds, stern davits, and spanker boom, and he hung upon our larboard quarter. At this moment an officer who was after- wards recognized to be Mr. M' Donald, the 1st lieu- tenant and the then commanding officer, called out that they had surrendered. I directed the marines and musketry-men to cease firing, and while on the taffril, asking if they had surrendered, I received a wound in the neck. The enemy just then got clear of us, and his fore-mast and bowsprit being both gone, and perceiving us wearing to give him a fresh broad- side, he again called out, that he had surrendered. It was with difficulty I could restrain my crew from firing into him again, as he had certainly fired into us 188 NAVAL MONUMENT. after having surrendered. From the firing of the first gun, to the last time the enemy cried out lie had sur- rendered, was exactly twenty-two minutes by the watch. She proved to be His Britannic Majesty's brif this ship neglected no means in their power for her defence. Very respectfullv, your obedient servant, Hon. William Jones', C. MORRIS. Secr'y of the navy. A letter from Capt. Morris to the secretary of the navy, dated Sept. 20th, giving a more particular ac- count of the loss of the Adams, concludes as follows: " The character of my first lieutenant, Wadsworth, was already too well established to require the ad- 32 250 NAVAL MONUMENT. ditional evidence he gave of richly deserving the en- tire confidence of the department and his country. His brother officers of the navy and marines, equally zealous and attentive, are also entitled to my thanks and their country's approbation. The bravery of the seamen and marines is unquestioned ; their uncom- monly good conduct upon their march, those feelings which induced them to rally round their flag, at a dis- tance of 200 miles from the place of their dispersion, entitled them to particular approbation, and render them an example, which their brother tars may ever be proud to imitate." LOSS OF THE SYREN. COPY OF A LETTER FROM CAPT. BRINE, OF HIS MAJESTY'S SHIP MEDWAY 74, TO VICE ADMIRAL TYLER. His Majesty's Ship Medivay, at sea, Sir, July 12, 1814.. I have the honor to acquaint you, that erasing in the execution of your orders, I this day fell in with and#captured, after a chase of 11 hours, nearly on a wind, the United States brig of war Syren, comman- ded by J. N. Nicholson, who succeeded to the com- mand by the death of her captain (Parker) at sea. The Syren, is pierced for 18 guns, had 16 mounted, viz. two 42 and twelve 241b carronades, with two long 9 pounders, and had a complement of 137 men ; all her guns, boats, anchors, cables, and spars were thrown overboard during the pursuit. The Syren had received a most complete repair, previous to her sail- ing, and is newly coppered. I have 1 ^. \Cv, &£?%■ - i 1 1 ; ll J m S; 1 <: N | ; •M ^ 1er 9 Philip F Voorlioes 9 Henry Gilliam 9 John H. Clack' 9 William D. Salter 9 William A. Spencer 9 William L. Gordon 9 David Geisinger 9 Richard Winter 9 John T. Wade 9 John Percival 9 James Ramage 9 William V. Taylor 9 Maruine Mix 9 Thomas N. Newell 9 Edward Haddaway 9 Charles F. M'Cawley 9 John H. Bell 9 Dulany Forrest 9 Bladen Dulany 9 Tho. W. Magruder 9 July do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do Oct. June do July do Dec. do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do do 1S13 1814 1814 Francis B. Gamble Richard Dashiel John Tayloe George B M'Culloch Robert Spedder Thomas T. Webb Walter G. Anderson Stephen Champlin Charles T. Stallings James M'Gowan William Lowe E. A . F Vallette John H. Aulick Charles T. Clarke Silas Duncan Thomas Cunningham Isaac M' Keeper Robert F. Stockton