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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Medallic History of the United States
+of America 1776-1876, by J. F. Loubat
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Medallic History of the United States of America 1776-1876
+
+Author: J. F. Loubat
+
+Illustrator: Jules Jacquemart
+
+Release Date: June 20, 2007 [EBook #21880]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MEDALLIC HISTORY ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Curtis Weyant, Christine P. Travers and the
+Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
+
+
+
+
+
+
+[Transcriber's note: Transcriber's note: Obvious printer's errors have
+been corrected, all other inconsistencies are as in the original.
+Author's spelling has been maintained.
+
+--The anchor for the footnote 78 was not to be found on the original page.
+--[Rx] is used for "Reverse".
+--Lines of 5 spaced hyphens has been placed where the author has cut
+passages of letters.
+--Centered groups of 5 underscores have been placed by the authors to show
+change of document.]
+
+
+
+
+ THE
+
+ MEDALLIC HISTORY
+
+ OF
+
+ THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
+
+ 1776-1876.
+
+
+
+
+ BY
+
+ J. F. LOUBAT, LL.D.
+
+ MEMBER OF THE NEW-YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
+
+
+ KNIGHT COMMANDER OF ST. STANISLAUS OF RUSSIA.
+ KNIGHT OF THE FIRST CLASS OF THE CROWN AND OF
+ FREDERICK OF WUeRTTEMBERG.
+ KNIGHT OF THE LEGION OF HONOR OF FRANCE.
+
+
+
+
+ WITH 170 ETCHINGS BY JULES JACQUEMART.
+
+
+
+
+ _published by_
+ N. FLAYDERMAN & CO., INC.
+ New Milford, Connecticut, U.S.A.
+
+
+ Library of Congress Catalog Card No 67-28353
+
+
+ Printed & Bound in Norwalk, Connecticut
+ by T. O'Toole & Sons, Inc.
+
+
+ All Rights Reserved. No part of this book may be
+ reproduced in any form without written permission
+ of the publisher.
+
+
+ N. FLAYDERMAN & CO., INC.
+ New Milford, Connecticut, U.S.A.
+
+
+
+
+TO THE HONORABLE ELIHU B. WASHBURNE, (p. vi)
+
+LATE ENVOY EXTRAORDINARY AND MINISTER PLENIPOTENTIARY
+OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA TO FRANCE.
+
+
+ My Dear Sir:
+
+ Permit me to dedicate to you this work on our National Medals,
+ as a slight testimonial for your distinguished services during
+ your long official residence in Paris, and especially during
+ the siege of that city in 1870-1871, when you had under your
+ protection the subjects of fourteen governments besides your
+ own, and yet so discharged your delicate and responsible duties
+ as to win universal approbation.
+
+ Yours sincerely,
+ J. F. LOUBAT.
+ New-York, Union Club, _May_, _1878_.
+
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTION. (p. vii)
+
+
+Medals, by means of the engraver's art, perpetuate in a durable form
+and within a small compass which the eye can embrace at a glance, not
+only the features of eminent persons, but the dates, brief accounts,
+and representations (direct or emblematical) of events; they rank,
+therefore, among the most valuable records of the past, especially
+when they recall men, deeds, or circumstances which have influenced
+the life of nations. How much light has been furnished for the study
+of history by the concise and faithful testimony of these silent
+witnesses! The importance of medals is now universally acknowledged,
+and in almost every country they are preserved with reverent care, and
+made the subject of costly publications, illustrated by elaborate
+engravings, with carefully prepared letter-press descriptions and
+notes. Up to the present time no thorough work devoted to the medals
+of the United States of America has been published. When I entered
+upon the task, several years ago, of investigating their history (p. viii)
+for the period embracing the first century of the Republic, I had
+little conception of the difficulties to be encountered. The search
+involved a very considerable expenditure of time and labor, but at
+last I have the satisfaction of offering to the public the result of
+my investigations, completed according to the original plan.
+
+Although our political history measures but a hundred years, it
+records so many memorable deeds, and the names of so many illustrious
+citizens, that our medals form, even now, an historically valuable
+collection, to say nothing of the great artistic merit of some of
+them. During the War of Independence alone, how many exploits, how
+many heroes do we find worthy of being thus honored! How numerous
+would have been our medals if Congress had not been imbued with the
+conviction that only the very highest achievements are entitled to
+such a distinction, and that the value of a reward is enhanced by its
+rarity! In voting those struck after the War of 1812-'15 with Great
+Britain, and after that of 1846-'47 with Mexico, the same discretion
+was shown. There was still greater necessity for reserve during the
+late Civil War, and only two were presented during that painful
+period: one to Ulysses S. Grant, then a major-general, for victories,
+and another to Cornelius Vanderbilt, in acknowledgment of his free
+gift of the steamship which bore his name.
+
+Similar national rewards have been earned also by deeds which interest
+humanity, science, or commerce; as, for instance, the laying of the
+transatlantic telegraph cable, the expedition of Doctor Kane to the
+Arctic Seas, and the beneficence of George Peabody. If to these are
+added the Indian peace medals, bearing the effigies of our (p. ix)
+successive Presidents, the various elements which compose the official
+medals of the United States of America will have been enumerated.
+
+As neither titles of nobility nor orders of knighthood exist in our
+country, Congress can bestow no higher distinction on an American
+citizen than to offer him the thanks of the nation, and to order that
+a medal be struck in his honor. I cannot do better than to quote here
+the words of General Winfield Scott, when he received from President
+Monroe the medal voted to him for the battles of Chippewa and Niagara:
+
+"With a deep sense of the additional obligation now contracted, I
+accept at the hands of the venerable Chief Magistrate of the Union the
+classic token of the highest reward a free man can receive: the
+recorded approbation of his country."
+
+Our medals number eighty-six in all, most of which were struck by
+order of Congress in honor of citizens of the United States. Seventeen
+belong to the period of the Revolution, twenty-seven to the War of
+1812-'15, four to the Mexican War, and two to the Civil War. Only five
+were voted to foreigners: one, in 1779, to Lieutenant-Colonel de
+Fleury, a French gentleman in the Continental Army, for gallant
+conduct at Stony Point; another, in 1858, to Dr. Frederick Rose, an
+assistant-surgeon in the British Navy for kindness and humanity to
+sick seamen on one of our men-of-war; and the others, in 1866, to three
+foreign merchant captains, Messrs. Creighton, Low, and Stouffer, who,
+in December, 1853, went to the aid of the steamer San Francisco, (p. x)
+thereby "rescuing about five hundred Americans."
+
+Seven of the eighty-six medals do not owe their origin to a
+congressional vote: two which were struck in the United Netherlands
+(1782), one to commemorate their acknowledgment of the United States
+of America, and the other the treaty of amity and commerce between the
+two countries; that known as Libertas Americana (1783); the two in
+honor of Franklin (1784-1786); the Diplomatic medal (1790); and lastly
+that struck in memory of the conclusion of the treaty of commerce
+between the United States and France (1822). Although these cannot
+properly be classed as official medals, their historic importance and
+value as works of art entitle them to a place in our national
+collection.
+
+Nearly all of the early medals were executed by French engravers,
+whose names alone are a warrant for the artistic merit of their work.
+We are indebted to Augustin Dupre, who has been called the "great
+Dupre" for the Daniel Morgan, the Nathaniel Greene, the John Paul
+Jones, the Libertas Americana, the two Franklin, and the Diplomatic
+medals; to Pierre Simon Duvivier for those of George Washington, de
+Fleury, William Augustine Washington, and John Eager Howard; to
+Nicolas Marie Gatteaux for those of Horatio Gates, Anthony Wayne, and
+John Stewart; and to Bertrand Andrieu and Raymond Gayrard for the one
+in commemoration of the signature of the treaty of commerce between
+France and the United States.
+
+Congress had not yet proclaimed the independence of the thirteen
+United Colonies when, on March 25, 1776, it ordered that a gold (p. xi)
+medal be struck and presented to "His Excellency, General Washington,"
+for his "wise and spirited conduct in the siege and acquisition of
+Boston." But this, although the first one voted, was not engraved
+until after the de Fleury and the Libertas Americana pieces, both of
+which were executed in Paris under the direction of Benjamin Franklin.
+The following letter gives the date of the de Fleury medal:
+
+ To His Excellency
+ Mr. HUNTINGTON, Passy, March 4, 1780.
+ President of Congress.
+
+ Sir: Agreeably to the order of Congress, I have employed one of
+ the best artists here in cutting the dies for the medal intended
+ for M. de Fleury. The price of such work is beyond my
+ expectation, being a thousand livres for each die. I shall try if
+ it is not possible to have the others done cheaper.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ With great respect I have the honour to be, Sir, your most
+ obedient and most humble servant,
+ B. FRANKLIN.
+
+This medal was shown in the exhibition of the Royal Academy in Paris
+in 1781. The Libertas Americana piece was struck in 1783.
+
+Six of the earliest of the series were designed under the supervision
+of Colonel David Humphreys, namely, those for Generals Washington,
+Gates, Greene, and Morgan, and Lieutenant-Colonels Washington and
+Howard. To insure a due observance of the laws of numismatics, and
+that they might bear comparison with the best specimens of modern
+times, Colonel Humphreys asked the aid of the French Academy of
+Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres in the composition of the designs. (p. xii)
+He explained his action in this respect to the President of Congress
+in the following letter:
+
+ To His Excellency Paris, March 18, 1785.
+ THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
+
+ Sir: Before I left America, I made application to the
+ Superintendent of Finances for the sword which Congress had been
+ pleased to order, by their resolution of the 17th of November,
+ 1781, to be presented to me, in consequence of which Mr. Morris
+ informed me verbally that he would take the necessary
+ arrangements for procuring all the honourary presents which had
+ been directed to be given to different officers during the late
+ war, and requested that I would undertake to have them executed
+ in Europe. Some time after my arrival here, I received the
+ inclosed letter[1] from him, accompanied with a list of medals,
+ etc., and a description of those intended for General Morgan and
+ Colonels Washington and Howard.
+
+ Upon the receipt of these documents I did not delay to make the
+ proper inquiries from the characters who were the best skilled in
+ subjects of this nature, and after having spoken to some of the
+ first artists, I was advised to apply to the Abbe Barthelemy,
+ member of the academies of London, Madrid, Cortona, and
+ Hesse-Cassel, and actual keeper of the King's Cabinet of Medals
+ and Antiquities, at whose instance I wrote a letter to the Royal
+ Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres, of which a copy is
+ inclosed. Being informed at the same time that the description of
+ medals for General Morgan, etc., was not in the style and manner
+ such medals were usually executed, I took the liberty of
+ suspending the execution of them, until I could learn whether it
+ is the pleasure of Congress to have them performed _exactly_ in
+ the manner prescribed--which shall be done accordingly, in case I
+ should not be honoured with further instructions on the subject
+ before their approaching recess.
+
+ The medals voted for the capture of Stony Point have been, or I
+ believe may be, all struck from the die originally engraved to
+ furnish one of them for Colonel de Fleury.
+
+ As to the swords in question, it is proposed to have them all
+ constructed in precisely the same fashion, the hilt to be of
+ silver, round which a foliage of laurel to be enameled in (p. xiii)
+ gold in such a manner as to leave a medallion in the centre
+ sufficient to receive the arms of the United States on one side,
+ and on the reverse an inscription in English, "The United States
+ to Colonel Meigs, July 25, 1777," and the same for the others.
+ The whole ten, executed in this manner, may probably cost about
+ three hundred louis d'or, which is (as I have been informed) but
+ little more than was paid for the sword which some time since was
+ presented on the part of the United States to the Marquis de la
+ Fayette.
+
+ I have the honour to be, with the most perfect respect,
+ D. HUMPHREYS.
+
+ P.S. I forgot to mention that, in order to have the medals for
+ General Morgan, etc., executed in the manner originally proposed,
+ it will be necessary for me to have more particular information
+ of the numbers on both sides, of the killed, wounded, prisoners,
+ trophies, etc., which the enemy lost in the action of the
+ Cowpens.
+
+ [Footnote 1: I have not been able to find this
+ letter.]
+
+The following is the letter to the Royal Academy of Inscriptions and
+Belles-Lettres, referred to by Colonel Humphreys in the above:
+
+ Paris, March 14, 1785.
+ Mr. DACIER,
+ Perpetual Secretary of the Academy of Inscriptions
+ and Belles-Lettres, Rue Chabanais, Paris.
+
+ Sir: Having it in charge to procure the honourary presents which
+ (during the late war) have been voted by Congress to several
+ meritorious officers in their service, particularly three medals
+ in gold, one for General Washington, another for General Gates,
+ and a third for General Greene; and, being extremely desirous
+ that these medals should be executed in a manner grateful to the
+ illustrious personages for whom they are designed, worthy the
+ dignity of the sovereign power by whom they are presented, and
+ calculated to perpetuate the remembrance of those great events
+ which they are intended to consecrate to immortality, I therefore
+ take the liberty to address, through you, Sir, the Academy of
+ Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres, on the subject, and entreat that
+ this learned body will be pleased to honour me, as soon as (p. xiv)
+ may be convenient, with their advice and sentiments respecting
+ the devices and inscriptions proper for the before mentioned
+ medals. A memoir,[2] which has been left in the hands of M.
+ Barthelemy, one of their members, will give the necessary
+ information.
+
+ In addressing so respectable an assembly of _literati_ I do not
+ think myself permitted to enlarge on the importance of this
+ subject, because they must know, much better than I can inform
+ them, in how great a degree such monuments of public gratitude
+ are calculated to produce a laudable emulation, a genuine love of
+ liberty, and all the virtues of real patriotism, not only among
+ the innumerable generations who are yet to people the wastes of
+ America, but on the human character in general. Nor do I make
+ those apologies for the trouble I am now giving, which would be
+ requisite, did I not feel a conviction that whatever is
+ interesting to the national glory of America, to the good of
+ posterity, or to the happiness of the human race, cannot be
+ indifferent to a society composed of the most enlightened and
+ liberal characters in Europe, fostered by the royal protection of
+ a monarch whose name will forever be as dear to the United States
+ as it will be glorious in the annals of mankind.
+
+ Being so unfortunate as not to be able to write myself in French,
+ my intimate friend and brave companion in arms, M. le marquis de
+ la Fayette, has had the goodness to make a translation of this
+ letter into that language, which I inclose herewith.
+
+ I have the honour to be, with the most perfect respect, Sir, your
+ most obedient and most humble servant,
+ D. HUMPHREYS.
+
+ [Footnote 2: I have not been able to find any trace
+ of this memoir in the archives of the French
+ Academy.]
+
+A letter written by Franklin, about the same time, to John Jay, then
+Secretary for Foreign Affairs, is of much interest in this connection:
+
+ To the Honourable
+ John JAY, Passy, May 10, 1785.
+ Secretary for Foreign Affairs.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ P.S. The striking of the medals being now in agitation here, I
+ send the inclosed for consideration.
+
+ _A thought concerning the Medals that are to be struck by (p. xv)
+ order of Congress._
+
+ The forming of dies in steel to strike medals or money, is
+ generally with the intention of making a great number of the same
+ form.
+
+ The engraving those dies in steel is, from the hardness of the
+ substance, very difficult and expensive, but, once engraved, the
+ great number to be easily produced afterward by stamping
+ justifies the expense, it being but small when divided among a
+ number.
+
+ Where only one medal of a kind is wanted, it seems an unthrifty
+ way to form dies for it in steel to strike the two sides of it,
+ the whole expense of the dies resting on that medal.
+
+ It was by this means that the medal voted by Congress for M. de
+ Fleury cost one hundred guineas, when an engraving of the same
+ figures and inscriptions might have been beautifully done on a
+ plate of silver of the same size for two guineas.
+
+ The ancients, when they ordained a medal to record the memory of
+ any laudable action, and do honour to the performer of that
+ action, struck a vast number and used them as money. By this
+ means the honour was extended through their own and neighbouring
+ nations, every man who received or paid a piece of such money was
+ reminded of the virtuous action, the person who performed it, and
+ the reward attending it, and the number gave such security to
+ this kind of monuments against perishing and being forgotten,
+ that some of each of them exist to this day, though more than two
+ thousand years old, and, being now copied in books by the arts of
+ engraving and painting, are not only exceedingly multiplied but
+ likely to remain some thousands of years longer.
+
+ The man who is honoured only by a single medal is obliged to show
+ it to enjoy the honour, which can be done only to a few and often
+ awkwardly. I therefore wish the medals of Congress were ordered
+ to be money, and so continued as to be convenient money, by being
+ in value aliquot parts of a dollar.
+
+ Copper coins are wanting in America for small change. We have
+ none but those of the King of England. After one silver or gold
+ medal is struck from the dies, for the person to be honoured,
+ they may be usefully employed in striking copper money, or in
+ some cases small silver.
+
+ The nominal value of the pieces might be a little more than the
+ real, to prevent their being melted down, but not so much more as
+ to be an encouragement of counterfeiting. I am, etc.,
+ B. FRANKLIN.
+
+The Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres "entered on the (p. xvi)
+discussion with the same alacrity as if the subject had been designed
+to illustrate the actions of their compatriots, or to immortalize some
+glorious events in the annals of their own nation."[3] Commissioners,
+consisting of four of its members, were at once appointed to suggest
+designs for the three medals asked for Generals Washington, Gates, and
+Greene.[4]
+
+ [Footnote 3: See A, page xxxiv.]
+
+ [Footnote 4: See B, page xxxvi.]
+
+Through the courtesy of M. Narcisse Dupre, son of Augustin Dupre, I am
+enabled to give the contract between his father and Colonel Humphreys
+for the engraving of the medal for General Greene:[5]
+
+ [Footnote 5: For the French original see C, page
+ xli.]
+
+ I, the undersigned, Augustin Dupre, engraver of medals and
+ medallist of the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture, bind
+ myself to Colonel Humphreys to engrave the medal representing the
+ portrait of General Greene. On the reverse, Victory treading
+ under her feet broken arms, with the legend and the exergue, and
+ I hold myself responsible for any breakage of the dies up to
+ twenty-four medals, and bind myself to furnish one at my own
+ expense (the diameter of the medal to be twenty-four _lignes_).
+
+ All on the following conditions: That for the two engraved dies
+ of the said medal shall be paid me the sum of two thousand four
+ hundred _livres_, on delivery of the two dies after the
+ twenty-four medals which the Colonel desires have been struck.
+
+ Done in duplicate between us, in Paris, this nineteenth of
+ November, one thousand seven hundred and eighty-five (1785).
+
+ D. HUMPHREYS.
+ DUPRE.
+
+On November 25th of the same year, M. Dacier, the perpetual secretary
+of the Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres, communicated another
+letter from Colonel Humphreys, in which he requested the Academy to
+compose designs for three more medals, which had been voted to
+General Morgan and to Lieutenant-Colonels Washington and Howard. (p. xvii)
+Commissioners were appointed and designs made for these also.[6]
+
+ [Footnote 6: See B, page xxxvi.]
+
+Colonel Humphreys having returned to America before the medals were
+finished, their superintendence was undertaken by Mr. Jefferson, as
+will be seen from the following letter:
+
+ To the Honourable
+ John JAY, Paris, February 14, 1787.
+ Secretary for Foreign Affairs.
+
+ Sir: Mr. Morris, during his office, being authorized to have the
+ medals and swords executed, which had been ordered by Congress,
+ he authorized Colonel Humphreys to take measures here for the
+ execution. Colonel Humphreys did so, and the swords were finished
+ in time for him to carry them. The medals not being finished, he
+ desired me to attend to them. The workman who was to make that of
+ General Greene brought me yesterday the medal in gold,
+ twenty-three in copper, and the die. Mr. Short, during my
+ absence, will avail himself of the first occasion which shall
+ offer of forwarding the medals to you. I must beg leave, through
+ you, to ask the pleasure of Congress as to the number they would
+ choose to have struck. Perhaps they might be willing to deposit
+ one of each person in every college of the United States. Perhaps
+ they might choose to give a series of them to each of the crowned
+ heads of Europe, which would be an acceptable present to them.
+ They will be pleased to decide. In the meantime I have sealed up
+ the die, and shall retain it till I am honoured with their orders
+ as to this medal, and the others also, when they shall be
+ finished.
+
+ With great respect and esteem,
+ Th: JEFFERSON.
+
+In another letter to Mr. Jay, dated Marseilles, May 4, 1787, Mr.
+Jefferson again refers to this subject:
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ I am in hopes Mr. Short will be able to send you the medals of
+ General Gates by this packet. I await a general instruction as to
+ these medals. The academies of Europe will be much pleased to
+ receive a set.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+Mr. Jefferson's communication of the 14th of February was (p. xviii)
+brought to the notice of Congress by Mr. Jay, and was referred back to
+him by Congress. The result was the following report:
+
+ OFFICE FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS,
+ July 11, 1787.
+
+ The Secretary of the United States for the Department of Foreign
+ Affairs, to whom was referred a letter from the Honourable Mr.
+ Jefferson of the 14th of February last,
+
+ _Reports_, Your secretary presumes that the following paragraphs
+ in this letter occasion its being referred to him, viz.: "The
+ workman who was to make a medal of General Greene brought me
+ yesterday the medal in gold, twenty-three in copper, and the die.
+ I must beg leave, through you, to ask the pleasure of Congress as
+ to the number they would choose to have struck. Perhaps they
+ might be willing to deposit one of each person in every college
+ of the United States. Perhaps they might choose to give a series
+ of them to each of the crowned heads of Europe, which would be an
+ acceptable present to them. They will be pleased to decide. In
+ the meantime I have sealed up the die, and shall retain it till I
+ am honoured with their orders as to this medal, and the others
+ also, when they shall be finished."
+
+ As these medals were directed to be struck in order to signalize
+ and commemorate certain interesting events and conspicuous
+ characters, the distribution of them should in his opinion be
+ such as may best conduce to that end. He therefore thinks that
+ both of Mr. Jefferson's hints should be improved, to wit, that a
+ series of these medals should be presented to each of the crowned
+ heads in Europe, and that one of each set be deposited in each of
+ the American colleges. He presumes that Mr. Jefferson does not
+ mean that any should be presented to the King of Great Britain,
+ for it would not be delicate; nor that by crowned heads he meant
+ to exclude free states from the compliment, for to make
+ discriminations would give offense.
+
+ In the judgment of your secretary it would be proper to instruct
+ Mr. Jefferson to present in the name of the United States one
+ silver medal of each denomination to every monarch (except His
+ Britannic Majesty), and to every sovereign and independent state
+ without exception in Europe; and also to the Emperor of Morocco.
+ That he also be instructed to send fifteen silver medals of each
+ set to Congress, to be by them presented to the thirteen (p. xix)
+ United States respectively, and also to the Emperor of China with
+ an explanation and a letter, and one to General Washington.
+ That he also be instructed to present a copper medal of each
+ denomination to each of the most distinguished universities
+ (except the British) in Europe, and also to Count de Rochambeau,
+ to Count d'Estaing, and to Count de Grasse; and, lastly, that he
+ be instructed to send to Congress two hundred copper ones of each
+ set, together with the dies.
+
+ Your secretary thinks that of these it would be proper to present
+ one to each of the American colleges, one to the Marquis de la
+ Fayette, and one to each of the other major-generals who served
+ in the late American army; and that the residue with the dies be
+ deposited in the Secretary's Office of the United States, subject
+ to such future orders as Congress may think proper to make
+ respecting them.
+
+ It might be more magnificent to give gold medals to sovereigns,
+ silver ones to distinguished persons, and copper ones to the
+ colleges; but, in his opinion, the nature of the American
+ Governments, as well as the state of their finance, will
+ apologize for their declining the expense.
+
+ All which is submitted to the wisdom of Congress.
+
+ John JAY.
+
+The records of the Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres show
+that in 1789, at the request of Mr. Jefferson, it also composed
+designs for the medals awarded by Congress to General Wayne, Major
+Stewart, and Captain John Paul Jones.[7] Mr. Jefferson had previously
+had an interview with M. Augustin Dupre on the subject, as will be
+seen by the following note, the original of which is in Mr.
+Jefferson's handwriting:[8]
+
+ [Footnote 7: See D, page xli.]
+
+ [Footnote 8: For the French originals of this and
+ the following letter, see E, page xliv.]
+
+ To
+ M. DUPRE,
+ Engraver of Medals and Medallist of the
+ Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture.
+
+ Mr. Jefferson having received orders concerning medals to be
+ struck would like to talk about them with M. Dupre, if he will
+ please do him the honour to call on him to-morrow morning before
+ eleven o'clock.
+
+ Saturday, January 3, 1789.
+
+In the following month, Mr. Jefferson again wrote to M. Dupre, (p. xx)
+inclosing descriptions of the designs for the medals of General Morgan
+and of Admiral Jones. The reader will note some slight differences
+between these and those originally composed by the Academy of
+Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres:
+
+ To
+ M. DUPRE,
+ Engraver of Medals and Medallist of the
+ Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture.
+
+ Mr. Jefferson has the honour to send to M. Dupre the devices for
+ the medals for General Morgan and Rear-Admiral Paul Jones, which
+ he has just received from the Academy of Belles-Lettres, and the
+ making of which he proposes to M. Dupre, the latter to be
+ responsible for the success of the dies up to the striking of
+ three hundred and fifty of each medal in gold, silver, or bronze,
+ and to furnish proofs in tin at the end of the month of March
+ next, so that the medals may all be struck before the 15th of
+ April. He begs him to kindly mention the conditions on which he
+ will undertake them, and Mr. Jefferson will have the honour to
+ reply on receipt of them.
+
+ February 13, 1789.
+
+
+ _Medal for General Morgan, of twenty-four lignes in diameter._
+
+ The general, at the head of his army, charges the enemy, which
+ takes to flight.
+
+ _Legend_: VICTORIA LIBERTATIS VINDEX.
+
+ _Exergue_: FUGATIS CAPTIS AUT CAESIS AD COWPENS HOSTIBUS 17 Jan.
+ 1781.
+
+ _Reverse_: America, recognizable by her shield, rests her left
+ hand upon a trophy of arms and of flags, and with her right
+ crowns the general, who bends before her.
+
+ _Legend_: DANIELI MORGAN DUCI EXERCITUS.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+
+ _Medal for Rear-Admiral John Paul Jones, of twenty-four (p. xxi)
+ lignes._
+
+ _Device_: His head (M. Houdon will furnish the bust in plaster).
+
+ _Legend_: JOANNI PAULO JONES CLASSIS PRAEFECTO.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ _Reverse_: Naval Engagement.
+
+ _Legend_: HOSTIUM NAVIBUS CAPTIS AUT FUGATIS.
+
+ _Exergue_: AD ORAM SCOTIAE 23 SEPT. 1779.
+
+The following, from the same to the same, bearing date February 15,
+1789, throws some light on the prices of the medals engraved by M.
+Dupre:
+
+ To
+ M. DUPRE,
+ Engraver of Medals, Paris.
+
+ Mr. Jefferson has the honour to observe to M. Dupre that he pays
+ only twenty-four hundred _livres_ to M. Duvivier or to M.
+ Gatteaux for medals which measure twenty-four _lignes_, that he
+ paid the same sum to M. Dupre himself for that of General Greene,
+ and that recently M. Dupre asked no higher price for that of
+ General Morgan. Mr. Jefferson cannot, therefore, consent to give
+ more. For that sum he would expect to have the best work of M.
+ Dupre and not that of inferior artists. As regards time, perhaps
+ it may be possible to prolong it somewhat in regard to the medal
+ for Admiral Paul Jones, that officer being at present in Europe.
+ Mr. Jefferson will have the honour to await M. Dupre's answer,
+ and will be happy to conclude this arrangement with him.[9]
+
+ February 15, 1789.
+
+ [Footnote 9: For the French original see F, page
+ xlv.]
+
+It is to be supposed that Dupre accepted these conditions, since he is
+the engraver of the John Paul Jones medal, one of the finest specimens
+in our collection. The Daniel Morgan piece is no less remarkable as an
+effort of numismatic skill. The fight at the Cowpens, on the reverse,
+is a striking example of the boldness with which Dupre enlarged (p. xxii)
+the limits of his art, and, in defiance of all traditional rules,
+successfully represented several planes in the background.
+
+I cannot do better than to give the opinion, concerning this and the
+other of Dupre's American medals, of M. Charles Blanc,[10] from whom I
+quote freely in the following:
+
+ [Footnote 10: INSTITUT DE FRANCE--ACADEMIE DES
+ BEAUX-ARTS _Notice sur la vie et les ouvrages
+ d'Augustin Dupre, Graveur-General des Monnoies de
+ la Republique. Lue dans la seance trimestrielle des
+ cinq classes de l'Institut, le 26 Octobre, 1870,
+ par M. Charles Blanc_.]
+
+The Morgan medal, says this eminent French critic, seems to vibrate
+beneath the rush of cavalry and the tread of infantry flying in the
+background, indicated by the almost imperceptible lines of the metal
+where the smoke of the cannonade is vanishing away in air. In the
+Libertas Americana medal, which recalls, if we except the evacuation
+of Boston, the two most memorable events of the War of Independence,
+namely, the capitulation of General Burgoyne, at Saratoga, in October,
+1777, and that of General Lord Cornwallis, at Yorktown, in October,
+1781, Dupre has represented the new-born Liberty, sprung from the
+prairies without ancestry and without rulers, as a youthful virgin,
+with disheveled hair and dauntless aspect, bearing across her shoulder
+a pike, surmounted by the Phrygian cap. This great artist, in
+consequence of his intimacy with Franklin, had conceived the greatest
+enthusiasm for the cause of the United States. Franklin resided at
+Passy, and Dupre at Auteuil. As they both went to Paris every day,
+they met and made acquaintance on the road--an acquaintance which soon
+ripened into friendship. Dupre first engraved Franklin's seal with the
+motto, "_In simplici salus_," and afterward his portrait. This (p. xxiii)
+portrait presents an _alto-rilievo_ which is well adapted for medals
+only; it is conceived in the spirit of the French school, which has
+always attached great importance to the truthful rendering of flesh.
+The artist has indicated the flat parts, the relaxation of the
+muscles, and, as it were, the quivering of the flesh, so as to convey
+an exact idea of the age of the model. He has conscientiously
+represented the lines which the finger of Time imprints on the
+countenance, but, above all, he has given us with wonderful fidelity
+the physiognomy of the American sage, his shrewd simplicity, his
+sagacity, and his expression of serene uprightness. A Latin hexameter
+from the pen of Turgot became the well-known legend of this medal:
+"_Eripuit coelo fulmen, sceptrumque tyrannis._"
+
+The four pieces executed by Duvivier are no less remarkable for beauty
+and excellence of workmanship. They all figured at the exhibitions of
+the members of the Royal Academy of Paris, that of the Chevalier de
+Fleury, as mentioned before, in the exhibition of 1781, and those of
+of General and of Lieutenant-Colonel Washington, and Lieutenant-Colonel
+Howard, in that of 1789.[11]
+
+ [Footnote 11: See G, page xlv.]
+
+In those by Gatteaux, the personification of America as an Indian
+queen with an alligator at her feet is noteworthy.
+
+With the exception of the Treaty of Commerce medal (1822), and perhaps
+of that of Captain Truxtun, our medals after the War of Independence
+were engraved and struck at home. Before that time, indeed, the one
+voted in 1779 to Major Henry Lee had been made by John Wright, of
+Philadelphia. From the close of the eighteenth century down to (p. xxiv)
+1840 John Reich and subsequently Moritz Fuerst were the engravers of
+the national medals. Reich's works are valued; unfortunately they are
+few in number. They consist of the medal voted in 1805 to Captain
+Edward Preble for his naval operations against Tripoli, of another
+voted in 1813 to Captain Isaac Hull for the capture of the British
+frigate Guerriere, and of those of Presidents Jefferson and Madison.
+That of President Jefferson especially deserves attention for its
+beauty.
+
+But little can be said in commendation of the works of Fuerst, whose
+numerous medals are very inferior to Reich's, and still less worthy of
+being compared with those of the French engravers. While wishing to
+avoid undue severity, I cannot but endorse the opinion of General
+Scott, given in a communication addressed to the Honorable William L.
+Marcy, Secretary of War, in regard to the medal voted to General
+Zachary Taylor, for victories on the Rio Grande:
+
+ To the Honourable HEADQUARTERS OF THE ARMY,
+ William L. MARCY, Washington, July 25, 1846.
+ Secretary of War.
+
+ As medals are among the surest monuments of history, as well as
+ muniments of individual distinction, there should be given to
+ them, besides intrinsic value and durability of material, the
+ utmost grace of design, with the highest finish in mechanical
+ execution. All this is necessary to give the greater or
+ adventitious value; as in the present instance, the medal is to
+ be, at once, an historical record and a reward of distinguished
+ merit. The credit of the donor thus becomes even more than that
+ of the receiver interested in obtaining a perfect specimen in the
+ fine arts.
+
+ The within resolution prescribes _gold_ as the material of the
+ medal. The general form (circular) may be considered as equally
+ settled by our own practice, and that of most nations, ancient
+ and modern. There is, however, some little diversity in
+ _diameter_ and _thickness_ in the medals heretofore ordered (p. xxv)
+ by Congress, at different periods, as may be seen in the cabinets
+ of the War and Navy Departments. Diversity in dimensions is even
+ greater in other countries.
+
+ The specific character of the medal is shown by its two faces, or
+ the _face_ and the _reverse_. The within resolution directs
+ appropriate devices and inscriptions thereon.
+
+ For the _face_, a bust likeness is needed, to give, with the name
+ and the rank of the donee, _individuality_. To obtain the
+ likeness, a first-rate miniature painter should, of course, be
+ employed.
+
+ The _reverse_ receives the device, appropriate to the events
+ commemorated. To obtain this, it is suggested that the
+ resolutions and despatches, belonging to the subject, be
+ transmitted to a master in the art of design--say Prof. Weir, at
+ West Point--for a drawing--including, if practicable, this
+ inscription:
+
+ PALO ALTO;
+ RESACA DE LA PALMA:
+ MAY 8 AND 9, 1846.
+
+ A third artist--all to be well paid--is next to be employed--a
+ die-sinker. The mint of the United States will do the coinage.
+
+ Copies, in cheaper metal, of all our gold medals, should be given
+ to the libraries of the Federal and State Governments, to those
+ of the colleges, etc.
+
+ The medals voted by the Revolutionary Congress were
+ executed--designs and dies--under the superintendence of Mr.
+ Jefferson,[12] in Paris, about the year 1786. Those struck in
+ honour of victories, in our War of 1812, were all--at least so
+ far as it respected the land service--done at home, and not one
+ of them presented, I think, earlier than the end of Mr. Monroe's
+ administration (1825). The delay principally resulted from the
+ want of good die-sinkers. There was only one of mediocre merit
+ (and he a foreigner) found for the army. What the state of this
+ art may now be in the United States I know not. But I beg leave
+ again to suggest that the honour of the country requires that
+ medals, voted by Congress, should always exhibit the arts
+ involved, in their highest state of perfection _wherever_ found:
+ for letters, science, and the fine arts constitute but _one_
+ republic, embracing the world. So thought our early Government,
+ and Mr. Jefferson--a distinguished member of that general
+ republic.
+
+ All which is respectfully submitted to the Secretary of War.
+
+ [Footnote 12: This is an error. See page xi.]
+
+Whatever may be the weight of General Scott's opinion on such a (p. xxvi)
+subject, and whether or not it is important, as he insists, that
+medals should possess high artistic value, in order that they may be
+not only the rewards of merit and monuments of history, but also
+favorable specimens of contemporary art, it must be acknowledged that
+those struck since 1840 differ widely, in many respects, from those of
+the preceding period. While the earlier works are of a pure and lofty
+style, the later ones are not always in good taste. The former are
+conceived generally in strict observance of classical rules, and will
+bear comparison with the numismatic masterpieces of antiquity; the
+latter reflect the realistic tendency of their day.
+
+The Indian medals, with the exception of that of President Jefferson
+and a few others, which are very fine, possess only an historic value.
+These pieces owe their origin to the custom, in the colonial times, of
+distributing to the chiefs of Indian tribes, with whom treaties were
+concluded, medals bearing on the obverse the effigy of the reigning
+British sovereign, and on the reverse friendly legends and emblems of
+peace. Mr. Kean, member of the Continental Congress from South
+Carolina, on April 20, 1786, moved: "That the Board of Treasury
+ascertain the number and value of the medals received by the
+commissioners appointed to treat with the Indians, from said Indians,
+and have an equal number, with the arms of the United States, made of
+silver, and returned to the chiefs from whom they were received." The
+result was the Indian series, which bear on their obverses the busts
+of the respective Presidents under whom they were issued (none (p. xxvii)
+exists of President Harrison, who died a month after his inauguration);
+but it should be borne in mind that these are mere Indian peace
+tokens, struck only for distribution as presents to friendly chiefs.
+
+I have called in question the discernment of some of the Federal
+administrations in their choice of engravers; unfortunately, I have
+also to draw attention to an unaccountable delay in the execution of
+one of the medals. It seems scarcely credible that the one voted in
+1857 to Dr. Elisha Kent Kane for his discoveries in the Arctic Seas
+has not yet been struck. Elder, in his "Life of E. K. Kane" (page
+228), says:
+
+ "Congress having failed at its first session after his (Kane's)
+ return to appropriate, by a national recognition, the honors he
+ had won for his country, had no other opportunity for repairing
+ the neglect till after his death; then a gold medal was ordered,
+ of which, I believe, nothing has been heard since the passage of
+ the resolution."
+
+To complete my undertaking, it was necessary not only to study the
+composition and history of all our national medals, but also to have
+plates of them engraved, which could only be done from the originals
+or copies, or, as a last resort, from casts.
+
+My first step was to apply to the Mint in Philadelphia for bronze
+copies of all the medals. In 1855 the director of that establishment
+had been authorized by the Secretary of the Treasury, to strike from
+the original dies, copies of the medals for sale, as is the custom at
+the Paris Mint. But when he sought to avail himself of this
+authorization, it was discovered that many of the dies were missing.
+It was thought probable that those of the medals which had been (p. xxviii)
+struck in France during the War of Independence would be found there,
+and the French Government was communicated with, in 1861, in regard to
+the following: "Washington before Boston; General Wayne, for capture
+of Stony Point; Colonel Fleury, for same; Captain Stewart, for same;
+Major Lee, for capture of Paulus Hook; Colonel John Eager Howard, for
+Cowpens; Colonel William Washington, for same; Major-General Greene,
+for Eutaw Springs; Captain John Paul Jones, for capture of the Serapis
+by the Bonhomme Richard."[13]
+
+ [Footnote 13: See H, page xlvii.]
+
+But the Paris Mint possessed only the dies of the two Washington, of
+the Howard, and of the John Paul Jones medals; moreover, the rules of
+that establishment did not permit them to be given up. Bronze copies
+of the four were obtained, however, and from them Messrs. George
+Eckfeldt and R. Jefferson of the Philadelphia Mint cut new dies.
+
+In Washington, in January, 1872, I was informed by Mr. Spofford, of
+the Library of Congress, that after the fire which destroyed a portion
+of that library, December 24, 1851, the bronze copies of the medals
+formerly deposited there had been transferred to the Smithsonian
+Institution. At the latter place I was shown the remains of the
+collection, all more or less injured by fire. Moreover, the five
+wanted were not to be found; and further investigations made in
+December, 1877, in the Philadelphia Mint, showed that four of the
+dies, namely, those of Generals Greene and Wayne, and of
+Lieutenant-Colonel de Fleury and Major Stewart, are still missing from
+that establishment.
+
+During the year 1872, I obtained permission from the Honorable
+Hamilton Fish, Secretary of State, to examine in the archives of (p. xxix)
+his department the official papers relating to the medals of the War
+of Independence, and was fortunate enough to find the correspondence
+concerning the Diplomatic medal between Jefferson, William Short, the
+Marquis de la Luzerne, and the Count de Moustier. Afterward, in the
+reports of the Massachusetts Historical Society (vol. vi., 3d series),
+I found a description which seemed to apply to this same medal. I then
+went to Philadelphia to see the writer of the description, Joshua
+Francis Fisher, Esq., but he was on his death-bed, and it was
+impossible to prosecute the inquiry. After his decease, I was informed
+that no medal of the kind described was contained in his collection.
+
+In 1790, President Washington ordered two Diplomatic medals to be
+struck and presented, one to the Marquis de la Luzerne, French
+Minister to the United States, and the other to his successor, the
+Count de Moustier. In Paris, in 1874, I made application to the
+present heads of those families, the Count de Vibray[14] and the
+Marquis de Moustier,[15] for information concerning these medals; but
+no trace of the object of my search could be found among their family
+papers.
+
+ [Footnote 14: The Count de Vibray is the
+ representative in the female line of the de la
+ Luzerne family, which is extinct in the male line.]
+
+ [Footnote 15: The Marquis de Moustier is the
+ great-grandson of the Count de Moustier.]
+
+About this time, Mr. Charles I. Bushnell, of New York city, kindly
+sent me plaster casts of an obverse and of a reverse, in which I at
+once recognized the Diplomatic medal, but neither bore the signature
+of Dupre. Nevertheless, I had a plate engraved from them, hoping by
+its aid to find the original.
+
+I then turned once more to M. Gatteaux, the son of M. Nicolas (p. xxx)
+Marie Gatteaux, who had shown me, in 1868, in his house in the Rue de
+Lille, Paris, the wax model of the obverse of the medal of General
+Gates, and the designs for those of General Wayne and Major Stewart,
+but, the house having been burnt during the reign of the Commune in
+1871, he could furnish no information, and I was as far as ever from
+discovering the original of this piece.
+
+In 1876 I showed to M. Augustin Dumont, the celebrated sculptor,[16]
+and the godson of Augustin Dupre, the plate engraved from the plaster
+casts, and from him I learned that M. Narcisse Dupre, the son of
+Augustin, was still living in the south of France, at Montpellier. M.
+Dumont had given to M. Ponscarme, his pupil, now professor in the
+Ecole des Beaux-Arts, the _maquettes_, or lead proofs, of many of
+Dupre's works. A few days later, M. Ponscarme showed me a _maquette_
+of the obverse of the Diplomatic medal, and at last M. Narcisse Dupre
+sent me a photograph of the reverse. I thus obtained proof of the
+correctness of the engraved plate.
+
+ [Footnote 16: Among his most noted works is the
+ bronze statue of the Emperor Napoleon I., placed by
+ Napoleon III. on the column in the Place Vendome,
+ Paris, which was overthrown by the Communists. The
+ statue has since been replaced on the reconstructed
+ column. M. Dumont, who is a professor in the Ecole
+ des Beaux-Arts, is a member of the Institute,
+ Commander of the Legion of Honor, etc.]
+
+While in Washington, in February, 1872, I was fortunate enough to
+find, in the office of Rear-Admiral Joseph Smith, then chief of the
+Bureau of Yards and Docks, in the Navy Department, where they were
+used as paperweights, the original dies of the medal voted to
+Commodore Edward Preble for his naval operations against Tripoli. I
+immediately brought this to the notice of the chief clerks of (p. xxxi)
+the Navy and of the Treasury Departments, and also to that of Captain
+(now Rear-Admiral) George H. Preble, a connection of the commodore's,
+and these dies are now where they belong, in the Mint in Philadelphia.
+Shortly afterward I was also instrumental in having restored to the
+mint the dies of the Vanderbilt medal, which were lying in the cellar
+of one of the New York city banks.
+
+I have found it impossible to obtain any trustworthy information
+respecting the designer and the engraver of the medal, voted on March
+29, 1800, in honor of Captain Thomas Truxtun. As there were no
+competent medallists in the United States at the period, and as we
+were then at war with France, it is presumable that the dies were made
+in England. If so, they were probably cut at the private mint of
+Matthew Boulton, of Birmingham, who furnished the United States
+Government for a long time with planchets for its copper coinage.
+
+The work now offered to the public consists of two volumes: Volume I.,
+Text; Volume II., Plates.
+
+The text is subdivided into eighty-six sections, corresponding to the
+number of the medals, in each of which is included, besides the
+descriptive matter, all the documents that could be obtained relating
+to the respective piece, and arranged according to the following plan:
+
+1. The number of the medal, its date, and its number in the book of
+plates. The medals are arranged chronologically: those voted by
+Congress according to the dates of the several resolutions or acts
+awarding them, and not in the order of the events which they
+commemorate; the unofficial ones in the order of events which they
+commemorate; and the presidential pieces according to the date (p. xxxii)
+of inauguration of each President.
+
+2. The descriptive titles of each medal, in the following order: 1st,
+the legends of the obverse and of the reverse; 2d, the name of the
+person honored, or of the title by which the piece is known; 3d, the
+event commemorated.
+
+3. A description of the medal, beginning with the obverse: 1st, the
+whole legend; 2d, the description of the emblems and devices; 3d, the
+legend of the exergue; 4th, the names of the designer and of the
+engraver. The same order has been followed for the reverse. The
+legends are copied exactly from the medals, and when in Latin,
+translated; the abbreviations are explained, and are, like the
+translations, placed between parentheses. The words, "facing the
+right" and "facing the left" mean the right or the left of the person
+looking at the piece.
+
+4. A short biographical sketch of the designers and of the engravers.
+
+5. A short biographical sketch of the person in whose honor the medal
+was struck, or of the President of the United States, in case of the
+Indian peace tokens.
+
+6. Original documents, such as Resolutions or Acts of Congress, the
+official reports of the events commemorated, and letters of interest.
+
+The original documents have been given in the belief that the reader
+would prefer them to a mere recital of the events of which they treat.
+Many of these are now printed for the first time.
+
+It is interesting to note that Mr. Jefferson, as early as 1789,
+entertained the idea of publishing an account of all the (p. xxxiii)
+American medals struck up to that time, as will be seen from the
+following letter;
+
+ To
+ M. DUPRE,
+ Engraver of Medals, Paris.
+
+ Mr. Jefferson is going to have a description of all the medals
+ printed, in order to send them, with copies of the medals, to the
+ sovereigns of Europe. The one of Mr. Franklin, made by M. Dupre,
+ is wanting; he begs you to lend him a copy, and to communicate to
+ him the description also, if any has been made, as is probable.
+
+ February 23, 1789[17].
+
+ [Footnote 17: The original of this letter, which is
+ in French, and which was communicated to me in
+ Paris by M. Narcisse Dupre, is undoubtedly in the
+ handwriting of Mr. Jefferson. I have sought in vain
+ for the document mentioned in it. See I, page 1.]
+
+No mention is made of the size of the medals, as the plates show their
+exact dimensions.
+
+Being desirous that the execution of the engravings should be as
+perfect as possible, I invited M. Jules Jacquemart, of Paris, to
+undertake the whole of them. M. Jacquemart needs no praise. All
+amateurs know his etchings from Van der Meer, Franz Hals, Rembrandt,
+etc., and his plates for the "History of Porcelain," by M. Albert
+Jacquemart, his father, for the "Gems and Jewels of the Crown,"
+published by M. Barbet de Jouy, and for the "Collection of Arms" of
+Count de Nieuwerkerke. The American public has had, moreover, an
+opportunity of admiring the works of this eminent artist at the
+Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York city. His collaboration adds
+great value to the artistic portion of this work.
+
+
+
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS (p. xxxiv)
+
+REFERRED TO IN THE INTRODUCTION.
+
+A
+
+
+ Mount Vernon, November, 1787.
+ To
+ THE PRINTER OF THE AMERICAN MUSEUM (Mr. CAREY.)
+
+ Sir: I understand that a part, if not all, of the medals which,
+ in the course of the late war, were voted by Congress to officers
+ of distinguished merit, and for the execution of which I
+ contracted with artists at Paris, have lately arrived in America.
+ But, not having seen any account published of the devices and
+ inscriptions, I presume it will not be ungrateful to the public
+ to receive some authentic information respecting these memorials
+ of national glory. However superfluous the publication of the
+ correspondence[18] on this subject with the Perpetual Secretary
+ of the Royal Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres might be
+ deemed, it will not, I conceive, be improper it should be known
+ that this learned society, to whom a reference was made, entered
+ on the discussion with the same alacrity as if the subject had
+ been designed to illustrate the actions of their compatriots, or
+ to immortalize some glorious events in the annals of their own
+ nation. You will be at liberty to insert in your _Museum_ the
+ result of their deliberations.
+
+ In our free republics certainly nothing should be suppressed that
+ can tend to awaken a noble spirit of emulation, to cherish the
+ fine feelings of patriotism, to exhibit alluring examples for
+ imitation, or to extend and perpetuate the remembrance of those
+ heroic achievements which have ennobled the era of the American
+ Revolution. Few inventions could be more happily calculated to
+ diffuse the knowledge and preserve the memory of illustrious
+ characters and splendid events than medals--whether we take into
+ consideration the imperishable nature of the substance whence
+ they are formed, the facility of multiplying copies, or the
+ practice of depositing them in the cabinets of the curious.
+ Perhaps one improvement might be made. The sage and venerable Dr.
+ Franklin, whose patriotic genius is active in old age, and ever
+ prolific in projects of public utility, once suggested,[19] in
+ conversation with me, as an expedient for propagating still more
+ extensively the knowledge of facts designed to be perpetuated in
+ medals, that their devices should be impressed on the current
+ coin of the nation.
+
+ Under influence of such ideas, I shall claim the indulgence (p. xxxv)
+ of my countrymen for bringing forward a communication which might
+ possibly have come more satisfactorily from some other quarter.
+ An apprehension that the subject might remain unnoticed is my
+ apology.
+
+ I am, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant,
+ David HUMPHREYS.
+
+ [Footnote 18: I have found none of this
+ correspondence in the archives of the French
+ Academy, Paris, nor in those of the State
+ Department, Washington, excepting the letter of
+ Colonel Humphreys to M. Dacier, dated Paris, March
+ 14, 1785, for which see page xiii.]
+
+ [Footnote 19: See Franklin's despatch to the
+ Honorable John Jay, dated Passy, May 10, 1785, page
+ xiv.]
+
+
+ _Devices and Inscriptions of American Medals._
+
+ The gold medal for General Washington represents the head of His
+ Excellency, with this legend: GEORGIO WASHINGTON SUPREMO DUCI
+ EXERCITUUM, ADSERTORI LIBERTATIS, COMITIA AMERICANA. On the
+ reverse: The Evacuation of Boston. The American army advances in
+ good order toward the town, which is seen at a distance, while
+ the British army flies with precipitation toward the strand, to
+ embark on board the vessels with which the roads are covered. In
+ the front of the picture, on the side of the American army,
+ General Washington appears on horseback, amid a group of
+ officers, to whom he seems to be pointing out the retreat of the
+ enemy.
+
+ Legend: HOSTIBUS PRIMO FUGATIS.
+
+ On the Exergue: BOSTONIUM RECUPERATUM, DIE 17 MARTII, MDCCLXXVI.
+
+ The gold medal for General Gates represents the head of that
+ general, with this legend: HORATIO GATES, DUCI STRENUO, COMITIA
+ AMERICANA.
+
+ On the reverse: The enemy's general, at the head of his army, who
+ are grounding their arms, presents his sword to the American
+ general, whose troops stand with shouldered arms.
+
+ Legend: SALUS REGIONUM SEPTENTRIONALIUM.
+
+ On the Exergue: HOSTE AD SARATOGAM IN DEDITIONEM ACCEPTO, DIE 17
+ OCTOBRIS, MDCCLXXVII.
+
+ The gold medal of General Greene represents the head of that
+ general, with this legend: NATHANIELI GREEN, EGREGIO DUCI,
+ COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ On the reverse: A Victory treading under feet broken arms.
+
+ Legend: SALUS REGIONUM AUSTRALIUM.
+
+ On the Exergue: HOSTIBUS APUD EUTAW DEBELLATIS, DIE 8 SEPTEMBRIS,
+ MDCCLXXXI.
+
+ The medal in gold for General Morgan, and those in silver for
+ Colonels Howard and Washington, were to be indicative of the
+ several circumstances which attended the victory at the Cowpens
+ on the 17th of January, 1781, in conformity to a special
+ resolution of Congress.
+
+ It may not be foreign to the purpose to add that dies have
+ formerly been engraved under the direction of Dr. Franklin,[20]
+ for striking the gold medal for General Wayne, and the silver
+ medals for Colonels de Fleury and Stewart, emblematic of their
+ gallant conduct in storming the works of Stony Point, sword in
+ hand.
+
+ [Footnote 20: This is an error. The medals for
+ General Wayne and Major Stewart were composed, at
+ the request of Mr. Jefferson, by the French Royal
+ Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres, in
+ 1789. See D, page xli.]
+
+ These are all the medals voted by Congress in the course of the
+ war.[21]
+
+ [Footnote 21: This is incorrect, as Congress voted
+ medals to Major Lee, September 24, 1779, and to
+ John Paulding, David Williams, and Isaac Van Wart,
+ November 3, 1780.]
+
+ * * * * *
+
+B (p. xxxvi)
+
+
+_Registre des Assemblees et Deliberations de l'Academie Royale des
+Inscriptions et Belles-Lettres pendant l'annee 1785._
+
+
+ Vendredi 8 avril 1785.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ Monsieur le secretaire a fait part d'une lettre de Monsieur
+ Humphreys, ancien colonel au service des Etats-Unis, par laquelle
+ il demande trois medailles pour Messieurs Washington, le general
+ Gates et le general Green. Il envoie en meme temps des
+ renseignements sur les actions de ces trois personnes.
+
+ L'academie a remis a huitaine pour s'occuper de ces trois
+ medailles.
+
+
+ Mardi 19 avril 1785.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ Apres ces differents arrangements, on s'est occupe des medailles
+ demandees par le Congres d'Amerique, et l'on a invite messieurs
+ les academiciens a apporter des projets pour ces medailles, a la
+ premiere seance, dans laquelle on est convenu de nommer des
+ commissaires pour rediger ces medailles.
+
+
+ Vendredi 22 avril 1785.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ Monsieur Dacier a fait ensuite la lecture des projets des trois
+ medailles pour les trois officiers generaux americains; apres les
+ avoir bien discutes, on a nomme, pour les terminer, Messieurs
+ Barthelemy, Dupuy, Brotier et Le Blond.
+
+
+ Mardi 26 avril 1785.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ Monsieur Dacier, le secretaire perpetuel, lut ensuite les sujets
+ de medailles demandees par le Congres pour trois officiers
+ generaux.
+
+
+ _Pour Monsieur Washington._
+
+ D'un cote sa tete.
+
+ _Legende_: GEORGIO WASHINGTON SUPREMO DUCI EXERCITUUM ADSERTORI
+ LIBERTATIS.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ _Revers_: La prise de Boston, l'armee anglaise fuyant vers le
+ rivage pour s'embarquer, etc.
+
+ _Legende_: HOSTIBUS OU ANGLIS PRIMUM FUGATIS.
+
+ _Exergue_: BOSTONIUM RECUPERATUM DIE 17 MARTII ANNO 1776.
+
+
+ _Pour Monsieur Gates._
+
+ D'un cote sa tete.
+
+ _Legende_: HORATIO GATES DUCI PROVIDO COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ _Revers_: Le general ennemi, a la tete de son armee, presente son
+ epee au general Gates, a la tete de l'armee americaine.
+
+ _Legende_: SALUS PROVINCIARUM SEPTENTRIONALIUM. (p. xxxvii)
+
+ _Exergue_: HOSTE AD SARATOGAM IN DEDITIONEM ACCEPTO DIE 17
+ 8{bris} 1777.
+
+
+ _Pour Monsieur Green._
+
+ D'un cote sa tete.
+
+ _Legende_: NATHANIELI GREEN EGREGIO DUCI COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ _Revers_: La Victoire foulant aux pieds des armes brisees.
+
+ _Legende_: SALUS PROVINCIARUM AUSTRALIUM.
+
+ _Exergue_: HOSTIBUS AD EUTAW DEBELLATIS DIE ... 1781.
+
+
+ Vendredi 13 mai 1785.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ D'apres des observations des commissaires, on a cru devoir
+ changer, dans les deux medailles du general Gates et du general
+ Green, le mot _Provinciarum_ en celui de _Regionum_. Et dans les
+ medailles de Gates, du cote de la tete, au lieu de _Duci provido_
+ on a mis _Duci strenuo_.
+
+
+ Vendredi 25 novembre 1785.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ Monsieur le secretaire a fait encore la lecture d'une lettre du
+ colonel Humphreys, secretaire d'ambassade de l'Amerique, par
+ laquelle il prie l'academie, au nom du Congres, de faire trois
+ medailles votees par le meme Congres; l'une pour le general
+ Morgan, la seconde pour le colonel Washington, la troisieme pour
+ le colonel Howard.
+
+ La deliberation a ete remise a huitaine selon l'usage.
+
+
+ Mardi 6 decembre 1785.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ On a nomme, pour rediger les sujets de medailles demandees par le
+ Congres des Etats-Unis de l'Amerique, Messieurs Barthelemy, Des
+ Brequigny, Le Blond, Brotier.
+
+
+ Mardi 13 decembre 1785.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ Monsieur le secretaire a lu les trois projets de medailles
+ arretes par les commissaires pour les medailles du general Morgan
+ et des colonels Washington et Howard, les voici:
+
+
+ _Pour le general Morgan._
+
+ _Type_: Le general a la tete de ses troupes, charge l'armee
+ ennemie qui prend la fuite.
+
+ _Legende_: VICTORIA LIBERTATIS VINDEX.
+
+ _Exergue_: CAESIS AUT CAPTIS AD COWPENS HOSTIUM ... SIGNIS RELATIS
+ ... 17 JAN. 1781.
+
+ _Revers_: L'Amerique, reconnaissable a son ecusson, appuie sa
+ main gauche sur un trophee d'armes et de drapeaux, et de la
+ droite couronne le general incline devant elle.
+
+ _Legende_:[22] N. MORGAN DUCI EXERCITUS.
+
+ [Footnote 22: Abbreviation of NOMEN, name, or of
+ NESCIO, I know not.]
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA AMERICANA ANNO ...
+
+
+ _Pour le colonel Washington._ (p. xxxviii)
+
+ _Type_: Le colonel, a la tete d'un petit nombre de soldats, fond
+ sur l'ennemi, qui commence a prendre la fuite, et que lui montre
+ la Victoire, placee au-dessus de sa tete.
+
+ _Legende_: N. WASHINGTON LEGIONIS N. PRAEFECTO.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA, etc.
+
+ _Revers_: L'inscription suivante doit etre gravee dans une
+ couronne de lauriers:
+
+ QUOD
+ PARVA MILITUM MANU
+ STRENUE PROSECUTUS HOSTES
+ VIRTUTIS INGENITAE
+ PRAECLARUM SPECIMEN DEDIT
+ IN PUGNA APUD COWPENS
+ 17 JAN. 1781.
+
+
+ _Pour le colonel Howard._
+
+ Meme type, meme legende au nom pres.
+
+ Meme exergue qu'a la precedente.
+
+ Au _Revers_: Dans une couronne de lauriers:
+
+ QUOD
+ IN NUTANTEM HOSTIUM ACIEM
+ SUBITO IRRUENS
+ PRAECLARUM BELLICAE VIRTUTIS
+ SPECIMEN DEDIT
+ IN PUGNA APUD COWPENS
+ 17 JAN. 1781.
+
+[Translation.]
+
+_Register of the Meetings and Deliberations of the Royal Academy of
+Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres during the year 1785._
+
+
+ Friday, April 8, 1785.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ The secretary communicated a letter from Mr. Humphreys, formerly
+ a colonel in the service of the United States, in which he asks
+ for three medals for Messrs. Washington, General Gates and
+ General Green. He sends at the same time information concerning
+ the deeds of these three persons.
+
+ The academy postponed for a week the consideration of these three
+ medals.
+
+
+ Tuesday, April 19, 1785.
+
+ - - - - -
+ After these different arrangements, the medals asked by the
+ Congress of America considered, and the gentlemen academicians
+ were invited to bring suggestions for these medals at the (p. xxxix)
+ following meeting, at which it was agreed that commissioners
+ should be named to compose these medals.
+
+
+ Friday, April 22, 1785.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ M. Dacier then read the proposals for the three medals for the
+ three American general officers; after they had been thoroughly
+ discussed, Messrs. Barthelemy, Dupuy, Brotier, and Le Blond, were
+ appointed to report on them.
+
+
+ Tuesday, April 26, 1785.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ M. Dacier, the perpetual secretary, then read the subjects of the
+ medals asked for by Congress for the three general officers.
+
+
+ _For Mr. Washington._
+
+ On one side, his head.
+
+ _Legend_: GEORGIO WASHINGTON SUPREMO DUCI EXERCITUUM ADSERTORI
+ LIBERTATIS.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ _Reverse_: The taking of Boston, the English army fleeing toward
+ the shore to embark, etc.
+
+ _Legend_: HOSTIBUS or ANGLIS PRIMUM FUGATIS.
+
+ _Exergue_: BOSTONIUM RECUPERATUM DIE 17 MARTII ANNO 1776.
+
+
+ _For Mr. Gates._
+
+ On one side, his head.
+
+ _Legend_: HORATIO GATES DUCI PROVIDO COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ _Reverse_: The enemy's general at the head of his army,
+ surrenders his sword to General Gates, at the head of the
+ American army.
+
+ _Legend_: SALUS PROVINCIARUM SEPTENTRIONALIUM.
+
+ _Exergue_: HOSTE AD SARATOGAM IN DEDITIONEM ACCEPTO DIE 17
+ 8{bris} 1777.
+
+
+ _For Mr. Green._
+
+ On one side, his head.
+
+ _Legend_: NATHANIELI GREEN EGREGIO DUCI COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ _Reverse_: Victory treading under her feet broken arms.
+
+ _Legend_: SALUS PROVINCIARUM AUSTRALIUM.
+
+ _Exergue_: HOSTIBUS AD EUTAW DEBELLATIS DIE ... 1781.
+
+
+ Friday, May 13, 1783.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ After observations by the commissioners, it was thought proper to
+ change, in the two medals of General Gates and of General Green,
+ the word _Provinciarum_ to that of _Regionum_. And in the medal
+ of Gates, on the side of the head, instead of _Duci provido_ to
+ substitute _Duci strenuo_.
+
+
+ Friday, November 25, 1785. (p. xl)
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ The secretary also read a letter of Colonel Humphreys, Secretary
+ of Embassy of America, in which he requested the academy, in the
+ name of Congress, to compose three medals voted by the same
+ Congress: one for General Morgan, the second for Colonel
+ Washington, the third for Colonel Howard.
+
+ The discussion was laid over, according to custom, until next
+ week.
+
+
+ Tuesday, December 6, 1785.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ Messrs. Barthelemy, Des Brequigny, Le Blond, and Brotier, were
+ named to compose the medals asked for by the Congress of the
+ United States of America.
+
+
+ Tuesday, December 13, 1785.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ The secretary read the three reports agreed upon by the
+ commissioners for the medals for General Morgan and Colonels
+ Washington and Howard, as follows:
+
+
+ _For General Morgan._
+
+ _Device_: The general, at the head of his troops, charges the
+ army of the enemy, which takes to flight.
+
+ _Legend_: VICTORIA LIBERTATIS VINDEX.
+
+ _Exergue_: CAESIS AUT CAPTIS AD COWPENS HOSTIUM ... SIGNIS RELATIS
+ ... 17 JAN. 1781.
+
+ _Reverse_: America, recognizable by her shield, rests her left
+ hand upon a trophy of arms and of flags, and with her right
+ crowns the general, who bends before her.
+
+ _Legend_: N. MORGAN DUCI EXERCITUS.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA AMERICANA ANNO ...
+
+
+ _For Colonel Washington._
+
+ _Device_: The colonel, at the head of a few soldiers, rushes on
+ the enemy, who begin to fly, and whom Victory, hovering over his
+ head, points out to him.
+
+ _Legend_: N. WASHINGTON LEGIONIS N. PRAEFECTO.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA, etc.
+
+ _Reverse_: The following inscription to be engraved in a crown of
+ laurel:
+
+ QUOD
+ PARVA MILITUM MANU
+ STRENUE PROSECUTUS HOSTES
+ VIRTUTIS INGENITAE
+ PRAECLARUM SPECIMEN DEDIT
+ IN PUGNA APUD COWPENS
+ 17 JAN. 1781.
+
+
+ _For Colonel Howard._ (p. xli)
+
+ Same device, same legend, excepting the name.
+
+ Same exergue as the preceding.
+
+ _Reverse_: Within a crown of laurel:
+
+ QUOD
+ IN NUTANTEM HOSTIUM ACIEM
+ SUBITO IRRUENS
+ PRAECLARUM BELLICAE VIRTUTIS
+ SPECIMEN DEDIT
+ IN PUGNA APUD COWPENS
+ 17 JAN. 1781
+
+ * * * * *
+
+C
+
+
+ Je soussigne Augustin Dupre, graveur en medaille[23] et
+ medailliste de l'Academie Royal de Peinture et Sculpture.
+
+ M'engage envers Monsieur le colonel Humphreys a graver la
+ medaille representant le portrait du general Green. Au revers la
+ Victoire foulant aux pieds des armes brisees avecque la legende
+ et l'exergue, et repond de la fracture des coins jusqu'a la
+ concurrence de vingt quatre medailles, dont j'en fourniray une en
+ or a mes frais et depend (le diametre de la medaille sera de la
+ grandeur de vingt-quatre lignes).
+
+ Le tout aux conditions suivantes, que les deux coins graves de
+ ladite medaille me seront payee la somme de deux mille quatre
+ cens livres en remettant les deux coins apres avoir frappes les
+ vingt quatre medailles que desire Monsieur le colonel.
+
+ Fait le double entre nous, ce dix-neuf novembre mille sept cens
+ quatre vingt cinq (1785) a Paris.
+
+ D. HUMPHREYS.
+ DUPRE.
+
+ [Footnote 23: The reader will detect many errors in
+ this and the following French letters. The
+ originals are copied exactly in each case.]
+
+ * * * * *
+
+D
+
+
+_Registre des Assemblees et Deliberations de l'Academie Royale des
+Inscriptions et Belles-Lettres pendant l'annee 1789._
+
+
+ Mardi 13 janvier 1789.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ Monsieur Dacier annonca ensuite que Monsieur Jefferson, ministre
+ des Etats-Unis d'Amerique, priait l'Academie de vouloir bien (p. xlii)
+ s'occuper de sujets pour les trois medailles que le Congres a
+ resolu de frapper en l'honneur du general Wayne, du major Stewart
+ et du commodore Paul Jones. Sur cette demande, la Compagnie a
+ decide que les commissaires nommes dans la seance precedente
+ seraient charges de rediger le projet de ces medailles.
+
+
+ Mardi 10 fevrier 1789.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ Monsieur Dacier a mis, au commencement de la seance, sous les
+ yeux de l'Academie, le travail de Messieurs les commissaires
+ relativement aux medailles qu'ils etaient charges de rediger.
+
+ Sur la demande de Monsieur Jefferson, ministre des Etats-Unis de
+ l'Amerique, on a corrige ainsi l'exergue de la medaille
+ anciennement composee pour le general Morgan:
+
+ FUGATIS CAPTIS AUT CAESIS AD COWPENS HOSTIBUS, 17 JAN. 1781.
+
+
+ _Medaille pour le general Wayne._
+
+ _Type_: L'Amerique, reconnaissable a son ecusson, tient de la
+ main gauche, elevee, une couronne murale, et donne, de la droite,
+ une couronne de lauriers au general incline devant elle.
+
+ _Legende_: N. WAYNE DUCI EXERCITUS.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ _Revers_: Le Rocher et le Fort de Stony Point.
+
+ _Legende_: STONY POINT EXPUGNATUM.
+
+ _Exergue_: 15 JUL. 1779.
+
+
+ _Pour le major Stewart._
+
+ _Type_: L'Amerique, debout, comme ci-dessus, donne une palme au
+ major, incline devant elle.
+
+ _Legende_: N. STEWART COHORTIS PRAEFECTO.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ _Revers_: Le major monte a l'assaut au travers d'un abatis
+ d'arbres qu'il a fait rompre par sa troupe.
+
+ _Legende_: STONY POINT OPPUGNATUM.
+
+ _Exergue_: 15 JUL. 1779.
+
+
+ _Pour le commodore Paul Jones._
+
+ _Type_: La tete du commodore.
+
+ _Legende_: PAULO JONES CLASSIS PRAEFECTO.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ _Revers_: Combat de vaisseaux.
+
+ _Legende_: PRIMUS AMERICANORUM TRIUMPHUS NAVALIS.
+
+ _Exergue_: AD ORAM SCOTIAE 23 SEPT. ANNO ...
+
+ _Autre legende_: HOSTIUM NAVIBUS CAPTIS AUT FUGATIS.
+
+ _Exergue_: Comme de l'autre part.
+
+[Translation.] (p. xliii)
+
+_Register of the Meetings and Deliberations of the Royal Academy of
+Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres during the year 1789._
+
+ Tuesday, January 13, 1789.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ M. Dacier then announced that Mr. Jefferson, Minister of the
+ United States of America, begged the academy kindly to occupy
+ itself with the subjects of the three medals which Congress has
+ resolved to strike in honor of General Wayne, Major Stewart, and
+ Commodore Paul Jones. According to this request, the company have
+ decided that the commissioners[24] named in the preceding sitting
+ shall be charged with the composition of these medals.
+
+ [Footnote 24: These were Messrs. l'abbe Barthelemy,
+ l'abbe Garnier, l'abbe Le Blond, l'abbe Brotier, de
+ Vauvillier, Dupuis, and D. Poirier.]
+
+
+ Tuesday, February 10, 1789.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ M. Dacier submitted to the academy at the opening of the sitting,
+ the report of the commissioners in reference to the medals, with
+ the composition of which they had been intrusted.
+
+ At the suggestion of Mr. Jefferson, Minister of the United States
+ of America, the exergue of the medal formerly composed for
+ General Morgan was altered as follows:
+
+ FUGATIS CAPTIS AUT CAESIS AD COWPENS HOSTIBUS 17 JAN. 1781.
+
+
+ _Medal for General Wayne._
+
+ _Device_: America, recognizable by her shield, holds in her left
+ hand, which is elevated, a mural crown, and presents with her
+ right a crown of laurels to the general, who bends before her.
+
+ _Legend_: N. WAYNE DUCI EXERCITUS.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ _Reverse_: The Rock and the Fort of Stony Point.
+
+ _Legend_: STONY POINT EXPUGNATUM.
+
+ _Exergue_: 15 JUL. 1779.
+
+
+ _For Major Stewart._
+
+ _Device_: America, standing as above, presents a palm to the
+ major, who bends before her.
+
+ _Legend_: N. STEWART COHORTIS PRAEFECTO.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ _Reverse_: The major mounts to the assault through an abatis of
+ trees, which his men have broken through.
+
+ _Legend_: STONY POINT OPPUGNATUM.
+
+ _Exergue_: 15 JUL. 1779.
+
+
+ _For Commodore Paul Jones._ (p. xliv)
+
+ _Device_: The head of the commodore.
+
+ _Legend_: PAULO JONES CLASSIS PRAEFECTO.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ _Reverse_: A naval engagement.
+
+ _Legend_: PRIMUS AMERICANORUM TRIUMPHUS NAVALIS.
+
+ _Exergue_: AD ORAM SCOTIAE 23 SEPT. ANNO ...
+
+ _Another legend_: HOSTIUM NAVIBUS CAPTIS AUT FUGATIS.[25]
+
+ [Footnote 25: The accepted legend.]
+
+ _Exergue_: Same as above.
+
+ * * * * *
+
+E
+
+
+ A Monsieur
+ Monsieur DUPRE,
+ Graveur en medaille et medailliste de l'Academie
+ Royale de Peinture et Sculpture.
+
+ Monsieur Jefferson ayant recu des ordres au sujet des medailles a
+ faire seroit bien aise d'en traiter avec Monsieur Dupre, s'il
+ voudrait bien lui faire l'honneur de passer chez lui demain matin
+ avant les onze heures.
+
+ Samedi 3me janvier 1789.
+
+
+ Monsieur Jefferson a l'honneur d'envoyer a Monsieur Dupre les
+ devises des medailles pour le general Morgan et le contre-amiral
+ Paul Jones qu'il vient de recevoir de l'Academie des
+ Belles-Lettres, et dont il propose a Monsieur Dupre l'entreprise,
+ en repondant du succes des coins jusqu'a frapper trois cents
+ cinquante de chaque medaille en or, argent ou bronze, et d'en
+ fournir les epreuves en etain au fin du mois de mars prochain, a
+ fin que les medailles peuvent etre frappees toutes avant le 15me
+ avril. Il le prie d'avoir la bonte de lui indiquer les conditions
+ auxquelles il les entreprendra, et Monsieur Jefferson aura
+ l'honneur d'y repondre au moment qu'il les recevra.
+
+ Ce 13me fevrier 1789.
+
+
+ _Medaille pour le general Morgan, de 24 lignes de diametre._
+
+ Le general a la tete de son armee charge l'ennemi, qui prend la
+ fuite.
+
+ _Legende_: VICTORIA LIBERTATIS VINDEX.
+
+ _Exergue_: FUGATIS CAPTIS AUT CAESIS AD COWPENS HOSTIBUS 17 JAN.
+ 1781.
+
+ _Revers_: L'Amerique reconnaissable a son ecusson appuie sa main
+ gauche sur une trophee d'armes et de drapeaux, et de la droite,
+ couronne le general incline devant elle.
+
+ _Legende_: DANIELI MORGAN DUCI EXERCITUS.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+
+ _Medaille pour le contre-amiral John Paul Jones, de 24 (p. xlv)
+ lignes._
+
+ _Type_: Sa tete (M. Houdon fournira le buste en platre).
+
+ _Legende_: JOANNI PAULO JONES CLASSIS PRAEFECTO.
+
+ _Exergue_: COMITIA AMERICANA.
+
+ _Revers_: Combat de vaisseaux.
+
+ _Legende_: HOSTIUM NAVIBUS CAPTIS AUT FUGATIS.
+
+ _Exergue_: AD ORAM SCOTIAE 23 SEPT. 1779.
+
+ * * * * *
+
+F
+
+
+ A Monsieur
+ Monsieur DUPRE,
+ Graveur en medailles, a Paris.
+
+ Monsieur Jefferson a l'honneur d'observer a Monsieur Dupre qu'il
+ ne donne pas pour les medailles de 24 lignes ni a Monsieur
+ Duvivier ni a Monsieur Gatteaux que 2,400 livres, que c'est la ce
+ qu'il a paye a Monsieur Dupre aussi pour celle du general Greene,
+ et que Monsieur Dupre n'a demande que ca dernierement pour celle
+ du general Morgan. Monsieur Jefferson ne peut pas consentir donc
+ de donner plus. A ce prix, il attendroit ce que Monsieur Dupre
+ pourrait faire de mieux, de soi-meme, et non pas par des artistes
+ subalternes. Pour ce qui regarde le temps, peut etre qu'il seroit
+ possible de le prolonger un peu pour la medaille de l'amiral Paul
+ Jones, cet officier etant actuellement en Europe. Monsieur
+ Jefferson aura l'honneur d'attendre la reponse de Monsieur Dupre
+ et sera charme de pouvoir conclure cet arrangement avec lui.
+
+ Ce 15me fevrier 1789.
+
+ * * * * *
+
+G
+
+
+ EXPLICATION des Peintures, Sculptures et Gravures de Messieurs de
+ l'Academie Royale, dont l'Exposition a ete ordonnee, suivant
+ l'intention de Sa Majeste, par M. le Comte de la Billarderie
+ d'Angeviller, Conseiller du Roi en ses conseils, Mestre-de-Camp
+ de Cavalerie, Chevalier de l'ordre Royal et Militaire de
+ Saint-Louis, Commandeur de l'ordre de Saint-Lazare, Intendant du
+ Jardin du Roi, Directeur et Ordonnateur General des Batiments de
+ Sa Majeste, Jardins, Arts, Academies & Manufactures Royales; de
+ l'Academie Royale des Sciences.
+
+ A Paris, rue Saint-Jacques,
+
+ De l'Imprimerie de la veuve Herissant, Imprimeur du Roi, des
+ Cabinet, Maison et Batiments de Sa Majeste; de l'Academie Royale
+ de Peinture, etc.
+ M.DCC.LXXXI.
+
+ Avec privilege du Roi.
+
+
+ _Gravures._ (p. xlvi)
+
+ Par M. DUVIVIER, academicien, graveur general des Monnoies de
+ France & des Medailles du Roi.
+
+ 294.--Sous un meme cadre et sous un meme numero.
+ 1. *** ...
+ 2. *** ...
+ 3. *** ...
+ 4. Medaille ordonnee par les Etats-Unis de l'Amerique, a l'honneur
+ de M. le Chevalier de Fleury, pour s'etre distingue a la prise
+ de Stony Point, en 1779.
+
+
+ EXPLICATION des Peintures, Sculptures et Gravures de Messieurs de
+ l'Academie Royale, dont l'Exposition a ete ordonnee, suivant
+ l'intention de Sa Majeste, par M. le Comte de la Billarderie
+ d'Angeviller, Conseiller du Roi en ses conseils, Mestre-de-Camp
+ de Cavalerie, Chevalier de l'ordre Royal et Militaire de
+ Saint-Louis, Commandeur de l'ordre de Saint-Lazare, Gouverneur de
+ Rambouillet, Directeur et Ordonnateur General des Batiments de Sa
+ Majeste, Jardins, Arts, Academies et Manufactures Royales; de
+ l'Academie Royale des Sciences.
+
+ A Paris,
+
+ De l'Imprimerie des Batiments du Roi et de l'Academie Royale de
+ Peinture.
+
+ M.DCC.LXXXIX.
+
+ Avec privilege du Roi.
+
+
+ _Gravures._
+
+ Par M. DUVIVIER, graveur general des Monnoies et des Medailles du
+ Roi.
+
+ 1. *** ...
+ 2. *** ...
+ 3. *** ...
+ 4. *** ...
+ 5. Buste du General Washington, & au revers, Evacuation de Boston,
+ 1776.
+ 6 & 7. Medailles pour le Colonel Washington et le Colonel Howard.
+ ces trois medailles sont pour les Etats-Unis de l'Amerique.
+
+[Translation.]
+
+ EXPLANATION of the Paintings, Sculptures, and Engravings of the
+ Gentlemen of the Royal Academy, of which the Exhibition has been
+ ordered, according to the intention of His Majesty, by the Count
+ de la Billarderie d'Angeviller, Councillor of the King in His
+ Councils, Master-of-Camp of Cavalry, Knight of the Royal and
+ Military Order of St. Louis, Commander of the Order of Saint
+ Lazare, Intendant of the Garden of the King, Director and
+ Ordonnator-General of His Majesty's Buildings, Gardens, Arts and
+ Royal Academies and Manufactures; of the Royal Academy of
+ Sciences.
+
+ Paris, Rue Saint Jacques,
+
+ From the Printing Office of widow Herissant, Printer to the King,
+ to the Cabinet, Household and Buildings of His Majesty; of the
+ Royal Academy of Paintings, etc.
+
+ M.DCC.LXXXI.
+
+ With the privilege of the King.
+
+
+ _Engravings._ (p. xlvii)
+
+ By M. Duvivier, Academician, engraver-general of the Moneys of
+ France and of the Medals of the King.
+
+ 294--In the same case and under the same number.
+ 1. *** ...
+ 2. *** ...
+ 3. *** ...
+ 4. Medal ordered by the United States of America in honor of the
+ Chevalier de Fleury, for having distinguished himself at the
+ taking of Stony Point, in 1779.
+
+
+ EXPLANATION of the Paintings, Sculptures, and Engravings of the
+ Gentlemen of the Royal Academy, of which the Exhibition has been
+ ordered, according to the intention of His Majesty, by the Count
+ de la Billarderie d'Angeviller, Councillor of the King in His
+ Councils, Master-of-Camp of Cavalry, Knight of the Royal and
+ Military Order of Saint Louis, Commander of the Order of Saint
+ Lazare, Governor of Rambouillet, Director and Ordonnator-General
+ of His Majesty's Buildings, Gardens, Arts, and Royal Academies
+ and Manufactures; of the Royal Academy of Sciences.
+
+ PARIS.
+
+ From the Printing Office of the Building of the King and of the
+ Royal Academy of Painting.
+
+ M.DCC.LXXXIX.
+
+ With the privilege of the King.
+
+
+ _Engravings._
+
+ By M. Duvivier, engraver-general of the Moneys and of the Medals
+ of the King.
+
+ 1. *** ...
+ 2. *** ...
+ 3. *** ...
+ 4. *** ...
+ 5. Bust of General Washington, and on the reverse, Evacuation of
+ Boston, 1776.
+ 6 and 7. Medals for Colonel Washington and Colonel Howard.
+ These three medals are for the United States of America.
+
+ * * * * *
+
+H
+
+
+ MINT OF THE UNITED STATES,
+ Honorable Philadelphia, November 22, 1861.
+ William L. DAYTON,
+ Minister of the United States at the Court of France.
+
+ Dear Sir: During the Revolutionary War, medals were awarded by
+ resolution of the Continental Congress to certain officers who
+ commanded the American forces in the principal conflicts with the
+ enemy, or participated therein. The dies for these medals were
+ prepared in Paris, and the medals produced there. Several of the
+ dies in question are understood to be in the possession of the
+ Mint of Medals at Paris. As we have recently prepared, for (p. xlviii)
+ distribution, bronze medals from the national medal dies in our
+ country, it would be very gratifying if the American medal dies,
+ at the French Mint, could be procured and the series made complete.
+ The medals that were prepared for us in Paris are interesting
+ memorials of some of the most remarkable events in our history,
+ and the appropriate place for the dies would appear to be in
+ the National Mint of the United States.
+
+ May I request the favor of you to ascertain, from the proper
+ official source, what medal dies, relating to events connected
+ with the history of the United States, are at the mint in Paris,
+ and whether the same can be obtained. If not, I should be glad to
+ have, say twenty copies in bronze, struck from the dies, provided
+ the expense would not be too great.
+
+ Inclosed I send you a list of the medals recently struck in
+ bronze from the dies of a public character in our possession. It
+ will be seen that it is deficient in medals of the Revolutionary
+ era.
+
+ The following American medal dies are believed to be at the French
+ Mint of Medals:
+
+ Washington before Boston.
+ General Wayne, for capture of Stony Point.
+ Colonel Fleury, for same.
+ Captain Stewart, for same.
+ Major Lee, for capture of Paulus Hook.
+ Colonel John Eager Howard, for Cowpens.
+ Colonel William Washington, for same.
+ Major General Greene, for Eutaw Springs.
+ Captain John Paul Jones, for capture of the Serapis by the
+ Bonhomme Richard.
+
+ Your attention to the request contained herein will greatly
+ oblige,
+ Your friend and obedient servant,
+ James POLLOCK,
+ Director of the Mint.
+
+
+ To His Excellency, Legation of the United States,
+ Monsieur THOUVENEL, Paris, December 10, 1861.
+ Minister of Foreign Affairs, etc., Paris.
+
+ Monsieur le Ministre: I have received from the Director of the
+ Mint of the United States a letter (of which I annex a copy),
+ calling me to procure a certain series of medals prepared in
+ Paris to commemorate certain events in the history of the
+ American Revolution.
+
+ These dies having been prepared in Paris, and the medals struck
+ here, it is supposed the former yet remain in some safe
+ depository.
+
+ If it is possible to procure the original dies, I am requested to
+ do so; if that be not possible, I should be happy to learn if I
+ can procure copies.
+
+ I avail myself of the occasion to renew to Your Excellency the
+ assurance of the high consideration with which I have the honor
+ to be,
+ Your obedient servant,
+ W. L. DAYTON.
+
+
+ Monsieur DAYTON, Paris, le 17 janvier 1862. (p. xlix)
+ Ministre des Etats-Unis a Paris.
+
+ Monsieur: Par la lettre que vous m'avez fait l'honneur de
+ m'adresser le 10 decembre dernier, vous m'exprimiez le desir
+ d'etre mis en possession des coins d'un certain nombre de
+ medailles commemoratives d'evenements de la guerre de
+ l'Independance qui ont ete frappees a Paris. Monsieur le Ministre
+ des Finances a qui j'avais du ecrire a ce sujet, me repond que le
+ Musee Monetaire ne possede les coins que de quatre de ces
+ medailles. La prise de Boston, la prise de Serapis, bataille de
+ Cowpens--Washington, et bataille de Cowpens--Howard. Le musee ne
+ pourrait se dessaisir de ces coins, mais il serait facile,
+ moyennant une legere depense, de faire frapper de nouveaux
+ exemplaires; il faudrait seulement, si la proposition etait agree
+ par le gouvernement Federal, que vous me fissiez parvenir
+ l'indication precise du nombre d'exemplaires de chacune de ces
+ medailles qu'il desirerait obtenir.
+
+ Agreez les assurances de la haute consideration avec laquelle
+ j'ai l'honneur d'etre,
+ Monsieur,
+ Votre tres humble et tres obeissant serviteur,
+ Pour le ministre et par autorisation,
+ Le Ministre Plenipotentiaire Directeur,
+ BANNEVILLE.
+
+[Translation.]
+
+ Mr. DAYTON, Paris, January 17, 1862.
+ Minister of the United States, Paris.
+
+ Sir: By the letter which you did me the honor to address to me on
+ the 10th of December last, you expressed to me the desire to
+ obtain the dies of a certain number of medals, commemorative of
+ events of the War of Independence, which were struck in Paris.
+ The Minister of Finance, to whom I had to write on the subject,
+ replies that the Museum of the Mint possesses the dies of only
+ four of these medals: the taking of Boston, the capture of the
+ Serapis, the battle of the Cowpens--Washington, and the battle of
+ the Cowpens--Howard. The museum cannot part with these dies, but
+ it will be easy, at a small outlay, to have new copies struck; it
+ will only be necessary, if the proposition is accepted by the
+ Federal Government, for you to indicate to me the precise number
+ of copies of each of these medals which it wishes to obtain.
+
+ Receive the assurances of the high consideration with which I
+ have the honor to be,
+ Sir,
+ Your very humble and very obedient servant,
+ For the minister and by authorization,
+ The Minister Plenipotentiary Director,
+ BANNEVILLE.
+
+
+ To His Excellency, Legation of the United States,
+ Monsieur THOUVENEL, Paris, January 23, 1862.
+ Minister of Foreign Affairs, etc., Paris.
+
+ Monsieur Le Ministre: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt
+ of your letter of the 17th instant in reference to the American
+ medal dies. I avail myself of your kind offer to have copies
+ struck from the original dies.
+
+ Be pleased to direct that twenty copies in bronze be struck (p. l)
+ from such dies, with a diameter of two and one half inches. The
+ expense will be met by this Legation immediately upon notice.
+
+ I avail myself of the opportunity to assure Your Excellency of
+ the high consideration with which I am,
+ Your humble servant,
+ W. L. DAYTON.
+
+ * * * * *
+
+I
+
+
+ A Monsieur DUPRE,
+ Graveur en medailles, a Paris.
+
+ Monsieur Jefferson va faire imprimer des explications de toutes
+ les medailles, pour les envoyer avec les medailles aux souverains
+ de l'Europe; il lui manque celle de M. Franklin, faite par M.
+ Dupre; il le prie de lui en preter une exemplaire, et de lui en
+ communiquer l'explication aussi, s'il y en a ete une de faite
+ comme il y en avait sans doute.
+
+ Ce 23 fevrier 1789.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS. (p. li)
+
+
+ Number Number
+ of Text of Plate.
+
+ 1 GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON. I
+
+ [_Boston Retaken._] Page.
+
+ Description of Medal.......................................... 1
+ Biographical Sketch of Pierre Simon Duvivier.................. 2
+ Biographical Sketch of George Washington...................... 2
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to General
+ Washington................................ March 25, 1776... 3
+ General Washington to the President of
+ Congress.................................. March 19, 1776... 4
+ The President of Congress to General
+ Washington................................. April 2, 1776... 5
+ John Adams to General Washington............. April 2, 1776... 5
+ General Washington to John Adams............ April 15, 1776... 6
+ Colonel Humphreys to General Washington.......... May, 1785... 6
+ Colonel Humphreys to Thomas Jefferson..... January 30, 1786... 6
+ Thomas Jefferson to Colonel Humphreys.......... May 7, 1786... 7
+
+
+ 2 MAJOR-GENERAL HORATIO GATES. II
+
+ [_Surrender of the British Army at Saratoga._]
+
+ Description of Medal.......................................... 8
+ Biographical Sketch of Nicolas Marie Gatteaux................. 9
+ Biographical Sketch of Horatio Gates.......................... 9
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to General
+ Gates.................................. November 4, 1777... 10
+ General Gates to the President of
+ Congress............................... October 18, 1777... 10
+ Articles of Convention between Generals Gates and
+ Burgoyne............................... October 16, 1777... 11
+ Thomas Jefferson to Colonel Humphreys.... December 4, 1785... 13
+ Colonel Humphreys to Thomas Jefferson........................ 13
+
+
+ 3 BRIGADIER-GENERAL ANTHONY WAYNE. III
+
+ [_Taking of Stony Point._]
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 14
+ Biographical Sketch of Anthony Wayne......................... 14
+ Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to General
+ Wayne, to Lieutenant-Colonel de Fleury, and to
+ Major Stewart, etc........................ July 26, 1779... 15
+ General Washington to the President of
+ Congress.................................. July 16, 1779... 16
+ General Wayne to General Washington......... July 16, 1779... 16
+ General Washington to the President of
+ Congress.................................. July 20, 1779... 16
+ General Wayne to General Washington......... July 17, 1779... 20
+
+
+ 4 LIEUTENANT-COLONEL DE FLEURY. IV (p. lii)
+
+ [_Taking of Stony Point._]
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 22
+ Biographical Sketch of Francois Louis Teisseidre de Fleury... 23
+ General Washington to the President of
+ Congress.................................. July 25, 1779... 24
+ General Washington to the President of
+ Congress.................................. July 28, 1779... 25
+ Memorial for M. de Fleury.................................... 25
+
+
+ 5 MAJOR JOHN STEWART. V
+
+ [_Taking of Stony Point._]
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 28
+ Biographical Sketch of John Stewart.......................... 28
+
+
+ 6 MAJOR HENRY LEE. VI
+
+ [_Surprise of Paulus Hook._]
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 29
+ Biographical Sketch of Joseph Wright......................... 30
+ Biographical Sketch of Henry Lee............................. 30
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to Major
+ Henry Lee, etc....................... September 24, 1779... 30
+ General Washington to the President of
+ Congress................................ August 23, 1779... 31
+ Major Henry Lee to General Washington..... August 22, 1779... 32
+
+
+ 7 JOHN PAULDING, DAVID WILLIAMS, ISAAC VAN WART. VII
+
+ [_Capture of Major Andre._]
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 37
+ Biographical Sketches of Paulding, Williams, and Van Wart.... 37
+ Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to John Paulding,
+ David Williams, and Isaac Van Wart..... November 3, 1780... 38
+ General Washington to the President of
+ Congress............................. September 26, 1780... 38
+ General Washington to the President of
+ Congress................................ October 7, 1780... 39
+
+
+ 8 BRIGADIER-GENERAL DANIEL MORGAN. VIII
+
+ [_Victory of the Cowpens._]
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 40
+ Biographical Sketch of Augustin Dupre........................ 41
+ Biographical Sketch of Daniel Morgan......................... 41
+ Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to General Morgan and
+ to Lieutenant-Colonels Washington and Howard,
+ etc....................................... March 9, 1781... 41
+ General Morgan to General Greene......... January 19, 1781... 42
+ Act of Congress Directing a Gold Copy of General Morgan's
+ Medal to be Struck for Morgan Neville...... July 2, 1836... 45
+
+
+ 9 LIEUTENANT-COLONEL WILLIAM A. WASHINGTON. IX (p. liii)
+
+ [_Victory of the Cowpens._]
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 46
+ Biographical Sketch of William Augustine Washington.......... 46
+
+
+ 10 LIEUTENANT-COLONEL JOHN EAGER HOWARD. X
+
+ [_Victory of the Cowpens._]
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 48
+ Biographical Sketch of John Eager Howard..................... 48
+
+
+ 11 MAJOR-GENERAL NATHANIEL GREENE. XI
+
+ [_Victory of Eutaw Springs._]
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 50
+ Biographical Sketch of Nathaniel Greene...................... 50
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to General
+ Greene, etc............................ October 29, 1781... 51
+ General Greene to the President of
+ Congress............................. September 11, 1781... 52
+ John Jay to Major William Pierce and
+ others................................ February 12, 1788... 56
+
+
+ 12 ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
+ BY THE UNITED NETHERLANDS. XII
+
+ [_Libera Soror._]
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 57
+ Biographical Sketch of John George Holtzhey.................. 58
+ John Adams to Robert R. Livingston......... April 19, 1782... 58
+ Extracts from the Register Books of the States of
+ the Netherlands.................................... 1782... 58
+ Original Documents from the Royal Archives at the
+ Hague.............................................. 1782... 64
+ John Adams to Robert R. Livingston......... April 22, 1782... 72
+
+
+ 13 TREATY OF AMITY AND COMMERCE BETWEEN THE UNITED
+ STATES OF AMERICA AND THE UNITED NETHERLANDS. XIII
+
+ [_Favstissimo Foedere Jvnctae._]
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 74
+ Treaty between the United Netherlands and the United
+ States of America....................... October 8, 1782... 75
+ Convention between the United Netherlands and the
+ United States of America................ October 8, 1782... 84
+
+
+ 14 LIBERTAS AMERICANA. XIV (p. liv)
+
+ [_Surrender of the British Armies at Saratoga and at Yorktown._]
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 86
+ General Washington to the President of
+ Congress............................... October 19, 1781... 87
+ General Washington to the President of
+ Congress............................... October 27, 1781... 88
+ Resolutions of Congress Voting Thanks, etc., for the
+ Taking of Yorktown..................... October 29, 1781... 88
+ Benjamin Franklin to Robert R. Livingston... March 4, 1782... 90
+ Benjamin Franklin to Sir William Jones..... March 17, 1783... 90
+ Benjamin Franklin to Robert R. Livingston.. April 15, 1783... 90
+ Benjamin Franklin to Robert R. Livingston... July 22, 1783... 91
+ Benjamin Franklin to the Grand Master of
+ Malta..................................... April 6, 1783... 91
+ The Grand Master of Malta to Benjamin
+ Franklin.................................. June 21, 1783... 92
+
+
+ 15 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN. XV
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 93
+ Biographical Sketch of Benjamin Franklin..................... 93
+
+
+ 16 BENJAMIN FRANKLIN. XVI
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 95
+ William Short to Thomas Jefferson........... June 14, 1790... 95
+ Thomas Jefferson to the President of the National
+ Assembly of France........................ March 8, 1791... 96
+
+
+ 17 CAPTAIN JOHN PAUL JONES. XVII
+
+ [_Capture of the Serapis._]
+
+ Description of Medal......................................... 97
+ Biographical Sketch of John Paul Jones....................... 98
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to the
+ Chevalier John Paul Jones.............. October 16, 1787... 98
+ Captain John Paul Jones to Benjamin
+ Franklin................................ October 3, 1779... 99
+ M. de Sartine to the President of Congress... May 30, 1780.. 109
+ M. de Sartine to Commodore John Paul Jones.. June 28, 1780.. 109
+ Resolution of Congress Authorizing Captain Jones to Accept
+ from the King of France the Cross of Military
+ Merit................................. February 27, 1781.. 110
+ The United States to the King of France.. October 19, 1787.. 110
+ Thomas Jefferson to General Washington........ May 2, 1788.. 111
+ Admiral John Paul Jones to Thomas
+ Jefferson.................. August 29--September 9, 1788.. 112
+
+
+ 18 PRESIDENT GEORGE WASHINGTON. XVIII
+ XIX
+
+ [_First President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 113
+ Indian Peace Medals......................................... 113
+
+
+ 19 THE DIPLOMATIC MEDAL. XX (p. lv)
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 115
+ Biographical Sketch of Cesar Anne de la Luzerne............. 116
+ Biographical Sketch of Eleonore Francois Elie de Moustier... 116
+ John Adams to the President of Congress... August 3, 1779... 117
+ Thomas Jefferson to William Short......... April 30, 1790... 117
+ Thomas Jefferson to the Marquis de la
+ Luzerne................................. April 30, 1790... 118
+ William Short to Thomas Jefferson.......... June 14, 1790... 119
+ Thomas Jefferson to William Short.......... July 26, 1790... 119
+ Thomas Jefferson to the Count de Moustier.. March 2, 1791... 120
+ Thomas Jefferson to William Short.......... March 8, 1791... 120
+ William Short to Thomas Jefferson........... June 6, 1791... 121
+ William Short to Thomas Jefferson..... September 25, 1791... 121
+ William Short to M. Dupre................................... 122
+ M. de Moustier to M. Dupre.................................. 123
+ William Short to Thomas Jefferson....... February 8, 1792... 124
+ M. Lagrange to William Short............ January 31, 1792... 124
+
+
+ 20 PRESIDENT JOHN ADAMS. XXI
+
+ [_Second President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 127
+ Biographical Sketch of John Adams........................... 127
+
+
+ 21 CAPTAIN THOMAS TRUXTUN. XXII
+
+ [_Action with the Vengeance._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 128
+ Biographical Sketch of Thomas Truxtun....................... 128
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to Captain
+ Truxtun, etc............................ March 29, 1800... 129
+ Captain Thomas Truxtun to the Secretary of the
+ Navy.................................. February 3, 1800... 130
+ Journal of Captain Truxtun of Occurrences on board
+ the United States Ship Constellation.. February 1, 1800... 130
+ President John Adams to the Secretary of the
+ Navy.................................... March 31, 1800... 132
+ John Adams to Captain Thomas Truxtun... November 30, 1802... 132
+
+
+ 22 PRESIDENT THOMAS JEFFERSON. XXIII
+
+ [_Third President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 133
+ Biographical Sketch of John Reich........................... 133
+ Biographical Sketch of Thomas Jefferson..................... 133
+
+
+ 23 COMMODORE EDWARD PREBLE. XXIV (p. lvi)
+
+ [_Naval operations against Tripoli._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 135
+ Biographical Sketch of Edward Preble........................ 135
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to Commodore
+ Preble................................... March 3, 1805... 136
+ President Thomas Jefferson to Congress. February 20, 1805... 136
+ Commodore Preble to the Secretary of the
+ Navy................................ September 18, 1804... 137
+ R. Smith to George Harrison................ June 26, 1805... 150
+
+
+ 24 PRESIDENT JAMES MADISON. XXV
+
+ [_Fourth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 151
+ Biographical Sketch of James Madison........................ 152
+
+
+ 25 CAPTAIN ISAAC HULL. XXVI
+
+ [_Capture of the Guerriere._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 153
+ Biographical Sketch of Isaac Hull........................... 153
+ Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to Captains Hull,
+ Decatur, Jones, etc................... January 29, 1813... 154
+ Captain Hull to the Secretary of the Navy.. July 21, 1812... 155
+ Captain Hull to the Secretary of the
+ Navy................................... August 30, 1812... 157
+ Captain Hull to the Secretary of the
+ Navy................................... August 30, 1812... 159
+
+
+ 26 CAPTAIN JACOB JONES. XXVII
+
+ [_Capture of the Frolic._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 160
+ Biographical Sketch of Moritz Fuerst......................... 160
+ Biographical Sketch of Jacob Jones.......................... 161
+ Captain Jacob Jones to the Secretary of the
+ Navy................................. November 24, 1812... 161
+
+
+ 27 CAPTAIN STEPHEN DECATUR. XXVIII
+
+ [_Capture of the Macedonian._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 163
+ Biographical Sketch of Stephen Decatur...................... 163
+ Captain Decatur to the Secretary of the
+ Navy.................................. October 30, 1812... 164
+
+
+ 28 CAPTAIN WILLIAM BAINBRIDGE. XXIX (p. lvii)
+
+ [_Capture of the Java._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 166
+ Biographical Sketch of William Bainbridge................... 166
+ Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captain
+ Bainbridge, etc.......................... March 3, 1813... 167
+ Captain Bainbridge to the Secretary of the
+ Navy................................... January 3, 1813... 167
+ Extract from Captain Bainbridge's
+ Journal.............................. December 30, 1812... 168
+ H. D. Corneck to Lieutenant Wood......... January 1, 1813... 170
+
+
+ 29 LIEUTENANT EDWARD RUTLEDGE McCALL. XXX
+
+ [_Capture of the Boxer._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 171
+ Biographical Sketch of Edward Rutledge McCall............... 171
+ Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Lieutenants
+ McCall. Burrows, etc................... January 6, 1814... 172
+ Captain Hull to the Secretary of the
+ Navy................................ September 14, 1813... 172
+ Lieutenant McCall to Captain Hull...... September 7, 1813... 173
+
+
+ 30 LIEUTENANT WILLIAM BURROWS. XXXI
+
+ [_Capture of the Boxer._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 174
+ Biographical Sketch of William Burrows...................... 174
+
+
+ 31 CAPTAIN OLIVER HAZARD PERRY. XXXII
+
+ [_Victory of Lake Erie._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 176
+ Biographical Sketch of Oliver Hazard Perry.................. 176
+ Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to Captains
+ Perry, Elliott, etc.................... January 6, 1814... 177
+ Captain Perry to the Secretary of the
+ Navy................................ September 10, 1813... 178
+ Captain Perry to the Secretary of the
+ Navy................................ September 13, 1813... 178
+ The Secretary of the Navy to George
+ Harrison.................................. July 4, 1814... 180
+
+
+ 32 CAPTAIN JESSE DUNCAN ELLIOTT. XXXIII
+
+ [_Victory of Lake Erie._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 183
+ Biographical Sketch of Jesse Duncan Elliott................. 183
+
+
+ 33 CAPTAIN JAMES LAWRENCE. XXXIV (p. lviii)
+
+ [_Captain of the Peacock._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 185
+ Biographical Sketch of James Lawrence....................... 185
+ Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captain Lawrence,
+ etc................................... January 11, 1814... 186
+ Captain Lawrence to the Secretary of the
+ Navy.................................... March 19, 1813... 186
+
+
+ 34 CAPTAIN THOMAS MACDONOUGH. XXXV
+
+ [_Victory of Lake Champlain._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 189
+ Biographical Sketch of Thomas Macdonough.................... 189
+ Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captains
+ Macdonough and Henley, Lieutenant Cassin,
+ etc................................... October 20, 1814... 190
+ Resolution of Congress Complimentary to Lieutenant
+ Silas Duncan.............................. May 13, 1826... 190
+ Captain Macdonough to the Secretary of the
+ Navy................................ September 11, 1814... 191
+ Captain Macdonough to the Secretary of the
+ Navy................................ September 13, 1814... 191
+
+
+ 35 CAPTAIN ROBERT HENLEY. XXXVI
+
+ [_Victory of Lake Champlain._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 193
+ Biographical Sketch of Robert Henley........................ 194
+
+
+ 36 LIEUTENANT STEPHEN CASSIN. XXXVII
+
+ [_Victory of Lake Champlain._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 195
+ Biographical Sketch of Stephen Cassin....................... 196
+
+
+ 37 CAPTAIN LEWIS WARRINGTON. XXXVIII
+
+ [_Capture of the Epervier._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 197
+ Biographical Sketch of Lewis Warrington..................... 197
+ Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captain
+ Warrington, etc....................... October 21, 1814... 198
+ Captain Warrington to the Secretary of the
+ Navy.................................... April 29, 1814... 198
+
+
+ 38 CAPTAIN JOHNSTON BLAKELEY. XXXIX
+
+ [_Capture of the Reindeer._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 200
+ Biographical Sketch of Johnston Blakeley.................... 201
+ Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captain
+ Blakeley, etc......................... November 3, 1814... 201
+ Captain Blakeley to the Secretary of the
+ Navy...................................... July 8, 1814... 201
+
+
+ 39 MAJOR-GENERAL JACOB BROWN. XL (p. lix)
+
+ [_Victories of Chippewa, Niagara, and Erie._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 203
+ Biographical Sketch of Jacob Brown.......................... 203
+ Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to Generals Brown,
+ Scott, Porter, Gaines, Macomb, Ripley and
+ Miller................................ November 3, 1814... 204
+ General Brown to the Secretary of War....... July 7, 1814... 205
+ General Orders.............................. July 6, 1814... 208
+ General Brown to the Secretary of War....... August, 1814... 208
+ General Brown to the Secretary of War. September 29, 1814... 211
+ General Brown to the Secretary of War.... October 1, 1814... 214
+
+
+ 40 MAJOR-GENERAL PETER BUEL PORTER. XLI
+
+ [_Victories of Chippewa, Niagara, and Erie._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 215
+ Biographical Sketch of Peter Buel Porter.................... 215
+ General Porter to General Brown........September 22, 1814... 216
+
+
+ 41 BRIGADIER-GENERAL ELEAZER WHEELOCK RIPLEY. XLII
+
+ [_Victories of Chippewa, Niagara, and Erie._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 219
+ Biographical Sketch of Eleazer Wheelock Ripley.............. 219
+ General Ripley to General Gaines. August 17, 1814........... 220
+
+
+ 42 BRIGADIER-GENERAL JAMES MILLER. XLIII
+
+ [_Victories of Chippewa, Niagara, and Erie._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 223
+ Biographical Sketch of James Miller......................... 223
+
+
+ 43 MAJOR-GENERAL WINFIELD SCOTT. XLIV
+
+ [_Victories of Chippewa and Niagara._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 224
+ Biographical Sketch of Winfield Scott....................... 224
+
+
+ 44 MAJOR-GENERAL EDMUND PENDLETON GAINES. XLV
+
+ [_Victory of Erie._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 226
+ Biographical Sketch of Edmund Pendleton Gaines.............. 226
+ General Gaines to the Secretary of War... August 15, 1814... 227
+ General Gaines to the Secretary of War... August 23, 1814... 227
+ General Gaines to the Secretary of War... August 26, 1814... 231
+
+
+ 45 MAJOR-GENERAL ALEXANDER MACOMB. XLVI (p. lx)
+
+ [_Victory of Plattsburgh._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 233
+ Biographical Sketch of Alexander Macomb..................... 233
+ General Macomb to the Secretary of
+ War................................. September 15, 1814... 234
+ Resolution of Congress Voting Rifles to Martin
+ J. Aitkin and others...................... May 20, 1826... 237
+
+
+ 46 MAJOR-GENERAL ANDREW JACKSON. XLVII
+
+ [_Victory of New Orleans._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 238
+ Biographical Sketch of Andrew Jackson....................... 238
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to General
+ Jackson.............................. February 27, 1815... 239
+ General Jackson to the Secretary of War. January 13, 1815... 240
+ General Jackson to the Secretary of War. January 19, 1815... 241
+ General Jackson's Farewell Address to his
+ Army....................................... March, 1815... 242
+ Resolutions of Congress complimentary to Commodore
+ D. T. Patterson and others........... February 15, 1815... 243
+ Resolutions of Congress complimentary to the People of the
+ State of Louisiana, etc.............. February 15, 1815... 244
+
+
+ 47 CAPTAIN CHARLES STEWART. XLVIII
+
+ [_Capture of the Cyane and of the Levant._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 245
+ Biographical Sketch of Charles Stewart...................... 245
+ Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captain
+ Stewart, etc......................... February 22, 1816... 246
+ Captain Stewart to the Secretary of the Navy... May, 1815... 246
+ Minutes of the Action between the Constitution,
+ Cyane, and Levant.................... February 20, 1815... 247
+
+
+ 48 CAPTAIN JAMES BIDDLE. XLIX
+
+ [_Capture of the Penguin._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 249
+ Biographical Sketch of James Biddle......................... 249
+ Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captain
+ Biddle, etc.......................... February 22, 1816... 250
+ Captain Biddle to the Secretary of the
+ Navy.................................... March 25, 1815... 250
+
+
+ 49 PRESIDENT JAMES MONROE. L
+
+ [_Fifth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 253
+ Biographical Sketch of James Monroe......................... 253
+
+
+ 50 MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON. LI (p. lxi)
+
+ [_Victory of the Thames._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 254
+ Biographical Sketch of William Henry Harrison............... 254
+ Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to General Harrison
+ and Governor Shelby, etc................. April 4, 1818... 255
+ General Harrison to the Secretary of War. October 5, 1813... 255
+ General Harrison to the Secretary of War. October 9, 1813... 256
+ General Orders of Debarkation, of March, and of
+ Battle.............................. September 27, 1813... 261
+
+
+ 51 GOVERNOR ISAAC SHELBY. LII
+
+ [_Victory of the Thames._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 265
+ Biographical Sketch of Isaac Shelby......................... 265
+
+
+ 52 TREATY OF COMMERCE WITH FRANCE. LIII
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 266
+ Biographical Sketch of Bertrand Andrieu..................... 266
+ Biographical Sketch of Raymond Gayrard...................... 267
+ Treaty of Commerce with France............. June 24, 1822... 267
+
+
+ 53 PRESIDENT JOHN QUINCY ADAMS. LIV
+
+ [_Sixth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 270
+ Biographical Sketch of John Quincy Adams.................... 270
+
+
+ 54 PRESIDENT ANDREW JACKSON. LV
+
+ [_Seventh President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 271
+
+
+ 55 COLONEL GEORGE CROGHAN. LVI
+
+ [_Defence of Fort Stephenson._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 272
+ Biographical Sketch of George Croghan....................... 272
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to Colonel Croghan,
+ etc.................................. February 13, 1835... 273
+ Major Croghan to General Harrison......... August 5, 1813... 273
+
+
+ 56 PRESIDENT MARTIN VAN BUREN. LVII (p. lxii)
+
+ [_Eighth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 275
+ Biographical Sketch of Martin Van Buren..................... 275
+
+
+ 57 PRESIDENT JOHN TYLER. LVIII
+
+ [_Tenth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 276
+ Biographical Sketch of John Tyler........................... 276
+ R. M. Patterson to J. C. Spencer........ November 2, 1841... 277
+ J. C. Spencer to R. M. Patterson....... November 13, 1841... 278
+ R. M. Patterson to John C. Spencer.... September 17, 1842... 279
+ D. Parker to R. M. Patterson.......... September 21, 1842... 279
+
+
+ 58 PRESIDENT JAMES KNOX POLK. LIX
+
+ [_Eleventh President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 280
+ Biographical Sketch of James Knox Polk...................... 280
+
+
+ 59 MAJOR-GENERAL ZACHARY TAYLOR. LX
+
+ [_Victories on the Rio Grande._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 281
+ Biographical Sketch of Zachary Taylor....................... 281
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to
+ General Taylor........................... July 16, 1846... 282
+ General Taylor to the Adjutant-General of the
+ Army....................................... May 9, 1846... 282
+ General Taylor to the Adjutant-General of the
+ Army....................................... May 9, 1846... 283
+ General Order Congratulating the Army....... May 11, 1846... 284
+ General Taylor to the Adjutant-General of the
+ Army...................................... May 16, 1846... 285
+ The Secretary of War to Doctor
+ Patterson............................. December 9, 1846... 287
+ Doctor Patterson to the Secretary of
+ War.................................. December 12, 1846... 288
+
+
+ 60 MAJOR-GENERAL ZACHARY TAYLOR. LXI
+
+ [_Taking of Monterey._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 290
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to General
+ Taylor................................... March 2, 1847... 290
+ General Taylor to the Adjutant-General of the
+ Army................................... October 9, 1846... 291
+
+
+ 61 LOSS OF THE UNITED STATES BRIG-OF-WAR SOMERS. LXII (p. lxiii)
+
+ [_For Having Saved the Lives of Americans._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 299
+ Biographical Sketch of Charles Gushing Wright............... 299
+ Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to British, French, and
+ Spanish Officers, etc.................... March 3, 1847... 300
+ Lieutenant Semmes to Commodore M. C.