Nat L. Montgomery Walter N- Munteath A. C. Stout Sdas H. Stringham George Vane leave Paul Zantzinger John W. Gibbs John T. Druiy Charles E. Cowley William Laughton Nelsen Webster Wm. A. C. Farragut Richard G. Edwards William Merwin William K. Latimer Gusta' us W. Spooner Laac Mayo William H.Brailsford William El iott Thomas Crabb Edward B. Babbit George Hamersley SURGEONS. Edward Cutbush Peter St. Medard Samuel R. Marshall Levis Heerman Joseph G. P. Hunt Jonathan Cowdery ■ Samuel D. Heap Robert L. Thorn Samuel R. Trevett. Jr. Wm. P. C. Barton Joseph W. New Joseph S. Schoolfield George Logan Amos A. Evans Robert Morrell Robert S. Kearney James Page Johr D. M'Reynolds Thomas Harris William Turk No. Hyde Ray No. William Baldwin No. 9 July 9 do 9 do 9 do 9 do 9 do 1814 do do do 9 do 9 do do do do 9 do 9 do do do J) do 9 do 9 do 9 do 9 do 9 do 9 do 9 do 9 Dec. 9 do 9 do 9 do 9 do Feb. do do do do do do May do 1814 1815 June, July, Jan. Nov. do do do March, do April, June, do April, do May, July, March, Oct. July, July, do do 1799 < 1800 1804 1809 1810 1811 I 1812 1818 • The relative rank of those officers 1814, has nut been established. whose commissions are dated the 9th of December, NAVAL REGISTER 319 Names and Rank. Dales of Com- missions. Names and Jiank. I Dates of Com. missons. Win W. Buchanan No. 4 tS.i i mn-l Ayer No. 5 E. L. Lawtoo No. 6 Charles Cotton No. 7 Gerard Dayers No. 8 William Caton No. 9 Robert A. Barton No. 10 Benj. P. Kissam No. II John A. Kearney No. 13 Richard C. Edgar No. 14 1 B. Washington No. 15 Wni. M Clarks No. 16 Tho's Chidester No. 17 Jas Inderwicke No. 18 Geo. T. Kennon No. 19 Walter \V New Sanaiel Horsley Robert C. Randolph Charles B. Hamilton Usher Parsons William Swift J. M. S.Conway Richard K. Hoffman Richmond Johnson Thomas B. Salter surgeons' mates. John Harrison Stith Lewis Gustavus R. Brown Manuel Philips William Barnwell William Belt Donaldson Yeates John D. Armstrong William C. Whittlesey Peter Christie John Young, Jr. Samuel Jackson Andrew B Cook James C. Garrison E. D. Morrison 1813 24 July 24 do 24 do 24 do 24 do 24 do 24 do 24 do 24 do 24 do 24 do 24 do 24 do 24 do 24 do 6 Oct. 15 April 1814 15 do 15 do 15 do 15 do 27 June, 16 July, 1 March 1815 22 May No. 2 Horatio S. Warring No. 3 John H Gordod, Acting Surgeon No. 5 Samuel M. Kissam No. 6 Lponard Osborne No. 9 Tho's Williamson No. 7, John Dix No. 10 Benj. Austin, Jr. No 15 Thomas Cadle No. 16 Leuco Mitchell No. 17 Silas D. Wickes No. IS Isaac Balwin, Jr. No. 19 WilmotF.RodgersNo. 20 Thomas Rogerson George S Sproston John C. R.chardson John W. Peaco Archimedps Smith Ale'r M. Montgomery Oliver L"Chevalier William Bmler Thomas M'Kissocli 16 23 1 18 28 23 14 27 7 8 9 10 21 22 24 24 24 24 24 24 21 24 24 24 24 24 24 25 8 17 28 5 16 10 10 10 Jan. 1805 do 1809 March C July C do 1810 Sept. 1811 May 1812 do < July C do C do < do c Dec. c do 1 July 1813 do C do c do 6 do t do ( do « do C do 1 do c do < do t do < Oct. c Nov. c May 1814 June C July c do t Dec. I do 4 do 1 John Wise Thomas I. II. Cua!iing John H. Steel S. B Whittington Francis Gerrisll Edward Woodward Benjamin A. Welles Frederick P. Mark ham William D. Conway James N. Tunisia le Davis G. Tack Robert C. Wardle James Norris Thomas C. Gardner William F. Bradbury Benajah Tickner William P. Jones Thomas G. Peachy John Mairs John M'Adam John S. Mersnon Charles Chase Thomas V. Wieseuthal George B. Doane Amos King Pliny Morton • Benjamin S. Tyler Nathaniel Miller William Burchmore Solomon D. Townsend Richard Derby, Jr. John R. Martin, acting Surgeon James R. Royce, acting Surgeon's Mate David H. Fraser, acting Surgeon's Mate, rurtsERs. isaae Garreston