+ Perry,............................... December 10, 1846... 300
+
+
+ 62 MAJOR-GENERAL WINFIELD SCOTT. LXIII
+
+ [_Mexican Campaign._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 304
+ Biographical Sketch of Salathiel Ellis...................... 304
+ Biographical Sketch of G. C. Humphries...................... 304
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to General
+ Scott.................................... March 9, 1848... 305
+ General Scott to the Secretary of War..... March 12, 1847... 305
+ General Scott to the Secretary of War..... March 23, 1847... 307
+ General Scott to the Secretary of War..... March 29, 1847... 309
+ Terms of Capitulation for the Surrender of Vera Cruz, etc... 310
+ General Scott to the Secretary of War..... April 19, 1847... 311
+ General Orders No. 111.................... April 17, 1847... 314
+ General Scott to the Secretary of War.... August 28, 1847... 315
+ General Scott to the Secretary of
+ War................................. September 11, 1847... 323
+ General Scott to the Secretary of
+ War................................. September 18, 1847... 325
+ General Orders No. 286................... September, 1847... 334
+
+
+ 63 MAJOR-GENERAL ZACHARY TAYLOR. LXIV
+
+ [_Victory of Buena Vista._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 336
+ Biographical Sketch of Frederick Augustus Smith............. 336
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to General
+ Taylor..................................... May 9, 1848... 336
+ General Taylor to the Adjutant-General of the
+ Army..................................... March 6, 1847... 337
+ General Order Congratulating the Army.. February 26, 1847... 346
+
+
+ 64 PRESIDENT ZACHARY TAYLOR. LXV
+
+ [_Twelfth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 348
+
+
+ 65 PRESIDENT MILLARD FILLMORE. LXVI
+
+ [_Thirteenth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 349
+ Biographical Sketch of Joseph Willson....................... 349
+ Biographical Sketch of Millard Fillmore..................... 349
+
+
+ 66 PRESIDENT FRANKLIN PIERCE. LXVII (p. lxiv)
+
+ [_Fourteenth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 351
+ Biographical Sketch of Franklin Pierce...................... 351
+
+
+ 67 COMMANDER DUNCAN NATHANIEL INGRAHAM. LXVIII
+
+ [_Release of Martin Coszta._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 352
+ Biographical Sketch of Seth Eastman......................... 353
+ Biographical Sketch of P. F. Cross.......................... 353
+ Biographical Sketch of James Barton Longacre................ 353
+ Biographical Sketch of Duncan Nathaniel Ingraham............ 353
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to Commander
+ Ingraham................................ August 4, 1854... 353
+ Commander Ingraham to Commodore Stringham... July 6, 1853... 354
+ Commander Ingraham to Commander Schwartz... June 28, 1853... 355
+ Commander Schwartz to Commander Ingraham... June 29, 1853... 356
+ Commander Ingraham to Commander Schwartz.... July 2, 1853... 356
+ Commander Schwartz to Commander Ingraham.... July 2, 1853... 357
+ S. N. Brown to Commander Ingraham.......... June 28, 1853... 357
+ Enclosure from Caleb Lyon of Lyonsdale...................... 358
+ Martin Coszta's Declaration of Intention... July 31, 1852... 359
+ Agreement between the Consul-General of Austria and the Consul
+ of the United States of America........... July 2, 1853... 359
+
+
+ 68 PRESIDENT JAMES BUCHANAN. LXIX
+
+ [_Fifteenth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 361
+ Biographical Sketch of James Buchanan....................... 361
+
+
+ 69 DOCTOR FREDERICK HENRY ROSE. LXX
+
+ [_Kindness and Humanity of Doctor Rose._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 362
+ Biographical Sketch of A. C. Paquet......................... 362
+ Biographical Sketch of Frederick Henry Rose................. 363
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to Doctor
+ Rose...................................... May 11, 1858... 363
+ Captain Sands to the Secretary of the
+ Navy.................................... April 15, 1858... 364
+
+
+ 70 PRESIDENT ABRAHAM LINCOLN. LXXI
+
+ [_Sixteenth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 366
+ Biographical Sketch of Abraham Lincoln...................... 366
+
+
+ 71 NAVY MEDAL OF HONOR. LXXII a (p. lxv)
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 367
+ Acts of Congress Instituting Naval Medals of Honor
+ ..................................... December 21, 1861... 367
+ ......................................... July 16, 1862... 367
+
+
+ 72 ARMY MEDAL OF HONOR. LXXII b
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 368
+ Resolution and Act of Congress Instituting Army Medals of Honor
+ ......................................... July 12, 1862... 368
+ ......................................... March 3, 1863... 369
+
+
+ 73 MAJOR-GENERAL ULYSSES SIMPSON GRANT. LXXIII
+
+ [_Victories of fort Donelson, Vicksburg, and Chattanooga._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 370
+ Biographical Sketch of Antrobus............................. 371
+ Biographical Sketch of Ulysses Simpson Grant................ 371
+ Resolutions of Congress Voting a Medal to General
+ Grant................................ December 17, 1863... 371
+ General Grant to General Cullum........ February 16, 1862... 372
+ General Buckner to General Grant....... February 16, 1862... 374
+ General Grant to General Buckner....... February 16, 1862... 374
+ General Buckner to General Grant....... February 16, 1862... 374
+ General Orders No. 2................... February 17, 1862... 375
+ General Grant to the Assistant
+ Adjutant-General.......................... July 6, 1863... 375
+ General Pemberton to General Grant.......... July 3, 1863... 391
+ General Grant to General Pemberton.......... July 3, 1863... 392
+ General Grant to General Pemberton.......... July 3, 1863... 392
+ General Pemberton to General Grant.......... July 3, 1863... 393
+ General Grant to General Pemberton.......... July 4, 1863... 393
+ General Pemberton to General Grant.......... July 4, 1863... 394
+ General Grant to the Assistant
+ Adjutant-General..................... December 23, 1863... 394
+
+
+ 74 CORNELIUS VANDERBILT. LXXIV
+
+ [_Free Gift of Steamship Vanderbilt._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 406
+ Biographical Sketch of Emanuel Leutze....................... 406
+ Biographical Sketch of Cornelius Vanderbilt................. 407
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to Cornelius
+ Vanderbilt............................ January 28, 1864... 407
+ The Secretary of State to Cornelius
+ Vanderbilt.............................. April 17, 1866... 408
+ Cornelius Vanderbilt to the Secretary of
+ State...................................... May 3, 1866... 408
+
+
+ 75 PRESIDENT ANDREW JOHNSON. LXXV
+
+ [_Seventeenth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 410
+ Biographical Sketch of Andrew Johnson....................... 410
+
+
+ 76 WRECK OF THE STEAMSHIP SAN FRANCISCO. LXXVI (p. lxvi)
+
+ [_Testimonial of National Gratitude._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 411
+ Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to Captains Creighton,
+ Low, and Stouffer........................ July 26, 1866... 412
+ Major Wyse to the Adjutant General of the
+ Army.................................. January 14, 1854... 412
+ Consolidated Morning Report, 3d
+ Artillery............................. January 14, 1854... 414
+ Colonel Gates to the Adjutant-General of the
+ Army.................................. January 16, 1854... 415
+ Acts of Congress Voting Eight Months' Pay to Lieutenant Francis
+ Key Murray and others
+ ........................................ March 27, 1854... 416
+ ........................................ August 5, 1854... 417
+
+
+ 77 CYRUS WEST FIELD. LXXVII
+
+ [_Laying of the Atlantic Telegraph Cable._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 418
+ Biographical Sketch of J. Goldsborough Bruff................ 419
+ Biographical Sketch of William Barber....................... 419
+ Biographical Sketch of Cyrus West Field..................... 419
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to Cyrus W.
+ Field.................................... March 2, 1867... 419
+ The Secretary of State to Cyrus W.
+ Field.................................. January 7, 1869... 420
+
+
+ 78 GEORGE PEABODY. LXXVIII
+
+ [_Promotion of Universal Education._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 421
+ Biographical Sketch of George Peabody....................... 422
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to George
+ Peabody................................. March 16, 1867... 423
+ George Peabody's Gift for Southern
+ Education............................. February 7, 1867... 423
+ Action of the Trustees of the Peabody
+ Gift.................................. February 8, 1867... 425
+ The Secretary of State to George Peabody... June 23, 1868... 426
+ George Peabody to the Secretary of
+ State............................... September 18, 1868... 427
+ The Secretary of State to George
+ Peabody................................ October 7, 1868... 427
+ George Peabody to the Secretary of
+ State.................................. January 6, 1869... 428
+
+
+ 79 PRESIDENT ULYSSES SIMPSON GRANT. LXXIX
+
+ [_Eighteenth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 429
+
+
+ 80 GEORGE FOSTER ROBINSON. LXXX
+
+ [_Heroic Conduct._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 430
+ Biographical Sketch of George Foster Robinson............... 431
+ Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to George F.
+ Robinson................................. March 1, 1871... 431
+ Report of the Committee on Foreign Affairs in Regard to
+ George F. Robinson........................................ 432
+
+
+ 81 LOSS OF THE STEAMER METIS. LXXXI (p. lxvii)
+
+ [_Courage and Humanity._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 434
+ Biographical Sketch of Charles E. Barber.................... 434
+ Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captain Crandall
+ and others........................... February 24, 1873... 434
+ Captain David Ritchie to the Secretary of the
+ Navy................................. September 1, 1872... 435
+ Resolution of Congress Voting Thanks to Captain
+ Ritchie............................... January 24, 1873... 437
+
+
+ 82 CENTENNIAL MEDAL. LXXXII
+
+ [_Hundredth Anniversary of American Independence._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 438
+ Act of Congress Authorizing Centennial
+ Medals................................... June 16, 1874... 439
+ Official Notice Promulgated by the Centennial Board of
+ Finance................................. March 24, 1875... 439
+
+
+ 83 CENTENNIAL MEDAL. LXXXIII
+
+ [_Hundredth Anniversary of American Independence._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 440
+
+
+ 84 LIFE SAVING MEDAL OF THE FIRST CLASS. LXXXIV
+
+ [_Saving Life from the Perils of the Sea._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 441
+ Act of Congress Instituting Life Saving
+ Medals................................... June 20, 1874... 442
+ The Acting Secretary of the Treasury to Lucien M.
+ Clemons.................................. June 30, 1876... 442
+ The Acting Secretary of the Treasury to James
+ Martin................................... March 3, 1877... 443
+ The Acting Secretary of the Treasury to John
+ Dean..................................... March 3, 1877... 444
+ Report of the United States Life-Saving
+ Service.............................. November 30, 1876... 444
+ The Secretary of the Treasury to Colonel J. Schuyler
+ Crosby................................... June 30, 1877... 447
+ The Secretary of the Treasury to Carl
+ Fosberg............................. September 22, 1877... 448
+ Report of the United States Life-Saving
+ Service.............................. November 29, 1877... 448
+ The Secretary of the Treasury to Philip C.
+ Bleil................................. January 15, 1878... 452
+
+
+ 85 LIFE SAVING MEDAL OF THE SECOND CLASS. LXXXV
+
+ [_Saving Life from the Perils of the Sea._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 453
+ The Secretary of the Treasury to John O.
+ Philbrick................................ July 22, 1876... 453
+ The Secretary of the Treasury to Henry M.
+ Lee...................................... July 31, 1877... 454
+ The Secretary of the Treasury to Captain Charles
+ H. Smith................................ March 12, 1878... 454
+ The Secretary of the Treasury to Edward
+ Nordall................................. March 12, 1878... 455
+ The Secretary of the Treasury to Malachi
+ Corbell................................. March 12, 1878... 456
+
+
+ 86 JOHN HORN, JR. LXXXVI (p. lxviii)
+
+ [_Heroic Exploits._]
+
+ Description of Medal........................................ 457
+ Biographical Sketch of John Horn, Jr........................ 457
+ Act of Congress Voting a Medal to John
+ Horn, Jr................................. June 20, 1874... 458
+ John Horn, Jr., to Moses W. Field...... February 23, 1874... 458
+
+
+
+
+LIST OF THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS (p. lxix)
+
+GIVEN OR REFERRED TO IN THE INTRODUCTION.
+
+
+ Page.
+ Benjamin Franklin to the President of Congress.... March 4, 1780..... xi
+ Colonel Humphreys to the President of Congress... March 18, 1785.... xii
+ Colonel Humphreys to the Perpetual Secretary of
+ the Royal Academy of Inscriptions and
+ Belles-Lettres of France....................... March 14, 1785... xiii
+ Benjamin Franklin to the Secretary for Foreign
+ Affairs.......................................... May 10, 1785.... xiv
+ Contract between Colonel Humphreys and M. Dupre for
+ Engraving the Medal of General Greene....... November 19, 1785.... xvi
+ Thomas Jefferson to the Secretary for Foreign
+ Affairs..................................... February 14, 1787... xvii
+ Report of the Secretary for Foreign Affairs....... July 11, 1787.. xviii
+ Thomas Jefferson to M. Dupre.................... January 3, 1789.... xix
+ Thomas Jefferson to M. Dupre.................. February 13, 1789..... xx
+ Thomas Jefferson to M. Dupre.................. February 15, 1789.... xxi
+ General Winfield Scott to the Secretary of War.... July 25, 1846... xxiv
+ Thomas Jefferson to M. Dupre.................. February 23, 1789. xxxiii
+ Colonel Humphreys to the Printer of the American
+ Museum (Mr. Carey)............................. November, 1787.. xxxiv
+ Registre des Assemblees et Deliberations de l'Academie Royale
+ des Inscriptions et Belles-Lettres pendant l'annee 1785......... xxxvi
+ Contract between Colonel Humphreys and M. Dupre for
+ Engraving the Medal of General Greene....... November 19, 1785.... xli
+ Registre des Assemblees et Deliberations de l'Academie Royale
+ des Inscriptions et Belles-Lettres pendant l'annee 1789........... xli
+ Thomas Jefferson to M. Dupre............. Royale January 3, 1789... xliv
+ Thomas Jefferson to M. Dupre........... Royale February 13, 1789... xliv
+ Thomas Jefferson to M. Dupre.................. February 15, 1789.... xlv
+ Explication des Peintures. Sculptures et Gravures de
+ Messieurs de l'Academie Royale, etc............. 1781 and 1789.... xlv
+ James Pollock to William L. Dayton............ November 22, 1861.. xlvii
+ William L. Dayton to the French Minister of Foreign
+ Affairs..................................... December 10, 1861. xlviii
+ Marquis de Banneville to W. L. Dayton.......... January 17, 1862... xlix
+ William L. Dayton to the French Minister
+ of Foreign Affairs........................... January 23, 1862... xlix
+ Thomas Jefferson to M. Dupre.................. February 23, 1789...... l
+
+
+
+
+LIST OF PLATES.
+
+
+ Number Designer and Number Page
+ of Plate. Title of Medal. Engraver. of Text. of Text.
+
+ I GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON.
+ [_Boston retaken._]
+ Georgio Washington svpremo dvci exercitvvm
+ adsertori libertatis Comitia Americana. [Rx].
+ Hostibus primo fugatis.
+ DUVIVIER. 1 1
+
+ II MAJOR-GENERAL HORATIO GATES.
+ [_Surrender of the British Army at Saratoga._]
+ Horatio Gates duci strenuo Comitia Americana.
+ [Rx]. Salus regionum septentrional.
+ N. GATTEAUX. 2 8
+
+ III BRIGADIER-GENERAL ANTHONY WAYNE.
+ [_Taking of Stony Point._]
+ Antonio Wayne duci exercitus Comitia Americana.
+ [Rx]. Stoney-Point expugnatum.
+ GATTEAUX. 3 14
+
+ IV LIEUTENANT-COLONEL DE FLEURY.
+ [_Taking of Stony Point._]
+ Virtutis et audaciae monum. et praemium. [Rx].
+ Aggeres paludes hostes victi.
+ DUVIVIER. 4 22
+
+ V MAJOR JOHN STEWART.
+ [_Taking of Stony Point._]
+ Joanni Stewart cohortis praefecto Comitia Americana.
+ [Rx]. Stoney-Point oppugnatum.
+ GATTEAUX. 5 28
+
+ VI MAJOR HENRY LEE.
+ [_Surprise of Paulus Hook._]
+ Henrico Lee legionis equit. praefecto. Comitia
+ Americana. [Rx]. Non obstantib fluminibus
+ vallis, etc.
+ J. WRIGHT. 6 29
+
+ VII JOHN PAULDING, DAVID WILLIAMS,
+ ISAAC VAN WART.
+ [_Capture of Major Andre._]
+ Fidelity. [Rx]. Vincit amor patriae. 7 37
+
+ VIII BRIGADIER-GENERAL DANIEL MORGAN.
+ [_Victory of the Cowpens._]
+ Danieli Morgan duci exercitus Comitia
+ Americana. [Rx]. Victoria libertatis
+ vindex.
+ DUPRE. 8 40
+
+ IX LIEUTENANT-COLONEL WILLIAM
+ AUGUSTINE WASHINGTON.
+ [_Victory of the Cowpens._]
+ Gulielmo Washington legionis equit.
+ praefecto Comitia American. [Rx]. Quod
+ parva militum manu, etc.
+ DUVIVIER. 9 46
+
+ X LIEUTENANT-COLONEL JOHN
+ EAGER HOWARD.
+ [_Victory of the Cowpens._]
+ Joh. Egar. Howard legionis peditum
+ praefecto Comitia Americana. [Rx]. Quod
+ in nutantem hostium aciem, etc.
+ DUVIVIER 10 48
+
+ XI MAJOR-GENERAL NATHANIEL GREENE.
+ [_Victory of Eutaw Springs._]
+ Nathanieli Green egregio duci Comitia
+ Americana. [Rx]. Salus regionum
+ australium.
+ DUPRE 11 50
+
+ XII ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF THE UNITED
+ STATES OF AMERICA BY THE
+ UNITED NETHERLANDS.
+ [_Libera Soror._]
+ Libera soror. [Rx]. Tyrannis virtute
+ repulsa.
+ I. G. HOLTZHEY. 12 57
+
+ XIII TREATY OF AMITY AND COMMERCE
+ BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES
+ OF AMERICA AND THE UNITED
+ NETHERLANDS.
+ [_Faustissimo Foedere Junctae._]
+ Faustissimo foedere junctae. die VII Octob.
+ MDCCLXXXII. [Rx]. Justitiam et non
+ temnere divos.
+ I. G. HOLTZHEY. 13 74
+
+ XIV LIBERTAS AMERICANA.
+ [_Surrender of the British Armies at Saratoga and at
+ Yorktown._]
+ Libertas Americana. [Rx]. Non sine diis
+ animosus infans.
+ DUPRE. 14 86
+
+ XV BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.
+ Benj. Franklin natus Boston. XVII Jan. MDCCVI.
+ [Rx]. Eripuit coelo fulmen sceptrum que tyrannis.
+ AUG. DUPRE. 16 95
+
+ XVII CAPTAIN JOHN PAUL JONES.
+ [_Capture of the Serapis._]
+ Joanni Paulo Jones classis praefecto.
+ Comitia Americana. [Rx]. Hostium
+ navibus captis aut fugatis.
+ DUPRE. 17 97
+
+XVIII
+ XIX PRESIDENT GEORGE WASHINGTON.
+ [_First President of the United States of America._]
+ George Washington President. 1792. 18 113
+
+ XX THE DIPLOMATIC MEDAL.
+ To peace and commerce. [Rx]. The United
+ States of America.
+ DUPRE. 19 115
+
+ XXI PRESIDENT JOHN ADAMS.
+ [_Second President of the United States of America._]
+ John Adams President of the U.S. A.D. 1797.
+ [Rx]. Peace and friendship. 20 127
+
+ XXII CAPTAIN THOMAS TRUXTUN.
+ [_Action with the Vengeance._]
+ Patriae. patres. filio. digno. Thomas Truxtun.
+ [Rx]. United States frigate Constellation of
+ 38 guns, &c. 21 128
+
+XXIII PRESIDENT THOMAS JEFFERSON.
+ [_Third President of the United States of America._]
+ Th. Jefferson President of the U.S. A.D.
+ 1801. [Rx]. Peace and friendship.
+ REICH. 22 133
+
+ XXIV COMMODORE EDWARD PREBLE.
+ [_Naval operations against Tripoli._]
+ Edwardo Preble duci strenuo Comitia
+ Americana. [Rx]. Vindici commercii
+ Americani.
+ REICH. 23 135
+
+ XXV PRESIDENT JAMES MADISON.
+ [_Fourth President of the United States of America._]
+ James Madison President of the U.S.A.
+ D. 1809. [Rx]. Peace and friendship.
+ REICH. 24 151
+
+ XXVI CAPTAIN ISAAC HULL.
+ [_Capture of the Guerriere._]
+ Isaacus Hull peritos arte superat Jul.
+ MDCCCXII Aug. certamine fortes. [Rx].
+ Horae momento victoria.
+ REICH. 25 153
+
+XXVII CAPTAIN JACOB JONES.
+ [_Capture of the Frolic._]
+ Jacobus Jones virtus in ardua tendit.
+ [Rx]. Victoriam hosti majori celerrime
+ rapuit.
+ FUeRST. 26 160
+
+XXVIII CAPTAIN STEPHEN DECATUR.
+ [_Capture of the Macedonian._]
+ Stephanus Decatur navarchus, pugnis
+ pluribus, victor. [Rx]. Occidit signum
+ hostile sidera surgunt.
+ FUeRST. 27 163
+
+ XXIX CAPTAIN WILLIAM BAINBRIDGE.
+ [_Capture of the Java._]
+ Gulielmus Bainbridge patria victisque
+ laudatus. [Rx]. Pugnando.
+ FUeRST. 28 166
+
+ XXX LIEUTENANT EDWARD RUTLEDGE McCALL.
+ [_Capture of the Boxer._]
+ Edward R. McCall navis Enterprise
+ praefectus. Sic itur ad astra. [Rx].
+ Vivere sat vincere.
+ FUeRST. 29 171
+
+ XXXI LIEUTENANT WILLIAM BURROWS.
+ [_Capture of the Boxer._]
+ Victoriam tibi claram. patriae maestam. [Rx].
+ Vivere sat vincere.
+ FUeRST. 30 174
+
+XXXII CAPTAIN OLIVER HAZARD PERRY.
+ [_Victory of Lake Erie._]
+ Oliverus H. Perry, princeps stagno Eriense.
+ classim totam contudit. [Rx]. Viam invenit
+ virtus aut facit.
+ FUeRST. 31 176
+
+XXXIII CAPTAIN JESSE DUNCAN ELLIOTT.
+ [_Victory of Lake Erie._]
+ Jesse D. Elliott. Nil actum reputans si quid
+ superesset agendum. [Rx]. Viam invenit
+ virtus aut facit.
+ FUeRST. 32 183
+
+XXXIV CAPTAIN JAMES LAWRENCE.
+ [_Capture of the Peacock._]
+ Jac. Lawrence dulce et decorum est pro
+ patria mori. [Rx]. Mansuetud. maj. quam
+ victoria.
+ FUeRST. 33 185
+
+ XXXV CAPTAIN THOMAS MACDONOUGH.
+ [_Victory of Lake Champlain._]
+ Tho. Macdonough. Stagno Champlain clas.
+ Reg. Brit. superavit. [Rx]. Uno latere
+ percusso. alterum impavide vertit.
+ FUeRST. 34 189
+
+XXXVI CAPTAIN ROBERT HENLEY.
+ [_Victory of Lake Champlain._]
+ Rob. Henley Eagle praefect. palma virtu. per
+ aeternit. florebit. [Rx]. Uno latere percusso.
+ alterum impavide vertit.
+ FUeRST. 35 193
+
+XXXVII LIEUTENANT STEPHEN CASSIN.
+ [_Victory of Lake Champlain._]
+ Step. Cassin Ticonderoga praefect. Quae
+ regio in terris nos. non plena lab. [Rx]. Uno
+ latere percusso. alterum impavide vertit.
+ FUeRST. 36 195
+
+XXXVIII CAPTAIN LEWIS WARRINGTON.
+ [_Capture of the Epervier._]
+ Ludovicus Warrington dux navalis Ameri.
+ [Rx]. Pro patria paratus aut vincere aut mori.
+ FUeRST. 37 197
+
+XXXIX CAPTAIN JOHNSTON BLAKELEY.
+ [_Capture of the Reindeer._]
+ Johnston Blakeley Reip. Faed. Am. nav.
+ Wasp dux. [Rx]. Eheu! bis victor patria
+ tua te luget plauditq.
+ FUeRST. 38 200
+
+ XL MAJOR-GENERAL JACOB BROWN.
+ [_Victories of Chippewa, Niagara, and Erie._]
+ Major General Jacob Brown. [Rx]. Resolution
+ of Congress November 3. 1814.
+ FUeRST. 39 203
+
+ XLI MAJOR-GENERAL PETER BUEL PORTER.
+ [_Victories of Chippewa, Niagara, and Erie._]
+ Major General Peter B. Porter. [Rx]. Resolution
+ of Congress November 3. 1814.
+ FUeRST. 40 215
+
+ XLII BRIGADIER-GENERAL ELEAZER WHEELOCK RIPLEY.
+ [_Victories of Chippewa, Niagara, and Erie._]
+ Brig. General Eleazer W. Ripley. [Rx]. Resolution
+ of Congress Novemb. 3. 1814.
+ FUeRST. 41 219
+
+XLIII BRIGADIER-GENERAL JAMES MILLER.
+ [_Victories of Chippewa, Niagara, and Erie._]
+ Brigadier Genl. James Miller. [Rx]. Resolution
+ of Congress November 3. 1814.
+ FUeRST. 42 223
+
+ XLIV MAJOR-GENERAL WINFIELD SCOTT.
+ [_Victories of Chippewa and Niagara._]
+ Major General Winfield Scott. [Rx]. Resolution
+ of Congress November 3. 1814. etc.
+ FUeRST. 43 224
+
+ XLV MAJOR-GENERAL EDMUND P. GAINES.
+ [_Victory of Erie._]
+ Major General Edmund P. Gaines. [Rx]. Resolution
+ of Congress November 3. 1814.
+ FUeRST. 44 226
+
+ XLVI MAJOR-GENERAL ALEXANDER MACOMB.
+ [_Victory of Plattsburgh._]
+ Major General Alexander Macomb. [Rx]. Resolution
+ of Congress November 3. 1814.
+ FUeRST. 45 233
+
+XLVII MAJOR-GENERAL ANDREW JACKSON.
+ [_Victory of New Orleans._]
+ Major General Andrew Jackson. [Rx]. Resolution
+ of Congress February 27. 1815.
+ FUeRST. 46 238
+
+XLVIII CAPTAIN CHARLES STEWART.
+ [_Capture of the Cyane and of the Levant._]
+ Carolus Stewart navis Amer. Constitution dux.
+ [Rx]. Una victoriam eripuit ratibus binis.
+ FUeRST. 47 245
+
+ XLIX CAPTAIN JAMES BIDDLE.
+ [_Capture of the Penguin._]
+ The Congress of the U.S. to Capt. James
+ Biddle. etc. [Rx]. Capture of the British ship
+ Penguin by the U.S. ship Hornet.
+ FUeRST. 48 249
+
+ L PRESIDENT JAMES MONROE.
+ [_Fifth President of the United States of America._]
+ James Monroe President of the U.S.A. D.
+ 1817. [Rx]. Peace and friendship.
+ FUeRST. 49 253
+
+ LI MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON.
+ [_Victory of the Thames._]
+ Major General William H. Harrison. [Rx]. Resolution
+ of Congress April 4. 1818.
+ FUeRST. 50 254
+
+ LII GOVERNOR ISAAC SHELBY.
+ [_Victory of the Thames._]
+ Governor Isaac Shelby. [Rx]. Battle of the
+ Thames. Octo. 5. 1813.
+ FUeRST. 51 265
+
+ LIII TREATY OF COMMERCE WITH FRANCE.
+ Lvdovicvs. XVIII Franc. et. Nav. rex. [Rx]. Gallia.
+ et. America. foederata.
+ ANDRIEU.
+ GAYRARD. 52 266
+
+ LIV PRESIDENT JOHN QUINCY ADAMS.
+ [_Sixth President of the United States of America._]
+ John Quincy Adams President of the United
+ States 1825. [Rx]. Peace and friendship.
+ FUeRST. 53 270
+
+ LV PRESIDENT ANDREW JACKSON.
+ [_Seventh President of the United States of America._]
+ Andrew Jackson President of the United States
+ A.D. 1829. [Rx]. Peace and friendship.
+ FUeRST. 54 271
+
+ LVI COLONEL GEORGE CROGHAN.
+ [_Defence of Fort Stephenson._]
+ Presented by Congress to Colonel George
+ Croghan 1835. [Rx]. Pars magna fuit.
+ FUeRST. 55 272
+
+ LVII PRESIDENT MARTIN VAN BUREN.
+ [_Eighth President of the United States of America._]
+ Martin Van Buren President of the United States
+ A.D. 1837. [Rx]. Peace and friendship.
+ FUeRST. 56 275
+
+LVIII PRESIDENT JOHN TYLER.
+ [_Tenth President of the United States of America._]
+ John Tyler, President of the United States.
+ 1841. [Rx]. Peace and friendship.
+ 57 276
+
+ LIX PRESIDENT JAMES KNOX POLK.
+ [_Eleventh President of the United States of America._]
+ James K. Polk President of the United States.
+ 1845. [Rx]. Peace and friendship.
+ PEALE. 58 280
+
+ LX MAJOR-GENERAL ZACHARY TAYLOR.
+ [_Victories on the Rio Grande._]
+ Major General Zachary Taylor. [Rx]. Resolution
+ of Congress July 16th 1846, etc.
+ 59 281
+
+ LXI MAJOR-GENERAL ZACHARY TAYLOR.
+ [_Taking of Monterey._]
+ Major General Zachary Taylor. [Rx]. Resolution
+ of Congress March 2nd 1847, etc.
+ 60 290
+
+ LXII LOSS OF THE UNITED STATES BRIG-OR-WAR SOMERS.
+ [_For Having Saved the Lives of Americans._]
+ Somers navis Americana. [Rx]. Pro vitis
+ Americanorum conservatis.
+ C. C. WRIGHT. 61 299
+
+LXIII MAJOR-GENERAL WINFIELD SCOTT.
+ [_Mexican Campaign._]
+ Major General Winfield Scott. [Rx].
+ Vera Cruz. Cerro Gordo.
+ Contreras, etc.
+ S. ELLIS.
+ G. C. HUMPHRIES. 62 394
+ C. C. WRIGHT.
+
+ LXIV MAJOR-GENERAL ZACHARY TAYLOR
+ [_Victory of Buena Vista._]
+ Major General Zachary Taylor, etc.
+ [Rx]. Buena Vista Feb. 22 & 23, 1847.
+ S. ELLIS.
+ F. A. SMITH. 63 336
+ C. C. WRIGHT.
+
+ LXV PRESIDENT ZACHARY TAYLOR
+ [_Twelfth President of the United States of America._]
+ Zachary Taylor President of the United
+ States 1849. [Rx]. Peace and friendship.
+ F. PEALE. 64 348
+
+ LXVI PRESIDENT MILLARD FILLMORE.
+ [_Thirteenth President of the United States of America._]
+ Millard Fillmore President of the United
+ States 1850. [Rx]. Labor virtue honor.
+ S. ELLIS.
+ J. WILLSON. 65 349
+
+LXVII PRESIDENT FRANKLIN PIERCE.
+ [_Fourteenth President of the United States of America._]
+ Franklin Pierce, President of the United
+ States. 1853. [Rx]. Labor virute honor.
+ S. ELLIS.
+ J. WILLSON. 66 351
+
+LXVIII COMMANDER DUNCAN NATHANIEL INGRAHAM.
+ [_Release of Martin Coszta._]
+ Smyrna. American sloop of war St. Louis.
+ Austrian brig of war Hussar. [Rx].
+ Presented by the President of the
+ United States to Commander Duncan N.
+ Ingraham, etc.
+ S. EASTMAN.
+ P. F. CROSS. 67 352
+ J. B. LONGACRE.
+
+ LXIX PRESIDENT JAMES BUCHANAN.
+ [_Fifteenth President of the United States of America._]
+ James Buchanan, President of the United
+ States 1857. [Rx]. Labor virtue honor.
+ S. ELLIS.
+ J. WILLSON. 68 361
+
+ LXX DOCTOR FREDERICK HENRY ROSE.
+ [_Kindness and Humanity of Doctor Rose._]
+ James Buchanan, President of the United
+ States. [Rx]. To Dr. Frederick Rose, Assistant
+ Surgeon, Royal Navy, G.B.
+ PAQUET. 69 362
+
+ LXXI PRESIDENT ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+ [_Sixteenth President of the United States of America._]
+ Abraham Lincoln, President of the United
+ States 1862.
+ S. ELLIS. 70 366
+
+LXXIIa NAVY MEDAL OF HONOR. PAQUET. 71 367
+
+LXXIIb ARMY MEDAL OF HONOR. PAQUET. 72 368
+
+LXXIII MAJOR-GENERAL ULYSSES SIMPSON GRANT.
+ [_Victories of Fort Donelson, Vicksburg, and Chattanooga._]
+ Major General Ulysses S. Grant. Joint Resolution
+ of Congress December 17. 1863.
+ [Rx]. Donelson, Vicksburg, etc.
+ ANTROBUS.
+ PAQUET. 73 370
+
+LXXIV CORNELIUS VANDERBILT.
+ [_Free Gift of Steamship Vanderbilt._]
+ A grateful country to her generous son
+ Cornelius Vanderbilt. [Rx]. Bis dat qui tempori
+ dat. 1865.
+ LEUTZE.
+ S. ELLIS. 74 406
+
+ LXXV PRESIDENT ANDREW JOHNSON.
+ [_Seventeenth President of the United States of America._]
+ Andrew Johnson, President of the United
+ States. 1865. [Rx]. Peace.
+ PAQUET. 75 410
+
+LXXVI WRECK OF THE STEAMSHIP SAN FRANCISCO.
+ [_Testimonial of National Gratitude._]
+ By joint resolution of Congress to the
+ rescuers of the passengers officers and
+ men of steamship San Francisco, etc.
+ [Rx]. July 26 1866.
+ PAQUET. 75 410
+
+LXXVII CYRUS WEST FIELD.
+ [_Laying of the Atlantic Telegraph Cable._]
+ Honor and fame are the reward. [Rx]. By
+ resolution of the Congress of the United
+ States. March 2, 1867. to Cyrus W. Field,
+ of New York, etc.
+ J. G. BRUFF.
+ BARBER. 77 418
+
+LXXVIII GEORGE PEABODY.
+ [_Promotion of Universal Education._]
+ [Rx]. The people of the United States to
+ George Peabody, etc. 78 421
+
+LXXIX PRESIDENT ULYSSES SIMPSON GRANT.
+ [_Eighteenth President of the United States of America._]
+ United States of America. Liberty justice
+ and equality "Let us have peace." [Rx].
+ On earth peace good will toward men.
+ PAQUET. 79 429
+
+ LXXX GEORGE FOSTER ROBINSON.
+ [_Heroic Conduct._]
+ To George F. Robinson. Awarded by the
+ Congress of the United States, March 1, 1871.
+ G. Y. COFFIN.
+ PAQUET. 80 430
+
+LXXXI LOSS OF THE STEAMER METIS.
+ [_Courage and Humanity._]
+ By Resolution of Congress February 24, 1873.
+ W. & C. BARBER. 81 434
+
+LXXXII CENTENNIAL MEDAL.
+ [_Hundredth Anniversary of American Independence._]
+ These United Colonies are, and of right
+ ought to be, free and independent States.
+ [Rx]. In commemoration of the hundredth
+ anniversary.
+ W. BARBER. 83 440
+
+LXXXIII CENTENNIAL MEDAL.
+ [_Hundredth Anniversary of American Independence._]
+ These United Colonies are, and of right
+ ought to be, free and independent
+ States. [Rx]. By authority of the
+ Congress, etc.
+ W. BARBER. 83 440
+
+LXXXIV LIFE SAVING MEDAL OF THE FIRST CLASS.
+ [_Saving Life from the Perils of the Sea._]
+ Life Saving medal of the first class.
+ United States of America. [Rx]. In
+ testimony of heroic deeds, etc.
+ PAQUET. 84 441
+
+LXXXV LIFE SAVING MEDAL OF THE SECOND CLASS.
+ [_Saving Life from the Perils of the Sea._]
+ Life Saving medal of the second class.
+ United States of America. [Rx]. In testimony
+ of heroic deeds, etc.
+ PAQUET. 85 453
+
+LXXXVI JOHN HORN, JR.
+ [_Heroic Exploits._]
+ John Horn, Jr. [Rx]. By Act of Congress
+ June 20th 1874. In recognition of his
+ heroic exploits, etc.
+ C. BARBER. 86 457
+
+
+
+
+THE MEDALLIC HISTORY (p. 001)
+
+OF
+
+THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
+
+1776-1876.
+
+
+No. 1.
+PLATE I.
+
+
+_March 17, 1776._
+
+ Georgio Washington svpremo dvci exercitvvm adsertori libertatis
+ Comitia Americana. [Rx].[26] Hostibus primo fugatis.
+
+ [Footnote 26: [Rx]. Abbreviation of REVERSE.]
+
+GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON.
+
+[_Boston retaken._]
+
+GEORGIO WASHINGTON SVPREMO DVCI EXERCITVVM ADSERTORI LIBERTATIS
+COMITIA AMERICANA. (_The American Congress to George Washington,
+commander-in-chief of the armies, the assertor of liberty._) Undraped
+bust of General Washington, facing the right. DUVIVIER. Paris. F.
+(_fecit_).
+
+HOSTIBUS PRIMO FUGATIS. (_The enemy put to flight for the first
+time._) To the left, General Washington on horseback, surrounded by
+his staff, points toward the British fleet, which is leaving Boston.
+The American army, in battle array in front of its intrenchments, (p. 002)
+makes ready to occupy the city. Exergue: BOSTONIUM RECUPERATUM XVII
+MARTII MDCCLXXVI. (_Boston retaken, March 17, 1776._) On a cannon,
+DUVIV. (_Duvivier_).[27]
+
+ [Footnote 27: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xi, xiii,
+ xvi, xxiii, xxv, xxviii; B, xxxvi; G, xlv; and H,
+ xlvii.]
+
+Although this medal was the first one voted by Congress, it was not
+struck until after that of the Chevalier de Fleury, which was voted
+three years later. Its designs, and those of the medals awarded to
+General Horatio Gates for Saratoga, General Nathaniel Greene for Eutaw
+Springs, General Daniel Morgan, Lieutenant-Colonels William Augustine
+Washington and John Eager Howard for the Cowpens, General Anthony
+Wayne and Major John Stewart for Stony Point, and Captain John Paul
+Jones for the capture of the Serapis, were composed by commissioners
+appointed by the French Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres, at
+the request of Colonel David Humphreys and of Mr. Jefferson. The
+legend of the reverse of the General Washington medal, as originally
+proposed, was HOSTIBUS or ANGLIS PRIMUM FUGATIS. Several of the medals
+are treated of at length in the Introduction, to which, to avoid
+repetition, the reader is referred.
+
+
+PIERRE SIMON DUVIVIER was born in Paris, November 5, 1731. He was the
+son of Jean Duvivier, a member of the Royal Academy of Painting and
+Sculpture, and the grandson of Jean Duvivier, known as Duvivier "_le
+pere_," the first of this distinguished family of medal engravers, who
+lived in Liege at the beginning of the 17th century. Pierre Simon
+Duvivier was engraver-general of the Paris Mint prior to 1793, and
+executed medals of many eminent persons. America is indebted to him
+for those of General Washington, Lieutenant-Colonel de Fleury,
+Lieutenant-Colonel William Augustine Washington, and Lieutenant-Colonel
+John Eager Howard. He was a member of the Academy of Fine Arts, and
+died June 10, 1819.
+
+
+GEORGE WASHINGTON was born near Pope's Creek, Westmoreland County,
+Virginia, February 22, 1732. He lost his father when but ten years of
+age, and in 1752, in consequence of the death of his elder brother,
+came into possession of the estate of Mount Vernon, on the Potomac
+River, and other property. The same year he received a commission as
+major of militia, and in 1755 became colonel and aid-de-camp to (p. 003)
+General Braddock. On the death of that officer in the disastrous march
+against Fort Duquesne, Washington conducted the retreat, and was
+shortly afterward appointed commander of the Virginia troops. In 1774
+he was elected member of the first Continental Congress, held in
+Philadelphia, and in the following year was appointed commander-in-chief
+of the Continental Army, taking command of the forces at Cambridge,
+July 3, 1775. On March 17, 1776, he compelled the British forces to
+evacuate Boston, for which Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a
+gold medal. He was commander-in-chief throughout the War of
+Independence, and resigned his commission as such, December 23, 1783,
+when he retired to Mount Vernon. He was delegate from Virginia to the
+National Convention which met in Philadelphia in May, 1787, to frame
+the Constitution of the United States, and was chosen its president.
+He was afterward unanimously elected first President of the United
+States, and was inaugurated in New York city, April 30, 1789. He was
+re-elected, and inaugurated a second time, March 4, 1793; refused a
+third term of office, and issued a farewell address, September 17,
+1796. When a war with France was expected, in 1797, he was
+re-appointed commander-in-chief. General Washington died at Mount
+Vernon, December 14, 1799.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to General Washington._
+
+IN CONGRESS.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the thanks of this Congress, in their own name,
+ and in the name of the thirteen United Colonies, whom they
+ represent, be presented to His Excellency General Washington, and
+ the officers and soldiers under his command, for their wise and
+ spirited conduct in the siege and acquisition of Boston; and that
+ a medal of gold be struck in commemoration of this great event,
+ and presented to His Excellency; and that a committee of
+ three[28] be appointed to prepare a letter of thanks and a proper
+ device for the medal.
+
+ Monday, March 25, 1776.
+
+ [Footnote 28: The members chosen were Mr. J. Adams,
+ Mr. Jay, and Mr. Hopkins.]
+
+ _____
+
+_General Washington to the President of Congress._ (p. 004)
+
+ To
+ John HANCOCK, Esq., HEADQUARTERS, Cambridge,
+ President of Congress. March 19, 1776.
+
+ Sir: It is with the greatest pleasure I inform you that, on
+ Sunday last, the seventeenth instant, about nine o'clock in the
+ forenoon, the ministerial army evacuated the town of Boston, and
+ that the forces of the United Colonies are now in actual
+ possession thereof. I beg leave to congratulate you, Sir, and the
+ honourable Congress, on this happy event, and particularly as it
+ was effected without endangering the lives and property of the
+ remaining unhappy inhabitants.
+
+ I have great reason to imagine their flight was precipitated by
+ the appearance of a work which I had ordered to be thrown up last
+ Saturday night on an eminence at Dorchester, which lay nearest to
+ Boston Neck, called Nook's Hill.
+
+ The town, although it has suffered greatly, is not in so bad a
+ state as I expected to find it; and I have a particular pleasure
+ in being able to inform you, Sir, that your house has received no
+ damage worth mentioning. Your furniture is in tolerable order,
+ and the family pictures are all left entire and untouched.
+ Captain Cazeneau takes charge of the whole until he shall receive
+ further orders from you.
+
+ As soon as the ministerial troops had quitted the town, I ordered
+ a thousand men (who had had the small-pox), under command of
+ General Putnam, to take possession of the heights, which I shall
+ endeavour to fortify in such a manner as to prevent their return,
+ should they attempt it. But as they are still in the harbour, I
+ thought it not prudent to march off with the main body of the
+ army until I should be fully satisfied they had quitted the
+ coast. I have, therefore, only detached five regiments, besides
+ the rifle battalion, to New York, and shall keep the remainder
+ here till all suspicion of their return ceases.
+
+ The situation in which I found their works evidently discovered
+ that their retreat was made with the greatest precipitation. They
+ have left their barracks, and other works of wood at Bunker Hill,
+ &c., all standing, and have destroyed but a small part of their
+ lines. They have also left a number of fine pieces of cannon
+ which they first spiked up, also a very large iron mortar, and,
+ as I am informed, they have thrown another over the end of your
+ wharf. I have employed proper persons to drill the cannon, and
+ doubt not I shall save the most of them. I am not yet able to
+ procure an exact list of all the stores they have left. As soon
+ as it can be done, I shall take care to transmit it to you. From
+ an estimate of what the quartermaster-general has already
+ discovered, the amount will be twenty-five or thirty thousand
+ pounds.
+
+ Part of the powder mentioned in yours of the sixth instant has
+ already arrived. The remainder I have ordered to be stopped on
+ the road, as we shall have no occasion for it here. The letter to
+ General Thomas I immediately sent to him. He desired leave for
+ three or four days to settle some of his private affairs, after
+ which he will set out for his command in Canada. I am happy that
+ my conduct in intercepting Lord Drummond's letter is approved of
+ by Congress.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Geo. WASHINGTON.
+
+ _____
+
+_The President of Congress to General Washington._ (p. 005)
+
+ To
+ General WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, April 2, 1776.
+
+ Sir: It gives me the most sensible pleasure to convey to you, by
+ order of Congress, the only tribute which a free people will ever
+ consent to pay--the tribute of thanks and gratitude to their
+ friends and benefactors. The disinterested and patriotic
+ principles which led you to the field have also led you to glory;
+ and it affords no little consolation to your countrymen to
+ reflect that, as a peculiar greatness of mind induced you to
+ decline any compensation for serving them, except the pleasure of
+ promoting their happiness, they may, without your permission,
+ bestow upon you the largest share of their affections and esteem.
+
+ Those pages in the annals of America will record your title to a
+ conspicuous place in the temple of fame which shall inform
+ posterity that, under your direction, an undisciplined band of
+ husbandmen, in the course of a few months, became soldiers; and
+ that the desolation meditated against the country by a brave army
+ of veterans, commanded by the most experienced generals, but
+ employed by bad men in the worst of causes, was, by the fortitude
+ of your troops, and the address of their officers, next to the
+ kind interposition of Providence, confined for near a year within
+ such narrow limits as scarcely to admit more room than was
+ necessary for the encampments and fortifications they lately
+ abandoned. Accept, therefore, Sir, the thanks of the United
+ Colonies, unanimously declared by their delegates to be due to
+ you and the brave officers and troops under your command; and be
+ pleased to communicate to them this distinguished mark of the
+ approbation of their country. The Congress have ordered a golden
+ medal, adapted to the occasion, to be struck, and, when finished,
+ to be presented to you.
+
+ I have the honour to be, with every sentiment of esteem, Sir,
+ your most obedient and very humble servant,
+ John HANCOCK, President.
+
+ _____
+
+_John Adams to General Washington._
+
+ To
+ General WASHINGTON. Philadelphia, April 2, 1776.
+
+ Sir: I congratulate you, as well as all the friends of mankind,
+ in the reduction of Boston, an event which appeared to me of so
+ great and decisive importance, that, the next morning after the
+ arrival of the news, I did myself the honour to move for the
+ thanks of Congress to Your Excellency, and that a medal of gold
+ should be struck in commemoration of it. Congress have been
+ pleased to appoint me, with two other gentlemen, to prepare a
+ device. I should be very happy to have Your Excellency's
+ sentiments concerning a proper one.
+
+ I have the honour to be, with great respect, Sir, your most
+ obedient and affectionate servant,
+ John ADAMS.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Washington to John Adams._ (p. 006)
+
+ To
+ John ADAMS, Esq., New York, April 15, 1776.
+ In Congress.
+
+ Sir: I am impressed with the deepest gratitude for the high
+ honour intended me by Congress. Whatever devices may be
+ determined upon by the respectable committee they have chosen for
+ that purpose will be highly agreeable to me.
+
+ I have the honour to be, most respectfully, Sir, your most
+ obedient and affectionate humble servant,
+ Geo. WASHINGTON.
+
+ _____
+
+_Colonel Humphreys to General Washington._
+
+ To
+ General WASHINGTON. Paris, May, 1785.
+
+ My dear General: Upon leaving America Mr. Morris invested me with
+ the power of procuring the several honourary presents which have
+ been voted by Congress to different officers in their service
+ during the late war. The Royal Academy of Inscriptions and
+ Belles-Lettres, to whom I addressed a letter on the subject, have
+ furnished me with the following device and inscriptions for the
+ gold medal which is to be executed for Your Excellency:
+
+ "On one side, the head of the general. Legend: 'GEORGIO
+ WASHINGTON SUPREMO DUCI EXERCITUUM ADSERTORI LIBERTATIS COMITIA
+ AMERICANA.' On the reverse: Taking possession of Boston. The
+ American army advances in good order toward the town, which is
+ seen at a distance, while the British army flies with
+ precipitation toward the shore, to embark on board the vessels,
+ with which the harbour is covered. In the front of the American
+ army appears the general on horseback, in a group of officers,
+ whom he seems to make observe the flight of the enemy. Legend:
+ 'HOSTIBUS PRIMO FUGATIS.' Exergue: 'BOSTONIUM RECUPERATUM DIE
+ XVII MARTII, MDCCLXXVI.'"
+
+ I think it has the character of simplicity and dignity which is
+ to be aimed at in a memorial of this kind, which is designed to
+ transmit the remembrance of a great event to posterity. You
+ really do not know how much your name is venerated on this side
+ of the Atlantic.
+
+ I have the honour to be, my dear General, your sincere friend and
+ humble servant,
+ D. HUMPHREYS.
+
+ _____
+
+_Colonel Humphreys to Thomas Jefferson._
+
+ To
+ Thomas JEFFERSON, Esq., London, January 30, 1786.
+ Paris.
+
+ Dear Sir: Gatteaux, the engraver, lives in the street St. Thomas
+ du Louvre, opposite the Treasury of the Duke de Chartres.
+
+ Now that there is no obstacle to commencing the medal for (p. 007)
+ General Washington, since Houdon's return, I could wish,
+ should it not be giving you too much trouble, that you would send
+ for Duvivier, who lives in the old Louvre, and propose to him
+ undertaking it upon exactly the terms he had offered, which, I
+ think, were 2,400 livres, besides the gold and expense of
+ coinage. If he should not choose it, we must let it rest until
+ Dupre shall have finished General Greene's. Gatteaux has a paper
+ on which is the description of General Washington's medal.
+
+ I am, Sir, your most obedient and humble servant,
+ D. HUMPHREYS.
+
+ _____
+
+_Thomas Jefferson to Colonel Humphreys._
+
+ To
+ Colonel HUMPHREYS, Paris, May 7, 1786.
+ London.
+
+ Dear Sir: I have received the books and papers you mention, and
+ will undertake to have finished what you left undone of the
+ medals, or, at least, will proceed in it till the matter shall be
+ put into better hands.
+
+ I am, dear Sir, your friend and servant,
+ Th: JEFFERSON.
+
+
+
+No. 2. (p. 008)
+PLATE II.
+
+
+_October 17, 1777._
+
+ Horatio Gates duci strenuo Comitia Americana. [Rx]. Salus
+ regionum septentrional.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL HORATIO GATES.
+
+[_Surrender of the British Army at Saratoga._]
+
+HORATIO GATES DUCI STRENUO COMITIA AMERICANA. (_The American Congress
+to Horatio Gates, a valiant general._) Bust of General Gates, in
+uniform, facing the left. N. GATTEAUX.
+
+SALUS REGIONUM SEPTENTRIONAL. (_Salus regionum septentrionalium: The
+safety of the northern regions._) Lieutenant-General Burgoyne is
+surrendering his sword to General Gates. In the background, on the
+left, the vanquished troops of Great Britain are grounding their arms
+and standards. On the right is the victorious American army, in order
+of battle, with colors flying.[29] Exergue: HOSTE AD SARATOGAM IN
+DEDITION. (_deditionem_) ACCEPTO DIE XVII. OCT. (_Octobris_)
+MDCCLXXVII. (_The enemy surrendered at Saratoga, on the 17th of
+October, 1777._) On the platform, GATTEAUX, F. (_fecit_).[30]
+
+ [Footnote 29: The "stars and stripes." Congress
+ passed, June 14, 1777, the following resolution:
+
+ _Resolved_, That the flag of the thirteen United
+ States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and
+ white; that the union be thirteen stars, white on a
+ blue field, representing a new constellation.
+
+ And it was to this new American flag that General
+ Burgoyne surrendered.
+
+ Congress changed the flag by the following act,
+ which was approved January 13, 1794:
+
+ _Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of
+ Representatives of the United States in Congress
+ assembled_, That from and after the first day of
+ May, anno Domini one thousand seven hundred and
+ ninety-five, the flag of the United States be
+ fifteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the
+ union be fifteen stars, white on a blue field.
+
+ Congress made a second change by an act approved
+ April 14, 1818:
+
+ _Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of
+ Representatives of the United States in Congress
+ assembled_, That from and after the fourth day of
+ July next, the flag of the United States be
+ thirteen horizontal stripes, alternate red and
+ white; that the union be twenty stars, white on a
+ blue field.
+
+ SECTION 2. _And be it further enacted_, That on the
+ admission of every new State into the Union, one
+ star be added to the union of the flag; and that
+ such addition shall take place on the fourth day of
+ July then next succeeding such admission.]
+
+ [Footnote 30: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xi, xiii,
+ xvi, xvii, xxx, xxxv; and B, xxxvi.]
+
+The legend of the obverse of this medal, originally proposed by (p. 009)
+the French Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres, was HORATIO
+GATES DUCI PROVIDO COMITIA AMERICANA; and that of the reverse, SALUS
+PROVINCIARUM SEPTENTRIONALIUM.
+
+
+NICOLAS MARIE GATTEAUX was born in Paris, August 2, 1751, and in the
+latter part of the reign of Louis XVI. was appointed engraver of
+medals to the king. During the French Revolution he was intrusted with
+the execution of various works of art for different branches of the
+public service. The process followed in the printing of assignats, of
+bills of exchange, and of lottery tickets, as well as the
+printing-press which works at the same time with the dry and wet
+stamp, were his inventions. He designed and engraved a number of
+medals representing eminent persons, or important events of the
+period, including three relating to the War of Independence, viz.,
+those of General Gates, General Wayne, and Major John Stewart He died
+in Paris, June 24, 1832.
+
+
+HORATIO GATES was born in Malden, England, in 1728. He entered the
+British army when young, and served under General Lord Cornwallis in
+Nova Scotia, and afterward under General Braddock in his campaign
+against Fort Duquesne, but, being severely wounded during the retreat,
+left the army and settled in Virginia. Having received a commission as
+adjutant-general, with the rank of brigadier, he accompanied
+Washington to Cambridge in July, 1775. While commander-in-chief of the
+northern army, he defeated General John Burgoyne at Stillwater,
+September 17, 1777, and received his surrender at Saratoga on the 17th
+of October following, for which most important achievement Congress
+gave him a vote of thanks and a gold medal.[31] He was appointed
+commander-in-chief of the southern department in June, 1780, but,
+being defeated shortly afterward at Camden, on the 16th of August, he
+was superseded by General Greene. During the remainder of the war he
+played no prominent part, and, at the conclusion of peace, retired to
+his estate, in Virginia. In 1790 he removed to New York city, where he
+died, April 10, 1806.
+
+ [Footnote 31: The victory at Saratoga is also
+ commemorated in the Libertas Americana medal, No.
+ 14, page 86, which was struck in Paris in 1783,
+ under the direction of Dr. Franklin.]
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 010)
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to General Gates._
+
+IN CONGRESS.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the thanks of Congress, in their own name, and
+ in behalf of the inhabitants of the thirteen United States, be
+ presented to Major-General Gates, commander-in-chief in the
+ northern department, and to Major-Generals Lincoln and Arnold,
+ and the rest of the officers and troops under his command, for
+ their brave and successful efforts in support of the independence
+ of their country, whereby an army of the enemy, of ten thousand
+ men, has been totally defeated; one large detachment of it,
+ strongly posted and intrenched, having been conquered at
+ Bennington; another repulsed with loss and disgrace from Fort
+ Schuyler; and the main army of six thousand men, under
+ Lieutenant-General Burgoyne, after being beaten in different
+ actions, and driven from a formidable post and strong
+ intrenchments, reduced to the necessity of surrendering
+ themselves upon terms honourable and advantageous to these
+ States, on the 17th day of October last, to Major-General Gates;
+ and that a medal of gold be struck, under the direction of the
+ Board of War, in commemoration of this great event, and in the
+ name of these United States presented by the President to
+ Major-General Gates.
+
+ Tuesday, November 4, 1777.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Gates to the President of Congress._
+
+ To His Excellency
+ John HANCOCK, Esq., Camp Saratoga,
+ President of Congress. October 18, 1777.
+
+ Sir: I have the satisfaction to present Your Excellency with the
+ convention of Saratoga, by which His Excellency
+ Lieutenant-General Burgoyne has surrendered himself and his whole
+ army into my hands, and they are now upon their march for Boston.
+ This signal and important event is the more glorious, as it was
+ effected with so little loss to the army of the United States.
+
+ This letter will be presented to Your Excellency by my
+ adjutant-general, Colonel Wilkinson, to whom I must beg leave to
+ refer Your Excellency for the particulars that brought this great
+ business to so happy and fortunate a conclusion.
+
+ I desire to be permitted to recommend this gallant officer in the
+ warmest manner to Congress, and entreat that he may be continued
+ in his present office, with the brevet of a brigadier-general.
+
+ The honourable Congress will believe me when I assure them that,
+ from the beginning of this war, I have not met with a more
+ promising military genius than Colonel Wilkinson, and whose
+ services have been of the greatest importance to this army.
+
+ I am, Sir, Your Excellency's most obedient and humble servant,
+ Horatio GATES.
+
+ _____
+
+_Articles of Convention between Major-General Gates and (p. 011)
+Lieutenant-General Burgoyne._
+
+ I.
+
+ The troops under Lieutenant-General Burgoyne to march out of
+ their camp, with the honours of war and the artillery of the
+ intrenchments, to the verge of the river, where the old fort
+ stood, where the arms and artillery are to be left, the arms to
+ be piled by word of command from their own officers.
+
+ II.
+
+ A free passage to be granted to the army under Lieutenant-General
+ Burgoyne to Great Britain, on condition of not serving again in
+ North America during the present contest; and the port of Boston
+ is assigned for the entry of transports to receive the troops
+ whensoever General Howe shall so order.
+
+ III.
+
+ Should any cartel take place by which the army under General
+ Burgoyne, or any part of it, may be exchanged, the foregoing
+ article to be void, as far as such exchange be made.
+
+ IV.
+
+ The army under Lieutenant-General Burgoyne to march to
+ Massachusetts Bay by the easiest, most expeditious and convenient
+ route, and to be quartered in, near, or as convenient as possible
+ to, Boston, that the march of the troops may not be delayed when
+ transports arrive to receive them.
+
+ V.
+
+ The troops to be supplied, on their march and during their being
+ in quarters, with provisions, by General Gates's orders, at the
+ same rate of rations as the troops of his own army; and, if
+ possible, the officers' horses and cattle are to be supplied with
+ forage at the usual rates.
+
+ VI.
+
+ All officers to retain their carriages, bathorses, and other
+ cattle, and no baggage to be molested or searched,
+ Lieutenant-General Burgoyne giving his honour that there are no
+ public stores secreted therein. Major-General Gates will, of
+ course, take the necessary measures for the due performance of
+ this article. Should any carriages be wanted, during the march,
+ for the transportation of officers' baggage, they are, if
+ possible, to be supplied by the country at the usual rates.
+
+ VII.
+
+ Upon the march, and during the time the army shall remain in
+ quarters in Massachusetts Bay, the officers are not, as far as
+ circumstances admit, to be separated from their men. The officers
+ are to be quartered according to rank, and are not to be hindered
+ from assembling their men for roll-call, and other necessary
+ purposes of regularity.
+
+ VIII. (p. 012)
+
+ All corps whatsoever of Lieutenant-General Burgoyne's army,
+ whether composed of sailors, bateaumen, artificers, drivers,
+ independent companies, and followers of the army, of whatever
+ country, shall be included in the fullest sense and the utmost
+ extent of the above articles, and comprehended in every respect
+ as British subjects.
+
+ IX.
+
+ All Canadians and persons belonging to the Canadian
+ establishment, consisting of sailors, bateaumen, artificers,
+ drivers, independent companies, and many other followers of the
+ army, who come under no particular description, are to be
+ permitted to return there; they are to be conducted immediately,
+ by the shortest route, to the first British post on Lake George,
+ are to be supplied with provisions in the same manner as the
+ other troops, and are to be bound by the same condition of not
+ serving during the present contest in North America.
+
+ X.
+
+ Passports to be immediately granted for three officers, not
+ exceeding the rank of captains, who shall be appointed by
+ Lieutenant-General Burgoyne to carry despatches to Sir William
+ Howe, Sir Guy Carleton, and to Great Britain, by the way of New
+ York; and Major-General Gates engages the public faith that these
+ despatches shall not be opened. These officers are to set out
+ immediately after receiving their despatches, and are to travel
+ the shortest route and in the most expeditious manner.
+
+ XI.
+
+ During the stay of the troops in Massachusetts Bay the officers
+ are to be admitted on parole, and are to be allowed to wear their
+ side arms.
+
+ XII.
+
+ Should the army under Lieutenant-General Burgoyne find it
+ necessary to send for their clothing and other baggage to Canada,
+ they are permitted to do it in the most convenient manner, and
+ the necessary passports granted for that purpose.
+
+ XIII.
+
+ These articles are to be mutually signed and exchanged to-morrow
+ morning at nine o'clock, and the troops under Lieutenant-General
+ Burgoyne are to march out of their intrenchments at three o'clock
+ in the afternoon.
+
+ Horatio GATES, Major-General.
+ J. BURGOYNE, Lieutenant-General.
+
+ Saratoga, October 16, 1777.
+
+ To prevent any doubts that might arise from Lieutenant-General
+ Burgoyne's name not being mentioned in the above treaty,
+ Major-General Gates hereby declares that he is understood to be
+ comprehended in it as fully as if his name had been specifically
+ mentioned.
+
+ Horatio GATES.
+
+ _____
+
+_Thomas Jefferson to Colonel Humphreys._ (p. 013)
+
+ To
+ Colonel HUMPHREYS, Paris, December 4, 1785.
+ London.
+
+ Dear Sir: I inclose a letter from Gatteaux, observing that there
+ will be an anachronism if, in making a medal to commemorate the
+ victory of Saratoga, he puts on General Gates the insignia of the
+ Cincinnati, which did not exist at that date. I wrote him, in
+ answer, that I thought so, too, but that you had the direction of
+ the business; that you were now in London; that I would write to
+ you, and probably should have an answer within a fortnight; and
+ that, in the mean time, he could be employed on other parts of
+ the die. I supposed you might not have observed on the print of
+ General Gates the insignia of the Cincinnati, or did not mean
+ that that particular should be copied. Another reason against it
+ strikes me: Congress have studiously avoided giving to the public
+ their sense of this institution. Should medals be prepared to be
+ presented from them to certain officers, and bearing on them the
+ insignia of the order, as the presenting them would involve an
+ approbation of the institution, a previous question would be
+ forced on them, whether they would present these medals. I am of
+ opinion it would be very disagreeable to them to be placed under
+ the necessity of making this declaration. Be so good as to let me
+ know your wishes on this subject by the first post, and be
+ assured of the esteem with which I am, dear Sir, your friend and
+ servant,
+ Th: JEFFERSON.
+
+ _____
+
+_Colonel Humphreys to Thomas Jefferson._
+
+ To
+ Thomas JEFFERSON, Esq., London, Leicester Square, No. 18.
+ Paris.
+
+ Dear Sir: I have been honoured with your favour of December 4th,
+ and on the subject of Gatteaux' application take the liberty to
+ inform you that I never had an idea of his engraving the insignia
+ of the Cincinnati. I clearly see the impropriety of it. I should,
+ therefore, be much obliged if you would take the trouble of
+ giving him definitive instructions on this and any other points
+ that may occur in the execution of the medal....
+
+ I am, with the sincerest affection, dear Sir, your most obedient
+ and humble servant,
+ D. HUMPHREYS.
+
+
+
+No. 3. (p. 014)
+PLATE III.
+
+
+_July 15, 7779._
+
+ Antonio Wayne duci exercitus Comitia Americana. [Rx].
+ Stoney-Point expugnatum.
+
+BRIGADIER-GENERAL ANTHONY WAYNE.
+
+[_Taking of Stony Point._]
+
+ANTONIO WAYNE DUCI EXERCITUS COMITIA AMERICANA. (_The American
+Congress to General Anthony Wayne._) America, personified as an Indian
+queen, standing, and having at her feet a bow, an alligator, and the
+American shield, presents to General Wayne a laurel and a mural crown.
+GATTEAUX.
+
+STONEY-POINT (_sic_) EXPUGNATUM. (_Stony Point carried by storm._) The
+American troops carrying Stony Point by assault. Six ships on the
+Hudson River. Exergue: XV JUL. MDCCLXXIX. (_15 Julii, 1779: July 15,
+1779._) On the platform, GATTEAUX.[32]
+
+ [Footnote 32: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xix,
+ xxviii, xxx, xxxv; D, xli; and H, xlvii.]
+
+
+ANTHONY WAYNE was born at Waynesborough, Chester County, Pennsylvania,
+January 1, 1745. He was educated in Philadelphia. In 1774 he was elected
+a member of the Pennsylvania Convention, and in 1775 was appointed
+colonel of a regiment under General Thomas in Canada, and took part in
+the engagements at Three Rivers and at Ticonderoga. In 1777 he was
+promoted to the rank of brigadier-general under Washington, and fought
+at the Brandywine, Germantown, and Monmouth. On the night of July 15,
+1779, he surprised and took Stony Point, on the Hudson River, for
+which gallant deed Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold
+medal. He afterward served in the South, occupied Savannah, July 11,
+1782, and Charleston, South Carolina, on the 14th of December
+following, and retired to his estate at the close of the war. On April
+3, 1792, he was appointed major-general and commander-in-chief in the
+war against the western Indians, and in 1794 gained an important
+victory over the Miami tribe of Indians. He died at Presque Isle, (p. 015)
+now Erie, Pennsylvania, December 14, 1796. In 1809, his son, Colonel
+Wayne, removed his remains to the cemetery of Radnor church, near
+Waynesborough, where the Pennsylvania State Society of the Cincinnati
+caused a handsome monument to be erected to his memory. He was known
+during the Revolutionary War by the sobriquet of "Mad Anthony."
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to General Wayne, to Lieutenant
+Colonel de Fleury, and to Major Stewart, etc._
+
+IN CONGRESS ASSEMBLED.
+
+ _Resolved unanimously_, That the thanks of Congress be given to
+ His Excellency General Washington for the vigilance, wisdom, and
+ magnanimity with which he hath conducted the military operations
+ of these States, and which are among many other signal instances
+ manifested in his orders for the late glorious enterprize and
+ successful attack on the enemy's fortress on the bank of Hudson's
+ river.
+
+ _Resolved unanimously_, That the thanks of Congress be presented
+ to Brigadier-General Wayne for his brave, prudent, and soldierly
+ conduct in the spirited and well-conducted attack of Stony Point.
+
+ _Resolved unanimously_, That Congress entertain a proper sense of
+ the good conduct of the officers and soldiers under the command
+ of Brigadier-General Wayne, in the assault of the enemy's works
+ at Stony Point, and highly commend the coolness, discipline, and
+ firm intrepidity exhibited on that occasion.
+
+ _Resolved unanimously_, That Lieutenant-Colonel Fleury and Major
+ Stewart, who by their situation in leading the two attacks had a
+ more immediate opportunity of distinguishing themselves, have, by
+ their personal achievements, exhibited a bright example to their
+ brother soldiers, and merit in a particular manner the
+ approbation and acknowledgment of the United States.
+
+ _Resolved unanimously_, That Congress warmly approve and applaud
+ the cool determined spirit with which Lieutenant Gibbons and
+ Lieutenant Knox led on the forlorn hope, braving danger and death
+ in the cause of their country.
+
+ _Resolved unanimously_, That a medal, emblematical of this
+ action, be struck:
+
+ That one of gold be presented to Brigadier-General Wayne, and a
+ silver one to Lieutenant-Colonel Fleury and Major Stewart
+ respectively.
+
+ _Resolved unanimously_, That brevets of captain be given to
+ Lieutenant Gibbons and Lieutenant Knox.
+
+ That the brevet of captain be given to Mr. Archer, the bearer of
+ the general's letter, and volunteer aid to Brigadier-General
+ Wayne.
+
+ That Congress approve the promises of reward made by General (p. 016)
+ Wayne, with the concurrence of the commander-in-chief, to the
+ troops under his command.
+
+ That the value of the military stores taken at Stony Point be
+ ascertained, and divided among the gallant troops by whom it was
+ reduced, in such manner and proportion as the commander-in-chief
+ shall prescribe.
+
+ Monday, July 26, 1779.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Washington to the President of Congress._
+
+ To New Windsor, half-past nine o'clock,
+ THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. July 16, 1779.
+
+ Sir: I have the pleasure to transmit to Your Excellency the
+ inclosed copy of a letter from Brigadier-General Wayne, which
+ this moment came to hand. I congratulate Congress upon our
+ success, and what makes it still more agreeable from the report
+ of Captain Fishbourn, who brought me General Wayne's letter, the
+ post was gained with but very inconsiderable loss on our part. As
+ soon as I receive a particular account of the affair, I shall
+ transmit it.
+
+ I have the honour to be, etc.,
+ Geo. WASHINGTON.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Wayne to General Washington._
+
+ To Stony Point, two o'clock A.M.,
+ General WASHINGTON. July 16, 1779.
+
+ Dear General: The fort and garrison with Colonel Johnson are
+ ours. Our officers and men behaved like men who are determined to
+ be free.
+ Yours, most sincerely,
+ Anthony WAYNE.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Washington to the President of Congress._
+
+ To
+ THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. New Windsor, July 20, 1779.
+
+ Sir: On the 16th instant I had the honour to inform Congress of a
+ successful attack upon the enemy's post at Stony Point, on the
+ preceding night, by Brigadier-General Wayne and the corps of
+ light infantry under his command. The ulterior operations on
+ which we have been engaged have hitherto put it out of my power
+ to transmit the particulars of this interesting event. They will
+ now be found in the inclosed report, which I have received from
+ General Wayne. To the encomiums he has deservedly bestowed on the
+ officers and men under his command, it gives me pleasure to add,
+ that his own conduct throughout the whole of this arduous
+ enterprize merits the warmest approbation of Congress. He (p. 017)
+ improved upon the plan recommended by me, and executed it in a
+ manner that does signal honour to his judgment and to his
+ bravery. In a critical moment of the assault, he received a flesh
+ wound in the head with a musket ball, but continued leading on
+ his men with unshaken firmness.
+
+ I now beg leave, for the private satisfaction of Congress, to
+ explain the motives which induced me to direct the attempt. In my
+ former letters I have pointed out the advantages which the enemy
+ derived from the possession of this post and the one on the
+ opposite side, and the inconveniences resulting from it to us. To
+ deprive them of the former, and to remove the latter, were
+ sufficient inducements to endeavour to dispossess them. The
+ necessity of doing something to satisfy the expectations of the
+ people, and reconcile them to the defensive plan we are obliged
+ to pursue, and to the apparent inactivity which our situation
+ imposes upon us; the value of the acquisition in itself, with
+ respect to the men, artillery, and stores, which composed the
+ garrison; the effect it would have upon the successive operations
+ of the campaign, and the check it would give to the immediate
+ depredations of the enemy at the present season; all these
+ motives concurred to determine me to the undertaking. The certain
+ advantages of success, even if not so extensive as might be
+ hoped, would, at all events, be very important; the probable
+ disadvantages of a failure were comparatively inconsiderable,
+ and, on the plan which was adopted, could amount to little more
+ than the loss of a small number of men.
+
+ After reconnoitering the post myself, and collecting all the
+ information I could get of its strength and situation, I found
+ that, without hazarding a greater loss than we were able to
+ afford, and with little likelihood of success, the attempt to
+ carry it could only be by way of surprize. I therefore resolved
+ on this mode, and gave my instructions to General Wayne
+ accordingly, in hopes that Verplanck's Point might fall in
+ consequence of the reduction of the other. Dispositions were made
+ for the purpose, which unluckily did not succeed. The evening
+ appointed for the attack, I directed Major-General McDougall to
+ put two brigades under marching orders to be moved down toward
+ Verplanck's, as soon as he should receive intelligence of the
+ success of the attempt on this side, and requested General Wayne
+ to let his despatches to me pass through General McDougall, that
+ he might have the earliest advice of the event. But by some
+ misconception, they came directly to headquarters, which
+ occasioned a loss of several hours. The next morning
+ Major-General Howe was sent to take the command of those troops,
+ with orders to advance to the vicinity of the enemy's works, and
+ open batteries against them. I was in hopes that this might
+ either awe them, under the impression of what had happened on the
+ other side, to surrender, or prepare the way for an assault. But
+ some accidental delays, in bringing on the heavy cannon and
+ intrenching tools necessary for an operation of this kind,
+ unavoidably retarded its execution, till the approach of the
+ enemy's main body made it too late. General Howe, to avoid being
+ intercepted, found himself under the necessity of relinquishing
+ his project and returning to a place of security. I did not unite
+ the two attacks at the same time and in the same manner, because
+ this would have rendered the enterprize more complex, more liable
+ to suspicion, and less likely to succeed for want of an exact
+ co-operation, which could hardly have been expected.
+ When I came to examine the post at Stony Point, I found it (p. 018)
+ would require more men to maintain it than we could afford,
+ without incapacitating the army for other operations. In the
+ opinion of the engineer, corresponding with my own and that of
+ all the general officers present, not less than fifteen hundred
+ men would be requisite for its defence; and, from the nature of
+ the works, which were opened toward the river, a great deal of
+ labour and expense must have been incurred, and much time
+ employed to make them defensible by us. The enemy, depending on
+ their shipping to protect their rear, had constructed the works
+ solely against an attack by land. We should have had to apprehend
+ equally an attack by water, and must have inclosed the post.
+ While we were doing this, the whole army must have been in the
+ vicinity, exposed to the risk of a general action, on terms which
+ it would not be our interest to court, and too distant to assist
+ in carrying on the fortifications at West Point, or to support
+ them in case of necessity. These considerations made it a
+ unanimous sentiment to evacuate the post, remove the cannon and
+ stores, and destroy the works, which was accomplished on the
+ night of the 18th, one piece of heavy cannon only excepted. For
+ want of proper tackling within reach to transport the cannon by
+ land, we were obliged to send them to the fort by water. The
+ movements of the enemy's vessels created some uneasiness on their
+ account, and induced me to keep one of the pieces for their
+ protection, which finally could not be brought off without
+ risking more for its preservation than it was worth. We also lost
+ a galley, which was ordered down to cover the boats. She got
+ under way on her return the afternoon of the 18th. The enemy
+ began a severe and continued cannonade upon her, from which
+ having suffered some injury she was run on shore, which disabled
+ her from proceeding. As she could not be got afloat till late in
+ the flood-tide, and one or two of the enemy's vessels under
+ favour of the night passed above her, she was set on fire and
+ blown up.
+
+ Disappointed in our attempt on the other side, we may lose some
+ of the principal advantages hoped from the undertaking. The enemy
+ may re-establish the post at Stony Point, and still continue to
+ interrupt that communication. Had both places been carried,
+ though we should not have been able to occupy them ourselves,
+ there is great reason to believe the enemy would hardly have
+ mutilated their main body a second time, and gone through the
+ same trouble to regain possession of posts where they had been so
+ unfortunate. But though we may not reap all the benefits which
+ might have followed, those we do reap are very important. The
+ diminution of the enemy's force, by the loss of so many men, will
+ be felt in their present circumstances. The artillery and stores
+ will be a valuable acquisition to us, especially in our scarcity
+ of heavy cannon for the forts. The event will have a good effect
+ upon the minds of the people, give our troops greater confidence
+ in themselves, and depress the spirits of the enemy
+ proportionably. If they resolve to re-establish the post, they
+ must keep their force collected for the purpose. This will serve
+ to confine their ravages within a narrower compass, and to a part
+ of the country already exhausted. They must lose part of the
+ remainder of the campaign in rebuilding the works; and when they
+ have left a garrison for its defence, their main body, by being
+ lessened, must act with so much the less energy, and so much the
+ greater caution.
+
+ They have now brought their whole force up the river, and
+ yesterday they landed a body at Stony Point. It is supposed not
+ impossible that General Clinton may retaliate by a stroke (p. 019)
+ upon West Point; and his having stripped New York and its
+ dependencies pretty bare, and brought up a number of small boats,
+ are circumstances that give a colour to the surmise. Though all
+ this may very well be resolved into different motives, prudence
+ requires that our dispositions should have immediate reference to
+ the security of this post; and I have, therefore, drawn our force
+ together, so that the whole may act in its defence on an
+ emergency. To-morrow I shall remove my own quarters to the fort.
+
+ It is probable Congress will be pleased to bestow some marks of
+ consideration upon those officers who distinguished themselves
+ upon this occasion. Every officer and man of the corps deserves
+ great credit; but there were particular ones, whose situation
+ placed them foremost in danger, and made their conduct most
+ conspicuous. Lieutenant-Colonel Fleury and Major Stewart
+ commanded the two attacks. Lieutenants Gibbons and Knox commanded
+ the advanced parties, or _forlorn hope_; and all acquitted
+ themselves as well as possible. These officers have a claim to be
+ more particularly noticed. In any other service promotion would
+ be the proper reward, but in ours it would be injurious. I take
+ the liberty to recommend in preference some honourary present,
+ especially to the field-officers. A brevet captaincy to the other
+ two, as it will have no operation in regimental rank, may not be
+ amiss.
+
+ Congress will perceive that some pecuniary rewards were promised
+ by General Wayne to his corps. This was done with my concurrence;
+ and in addition to them, as a greater incitement to their
+ exertions, they were also promised the benefit of whatever was
+ taken in the fort. The artillery and stores are converted to the
+ use of the public, but, in compliance with my engagements, it
+ will be necessary to have them appraised, and the amount paid to
+ the captors in money. I hope my conduct in this instance will not
+ be disapproved. Mr. Archer, who will have the honour of
+ delivering these despatches, is a volunteer aid to General Wayne,
+ and a gentleman of merit. His zeal, activity, and spirit are
+ conspicuous on every occasion.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Geo. WASHINGTON.
+
+ P.S. Congress may be at a loss what to do with Mr. Archer. A
+ captain's brevet, or commission in the army at large, will be
+ equal to his wishes; and he deserves encouragement on every
+ account. Lest there should be any misapprehension as to what is
+ mentioned about the manner of sending despatches through General
+ McDougall, I beg leave to be more explicit. I directed General
+ Wayne, when he marched from his ground, to send his despatches in
+ the first instance to the officer of his baggage guard, left at
+ the encampment from which he marched, who was to inform his
+ messenger where I was to be found. I left word with this officer
+ to forward the messenger to General McDougall, and I desired
+ General McDougall to open the despatches. The messenger, who was
+ Captain Fishbourn, came directly on, either through misconception
+ in General Wayne, in the officer of the guard, or in himself.
+
+ I forgot to mention that there are two standards taken, one
+ belonging to the garrison and one to the Seventeenth regiment;
+ these shall be sent to Congress by the first convenient
+ opportunity.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Wayne to General Washington._ (p. 020)
+
+ To
+ General WASHINGTON. Stony Point, July 17, 1779.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour to give you a full and particular relation
+ of the reduction of this Point, by the light infantry under my
+ command.
+
+ On the 15th instant, at twelve o'clock, we took our line of march
+ from Sandy Beach, distant fourteen miles from this place; the
+ roads being exceedingly bad and narrow, and having to pass over
+ high mountains, through deep morasses and difficult defies, we
+ were obliged to move in single files the greatest part of the
+ way. At eight o'clock in the evening the van arrived at Mr.
+ Springsteel's, within one mile and a half of the enemy, and
+ formed into columns as fast as they came up, agreeably to the
+ order of battle annexed; namely, Colonels Febiger's and Meigs'
+ regiments, with Major Hull's detachment, formed the right column;
+ Colonel Butler's regiment and Major Murfey's two companies the
+ left. The troops remained in this position until several of the
+ principal officers with myself had returned from reconnoitering
+ the works. At half-past eleven o'clock, being the hour fixed on,
+ the whole moved forward. The van of the right consisted of one
+ hundred and fifty volunteers, properly officered, who advanced
+ with unloaded muskets and fixed bayonets, under the command of
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Fleury; these were preceded by twenty picked
+ men, and a vigilant and brave officer, to remove the abatis and
+ other obstructions. The van of the left consisted of one hundred
+ volunteers, under the command of Major Stewart, with unloaded
+ muskets and fixed bayonets, also preceded by a brave and
+ determined officer with twenty men, for the same purpose as the
+ other.
+
+ At twelve o'clock, the assault was to begin on the right and left
+ flanks of the enemy's works, while Major Murfey amused them in
+ front; but a deep morass covering their whole front, and at this
+ time overflowed by the tide, together with other obstructions,
+ rendered the approaches more difficult than was at first
+ apprehended, so that it was about twenty minutes after twelve
+ before the assault began. Previously to which I placed myself at
+ the head of Febiger's regiment, or the right column, and gave the
+ troops the most pointed orders not to fire on any account, but
+ place their whole dependence on the bayonet, which order was
+ literally and faithfully obeyed. Neither the deep morass, the
+ formidable and double rows of abatis, nor the strong works in
+ front and flank, could damp the ardour of the troops, who, in the
+ face of a most tremendous and incessant fire of musketry, and
+ from cannon loaded with grape-shot, forced their way at the point
+ of the bayonet through every obstacle, both columns meeting in
+ the centre of the enemy's works nearly at the same instant. Too
+ much praise cannot be given to Lieutenant-Colonel Fleury (who
+ struck the enemy's standard with his own hand) and to Major
+ Stewart, who commanded the advanced parties, for their brave and
+ prudent conduct.
+
+ Colonels Butler, Meigs, and Febiger conducted themselves with
+ that coolness, bravery, and perseverance that will ever insure
+ success.
+
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Hay was wounded in the thigh, bravely fighting
+ at the head of his battalion. I should take up too much of Your
+ Excellency's time were I to particularize every individual who
+ deserves it, for his bravery on this occasion. I cannot, (p. 021)
+ however, omit Major Lee, to whom I am indebted for frequent and
+ very useful intelligence, which contributed much to the success
+ of the enterprize, and it is with the greatest pleasure I
+ acknowledge to you, that I was supported in the attack by all the
+ officers and soldiers under my command, to the utmost of my wishes.
+ The officers and privates of the artillery exerted themselves in
+ turning the cannon against Verplanck's Point, and forced the
+ enemy to cut the cables of their shipping, and run down the river.
+
+ I should be wanting in gratitude were I to omit mentioning
+ Captain Fishbourn and Mr. Archer, my two aids-de-camp, who, on
+ every occasion, showed the greatest intrepidity, and supported me
+ into the works after I received my wound in passing the last
+ abatis.
+
+ Inclosed are the returns of the killed and wounded of the light
+ infantry, as also of the enemy, together with the number of
+ prisoners taken; likewise of the ordnance and stores found in the
+ garrison.
+
+ I forgot to inform Your Excellency that, previously to my
+ marching, I had drawn General Muhlenberg into my rear, who, with
+ three hundred men of his brigade, took post on the opposite side
+ of the marsh, so as to be in readiness either to support me, or
+ to cover a retreat, in case of accident; and I have no doubt of
+ his faithfully and effectually executing either, had there been
+ any occasion for him.
+
+ The humanity of our brave soldiery, who scorned to take the lives
+ of a vanquished foe calling for mercy, reflects the highest
+ honour on them, and accounts for the few of the enemy killed on
+ the occasion.
+
+ I am not satisfied with the manner in which I have mentioned the
+ conduct of Lieutenants Gibbons and Knox, the two gentlemen who
+ led the advanced parties of twenty men each. Their distinguished
+ bravery deserves the highest commendation. The former belongs to
+ the Sixth Pennsylvania regiment, and lost seventeen men killed
+ and wounded in the attack; the latter belongs to the Ninth
+ Pennsylvania regiment, and was more fortunate in saving his men,
+ though not less exposed.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Anthony WAYNE.
+
+
+
+No. 4. (p. 022)
+PLATE IV.
+
+
+_July 15, 1779._
+
+ Virtutis et audaciae monum. et praemium. [Rx]. Aggeres paludes
+ hostes victi.
+
+LIEUTENANT-COLONEL DE FLEURY.
+
+[_Taking of Stony Point._]
+
+VIRTUTIS ET AUDACIAE MONUM. ET PRAEMIUM. (_Virtutis et audaciae
+monumentum et praemium: A memorial and reward of courage and
+boldness._) Lieutenant-Colonel de Fleury, as a Roman soldier,
+helmeted, stands amidst the ruins of a fort, holding in his right hand
+a sword, and in his left the staff of an enemy's flag, which he
+tramples under his right foot Exergue: D. (_sic_) DE FLEURY EQUITI
+GALLO PRIMO SUPER MUROS RESP. AMERIC. D.D. (_D. de Fleury equiti gallo
+primo super muros Respublica Americana dono dedit: The American
+Republic presented this gift to D. de Fleury, a French knight, the
+first to mount the walls._) DUVIVIER.
+
+AGGERES PALUDES HOSTES VICTI. (_Fortifications, marshes, enemies
+overcome._) The fortress of Stony Point. Six vessels on the Hudson
+River. Exergue: STONY-PT. EXPUGN. XV JUL. MDCCLXXIX. (_Stony Point
+expugnatum, 15 Julii, 1779: Stony Point carried by storm, July 15,
+1779_).[33]
+
+ [Footnote 33: See INTRODUCTION, pages ix, x, xi,
+ xii, xv, xxiii, xxviii, xxxv; G, xlv; and H,
+ xlvii.]
+
+I give an extended biography of the Chevalier de Fleury, the only
+foreigner to whom a medal was awarded during the Revolutionary War,
+because no accurate account of him has hitherto been published. The
+facts were obtained partly from the archives of the French Ministry of
+War, through the politeness of M. Camille Roussel, member of the
+French Academy, and at the time historiographer of the Ministry of
+War, and partly from the archives of the Ministry of Marine. I am (p. 023)
+also indebted to M. Roussel for the memorial (petition) of M. de
+Fleury, a translation of which is given below.
+
+
+FRANCOIS LOUIS TEISSEIDRE DE FLEURY, son of Francois Teisseidre,
+Seigneur de Fleury, was born at St. Hippolyte, Languedoc, France,
+August 28, 1749. He entered the French army as a volunteer in the
+regiment of Rouergue infantry, May 15, 1768; became second-lieutenant,
+September 15, 1768; lieutenant second class, of rifles, June 11, 1776;
+first lieutenant, June 2, 1777; major of Saintonge infantry, March 19,
+1780; colonel of the Pondichery (India) regiment, January 16, 1784;
+marechal-de-camp, June 30, 1791; and resigned, June 24, 1792. He was
+made a knight of St. Louis, December 5, 1781. The Chevalier de Fleury
+served in Corsica during the campaigns of 1768, 1769, and 1770. Having
+been commissioned a captain of engineers in 1776, he obtained a
+furlough and entered the American army as a volunteer, was appointed
+by Congress a captain of engineers, May 22, 1777, and was sent first
+to General Washington's army, and toward the end of the campaign to
+Fort Mifflin, where he was wounded. At the battle of the Brandywine,
+he had a horse shot under him, and was again wounded. Congress presented
+him with a horse, "as a testimonial of the sense they had of his
+merits," September 13, 1777, and promoted him to a lieutenant-colonelcy,
+"in consideration of the disinterested gallantry he had manifested in
+the service of the United States," November 26, 1777. In the assault
+on Stony Point, July 15, 1779, he commanded one of the attacks, was
+the first to enter the main works, and struck the British flag with
+his own hands, for which gallant deed Congress voted him a silver
+medal. On Friday, October 1, 1779, Congress passed the following
+resolution concerning Lieutenant-Colonel de Fleury: "_Resolved_, That
+Congress entertain a high sense of the zeal, activity, military
+genius, and gallantry of Lieutenant-Colonel Fleury, which he has
+exhibited on a variety of occasions during his service in the armies
+of these States, wherein, while he has rendered essential benefit to
+the American cause, he has deservedly acquired the esteem of the army
+and gained unfading reputation for himself." He continued in America
+after General Count de Rochambeau's arrival, serving under him in the
+campaigns of 1780, 1781, and 1782; and received a pension of four
+hundred livres by royal decree of May 8, 1783, in consideration of his
+distinguished services, especially at the siege and taking of (p. 024)
+Yorktown, October 19, 1781. He afterward served in India, commanded
+in chief the islands of Mauritius and of Bourbon from May to November,
+1785, obtained a pension of one thousand livres, in consideration of
+his services, November, 1786, and returned to France in April, 1790.
+He held the rank of marechal-de-camp in the army of the North, and
+commanded at Montmedy after General de Bouille's flight in 1791, and
+at Givet and Cambray in 1791 and 1792. At the breaking out of the war
+he was at Valenciennes, and served under Marshals de Rochambeau and de
+Luckner. During the retreat from Mons his horse, which had been shot
+under him, fell upon him, and, while lying helpless in that position,
+he was ridden over by the enemy's cavalry. After a long illness he
+left the army, June 24, 1792, and retired to Rebais, in the Department
+of Seine-et-Oise.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.[34]
+
+ [Footnote 34: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal, and the official reports of the taking
+ of Stony Point, are given under No. 3, page 14.]
+
+_General Washington to the President of Congress._
+
+ To Headquarters, West Point,
+ THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. July 25, 1779.
+
+ Sir: Lieutenant-Colonel Fleury having communicated to me his
+ intention to return to France at the present juncture, on some
+ matters interesting to himself, I have thought proper to give him
+ this letter to testify to Congress the favourable opinion I
+ entertain of his conduct. The marks of their approbation which he
+ received on a former occasion have been amply justified by all
+ his subsequent behaviour. He has signalized himself in more than
+ one instance since; and in the late assault on Stony Point he
+ commanded one of the attacks, was the first that entered the
+ enemy's works, and struck the British flag with his own hands, as
+ reported by General Wayne. It is but justice to him to declare
+ that, in the different stations in which he has been employed, he
+ has rendered services of real utility, and has acquitted himself
+ in every respect as an officer of distinguished merit, one whose
+ talents, zeal, activity, and bravery alike entitle him to
+ particular notice. He has intimated to me a desire to obtain a
+ furlough for a few months. I doubt not Congress will be disposed
+ to grant him every indulgence which can be granted with
+ propriety.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Geo. WASHINGTON.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Washington to the President of Congress._ (p. 025)
+
+CERTIFICATE.
+
+ To
+ THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. West Point, July 28, 1779.
+
+ I certify that Lieutenant-Colonel Fleury has served in the army
+ of the United States since the beginning of the campaign of 1777,
+ to the present period, and has uniformly acquitted himself as an
+ officer of distinguished merit for talents, zeal, activity,
+ prudence, and bravery; that he first obtained a captain's
+ commission from Congress, and entered as a volunteer in a corps
+ of riflemen, in which, by his activity and bravery, he soon
+ recommended himself to notice; that he next served as
+ brigade-major, with the rank of major, first in the infantry and
+ then in the cavalry, in which stations he acquired reputation in
+ the army, and the approbation of his commanding officers, of
+ which he has the most ample testimonies; that, toward the
+ conclusion of the campaign of 1777, he was sent to the important
+ post of Fort Mifflin in quality of engineer, in which he rendered
+ essential services, and equally signalized his intelligence and
+ his valour.
+
+ That, in consequence of his good conduct on this and on former
+ occasions, he was promoted by Congress to the rank of
+ lieutenant-colonel, and has been since employed in the following
+ stations, namely, as a sub-inspector, as second in command in a
+ corps of light infantry in an expedition against Rhode Island,
+ and lastly as commandant of a battalion of light infantry in the
+ army under my immediate command; that in each of these
+ capacities, as well as the former, he has justified the
+ confidence reposed in him, and acquired more and more the
+ character of a judicious, well-informed, indefatigable, and brave
+ officer. In the assault of Stony Point, a strong fortified post
+ of the enemy on the North River, he commanded one of the attacks,
+ was the first that entered the main works, and struck the British
+ flag with his own hands.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Geo. WASHINGTON.
+
+ _____
+
+ _A Memorial for M. de Fleury, an Officer in the Regiment of
+ Rouergue for twelve years; a Captain of Engineers in the Service
+ of France for three years; and a Lieutenant-Colonel in the
+ Service of the United States for two years._
+
+ M. de Fleury left France with M. du Coudray in 1776.
+
+ He obtained a furlough and was commissioned as a captain of
+ engineers.
+
+ Congress having refused to employ M. du Coudray and the officers
+ who came over with him, almost all of them were discouraged; but
+ M. de Fleury joined the army and served as a volunteer private
+ during a part of the campaign of 1777.
+
+ At the fight of Piscataqua he had the good fortune to be remarked
+ while in performance of his duty, and he was promoted to the rank
+ of captain. (_Certified by Colonel Morgan_).
+
+ He was afterward employed to make a survey of the environs of (p. 026)
+ Philadelphia, which was to be the seat of the approaching campaign,
+ to take soundings in the Delaware, and to fortify Billingsport.
+ (_Certified by General Washington_).
+
+ The enemy having landed at Hith, he joined the army and acted as
+ major of brigade.
+
+ At the battle of the Brandywine, he remained on the field after
+ his brigade had been routed, had a horse shot under him, and
+ carried off a piece of ordnance.
+
+ On the report of General Washington to Congress, it was ordered
+ that a horse be presented to M. de Fleury "as a mark of the high
+ sense Congress entertained of his merits." (_Certified by General
+ Washington and General Sullivan_).
+
+ N.B. This honour has been paid only to General Arnold and M. de
+ Fleury.
+
+ At the battle of Germantown he acted as brigade-major of
+ dragoons, charged several times, and made several prisoners. The
+ horse which had been given to him by Congress was shot under him,
+ and he himself was wounded in the leg. (_Certified by General
+ Count Pulaski_).
+
+ Fort Mifflin, on Mud Island, the only defence of the Delaware,
+ was threatened by the British army and squadron. It was a post of
+ the greatest importance, and M. de Fleury was sent there as chief
+ engineer. He sustained a siege of six weeks behind a stockade. A
+ ship of sixty-four guns, the Augusta, and one of 22 guns, the
+ Merlin, blew up under fire from the fort. The commandant and the
+ garrison, numbering 600 men, were relieved three times, but M. de
+ Fleury refused to leave the fort. He was wounded October 15th,
+ and the fort was evacuated that same night. For this action he
+ was made a lieutenant-colonel, and a letter of thanks was
+ addressed to him by the President of Congress. (_Certified by
+ Congress, the General-in-chief, and M. de la Fayette_).
+
+ During the winter of 1778 he formed the project of crossing the
+ ice and setting fire to the English squadron. The Delaware not
+ being frozen that year hard enough for his purpose, he invented
+ explosive boats, and he was engaged in constructing them when he
+ received orders to join the Army of the North. (_Certified by
+ General Washington and Commodore Hasilwood_).
+
+ The Canadian expedition did not take place, and on his return M.
+ de Fleury was appointed inspector and charged with forming,
+ instructing, and disciplining the troops. (_Certified by General
+ Washington_).
+
+ At the opening of the campaign of 1778 he was second in command
+ of a select corps (in which was the general's body-guard) of 600
+ men, 2 pieces of ordnance, and 50 cavalry. He served in this
+ capacity at the battle of Monmouth and afterward.
+
+ On the arrival of the French squadron, he was sent to meet Count
+ d'Estaing by General Washington, and he went with him to Rhode
+ Island, where an attack was expected.
+
+ It was by his advice that the fruitless siege of Newport was
+ raised, and that the retreat to the north part of the island was
+ resolved upon. The corps in which he served repulsed the enemy
+ and covered the retreat. (_Certified by General Sullivan_).
+
+ When he returned to the Army of the South, Count d'Estaing kindly
+ wrote to General Washington: "Allow me to recommend particularly
+ to your favour M. de Fleury. General Sullivan will tell you what
+ he did at Rhode Island; he is an excellent officer and a useful
+ Frenchman. I should be happy, if the occasion offered, to serve
+ again with him. He is fitted to bring about good feeling among
+ private individuals, and to make them as friendly as our two (p. 027)
+ nations are." (_Letter of M. d'Estaing_).
+
+ At the opening of the campaign of 1779 M. de Fleury was in
+ command of a corps of light infantry; he was the first to mount
+ the ramparts of Stony Point, and he took the enemy's flag with
+ his own hand. (_Certified by the General and by Congress_).
+
+ On this occasion the President of Congress wrote that Congress
+ hoped he would receive some reward from his own country, and the
+ French minister also expressed a hope that his Court would give
+ America, through M. de Fleury, some token of the satisfaction
+ with which the services of a French officer to America were
+ viewed in France. (_Letter from Mr. Jay_).
+
+ When M. de la Luzerne arrived, General Washington requested him
+ to call the attention of the French Court to the conduct of M. de
+ Fleury.
+
+ At the close of the campaign, by the advice of his general, he
+ asked for nine months' leave. At his departure, General
+ Washington wrote to Congress that he desired the return of an
+ officer who had rendered such important services. (_Letter of
+ General Washington_).
+
+ Though far from rich, M. de Fleury declined any pecuniary
+ recompense on leaving America.
+
+ M. de Fleury, having thus by his services risen from the ranks to
+ a lieutenant-colonelcy, and having been honoured by the good will
+ of the nation and of the army, the esteem of Congress and the
+ confidence of his general, ventures to solicit some mark of the
+ approbation of his Prince and of the minister under whose
+ auspices he entered the service of an ally of France.
+
+ Though convinced that he owes his success to his good fortune
+ rather than to his talents, and that by his zeal he has alone
+ been enabled to make up for his deficiency, he ventures to hope
+ that his country will not overlook his services, and that his
+ return to a beloved land--which is a source of happiness to every
+ Frenchman--will not prove in his case a misfortune and a loss.
+
+ P.S. M. de Fleury has made some surveys and written reports which
+ have met with the approbation of M. Girard; he begs to be allowed
+ to present them to the Minister. (_Letter of M. Girard_).
+
+
+
+No. 5. (p. 028)
+PLATE V.
+
+
+_July 15, 1779._
+
+ Joanni Stewart cohortis praefecto Comitia Americana. [Rx].
+ Stoney-Point oppugnatum.
+
+MAJOR JOHN STEWART.
+
+[_Taking of Stony Point._]
+
+JOANNI STEWART COHORTIS PRAEFECTO COMITIA AMERICANA. (_The American
+Congress to Major John Stewart._) America, personified as an Indian
+queen, leaning on the American shield, and having at her feet an
+alligator, presents a palm branch to Major Stewart. GATTEAUX.
+
+STONEY-POINT (_sic_) OPPUGNATUM. (_Stony Point assaulted._) Major
+Stewart, at the head of his men, is crossing an abatis of trees, in
+pursuit of the defeated enemy; in the background the American troops
+are mounting to the assault of Stony Point Six ships are on the Hudson
+River. Exergue: XV JUL. MDCCLXXIX. (_15 Julii, 1779: July 15, 1779._)
+On the platform, GATTEAUX.[35][36]
+
+ [Footnote 35: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xix,
+ xxviii, xxx, xxxv; D, xli; and H, xlvii.]
+
+ [Footnote 36: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal, and the official reports of the taking
+ of Stony Point, are given under No. 3, page 14.]
+
+
+JOHN STEWART was a major of infantry, served under General Wayne, and
+for his gallantry at the storming of Stony Point, on the Hudson River,
+July 15, 1779, Congress voted him a silver medal. No trustworthy
+information can be found concerning him. He is reported to have died
+near Charleston, South Carolina, from injuries caused by a fall from
+his horse.
+
+
+
+No. 6. (p. 029)
+PLATE VI.
+
+
+_August 19, 1779._
+
+ Henrico Lee legionis equit. praefecto. Comitia Americana. [Rx].
+ Non obstantib fluminibus vallis, etc.
+
+MAJOR HENRY LEE.
+
+[_Surprise of Paulus Hook._]
+
+HENRICO LEE LEGIONIS EQUIT. PRAEFECTO. COMITIA AMERICANA. (_Henrico Lee
+legionis equitum praefecto Comitia Americana: The American Congress to
+Henry Lee, major of cavalry._) Bust of Major Lee, facing the right. On
+edge of bust, J. WRIGHT.
+
+Within a crown of laurel: NON OBSTANTIB FLUMINIBUS VALLIS ASTUTIA &
+VIRTUTE BELLICA PARVA MANU HOSTES VICIT VICTOSQ. ARMIS HUMANITATE
+DEVINXIT. IN MEM PUGN AD PAULUS HOOK DIE XIX. AUG. 1779. (_Non
+obstantibus fluminibus vallis astutia et virtute bellica parva manu
+hastes vicit victosque armis humanitate devinxit. In memoria pugni ad
+Paulus Hook, die 19 Augusti, 1779: Notwithstanding rivers and
+ramparts, he conquered, with a handful of men, the enemy by skill and
+valor, and attached by his humanity those vanquished by his arms. In
+commemoration of the battle of Paulus Hook, August 19, 1719._)[37]
+
+ [Footnote 37: See INTRODUCTION, pages xxiii,
+ xxviii, xxxv; and H, xlvii.]
+
+The original die of the obverse of this medal is in the Mint at
+Philadelphia, but the original die of the reverse is not to be found
+there. A new one was engraved for the Mint, some time ago, by Mr. Wm.
+Barber.
+
+
+JOSEPH WRIGHT was born in Bordentown, New Jersey, in 1756. He (p. 030)
+studied painting in England and France, and, after his return to
+America, painted a portrait of General Washington. He was appointed
+first draughtsman and die sinker to the United States Mint, and made
+the dies of a medal, the bust on the obverse of which was considered
+to be the best medallic profile likeness of Washington. He also made
+the medal voted by Congress to Major Lee. He died in Philadelphia in
+1793.
+
+
+HENRY LEE was born in Stratford, Westmoreland County, Virginia,
+January 29, 1756. He was graduated at Princeton College, New Jersey,
+in 1773; was appointed captain in 1777, and major in 1778. He
+surprised Paulus Hook, August 19, 1779, and received for the
+"prudence, address, and bravery" displayed by him on that occasion the
+thanks of Congress and a gold medal; he became lieutenant-colonel,
+November 6, 1780, and joined the southern army under General Greene,
+greatly distinguished himself in various engagements, and resigned in
+1782. In 1786 he was chosen one of the delegates to Congress from
+Virginia; was governor of that State, 1791-1794; member of Congress,
+1799; and on the death of Washington was selected to pronounce his
+eulogium, in which he embodied the memorable words: "First in war,
+first in peace, first in the hearts of his countrymen." He wrote, in
+1809, "Memoirs of the War in the Southern Department of the United
+States." He died on Cumberland Island, Georgia, March 25, 1818. He was
+known during the Revolutionary War by the sobriquet of "Light Horse
+Harry."
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolutions of Congress Voting a Medal to Major Henry Lee, etc._
+
+BY THE UNITED STATES IN CONGRESS ASSEMBLED.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the thanks of Congress be given to His
+ Excellency General Washington, for ordering with so much wisdom
+ the late attack on the enemy's fort and works at Powles Hook.[38]
+
+ [Footnote 38: Properly Paulus Hook (Hoeck), now
+ Jersey City. It derived its name from Michael
+ Paulusen, who was commissary there in 1633.]
+
+ _Resolved_, That the thanks of Congress be given to (p. 031)
+ Major-General Lord Stirling for the judicious measures taken by
+ him to forward the enterprize and to secure the retreat of the
+ party.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the thanks of Congress be given to Major Lee for
+ the remarkable prudence, address and bravery displayed by him on
+ the occasion; and that they approve the humanity shown in
+ circumstances prompting to severity, as honourable to the arms of
+ the United States, and correspondent to the noble principles on
+ which they were assumed.
+
+ _Resolved_, That Congress entertain a high sense of the
+ discipline, fortitude, and spirit manifested by the officers and
+ soldiers under the command of Major Lee in the march, action and
+ retreat; and while with singular satisfaction they acknowledge
+ the merit of these gallant men, they feel an additional pleasure
+ by considering them as part of an army, in which very many brave
+ officers and soldiers have proved, by their cheerful performance
+ of every duty under every difficulty, that they ardently wish to
+ give the truly glorious examples they now receive.
+
+ _Resolved_, That Congress justly esteem the military caution so
+ happily combined with daring activity by Lieutenants McAllister
+ and Rudolph in leading on the forlorn hope.
+
+ _Resolved_, That a medal of gold, emblematical of this affair, be
+ struck, under the direction of the Board of Treasury, and
+ presented to Major Lee.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the brevet, and the pay and subsistence of
+ captain, be given to Lieutenant McAllister and to Lieutenant
+ Rudolph respectively.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the sum of 15,000 dollars be put into the hands
+ of Major Lee, to be by him distributed among the non-commissioned
+ officers and soldiers of the detachment he commanded at the
+ attack and surprize of Powles Hook, in such manner as the
+ commander-in-chief shall direct.
+
+ Friday, September 24, 1779.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Washington to the President of Congress._
+
+ To Head Quarters, West Point,
+ THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. August 23, 1779.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour to enclose to Your Excellency Major Lee's
+ report of the surprize and capture of the garrison of Powles
+ Hook. The Major displayed a remarkable degree of prudence,
+ address, enterprize and bravery, upon this occasion, which does
+ the highest honour to himself and to all the officers and men
+ under his command. The situation of the post rendered the attempt
+ critical and the success brilliant. It was made in consequence of
+ information that the garrison was in a state of negligent
+ security, which the event has justified. I am much indebted to
+ Lord Stirling for the judicious measures he took to forward the
+ enterprize, and to secure the retreat of the party. Lieutenant
+ McAllister, who will have the honour of delivering these (p. 032)
+ despatches, will present Congress with the standard of the
+ garrison, which fell into his possession during the attack. Major
+ Lee speaks of this gentleman's conduct in the handsomest terms.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Geo. WASHINGTON.
+
+ P.S. The report not having been received till this day, prevented
+ a speedier transmission. Major Lee mentions twenty men lost on
+ our side. Captain Rudolph informs me that, since the report was
+ concluded, several of the missing had returned, which will lessen
+ the supposed loss near one half.
+
+ _____
+
+_Major Henry Lee to General Washington._
+
+ To His Excellency Paramus, August 22, 1779.
+ General WASHINGTON.
+
+ Sir: Lord Stirling was pleased to communicate to Your Excellency
+ my verbal report to his Lordship of the 19th instant. I now do
+ myself the honour to present a particular relation of the
+ enterprize Your Excellency was pleased to commit to my direction.
+
+ I took command of the troops employed on this occasion on the
+ 18th. They amounted to four hundred infantry, composed of
+ detachments from the Virginia and Maryland divisions, and one
+ troop of dismounted dragoons.
+
+ The troops moved from the vicinity of the New Bridge about four
+ o'clock P.M. Patrols of horse being detached to watch the
+ communication with the North River, and parties of infantry
+ stationed at the different avenues leading to Powles Hook. My
+ anxiety to render the march as easy as possible, induced me to
+ pursue the Bergen road lower than intended. After filing into the
+ mountains, the timidity or treachery of the principal guide
+ prolonged a short march into a march of three hours; by this
+ means the troops were exceedingly harassed, and being obliged,
+ through deep mountainous woods, to regain our route, some parties
+ of the rear were unfortunately separated. This affected me most
+ sensibly, as it not only diminished the number of men destined
+ for the assault, but deprived me of the aid of several officers
+ of distinguished merit.
+
+ On reaching the point of separation, I found my first disposition
+ impracticable, both from the near approach of day and the rising
+ of the tide. Not a moment being to spare, I paid no attention to
+ the punctilios of honour or rank, but ordered the troops to
+ advance in their then disposition. Lieutenant Rudolph, whom I had
+ previously detached to reconnoitre the passages of the canal,
+ returned to me at this point of time and reported that all was
+ silence within the works, that he had fathomed the canal and
+ found the passage on the centre route still admissible. This
+ intervening intelligence was immediately communicated from front
+ to rear, and the troops pushed on with that resolution, order,
+ and coolness which insures success.
+
+ The forlorn hopes, led by Lieutenant McAllister, of the (p. 033)
+ Maryland, and Lieutenant Rudolph, of the dragoons, marched on
+ with trailed arms, in most profound silence. Such was the
+ singular address of these two gentlemen, that the first notice to
+ the garrison was the forlorns plunging into the canal. A firing
+ immediately commenced from the block-houses and along the line of
+ the abatis, but did not in the least check the advance of the
+ troops. The forlorns, supported by Major Clarke, at the head of
+ the right column, broke through all opposition, and found an
+ entrance into the main work. So rapid was the movement of the
+ troops, that we gained the fort before the discharge of a single
+ piece of artillery. The centre column, conducted by Captain
+ Forsyth, on passing the abatis, took a direction to their left.
+ Lieutenant Armstrong led on the advance of this column. They soon
+ possessed themselves of the officers and troops posted at the
+ house No. 6, and fully completed every object of their
+ destination. The rear column, under Captain Handy, moved forward
+ in support of the whole. Thus were we completely victorious in
+ the space of a few moments.
+
+ The appearance of daylight, my apprehension lest some accident
+ might have befallen the boats, the numerous difficulties of the
+ retreat, the harassed state of the troops, and the destruction of
+ all our ammunition by passing the canal, conspired in influencing
+ me to retire in the moment of victory. Major Clarke, with the
+ right column, was immediately put in motion with the greater part
+ of the prisoners. Captain Handy followed on with the remainder.
+ Lieutenants Armstrong and Reed formed the rear guard.
+
+ Immediately on the commencement of the retreat, I sent forward
+ Captain Forsyth to Prior's Mill to collect such men from the
+ different columns as were most fit for action, and to take post
+ on the heights of Bergen to cover the retreat.
+
+ On my reaching this place I was informed by Cornet Neill (who had
+ been posted there during the night for the purpose of laying the
+ bridge and communicating with the boats), that my messenger,
+ directed to him previous to the attack, had not arrived, nor had
+ he heard from Captain Peyton, who had charge of the boats.
+
+ Struck with apprehension that I should be disappointed in the
+ route of retreat, I rode forward to the front, under Major
+ Clarke, whom I found very near the point of embarkation, and no
+ boats to receive them. In this very critical situation I lost no
+ time in my decision, but ordered the troops to regain Bergen road
+ and shove on to the New Bridge; at the same time I communicated
+ my disappointment to Lord Stirling by express, then returned to
+ Prior's Bridge to the rear-guard.
+
+ Oppressed by every possible misfortune, at the head of troops
+ worn down by a rapid march of thirty miles, through mountains,
+ swamps, and deep morasses, without the least refreshment during
+ the whole march, ammunition destroyed, incumbered with prisoners,
+ and a retreat of fourteen miles to make good, on a route
+ admissible of interception at several points, by a moving in our
+ rear, and another (from the intelligence I had received from the
+ captured officers) in all probability well advanced on our right;
+ a retreat naturally impossible to our left; under all these
+ distressing circumstances, my sole dependence was in the
+ persevering gallantry of the officers and obstinate courage of
+ the troops. In this I was fully satisfied by the shouts of the
+ soldiery, who gave every proof of unimpaired vigour the moment
+ that the enemy's approach was announced.