Clement S. Hunt Gwinn Harris John H. Carr Nathaniel Lyde James R. VV ilson Samuel Robertson Samuel Hambleton Robert C. Ludlow Robert Pottinger John B. Timberlake Thomas I. Chew Thomas Shields Richard C. Archer Lewis Deblois George S. Wise Francis A . Thornton Edwin T. Satterwhite James M. Halsev Edward Fitzgerald Alexander P. Darragh F.dward W. Turner Robert Ormsby Henry Dennison Ludlow Dashw.ood 10 Dec, 10 Jo 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 do 10 10 10 10 6 Jan. 10 do 1814 May. do 9 May 10 Jan. 22 Feb. 1815 25 April IS 25 do 25 do 25 do 25 do 25 do 25 do « 25 do 25 do 25 do 25 do 25 do 25 2o ♦ 25 de 25 do « 25 do 25 do 25 do ' 25 do 25 do 25 do 25 do 25 do 25 do « 62 do « 320 NAVAL REGISTER. Names and Rank. Dates of Com missions. Names and Rank. \Y illiara S. Rogers Henry Fry John R Shaw Samuel P. Todd Nathaniel VV. Rotlnvell George Beall James H. Clark William P. Zanlzinger Joseph North Joseph Wilson, Jr. Herman Thorn Thomas Waine Lewis Fairchild John S. Skinner Josepli R. Wilkinson Ezekiel Solomon Benjamin F. Bourne William Sinclair Richard T. Timberlake Samuel Livennore Matthew C Alwood Gerome K. Spence Melancton W.Bostwick John N. Todd Timothy Winn William M. Sands Thomas Breese Joseph H. Terry, acting Purser CHAPLAINS. Andrew Hunter David P. Adams John Cook William H. Briscoe Colden Cooper (lieever Felch A. Y. Humphreys, acting Champlain MIDSHIPMEN. Adams, James Adam, Robert Armstrong, James A. L. Alexander, Albert A. Abbot, Walter Allison, William R. Abbot, Joel Averv, George Ashbridge, Josepli H. Adams, Henry A. Andrews, Alex'r M'Kim Armistead, Robert Allen, William H. Alexander, Nathaniel Armstrong, William H. Abbot, Thomas <-. Adams, Roderick R. Bond, Samuel P.rown, Thomaa S. Brown, I. A. D. Berry, William Breeze, Samuel L. A. /«. Buunnan, CharleH 26 Feb. 1813 27 do 27 do 1 March ' 2 do 24 July ' 24 do • 24 do 24 do ' 24 do 24 do ' 24 do « 24 do 26 March 1814 26 do 26 do 26 do 26 do « 26 do « 26 do 26 do 8 April 16 July 1 March 1815 17 May « 20 do « 8 July 1S12 5 March 1811 10 May 19 do 11 July 24 April 1815 12 May « 16 J: 1809 18 May i 15 Nov. c 1 Sept. 1811 1 Jan. 1812 1 do « 1 do C 28 do c 14 Aug. 1813 14 March 1814 13 April ( m July C 30 Nov. s 30 do c 30 do c 6 Dec. 1 2 March 1815 20 Jan. 1806 17 Dec. 1S10 17 do c 17 do < 17 do < 9 June 1811 Belt, William 1. Belches, John A. A. L. Berry, Charles Boerutn William Barron, Samuel Bryden, John Bowyer, Thomas H. Bryan, Benjamin Beatty, Horatio Brasheara, Richard Balhnger, Franklin Baldwin, William Bonneville, Thomas N. | Baker, Yorrick Bell, William H. Ball, Eliphalet Biglow, Abraham Boden, \\ illiam Benson, John C, Beck, Samuel Baldwin, Russell Brown, Thomas H. Bruce, Henry Bubier, John Byrne, Edmund Bird, John D. Benham, Timothy G. Brewster, Benjamin Branch, Cyrus A. Bartholomew, Benjamin Barr, James Babbidge, John P. Boughan, James Buchanan, Franklin Bainbridge, Arthur Boardley, John M. Bowman, Joseph Cutler, William Chaille.William H. Caton, Richard, Jr. Cross, Joseph Caldwell, t harlesH. Cook, John A. Chauncey, John S. Conover, Thomas A. Campbell, Archibald Cranston, Robert Crary, Lodowick Cornwall, Joseph S. Cuthbert, Lachlan Cocke, Harrison Childs, Enos Curtis, James F. Cambreling, John P. Carter, Nathaniel, Jr. Cooke, John, Jr. Connor, James Cutis, James M. I Curtis, Thomas B Cummings, John L. ; < arpenter, Edward Carpenter, Benjamin Channings, John M. Carter, Hill Dales of Com- missions. 