+
+ Having gained the point of intersection opposite Weehawken, (p. 034)
+ Captain Handy was directed to move with his division on the
+ mountain road, in order to facilitate the retreat. Captain
+ Catlett, of the Virginia regiment, fortunately joined me at this
+ moment, at the head of fifty men, with good ammunition. I
+ immediately halted this officer, and having detached two parties,
+ the one on the Bergen road in the rear of Major Clarke, the other
+ on the banks of the North River, I moved with the party under the
+ command of the captain on the centre route. By these precautions
+ a sudden approach of the enemy was fully prevented. I am very
+ much indebted to this officer, and the gentlemen under him, for
+ their alacrity and vigilance on this occasion.
+
+ On the rear's approach to the Fort Lee road, we met a detachment
+ under the command of Colonel Ball, which Lord Stirling had pushed
+ forward, on the first notice of our situation, to support the
+ retreat. The colonel moved on, and occupied a position which
+ effectually covered us.
+
+ Some little time after this, a body of the enemy (alluded to in
+ the intelligence I mentioned to have received from the officers
+ while in the fort) made their appearance, issuing out of the
+ woods on our right, and moving through the fields directly to the
+ road. They immediately commenced a fire upon my rear. Lieutenant
+ Reed threw himself, with a party, into a stone house which
+ commanded the road. These two officers were directed mutually to
+ support each other, and give time for the troops to pass the
+ English Neighbourhood Creek, at the liberty pole. On the enemy's
+ observing this disposition, they immediately retired by the same
+ route they had approached, and gained the woods. The
+ precipitation with which they retired, preventing the possibility
+ of Colonel Ball's falling in with them, saved the whole.
+
+ The body which moved in our rear, having excessively fatigued
+ themselves by the rapidity of their march, thought prudent to
+ halt before they came in contact with us.
+
+ Thus, Sir, was every attempt to cut off our rear completely
+ baffled. The troops arrived safe at the New Bridge, with all the
+ prisoners, about one o'clock P.M. on the nineteenth.
+
+ I should commit the highest injustice was I not to assure Your
+ Excellency that my endeavours were fully seconded by every
+ officer in his station; nor can any discrimination justly be made
+ but what arose from opportunity. The troops vied with each other
+ in patience under their many sufferings, and conducted themselves
+ in every vicissitude of fortune with a resolution which reflects
+ the highest honour on them.
+
+ During the whole action not a single musket was fired on our
+ side--the bayonet was our sole dependence.
+
+ Having gained the fort, such was the order of the troops, and
+ attention of the officers, that the soldiers were prevented from
+ plundering, although in the midst of every sort.
+
+ American humanity has been again signally manifested.
+ Self-preservation strongly dictated, on the retreat, the putting
+ the prisoners to death, and British cruelty fully justified it,
+ notwithstanding which, not a man was wantonly hurt.
+
+ During the progress of the troops in the works, from the
+ different reports of my officers, I conclude not more than fifty
+ of the enemy were killed, and a few wounded. Among the killed is
+ one officer, supposed (from his description) to be a captain in
+ Colonel Buskirk's regiment. Our loss, on this occasion, is very
+ trifling. I have not yet had a report from the detachment of (p. 035)
+ the Virginians; but as I conclude their loss to be proportionate
+ to the loss of the other troops, I can venture to pronounce
+ that the loss of the whole, in killed, wounded, and missing,
+ will not exceed twenty. As soon as the report comes to hand,
+ I will transmit to headquarters an accurate return. I herewith
+ enclose a return of the prisoners taken from the enemy.
+
+ At every point of the enterprize I stood highly indebted to Major
+ Clarke for his zeal, activity, and example. Captains Handy and
+ Forsyth have claim to my particular thanks for the support I
+ experienced from them on every occasion. The Captains Reed,
+ McLane, Smith, Crump, and Wilmot, behaved with the greatest zeal
+ and intrepidity. I must acknowledge myself very much indebted to
+ Major Burnet and Captain Peyton, of the dragoons, for their
+ counsel and indefatigability in the previous preparations to the
+ attack. The premature withdrawal of the boats was owing to the
+ non-arrival of my despatches; and, though a most mortifying
+ circumstance, can be called nothing more than unfortunate.
+ Lieutenant Vanderville, who was to have commanded one of the
+ forlorns, but was thrown out by alteration of the disposition of
+ battle, conducted himself perfectly soldier-like. The whole of
+ the officers behaved with the greatest propriety; and, as I said
+ before, no discrimination can justly be made, but what arose from
+ opportunity.
+
+ The Lieutenants McAllister, Armstrong, Reed, and Rudolph
+ distinguished themselves remarkably. Too much praise cannot be
+ given to those gentlemen for their prowess and example. Captain
+ Bradford, of the train, who volunteered it with me, for the
+ purpose of taking direction of the artillery, deserves my warmest
+ thanks for his zeal and activity. I am personally indebted to
+ Captain Rudolph and Dr. Irvine, of the dragoons, who attended me
+ during the expedition, for their many services.
+
+ I beg leave to present Your Excellency with the flag of the fort
+ by the hands of Mr. McAllister, the gentleman into whose
+ possession it fell.
+
+ It is needless for me to explain my reasons for the instantaneous
+ evacuation of the fort. Your Excellency's knowledge of the post
+ will suggest fully the propriety of it. The event confirms it.
+
+ Among the many unfortunate circumstances which crossed our
+ wishes, none was more so than the accidental absence of Colonel
+ Buskirk and the greatest part of his regiment. They had set out
+ on an expedition up the North River the very night of the attack.
+ A company of vigilant Hessians had taken their place in the fort,
+ which rendered the secrecy of approach more precarious, and, at
+ the same time, diminished the object of the enterprize by a
+ reduction of the number of the garrison. Major Sutherland
+ fortunately saved himself by a soldier counterfeiting his person.
+ This imposition was not discovered until too late.
+
+ I intended to have burned the barracks, but on finding a number
+ of sick soldiers and women with young children in them, humanity
+ forbade the execution of my intention. The key of the magazine
+ could not be found, nor could it be broken open in the little
+ time we had to spare, many attempts having been made to that
+ purpose by the Lieutenants McAllister and Reed. It was completely
+ impracticable to bring off any pieces of artillery. I consulted
+ Captain Bradford on the point, who confirmed me in my opinion.
+ The circumstance of spiking them being trivial it was omitted
+ altogether.
+
+ After most of the troops had retired from the works, and were (p. 036)
+ passed and passing the canal, a fire of musketry commenced
+ from a few stragglers, who had collected in an old work, on the
+ right of the main fort. Their fire being ineffectual, and the
+ object trifling, I determined not to break in upon the order of
+ retreat, but continued passing the defile in front. I cannot
+ conclude this relation without expressing my wannest thanks to
+ Lord Stirling, for the full patronage I received from him in
+ every stage of the enterprize. I must also return my thanks to
+ the cavalry, for their vigilant execution of the duties assigned
+ them.
+
+ Captain Rudolph waits on Your Excellency with these despatches. I
+ beg leave to refer to this officer for any further explanation
+ that may be required.
+
+ I have the honour to be, Sir, with the most perfect respect,
+ Your Excellency's most obedient and humble servant,
+ Henry LEE, Jr.
+
+
+
+No. 7. (p. 037)
+PLATE VII.
+
+
+_September 23, 1780._
+
+ Fidelity. [Rx]. Vincit amor patriae.
+
+JOHN PAULDING, DAVID WILLIAMS, ISAAC VAN WART.
+
+[_Capture of Major Andre._]
+
+FIDELITY. Field embossed in and wreathed with two branches, one of
+laurel, the other of palm, united by a ribbon.
+
+VINCIT AMOR PATRIAE. (_Love of country conquers._) A vacant space, to
+receive the name of the recipient, between two branches of
+fleur-de-lis, united by a ribbon.[39]
+
+ [Footnote 39: See INTRODUCTION, page xxxv.]
+
+This is not properly a medal, but a _repousse_, made by a silversmith.
+
+
+JOHN PAULDING was born in New York in 1759; and died in Westchester
+County, New York, February 18, 1848.
+
+
+DAVID WILLIAMS was born in Tarrytown, October 21, 1754, and died in
+Broome, Schoharie County, New York, August 2, 1831.
+
+
+ISAAC VAN WART was born in New York in 1750, and died in Westchester
+County, New York, May 23, 1818.
+
+
+These three militiamen captured Major Andre, of the British Army,
+September 23, 1780, and refusing his large offers of money, delivered
+him up to the American commanding officer of the district. Thus the
+treasonable intentions of General Arnold to surrender West Point to
+the enemy were frustrated. For this great service to their country
+they each received the thanks of Congress and a silver medal.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 038)
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to John Paulding, David
+Williams, and Isaac Van Wart._
+
+BY THE UNITED STATES IN CONGRESS ASSEMBLED.
+
+ _Whereas_, Congress have received information that John Paulding,
+ David Williams, and Isaac Van Wart, three young volunteer
+ militiamen of the State of New York, did, on the 23d day of
+ September last, intercept Major John Andre, adjutant-general of
+ the British army, on his return from the American lines, in the
+ character of a spy; and, notwithstanding the large bribes offered
+ them for his release, nobly disdaining to sacrifice their country
+ for the sake of gold, secured and conveyed him to the commanding
+ officer of the district, whereby the dangerous and traitorous
+ conspiracy of Benedict Arnold was brought to light, the insidious
+ designs of the enemy baffled, and the United States rescued from
+ impending danger:
+
+ _Resolved_, That Congress have a high sense of the virtuous and
+ patriotic conduct of the said John Paulding, David Williams, and
+ Isaac Van Wart. In testimony whereof,
+
+ _Ordered_, That each of them receive annually, out of the public
+ treasury, 200 dollars in specie, or an equivalent in the current
+ money of these States, during life; and that the Board of War
+ procure for each of them a silver medal, on one side of which
+ shall be a shield with this inscription: "Fidelity," and on the
+ other the following motto: "Vincit amor patriae," and forward them
+ to the commander-in-chief, who is requested to present the same,
+ with a copy of this resolution, and the thanks of Congress for
+ their fidelity, and the eminent service they have rendered their
+ country.
+
+ Friday, November 3, 1780.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Washington to the President of Congress._
+
+ To Robinson House, In The Highlands,
+ THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. September 26, 1780.
+
+ Sir:
+ - - - - -
+
+ In the mean time, a packet had arrived from Lieutenant-Colonel
+ Jameson, announcing the capture of a John Anderson, who was
+ endeavouring to go to New York with several interesting and
+ important papers, all in the handwriting of General Arnold. This
+ was also accompanied with a letter from the prisoner, avowing
+ himself to be Major John Andre, adjutant-general of the British
+ army, relating the manner of his capture, and endeavouring to
+ show that he did not come under the description of a spy. From
+ the several circumstances, and information that the general
+ (Arnold) seemed to be thrown into some degree of agitation on
+ receiving a letter, a little time before he went down from (p. 039)
+ his quarters, I was led to conclude immediately, that he had
+ heard of Major Andre's captivity, and that he would, if possible,
+ escape to the enemy; and I accordingly took such measures as
+ appeared the most probable, to apprehend him. But he had embarked
+ in a barge, and proceeded down the river under a flag to the
+ Vulture sloop-of-war, which lay some miles below Stony and
+ Verplanck's Points. After he got on board, he wrote to me a
+ letter, of which the enclosed is a copy.
+
+ Major Andre is not arrived yet, but I hope he is secure, and that
+ he will be here to-day. I have been and am taking proper
+ precautions, which I trust will prove effectual, to prevent the
+ important consequences which this conduct on the part of General
+ Arnold was intended to produce. I do not know the party that took
+ Major Andre, but it is said to have consisted only of militia,
+ who acted in such a manner as does them the highest honour, and
+ proves them to be men of great virtue. They were offered, I am
+ informed, a large sum of money for his release, and as many goods
+ as they would demand, but without any effect. Their conduct gives
+ them a just claim to the thanks of their country, and I also hope
+ they will be otherwise rewarded. As soon as I know their names, I
+ shall take pleasure in transmitting them to Congress.
+
+ - - - - -
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Geo. WASHINGTON.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Washington to the President of Congress._
+
+ To
+ THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Paramus, October 7, 1780.
+
+ Sir:
+ - - - - -
+
+ I have now the pleasure to communicate the names of the three
+ persons who captured Major Andre, and who refused to release him,
+ notwithstanding the most earnest importunities and assurances of
+ a liberal reward on his part. Their conduct merits our wannest
+ esteem; and I beg leave to add, that I think the public will do
+ well to make them a handsome gratuity. They have prevented in all
+ probability our suffering one of the severest strokes that could
+ have been meditated against us. Their names are John Paulding,
+ David Williams, and Isaac Van Wart.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Geo. WASHINGTON.
+
+
+
+No. 8. (p. 040)
+PLATE VIII.
+
+
+_January 17, 1781._
+
+ Danieli Morgan duci exercitus Comitia Americana. [Rx]. Victoria
+ libertatis vindex.
+
+BRIGADIER-GENERAL DANIEL MORGAN.
+
+[_Victory of the Cowpens._]
+
+DANIELI MORGAN DUCI EXERCITUS COMITIA AMERICANA. (_The American
+Congress to General Daniel Morgan._) America, personified as an Indian
+queen, standing, places with her right hand a crown of laurel upon the
+head of General Morgan, while her left rests on a bow. To the left are
+seen trophies of the enemy's arms; against a cannon is the American
+shield, upon which lies a branch of laurel; to the right is a forest.
+DUPRE, F. (_fecit_).
+
+VICTORIA LIBERTATIS VINDEX. (_Victory, the vindicator of liberty._)
+General Morgan is leading his troops, who advance with colors flying,
+and put to flight the British army; in the foreground, a combat
+between an Indian and a dismounted cavalry soldier. Exergue: FVGATIS
+CAPTIS AVT CAESIS AD COWPENS HOSTIBVS XVII. JAN. MDCCLXXXI. (_Fugatis
+captis aut caesis ad Cowpens hostibus, 17 Januarii, 1781: The enemy put
+to flight, taken, or slain at the Cowpens, January 17, 1781._) DUPRE
+INV ET F. (_Dupre invenit et fecit_).[40]
+
+ [Footnote 40: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xi, xii,
+ xiii, xvii, xx, xxi, xxii, xxxv; B, xxxvi; D, xli;
+ E, xliv; and F, xlv.]
+
+The legend of the exergue of this medal, as originally proposed by the
+French Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres, was CAESIS AUT
+CAPTIS AD COWPENS HOSTIUM * * SIGNIS RELATIS * * 17 JAN. 1781. The
+change was made at the suggestion of Jefferson.
+
+
+AUGUSTIN DUPRE was born in St. Etienne, France, October, 1748. (p. 041)
+He began life as a workman in a manufactory of arms. In 1768 he
+went to Paris as apprentice to an engraver, and became one of the most
+distinguished medal engravers of the latter part of the 18th century.
+Among his works are the celebrated five franc piece known as "a
+l'Hercule," the five centime and one decime pieces, on which the head
+of Liberty is the profile of Madame Recamier, and seven medals
+relating to America: John Paul Jones, General Morgan, General Greene,
+Libertas Americana, the Diplomatic medal, and two of Franklin. Dupre
+was engraver-general of the Paris Mint from July, 1791, to 1801, when
+he was dismissed by General Bonaparte, then first consul. He died at
+Armentieres, January 31, 1833.
+
+
+DANIEL MORGAN was born in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, in 1736. In
+early life he served as a teamster in General Braddock's army, and
+afterward settled in Frederick (now Clarke) County, Virginia. In 1775
+he was captain of a rifle company, and served under Washington. He
+accompanied General Arnold to Canada, and was made prisoner at Quebec;
+he served again under Washington, as colonel of a rifle regiment, in
+1776, and greatly distinguished himself under General Gates at
+Saratoga. He was brigadier-general in 1780, served in the South under
+Generals Gates and Greene, and won the brilliant victory of the
+Cowpens, January 17, 1781, for which Congress gave him a vote of
+thanks and a gold medal. Soon afterward he resigned from ill health,
+and retired to his plantation. He was a member of Congress from 1795
+to 1799. In 1780 he removed to Winchester, Virginia, where he died
+July 6, 1802.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to General Morgan and to
+Lieutenant-Colonels Washington and Howard, etc._
+
+BY THE UNITED STATES IN CONGRESS ASSEMBLED.
+
+ Considering it as a tribute due to distinguished merit to give a
+ public approbation of the conduct of Brigadier-General Morgan,
+ and of the officers and men under his command, on the 17th day of
+ January last, when with 80 cavalry and 237 infantry of the troops
+ of the United States, and 553 militia from the States of
+ Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, he (p. 042)
+ obtained a complete and important victory over a select and
+ well appointed detachment of more than 1,100 British troops
+ commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton; do therefore
+ _resolve_:--
+
+ That the thanks of the United States in Congress assembled be
+ given to Brigadier-General Morgan, and the officers and men under
+ his command, for their fortitude and good conduct displayed in
+ the action at the Cowpens, in the State of South Carolina, on the
+ 17th day of January last:
+
+ That a medal of gold be presented to Brigadier-General Morgan,
+ and a medal of silver to Lieutenant-Colonel Washington (William),
+ of the cavalry, and one of silver to Lieutenant-Colonel Howard,
+ of the infantry of the United States; severally with emblems and
+ mottoes descriptive of the conduct of those officers respectively
+ on that memorable day:
+
+ That a sword be presented to Colonel Pickens, of the militia, in
+ testimony of his spirited conduct in the action before mentioned:
+
+ That Captain Edward Giles, aid-de-camp of Brigadier-General
+ Morgan, have the brevet commission of major; and that Baron de
+ Glasbuch, who served with Brigadier-General Morgan as a
+ volunteer, have the brevet commission of captain in the army of
+ the United States; in consideration of their merit and services.
+
+ _Ordered_, That the commanding officer in the southern department
+ communicate these resolutions in general orders.
+
+ Friday, March 9, 1781.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Morgan to General Greene._
+
+ To Camp, near Cain Creek,
+ General GREENE. January 19, 1781.
+
+ Sir: The troops I have the honour to command have been so
+ fortunate as to obtain a complete victory over a detachment from
+ the British army, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton. The
+ action happened on the 17th instant, about sunrise, at the
+ Cowpens. It perhaps would be well to remark, for the honour of
+ the American arms, that although the progress of this corps was
+ marked with burning and devastation, and although they waged the
+ most cruel warfare, not a man was killed, wounded, or even
+ insulted, after he surrendered. Had not the Britons during this
+ contest received so many lessons of humanity, I should natter
+ myself that this might teach them a little. But I fear they are
+ incorrigible.
+
+ To give you a just idea of our operation, it will be necessary to
+ inform you, that on the 14th instant, having received certain
+ intelligence that Lord Cornwallis and Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton
+ were both in motion, and that their movements clearly indicated
+ their intentions of dislodging me, I abandoned my encampment on
+ Grindall's Ford on the Pacolet, and on the 16th, in the evening,
+ took possession of a post, about seven miles from the Cherokee
+ Ford, on Broad river. My former position subjected me at once (p. 043)
+ to the operations of Cornwallis and Tarleton, and in case of a
+ defeat, my retreat might have easily been cut off. My situation
+ at the Cowpens enabled me to improve any advantages I might gain,
+ and to provide better for my own security should I be unfortunate.
+ These reasons induced me to take this post, at the risk of its
+ wearing the face of a retreat.
+
+ I received regular intelligence of the enemy's movements from the
+ time they were first in motion. On the evening of the 16th
+ instant they took possession of the ground I had removed from in
+ the morning, distant from the scene of action about twelve miles.
+ An hour before daylight, one of my scouts returned and informed
+ me that Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton had advanced within five
+ miles of our camp. On this information, I hastened to form as
+ good a disposition as circumstances would admit, and from the
+ alacrity of the troops, we were soon prepared to receive them.
+ The light infantry, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Howard, and
+ the Virginia Militia, under the command of Major Triplett, were
+ formed on a rising ground, and extended a line in front. The
+ third regiment of dragoons, under Lieutenant-Colonel Washington,
+ were posted at such a distance in their rear as not to be
+ subjected to the line of fire directed at them, and to be so near
+ as to be able to charge the enemy should they be broken. The
+ volunteers of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, under
+ the command of the brave and valuable Colonel Pickens, were
+ situated to guard the flanks. Major McDowell, of the North
+ Carolina Volunteers, was posted on the right flank in front of
+ the line, one hundred and fifty yards; and Major Cunningham, of
+ the Georgia Volunteers, on the left, at the same distance in
+ front. Colonels Brannon and Thomas, of the South Carolinians,
+ were posted on the right of Major McDowell, and Colonels Hays and
+ McCall, of the same corps, on the left of Major Cunningham.
+ Captains Tate and Buchanan, with the Augusta Riflemen, to support
+ the right of the line.
+
+ The enemy drew up in single line of battle, four hundred yards in
+ front of our advanced corps. The first battalion of the 71st
+ regiment was opposed to our right, the 7th regiment to our left,
+ the infantry of the legion to our centre, the light companies on
+ their flank. In front moved two pieces of artillery.
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton, with his cavalry, was posted in the
+ rear of his line.
+
+ The disposition of battle being thus formed, small parties of
+ riflemen were detached to skirmish with the enemy, upon which
+ their whole line moved on with the greatest impetuosity, shouting
+ as they advanced. McDowell and Cunningham gave them a heavy and
+ galling fire, and retreated to the regiments intended for their
+ support. The whole of Colonel Pickens' command then kept up a
+ fire by regiments, retreating agreeably to their orders. When the
+ enemy advanced to our line, they received a well-directed and
+ incessant fire; but their numbers being superior to ours, they
+ gained our flanks, which obliged us to change our position. We
+ retired in good order about fifty paces, formed, advanced on the
+ enemy, and gave them a fortunate volley, which threw them into
+ disorder. Lieutenant-Colonel Howard, observing this, gave orders
+ for the line to charge bayonets, which was done with such address
+ that they fled with the utmost precipitation, leaving their field
+ pieces in our possession. We pushed our advantages so
+ effectually, that they never had an opportunity of rallying, had
+ their intentions been ever so good.
+
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Washington, having been informed that (p. 044)
+ Tarleton was cutting down our riflemen on the left, pushed
+ forward, and charged them with such firmness, that, instead of
+ attempting to recover the fate of the day, which one would have
+ expected from an officer of his splendid character, they broke
+ and fled.
+
+ The enemy's whole force were now bent solely in providing for
+ their safety in flight--the list of their killed, wounded, and
+ prisoners, will inform you with what effect Tarleton, with the
+ small remains of his cavalry, and a few scattering infantry he
+ had mounted on his waggon horses, made their escape. He was
+ pursued twenty-four miles, but owing to our having taken a wrong
+ trail at first, we never could overtake him.
+
+ As I was obliged to move off the field of action in the morning,
+ to secure the prisoners, I cannot be so accurate as to the killed
+ and wounded as I could wish. From the reports of an officer whom
+ I sent to view the ground, there were one hundred
+ non-commissioned officers and privates, and ten commissioned
+ officers, killed, and two hundred rank and file wounded. We have
+ now in our possession five hundred and two non-commissioned
+ officers and privates prisoners, independent of the wounded, and
+ the militia are taking up stragglers continually. Twenty-nine
+ commissioned officers have fallen into our hands. Their rank you
+ will see by an enclosed list. The officers I have paroled, the
+ privates I am conveying by the safest route to Salisbury.
+
+ Two standards, two field pieces, thirty-five waggons, a
+ travelling forge, and all their music are ours. Their baggage,
+ which was immense, they have in a great measure destroyed.
+
+ Our loss is inconsiderable, which the enclosed return will
+ evince. I have not been able to ascertain Colonel Pickens' loss,
+ but know it to be very small.
+
+ From our force being composed of such a variety of corps, a wrong
+ judgment may be formed of our numbers. We fought only eight
+ hundred men, two-thirds of which were militia. The British, with
+ their baggage guard, were not less than one thousand one hundred
+ and fifty, and these veteran troops. Their own officers confess
+ that they fought one thousand and thirty-seven.
+
+ Such was the inferiority of our numbers, that our success must be
+ attributed to the justice of our cause and the bravery of our
+ troops. My wishes would induce me to mention the name of every
+ sentinel in the corps I have the honour to command. In justice to
+ the bravery and good conduct of the officers, I have taken the
+ liberty to enclose you a list of their names, from a conviction
+ that you will be pleased to introduce such characters to the
+ world.
+
+ Major Giles, my aid, and Captain Brookes, my brigade-major,
+ deserve and have my thanks for their assistance and behaviour on
+ this occasion.
+
+ The Baron de Glasbuch, who accompanies Major Giles with these
+ despatches, served with me in the action as a volunteer, and
+ behaved in such a manner as merits your attention.
+
+ I am, dear Sir, your obedient servant,
+ Daniel MORGAN.
+
+ P.S. Our loss was very inconsiderable, not having more than
+ twelve killed and about sixty wounded.
+
+ The enemy had ten commissioned officers and upwards of one (p. 045)
+ hundred rank and file killed, two hundred rank and file
+ wounded, and twenty-seven officers and more than five hundred
+ privates which fell into our hands, with two pieces of artillery,
+ two Standards, eight hundred stand of arms, one travelling forge,
+ thirty-five waggons, ten negroes, and upwards of one hundred
+ dragoon horses.
+
+ Although our success was complete, we fought only eight hundred
+ men, and were opposed by upwards of one thousand British troops.
+
+ _____
+
+ _Act of Congress directing a gold copy of General Morgan's medal
+ to be struck and presented to Morgan Neville, Esq., the lineal
+ heir of General Morgan._
+
+ _Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States in Congress assembled_, That, in pursuance of the
+ request of Morgan Neville, in his memorial presented at the
+ present session of Congress, the director of the mint be and he
+ is hereby authorized and directed to cause to be struck, a gold
+ medal, of the intrinsic value of one hundred and fifty dollars,
+ in honour of the battle of the Cowpens, which was fought on the
+ seventeenth day of January, seventeen hundred and eighty-one, to
+ replace the original medal presented by a resolution of the
+ Continental Congress, of March ninth, seventeen hundred and
+ eighty-one, to Brigadier-General Daniel Morgan; the said medal to
+ be struck from the original die, and delivered when executed to
+ the said Morgan Neville, the lineal heir of General Morgan; the
+ expense of the same to be paid out of any money in the treasury
+ not otherwise appropriated.
+
+ Approved July 2d, 1836.
+
+
+
+No. 9. (p. 046)
+PLATE IX.
+
+
+_January 17, 1781._
+
+ Gulielmo Washington legionis equit. praefecto Comitia American.
+ [Rx]. Quod parva militum manu, etc.
+
+LIEUTENANT-COLONEL WILLIAM AUGUSTINE WASHINGTON.
+
+[_Victory of the Cowpens._]
+
+GULIELMO WASHINGTON LEGIONIS EQUIT. (_equitum_) PRAEFECTO COMITIA
+AMERICAN. (_Americana._) (_The American Congress to William
+Washington, commander of a regiment of cavalry._) Lieutenant-Colonel
+Washington, at the head of his men, is pursuing the enemy's cavalry. A
+winged Victory hovers above him, holding in her right hand a crown of
+laurel, and in her left a palm branch. DUV. (_Duvivier_).
+
+Within a crown of laurel: QUOD PARVA MILITUM MANU STRENUE PROSECUTUS
+HOSTES VIRTUTIS INGENITAE PRAECLARUM SPECIMEN DEDIT IN PUGNA AD COWPENS
+XVII. JAN. (_Januarii_) MDCCLXXXI.(_Because in vigorously pursuing the
+enemy with a handful of soldiers he gave a noble example of innate
+courage at the battle of the Cowpens, January 17, 1781_).[41],[42]
+
+ [Footnote 41: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xi, xii,
+ xvii, xxiii, xxviii, xxxv; B, xxxvi; G, xlv; and H,
+ xlvii.]
+
+ [Footnote 42: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal, and the official report of the battle
+ of the Cowpens, are given under No. 8, page 40.]
+
+
+WILLIAM AUGUSTINE WASHINGTON, a distant relation of General
+Washington's, was born in Stafford County, Virginia, February 28,
+1752. He was educated for the church, but entered the army as captain
+of infantry, and fought in the battles of Long Island, Trenton, and
+Princeton. In 1778 he was lieutenant-colonel of dragoons, and served
+in the South under Generals Lincoln, Greene, and Morgan. He
+distinguished himself at the victory of the Cowpens, for which he (p. 047)
+received from Congress a silver medal; was made a prisoner at Eutaw
+Springs, and remained in captivity in Charleston, South Carolina, till
+the close of the war, when he settled in that city. He served for some
+time in the South Carolina Legislature; was appointed on General
+Washington's staff with the rank of brigadier-general, in 1797, and
+died in Charleston, March 6, 1810.
+
+
+
+No. 10. (p. 048)
+PLATE X.
+
+
+_January 17, 1781._
+
+ Joh. Egar Howard legionis peditum praefecto Comitia Americana.
+ [Rx]. Quod in nutantem hostium aciem, etc.
+
+LIEUTENANT-COLONEL JOHN EAGER HOWARD.
+
+[_Victory of the Cowpens._]
+
+JOH. (_Johanni_) EGAR. (_sic_) HOWARD LEGIONIS PEDITUM PRAEFECTO
+COMITIA AMERICANA. (_The American Congress to John Eager Howard,
+commander of a regiment of infantry._) Lieutenant-Colonel Howard, on
+horseback, is in pursuit of a foot-soldier of the enemy who is
+carrying away a standard. A winged Victory hovers over him, holding in
+her right hand a crown of laurel, and in her left a palm branch.
+DUVIV. (_Duvivier_).
+
+Within a crown of laurel: QUOD IN NUTANTEM HOSTIUM ACIEM SUBITO
+IRRUENS PRAECLARUM BELLICAE VIRTUTIS SPECIMEN DEDIT IN PUGNA AD COWPENS
+XVII. JAN. (_Januarii_) MDCCLXXXI. (_Because by rushing suddenly on
+the wavering lines of the enemy, he gave a brilliant example of
+martial courage at the battle of the Cowpens, January 17,
+1781_).[43],[44]
+
+ [Footnote 43: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xi, xii,
+ xvii, xxiii, xxviii, xxxv; B, xxxvi; G, xlv; and H,
+ xlvii.]
+
+ [Footnote 44: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal, and the official report of the battle
+ of the Cowpens, are given under No. 8, page 40.]
+
+
+JOHN EAGER HOWARD was born in Baltimore County, Maryland, June 4,
+1752. On the breaking out of the Revolution he was appointed captain,
+and took part in the battle of White Plains. He was promoted to the
+rank of major in 1777, and fought at Germantown and Monmouth. He
+became lieutenant-colonel of the 5th Maryland regiment of infantry in
+1779, and served in the South under Generals Gates, Greene, and
+Morgan, taking a brilliant part in every engagement. At the victory of
+the Cowpens he held in his hands at one time the swords of seven (p. 049)
+British officers who had surrendered to him. For his services in
+this battle Congress awarded him a silver medal. He was colonel of the
+2d Maryland regiment at Eutaw Springs. At the close of the war he
+retired to Baltimore, and was governor of Maryland, 1789-1792, and
+United States senator, 1796-1803 When a war with France was expected
+in 1797, he was selected by General Washington for one of his
+brigadier-generals. He organized the defence of Baltimore in 1814, and
+died in that city, October 12, 1827.
+
+
+
+No. 11. (p. 050)
+PLATE XI.
+
+
+_September 8, 1781._
+
+ Nathanieli Green egregio duci Comitia Americana. [Rx]. Salus
+ regionum australium.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL NATHANIEL GREENE.
+
+[_Victory of Eutaw Springs._]
+
+NATHANIELI GREEN (_sic_) EGREGIO DUCI COMITIA AMERICANA. (_The
+American Congress to Nathaniel Greene, a distinguished general._) Bust
+of General Greene, in uniform, facing the left.
+
+SALUS REGIONUM AUSTRALIUM. (_The safety of the southern regions._) A
+winged Victory holds a crown of laurel in her right hand, and a palm
+branch in her left; one foot is resting on a trophy of arms and flags
+of conquered enemies. Exergue: HOSTIBUS AD EUTAW DEBELLATIS DIE VIII
+SEPT (_Septembris_) MDCCLXXXI. (_The enemy vanquished at Eutaw on the
+8th of September, 1781._) DUPRE.[45]
+
+ [Footnote 45: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xi, xiii,
+ xvi, xvii, xviii, xxi, xxviii, xxxv; B, xxxvi; C,
+ xli; F, xlv; and H, xlvii.]
+
+The legend of the reverse of this medal, as originally proposed by the
+French Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres was, SALUS
+PROVINCIARUM AUSTRALIUM.
+
+
+NATHANIEL GREENE was born at Potowhommet, Warwick County, Rhode
+Island, May 27, 1742. He began life as a blacksmith, but entered the
+"Kentish Guards" as a private in 1774. He was made brigadier-general
+of the Rhode Island contingent to the army before Boston, in May, 1775,
+and a brigadier-general in the Continental Army, June 22, 1775, and
+remained in active service throughout the war. In 1776 he commanded in
+Long Island as a major-general; and fought at Trenton, Princeton, the
+Brandywine, Germantown, Monmouth, Newport, and Springfield. He was
+quartermaster-general from March 2, 1778, to August, 1780; and was
+commander of the army, in September, when Arnold's treason was
+discovered. The same year he was appointed commander-in-chief of (p. 051)
+the southern department, retook the two Carolinas and Georgia, and won
+the battle of Eutaw Springs, September 8, 1781, for which victory
+Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold medal. After the war he
+removed to a plantation, which the State of Georgia had given him, on
+the Savannah river, and died there of a sunstroke, June 19, 1786.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolutions of Congress Voting a Medal to General Greene, etc._
+
+BY THE UNITED STATES IN CONGRESS ASSEMBLED.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the thanks of the United States in Congress
+ assembled, be presented to Major-General Greene for his wise,
+ decisive, and magnanimous conduct in the action of the 8th of
+ September last, near the Eutaw Springs, in South Carolina, in
+ which, with a force inferior in number to that of the enemy, he
+ obtained a most signal victory.
+
+ That the thanks of the United States in Congress assembled, be
+ presented to the officers and men of the Maryland and Virginia
+ brigades, and Delaware battalion of continental troops, for the
+ unparalleled bravery and heroism by them displayed, in advancing
+ to the enemy through an incessant fire, and charging them with an
+ impetuosity and ardour that could not be resisted.
+
+ That the thanks of the United States in Congress assembled, be
+ presented to the officers and men of the legionary corps and
+ artillery, for their intrepid and gallant exertions during the
+ action.
+
+ That the thanks of the United States in Congress assembled, be
+ presented to the brigade of North Carolina for their resolution
+ and perseverance in attacking the enemy, and sustaining a
+ superior fire.
+
+ That the thanks of the United States in Congress assembled, be
+ presented to the officers and men of the state corps of South
+ Carolina, for the zeal, activity, and firmness by them exhibited
+ throughout the engagement.
+
+ That the thanks of the United States in Congress assembled, be
+ presented to the officers and men of the militia, who formed the
+ front line in the order of battle, and sustained their post with
+ honour, propriety, and resolution, worthy of men determined to be
+ free.
+
+ _Resolved_, That a British standard be presented to
+ Major-General Greene as an honourable testimony of his merit, and
+ a golden medal emblematical of the battle and victory aforesaid.
+
+ That Major-General Greene be desired to present the thanks of (p. 052)
+ Congress to Captains Pierce and Pendleton, Major Hyrne and Captain
+ Shubrick, his aids-de-camp in testimony of their particular
+ activity and good conduct during the whole of the action.
+
+ That a sword be presented to Captain Pierce, who bore the
+ general's despatches giving an account of the victory, and that
+ the Board of War take order herein.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the thanks of the United States in Congress
+ assembled, be presented to Brigadier-General Marion, of the South
+ Carolina militia, for his wise, gallant, and decided conduct in
+ defending the liberties of his country; and particularly for his
+ prudent and intrepid attack on a body of the British troops, on
+ the 30th day of August last, and for the distinguished part he
+ took in the battle of the 8th of September.
+
+ Monday, October 29, 1781.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Greene to the President of Congress._
+
+ Headquarters, Martin's Tavern, near Ferguson's Swamp,
+ To His Excellency South Carolina, September 11, 1781.
+ THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.
+
+ Sir: In my last despatch of the 25th of August, I informed Your
+ Excellency that we were on our march for Fryday's Ferry, to form
+ a junction with the State troops and a body of militia,
+ collecting at that place, with an intention to make an attack
+ upon the British army laying at Colonel Thompson's, near McCord's
+ Ferry. On the 27th, on our arrival near Fryday's Ferry, I got
+ intelligence that the enemy were retiring.
+
+ We crossed the river at Howell's Ferry, and took post at Motte's
+ plantation. Here I got intelligence that the enemy had halted at
+ the Eutaw Springs, about forty miles below us; and that they had
+ a reinforcement, and were making preparations to establish a
+ permanent post there. To prevent this, I was determined rather to
+ hazard an action, notwithstanding our numbers were greatly
+ inferior to theirs. On the 5th we began our march, our baggage
+ and stores having been ordered to Howell's Ferry under a proper
+ guard. We moved by slow and easy marches, as well to disguise our
+ real intention, as to give General Marion an opportunity to join
+ us, who had been detached for the support of Colonel Harden, a
+ report of which I transmitted in my letter of the 5th, dated
+ Maybrick's Creek. General Marion joined us on the evening of the
+ 7th, at Burdell's plantation, seven miles from the enemy's camp.
+
+ We made the following disposition, and marched at four o'clock
+ the next morning to attack the enemy. Our front line was composed
+ of four small battalions of militia, two of North and two of
+ South Carolinians; one of the South Carolinians was under the
+ immediate command of General Marion, and was posted on the right,
+ who also commanded the front line; the two North Carolina
+ battalions, wider the command of Colonel Malmady, were posted in
+ the centre; and the other South Carolina battalion under the (p. 053)
+ command of General Pickens, was posted on the left. Our second
+ line consisted of three small brigades of continental
+ troops--one from North Carolina, one from Virginia, and one from
+ Maryland. The North Carolinians were formed into three
+ battalions, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Ash, Majors
+ Armstrong and Blount; the whole commanded by General Sumner, and
+ posted upon the right. The Virginians consisted of two
+ battalions, commanded by Major Snead and Captain Edmonds, and the
+ whole by Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell, and posted in the centre.
+ The Marylanders also consisted of two battalions, commanded by
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Howard and Major Hardman, and the brigade by
+ Colonel Williams, deputy adjutant-general to the army, and were
+ posted upon the left. Lieutenant-Colonel Lee with his legion
+ covered our right flank; and Lieutenant-Colonel Henderson, with
+ the State troops, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonels Hampton,
+ Middleton, and Polk, our left. Lieutenant-Colonel Washington,
+ with his horse and the Delaware troops, under Captain Kirkwood,
+ formed a corps of reserve. Two three-pounders, under
+ Captain-Lieutenant Gaines, advanced with the front line, and two
+ sixes, under Captain Browne, with the second.
+
+ The legion and State troops formed our advance, and were to
+ retire upon the flanks upon the enemy's forming. In this order we
+ moved on to the attack. The legion and State troops fell in with
+ a party of the enemy's horse and foot, about four miles from
+ their camp, who, mistaking our people for a party of militia,
+ charged them briskly, but were soon convinced of their mistake by
+ the reception they met with. The infantry of the State troops
+ kept up a heavy fire, and the legion in front, under Captain
+ Rudolph, charged them with fixed bayonets; they fled on all
+ sides, leaving four or five dead on the ground, and several more
+ wounded. As this was supposed to be the advance of the British
+ army, our front line was ordered to form and move on briskly in
+ line, the legion and State troops to take their position upon the
+ flanks. All the country is covered with timber, from the place
+ the action began to Eutaw Springs. The firing began again between
+ two and three miles from the British camp. The militia were
+ ordered to keep advancing as they fired. The enemy's advanced
+ parties were soon driven in, and a most tremendous fire began on
+ both sides from right to left, and the legion and State troops
+ were closely engaged. General Marion, Colonel Malmady, and
+ General Pickens conducted the troops with great gallantry and
+ good conduct; and the militia fought with a degree of spirit and
+ firmness that reflects the highest honour upon that class of
+ soldiers. But the enemy's fire being greatly superior to ours,
+ and continuing to advance, the militia began to give ground. The
+ North Carolina brigade, under General Sumner, was ordered up to
+ their support. These were all new levies, and had been under
+ discipline but little more than a month, notwithstanding which
+ they fought with a degree of obstinacy that would do honour to
+ the best of veterans, and I could hardly tell which to admire
+ most, the gallantry of the officers or the bravery of the troops.
+ They kept up a heavy and well directed fire, and the enemy
+ returned it with equal spirit, for they really fought worthy of a
+ better cause, and great execution was done on both sides. In this
+ stage of the action, the Virginians under Lieutenant-Colonel
+ Campbell, and the Marylanders under Colonel Williams, were led on
+ to a brisk charge, with trailed arms, through a heavy cannonade
+ and a shower of musket balls. Nothing could exceed the gallantry
+ and firmness of both officers and soldiers upon this (p. 054)
+ occasion. They preserved their order, and pressed on with such
+ unshaken resolution that they bore all before them. The enemy was
+ routed in all quarters. Lieutenant-Colonel Lee had, with great
+ address, gallantry, and good conduct, turned the enemy's left
+ flank, and was charging them in rear at the same time the
+ Virginia and Maryland troops were charging them in front. A most
+ valuable officer, Lieutenant-Colonel Hampton, who commanded the
+ State cavalry, and who fortunately succeeded Lieutenant-Colonel
+ Henderson in command, charged a party of the enemy, and took
+ upwards of one hundred prisoners. Lieutenant-Colonel Washington
+ brought up the corps of reserve upon the left, where the enemy
+ seemed disposed to make further resistance, and charged them so
+ briskly with the cavalry and Captain Kirkwood's infantry as gave
+ them no time to rally or form. Lieutenant-Colonels Polk and
+ Middleton, who commanded the State infantry, were no less
+ conspicuous for their good conduct than their intrepidity; and
+ the troops under their command gave a specimen of what may be
+ expected from men, naturally brave, when improved by proper
+ discipline. Captain-Lieutenant Gaines, who commanded the
+ three-pounders with the front line, did great execution until his
+ pieces were dismounted. We kept close at the enemy's heels after
+ they broke, until we got into their camp, and a great number of
+ prisoners were continually falling into our hands, and some
+ hundreds of the fugitives ran off toward Charleston. But a party
+ threw themselves into a large three-story brick house, which
+ stands near the spring; others took post in a picqueted garden,
+ while others were lodged in an impenetrable thicket, consisting
+ of a cragged shrub called a blackjack. Thus secured in front, and
+ upon the right by the house and a deep ravine, upon the left by
+ the picqueted garden and in the impenetrable shrubs, and the rear
+ also being secured by the springs and deep hollow ways, the enemy
+ renewed the action. Every exertion was made to dislodge them.
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Washington made most astonishing efforts to
+ get through the thicket to charge the enemy in the rear, but
+ found it impracticable, had his horse shot under him, and was
+ wounded and taken prisoner. Four six-pounders were ordered up
+ before the house--two of our own and two of the enemy's, which
+ they had abandoned--and they were pushed on so much under the
+ command of the fire from the house and the party in the thicket
+ as rendered it impracticable to bring them off again when the
+ troops were ordered to retire. Never were pieces better served;
+ most of the men and officers were either killed or wounded.
+ Washington failing in his charge upon the left, and the legion
+ baffled in an attempt upon the right, and finding our infantry
+ galled by the fire of the enemy, and our ammunition mostly
+ consumed, though both officers and men continued to exhibit
+ uncommon acts of heroism, I thought proper to retire out of the
+ fire of the house, and draw up the troops at a little distance in
+ the woods, not thinking it advisable to push our advantages
+ further, being persuaded the enemy could not hold the post many
+ hours, and that our chance to attack them on the retreat was
+ better than a second attempt to dislodge them, in which, if we
+ succeeded, it must be attended with considerable loss.
+
+ We collected all our wounded, except such as were under the
+ command of the fire of the house, and retired to the ground from
+ which we marched in the morning, there being no water nearer, (p. 055)
+ and the troops ready to faint with the heat and want of
+ refreshment, the action having continued near four hours. I left
+ on the field of action a strong picquet, and early in the morning
+ detached General Marion and Lieutenant-Colonel Lee, with the
+ legion of horse between Eutaw and Charleston, to prevent any
+ reinforcements from coming to the relief of the enemy; and also
+ to retard their march, should they attempt to retire, and give
+ time to the army to fall upon their rear and put a finishing
+ stroke to our success. We left two pieces of our artillery in the
+ hands of the enemy, and brought off one of theirs. On the evening
+ of the 9th the enemy retired, leaving upward of seventy of their
+ wounded behind them, and not less than one thousand stand of arms
+ that were picked up on the field, and found broke and concealed
+ in the Eutaw Springs. They stove between twenty and thirty
+ puncheons of rum, and destroyed a great variety of other stores,
+ which they had not carriages to carry off. We pursued them the
+ moment we got intelligence of their retiring; but they formed a
+ junction with Major McArthur at this place, General Marion and
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Lee not having a force sufficient to prevent
+ it; but on our approach they retired to the neighbourhood of
+ Charleston. We have taken five hundred prisoners, including the
+ wounded the enemy left behind; and I think they cannot have
+ suffered less than six hundred more in killed and wounded. The
+ fugitives that fled from the field of battle spread such an alarm
+ that the enemy burnt their stores at Dorchester, and abandoned
+ their post at Fair Lawn; and a great number of negroes and others
+ were employed in felling trees across the roads for some miles
+ without the gates at Charleston. Nothing but the brick house, and
+ the peculiar strength of the position at Eutaw, saved the remains
+ of the British army from being all made prisoners.
+
+ We pursued them as far as this place; but not being able to
+ overtake them, we shall halt a day or two to refresh, and then
+ take our old position on the high hills of Santee. I think myself
+ principally indebted for the victory we obtained to the free use
+ of the bayonet, made by the Virginians and Marylanders, the
+ infantry of the legion, and Captain Kirkwood's light infantry,
+ and though few armies ever exhibited equal bravery with ours in
+ general, yet the conduct and intrepidity of these corps were
+ peculiarly conspicuous. Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell fell as he
+ was leading his troops to the charge, and though he fell with
+ distinguished marks of honour, yet his loss is much to be
+ regretted; he was the great soldier and the firm patriot.
+
+ Our loss in officers is considerable, more from their value than
+ their number; for never did men or officers offer their blood
+ more willingly in the service of their country. I cannot help
+ acknowledging my obligations to Colonel Williams for his great
+ activity on this and many other occasions in forming the army,
+ and for his uncommon intrepidity in leading on the Maryland
+ troops to the charge, which exceeded anything I ever saw. I also
+ feel myself greatly indebted to Captains Pierce and Pendleton,
+ Major Hyrne and Captain Shubrick, my aids-de-camp, for their
+ activity and good conduct throughout the whole of the action.
+
+ This despatch will be handed to Your Excellency by Captain
+ Pierce, to whom I beg leave to refer you for further particulars.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Nath. GREENE.
+
+ _____
+
+_John Jay to Major William Pierce and others._ (p. 056)
+
+ Office for Foreign Affairs,
+ 12 February, 1788.
+ _To the Honourables_
+ MAJOR WILLIAM PIERCE and NATHANIEL PENDLETON, Esquire, of
+ Georgia, and LIEUTENANT-COLONEL LEWIS MORRIS[46], MAJOR THOMAS
+ SHUBRICK and MAJOR HYRNE, of South Carolina, formerly aids of
+ the late General GREENE.
+
+ Sir: It gives me pleasure to have an opportunity of transmitting
+ to you, by order of Congress, a copy of the medal struck by their
+ direction in honour of the late General Greene. A variety of
+ circumstances conspire to render this work of public attention
+ acceptable to you, though I am persuaded none among them will
+ more immediately affect the feelings, than the relation it bears
+ to that great man, whose loss you in particular, and the people
+ of America in general, have great reason to regret and lament.
+
+ I have the honour to be, etc.
+ John JAY.
+
+ [Footnote 46: Colonel Morris's name does not
+ appear in the resolution of Congress. See No. 11,
+ page 50.]
+
+
+
+No. 12. (p. 057)
+PLATE XII.
+
+
+_April 19, 1782._
+
+ Libera soror. [Rx]. Tyrannis virtute repulsa.
+
+ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
+BY THE UNITED NETHERLANDS.
+
+LIBERA SOROR. (_Free sister._) The sun shedding its rays on two
+maidens, one of whom, with breast-plate and helmet, and personifying
+the States-General of the Netherlands, holds with her left hand a
+staff surmounted by a cap of Liberty over the head of her companion.
+The latter, an Indian queen (_America_), holds in her left hand a
+lance, a shield with thirteen stars (_the thirteen original United
+States_), and the end of a chain which binds a leopard (_Great
+Britain_), on whose head she rests her left foot. Their right hands,
+clasped, are extended over a fire burning on an antique altar
+ornamented with a caduceus and a cornucopia, the attributes of
+Mercury, god of commerce. Exergue: SOLEMNI DECR. AGN. 19 APR.
+MDCCLXXXII (_Solemni decreto agnita, 19 Aprilis, 1782: Acknowledged by
+a solemn decree, April 19, 1782_).
+
+TYRANNIS VIRTUTE REPULSA. (_Tyranny repulsed by virtue._) A unicorn
+(_Great Britain_), royally gorged, lies extended at the foot of a
+precipice, against which it has broken its horn; in the background a
+vast country (_America_), diversified by plains, rivers and mountains.
+Exergue: SUB GALLIAE AUSPICIIS (_Under the auspices of France_). On the
+platform: I. G. HOLTZHEY FEC. (_fecit_).[47]
+
+ [Footnote 47: See INTRODUCTION, page x.]
+
+
+JOHN GEORGE HOLTZHEY was born in Amsterdam, in 1729. He was the (p. 058)
+eldest son of Martin Holtzhey, a celebrated engraver, who died in
+Middleburg, November I, 1767. John George Holtzhey was the pupil of
+his father, and engraved, in collaboration with him, the plates in a
+work entitled: "Catalogus der (73 stuks) Medailles en gedenkpenningen
+betrekking hebbende op de voornamste historien der Vereenigde Nederlanden
+(Amsterdam, 1755)." Among his works are two medals relating to the
+United States of America, "Libera Soror," and "Faustissimo Foedere
+Junctae." He was one of the most eminent engravers of his day. He died
+in Amsterdam, February 15, 1808.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_John Adams to Robert R. Livingston._
+
+ To
+ Robert R. LIVINGSTON, Amsterdam, April 19th, 1782.
+ Secretary for Foreign Affairs.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour to transmit you the following resolutions
+ of the respective provinces, relative to my admission in quality
+ of Minister Plenipotentiary, together with two resolutions of
+ their High Mightinesses, upon the same subject, all in the order
+ in which they were taken.
+
+ I have the honour, etc.,
+ John ADAMS.
+
+ _____
+
+FRIESLAND.
+
+_Extract from the Register Book of the Lords, the States of
+Friesland._
+
+ "The requisition of Mr. Adams, for presenting his letters of
+ credence from the United States of North America to their High
+ Mightinesses, having been brought into the Assembly and put into
+ deliberation, as also the ulterior address to the same purpose,
+ with a demand of a categorical answer, made by him, as is more
+ amply mentioned in the minutes of their High Mightinesses, of the
+ 4th of May, 1781, and the 9th of January, 1782, whereupon, it
+ having been taken into consideration, that the said Mr. Adams
+ would have, probably, some propositions to make to their High
+ Mightinesses, and to present to them the principal articles and
+ foundations upon which the Congress, on their part, would enter
+ into a treaty of commerce and friendship, or other affairs to
+ propose, in regard to which dispatch would be requisite.
+
+ "It has been thought fit and resolved to authorize the gentlemen,
+ the Deputies of this Province at the generality, and to
+ instruct them to direct things, at the table of their High (p. 059)
+ Mightinesses, in such a manner that the said Mr. Adams be
+ admitted forthwith as Minister of the Congress of North America,
+ with further order to the said Deputies, that if there should be
+ made, moreover, any similar propositions by the same to inform
+ immediately their Noble Mightinesses of them. And an extract of
+ the present Resolution shall be sent them for their information,
+ that they may conduct themselves conformably.
+
+ "Thus resolved at the Province House, the 26th of February, 1782.
+ "Compared with the aforesaid book to my knowledge,
+ A. J. V. SMINIA."
+
+ _____
+
+HOLLAND AND WEST FRIESLAND.
+
+_Extract of the Resolutions of the Lords, the States of Holland and
+West Friesland, taken in the Assembly of their Noble and Grand
+Mightinesses._
+
+ Thursday, March 28th, 1782.
+
+ "Deliberated by resumption upon the address and the ulterior
+ address of Mr. Adams, made the 4th of May, 1781, and the 9th of
+ January, 1782, to the President of the States-General,
+ communicated to the Assembly, the 9th of May, 1781, and the 22d
+ of last month, to present his letters of credence, in the name of
+ the United States of America, to their High Mightinesses, by
+ which ulterior address the said Mr. Adams has demanded a
+ categorical answer, that he may acquaint his constituents
+ thereof; deliberated also upon the petitions of a great number of
+ merchants, manufacturers and others, inhabitants of this Province
+ interested in commerce, to support their request presented to the
+ States-General the 20th current, to the end that efficacious
+ measures might be taken to establish a commerce between this
+ country and North America, copies of which petitions have been
+ given to the members the 21st; and it has been thought fit, and
+ resolved, that the affairs shall be directed, on the part of
+ their Noble and Grand Mightinesses, at the Assembly of the
+ States-General, and there shall be there made the strongest
+ instances that Mr. Adams be admitted and acknowledged, as soon as
+ possible, by their High Mightinesses in quality of Envoy of the
+ United States of America. And the Counsellor-Pensionary has been
+ charged to inform, under his hand, the said Mr. Adams of this
+ Resolution of their Noble and Grand Mightinesses."
+
+ _____
+
+ZEALAND.
+
+_Extract of the Resolutions of their High Mightinesses, the
+States-General of the United Provinces._
+
+ Monday, April 8th, 1782.
+
+ "The Deputies of the Province of Zealand have brought to the
+ Assembly and caused to be read there the Resolution of the States
+ of the said Province, their principals, to cause to be admitted
+ as soon as possible, Mr. Adams, in quality of Envoy of the
+ Congress of North America in the following terms:
+
+_Extract from the Register of the Resolutions of the Lords, the (p. 060)
+States of Zealand._
+
+ April 4th, 1782.
+
+ "It has been thought fit and ordered, that the gentlemen, the
+ Ordinary Deputies of this Province at the generality, shall be
+ convoked and authorized, as it is done by the present, to assist
+ in the direction of affairs at the Assembly of their High
+ Mightinesses, in such a manner that Mr. Adams may be acknowledged
+ as soon as possible as Envoy of the Congress of North America;
+ that the letters of credence be accepted, and that he be admitted
+ in that quality according to the ordinary form, enjoining further
+ upon the said Lords, the Ordinary Deputies, to take such
+ propositions as should be made to this Republic, by the said Mr.
+ Adams, for the information and the deliberation of their High
+ Mightinesses, to the end to transmit them here as soon as
+ possible. And an extract of this resolution of their Noble
+ Mightinesses shall be sent to the gentlemen, their Ordinary
+ Deputies, to serve them as an instruction.
+ J. M. CHALMERS."
+
+ "Upon which, having deliberated, it has been thought fit and
+ resolved to pray, by the present, the gentlemen, the Deputies of
+ the Provinces of Guelderland, Utrecht, and Groningen, and
+ Ommelanden, who have not as yet explained themselves upon this
+ subject, to be pleased to do it, as soon as possible."
+
+ _____
+
+OVERYSSEL.
+
+_Extract from the Register of the Resolutions of the Equestrian Order,
+and of the cities composing the States Overyssel._
+
+ Zwoll, 5th of April, 1782.
+
+ "The grand Bailiff de Sallande, and the other commissions of
+ their Noble Mightinesses for the affairs of finance, having
+ examined, conformably to their commissarial resolution of the 3d
+ of this month, the addresses of Mr. Adams, communicated to the
+ Assembly the 4th of May, 1781, and the 22d of February, 1782, to
+ present his letters of credence to their High Mightinesses, in
+ the name of the United States of North America; as well as the
+ resolution of the Lords, the States of Holland and West
+ Friesland, dated the 28th of March, 1782, carried the 29th of the
+ same month to the Assembly of their High Mightinesses, for the
+ admission and acknowledgment of Mr. Adams, have reported to the
+ Assembly, that they should be of opinion that the gentlemen, the
+ Deputies of this Province in the States-General, ought to be
+ authorized and charged to declare in the Assembly of their High
+ Mightinesses, that the Equestrian Order and the cities' Judge,
+ that it is proper to acknowledge, as soon as possible, Mr. Adams,
+ in quality of Minister of the United States of North America, to
+ their High Mightinesses. Upon which, having deliberated, the
+ Equestrian Order and the cities have conformed themselves to the
+ said report.
+
+ "Compared with the aforesaid Register.
+ Derk DUMBAR."
+
+ _____
+
+GRONINGEN. (p. 061)
+
+_Extract from the Register of the Resolutions of their Noble
+Mightinesses, the States of Groningen and Ommelanden._
+
+ Tuesday, 9th of April, 1782.
+
+ "The Lords, the States of Groningen and Ommelanden, having heard
+ the report of the gentlemen, the Commissioners for the Petitions
+ of the Council of State and the Finances of the Province, and
+ having carefully examined the demand of Mr. Adams, to present his
+ letters of credence from the United States of North America, to
+ their High Mightinesses, have, after deliberation upon the
+ subject, declared themselves of opinion that in the critical
+ circumstances in which the Republic finds itself at present, it
+ is proper to take, without loss of time, such efficacious
+ measures as may not only repair the losses and damages that the
+ kingdom of Great Britain has caused, in a manner so unjust, and
+ against every shadow of right, to the commerce of the Republic,
+ as well before as after the war, but particularly such as may
+ establish the free navigation and the commerce of the Republic,
+ for the future, upon the most solid foundations, as may confirm
+ and re-assure it by the strongest bonds of reciprocal interest,
+ and that, in consequence, the gentlemen, the Deputies at the
+ Assembly of their High Mightinesses, ought to be authorized on
+ the part of the Province, as they are by the present, to admit
+ Mr. Adams to present his letters of credence from the United
+ States of North America, and to receive the propositions which he
+ shall make, to make report of them to the Lords, the States of
+ this Province.
+ E. LEWE, _Secretary_."
+
+ "The States-General, having deliberated the same day upon this
+ resolution, have _Resolved_, 'That the Deputies of the Province
+ of Guelderland, which has not yet declared itself upon the same
+ subject, should be requested to be pleased to do it as soon as
+ possible.'"
+
+ _____
+
+UTRECHT.
+
+_Extract of the Resolutions of their Noble Mightinesses, the States of
+the Province of Utrecht._
+
+ 10th of April, 1782.
+
+ "Heard the report of Mr. de Westerveld, and other Deputies of
+ their Noble Mightinesses for the Department of War, who, in
+ virtue of the commissarial resolutions of the 9th of May, 1781,
+ the 16th of January, and the 20th of March, of the present year,
+ 1782, have examined the resolution of their High Mightinesses of
+ the 4th of May, 1781, containing an overture, that the President
+ of the Assembly of their High Mightinesses had made, 'that a
+ person, styling himself J. Adams, had been with him, and had
+ given him to understand that he had received letters of credence
+ for their High Mightinesses from the United States of North
+ America, with a request that he would be pleased to communicate
+ them to their High Mightinesses,' as well as the resolution of
+ their High Mightinesses, of the 9th of January, containing an
+ ulterior overture of the President, 'that the said Mr. Adams (p. 062)
+ had been with him, and had insisted upon a categorical
+ answer, whether his said letters of credence would be accepted or
+ not;' finally, the resolution of their High Mightinesses, of the
+ 5th of March last, with the insertion of the resolution of
+ Friesland, containing a proposition 'to admit Mr. Adams in
+ quality of Minister of the Congress of North America.'"
+
+ "Upon which, having deliberated and remarked that the Lords, the
+ States of Holland and West Friesland, by their resolution,
+ carried the 29th of March to the States-General, have also
+ consented to the admission of the said Mr. Adams in quality of
+ Minister of the Congress of North America, it has been thought
+ fit, and resolved, that the gentlemen, the Deputies of this
+ Province in the States-General, should be authorized, as their
+ Noble Highnesses authorize them by the present, to conform
+ themselves, in the name of this Province, to the resolution of
+ the Lords, the States of Holland and West Friesland, and of
+ Friesland, and to consent, by consequence, that Mr. Adams be
+ acknowledged and admitted as Minister of the United States of
+ North America, their Noble Mightinesses being at the same time of
+ opinion that it would be necessary to acquaint Her Majesty, the
+ Empress of Russia, and the other neutral powers, with the
+ resolution to be taken by their High Mightinesses upon this
+ subject, in communicating to them (as much as shall be necessary)
+ the reasons which have induced their High Mightinesses to it, and
+ in giving them the strongest assurances, that the intention of
+ their High Mightinesses is by no means to prolong thereby the
+ war, which they would have willingly prevented and terminated
+ long since; but that, on the contrary, their High Mightinesses
+ wish nothing with more ardor than a prompt re-establishment of
+ peace, and that they shall be always ready on their part to
+ co-operate in it, in all possible ways, and with a suitable
+ readiness, so far as that shall be any way compatible with their
+ honour and their dignity. And to this end an extract of this
+ shall be carried by missive to the gentlemen, the Deputies at the
+ Generality."
+
+ _____
+
+GUELDERLAND.
+
+_Extract from the Precis of the ordinary Diet, held in the City of
+Nimeguen, in the month of April, 1782._
+
+ Wednesday, 17th of April, 1782.
+
+ "The requisition of Mr. Adams to present his letter of credence
+ to their High Mightinesses, in the name of the United States of
+ North America, having been brought to the Assembly and read, as
+ well as an ulterior address made upon this subject, with the
+ demand of a categorical answer by the said Mr. Adams, more amply
+ mentioned in the registers of their High Mightinesses, of the
+ date of the 4th of May, 1781, and the 9th of January, 1782,
+ moreover, the resolutions of the Lords, the States of the six
+ other Provinces, carried successively to the Assembly of their
+ High Mightinesses, and all tending to admit Mr. Adams, in quality
+ of Envoy of the United States of North America, to this Republic;
+ upon which their Noble Mightinesses, after deliberation, have (p. 063)
+ resolved to authorize the Deputies of this Province, as they
+ authorize them by the present, to conform themselves in the name
+ of this Province, to the resolution of the Lords, the States of
+ Holland and West Friesland, and to consent, by consequence, that
+ Mr. Adams may be acknowledged and admitted, in quality of Envoy
+ of the United States of North America, to this Republic. In
+ consequence, an extract of the present shall be sent to the said
+ Deputies, to make, as soon as possible, the requisite overture of
+ it to the Assembly of their High Mightinesses.
+ J. IN DE BETOUW."
+
+ This resolution of Guelderland was no sooner remitted, on the
+ 19th, to their High Mightinesses, than they took immediately a
+ resolution conformable to the unanimous wish of the Seven
+ Provinces, conceived in the following terms:
+
+_Extract from the Register of the Resolutions of their High
+Mightinesses, the States-General of the United Provinces._
+
+ Friday, April 19th, 1782.
+
+ "Deliberated by resumption upon the address and the ulterior
+ address, made by Mr. Adams, the 4th of May, 1781, and the 9th of
+ January of the current year, to the President of the Assembly of
+ their High Mightinesses, to present to their High Mightinesses
+ his letters of credence, in the name of the United States of
+ North America, and by which ulterior address the said Mr. Adams
+ has demanded a categorical answer, to the end to be able to
+ acquaint his constituents thereof; it has been thought fit and
+ resolved, that Mr. Adams shall be admitted and acknowledged in
+ quality of Envoy of the United States of North America to their
+ High Mightinesses, as he is admitted and acknowledged by the
+ present."
+ W. BOREEL."
+ "Compared with the aforesaid register.
+ H. FAGEL."
+
+ _____
+
+THE FORMAL RESOLUTION OF THEIR HIGH MIGHTINESSES.
+
+_Extract from the Register of the Resolutions of their High
+Mightinesses, the States-General of the United Provinces._
+
+ Monday, April 22d, 1782.
+
+ "Mr. Boreel, who presided in the Assembly the last week, has
+ reported to their High Mightinesses and notified them, that Mr.
+ John Adams, Envoy of the United States of America, had been with
+ him last Saturday, and had presented to him a letter from the
+ Assembly of Congress, written at Philadelphia, the 1st of
+ January, 1781, containing a credence for the said Mr. Adams, to
+ the end to reside in quality of its Minister Plenipotentiary near
+ their High Mightinesses. Upon which, having deliberated, it has
+ been thought fit and resolved to declare by the present, that the
+ said Mr. Adams is agreeable to their High Mightinesses; that (p. 064)
+ he shall be acknowledged in quality of Minister Plenipotentiary,
+ and that there shall be granted to him an audience, or assigned
+ commissioners, when he shall demand it. audience, or assigned
+ above shall be given to the said Mr. Adams by the agent, Van der
+ Burch de Spieringshoek.
+ W. VAN CITTERS."
+ "Compared with the aforesaid register.
+ H. FAGEL."
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS, FROM THE ROYAL ARCHIVES AT THE HAGUE, RELATING TO
+THE ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA BY THE UNITED
+NETHERLANDS.[48]
+
+ [Footnote 48: These copies were obtained through
+ the politeness of Baron de Zuijlen de Nijevelt,
+ Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary of
+ the Netherlands to France. The original record of
+ the action of the State of Utrecht could not be
+ found in the Royal Archives.]
+
+_Extract uit het Register der resolutien van de Heeren Staten der
+provincie Friesland van den jare 1782._
+
+ Adams te admitteeren als minister weegens het congres van
+ Noord-America.
+
+ Ter vergaderinge voorgedragen en in deliberatie gelegd zijnde het
+ versoek van de heer Adams om zijne brieven van credentie van de
+ Verenigde Staten van Noord-America aan Hun Hoog Mog' te
+ overhandigen, mitsgaders het nader adres ten dien einde, met
+ versoek van een cathegorisch antwoord door deselve gedaan en
+ breeder in de notulen van Hun Hoog Mog' van den 4 May 1781 en 9
+ January 1782, vermeld.
+
+ Waarop in consideratie genomen zijnde dat de voorschr. heer Adams
+ niet onwaarschijnlijk eenige propositien aan Hun Hoog Mog' zoude
+ hebben te doen en voorname articulen en gronden aan Hun Hoog Mog'
+ kunnen ter hand stellen, waarop 't congres aan haare zijde in een
+ tractaat van commercie en vriendschap zoude willen treeden of
+ andere zaaken hebben voortedragen, waaromtrent spoed vereischt
+ wierde, is goedgevonden en verstaan de heeren deeser prov.
+ gecommitteerden ter generaliteit te authoriseeren en te gelasten,
+ het ter tafel van Hun Hoog Mog' daar heen te dirigeeren, dat
+ gedagte heer Adams met den eersten als minister van het Congres
+ van Noord-America, werde toegelaten, met verdere last aan
+ opgemelde gecommitteerden, om indien door deselve eenige
+ soortgelijke propositien werden gedaan, daar van ten spoedigsten
+ Hun Ed. Mog' te informeeren.
+
+ En sal extract deeses aan hun worden toegesonden tot narigt en om
+ sig daar na te gedragen.
+
+ Aldus geresolveert op 't Landschapshuis den 26e February 1782.
+
+ _____
+
+_Extract uit het Register der resolutien van de Heeren Staten van (p. 065)
+Holland en Westfriesland van den jare, 1782._
+
+ Donderdag den 28 Maart 1782.
+
+ Bij resumtie gedelibereert zijnde op het adres en nader adres van
+ den heer Adams den 4 Mey 1781 en 9 January 1782 aan den heer ter
+ generaliteit presideerende en den 9 Mey 1781 en 22 der voorlede
+ maand ter vergadering gecommuniceert, om uit naam der Vereenigde
+ Staten van Noord-America zijne brieven van credentie aan Hun Hoog
+ Mogende te overhandigen en bij welk nader adres gemelde heer
+ Adams een cathagorisch antwoord heeft versogt, om daar van aan
+ sijne principaalen kennis te kunnen geeven, als meede op de
+ requesten van een groot aantal commercieerende, fabriceerende en
+ sig door den handel geneerende ingezeetenen in deese provincie,
+ tot appui van hunne versoeken ter generaliteit den 20 deeser
+ gedaan ten einde tot verkrijging der handel uit deesen landen op
+ Noord-America, efficacieuse middelen werden beraamt, op den 21
+ deeser bij copie aan de leden gegeeven.
+
+ Is goedgevonden en verstaan dat de saak van wegens Hun Edele
+ Groot Mog' ter generaliteit daar heen sal worden gedirigeert en
+ daar op ten sterkste geinsteert, dat de heer Adams als afgezant
+ van de Vereenigde Staten van Noord-America, ten spoedigsten bij
+ Hun Hoog Mog' moge werden ge admitteert en erkent; en word de
+ raadpensionaris gelast den voornoemden heer Adams van deese Hun
+ Edele Groot Mog' resolutie onder de hand te informeeren.
+
+ _____
+
+_Extract uit het Register der resolutien van de Heeren Staten der
+provincie Zeeland van den jare 1782._
+
+ Den 29 Maart 1782.
+
+ De raadpensionaris heeft ter voldoening aan Hun Ed. Mog'
+ onderscheiden resolutien commissoriaal van den 5, 11 en 25 deezer
+ maand, uit naam van heeren commissarissen gerapporteerd, dat
+ geexamineerd hadden het nader adres van den heer Adams, den 9
+ January deezes jaars aan den heer praesideerende ter vergadering
+ van Hun Hoog Mog' gedaan op het subject van het overhandigen
+ zijner brieven van credentie aan hoogstdezelve uit naam der
+ Vereenigde Staten van Noord-America, ten einde en met verzoek van
+ een cathagorisch antwoord daar op, om deswegens aan dezelve
+ kennis te kunnen geeven, voorts de resolutie der heeren Staten
+ van Vriesland den 5 deezer ter generaliteit ingebragt, houdende
+ een auctorisatie op derzelver gecommitteerden om het aldaar daar
+ heen te dirigeeren dat gemelden heer Adams met den eersten als
+ minister van Noord-America worde erkend, nog Hun Hoog Mog'
+ resolutie nopens de aan hoogstdezelve den 20 deezer
+ gepraesenteerde drie requesten door commercieerende, fabriceerende
+ en met verscheiden handel zig geneerende ingezeetenen deezer
+ landen, waar bij op het sterkste aandringen op een vryen handel
+ tusschen de ingezeetenen deezer republicq en die van
+ Noord-America, en eindelijk de den 25 deezer aan Hun Ed. (p. 066)
+ Mog' gepraesenteerde requesten door het collegie van de
+ kooplieden te Middelburg en die te Vlissingen, verzoekende dat
+ hoogstdezelve de heeren gedeputeerden van deeze provincie ter
+ generaliteit gelieven te auctoriseeren, om het ter vergadering
+ van Hun Hoog Mog' insgelyks daar heen te helpen dirigeeren dat
+ meergenoemden heer Adams in voorschr. qualiteit erkend, met
+ denzelven in onderhandeling getreeden en een tractaat van
+ commercie en navigatie gesloten werde, bij voorige notulen
+ breeder vermeld, bij welke gelegenheid de raadpensionaris wyders
+ heeft gerelateerd, dat even voor het aangaan van het besogne nog
+ ontfangen hebbende een request van een groot aantal kooplieden,
+ rheeders, assuradeurs, trafiquanten en fabricquers binnen de stad
+ Middelburg, tendeerende ten zelven einde als de twee evengemelde
+ requesten, heeren commissarissen, onder Hun Ed. Mog' welnemen
+ (als relatif tot het onderwerp waar over 't besogne was
+ gedecerneerd) geen zwarigheid hadden gemaakt om hetzelve al mede
+ te examineeren en daarop rapport te doen, ter wyl heeren
+ commissarissen ook waren geinformeerd geworden dat eenige
+ kooplieden te Veere mede van voornemen zijn geweest om tot
+ hetzelve oogmerk zig aan Hun Ed. Mog te adresseeren, indien
+ tijdig genoeg van de voorschr. requesten hadden kennis gehad; dat
+ heeren commissarissen, in ernstige overweginge genomen hebbende
+ het verval van den koophandel, die voorname zenuw van den Staat,
+ de vermindering, ja bijna geheelen stilstand van de fabricquen en
+ traficquen, mitsgaders het middel 't geen mogelyk zon kunnen
+ strekken om al het zelve wederom eenigsins te herstellen of wel
+ tot voorig aanzien te brengen, en dus de schaden, welken de
+ commercieerende ingezeetenen door den oorlog met het rijk van
+ Groot Brittannien bereids geleeden hadden, wederom vergoed te
+ krijgen, door naamelyk het sluyten van een tractaat van commercie
+ en negotie tusschen deeze republyk en de Vereenigde Staten van
+ Noord-Amerika als waar op zoo zeer door 's lands ingezeetenen
+ alomme wordt aangedrongen en waar toe ook van de zyde van het
+ congres sedert eenige maanden aanzoek was gedaan; na alles
+ rijpelyk onderzogt, als mede in 't breede beredeneerd te hebben,
+ eindelijk gemeend hadden Hun Ed. Mog' te moeten adviseeren dat de
+ heeren ordinaris gedeputeerden deezer provincie ter generaliteit
+ door Hun Ed. Mog' zoo spoedig immers doenlijk zij, zouden
+ behooren te worden aangeschreeven en geauctoriseerd, om het ter
+ vergadering van Hun Hoog Mog' daar heen te helpen dirigeeren, dat
+ de heer Adams, als minister plenipotentiaris van het congres van
+ Noord-America, ten spoedigsten werde erkend, deszelfs brieven van
+ credentie geaccepteerd, en in die hoedanigheid ter gemelde
+ vergadering van Hun Hoog Mog' toegelaaten, met verderen last aan
+ dezelve heeren ordinaris gedeputeerden om zoodaanige propositien,
+ als door den voorschr. heer aan deeze republijk zouden mogen
+ worden gedaan, ter kennis en deliberatie van Hun Ed. Mog'
+ copielijk overtenemen en dezelve ten spoedigsten overtezenden.
+ Waarop gedelibereerd zijnde, hebben de raadpensionaris voor den
+ heer eersten edelen, benevens de heeren gedeputeerden van
+ Middelburg, Ziericzee, Goes, Tholen en Veere copie verzogt van
+ het voorschr. rapport en die van Tholen ook van de drie over het
+ zelve onderwerp aan Hun Ed. Mog' gepresenteerde requesten, om te
+ brengen ter kennis en deliberatie van de heeren hunne respective
+ committenten. De heeren gedeputeerden van Vlissingen hebben
+ geinhaereerd het advys door dezelve omtrent de admissie van den
+ heer Adams op de laastvoorige sessie uitgebragt en wyders
+ geinsteerd dat de andere leden zig, zoo ras mogelijk op dit (p. 067)
+ important poinct gelieven te verklaaren, waar op die van Veere
+ aannaamen om in deeze zaak alle spoed te recommandeeren aan
+ de heeren hunne principaalen, ten einde zoo veel van dezelve
+ dependeerde, een spoedige conclusie zal kunnen worden genomen.
+
+ _____
+
+_Extract uit het Register der resolutien van de Heeren Staten der
+provincie Zeeland van den jare 1782._
+
+ Den 4 April 1782.
+
+ De heer van Lijnden voor den heer eersten edelen en de heeren
+ gedeputeerden van Middelburg, Ziericzee, Goes, Tholen en Veere
+ verzogt zijnde zig te verklaaren op het rapport van het besogne
+ den 29 Maart, jongstleden ter vergadering uitgebragt, raakende
+ het erkennen van den heer Adams, als minister plenipotentiaris
+ der Vereenigde Staten van Noord-Amerika, by voorige notulen
+ breeder gemeld, heeft eerstgemelden heer aangenomen zig daar op
+ nader te zullen verklaaren; die van Middelburg, Goes, Tholen en
+ Veere hebben, op speciaalen last van de heeren hunne
+ committenten, zig met het voorschr. rapport geconformeerd en die
+ van Ziericzee uit specialen last gedeclareerd, dat indien de
+ kooplieden binnen de stad Ziericzee in tijds kennisse bekomen
+ hadden dat die van de Walchersche steden zig wegens deeze zaak
+ aan Hun Ed. Mog' zouden addresseeren, zij uyt overtuiging van het
+ nut, het geen uit eene alliantie met de Noord-Americaansche
+ Staten voor den koophandel en scheepvaart deezer landen zouden
+ voortspruiten, zig zeer gaarne daar bij zouden hebben gevoegd.
+ Dat Hun Ed. Actb. ook volkomen geconvinceerd van het important
+ belang hetgeen in zoodanige alliantie voor de geheele republiq
+ geleegen zij, van wegens hunne stad de dertien Vereenigde Staten
+ van Noord-America als vry en onafhankelyk erkennen en mitsdien
+ met alle empressement moeten insteeren, dat de heeren ordinaris
+ geedeputeerden ter generaliteit ten spoedigsten werden gelast,
+ den heer Adams als minister plenipotentiaris van het congres, ter
+ audientie te admitteren en als dan de propositien, welke door
+ denzelven tot het aangaan van een tractaat van koophandel of
+ eenige andere dergelijke, mogten worden gedaan, ter deliberatie
+ van Hun Ed. Mog' overteneemen. Het welk gehoord, heeft de
+ raadpensionaris verzogt dat den heer van Lijnden zig nu ook
+ geliefde te expliceeren, die daar op gezegd heeft dat, ziende de
+ inclinatie van alle deszelfs medeleden in de admissie van den
+ heer Adams zeer wel konde toekomen, doch dat eenige bedenkingen
+ hebbende op een te neemen resolutie, conform het dispositif van
+ het voorschr. rapport, zoude praefereeren dat in deeze zaak werde
+ te werk gegaan even als bij de heeren Staten van Holland, en
+ mitsdien hoogstderzelver resolutie gevolgd, en vervolgens door
+ den raadpensionaris daar op omvrage gedaan zijnde, hebben die van
+ Middelburg geoordeeld dat alle zwaarigheid zoude kunnen worden
+ weggenomen, indien maar eenvoudig wierde gesteld de volgende
+ periode: "en in die hoedanigheid, op de gewoone wijze
+ toegelaaten," zonder melding te maken van het "admitteeren"
+ bepaaldelijk "ter vergadering van Hun Hoog Mogende," de heeren
+ gedeputeerden van de vijf andere steden hebben zig met onderlinge
+ concurrentie met het gemeld conciliatoir advijs der heeren (p. 068)
+ van Middelburg geconformeerd, waar na de heer van Lijnden
+ heeft gedeclareerd dat, ofschoon meer inclineerde, zoo als gezegd
+ heeft, om de resolutie van Holland te volgen, echter bespeurende
+ de overeenkomende sentimenten der andere leden om, onder de
+ voorgeslage verandering, het rapport ter conclusie te brengen en
+ overtuigd zijnde van de noodzaakelykheid dat hier omtrent een
+ resolutie met eenpaarigheid werde genomen, zig als nu ook daar by
+ zoude voegen, om de afdoening deezer zaak te bevorderen.
+ Vervolgens bij resumtie gedelibereerd zijnde op het voorschr.
+ rapport, als mede op de onderscheidene requesten en andere
+ stukken daar bij gemeld, is, met eenparige bewilliging van alle
+ de leden, goedgevonden en verstaan dat de heeren ordinaris
+ gedeputeerden deezer provincie ter generaliteit zullen worden
+ aangeschreven, en geauctoriseerd, gelijk geschiedt by deeze om
+ het ter vergadering van Hun Hoog Mogende daar heen te helpen
+ dirigeeren, dat de heer Adams, als afgezant van het congres van
+ Noord-America, ten spoedigsten werde erkend deszelfs brieven van
+ credentie geaccepteerd en in die hoedanigheid op de gewoone wyze
+ toegelaaten; met verdere last aan dezelve heeren ordinaris
+ gedeputeerden om zoodaanige propositien, als door den voorschr.
+ heer Adams aan deeze republicq zouden mogen worden gedaan, ter
+ kennis en deliberatie van Hun Ed. Mog' copielijk overteneemen en
+ dezelve ten spoedigsten herwaards te zenden.
+
+ En zal extract van deeze Hun Ed. Mog' resolutie aan gemelde
+ heeren ordinaris gedeputeerden, tot derzelver narigt worden
+ gezonden, zonder resumtie.
+
+ _____
+
+_Extract uit het Register der resolutien van de Heeren Staten der
+provincie Overijssel, van 11 Maart tot 1 November 1782._
+
+ Vrijdag den 5 April 1782.
+
+ De heeren de droste van Zalland en andere Hunner Ed. Mog'
+ gecommitteerden tot de zaaken van financie, ingevolge en ter
+ voldoening van derzelver resolutie commissoriaal van den 30
+ deezer hebbende geexamineerd de adressen van den heere Adams, den
+ 4e Mey 1781 en 9e January 1782, aan den heere ter generaliteit
+ presideerende en den 9e Mey 1781 en 22 February 1782 ter
+ vergadering gecommuniceert, om uit naam van de Vereenigde Staten
+ van Noord-America, zijne brieven van credentie aan Hun Hoog
+ Mogende te overhandigen; als mede de resolutie van de heeren
+ staten van Holland en Westvriesland van den 28e Maart 1782 den
+ 29e, dierzelfde maand ter vergadering van Hun Hoog Mog' ingebragt
+ op de admissie en erkentenis van den heere Adams, als afgezant
+ der Vereenigde Staten van Noord-America. Hebben ter vergadering
+ gerapporteert, dat van advise zouden wesen, dat de heeren
+ gecommitteerden van wegens deeze provincie ter generaliteit
+ zouden behooren te worden geautoriseerd en gelast, om ter
+ vergadering van Hun Hoog Mog' te declareeren, dat Ridders en
+ Steden van oordeel zijn, dat de heer Adams als afgezant van de
+ Vereenigde Staten van Noord-America bij Hun Hoog Mog' ten
+ spoedigsten behoorde te worden erkent.
+
+ Waarop zijnde gedelibereerd, hebben Ridders en Steden zig met
+ het voorschr. rapport geconformeert.
+
+ En hebben wijders de heeren gedeputeerden der stad Deventer (p. 069)
+ geinsteert, dat de twee overige pointen vervat in derzelver
+ resolutie van den 30 Maart 1782, geinsereerd in deeze onze
+ notulen van den 3 dezer mede ter deliberatie mogen worden
+ genomen.
+
+ Waarmede de heere droste van Ysselmuijden zig heeft gevoegd.
+
+ _____
+
+_Extract uit het Register der resolutien van de Heeren Staten der
+provincie Stad en Lande (Groningen) van 1781-1782._
+
+ Dingsdag den 9 April 1782.
+
+ Gedelibereert sijnde op het rapport der heeren Gecommitteerden
+ tot de petitien van de Raad van State en deezer provincie
+ finances, in dato den 26 deser, tenderende om den heere Adams tot
+ het overgeven van zijne brieven van credentie van de Vereenigde
+ Staten van Noord-America aan Hun Hoog Mogende toetelaaten,
+ luidende als volgt:
+
+ _Rapport_ der heeren Gecommitteerden tot de petitien van de Raad
+ van State en deser provincie finances.
+
+ EDELE MOGENDE HEEREN.
+
+ Door de heeren Uwer Edele Mogende gecommitteerden ingevolge en
+ ter voldoeninge aan de resolutie commissoriaal, in dato den 4 May
+ des voorigen jaars, zijnde geexamineert, het verzoek van den heer
+ Adams, om zijne brieven van credentie van de Vereenigde Staten
+ van Noord-America aan Hun Hoog Mogende te overhandigen, als mede
+ ter voldoeninge aan de resolutie commissoriaal in dato den 14
+ Maart jongstl. daar tevens zijnde gelesen en naagegaan, de
+ resolutie der Heeren Staten van Friesland op den 5 Meert, daar
+ bevorens ter vergadering van Hun Hoog Mogende ingebragt waar bij
+ de heeren derzelver gecommitteerden ter generaliteit hebben
+ gelast ter tafel van Hun Hoog Mogende het daar heen te dirigeren
+ dat de heer Adams, als minister van 't congres van Noord-America,
+ by Hun Hoog Mogende werde toegelaten met verdere last aan
+ opgemelde gecommitteerden indien door dezelve eenige propositien
+ werden gedaan, betrekkelijk het aangaan van een tractaat van
+ commercie en vriendschap, daar van ten spoedigsten de heeren
+ Staten van Friesland te informeren, hebben de heeren
+ gecommitteerden de eer UEdele Mogende te rapporteeren, dat van
+ gedagten zouden zijn, dat in de hachelijke omstandigheden, waar
+ in de republyk zich thans ziet gebragt, zodane efficacieuse
+ maatregelen, zonder tijdverzuim, behoorden te worden genomen,
+ waar door niet alleen de geledene schadens en naedeelen tegens
+ allen schijn van recht, zoo voor als nae het declareren van den
+ oorlog door het rijk van Groot Brittannien, op zulk een
+ onregtvaardige wyze aan de commercie dezer landen toegebragt,
+ zoude kunnen worden vergoed, maar vooral ook de vrye scheepvaart
+ en koophandel van de Republyk voor het toekomende op vaste
+ gronden gestelt en door de sterkste banden van weederkerige
+ belangens bevestigt en beveiligt en dat overzulks de heeren
+ UEdele Mogende gedeputeerden ter vergaderinge van Hun Hoog (p. 070)
+ Mogende behoorden te worden geauthoriseert, om zoo haast door
+ de provincie van Holland en Westfriesland, of eene der meest
+ geinteresseerde provincien, daar in mede zal sijn geconsenteert,
+ den heer Adams, tot het overgeven sijner brieven van credentie
+ van de Vereenigde Staten van Noord-America toetelaten, diens te
+ doene propositie overtenemen en daar van aan UEdele Mogende ten
+ eersten verslag te doen.
+
+ Aldus gedaan binnen Groningen in het provincie huis, op dingsdag
+ den 26 Maart 1782--
+
+ was getekent:
+
+ T. VAN HOORN, G. LEWE,
+ L. A. TRIP, T. JARGES,
+ I. H. KEISER, S. I. NIEHOFF,
+ P. LAMAN, F. FIDDENS, en
+ I. A. ENGELHARD.
+
+ Hebben de heeren Staten van Stad en Lande, zich met het
+ uitgebragte rapport geconformeert en de heeren ministers
+ geauthoriseert, hier van extract naa der zaaken omstandigheid
+ geconcipieert, te verzenden; zonder resumtie aftewachten.
+
+ _____
+
+_Extract uit het Register der resolutien van de Heeren Staten der
+provincie Gelderland van 1782-1783._
+
+ Mercurii den 17 April 1782.
+
+ Was ter vergaderinge ingekomen en aan gedeputeerden en
+ hoofdsteden copielijk medegedeeld.
+
+ 1.
+
+ Een missive van de gecommitteerdens ter generaliteit van den 8
+ Maart, hebbende tot bylage copie van eene bij haar nevens de
+ heeren gedeputeerden van de provincien van Zeeland, van Utrecht
+ en van Stad en Lande overgenomene resolutie van de heeren Staten
+ van de provincie van Friesland op den 5 daar bevorens ter tafele
+ van Haar Hoog Mogende geexhibeerd, waar bij de gecommitteerdens
+ van welgemelte provincie ter generaliteit worden gelast, het ter
+ vergadering van Haar Hoog Mogende daar heenen te dirigereen, dat,
+ in consideratie der redenen in voorschreeve resolutie vervat, de
+ heer Adams, met ten eersten als minister van het congres van
+ Noord-America, bij de republicq werde geadmitteerd, van welke
+ missive en bijlage op den 9 Maart de afschriften aan
+ gedeputeerden en hoofdsteden waaren ingezonden.
+
+ 2.
+
+ DAT 'T HOF ENZ.
+
+ Op welke voorschreve poincten voor zoo verre daar op niet mogte
+ geresolveerd zijn, welgemelde raaden verzogten, dat Haar Edele
+ Mogende zoodane resolutien zouden gelieven te neemen als na
+ derselver hooge wijsheid zouden oordeelen en vermeenen te
+ behooren.
+
+ Ter vergaderinge voorgebragt en gelesen zijnde het versoek (p. 071)
+ van den heer Adams, om uit naam van de Vereenigde Staten
+ van Noord-America, zijne brieven van credentie aan Hun Hoog
+ Mogende te overhandigen, mitsgaders het nader adres ten dien
+ einde, met versoek van een cathegorisch antwoord door denzelven
+ gedaan en breder in de notulen van Hun Hoog Mogende van den 4 May
+ 1781 en 9 January 1782, vermeld, als mede de resolutie van de
+ heeren Staten van de ses andere provincien, ter vergadering van
+ Hun Hoog Mogende successivelyk ingebragt, alle tendeerende tot
+ het admitteeren van den heer Adams, als afgesant van de
+ Vereenigde Staten van Noord-America, bij dese republicq.
+
+ Hebben Haar Edele Mogende na gehoudene deliberatie, goedgevonden
+ de gecommitteerdens van wegens dese provincie ter generaliteit te
+ authoriseeren, gelijk geauctoriseert worden bij dezen, on zig
+ namens deze provincie met de resolutie der heeren Staten van
+ Holland en Westfriesland te conformeeren en dienvolgens te
+ consenteeren dat de heer Adams, als gezant van de Vereenigde
+ Staten van Noord-America bij deze republicq werde erkend en
+ geadmitteerd.
+
+ Zullende oversulx extract dezes aan welgemelte gecommitteerdens
+ worden toegesonden, om daar van ten spoedigsten ter vergadering
+ van Hun Hoog Mogende de vereischte opening te doen.
+
+ _____
+
+_Extract uit het Register der resolutien van de Hoog Mogende Heeren
+Staten Generaal der Vereenigde Provincien van den jare 1782. 1 deel._
+
+ Veneris den 19 April 1782.
+
+ Bij resumtie gedelibereerd sijnde op het adres en nader adres van
+ den heer Adams, den 4 Mey, 1781 en 9 January deezes jaars aan den
+ heer ter vergadering van Haar Hoog Mogende praesideerende, gedaan,
+ om uit naem der Vereenigde Staten van Noord-America, zijne brieven
+ van credentie aan Haar Hoog Mogende te overhandigen, en bij welk
+ nader adres, gem. heer Adams, een cathegorisch antwoord heeft
+ versogt, om daer van aan zijne principalen kennis te kunnen
+ geeven.
+
+ Is goedgevonden en verstaan, dat de heer Adams als afgezant van
+ de Vereenigde Staten van Noord-America, bij Haar Hoog Mogende zal
+ worden geadmitteert en erkent, gelijk deselve geadmitteert en
+ erkend word bij deezen.
+
+ De heeren gedeputeerden van de provincien van Zeeland en Utrecht
+ hebben geinhaereert de resolutien van de heeren Staten hunne
+ principalen op het voorn subject ter vergadering van Haar Hoog
+ Mogende ingebragt.
+
+ _____
+
+_Extract uit het Register der resolutien van de Hoog Mogende Heeren
+Staten Generaal der Vereenigde Nederlanden van den jare 1782. 1 deel._
+
+ Lunae den 22 April 1782.
+
+ De heer Boreel, in de voorleeden week ter vergaderinge
+ gepraesideert hebbende heeft aan Haar Hoog Mogende voorgedragen
+ en bekend gemaakt dat den heer John Adams, afgezant van de (p. 072)
+ Vereenigde Staten van America, voorleeden saturdag bij hem was
+ geweest en aan hem overgeleevert hadde een missive van de
+ vergadering van 't Congres, geschreeven te Philadelphia den 1
+ January 1781, houdende creditif op gemelde heer Adams, om in
+ qualitiet als hunnen minister plenipotentiars bij Haar Hoog
+ Mogende te resideeren.
+
+ Waarop gedelibereerd sijnde, is goedgevonden en verstaan mits
+ deezen te verklaaren dat gemelde heer Adams aan Haar Hoog Mogende
+ aangenaam is en dat deselve in de qualitiet van minister
+ plenipotentiaris sal worden erkent en dat aan dezelve audientie
+ sal worden verleent of commissarissen toegevoegt zullen worden,
+ als hij die zal komen te versoeken.
+
+ En zal hier van aan geme. heer Adams door den agent van der Burch
+ van Spieringshoek, kennise worden gegeeven.
+
+ _____
+
+_John Adams to Robert R. Livingston._
+
+ To The Hague, April 22d, 1782.
+ Robert R. LIVINGSTON.
+
+ Sir: On the 22d of April I was introduced, by the Chamberlain, to
+ His Most Serene Highness, the Prince of Orange.
+
+ Knowing that His Highness spoke English, I asked his permission
+ to speak to him in that language, to which he answered, smiling,
+ "if you please, Sir." Although French is the language of the
+ Court, he seemed to be pleased, and to receive as a compliment my
+ request to speak to him in English.
+
+ I told him I was happy to have the honour of presenting the
+ respects of the United States of America, and a letter of
+ credence from them to His Most Serene Highness, and to assure him
+ of the profound veneration in which the House of Orange had been
+ held in America even from its first settlement, and that I should
+ be happier still to be the instrument of further cementing the
+ new connexions between two nations professing the same religion,
+ animated by the same spirit of liberty, and having reciprocal
+ interests, both political and commercial, so extensive and so
+ important; and that, in the faithful and diligent discharge of
+ the duties of my mission, I flattered myself with hopes of the
+ approbation of His Most Serene Highness.
+
+ His Highness received the letter of credence, which he opened and
+ read. The answer that he made to me was in a voice so low and so
+ indistinctly pronounced that I comprehended only the conclusion
+ of it, which was that "he had made no difficulty against my
+ reception." He then fell into familiar conversation with me, and
+ asked me many questions about indifferent things, as is the
+ custom of Princes and Princesses upon such occasions. How long I
+ had been in Europe? How long I had been in this country? Whether
+ I had purchased a house at the Hague? Whether I had not lived
+ some time at Leyden? How long I had lived at Amsterdam? How I
+ liked the country? &c.
+
+ This conference passed in the Prince's chamber of audience, with
+ his Highness alone. I had waited some time in the antechamber, as
+ the Duc de la Vauguyon was in conference with the Prince. (p. 073)
+ The Duke, on his return through the antechamber, meeting me
+ unexpectedly, presented me his hand with an air of cordiality
+ which was remarked by every courtier, and had a very good effect.
+
+ The Prince has since said to the Duc de la Vauguyon that he was
+ obliged to me for not having pressed him upon the affair of my
+ reception at the beginning. He had reason; for if I had, and he
+ had said or done anything offensive to the United States or
+ disagreeable to me, it would now be remembered, much to the
+ disadvantage of the Court.
+
+ I have the honour to be, Sir,
+ Your most obedient and most humble servant,
+ John ADAMS.
+
+
+
+
+No. 13. (p. 074)
+PLATE XIII.
+
+
+_October 8, 1782._
+
+ Favstissimo foedere jvnctae. die VII Octob. MDCCLXXXII. [Rx].
+ Justitiam et non temnere divos.
+
+TREATY OF AMITY AND COMMERCE BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND
+THE UNITED NETHERLANDS.
+
+FAVSTISSIMO FOEDERE JVNCTAE. DIE VII OCTOB.[49] (_Octobris_)
+MDCCLXXXII. (_United by a most auspicious alliance, October 7, 1782._)
+Fame seated on the clouds is blowing a trumpet, held in her left hand;
+in her right she holds two shields: one bearing the arms of the United
+Netherlands, the other studded with thirteen stars (_the thirteen
+original United States_); above the two shields is a wreath, and
+beneath them are the lion's skin and the club of Hercules.
+
+ [Footnote 49: The date should be October 8, not 7,
+ as will be seen by the official documents below.]
+
+JUSTITIAM ET NON TEMNERE DIVOS.[50] (_Learn justice, and not to
+despise the gods._) On the face of a pyramid, the base of which is
+adorned with flowers, is placed the crowned shield of Amsterdam,
+resting on fasces; beneath, on a scroll, the inscription: PRODROMUS
+(_a forerunner_). A flying Mercury places a wreath on the shield;
+below on the right, an anchor, a basket of flowers, and a cock crowing
+(_France_); in the background, the sea covered with ships. Exergue: S.
+P. Q. AMST. SACRVM. (_Senatui populoque Amstelodamensi sacrum:
+Dedicated to the Senate and people of Amsterdam_). On the platform, I.
+G. HOLTZHEY FEC. (_fecit_).[51]
+
+ [Footnote 50: Virgil, _AEneid_, Book VI, 620. This
+ mutilated quotation is scarcely intelligible. The
+ entire verse is: "DISCITE JUSTITIAM, MONITI, ET NON
+ TEMNERE DIVOS." (_Admonished [by me], learn justice
+ and not to despise the gods_).]
+
+ [Footnote 51: SEE INTRODUCTION, page x.]
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 075)
+
+_Treaty of Amity and Commerce between their High Mightinesses the
+States-General of the United Netherlands and the United States of
+America, to wit: New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and
+Providence Plantations, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey,
+Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South
+Carolina, and Georgia. Concluded October 8, 1782; ratified January 22,
+1783._
+
+ Their High Mightinesses the States-General of the United
+ Netherlands and the United States of America, to wit: New
+ Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Providence
+ Plantations, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania,
+ Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and
+ Georgia, desiring to ascertain, in a permanent and equitable
+ manner, the rules to be observed relative to the commerce and
+ correspondence which they intend to establish between their
+ respective States, countries and inhabitants, have judged that
+ the said end cannot be better obtained than by establishing the
+ most perfect equality and reciprocity for the basis of their
+ agreement, and by avoiding all those burdensome preferences which
+ are usually the sources of debate, embarrassment, and discontent;
+ by leaving also each party at liberty to make, respecting
+ commerce and navigation, such ulterior regulations as it shall
+ find most convenient to itself; and by founding the advantages of
+ commerce solely upon reciprocal utility and the just rules of
+ free intercourse; reserving withal to each party the liberty of
+ admitting at its pleasure other nations to a participation of the
+ same advantages.
+
+ On these principles their said High Mightinesses the
+ States-General of the United Netherlands have named for their
+ Plenipotentiaries, from the midst of their assembly, Messieurs
+ their Deputies for the Foreign Affairs; and the said United
+ States of America, on their part, have furnished with full powers
+ Mr. John Adams, late Commissioner of the United States of America
+ at the Court of Versailles, heretofore Delegate in Congress from
+ the State of Massachusetts Bay, and Chief Justice of the said
+ State, who have agreed and concluded as follows, to wit:
+
+
+ ARTICLE I.
+
+ There shall be a firm, inviolable, and universal peace and
+ sincere friendship between their High Mightinesses, the Lords,
+ the States-General of the United Netherlands, and the United
+ States of America, and between the subjects and inhabitants of
+ the said parties, and between the countries, islands, cities, and
+ places situated under the jurisdiction of the said United
+ Netherlands and the said United States of America, their subjects
+ and inhabitants, of every degree, without exception of persons or
+ places.
+
+
+ ARTICLE II.
+
+ The subjects of the said States-General of the United Netherlands
+ shall pay in the ports, havens, roads, countries, islands,
+ cities, or places of the United States of America, or any of
+ them, no other nor greater duties or imposts, of whatever nature
+ or denomination they may be, than those which the nations the (p. 076)
+ most favoured are or shall be obliged to pay; and they shall
+ enjoy all the rights, liberties, privileges immunities, and
+ exemptions in trade, navigation, and commerce which the said
+ nations do or shall enjoy, whether in passing from one port to
+ another in the said States, or in going from any of those ports
+ to any foreign port of the world, or from any foreign port of the
+ world to any of those ports.
+
+
+ ARTICLE III.
+
+ The subjects and inhabitants of the said United States of America
+ shall pay in the ports, havens, roads, countries, islands, cities
+ or places of the said United Netherlands, or any of them, no
+ other nor greater duties or imposts, of whatever nature or
+ denomination they may be, than those which the nations the most
+ favoured are or shall be obliged to pay; and they shall enjoy all
+ the rights, liberties, privileges, immunities and exemptions in
+ trade, navigation and commerce, which the said nations do or
+ shall enjoy, whether in passing from one port to another in the
+ said States, or from any one toward any one of those ports from
+ or to any foreign port of the world. And the United States of
+ America, with their subjects and inhabitants, shall leave to
+ those of their High Mightinesses the peaceable enjoyment of their
+ rights in the countries, islands and seas in the East and West
+ Indies, without any hindrance or molestation.
+
+
+ ARTICLE IV.
+
+ There shall be an entire and perfect liberty of conscience
+ allowed to the subjects and inhabitants of each party, and to
+ their families; and no one shall be molested in regard to his
+ worship, provided he submits, as to the public demonstration of
+ it, to the laws of the country: There shall be given, moreover,
+ liberty, when any subjects or inhabitants of either party shall
+ die in the territory of the other, to bury them in the usual
+ burying-places, or in decent and convenient grounds to be
+ appointed for that purpose, as occasion shall require; and the
+ dead bodies of those who are buried shall not in any wise be
+ molested. And the two contracting parties shall provide, each one
+ in his jurisdiction, that their respective subjects and
+ inhabitants may henceforward obtain the requisite certificates in
+ cases of deaths in which they shall be interested.
+
+
+ ARTICLE V.
+
+ Their High Mightinesses the States-General of the United
+ Netherlands and the United States of America shall endeavour, by
+ all the means in their power, to defend and protect all vessels
+ and other effects, belonging to their subjects and inhabitants,
+ respectively, or to any of them, in their ports, roads, havens,
+ internal seas, passes, rivers, and as far as their jurisdiction
+ extends at sea, and to recover, and cause to be restored to the
+ true proprietors, their agents, or attorneys, all such vessels
+ and effects, which shall be taken under their jurisdiction: And
+ their vessels of war and convoys, in cases when they may have a
+ common enemy, shall take under their protection all the vessels
+ belonging to the subjects and inhabitants of either party, which
+ shall not be laden with contraband goods, according to the
+ description which shall be made of them hereafter, for places
+ with which one of the parties is in peace and the other at (p. 077)
+ war, nor destined for any place blockaded, and which shall hold
+ the same course or follow the same route; and they shall defend
+ such vessels as long as they shall hold the same course or follow
+ the same route, against all attacks, force and violence of the
+ common enemy, in the same manner as they ought to protect and
+ defend the vessels belonging to their own respective subjects.
+
+
+ ARTICLE VI.
+
+ The subjects of the contracting parties may, on one side and on
+ the other, in the respective countries and States, dispose of
+ their effects by testament, donation or otherwise; and their
+ heirs, subjects of one of the parties, and residing in the
+ country of the other, or elsewhere, shall receive such
+ successions, even _ab intestato_, whether in person or by their
+ attorney or substitute, even although they shall not have
+ obtained letters of naturalization, without having the effects of
+ such commission tested under pretext of any rights or
+ prerogatives of any province, city or private person. And if the
+ heirs to whom such successions may have fallen shall be minors,
+ the tutors or curators established by the judge domiciliary of
+ the minors may govern, direct, administer, sell and alienate the
+ effects fallen to the said minors by inheritance, and, in
+ general, in relation to the said successions and effects, use all
+ the rights and fulfill all the functions which belong, by the
+ disposition of the laws, to guardians, tutors and curators:
+ provided, nevertheless, that this disposition cannot take place
+ but in cases where the testator shall not have named guardians,
+ tutors or curators by testament, codicil or other legal
+ instrument.
+
+
+ ARTICLE VII.
+
+ It shall be lawful and free for the subjects of each party to
+ employ such advocates, attorneys, notaries, solicitors or factors
+ as they shall judge proper.
+
+
+ ARTICLE VIII.
+
+ Merchants, masters and owners of ships, mariners, men of all
+ kinds, ships and vessels, and all merchandizes and goods in
+ general, and effects of one of the confederates, or of the
+ subjects thereof, shall not be seized or detained in any of the
+ countries, lands, islands, cities, places, ports, shores, or
+ dominions whatsoever of the other confederate, for any military
+ expedition, publick or private use of any one, by arrests,
+ violence, or any colour thereof; much less shall it be permitted
+ to the subjects of either party to take or extort by force
+ anything from the subjects of the other party, without the
+ consent of the owner; which, however, is not to be understood of
+ seizures, detentions, and arrests which shall be made by the
+ command and authority of justice, and by the ordinary methods, on
+ account of debts or crimes, in respect whereof the proceedings
+ must be by way of law, according to the forms of justice.
+
+
+ ARTICLE IX.
+
+ It is further agreed and concluded that it shall be wholly free
+ for all merchants, commanders of ships, and other subjects and
+ inhabitants of the contracting parties, in every place (p. 078)
+ subjected to the jurisdiction of the two powers respectively, to
+ manage themselves their own business; and moreover as to the use
+ of interpreters or brokers, as also in relation to the loading or
+ unloading of their vessels, and everything which has relation
+ thereto, they shall be, on one side, and on the other, considered
+ and treated upon the footing of natural subjects, or, at least,
+ upon an equality with the most favoured nation.
+
+
+ ARTICLE X.
+
+ The merchant ships of either of the parties, coming from the port
+ of an enemy, or from their own, or a neutral port, may navigate
+ freely towards any port of an enemy of the other ally: they shall
+ be, nevertheless, held, whenever it shall be required, to
+ exhibit, as well upon the high seas as in the ports, their
+ sea-letters and other documents described in the twenty-fifth
+ article, stating expressly that their effects are not of the
+ number of those which are prohibited as contraband; and not
+ having any contraband goods for an enemy's port, they may freely,
+ and without hindrance, pursue their voyage towards the port of an
+ enemy. Nevertheless, it shall not be required to examine the
+ papers of vessels convoyed by vessels of war, but credence shall
+ be given to the word of the officer who shall conduct the convoy.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XI.
+
+ If, by exhibiting the sea-letters and other documents described
+ more particularly in the twenty-fifth article of this treaty, the
+ other party shall discover there are any of those sorts of goods
+ which are declared prohibited and contraband, and that they are
+ consigned for a port under the obedience of his enemy, it shall
+ not be lawful to break up the hatches of such ship, nor to open
+ any chests, coffers, packs, casks, or other vessels found
+ therein, or to remove the smallest parcels of her goods, whether
+ the said vessel belongs to the subjects of their High
+ Mightinesses the States-General of the United Netherlands or to
+ the subjects or inhabitants of the said United States of America,
+ unless the lading be brought on shore, in presence of the
+ officers of the Court of Admiralty, and an inventory thereof
+ made; but there shall be no allowance to sell, exchange or
+ alienate the same until after that due and lawful process shall
+ have been had against such prohibited goods of contraband, and
+ the Court of Admiralty, by a sentence pronounced, shall have
+ confiscated the same, saving always as well the ship itself as
+ any other goods found therein, which are to be esteemed free, and
+ may not be detained on pretence of their being infected by the
+ prohibited goods, much less shall they be confiscated as lawful
+ prize: But, on the contrary, when, by the visitation at land, it
+ shall be found that there are no contraband goods in the vessel,
+ and it shall not appear by the papers that he who has taken and
+ carried in the vessel has been able to discover any there, he
+ ought to be condemned in all the charges, damages and interests
+ of them, which he shall have caused, both to the owners of
+ vessels and to the owners and freighters of cargoes with which
+ they shall be loaded, by his temerity in taking and carrying them
+ in; declaring most expressly the free vessels shall assure the
+ liberty of the effects with which they shall be loaded, and that
+ this liberty shall extend itself equally to the persons who shall
+ be found in a free vessel, who may not be taken out of her,
+ unless they are military men actually in the service of an enemy.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XII. (p. 079)
+
+ On the contrary, it is agreed that whatever shall be found to be
+ taken by the subjects and inhabitants of either party, or any
+ ship belonging to the enemies of the other, or to their subjects,
+ although it be not comprehended under the sort of prohibited
+ goods, the whole may be confiscated in the same manner as if it
+ belonged to the enemy; except, nevertheless, such effects and
+ merchandizes as were put on board such vessel before the
+ declaration of war, or in the space of six months after it, which
+ effects shall not be, in any manner, subject to confiscation, but
+ shall be faithfully and without delay restored in nature to the
+ owners who shall claim them, or cause them to be claimed, before
+ the confiscation and sale, as also their proceeds, if the claim
+ could not be made, but in the space of eight months after the
+ sale, which ought to be publick: Provided, nevertheless, that if
+ the said merchandizes are contraband, it shall by no means be
+ lawful to transport them afterwards to any port belonging to
+ enemies.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XIII.
+
+ And that more effectual care may be taken for the security of
+ subjects and people of either party, that they do not suffer
+ molestation from the vessels of war or privateers of the other
+ party, it shall be forbidden to all commanders of vessels of war
+ and other armed vessels of the said States-General of the United
+ Netherlands and the said United States of America, as well as to
+ all their officers, subjects and people, to give any offence or
+ do any damage to those of the other party; and if they act to the
+ contrary they shall be, upon the first complaint which shall be
+ made of it, being found guilty after a just examination, punished
+ by their proper judges, and, moreover, obliged to make
+ satisfaction for all damages and interests thereof, by
+ reparation, under pain and obligation of their persons and goods.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XIV.
+
+ For further determining of what has been said, all captains of
+ privateers or fitters-out of vessels armed for war, under
+ commission and on account of private persons, shall be held,
+ before their departure, to give sufficient caution, before
+ competent judges, either to be entirely responsible for the
+ malversations which they may commit in their cruizes or voyages,
+ as well as for the contraventions of their captains and officers
+ against the present treaty, and against the ordinances and edicts
+ which shall be published in consequence of and conformity to it,
+ under pain of forfeiture and nullity of the said commissions.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XV.
+
+ All vessels and merchandizes, of whatsoever nature, which shall
+ be rescued out of the hands of any pirates or robbers, navigating
+ the high seas without requisite commissions, shall be brought
+ into some port of one of the two States, and deposited in the
+ hands of the officers of that port, in order to be restored
+ entire to the true proprietor as soon as due and sufficient
+ proofs shall be made concerning the property thereof.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XVI.
+
+ If any ships or vessels belonging to either of the parties, their
+ subjects, or people, shall, within the coasts or dominions of the
+ other, stick upon the sands, or be wrecked, or suffer any (p. 080)
+ other sea damage, all friendly assistance and relief shall be
+ given to the persons shipwrecked, or such as shall be in danger
+ thereof; and the vessels, effects and merchandizes, or the part
+ of them which shall have been saved or the proceeds of them, if,
+ being perishable, they shall have been sold, being claimed within
+ a year and a day by the masters or owners, or their agents or
+ attorneys, shall be restored, paying only the reasonable charges,
+ and that which must be paid, in the same case, for the salvage,
+ by the proper subjects of the country: there shall also be
+ delivered them safe conducts or passports for their free and safe
+ passage from thence, and to return, each one to his own country.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XVII.
+
+ In case the subjects or people of either party, with their
+ shipping, whether publick and of war, or private and of
+ merchants, be forced, through stress of weather, pursuit of
+ pirates or enemies, or any other urgent necessity for seeking of
+ shelter and harbor, to retract and enter into any of the rivers,
+ creeks, bays, ports, roads or shores belonging to the other
+ party, they shall be received with all humanity and kindness, and
+ enjoy all friendly protection and help, and they shall be
+ permitted to refresh and provide themselves, at reasonable rates,
+ with victuals, and all things needful for the sustenance of their
+ persons or reparation of their ships; and they shall no ways be
+ detained or hindered from returning out of the said ports or
+ roads, but may remove and depart when and whither they please,
+ without any let or hindrance.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XVIII.