1 Sept. « 1 do c 1 do ( 1 do I 1 Jan. 1S12 1 do 1 1 do • 1 do t 1 do ( 1 do t 1 do 1 1 do t 1 do C 18 July t 18 do « 18 do t 18 do < 18 do • 22 Aug. * 12 April 1818 17 May t 9 Nov. t 9 do < 9 do • 1 Feb. 1814 16 April ( 30 Nov. 1 30 do < 30 do £ 30 do • SO do ( 30 do I 11 Jan. 1815 28 do « 23 Feb. t 7 March ( 8 July c 15 Nov. 1809 17 Dec. 1810 9 June 1811 9 do 1 Sept. 1 Jan. 1812 1 do 1 do 1 do 1 do 1 do 1 i r >S Coin. Biiin- ■\ ]2 Spark F. Gamble 74 Independence oridge, Capt. £ 11 Spitfire A. J. Dallas Crane ) 10 Porch W Chauncey 7-1 Washington Cap. 1 Chauncey 14 Nonsuch Trant 74 Franklin Lieu. Morgan 17 Ticonderoga first officer since 10 Lady Pievosl, /. B- the death of 9 Prometheus A. S. Wadsworth Capt. Smith 9 Pom Bowline Hoffman 74 New-Orleans 9 Alligator 74 Chippewa 7 Roanoke 44 Guerricro, flagship Com.S. Decature \ 10 Hunter, late British Dapt. Lewis 7 Firebrand 44 United States J . Shaw 7 Surprise 44, Constitution 5 Hornet 44 Java O. H. Perry 5 Ghent 44 Pittsburgh 3 Caledonia, late B. 44 Superior 5 Lynx 36 1 Constellation C. Gordon 3 Despatch 36 Congress C. Morris 3 Asp 36 Macedonian, late B. J . Jones 3 Porcupine 32 Mohawk 2 Gov. Tompkins 32 Confiance, late B. 8 Conquest 28 Cyane do 1 Ranger 24jSaratoga 3 Lady of the Lake 24 John Adams E. Trenchard 1 Ontario 24 General Pike Ravan 20 Madison Asp, 20 Alert, late British W. Stewart 3 Pert 18 Hornet* J. Riddle 4 Fair America 18 Wasp* J. Blakeley 1 Amelia 18 Peacock L. Warrenton 11 Finch, lute British 18 Ontario J.D. Elliott 11 Chubb, do 18 Erie C. Ridgeley 7 Preble 18 Louisiana 6 Montgomery 18 Niagara 5 Camel 18 Detroit, late British 5 Buffalo 18 Lawrence Tickler 18 Eagle 12 President 18 Jefferson 2 Galley Centipede 18 Jones 2 Nettle 18 Epervier,* late B. 16 Chippewa J. T. Shubrick 2 Viper G. C. Read 2 Borer 16 ^aranac J. Elton 2 Allen 16 Boxer J. Porter 2 Burrows 16 Linnet, late British 1 A 1 wyn 16|Troup 1 Ballard 16 Sylph 1 Ludlow 16 Qu. Charlotte, I. B. 1 Wilmer 14 Enterprize L. Kearney Ketch Spitfire 14 Oneida Vesuvius 1'2 Fleambeau J. B. Nicholson Vengeance U Firefly G. \V. Rogers INDEX. Adams, cruise of escape of loss of Allen, funeral of Alligator Asp, Iosjs ot Argus and Pelican escape of Algiers, wat with Burrows, funeral of Blythe do Bainbridge, private letter of ^Barney Barrataira, piraies of Champlain, Lake, victory of Caroline, loss of Challenge to Decatur to ('apt. Green to Capt Lawrence Chesapeake and Shannon Constitution and Guerriere and Java and Cyane and Levant escape of cruise of Craney Island Eagle capture of Enterprise and Boxer Erie, Lake battle of Essex and Alert loss of Ferret, loss of F.'otilla, Delaware Bay — — Lake Borgne Com. Barney Fort George, capture of Frolic, loss of Gun-boats, attack on Gardner's Island 243 Huron, Lake 257 243 Hamilton and Scourge 269 248 and Coufiance 273 72 Hall, death of . 240 245 Hornet and Bonne Citoyenne 37 226 — — — and Peacock 38 69 and Penguin 186 217 escape of 192 297 Lawrence, funeral of 48 83 Lewes, commodore 244 S3 Lottery, Schooner 220 219 Mobile 251 245 Nautilus, loss of 9—210 252 Navy in 1812 315 145 in 1815 261 Naval Register 317 255 Non Such, schoonei 245 236 Ontario, Like 262 37 Oswego, attack on 274 66 Peacock and Epervier 128 44 cruise of 257 9 President and Belvidera 201 28 loss of 158 174 Pitipague attack on, repulse at 242 3 Rattlesnake and Enterprise 240 240 227 i (• 246 234—239 Rodgers' cruise 228 Sackett's harbor, attack on 26S 229 ISandy Creek, capture of gun-boat i 275 77 Swallow, capture of 215 259 Surveyor, revenue cutter 293 85 Syreu, loss of 250 211 Testimonies of respect 280 97 Torpedo 231 238 United States and Macedonian 23 232 Viper, loss of 227 253 Vixen, do 215 245 Washington city 246 267 Wasp and Frolic 16-214 243 and Reindeei 134 224 and Avon 140 232 York, capture of 265 in -7 n 1 \>. ^ V •* % ^ *^> >> ^ c% 1 8 * -fy ^ V ^' V ^ • V , - v 0~ V- V> ^ % >.