+
+ For the better promoting of commerce on both sides, it is agreed
+ that, if a war should break out between their High Mightinesses
+ the States-General of the United Netherlands and the United
+ States of America, there shall always be granted to the subjects
+ on each side the term of nine months after the date of the
+ rupture, or the proclamation of war, to the end that they may
+ retire, with their effects, and transport them where they please,
+ which it shall be lawful for them to do, as well as to sell or
+ transport their effects and goods, in all freedom and without any
+ hindrance, and without being able to proceed, during the said
+ term of nine months, to any arrests of their effects, much less
+ of their persons; on the contrary, there shall be given them, for
+ their vessels and their effects, which they could carry away,
+ passports and safe conducts for the nearest ports of their
+ respective countries, and for the time necessary for the voyage.
+ And no prize made at sea shall be adjudged lawful, at least if
+ the declaration of war was not or could not be known in the last
+ port which the vessel taken has quitted; but for whatever may
+ have been taken from the subjects and inhabitants of either
+ party, and for the offences which may have been given them, in
+ the interval of the said terms, a complete satisfaction shall be
+ given them.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XIX.
+
+ No subject of their High Mightinesses the States-General of the
+ United Netherlands shall apply for or take any commission or
+ letters of marque for arming any ship or ships to act as
+ privateers against the said United States of America, or any of
+ them, or the subjects and inhabitants of the said United States,
+ or any of them, or against the property of the inhabitants (p. 081)
+ of any of them, from any Prince or State with which the said
+ United States of America may happen to be at war: nor shall any
+ subject or inhabitant of the said United States of America, or
+ any of them, apply for or take any commission or letters of
+ marque for arming any ship or ships to act as privateers against
+ the High and Mighty Lords the States-General of the United
+ Netherlands, or against the subjects of their High Mightinesses,
+ or any of them, or against the property of any one of them, from
+ any Prince or State with which their High Mightinesses may be at
+ war: And if any person of either nation shall take such
+ commission or letters of marque, he shall be punished as a
+ pirate.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XX.
+
+ If the vessels of the subjects or inhabitants of one of the
+ parties come upon any coast belonging to either of the said
+ allies, but not willing to enter into port, or being entered into
+ port and not willing to unload their cargoes or break bulk, or
+ take in any cargo, they shall not be obliged to pay, neither for
+ the vessels nor for the cargoes, at least if there is not just
+ cause to presume that they carry to an enemy merchandizes of
+ contraband.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XXI.
+
+ The two contracting parties grant to each other, mutually, the
+ liberty of having, each in the ports of the other, consuls,
+ vice-consuls, agents, and commissaries, of their own appointing,
+ whose functions shall be regulated by particular agreement,
+ whenever either party chooses to make such appointments.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XXII.
+
+ This treaty shall not be understood in any manner to derogate
+ from the ninth, tenth, nineteenth, and twenty-fourth articles of
+ the treaty with France, as they were numbered in the same treaty,
+ concluded the sixth of February, 1778, and which make the
+ articles ninth, tenth, seventeenth, and twenty-second of the
+ treaty of commerce now subsisting between the United States of
+ America and the Crown of France; nor shall it hinder His Catholic
+ Majesty from according to that treaty, and enjoying the
+ advantages of said four articles.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XXIII.
+
+ If at any time the United States of America shall judge necessary
+ to commence negotiations with the King or Emperor of Morocco and
+ Fez, and with the Regencies of Algiers, Tunis, or Tripoli, or
+ with any of them, to obtain passports for the security of their
+ navigation in the Mediterranean Sea, their High Mightinesses
+ promise that upon the requisition which the United States of
+ America shall make of it, they will second such negotiations in
+ the most favourable manner, by means of their Consuls residing
+ near the said King, Emperor, and Regencies.
+
+
+ _Contraband._
+
+ ARTICLE XXIV.
+
+ The liberty of navigation and commerce shall extend to all sorts
+ of merchandizes, excepting only those which are distinguished
+ under the name of contraband, or merchandizes prohibited; (p. 082)
+ and under this denomination of contraband and merchandizes
+ prohibited, shall be comprehended only warlike stores and arms,
+ as mortars, artillery, with their artifices and appurtenances,
+ fusils, pistols, bombs, grenades, gunpowder, saltpetre, sulphur,
+ match, bullets and balls, pikes, sabres, lances, halberts,
+ casques, cuirasses, and other sorts of arms, as also soldiers,
+ horses, saddles, and furniture for horses; all other effects and
+ merchandizes, not before specified expressly, and even all sorts
+ of naval matters, however proper they may be for the construction
+ and equipment of vessels of war, or for the manufacture of one or
+ another sort of machines of war, by land or sea, shall not be
+ judged contraband, neither by the letter, nor according to any
+ pretended interpretation whatever, ought they or can they be
+ comprehended under the notion of effects prohibited or
+ contraband: so that all effects and merchandizes, which are not
+ expressly before named, may, without any exception, and in
+ perfect liberty, be transported by the subjects and inhabitants
+ of both allies, from and to places belonging to the enemy;
+ excepting only the places which at the time shall be besieged,
+ blocked, or invested; and those places only shall be held for
+ such which are surrounded nearly by some of the belligerent
+ powers.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XXV.
+
+ To the end that all dissention and quarrel may be avoided and
+ prevented, it has been agreed, that in case that one of the two
+ parties happens to be at war, the vessels belonging to the
+ subjects or inhabitants of the other ally shall be provided with
+ sea letters or passports, expressing the name, the property, and
+ the burthen of the vessel, as also the name of abode of the
+ master, or commander of the said vessel, to the end that thereby
+ it may appear that the vessel really and truly belongs to the
+ subjects or inhabitants of one of the parties; which passports
+ shall be drawn and distributed, according to the form annexed to
+ this treaty; each time that the vessel shall return, she should
+ have such her passport renewed, or at least they ought not to be
+ of more ancient date than two years, before the vessel has been
+ returned to her own country.
+
+ It has also been agreed that such vessels, being loaded, ought to
+ be provided not only with the said passports or sea letters, but
+ also with a general passport, or with particular passports or
+ manifests, or other publick documents, which are ordinarily given
+ to vessels outward bound in the ports from whence the vessels
+ have set sail in the last place, containing a specification of
+ the cargo, of the place from whence the vessel departed, and of
+ that of her destination, or, instead of all these, with
+ certificates from the magistrates or governors of cities, places
+ and colonies from whence the vessel came, given in the usual
+ form, to the end that it may be known whether there are any
+ effects prohibited or contraband, on board the vessels, and
+ whether they are destined to be carried to an enemy's country or
+ not; and in case any one judges proper to express in the said
+ documents the persons to whom the effects on board belong, he may
+ do it freely, without, however, being bound to do it; and the
+ omission of such expression cannot and ought not to cause a
+ confiscation.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XXVI.
+
+ If the vessels of the said subjects or inhabitants of either of
+ the parties, sailing along the coasts or on the high seas, are
+ met by a vessel of war, or privateer, or other armed vessel (p. 083)
+ of the other party, the said vessels of war, privateers, or
+ armed vessels, for avoiding all disorder, shall remain without
+ the reach of cannon, but may send their boats on board the
+ merchant vessel, which they shall meet in this manner, upon which
+ they may not pass more than two or three men, to whom the master
+ or commander shall exhibit his passport, containing the property
+ of the vessel, according to the form annexed to this treaty: And
+ the vessel, after having exhibited such a passport, sea letter,
+ and other documents, shall be free to continue her voyage, so
+ that it shall not be lawful to molest her, or search her in any
+ manner, nor give her chase, nor to force her to alter her course.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XXVII.
+
+ It shall be lawful for merchants, captains, and commanders of
+ vessels, whether publick and of war, or private and of merchants,
+ belonging to the said United States of America, or any of them,
+ or to their subjects and inhabitants, to take freely into their
+ service, and receive on board of their vessels, in any port or
+ place in the jurisdiction of their High Mightinesses aforesaid,
+ seamen or others, natives or inhabitants of any of the said
+ States, upon such conditions as they shall agree on, without
+ being submitted for this to any fine, penalty, punishment,
+ process, or reprehension whatsoever.
+
+ And reciprocally, all merchants, captains, and commanders,
+ belonging to the said United Netherlands, shall enjoy, in all the
+ ports and places under the obedience of the said United States of
+ America, the same privilege of engaging and receiving seamen or
+ others, natives or inhabitants of any country of the domination
+ of the said States-General: Provided, that neither on one side
+ nor the other, they may not take into their service such of their
+ countrymen who have already engaged in the service of the other
+ party contracting, whether in war or trade, and whether they meet
+ them by land or sea; at least if the captains or masters under
+ the command of whom such persons may be found, will not of his
+ own consent discharge them from their service, upon pain of being
+ otherwise treated and punished as deserters.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XXVIII.
+
+ The affair of the refraction shall be regulated in all equity and
+ justice, by the magistrates of cities respectively, where it
+ shall be judged that there is any room to complain in this
+ respect.
+
+
+ ARTICLE XXIX.
+
+ The present treaty shall be ratified and approved by their High
+ Mightinesses the States-General of the United Netherlands and by
+ the United States of America; and the acts of ratification shall
+ be delivered in good and due form, on one side and on the other,
+ in the space of six months, or sooner if possible, to be computed
+ from the day of the signature.
+
+ In faith of which, we the Deputies and Plenipotentiaries of the
+ Lords the States-General of the United Netherlands, and the
+ Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of America, in
+ virtue of our respective authorities and full powers, have signed
+ the present treaty and apposed thereto the seals of our arms.
+
+ Done at the Hague the eighth of October, one thousand seven (p. 084)
+ hundred and eighty-two.
+
+ John ADAMS. [L.S.]
+ George VAN RANDWYCK. [L.S.]
+ B. V. D. SANTHEUVEL. [L.S.]
+ P. V. BLEISWIJK. [L.S.]
+ W. C. H. VAN LIJNDEN. [L.S.]
+ D. J. VAN HEECKEREN. [L.S.]
+ Joan VAN KUFFELER. [L.S.]
+ F: G: VAN DEDEM, TOT DEN GELDER. [L.S.]
+ H: TJASSENS. [L.S.]
+
+ _____
+
+_Convention between the Lords the States-General of the United
+Netherlands and the United States of America, concerning vessels
+recaptured. Concluded October 8, 1782._
+
+ The Lords the States-General of the United Netherlands and the
+ United States of America, being inclined to establish some
+ uniform principles with relation to prizes made by vessels of
+ war, and commissioned by the two contracting Powers, upon their
+ common enemies, and to vessels of the subjects of either party,
+ captured by the enemy, and recaptured by vessels of war
+ commissioned by either party, have agreed upon the following
+ articles:
+
+
+ ARTICLE I.
+
+ The vessels of either of the two nations recaptured by the
+ privateers of the other, shall be restored to the first
+ proprietor, if such vessels have not been four and twenty hours
+ in the power of the enemy, provided the owner of the vessel
+ recaptured pay therefor one-third of the value of the vessel, as
+ also of that of the cargo, the cannons and apparel, which third
+ shall be valued by agreement, between the parties interested; or,
+ if they cannot agree thereon among themselves, they shall address
+ themselves to the officers of the admiralty of the place where
+ the privateer who has retaken the vessel shall have conducted
+ her.
+
+
+ ARTICLE II.
+
+ If the vessel recaptured has been more than twenty-four hours in
+ the power of the enemy, she shall belong entirely to the
+ privateer who has retaken her.
+
+
+ ARTICLE III.
+
+ In case a vessel shall have been recaptured by a vessel of war
+ belonging to the States-General of the United Netherlands, or to
+ the United States of America, she shall be restored to the first
+ owner, he paying a thirtieth part of the value of the ship, her
+ cargo, cannons and apparel, if she has been recaptured in the
+ interval of twenty-four hours, and the tenth part if she has been
+ recaptured after the twenty-four hours, which sums shall be (p. 085)
+ distributed in form of gratifications to the crews of the vessels
+ which have retaken her. The valuation of the said thirtieth parts
+ and tenth parts shall be regulated according to the tenor of the
+ first article of the present convention.
+
+
+ ARTICLE IV.
+
+ The restitution of prizes, whether they may have been retaken by
+ vessels of war or by privateers, in the mean time and until
+ requisite and sufficient proofs can be given of the property of
+ vessels recaptured, shall be admitted in a reasonable time, under
+ sufficient sureties for the observation of the aforesaid
+ articles.
+
+
+ ARTICLE V.
+
+ The vessels of war and privateers of one and of the other of the
+ two nations, shall be reciprocally, both in Europe and in the
+ other parts of the world, admitted in the respective ports of
+ each with their prizes, which may be unloaded and sold according
+ to the formalities used in the State where the prize shall have
+ been conducted, as far as may be consistent with the 22d article
+ of the treaty of commerce: Provided, always, that the legality of
+ prizes by the vessels of the Low Countries shall be decided
+ conformably to the laws and regulations established in the United
+ Netherlands; as, likewise, that of prizes made by American
+ vessels, shall be judged according to the laws and regulations
+ determined by the United States of America.
+
+
+ ARTICLE VI.
+
+ Moreover, it shall be free for the States-General of the United
+ Netherlands, as well as for the United States of America, to make
+ such regulations as they may judge necessary, relative to the
+ conduct which their respective vessels and privateers ought to
+ hold in relation to the vessels which they shall have taken and
+ conducted into the ports of the two powers.
+
+ In faith of which, We, the Deputies and Plenipotentiaries of the
+ Lords the States-General of the United Netherlands, and Minister
+ Plenipotentiary of the United States of America, have, in virtue
+ of our respective authorities and full powers, signed these
+ presents, and confirmed the same with the seals of our arms.
+
+ Done at the Hague the eighth of October, one thousand seven
+ hundred and eighty-two.
+
+ John ADAMS. [L.S.]
+ George VAN RANDWYCK. [L.S.]
+ B. V. D. SANTHEUVEL. [L.S.]
+ P. V. BLEISWIJK. [L.S.]
+ W. C. H. VAN LIJNDEN. [L.S.]
+ D. J. VAN HEECKEREN. [L.S.]
+ Joan VAN KUFFELER. [L.S.]
+ F: G: VAN DEDEM, TOT DEN GELDER. [L.S.]
+ H: TJASSENS. [L.S.]
+
+
+
+No. 14. (p. 086)
+PLATE XIV.
+
+
+_1782._
+
+ Libertas Americana. [Rx]. Non sine diis animosus infans.
+
+LIBERTAS AMERICANA.
+
+[_Surrender of the British Armies at Saratoga and at Yorktown._]
+
+LIBERTAS AMERICANA. (_American liberty._) The head of a beautiful
+maiden, facing the left, with dishevelled hair floating in the wind,
+and with the rod of liberty surmounted by the Phrygian cap on her
+right shoulder. Exergue: 4 JUIL. (_sic_) 1776. (_4 Julii, 1776: July
+4, 1776._) On edge of bust, DUPRE.
+
+NON SINE DIIS ANIMOSUS INFANS.[52] (_The courageous child was aided by
+the gods._) The infant Hercules (_America_), in his cradle, is
+strangling two serpents, while Minerva (_France_) stands by, helmeted,
+and with spear in her right hand, ready to strike a leopard
+(_England_) whose attacks she wards off with her shield decked with
+the lilies of France. Exergue: 17/19 OCT. 1777/1781. (17/19 _Octobris_
+1777/1781: 17/19 _October_, 1777/1781.)[53] DUPRE. F. (_fecit_).[54]
+
+ [Footnote 52: Horace, Book III, Ode iv, 20.]
+
+ [Footnote 53: Dates of the surrender of the British
+ armies at Saratoga and at Yorktown.]
+
+ [Footnote 54: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xi, and
+ xxii.]
+
+This medal was not voted by Congress, but was ordered by Franklin, in
+commemoration of the surrenders of Lieutenant-General Burgoyne and of
+General Lord Cornwallis. As the official reports of the first of these
+events have already been given under No. 2, page 9, I give here only
+the documents relating to the surrender of Lord Cornwallis, at
+Yorktown.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 087)
+
+_General Washington to the President of Congress._
+
+ To His Excellency Headquarters, near York,
+ THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. October 19, 1781.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour to inform Congress that a reduction of the
+ British army, under the command of Lord Cornwallis, is most
+ happily effected. The unremitted ardour which actuated every
+ officer and soldier in the combined army on this occasion, has
+ principally led to this important event, at an earlier period
+ than my most sanguine hopes had induced me to expect.
+
+ The singular spirit of emulation, which animated the whole army
+ from the first commencement of our operations, has filled my mind
+ with the highest pleasure and satisfaction, and had given me the
+ highest presages of success.
+
+ On the 17th instant, a letter was received from Lord Cornwallis,
+ proposing a meeting of commissioners to consult on terms for the
+ surrender of the posts of York and Gloucester. This letter (the
+ first that had passed between us) opened a correspondence, a copy
+ of which I do myself the honour to inclose; that correspondence
+ was followed by the definitive capitulation, which was agreed to
+ and signed on the 19th, copy of which is herewith transmitted;
+ and which I hope will meet with the approbation of Congress.
+
+ I should be wanting in the feelings of gratitude did I not
+ mention on this occasion, with the warmest sense of
+ acknowledgment, the very cheerful and able assistance which I
+ have received in the course of our operations from His Excellency
+ the Count de Rochambeau. Nothing could equal this zeal of our
+ allies but the imitating spirit of the American officers, whose
+ ardour would not suffer their exertions to be exceeded.
+
+ The very uncommon degree of duty and fatigue, which the nature of
+ the service required from the officers of engineers and artillery
+ of both armies, obliges me particularly to mention the
+ obligations I am under to the commanding and other officers of
+ those corps.
+
+ I wish it was in my power to express to Congress how much I feel
+ myself indebted to the Count de Grasse, and the officers of the
+ fleet under his command, for the distinguished aid and support
+ which has been afforded by them, between whom and the army the
+ most happy concurrence of sentiments and views have subsisted,
+ and from whom every possible co-operation has been experienced
+ which the most harmonious intercourse could afford.
+
+ Returns of the prisoners, military stores, ordnance, shipping and
+ other matters, I shall do myself the honour to transmit to
+ Congress as soon as they can be collected by the heads of
+ departments to which they belong.
+
+ Colonel Laurens and the Viscount de Noailles, on the part of the
+ combined army, were the gentlemen who acted as commissioners for
+ forming and settling the terms of capitulation and surrender,
+ herewith transmitted, to whom I am particularly obliged for their
+ readiness and attention exhibited on the occasion.
+
+ Colonel Tilghman, one of my aids-de-camp, will have the (p. 088)
+ honour to deliver these despatches to Your Excellency; he will be
+ able to inform you of every minute circumstance which is
+ particularly mentioned in my letter. His merits, which are too
+ well known to need any observations at this time, have gained my
+ particular attention, and I could wish that they may be honoured
+ by the notice of Your Excellency and Congress.
+
+ Your Excellency and Congress will be pleased to accept my
+ congratulations on this happy event, and believe me to be, with
+ the highest respect and esteem,
+
+ Sir, your Excellency's most obedient humble servant,
+ Geo. WASHINGTON.
+
+ P.S. Though I am not possessed of the particular returns, yet I
+ have reason to suppose that the number of prisoners will be
+ between five and six thousand, exclusive of seamen and others.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Washington to the President of Congress._
+
+ To His Excellency Headquarters, near York,
+ THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. October 27, 1781.
+
+ Sir: I do myself the honour to enclose to Your Excellency copies
+ of returns of prisoners, artillery, arms, ordnance, and other
+ stores, surrendered by the enemy in their posts of York and
+ Gloucester, on the 19th instant, which were not completed at the
+ time of my despatches, and but this moment handed to me. A draft
+ of these posts, with the plan of attack and defence, is herewith
+ transmitted; and twenty-four standards, taken at the same time,
+ are ready to be laid before Congress.
+
+ My present despatches being important, I have committed to the
+ care of Colonel Humphreys, one of my aids-de-camp, whom, for his
+ attention, fidelity and good services, I beg leave to recommend
+ to Congress and Your Excellency.
+
+ I have the honour to be,
+ Sir, Your Excellency's most obedient humble servant,
+ Geo. WASHINGTON.
+
+ _____
+
+_Resolutions of Congress Voting Thanks, etc., for the Taking of
+Yorktown._
+
+BY THE UNITED STATES IN CONGRESS ASSEMBLED:
+
+ _Resolved_, That the thanks of the United States, in Congress
+ assembled, be presented to His Excellency General Washington, for
+ the eminent services which he has rendered to the United States,
+ and particularly for the well concerted plan against the (p. 089)
+ British garrisons in York and Gloucester; for the vigour,
+ attention, and military skill with which that plan was executed,
+ and for the wisdom and prudence manifested in the capitulation.
+
+ That the thanks of the United States, in Congress assembled, be
+ presented to His Excellency the Count de Rochambeau, for the
+ cordiality, zeal, judgment, and fortitude, with which he seconded
+ and advanced the progress of the allied army against the British
+ garrison in York.
+
+ That the thanks of the United States, in Congress assembled, be
+ presented to His Excellency Count de Grasse, for his display of
+ skill and bravery in attacking and defeating the British fleet
+ off the Bay of Chesapeake, and for his zeal and alacrity in
+ rendering, with the fleet under his command, the most effectual
+ and distinguished aid and support to the operations of the allied
+ army in Virginia.
+
+ That the thanks of the United States, in Congress assembled, be
+ presented to the commanding and other officers of the corps of
+ artillery and engineers of the allied army, who sustained
+ extraordinary fatigue and danger in their animated and gallant
+ approaches to the lines of the enemy.
+
+ That General Washington be directed to communicate to the other
+ officers and soldiers under his command the thanks of the United
+ States, in Congress assembled, for their conduct and valour on
+ this occasion:
+
+ _Resolved_, That the United States, in Congress assembled, will
+ cause to be erected, at York, in Virginia, a marble column,
+ adorned with emblems of the alliance between the United States
+ and His Most Christian Majesty, and inscribed with a succinct
+ narrative of the surrender of Earl Cornwallis to His Excellency
+ General Washington, commander-in-chief of the combined forces of
+ America and France, to His Excellency the Count de Rochambeau,
+ commanding the auxiliary troops of His Most Christian Majesty in
+ America, and to His Excellency the Count de Grasse,
+ commanding-in-chief the naval army of France in Chesapeake.
+
+ _Resolved_, That two stands of colours taken from the British
+ army under the capitulation of York, be presented to His
+ Excellency General Washington, in the name of the United States
+ in Congress assembled.
+
+ _Resolved_, That two pieces of the field ordnance, taken from the
+ British army under the capitulation of York, be presented by the
+ commander-in-chief of the American army to Count de Rochambeau;
+ and that there be engraved thereon a short memorandum, that
+ Congress were induced to present them from considerations of the
+ illustrious part which he bore in effectuating the surrender.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the Secretary of Foreign Affairs be directed to
+ request the Minister Plenipotentiary of His Most Christian
+ Majesty, to inform his Majesty that it is the wish of Congress
+ that Count de Grasse may be permitted to accept a testimony of
+ their approbation, similar to that to be presented to Count de
+ Rochambeau.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the Board of War be directed to present to
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Tilghman, in the name of the United States in
+ Congress assembled, a horse properly caparisoned, and an elegant
+ sword, in testimony of their high opinion of his merit and
+ ability.
+
+ Monday, October 29, 1781.
+
+ _____
+
+_Benjamin Franklin to Robert R. Livingston._ (p. 090)
+
+ To the Honourable
+ Robert R. LIVINGSTON, Passy, March 4, 1782.
+ Secretary for Foreign Affairs.
+
+ Sir:
+ - - - - -
+
+ This puts me in mind of a medal I have had a mind to strike since
+ the late great event[55] you gave me an account of, representing
+ the United States by the figure of an infant Hercules in his
+ cradle, strangling the two serpents; and France by that of
+ Minerva, sitting by as his nurse, with her spear and helmet, and
+ her robe specked with a few "_fleurs-de-lis_". The extinguishing
+ of two entire armies in one war is what has rarely happened, and
+ it gives a presage of the future force of our growing empire....
+
+ With great esteem,
+ B. FRANKLIN.
+
+ [Footnote 55: The surrender of Lord Cornwallis, at
+ Yorktown, which took place October 19, 1781.]
+
+ _____
+
+_Benjamin Franklin to Sir William Jones._
+
+ To
+ Sir William JONES. Passy, March 17, 1783.
+
+ Sir:
+ - - - - -
+
+ The engraving of my medal, which you know was projected before
+ the peace, is but just finished. None are yet struck in hard
+ metal, but will be in a few days. In the meantime, having this
+ good opportunity by Mr. Penn, I send you one of the "_epreuves_".
+ You will see that I have profited by some of your ideas, and
+ adopted the mottoes you were so kind as to furnish....
+
+ B. FRANKLIN.
+
+ _____
+
+_Benjamin Franklin to Robert R. Livingston._
+
+ To the Honourable
+ Robert R. LIVINGSTON, Passy, April 15, 1783.
+ Secretary for Foreign Affairs.
+
+ Sir: I have caused to be struck here the medal which I formerly
+ mentioned to you, the design of which you seemed to approve. I
+ enclose one in silver for the President of Congress and one in
+ copper for yourself. The impression on copper is thought to
+ appear best; and you will soon receive a number for the members.
+ I have presented one to the King and another to the Queen, (p. 091)
+ both in gold; and one in silver to each of the ministers, as a
+ monumental acknowledgment, which may go down to future ages,
+ of the obligations we are under to this nation. It is mighty well
+ received, and gives general pleasure. If the Congress approve of
+ it, as I hope they will, I may add something on the die (for
+ those to be struck hereafter) to shew that it was done by their
+ order, which I could not venture to do till I had authority for
+ it.
+
+ With the greatest respect, I have the honour to be, Sir, your
+ most obedient and most humble servant,
+ B. FRANKLIN.
+
+ _____
+
+_Benjamin Franklin to Robert R. Livingston._
+
+ To the Honourable
+ Robert R. LIVINGSTON, Passy, July 22, 1783.
+ Secretary for Foreign Affairs.
+
+ Sir: I made the Grand Master of Malta a present of one of our
+ medals in silver, writing to him a letter of which I enclose a
+ copy, and I believe our people will be kindly received in his
+ port.
+
+ With the greatest respect, I have the honour to be, Sir, your
+ most obedient and most humble servant.
+ B. FRANKLIN.
+
+ _____
+
+_Benjamin Franklin to the Grand Master of Malta._
+
+ To His Eminent Highness
+ THE GRAND MASTER OF MALTA. Passy, 6 April, 1783.
+
+ My Lord: I have the honour to address to Your Eminent Highness
+ the medal which I have lately had struck. It is an Homage of
+ gratitude, my Lord, which is due to the interest you have taken
+ in our cause and we no less owe it to your virtues and to Your
+ Eminent Highnesses wise Administration of Government.
+
+ Permit me, my Lord, to demand your protection for such of our
+ citizens as circumstances may lead to your ports. I hope that
+ Your Eminent Highness will be pleased to grant it to them and
+ kindly receive the assurances of the profound respect with which
+ I am, my Lord,
+
+ Your Eminent Highnesses most humble and most obedient servant,
+ B. FRANKLIN.
+
+ _____
+
+_The Grand Master of Malta to Benjamin Franklin._ (p. 092)
+
+ To His Excellency
+ B. FRANKLIN. Malta, 21 June, 1783.
+
+ Sir: I received with the most lively sensibility the medal which
+ Your Excellency sent me, and the value I set upon this
+ acquisition leaves my gratitude unbounded. This monument of
+ American liberty has a distinguished place in my cabinet.
+
+ Whenever chance or commerce shall lead any of your fellow
+ citizens or their vessels into the ports of our Island, I shall
+ receive them with the greatest Welcome, they shall experience
+ from me every assistance they may claim. I shall observe with
+ infinite pleasure any growing connection between that interesting
+ nation and my subjects, especially if it will tend to convince
+ Your Excellency of the distinguished sentiments with which I am,
+
+ Sir, Your Excellency's most affectionate servant,
+ The Grand Master,
+ ROHAN.
+
+
+
+No. 15. (p. 093)
+PLATE XV.
+
+
+_1784._
+
+ Benj. Franklin natus Boston. XVII Jan. MDCCVI. [Rx]. Eripuit
+ coelo fulmen sceptrum que tyrannis.
+
+BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.
+
+BENJ. FRANKLIN NATUS BOSTON. XVII JAN. MDCCVI. (_Benjamin Franklin
+natus Boston, 17 Januarii, 1706: Benjamin Franklin, born in Boston,
+January 17, 1706._) Bust of Franklin, facing the left. On edge of
+bust, DUPRE F. (_fecit_).
+
+ERIPUIT COELO FULMEN SCEPTRUM QUE TYRANNIS. (_He drew fire from heaven
+and wrenched the sceptre from tyrants._) A genius pointing with his
+right hand to a lightning-rod attracting the electric spark, and with
+his left to a broken crown and sceptre at his feet. Exergue: SCULPSIT
+ET DICAVIT AUG. DUPRE ANNO MDCCLXXXIV. (_Sculpsit et dicavit
+Augustinus Dupre, anno 1784: Engraved and dedicated by Augustin Dupre,
+in the year 1784_).[56],[57]
+
+ [Footnote 56: See INTRODUCTION, pages x and xxiii.]
+
+ [Footnote 57: For original documents, see No. 16,
+ page 95.]
+
+
+BENJAMIN FRANKLIN was born in Boston, January 17, 1706. He began life
+as an apprentice to his brother, a printer; went to England to follow
+his trade, but ultimately settled in Philadelphia in 1726, where he
+edited the "Pennsylvania Gazette," and in 1732 began the publication
+of "Poor Richard's Almanac." He founded the first fire company in
+1737, and soon afterward the first fire insurance company. In 1752 he
+discovered the identity of lightning and the electric fluid, and
+invented the lightning-rod. In consideration of his brilliant services
+to science, the degree of LL. D. was conferred upon him by the
+university of Oxford in 1762. Benjamin Franklin was a member of the
+Continental Congress, 1775-1776; a signer of the Declaration of
+Independence, and one of the commissioners to France, 1776-1785. He
+signed the offensive and defensive treaty with France, in Paris, (p. 094)
+February 6, 1778; and the definitive treaty of peace with England,
+September 3, 1783. He was governor of Pennsylvania, 1786-1788; and
+died in Philadelphia, April 17, 1790. Congress ordered a mourning of
+four months, and the National Assembly of France, on the proposal of
+Mirabeau, seconded by Monsieur de la Rochefoucauld and General de la
+Fayette, went into mourning for three days. Turgot composed in his
+honor the celebrated latin verse: _Eripuit coelo fulmen sceptrum que
+tyrannis_.
+
+
+
+No. 16. (p. 095)
+PLATE XVI.
+
+
+_1786._
+
+ Benj. Franklin natus Boston. XVII Jan. MDCCVI. [Rx]. Eripuit
+ coelo fulmen sceptrum que tyrannis.
+
+BENJAMIN FRANKLIN.
+
+BENJ. FRANKLIN NATUS BOSTON. XVII JAN. MDCCVI. (_Benjamin Franklin,
+natus Boston, 17 Januarii, 1706: Benjamin Franklin, born in Boston,
+January 17, 1706._) Bust of Franklin, facing the left. On edge of
+bust, DUPRE F. (_fecit_).
+
+Within a crown of oak: ERIPUIT COELO FULMEN SCEPTRUM QUE TYRANNIS.
+(_He drew fire from Heaven and wrenched the sceptre from tyrants_).
+Exergue: SCULPSIT ET DICAVIT AUG. DUPRE ANNO MDCCLXXXVI. (_Sculpsit et
+dicavit Augustinus Dupre, anno 1786: Engraved and dedicated by
+Augustin Dupre, in the year 1786_).[58]
+
+ [Footnote 58: See INTRODUCTION, pages x and xxiii.]
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_William Short to Thomas Jefferson._
+
+ To the Honourable
+ Thomas JEFFERSON, Paris, June the 14th, 1790.
+ Secretary of State.
+
+ Sir: On the news of Dr. Franklin's death being received here, the
+ National Assembly decreed that they would go in mourning for
+ three days--and that the President should write to Congress to
+ notify to them the part they take in the melancholy event. A kind
+ of enthusiasm has spread also through the different parts of the
+ capital--different societies and bodies have shown their adhesion
+ to the sentiments of the National Assembly in different ways.
+
+ I am, etc.,
+ Wm. SHORT.
+
+ _____
+
+_Thomas Jefferson to the President of the National Assembly of (p. 096)
+France._
+
+ To Philadelphia, March 8th, 1791.
+ THE PRESIDENT OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF FRANCE.
+
+ Sir: I have it in charge from the President of the United States
+ of America to communicate to the National Assembly of France the
+ peculiar sensibility of Congress to the tribute paid to the
+ memory of Benjamin Franklin, by the enlightened and free
+ Representatives of a great nation, in their decree of the 11th of
+ June, 1790.
+
+ That the loss of such a citizen should be lamented by us, among
+ whom he lived, whom he so long and eminently served, and who feel
+ their country advanced and honoured by his birth, life and
+ labours, was to be expected, but it remained for the National
+ Assembly of France to set the first example of the Representative
+ of one nation doing homage by a public act to the private citizen
+ of another, and by withdrawing arbitrary lines of separation, to
+ reduce into one fraternity the good and the great, wherever they
+ have lived or died.
+
+ That these separations may disappear between us in all times and
+ circumstances, and that the union of sentiment, which mingles our
+ sorrows on this occasion, may continue long to cement the
+ friendship and the interests of our two nations is our constant
+ prayer. With no one is it more sincere than with him, who in
+ being charged with the honour of conveying a public sentiment, is
+ permitted that of expressing the homage of profound respect and
+ veneration with which he is,
+
+ Sir, your most obedient and humble servant,
+ Th: JEFFERSON.
+
+
+
+No. 17. (p. 097)
+PLATE XVII.
+
+
+_September 23, 1779._
+
+ Joanni Pavlo Jones classis praefecto. Comitia Americana. [Rx].
+ Hostivm navibvs captis avt fvgatis.
+
+CAPTAIN JOHN PAUL JONES.
+
+[_Capture of the Serapis._]
+
+JOANNI PAVLO JONES CLASSIS PRAEFECTO. COMITIA AMERICANA. (_The American
+Congress to naval commander John Paul Jones_). Bust of Captain Jones,
+in uniform, facing the right. On edge of bust, DUPRE F. (_fecit_).
+
+HOSTIVM NAVIBVS CAPTIS AVT FVGATIS. (_The enemy's vessels taken or put
+to flight._) Naval action between the United States frigate Bonhomme
+Richard, of forty guns, Captain John Paul Jones, and the British
+frigate Serapis, of forty-four guns, Captain Pearson. Both vessels are
+grappled, lying head and stern. The Bonhomme Richard is on fire, and
+her crew are boarding the Serapis. To the left, a third vessel.[59]
+Exergue: AD ORAM SCOTIAE (_sic_) XXIII SEPT. (_Septembris_)
+M.DCCLXXVIIII. (_Off the coast of Scotland, September 23, 1779._)
+DUPRE. F. (_fecit_).[60]
+
+ [Footnote 59: See Admiral Jones's curious
+ observations on the position of the accessories on
+ the reverse, in his letter to Jefferson, dated
+ August 29,/September 9, 1788, page 112.]
+
+ [Footnote 60: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xix, xx,
+ xxi, xxviii; D, xli; E, xliv; F, xlv; and H,
+ xlvii.]
+
+The legend on the reverse of the medal is the second of the two
+proposed by the French Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres. The
+first was, PRIMUS AMERICANORUM TRIUMPHUS NAVALIS.
+
+The bust of John Paul Jones, on the obverse of this medal, is from a
+plaster cast by Houdon, the celebrated sculptor.
+
+
+THE CHEVALIER JOHN PAUL JONES was born at Arbingland, in the (p. 098)
+parish of Kirkbean, in Scotland, July 6, 1747. He went to sea when
+young, and settled in Virginia in 1773. In 1775 he was appointed a
+lieutenant in the navy, through the recommendation of General Jones,
+of North Carolina, and in gratitude to him, he added the name of Jones
+to his family name of Paul. He joined the Alfred, of thirty guns and
+three hundred men, and on her deck, October 10, 1776, when off
+Chestnut street wharf, Philadelphia, under a salute of thirteen guns,
+hoisted with his own hands the first American naval flag. This had
+thirteen stripes, but without the blue union, and bore across the
+field a rattlesnake with the motto "Don't tread on me." Appointed
+captain in October, 1776, he was soon afterward sent by Congress to
+France, to arrange certain naval matters with the American
+commissioners. Subsequently he carried terror along the coast of
+England, and on September 23, 1779, fought his famous action off
+Flamborough Head, near Scarborough, in which he took the Serapis,
+Captain Richard Pearson. He was enthusiastically received in France,
+and King Louis XVI. presented him with a sword of honor and with the
+cross of Military Merit. Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold
+medal, in 1787, and sent him to France, Denmark, and Sweden, as agent
+for prize money. The same year he entered the Russian service with the
+rank of rear-admiral, and received from the Empress Catherine II. the
+cross of St. Anne. He had a command in the squadron stationed in the
+Black Sea, where he greatly distinguished himself, but embittered by
+slanderous calumnies, he left the Russian service and settled in
+Paris, where he died in poverty, July 18, 1792. The National Assembly
+of France, then in session, expressed their regret for him by wearing
+mourning, and sent a deputation to attend his funeral.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to the Chevalier John Paul
+Jones._
+
+IN CONGRESS.
+
+ _Resolved unanimously_, That a medal of gold be struck and
+ presented to the Chevalier John Paul Jones, in commemoration of
+ the valour and brilliant services of that officer, in the command
+ of a squadron of French and American ships, under the flag and
+ commission of the United States, off the coast of Great Britain,
+ in the late war; and that the Honourable Mr. Jefferson, (p. 099)
+ Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States at the Court of
+ Versailles, have the same executed, with the proper devices.
+
+ _Resolved_, That a letter be written to His Most Christian
+ Majesty, informing him that the United States, in Congress
+ assembled, have bestowed upon the Chevalier John Paul Jones, this
+ medal, as well in consideration of the distinguished marks of
+ approbation which His Majesty has pleased to confer upon that
+ officer, as from a sense of his merit: And, that as it is his
+ earnest desire to acquire greater knowledge in his profession, it
+ would be acceptable to Congress, that His Majesty would be
+ pleased to permit him to embark with his fleets of evolution,
+ convinced that he can no where else so well acquire that
+ knowledge which may hereafter render him more extensively useful.
+
+ _Ordered_, That the Secretary of Foreign Affairs prepare a letter
+ for the above purpose, to be signed by the President, and that
+ the Chevalier Jones be the bearer of the said letter.
+
+ Tuesday, October 16, 1787.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain John Paul Jones to Benjamin Franklin._
+
+ On board the ship Serapis,
+ To His Excellency At anchor without the Texel, in Holland,
+ Benjamin FRANKLIN. October 3, 1779.
+
+ Honoured and Dear Sir: When I had the honour of writing to you on
+ the 11th of August, previous to my departure from the Road of
+ Groaix, I had before me the most flattering prospect of rendering
+ essential service to the common cause of France and America. I
+ had a full confidence in the voluntary inclination and ability of
+ every captain under my command to assist and support me in my
+ duty with cheerful emulation; and I was persuaded that every one
+ of them would pursue glory in preference to interest.
+
+ Whether I was or was not deceived will best appear by a relation
+ of circumstances.
+
+ The little squadron under my orders, consisting of the Bonhomme
+ Richard of 40 guns, the Alliance of 36 guns, the Pallas of 32
+ guns, the Cerf of 18 guns, and the Vengeance of 12 guns, joined
+ by two privateers, the Monsieur and the Granville, sailed from
+ the Road of Groaix at daybreak on the 14th of August; the same
+ day we spoke with a large convoy bound from the southward to
+ Brest.
+
+ On the 18th we retook a large ship belonging to Holland, laden
+ chiefly with brandy and wine that had been destined from
+ Barcelona for Dunkirk, and taken eight days before by an English
+ privateer. The captain of the Monsieur, however, took out of this
+ prize such articles as he pleased in the night, and the next day
+ being astern of the squadron and to windward, he actually wrote
+ orders _in his proper_ name, and sent away the prize under one of
+ his own officers. This, however, I superseded by sending her (p. 100)
+ for L'Orient under my orders in the character of
+ commander-in-chief. The evening of the day following the Monsieur
+ separated from the squadron.
+
+ On the 20th we saw and chased a large ship, but could not
+ overtake her, she being to windward.
+
+ On the 21st we saw and chased another ship that was also to
+ windward, and thereby eluded our pursuit. The same afternoon we
+ took a brigantine called the Mayflower, laden with butter and
+ salt provisions, bound from Limerick, in Ireland, for London;
+ this vessel I immediately expedited for L'Orient.
+
+ On the 23d we saw Cape Clear and S. W. part of Ireland. That
+ afternoon, it being calm, I sent some armed boats to take a
+ brigantine that appeared in the N. W. quarter. Soon after in the
+ evening it became necessary to have a boat ahead of the ship to
+ tow, as the helm could not prevent her from laying across the
+ tide of flood, which would have driven us into a deep and
+ dangerous bay, situated between the rocks on the south called the
+ Shallocks, and on the north called the Blaskets. The ship's boats
+ being absent, I sent my own barge ahead to tow the ship. The
+ boats took the brigantine, she was called the Fortune, and bound
+ with a cargo of oil, blubber, and staves, from Newfoundland for
+ Bristol; this vessel I ordered to proceed immediately for Nantes
+ or St. Malo. Soon after sunset the villains who towed the ship,
+ cut the tow rope and decamped with my barge. Sundry shots were
+ fired to bring them to without effect; in the mean time the
+ master of the Bonhomme Richard, without orders, manned one of the
+ ship's boats, and with four soldiers pursued the barge in order
+ to stop the deserters. The evening was clear and serene, but the
+ zeal of that officer, Mr. Cutting Lent, induced him to pursue too
+ far, and a fog which came on soon afterwards prevented the boats
+ from rejoining the ship, although I caused signal guns to be
+ frequently fired. The fog and calm continued the next day till
+ towards evening. In the afternoon Captain Landais came on board
+ the Bonhomme Richard and behaved towards me with great
+ disrespect, affirming in the most indelicate manner and language
+ that I had lost my boats and people through my imprudence in
+ sending boats to take a prize! He persisted in his reproaches,
+ though he was assured by Messrs. de Weibert and de Chamillard
+ that the barge was towing the ship at the time of elopement, and
+ that she had not been sent in pursuit of the prize. He was
+ affronted because I would not the day before suffer him to chase
+ without my orders, and to approach the dangerous shore I have
+ already mentioned, where he was an entire stranger, and when
+ there was not sufficient wind to govern a ship. He told me he was
+ the only American in the squadron, and was determined to follow
+ his own opinion in chasing when and where he thought proper, and
+ in every other matter that concerned the service, and that, if I
+ continued in that situation three days longer, the squadron would
+ be taken, etc. By the advice of Captain de Cottineau, and with
+ the free consent and approbation of M. de Varage, I sent the Cerf
+ in to reconnoitre the coast, and endeavour to take the boats and
+ people the next day, while the squadron stood off and on in S. W.
+ quarter, in the best possible situation to intercept the enemy's
+ merchant ships, whether outward or homeward bound. The Cerf had
+ on board a pilot well acquainted with the coast, and was ordered
+ to join me again before night. I approached the shore in the
+ afternoon, but the Cerf did not appear; this induced me to (p. 101)
+ stand off again in the night in order to return and be joined
+ by the Cerf the next day; but to my great concern and
+ disappointment, though I ranged the coast along, and hoisted our
+ private signals, neither the boats nor the Cerf joined me. The
+ evening of that day, the 26th, brought with it stormy weather,
+ with the appearance of a severe gale from the S. W., yet I must
+ declare I did not follow my own judgment, but was led by the
+ assertion which had fallen from Captain Landais, when I in the
+ evening made a signal to steer to the northward and leave that
+ station, which I wished to have occupied at least a week longer.
+ The gale increased in the night with thick weather; to prevent
+ separation, I carried a top light and fired a gun every quarter
+ of an hour. I carried also a very moderate sail, and the course
+ had been clearly pointed out by a signal before night; yet, with
+ all this precaution, I found myself accompanied only by the
+ brigantine Vengeance in the morning, the Granville having
+ remained astern with a prize, as I have since understood the
+ tiller of the Pallas broke after midnight, which disabled her
+ from keeping up, but no apology has yet been made in behalf of
+ the Alliance.
+
+ On the 31st we saw the Flannen Islands, situated near the Lewis,
+ on the N. W. coast of Scotland; and the next morning, off Cape
+ Wrath, we gave chase to a ship to windward, at the same time two
+ ships appearing in the N. W. quarter, which proved to be the
+ Alliance and a prize ship which she had taken, bound, as I
+ understood, from Liverpool to Jamaica. The ship which I chased
+ brought to at noon; she proved to be the Union, letter of marque,
+ bound from London for Quebec, with a cargo of naval stores on
+ account of government, adapted for the service of British armed
+ vessels on the lakes. The public despatches were lost, as the
+ Alliance very imprudently hoisted American colours, though
+ English colours were then flying on board the Bonhomme Richard.
+ Captain Landais sent a small boat to ask whether I would man the
+ ship, or he should, as in the latter case he would suffer no boat
+ nor person from the Bonhomme Richard to go near the prize.
+ Ridiculous as this appeared to me, I yielded to it for the sake
+ of peace, and received the prisoners on board the Bonhomme
+ Richard, while the prize was manned from the Alliance. In the
+ afternoon another sail appeared, and I immediately made the
+ signal for the Alliance to chase; but, instead of obeying, he
+ wore and laid the ship's head the other way. The next morning I
+ made a signal to speak with the Alliance, to which no attention
+ was shown; I then made sail with the ships in company for the
+ second rendezvous which was not far distant, and where I fully
+ expected to be joined by the Pallas and Cerf.
+
+ The 2d of September we saw a sail at daybreak, and gave chase;
+ that ship proved to be the Pallas, and had met with no success
+ while separated from the Bonhomme Richard.
+
+ On the 3d the Vengeance brought to a small Irish brigantine,
+ bound homeward from Norway. The same evening I sent the Vengeance
+ in the N. E. quarter to bring up the two prize ships that
+ appeared to me to be too near the islands of Shetland, while with
+ the Alliance and Pallas I endeavoured to weather Fair Isle, and
+ to get into my second rendezvous, where I directed the Vengeance
+ to join me with the three prizes. The next morning, having
+ weathered Fair Isle, and not seeing the Vengeance nor the prizes,
+ I spoke the Alliance, and ordered her to steer to the northward
+ and bring them up to the rendezvous.
+
+ On the morning of the 4th the Alliance appeared again, and (p. 102)
+ had brought to two very small coasting sloops in ballast, but
+ without having attended properly to my orders of yesterday. The
+ Vengeance joined me soon after, and informed me that in
+ consequence of Captain Landais' orders to the commanders of the
+ two prize ships, they had refused to follow him to the
+ rendezvous. I am to this moment ignorant of what orders these men
+ received from Captain Landais, nor know I by virtue of what
+ authority he ventured to give his orders to prizes in my
+ presence, and without either my knowledge or approbation. Captain
+ Ricot further informed me that he had burnt the prize brigantine,
+ because that vessel proved leaky; and I was sorry to understand
+ afterward that though the vessel was Irish property, the cargo
+ was property of the subjects of Norway.
+
+ In the evening I sent for all the captains to come on board the
+ Bonhomme Richard, to consult on future plans of operations.
+ Captains Cottineau and Ricot obeyed me, but Captain Landais
+ obstinately refused, and after sending me various uncivil
+ messages, wrote me a very extraordinary letter in answer to a
+ written order which I had sent him, on finding that he had
+ trifled with my verbal orders. The next day a pilot boat came on
+ board from Shetland, by which means I received such advices as
+ induced me to change a plan which I otherwise meant to have
+ pursued; and as the Cerf did not appear at my second rendezvous,
+ I determined to steer towards the third in hopes of meeting her
+ there.
+
+ In the afternoon a gale of wind came on, which continued four
+ days without intermission. In the second night of that gale the
+ Alliance, with her two little prizes, again separated from the
+ Bonhomme Richard. I had now with me only the Pallas and the
+ Vengeance, yet I did not abandon the hopes of performing some
+ essential service. The winds continued contrary, so that we did
+ not see the land till the evening of the 13th, when the hills of
+ the Cheviot in the S. E. of Scotland appeared. The next day we
+ chased sundry vessels, and took a ship and a brigantine, both
+ from the Firth of Edinburgh, laden with coal. Knowing that there
+ lay at anchor in Leith Road an armed ship of 20 guns, with two or
+ three fine cutters, I formed an expedition against Leith, which I
+ purposed to lay under a large contribution, or otherwise to
+ reduce it to ashes. Had I been alone, the wind being favourable,
+ I would have proceeded directly up the Firth, and must have
+ succeeded, as they lay there in a state of perfect indolence and
+ security, which would have proved their ruin. Unfortunately for
+ me, the Pallas and Vengeance were both at a considerable distance
+ in the offing, they having chased to the southward; this obliged
+ us to steer out of the Firth again to meet them. The captains of
+ the Pallas and Vengeance being come on board the Bonhomme
+ Richard, I communicated to them my project, to which many
+ difficulties and objections were made by them; at last, however,
+ they appeared to think better of the design, after I had assured
+ them that I hoped to raise 200,000 pounds sterling on Leith, and
+ that there was no battery of cannon there to oppose our landing.
+ So much time, however, was unavoidably spent in pointed remarks
+ and sage deliberation that night, that the wind became contrary
+ in the morning.
+
+ We continued working to windward up the Firth without being able
+ to reach the road of Leith, till, on the morning of the 17th,
+ when, being almost within cannon shot of the town, having (p. 103)
+ everything in readiness for a descent, a very severe gale of
+ wind came on, and being directly contrary, obliged us to bear
+ away, after having in vain endeavoured for some time to withstand
+ its violence. The gale was so severe that one of the prizes that
+ had been taken on the 14th sunk to the bottom, the crew being
+ with difficulty saved. As the alarm by this time had reached
+ Leith by means of a cutter that had watched our motions that
+ morning, and as the wind continued contrary (though more moderate
+ in the evening), I thought it impossible to pursue the enterprize
+ with a good prospect of success; especially as Edinburgh, where
+ there is always a number of troops, is only a mile distant from
+ Leith, therefore I gave up the project.
+
+ On the 19th, having taken a sloop and a brigantine in ballast,
+ with a sloop laden with building timber, I proposed another
+ project to M. Cottineau, which would have been highly honourable
+ though not profitable; many difficulties were made, and our
+ situation was represented as being the most perilous. The enemy,
+ he said, would send against us a superior force, and that if I
+ obstinately continued on the coast of England two days longer, we
+ should all be taken. The Vengeance having chased along shore to
+ the southward, Captain Cottineau said he would follow her with
+ the prizes, as I was unable to make much sail, having that day
+ been obliged to strike the main-top-mast to repair damages; and
+ as I afterward understood, he told M. de Chamillard that unless I
+ joined them the next day, both the Pallas and the Vengeance would
+ leave that coast. I had thoughts of attempting the enterprize
+ alone after the Pallas had made sail to join the Vengeance. I am
+ persuaded, even now, that I would have succeeded, and to the
+ honour of my young officers, I found them as ardently disposed to
+ the business as I could desire; nothing prevented me from
+ pursuing my design but the reproach that would have been cast
+ upon my character, as a man of prudence, had the enterprize
+ miscarried. It would have been said, was he not forewarned by
+ Capt. Cottineau and others?
+
+ I made sail along shore to the southward, and next morning took a
+ coasting sloop, in ballast, which, with another that I had taken
+ the night before, I ordered to be sunk. In the evening I again
+ met with the Pallas and Vengeance, off Whitby. Captain Cottineau
+ told me he had sunk the brigantine, and ransomed the sloop, laden
+ with building timber, that had been taken the day before. I had
+ told Captain Cottineau, the day before, that I had no authority
+ to ransom prizes.
+
+ On the 21st we saw and chased two sail, off Flamborough Head, the
+ Pallas in the N. E. quarter, while the Bonhomme Richard followed
+ by the Vengeance in the S. W. The one I chased, a brigantine
+ collier in ballast, belonging to Scarborough, was soon taken, and
+ sunk immediately afterward, as a fleet then appeared to the
+ southward. It was so late in the day that I could not come up
+ with the fleet before night; at length, however, I got so near
+ one of them as to force her to run ashore, between Flamborough
+ Head and the Spurn. Soon after I took another, a brigantine from
+ Holland, belonging to Sunderland; and at daylight the next
+ morning, seeing a fleet steering towards me from the Spurn, I
+ imagined them to be a convoy, bound from London for Leith, which
+ had been for some time expected; one of them had a pendant
+ hoisted, and appeared to be a ship of force. They had not,
+ however, courage to come on, but kept back, all except the one
+ which seemed to be armed, and that one also kept to windward (p. 104)
+ very near the land, and on the edge of dangerous shoals,
+ where I could not with safety approach. This induced me to make a
+ signal for a pilot, and soon afterward two pilot boats came off;
+ they informed me that the ship that wore a pendant was an armed
+ merchant ship, and that a king's frigate lay there in sight, at
+ anchor within the Humber, waiting to take under convoy a number
+ of merchant ships bound to the northward. The pilots imagined the
+ Bonhomme Richard to be an English ship of war, and, consequently,
+ communicated to me the private signal which they had been
+ required to make. I endeavoured by this means to decoy the ships
+ out of the port, but the wind then changing, and with the tide
+ becoming unfavourable for them, the deception had not the desired
+ effect, and they wisely put back. The entrance of the Humber is
+ exceedingly difficult and dangerous, and, as the Pallas was not
+ in sight, I thought it not prudent to remain off the entrance; I,
+ therefore, steered out again to join the Pallas off Flamborough
+ Head. In the night we saw and chased two ships until three
+ o'clock in the morning, when, being at a very small distance from
+ them, I made the private signal of recognizance, which I had
+ given to each captain before I sailed from Groaix. One half of
+ the answer only was returned. In this position both sides lay to
+ till daylight, when the ships proved to be the Alliance and the
+ Pallas.
+
+ On the morning of that day, the 23d of September, the brig from
+ Holland not being in sight, we chased a brigantine that appeared
+ laying to windward. About noon we saw and chased a large ship
+ that appeared coming round Flamborough Head, from the northward,
+ and at the same time I manned and armed one of the pilot boats to
+ sail in pursuit of the brigantine, which now appeared to be the
+ vessel that I had forced ashore. Soon after this a fleet of
+ forty-one sail appeared off Flamborough Head, bearing N. N. E.;
+ this induced me to abandon the single ship which had then
+ anchored in Burlington Bay; I also called back the pilot boat and
+ hoisted a signal for a general chase. When the fleet discovered
+ us bearing down all the merchant ships crowded sail towards the
+ shore. The two ships of war that protected the fleet at the same
+ time steered from the land, and made the disposition for the
+ battle. In approaching the enemy I crowded every possible sail,
+ and made the signal for the line of battle, to which the Alliance
+ showed no attention. Earnest as I was for the action, I could not
+ reach the commodore's ship until seven in the evening, being then
+ within pistol shot, when he hailed the Bonhomme Richard. We
+ answered him by firing a whole broadside.
+
+ The battle being thus begun, was continued with unremitting fury.
+ Every method was practised on both sides to gain an advantage,
+ and rake each other; and I must confess that the enemy's ship
+ being much more manageable than the Bonhomme Richard, gained
+ thereby several times an advantageous situation, in spite of my
+ best endeavours to prevent it. As I had to deal with an enemy of
+ _greatly superior force_, I was under the necessity of closing
+ with him, to prevent the advantage which he had over me in point
+ of manoeuvre. It was my intention to lay the Bonhomme Richard
+ athwart the enemy's bow, but as that operation required great
+ dexterity in the management of both sails and helm, and some of
+ our braces being shot away, it did not exactly succeed to my
+ wishes; the enemy's bowsprit, however, came over the Bonhomme
+ Richard's poop, by the mizzen mast, and I made both ships fast
+ together in that situation, which, by the action of the wind (p. 105)
+ on the enemy's sails, forced her stern close to the Bonhomme
+ Richard's bow, so that the ships lay square alongside of each
+ other, the yards being all entangled, and the cannon of each ship
+ touching the opponent's side. When this position took place it
+ was eight o'clock, previous to which the Bonhomme Richard had
+ received sundry eighteen pound shot below the water and leaked
+ very much. My battery of 12-pounders, on which I had placed my
+ chief dependence, being commanded by Lieut. Dale and Col.
+ Weibert, and manned principally with American seamen and French
+ volunteers, were entirely silenced and abandoned. As to the six
+ old 18-pounders that formed the battery of the lower gun-deck,
+ they did no service whatever; two out of three of them burst at
+ the first fire, and killed almost all the men who were stationed
+ to manage them. Before this time, too, Col. de Chamillard, who
+ commanded a party of twenty soldiers on the poop, had abandoned
+ that station, after having lost some of his men. These men
+ deserted their quarters. I had now only two pieces of cannon,
+ 9-pounders, on the quarter-deck that were not silenced, and not
+ one of the heavier cannon was fired during the rest of the
+ action. The purser, Mr. Mease, who commanded the guns on the
+ quarter-deck, being dangerously wounded in the head, I was
+ obliged to fill his place, and with great difficulty rallied a
+ few men, and shifted over one of the lee quarter-deck guns, so
+ that we afterwards played three pieces of 9-pounders upon the
+ enemy. The tops alone seconded the fire of this little battery,
+ and held out bravely during the whole of the action; especially
+ the main top, where Lieut. Stack commanded. I directed the fire
+ of one of the three cannon against the main-mast with
+ double-headed shot, while the other two were exceedingly well
+ served with grape and canister-shot to silence the enemy's
+ musketry, and clear her decks, which was at last effected. The
+ enemy were, as I have since understood, on the instant of calling
+ for quarter, when the cowardice or treachery of three of my under
+ officers induced them to call to the enemy. The English commodore
+ asked me if I demanded quarter, and I having answered him in the
+ most determined negative, they renewed the battle with double
+ fury; they were unable to stand the deck, but the fire of their
+ cannon, especially the lower battery, which was entirely formed
+ of 18-pounders, was incessant. Both ships were set on fire in
+ various places, and the scene was dreadful beyond the reach of
+ language. To account for the timidity of my three under officers,
+ I mean the gunner, the carpenter, and the master-at-arms, I must
+ observe that the two first were slightly wounded, and as the ship
+ had received various shots under water, and one of the pumps
+ being shot away, the carpenter expressed his fear that she would
+ sink, and the other two concluded that she was sinking, which
+ occasioned the gunner to run aft on the poop, without my
+ knowledge, to strike the colours; fortunately for me, a cannon
+ ball had done that before, by carrying away the ensign staff; he
+ was, therefore, reduced to the necessity of sinking, as he
+ supposed, or of calling for quarter, and he preferred the latter.
+
+ All this time the Bonhomme Richard had sustained the action
+ alone, and the enemy, though much superior in force, would have
+ been very glad to have got clear, as appeared by their own
+ acknowledgments, and their having let go an anchor the instant I
+ laid them on board, by which means they would have escaped, had I
+ not made them well fast to the Bonhomme Richard.
+
+ At last, at half-past nine o'clock, the Alliance appeared, (p. 106)
+ and I now thought the battle at an end; but to my utter
+ astonishment, he discharged a broadside full into the stern of
+ the Bonhomme Richard. We called to him for God's sake to forbear
+ firing into the Bonhomme Richard; yet he passed along the off
+ side of the ship, and continued firing. There was no possibility
+ of his mistaking the enemy's ship for the Bonhomme Richard, there
+ being the most essential difference in their appearance and
+ construction; besides it was then full moonlight, and the sides
+ of the Bonhomme Richard were all black, while the sides of the
+ prizes were yellow; yet, for their greater security, I showed the
+ signal of our reconnoissance by putting out three lanterns, one
+ at the head (bow), another at the stern (quarter), and the third
+ in the middle, in a horizontal line. Every tongue cried that he
+ was firing into the wrong ship, but nothing availed, he passed
+ round, firing into the Bonhomme Richard's head, stern, and
+ broadside, and by one of his volleys killed several of my best
+ men and mortally wounded a good officer on the forecastle. My
+ situation was really deplorable. The Bonhomme Richard received
+ various shots under water from the Alliance; the leak gained on
+ the pumps; and the fire increased much on board both ships. Some
+ officers persuaded me to strike, of whose courage and good sense
+ I entertain a high opinion. My treacherous master-at-arms let
+ loose all my prisoners, without my knowledge, and my prospect
+ became gloomy indeed. I would not, however, give up the point.
+ The enemy's main-mast began to shake, their firing decreased,
+ ours rather increased, and the British colours were struck at
+ half an hour past ten o'clock.
+
+ This prize proved to be the British ship-of-war the Serapis, a
+ new ship of 44 guns, built on their most approved construction,
+ with two complete batteries, one of them 18-pounders, and
+ commanded by the brave Commodore Richard Pearson. I had yet two
+ enemies to encounter far more formidable than the Britons--I mean
+ fire, and water. The Serapis was attacked only by the first, but
+ the Bonhomme Richard was assailed by both: there were five feet
+ water in the hold, and though it was moderate from the explosion
+ of so much gunpowder, yet the three pumps that remained could
+ with difficulty only keep the water from gaining. The fire broke
+ out in various parts of the ship, in spite of all the water that
+ could be thrown to quench it, and at length broke out as low as
+ the powder magazine, and within a few inches of the powder. In
+ that dilemma, I took out the powder upon deck, ready to be thrown
+ overboard at the last extremity, and it was 10 o'clock the next
+ day, the 24th, before the fire was entirely extinguished. With
+ respect to the situation of the Bonhomme Richard, the rudder was
+ cut entirely off the stern frame, and the transoms were almost
+ entirely cut away; the timbers, by the lower deck especially,
+ from the mainmast to the stern, being greatly decayed with age,
+ were mangled beyond my power of description; and a person must
+ have been an eye witness to form a just idea of the tremendous
+ scene of carnage, wreck, and ruin that everywhere appeared.
+ Humanity cannot but recoil from the prospect of such finished
+ horror, and lament that war should produce such fatal
+ consequences.
+
+ After the carpenters, as well as Capt. de Cottineau, and other
+ men of sense had well examined and surveyed the ship (which was
+ not finished before five in the evening), I found every person
+ to be convinced that it was impossible to keep the Bonhomme (p. 107)
+ Richard afloat so as to reach a port if the wind should
+ increase, it being then only a very moderate breeze. I had but
+ little time to remove my wounded, which now became unavoidable,
+ and which was effected in the course of the night and next
+ morning. I was determined to keep the Bonhomme Richard afloat,
+ and, if possible, to bring her into port. For that purpose, the
+ first lieutenant of the Pallas continued on board with a party of
+ men to attend the pumps, with boats in waiting, ready to take
+ them on board, in case the water should gain on them too fast.
+ The wind augmented in the night and the next day, on the 25th, so
+ that it was impossible to prevent the good old ship from sinking.
+ They did not abandon her until after 9 o'clock; the water was
+ then up to the lower deck, and a little after ten, I saw with
+ inexpressible grief the last glimpse of the Bonhomme Richard. No
+ lives were lost with the ship, but it was impossible to save the
+ stores of any sort whatever. I lost even the best part of my
+ clothes, books, and papers; and several of my officers lost all
+ their clothes and effects.
+
+ Having thus endeavoured to give a clear and simple relation of
+ the circumstances and events that have attended the little
+ armament under my command, I shall freely submit my conduct
+ therein to the censure of my superiors and the impartial public.
+ I beg leave, however, to observe, that the force that was put
+ under my command was far from being well composed; and as the
+ great majority of the actors in it have appeared bent on the
+ pursuit of interest only, I am exceedingly sorry that they and I
+ have been at all concerned. I am in the highest degree sensible
+ of the singular attentions which I have experienced from the
+ court of France, which I shall remember with perfect gratitude
+ until the end of my life, and will always endeavour to merit,
+ while I can, consistent with my honour, continue in the public
+ service. I must speak plainly. As I have always been honoured
+ with the full confidence of Congress, and as I always flattered
+ myself with enjoying in some measure the confidence of the court
+ of France, I could not but be astonished at the conduct of M. de
+ Chaumont, when, in the moment of my departure from Groaix, he
+ produced a paper, a concordat, for me to sign, in common with the
+ officers whom I had commissioned but a few days before. Had that
+ paper, or even a less dishonourable one, been proposed to me at
+ the beginning, I would have rejected it with just contempt, and
+ the word _deplacement_, among others, should have been necessary.
+ I cannot, however, even now suppose that he was authorized by the
+ court to make such a bargain with me; nor can I suppose that the
+ minister of marine meant that M. de Chaumont should consider me
+ merely as a colleague with the commanders of the other ships, and
+ communicate to them not only all he knew, but all he thought,
+ respecting our destination and operations. M. de Chaumont has
+ made me various reproaches on account of the expense of the
+ Bonhomme Richard, wherewith I cannot think I have been justly
+ chargeable. M. de Chamillard can attest that the Bonhomme Richard
+ was at last far from being well fitted or armed for war. If any
+ person or persons who have been charged with the expense of that
+ armament have acted wrong, the fault must not be laid to my
+ charge. I had no authority to superintend that armament, and the
+ persons who had authority were so far from giving me what I
+ thought necessary that M. de Chaumont even refused, among other
+ things, to allow me irons to secure the prisoners of war.
+
+ In short, while my life remains, if I have any capacity to (p. 108)
+ render good and acceptable services to the common cause, no
+ man will step forward with greater cheerfulness and alacrity than
+ myself, but I am not made to be dishonoured, nor can I accept of
+ the _half confidence_ of any man living; of course, I cannot,
+ consistent with my honour and a prospect of success, undertake
+ future expeditions, unless when the object and destination is
+ communicated to me alone, and to no other person in the marine
+ line. In cases where troops are embarked, a like confidence is
+ due alone to their commander-in-chief. On no other condition will
+ I ever undertake the chief command of a private expedition; and
+ when I do not command in chief, I have no desire to be in the
+ secret.
+
+ Captain Cottineau engaged the Countess of Scarborough, and took
+ her after an hour's action, while the Bonhomme Richard engaged
+ the Serapis. The Countess of Scarborough is an armed ship of 20
+ six-pounders, and was commanded by a king's officer. In the
+ action, the Countess of Scarborough and the Serapis were at a
+ considerable distance asunder; and the Alliance, as I am
+ informed, fired into the Pallas, and killed some men. If it
+ should be asked why the convoy was suffered to escape, I must
+ answer, that I was myself in no condition to pursue, and that
+ none of the rest showed any inclination, not even M. Ricot, who
+ had held off at a distance to windward during the whole action,
+ and withheld by force the pilot boat with my lieutenant and 15
+ men. The Alliance, too, was in a state to pursue the fleet, not
+ having had a single man wounded, or a single shot fired at her
+ from the Serapis, and only three that did execution from the
+ Countess of Scarborough, at such a distance that one stuck in the
+ side, and the other two just touched and then dropped into the
+ water. The Alliance killed one man only on board the Serapis. As
+ Captain de Cottineau charged himself with manning and securing
+ the prisoners of the Countess of Scarborough, I think the escape
+ of the Baltic fleet cannot so well be charged to his account.
+
+ I should have mentioned that the main-mast and mizzen topmast of
+ the Serapis fell overboard soon after the captain had come on
+ board the Bonhomme Richard.
+
+ Upon the whole, the captain of the Alliance has behaved so very
+ ill in every respect that I must complain loudly of his conduct.
+ He pretends that he is authorized to act independent of my
+ command. I have been taught the contrary; but, supposing it to be
+ so, his conduct has been base and unpardonable. M. de Chamillard
+ will explain the particulars. Either Captain Landais or myself is
+ highly criminal, and one or the other must be punished. I forbear
+ to take any steps with him until I have the advice and
+ approbation of Your Excellency. I have been advised by all the
+ officers of the squadron to put M. Landais under arrest; but, as
+ I have postponed it so long, I will bear with him a little
+ longer, until the return of my express.
+
+ We this day anchored here, having since the action been tossed to
+ and fro by contrary winds. I wished to have gained the road of
+ Dunkirk on account of our prisoners, but was overruled by the
+ majority of _my colleagues_. I shall hasten up to Amsterdam, and
+ there, if I meet with no orders from my government, I will take
+ the advice of the French ambassador. It is my present intention
+ to have the Countess of Scarborough ready to transport the
+ prisoners from hence to Dunkirk, unless it should be found more
+ expedient to deliver them to the English ambassador, taking his
+ obligation to send to Dunkirk, &c., immediately an equal number
+ of American prisoners. I am under strong apprehensions that our
+ object here will fail, and that through the imprudence of (p. 109)
+ M. de Chaumont, who has communicated everything he knew or
+ thought on the matter to persons who cannot help talking of it at
+ a full table. This is the way he keeps state secrets, though he
+ never mentioned the affair to me.
+
+ I am ever, &c.,
+ John P. JONES.
+
+ _____
+
+_M. de Sartine to the President of Congress._
+
+ To
+ Mr. HUNTINGTON, Versailles, May 30, 1780.
+ President of the Congress of the United States.
+
+ Commodore Paul Jones, after having shown to all Europe, and
+ particularly to the enemies of France and the United States, the
+ most unquestionable proofs of his valour and talents, is about
+ returning to America to give an account to Congress of the
+ success of his military operations. I am convinced, Sir, that the
+ reputation he has so justly acquired will precede him, and that
+ the recital of his actions alone will suffice to prove to his
+ fellow citizens that his abilities are equal to his courage. But
+ the King has thought proper to add His suffrage and attention to
+ the public opinion. He has expressly charged me to inform you how
+ perfectly He is satisfied with the services of the Commodore,
+ persuaded that Congress will render him the same justice. He has
+ offered, as a proof of His esteem, to present him with a sword,
+ which cannot be placed in better hands, and likewise proposes to
+ Congress to decorate this brave officer with the Cross of
+ Military Merit.[61] His Majesty conceives that this particular
+ distinction, by holding forth the same honours to the two
+ nations, united by the same interests, will be looked upon as one
+ tie more that connects them, and will support that emulation
+ which is so precious to the common cause. If, after having
+ approved the conduct of the Commodore, it should be thought
+ proper to give him the command of any new expedition to Europe,
+ His Majesty will receive him again with pleasure, and presumes
+ that Congress will oppose nothing that may be judged expedient to
+ secure the success of his enterprizes. My personal esteem for him
+ induces me to recommend him very particularly to you, Sir, and I
+ dare flatter myself that the reception he will receive from
+ Congress and you, will warrant the sentiments with which he has
+ inspired me.
+
+ I have the honour of being, &c.,
+ DE SARTINE.
+
+ [Footnote 61: Captain John Paul Jones was the only
+ American officer decorated by the King of France
+ during the Revolutionary War.]
+
+ _____
+
+_M. de Sartine to Commodore John Paul Jones._
+
+ Mr. Paul JONES, Versailles, June 28, 1780.
+ Commodore in the Navy of the United States of America.
+
+ Sir: The King has already testified His approbation of the zeal
+ and valour which you have displayed in Europe, in support of the
+ common cause between the United States and His Majesty, and (p. 110)
+ He has also informed you of the distinguished proofs He is
+ disposed to give you thereof. Persuaded that the United States
+ will give their consent that you should receive the cross of the
+ institution of Military Merit, I send you, in the packet
+ addressed to M. de la Luzerne, the one designed for you. You will
+ be pleased to deliver him this packet, and he will confer on you
+ this distinction by a chevalier of the institution, agreeably to
+ His Majesty's orders. But at any rate that you should have a
+ proof of the King's approbation and munificence, His Majesty has
+ ordered a gold headed sword to be made for you, which will be
+ immediately delivered to you, and He has the greatest confidence
+ in the use you will make of it for His glory and that of the
+ United States.
+
+ I have the honour, etc.,
+ DE SARTINE.
+
+ _____
+
+_Resolution of Congress Authorizing Captain Jones to Accept from the
+King of France the Cross of Military Merit._
+
+IN CONGRESS.
+
+ The Committee to whom was referred the letter of May 30, 1780,
+ from M. de Sartine, delivered in a report, whereupon
+
+ _Resolved_, That the Congress entertain a high sense of the
+ distinguished bravery and military conduct of John Paul Jones,
+ Esq., captain in the navy of the United States, and particularly
+ in his victory over the British frigate Serapis on the coast of
+ England, which was attended with circumstances so brilliant as to
+ excite general applause and admiration.
+
+ That the Minister Plenipotentiary of these United States at the
+ Court of Versailles, communicate to His Most Christian Majesty
+ the high satisfaction Congress have received from the conduct and
+ gallant behaviour of Captain John Paul Jones, which have merited
+ the attention and approbation of His Most Christian Majesty, and
+ that His Majesty's offer of adorning Captain Jones with a Cross
+ of Military Merit is highly acceptable to Congress.
+
+ February 27, 1781.
+
+ _____
+
+_The United States to the King of France._
+
+IN CONGRESS, October 19, 1787.
+
+ The Secretary for Foreign Affairs reports that agreeably to the
+ order of the 16th, he hath prepared the following letter to His
+ Most Christian Majesty, which having been duly signed and
+ countersigned, was delivered to the Chevalier John Paul Jones.
+
+ GREAT AND BELOVED FRIEND:
+
+ We, the United States in Congress assembled, in consideration of
+ the distinguished marks of approbation with which Your Majesty
+ has been pleased to honour the Chevalier John Paul Jones, as (p. 111)
+ well as from a sense of his merit, have unanimously directed
+ a medal of gold to be struck and presented to him, in
+ commemoration of his valour and brilliant services, while
+ commanding a squadron of French and American ships under our flag
+ and commission, off the coast of Great Britain, in the late war.
+
+ As it is his earnest desire to acquire greater knowledge in his
+ profession, we cannot forbear requesting of Your Majesty to
+ permit him to embark in your fleets of evolution, where only it
+ will be probably in his power to acquire that degree of knowledge
+ which may hereafter render him more extensively useful.
+
+ Permit us to repeat to Your Majesty our sincere assurances that
+ the various and important benefits for which we are indebted to
+ your friendship will never cease to interest us in whatever may
+ concern the happiness of Your Majesty, your family, and people.
+
+ We pray God to keep you, our great and beloved friend, under his
+ holy protection.
+
+ Done at the city of New York, the nineteenth day of October, in
+ the year of our Lord 1787, and of our sovereignty and
+ independence the 12th.
+
+ _____
+
+_Thomas Jefferson to General Washington._
+
+ To General WASHINGTON. Paris, May 2, 1788.
+
+ Dear Sir: The war between the Russians and Turks has made an
+ opening for Commodore Paul Jones. The Empress has invited him
+ into her service. She insures to him the rank of a Rear Admiral
+ and will give him a separate command, and it is understood that
+ he is never to be commanded. I think she means to oppose him to
+ the Captain Pasha on the Black Sea. He is, by this time, probably
+ at St. Petersburg. The circumstances did not permit his awaiting
+ the permission of Congress, because the season was close at hand
+ for opening the campaign. But he has made it a condition that he
+ shall be free at all times to return to the orders of Congress,
+ whenever they shall please to call for him; and also that he
+ shall not, in any case, be expected to bear arms against France.
+ I believe Congress had it in contemplation to give him the grade
+ of Admiral from the date of his taking the Serapis. Such a
+ measure now would greatly gratify him, second the efforts of
+ fortune in his favour and better the opportunities of improving
+ him for our service, whenever the moment shall come in which we
+ may want him.
+
+ I have the honour to be Your Excellency's most obedient and most
+ humble servant,
+ Th: JEFFERSON.
+
+ _____
+
+_Admiral John Paul Jones to Thomas Jefferson._ (p. 112)
+
+ His Excellency On board the Wladimir,
+ Thomas JEFFERSON, Esq. Before Oczacoff,
+ August 20--September 9, 1788.
+
+ Sir: Some of my friends in America did me the honour to ask for
+ my bust. I enclose the names of eight gentlemen, to each of whom
+ I promised to send one. You will oblige me by desiring Mr. Houdon
+ to have them prepared and packed up, two and two; and if Mr.
+ Short, to whom I present my respects, will take the trouble to
+ forward them by good opportunities, via Havre de Grace, writing,
+ at the same time, a few words to each of these gentlemen, I shall
+ esteem it a particular favour.
+
+ Before I left Copenhagen, I wrote to Mr. Amoureux, merchant at
+ L'Orient, to dispose of some articles of mine in his hands, and
+ remit you the amount. I hope he has done it, and that his
+ remittance may be sufficient to pay Mr. Houdon, and the expense
+ of striking the medal with which I am honoured by the United
+ States. But lest this should not turn out as I expect, I have
+ directed Dr. Bancroft to pay any draft of yours on him for my
+ account, as far as four or five thousand livres. I shall want
+ four gold medals as soon as the dies are finished. I must present
+ one to the United States, another to the King of France, and I
+ cannot do less than offer one to the Empress. As you will keep
+ the dies for me, it is my intention to have some more gold medals
+ struck; therefore I beg you, in the meantime, not to permit the
+ striking of a single silver or copper medal.
+
+ I send enclosed an extract from my journal on my expedition from
+ France to Holland, in the year 1779, for the information of the
+ Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres. I trust, at the same
+ time, more to your judgment than to theirs. There is a medallist
+ who executed three medals for me in wax, one of them is the
+ battle between the Bonhomme Richard and the Serapis. The position
+ of the two ships is not much amiss; but the necessary figures are
+ much too near the principal objects; and he has placed them to
+ windward, instead of being as they really were, to leeward of the
+ Bonhomme Richard and Serapis. I do not at this moment recollect
+ the medallist's name, but he lives on the 3d or 4th stage, at a
+ marble cutter's almost opposite, but a little higher than your
+ former house, Cul-de-sac Rue Taitbout, and may be easily found.
+ It would be of use to see the medal he has made, although it is
+ by no means to be copied. I have not comprehended, in the extract
+ of my journal, the extreme difficulties I met with in Holland,
+ nor my departure from the Texel in the Alliance, when I was
+ forced out by the Vice Admiral Rhynst, in the face of the enemy's
+ fleet. The critical situation I was in, in Holland, needs no
+ explanation, and I shall not say how much the honour of the
+ American flag depended on my conduct, or how much it affected all
+ the belligerent powers. I shall only say it was a principal cause
+ of the resentment of England against Holland, and the war that
+ ensued. It is for you and the Academy to determine whether that
+ part of my services ought to be the subject of one side of the
+ medal.
+
+ I am, with perfect esteem and attachment, Your Excellency's most
+ obedient humble servant,
+ J. P. JONES.
+
+
+
+No. 18. (p. 113)
+PLATES XVIII and XIX.
+
+
+_April 30, 1789--March 4, 1797._
+
+ George Washington, President, 1792.
+
+PRESIDENT GEORGE WASHINGTON.
+
+[_First President of the United States of America._]
+
+General Washington in uniform and bareheaded, standing, facing the
+left, has just given the calumet of peace to an Indian chief, who is
+smoking it. The Indian, standing, facing the right, has a large medal
+suspended from around his neck; on the left, a pine tree; at its foot,
+a tomahawk; in the background, a farmer ploughing. Exergue: GEORGE
+WASHINGTON PRESIDENT. 1792.
+
+The arms and crest of the United States of America. Arms: Paleways of
+thirteen pieces, argent and gules, a chief, azure. The escutcheon on
+the breast of the American eagle, displayed proper, holding in his
+dexter talon an olive branch, and in his sinister a bundle of thirteen
+arrows,[62] all proper, and in his beak a scroll inscribed with this
+motto, E PLURIBUS UNUM (_One out of many_). Crest: Over the head of
+the eagle, which appears above the escutcheon, a glory, or, breaking
+through a cloud, proper, and surrounding thirteen stars forming a
+constellation, argent, on an azure field.[63]
+
+ [Footnote 62: The thirteen original States.]
+
+ [Footnote 63: See INTRODUCTION, page xxvi.]
+
+It was then customary with the Indians, when they made a treaty of
+peace, to simulate the burying of the tomahawk. In a speech of Red
+Jacket's to the Honorable Samuel Dexter, secretary of War, delivered
+at Philadelphia, February 11, 1802, is the following passage:
+"Brother, you offered to join with us in tearing up the largest pine
+tree in our forests, and under it to bury the tomahawk. We (p. 114)
+gladly join with you, brother, in this work, and let us heap rocks and
+stones on the root of this tree, that the tomahawk may never again be
+found."
+
+The engraving is a representation of the medal generally known as the
+Red Jacket medal, from its having been given by President Washington
+to the celebrated Seneca orator and chief Sa-go-ya-wat-ha (_He keeps
+them awake_), better known as Red Jacket, on the occasion of his visit
+to Philadelphia in March and April, 1792. On the death of this great
+chief of the Six Nations of the State of New York (Mohawks, Oneidas,
+Onondagas, Cayugas, Senecas, and Tuscaroras), in 1830, it passed into
+the hands of his nephew the Seneca chief So-sa-wa (_Corpulent man_),
+James Johnson. It now belongs to James Johnson's grand-nephew,
+Do-ne-ho-ga-wa (_Open door_), General Ely S. Parker, who served during
+the Civil War on the staff of General U.S. Grant. He was afterward for
+some time commissioner of Indian Affairs, and is now living in the
+city of New York. It is owing to the politeness of General Parker that
+I am able to give an engraving of this, the only well-authenticated
+Washington Indian peace medal, although similar ones were given during
+his administration to different Indian chiefs, as will be seen from
+the following extract from a message addressed by General Knox, then
+secretary of War, to the Choctaw nation, and dated Philadelphia,
+February, 17, 1792: "Brothers, your father, General Washington, sends
+you two great silver medals--you will point out the two great chiefs
+who are to receive these marks of distinction."
+
+General Parker says that this medal was made by Dr. Rittenhouse, who
+was director of the United States Mint at Philadelphia from 1792 till
+1795, that these medals were of three sizes from President Jefferson
+to President Fillmore's administration, and that they were given to
+Indian chiefs according to their rank. Since then they have been made
+of two sizes only.
+
+
+
+No. 19. (p. 115)
+PLATE XX.
+
+
+_April 30, 1790._
+
+ To Peace and Commerce. [Rx]. The United States of America.
+
+THE DIPLOMATIC MEDAL.
+
+TO PEACE AND COMMERCE. To the left, America, personified as an Indian
+queen, seated, facing the right, and holding in her left hand the
+cornucopia of abundance (_Peace_), welcomes Mercury (_Commerce_) to
+her shores, and with her right calls his attention to her products,
+packed ready for transportation. In the background, to the right, the
+sea, and a ship under full sail. Exergue: IV JUL. MDCCLXXVI. (_4
+Julii, 1776: July 4, 1776_).
+
+THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. The arms and crest of the United States
+of America. Arms: Paleways of thirteen pieces, argent and gules, a
+chief, azure. The escutcheon on the breast of the American eagle,
+displayed proper, holding in his dexter talon an olive branch, and in
+his sinister a bundle of thirteen arrows,[64] all proper, and in his
+beak a scroll inscribed with this motto, E PLURIBUS UNUM (_One out of
+many_). Crest: Over the head of the eagle, which appears above the
+escutcheon: a glory, or, breaking through a cloud, proper, and
+surrounding thirteen stars forming a constellation, argent, on an
+azure field.[65]
+
+ [Footnote 64: The thirteen original States.]
+
+ [Footnote 65: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xxix and
+ xxx.]
+
+Only two of these Diplomatic medals have thus far been awarded, one to
+the Marquis de la Luzerne and the other to the Count de Moustier.
+
+
+CESAR ANNE DE LA LUZERNE was born in Paris in 1741. He was (p. 116)
+graduated at the Chevau-legers school, became aide-de-camp to the Duke
+de Broglie; was appointed major-general of cavalry in 1762; and
+colonel of the French grenadiers in 1776. Quitting the army, he
+entered the diplomatic service, and was envoy to the court of
+Maximilian Joseph, Elector of Bavaria, in 1766, and minister to the
+United States in 1779-1784. He contracted, under his own
+responsibility, a loan to relieve the distress of the American army in
+1780; received from Harvard College the degree of LL.D. in 1781, and
+the same from Dartmouth College in 1782. He was appointed ambassador
+to England in January, 1788. Thomas Jefferson, then secretary of
+State, wrote to him, April 30, 1790, by order of President Washington,
+conveying to him an express acknowledgment of his services, and of the
+high appreciation of them by the government and people of America,
+informing him also that, by order of the President of the United
+States, a medal and a chain of gold would be prepared and delivered to
+him by the charge d'affaires of the United States at the court of
+France. The Marquis de la Luzerne died in London, September 14, 1791,
+before the medal was finished.
+
+
+ELEONORE FRANCOIS ELIE, COUNT, AFTERWARD MARQUIS, DE MOUSTIER, was
+born in Paris, March 15, 1751. He entered the army when but fourteen
+years of age, and at sixteen was sub-lieutenant in the Royal Navarre
+cavalry; captain in the Dauphin dragoons 1771; mestre-de-camp, 1777,
+and soon after marechal-de-camp; and lieutenant-general, 1816.
+Entering the diplomatic service in 1771, he first served as
+gentilhomme d'ambassade in Lisbon, then as conseiller d'ambassade in
+London, 1772; was charge d'affaires at Naples, and in 1777, minister
+to the court of Treves, He was sent on a special mission to England in
+1783, and as minister to the United States in 1787. In 1790 he
+declined the mission to the court of St. James, and went as ambassador
+to Berlin. Thomas Jefferson, then secretary of State, informed him,
+March 2, 1791, by order of President Washington, that a medal and a
+chain of gold would be presented to him by Mr. Short, in the name of
+the United States of America. In September, 1791, he declined the
+ministry of Foreign Affairs, emigrated in 1792, and came back to
+France with Louis XVIII. in 1814. The Marquis de Moustier died at
+Bailli, near Versailles, February 1, 1816.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 117)
+
+_John Adams to the President of Congress._
+
+ To His Excellency
+ John JAY, Braintree, August 3, 1779.
+ President of Congress.
+
+ Sir: The Chevalier de la Luzerne is a Knight of the Order of St.
+ John of Jerusalem, of an ancient and noble family, connected by
+ blood with many characters of principal name in the kingdom; a
+ grandson of the celebrated Chancellor de la Moignon; a nephew of
+ Monsieur Malesherbes, perhaps still more famous as first
+ President of the Court of Aids, and as Minister of State, a
+ brother of the Comte de la Luzerne, and of the Bishop of Langres,
+ one of the three Dukes and Peers who had the honour to assist in
+ the consecration of the King; a near relative of the Marshal de
+ Broglie, and the Comte his brother, and of many other important
+ personages in that country; nor is his personal character less
+ respectable than his connections. As he is possessed of much
+ useful information of all kinds, and particularly of the
+ political system of Europe, obtained in his late Embassy in
+ Bavaria; and of the justest sentiments of the mutual interests of
+ his country and ours, and of the utility to both of that alliance
+ which so happily unites them, and at the same time divested of
+ all personal and party attachments and aversions, Congress and
+ their constituents, I flatter myself, will have much satisfaction
+ in his negotiations, as well as in those of the Secretary to the
+ Embassy, Monsieur Marbois, who was also Secretary to the Embassy
+ in Bavaria, and is a Counsellor of the Parliament of Metz, a
+ gentleman whose abilities, application and disposition cannot
+ fail to make him useful in this momentous office he sustains.
+
+ I have the honour to be with great respect, Sir,
+ Your most obedient and most humble servant,
+ John ADAMS.
+
+ _____
+
+_Thomas Jefferson to William Short._
+
+ To
+ William SHORT, Esquire, New York, April 30th, 1790.
+ Charge d'Affaires of the United States of America,
+ Paris.
+
+ Dear Sir: It has become necessary to determine on a present
+ proper to be given to diplomatic characters on their taking leave
+ of us; and it is concluded that a medal and chain of gold will be
+ the most convenient. I am therefore to ask the favour of you to
+ order the dies to be engraved with all the despatch practicable.
+ The medal must be of 30-lines diameter, with a loop on the edge
+ to receive the chain. On one side must be the arms of the United
+ States, of which I send you a written description, and (p. 118)
+ several impressions in wax, to render that more intelligible;
+ round them as a legend must be "The United States of America."
+ The device on the other side we do not decide on; one suggestion
+ has been a Columbia (a fine female figure) delivering the emblems
+ of Peace and Commerce to a Mercury, with the legend "Peace and
+ Commerce" circumscribed, and the date of our Republic, to-wit: IV
+ Jul. MDCCLXXVI, subscribed as an Exerguum; but having little
+ confidence in our own ideas in an art not familiar here, they are
+ only suggested to you, to be altered, or altogether postponed to
+ such better device as you may approve on consulting with those
+ who are in the habit and study of medals. Duvivier and Dupre seem
+ to be the best workmen, perhaps the last is the best of the two.
+
+ I am with great and sincere esteem,
+ Thomas JEFFERSON.
+
+ _____
+
+_Thomas Jefferson to the Marquis de la Luzerne._
+
+ To His Excellency
+ THE MARQUIS DE LA LUZERNE. New York, April 30th, 1790.
+
+ Sir: When in the course of your Legation to the United States
+ your affairs rendered it necessary that you should absent
+ yourself a while from that station, we flattered ourselves with
+ the hopes that that absence was not final. It turned out in
+ events that the interests of your Sovereign called for your
+ talents, and the exercise of your functions in another quarter.
+ You were pleased to announce this to the former Congress through
+ their Secretary for Foreign Affairs, at a Time when that body was
+ closing its Administration, in order to hand it over to a
+ Government, then preparing on a different model. This Government
+ is now formed, organized and in action, and it considers among
+ its earliest duties and assuredly among its most cordial, to
+ testify to you the Regret which the People and Government of the
+ United States felt at your Removal from among them; a very
+ general and sincere regret, and tempered only by the consolation
+ of your personal advancement which accompanied it. You will
+ receive, Sir, by order of the President of the United States, as
+ soon as it can be prepared, a Medal and chain of gold, of which
+ he desires your acceptance, in token of their Esteem and of the
+ sensibility with which they will ever recall your Legation to
+ their memory.
+
+ But as this compliment may hereafter be rendered to other
+ missions, from which yours was distinguished by eminent
+ circumstances, the President of the United States wishes to pay
+ you the distinguished tribute of an express acknowledgment of
+ your services, and our sense of them. You came to us, Sir,
+ through all the perils which encompassed us on all sides. You
+ found us struggling and suffering under difficulties as singular
+ and trying as our situation was new and unprecedented. Your
+ magnanimous nation had taken side with us in the conflict and
+ yourself become the center of our common councils, the link which
+ connected our common operations.
+
+ In that position you laboured without ceasing, till all labours
+ were crowned with glory to your nation, Freedom to ours, and
+ Benefit to both. During the whole we had constant evidence (p. 119)
+ of your Zeal, your abilities, and your good Faith; and we desire
+ to convey this Testimony of it home to your own Breast and to that
+ of your Sovereign, our best and greatest Friend, and this I do,
+ Sir, in the name and by the express Instruction of the President
+ of the United States.
+
+ I feel how flattering it is to me, Sir, to be the organ of the
+ public sense on this occasion, and to be justified by that office
+ in adding to theirs, the homage of those sentiments of respect
+ and esteem with which I have the honour to be,
+
+ Your Excellency's most obedient and most humble servant,
+ Thomas JEFFERSON.
+
+ _____
+
+_William Short to Thomas Jefferson._
+
+ To the Honourable Paris, June the 14th, 1790.
+ Thomas JEFFERSON,
+ Secretary of State.
+
+ Dear Sir:
+ - - - - -
+
+ I received three days ago the first letters which have come to my
+ hands from you since your arrival in New York. That of the latest
+ date was April 30th. I communicated to Mr. de Montmorin[66] also
+ the copy of the letter to Mr. de la Luzerne, which he desired I
+ should allow him to retain.
+
+ I shall employ Dupre to execute the medal you mention, after
+ having consulted with the Abbe Barthelemi, respecting those parts
+ which are left undecided, and no time shall be lost in forwarding
+ the business.
+ - - - - -
+ Wm. SHORT.
+
+ [Footnote 66: Minister of Foreign Affairs of Louis
+ XVI.]
+
+ _____
+
+_Thomas Jefferson to William Short._
+
+ To
+ William SHORT, Esquire, New York, July 26th, 1790.
+ Charge d'Affaires of the United States of America,
+ Paris.
+
+ Dear Sir:
+ - - - - -
+
+ As I presume the die will be finished by the time you receive
+ this, I am to desire you will have a medal of gold struck for the
+ Marquis de la Luzerne, and have put to it a chain of 365 links,
+ each link containing gold of the value of two dollars and a half,
+ or 13 livres 10 sous, the links to be of plain wire, so that
+ their workmanship may cost as it were nothing. The whole will
+ make a present of a little more than a thousand dollars,
+ including the medal and chain. As soon as done, be pleased
+ to forward them by a safe hand to the Marquis de la Luzerne, (p. 120)
+ in the name of the President of the United States, informing him
+ that it is the one spoken of in my letter to him of April 30th,
+ 1790. Say nothing to anybody of the value of the present, because
+ that will not always be the same in all cases. Be so good as to
+ have a second medal of gold struck in the same die, and to send
+ this second, together with the dies, to Philadelphia by the first
+ safe person who shall be passing. No chain to be sent with it.
+
+ I am with great and sincere esteem,
+ Th: JEFFERSON.
+
+ _____
+
+_Thomas Jefferson to the Count de Moustier._
+
+ To
+ THE COUNT DE MOUSTIER. Philadelphia, March 2d, 1791.
+
+ Sir: I have received your favour of November 6th, wherein you
+ inform me that the King has thought proper, by a new mission to
+ the Court of Berlin, to put an end to your functions as his
+ Minister Plenipotentiary with the United States.
+
+ The President, in a letter to the King, has expressed his sense
+ of your merit, and his entire approbation of your conduct while
+ here, and has charged me to convey to yourself the same
+ sentiments on his part.
+
+ Had you returned to your station with us, you would have received
+ new and continued marks of the esteem inspired by the general
+ worth of your character, as well as by the particular
+ dispositions you manifested towards this country.
+
+ Amidst the regrets excited by so early a loss of you, it will be
+ a consolation, if your new situation shall contribute to advance
+ your own happiness.
+
+ As a testimony of these sentiments, we ask the acceptance of a
+ medal and chain of gold, with which Mr. Short is instructed to
+ present you on the part of the United States.
+
+ To this general tribute, permit me to add my own, with sincere
+ wishes for your constant happiness, and assurances of the respect
+ and esteem with which
+ I have the honour to be, Sir,
+ Your most obedient and most humble servant,
+ Th: JEFFERSON.
+
+ _____
+
+_Thomas Jefferson to William Short._
+
+ To
+ William SHORT, Esquire. Philadelphia, March 8th, 1791.
+
+ Dear Sir: You are directed to have a medal struck from the
+ diplomatic die, formerly ordered, and to present it with a chain
+ of gold to the Count de Moustier, who is notified that this will
+ be done by you. I formerly informed you that we proposed to (p. 121)
+ vary the worth of the present by varying the size of the links of
+ the chain, which are fixed at 365 in number. Let each in the
+ present instance contain six livres worth of gold, and let it be
+ made of plain wire, so that the value may be in the metal and not
+ at all in the workmanship. I shall hope to receive the dies
+ themselves when a safe conveyance presents itself.
+ I am, with great esteem,
+ Th: JEFFERSON.
+
+ _____
+
+_William Short to Thomas Jefferson._
+
+ To the Honourable
+ Thomas JEFFERSON, Paris, June 6th, 1791.
+ Secretary of State.
+
+ Dear Sir: The medal which you desire to be made for Mr. de
+ Moustier shall be executed as soon as I can have the "coins"
+ [dies] finished. You will no doubt be much astonished at this
+ delay, but the engraver has been so devoted to the affair of
+ their money, which is contending for by all the artists, that it
+ has been impossible to get him to finish the work he had
+ undertaken for the United States, and which was nearly completed
+ last fall. This delay cannot last much longer, and he assures me
+ he will shorten it as much as possible. He is to write a letter
+ that I may send it to Mr. de la Luzerne and show him that the
+ delay does not proceed from me. I don't know by what opportunity
+ to send you the dies; there is no other than by the public
+ carriages to Havre, and at present they would be stopped and
+ examined by several of the municipalities, who would take them,
+ from their weight, to be specie to be exported, which they do not
+ allow, notwithstanding the decrees of the assembly....
+
+ Wm. SHORT.
+
+ _____
+
+_William Short to Thomas Jefferson._
+
+ To the Honourable
+ Thomas JEFFERSON, Paris, September 25th, 1791.
+ Secretary of State.
+
+ Dear Sir: You will have heard of the death of Mr. de la Luzerne
+ in England. The dies for the medal destined for him have been
+ retarded in a most unexpected manner on account of the engraver
+ being employed here in the new coinage. Previous to the death of
+ Mr. de la Luzerne, I explained to him the cause of this delay and
+ sent him a letter from the engraver on the subject, which he
+ answered by a desire that the national work should be first
+ performed. The dies were since completed, but unfortunately one
+ of them failed, as often happens, in the hardening.
+
+ The engraver is now employed in repairing this evil and says it
+ will be done in two or three weeks.
+
+ I suppose it so certain that this medal should be given to (p. 122)
+ Mr. de la Luzerne's representative, that as soon as it is
+ ready I shall mention the subject to Mr. de Montmorin and follow
+ his advice respecting it.
+
+ Dear Sir, Yours affectionately,
+ Wm. SHORT.
+
+ _____
+
+_William Short to M. Dupre._
+
+ Monsieur:[67]
+
+ Comme je ne pense pas que vous ignoriez que la medaille pour
+ l'Amerique, dont le coin a peri a l'epreuve du balancier, est
+ promise depuis longtemps a des personnes d'un caractere distingue
+ sans doute vous ne serez pas surpris de l'interet que je prends a
+ ce que ni la delicatesse des donateurs ni l'empressement des
+ legataires soient compromis.
+
+ Or je ne vois, Monsieur, qu'un seul moyen de l'eviter, c'est de
+ remettre aux donateurs, pour le moment, la seule epreuve que le
+ coin a permis et qui est entre vos mains; ce moyen, en ecartant
+ tout soupcon de negligence de ma part, evite aussi aux Etats-Unis
+ le desagrement de paraitre avoir oublie ses promesses.
+
+ Veuillez donc bien, Monsieur, vous preter a cet arrangement, dont
+ les personnes interessees ne manqueront pas certainement de vous
+ tenir compte, vos droits sur la fabrication n'etant, d'ailleurs,
+ que retardes, puisque le coin doit etre refait.
+
+ Je vous prie donc, Monsieur, de remettre la medaille au porteur,
+ afin que je puisse la presenter pour remedier, en quelque sorte,
+ a l'accident, et dans le cas ou vous penseriez devoir la retenir,
+ veuillez bien m'en informer par ecrit afin que je puisse me
+ justifier de toute autre maniere vis-a-vis les personnes
+ interessees.
+
+ Je suis tres-parfaitement, Monsieur, etc.
+
+ [Footnote 67: The original of this letter, without
+ date or signature, which is in French, and which
+ was communicated to me in Paris by M. Narcisse
+ Dupre, is undoubtedly in the handwriting of Mr.
+ William Short.]
+
+[Translation.]
+
+_William Short to M. Dupre._
+
+ Sir: As I do not suppose that you are ignorant that the medal for
+ America, of which the die was broken in the coining press, has
+ been for a long time promised to distinguished persons, you will
+ no doubt not be surprised at the interest which I take that
+ neither the delicacy of the donors nor the desire of the legatees
+ should be compromised.
+
+ Now, Sir, I see only one means of avoiding this, that is to give
+ to the donors, for the time being, the only proof which the die
+ has permitted and which is in your hands; this, while removing
+ all suspicion of negligence on my part, prevents also the United
+ States from occupying the disagreeable position of appearing to
+ have forgotten its promises.
+
+ Be good enough therefore, Sir, to lend yourself to this (p. 123)
+ arrangement, which the interested persons will most certainly not
+ fail to acknowledge; your rights upon the making being besides
+ only retarded, since a new die must be made.
+
+ I beg you therefore, Sir, to hand the medal to the bearer, so
+ that I may present it to remedy, in some degree, the accident;
+ and in case you think you ought to retain it, be kind enough to
+ inform me thereof in writing, so that I may justify myself in
+ every way to the interested parties.
+
+ I am, very truly, Sir, etc.
+
+ _____
+
+_M. de Moustier to M. Dupre._
+
+ A
+ Monsieur DUPRE,
+ Graveur, place Dauphine, 10.
+
+ J'ai eu d'autant plus de regret, Monsieur, du retard qu'a eprouve
+ l'execution de la medaille qui m'a ete destinee par le
+ gouvernement des Etats-Unis, que j'ai appris qu'il etait du a des
+ causes qui ont du vous contrarier. J'espere qu'une troisieme
+ operation aura un succes complet. Je le desire plus vivement
+ depuis que j'ai vu par l'empreinte en metal qui est chez Mr.
+ Short, combien cette medaille est agreable a produire par un
+ Francois en pays etranger qui aime a y faire valoir ses
+ compatriotes. Lorsqu'elle sera achevee, je vous serai fort oblige
+ de vouloir bien me la remettre, puisque Mr. Short doit
+ s'absenter.
+
+ J'ai l'honneur d'etre tres-parfaitement, Monsieur, votre
+ tres-humble et tres-obeissant serviteur,
+ F. DE MOUSTIER.
+
+[Translation.]
+
+ To
+ M. DUPRE,
+ Engraver, Place Dauphine, 10.
+
+ I have had the more regret, Sir, at the delay which has happened
+ to the execution of the medal destined for me by the Government
+ of the United States, since I have learned that it was due to
+ causes which have been annoying to you. I hope that a third trial
+ will prove a complete success. I desire it the more ardently
+ since I have seen by the impression in metal at Mr. Short's how
+ gratifying its exhibition will be for a Frenchman abroad who
+ loves to do honor to his compatriots. When it shall be finished I
+ will be much obliged to you if you will please have it sent to
+ me, since Mr. Short is about to leave.
+
+ I have the honor to be very truly, Sir, your most humble and very
+ obedient servant,
+ F. DE MOUSTIER.
+
+ _____
+
+_William Short to Thomas Jefferson._ (p. 124)
+
+ To the Honourable
+ Thomas JEFFERSON, Paris, February 8th, 1792.
+ Secretary of State.
+
+ Dear Sir: The diplomatic medals ordered so long ago and delayed
+ so unexpectedly for the reasons already given to you have been at
+ length completed and delivered with their chains, that for Mr. de
+ la Luzerne to Mr. de Montmorin, and that for Mr. de Moustier to
+ himself.
+
+ I inclose you copies of their prices--the originals with the
+ receipts remain in my hands for your directions--they were paid
+ for, together with 2,400 livres, to the engraver Dupre, by a
+ draft on the bankers at Amsterdam, the whole amounting, as you
+ will see, to 14,570 livres, the exchange, 32-1/2, made 3,946.1.
+ The nominal price of the chains was more than 6 livres and 13
+ livres 10--gold having risen on account of the assignats, but the
+ exchange having lowered in a greater proportion, the price is
+ less in florins than it would otherwise have been. The gold
+ employed in the chains was of 20 karats, the usual alloy, and
+ weighed the first 4m. 5o. 4-1/2gr. 31d., and the second 1m. 6o.
+ 4gr. The gold of the medals was finer, according to usage. I had
+ only two golden medals struck. The six of bronze will await your
+ orders.
+
+ Your obedient servant,
+ Wm. SHORT.
+
+ _____
+
+_M. Lagrange to William Short._
+
+ A Monsieur SHORT: Paris ce 31 Janvier 1792.
+
+ J'ai l'honneur de vous prevenir que les deux medailles et les
+ etuis sont prets. Je vous serais oblige de les faire retirer a la
+ monnoye des medailles ainsi que les six medailles de bronze.
+
+ Les 2 medailles d'or pesent 2m. 4on. 1gr. a 175_l._ l'once 3434_l._
+ 2 belieres en or a 6_l._ chaque 12
+ 6 medailles de bronze a 7_l._ chaque 42
+ 2 etuis de galuchet[68] 142
+ ----
+ Total 3630
+
+ J'ai l'honneur d'etre Monsieur votre tres humble et tres
+ obeissant serviteur,
+ LAGRANGE,
+ Caissier de la Monnoye des Medailles.
+
+ [Footnote 68: Galuchet, prepared shark-skins.]
+
+ _____
+
+Memoire de deux grandes chaines d'or fournies a Monsieur Short par
+Auguste, orfevre du Roi.
+
+ _Petite Chaine._ A l'epoque ou l'or etait a 110_l._ l'once, (p. 125)
+ chaque maillon de cette chaine devait couter 6_l._, maintenant
+ que l'or vaut 133_l._ 6-8. Ce qui est plus du 6eme en sus de
+ son ancien prix, celui de chaque chainon revient a 7_l._, ce
+ qui eleve le total des
+
+ 365 chainons a la somme de 2555_l._
+ L'anneau et l'S de cette chaine valeur 65
+ ----
+ 2620
+
+ _Grande Chaine._ Chaque maillon de la grande chaine qui par la
+ meme raison ne devait couter que 13_l._ 10 revient au prix de
+ 16_l._, ce qui fait pour le total des
+
+ 365 chainons a la somme de 5840_l._
+ Pour l'anneau et l'S de cette chaine valeur 80
+ ----
+ 5920
+ ----
+ Total des deux chaines 8540_l._
+
+[Translation.]
+
+_M. Lagrange to William Short._
+
+ To Mr. SHORT. Paris, January 31, 1792.
+
+ I have the honor to advise you that the two medals and the cases
+ are ready. I would be obliged to you to have them taken from the
+ Mint of Medals, as also the six medals in bronze.
+
+ The two gold medals weigh 2m. 4oz. 1gr.[69]
+ At 175 livres[70] the ounce 3,434 livres
+ 2 loop-rings in gold at 6 livres each 12
+ 6 medals in bronze at 7 livres each 42
+ 2 galuchet cases 142
+ -----
+ Total 3,630
+
+ I have the honor to be, Sir, your very humble and very obedient
+ servant,
+ LAGRANGE,
+ Cashier of the Mint of Medals.
+
+ [Footnote 69: Former weights of France: 1 livre = 2
+ marcs = 16 ounces = 128 gros = 384 deniers = 9,216
+ grains.]
+
+ [Footnote 70: Former moneys of France: 1 livre = 20
+ sous = 240 deniers or 48 liards. 1 livre = 0.9876
+ francs.]
+
+ _____
+
+Account of the two large gold chains furnished to Mr. Short by
+Auguste, goldsmith to the king.
+
+ _Small Chain._ At the time when gold was worth 110 livres the
+ ounce, each link of this chain was to cost 6 livres; now that
+ gold is worth 133 livres, 6 sous, 8 deniers, which is more (p. 126)
+ than one-sixth above its former price, that of each link
+ comes to 7 livres, which increases the total of the
+
+ 365 links to the sum of 2,555_l._
+ The ring and the S of this chain, cash 65_l._
+ -----
+ 2,620_l._
+
+ _Large Chain._ Each link of the large chain, which for the same
+ reason was to cost only 13 livres, 10 sous, comes to 16 livres,
+ which makes for the total of
+
+ 365 links the sum of 5,840_l._
+ For the ring and the S of this chain, cash 80_l._
+ -----
+ 5,920_l._
+ -----
+ Total for both chains 8,540_l._
+
+
+
+No. 20. (p. 127)
+PLATE XXI.
+
+
+_March 4, 1797--March 4, 1801._
+
+ John Adams President of the U.S. A.D. 1797. [Rx]. Peace and
+ friendship.
+
+PRESIDENT JOHN ADAMS.
+
+[_Second President of the United States of America._]
+
+JOHN ADAMS PRESIDENT OF THE U. S. (_United States_) A. D. (_Anno
+Domini: The year of our Lord_) 1797. Bust of President John Adams,
+facing the right.
+
+PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP. Two hands clasped in token of amity; on the cuff
+of the left wrist three stripes, and buttons with the American eagle
+on them; the other wrist bare; above the hands, a calumet and a
+tomahawk crossed--Indian emblems of peace and war.
+
+
+JOHN ADAMS was born at Braintree, now Quincy, Massachusetts, October
+19, 1735. He was graduated at Harvard College in 1755, studied law, and
+settled in Boston in 1768; he was a delegate to Congress, 1774-1778;
+serving on the Boards of Naval and of Foreign Affairs, and also on the
+Board of War; commissioner to France, 1778; to Holland, 1780; minister
+to Holland, 1782; to England, 1785-1788; vice-president of the United
+States, 1789-1793; President of the United States, 1797-1801. He
+retired to Quincy in 1801, and died there, July 4, 1826, on the
+fiftieth anniversary of the Independence of the United States, and on
+the same day with Thomas Jefferson.
+
+
+
+
+No. 21. (p. 128)
+PLATE XXII.
+
+
+_February 2, 1800._
+
+ Patriae. patres. filio. digno. Thomas Truxtun. [Rx]. United State
+ frigate Constellation, of 38 guns, &c.
+
+CAPTAIN THOMAS TRUXTUN.
+
+[_Action with the Vengeance._]
+
+PATRIAE. PATRES. FILIO. DIGNO. THOMAS TRUXTUN. (_The fathers of the
+country to their worthy son, Thomas Truxtun._) Bust of Captain
+Truxtun, in uniform, facing the left.
+
+UNITED STATES FRIGATE CONSTELLATION OF 38 GUNS PURSUES ATTACKS AND
+VANQUISHES THE FRENCH SHIP LA VENGEANCE OF 54 GUNS 1 FEBY.
+(_February_) 1800. Naval action between the United States frigate
+Constellation, of thirty-eight guns, Captain Truxtun, and the French
+frigate La Vengeance, of fifty-four guns, Captain Pitot. The
+Constellation has lost her main mast. Exergue: BY VOTE OF CONGRESS, TO
+THOMAS TRUXTUN 29 MAR. (_March_) 1800.[71]
+
+ [Footnote 71: See INTRODUCTION, pages xxiii and
+ xxxi.]
+
+The engraving is an exact representation of the original gold medal,
+at present the property of Thomas Truxtun Houston, jr., of Washington,
+the great-grandson, in the female line, of Commodore Truxtun.
+
+
+THOMAS TRUXTON was born in Jamaica, Long Island, New York, February
+15, 1755. He served as lieutenant and captain of privateers during the
+War of Independence. In 1782, while engaged in carrying Mr. Thomas
+Barclay, United States consul-general, to France, he beat off a (p. 129)
+British frigate of thirty-two guns. After the war he commanded East
+Indiamen, but in 1794, on the creation of the American Navy, he
+received a commission as captain, and was appointed to the
+Constellation, of thirty-eight guns. In 1799, he captured
+l'Insurgente, a French frigate of thirty-six guns, Captain Barreault.
+His celebrated engagement with La Vengeance, of fifty-four guns,
+Captain Pitot, took place February 2, 1800, and for this exploit
+Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold medal. He afterward
+commanded the President, of forty-four guns. In 1802, Mr. Smith,
+secretary of the Navy under President Jefferson, having interpreted as
+a resignation Truxtun's refusal to accept the command of the
+Mediterranean squadron, unless a flag captain was given him, the
+country was deprived of this gallant officer's services. He retired to
+New Jersey, and afterward removed to Philadelphia, where he was
+high-sheriff of the city and county from 1816 to 1819, and where he
+died, May 5, 1822.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolutions of Congress Voting a Medal to Captain Truxtun, etc._
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States be requested to present to Captain
+ Thomas Truxtun a golden medal, emblematical of the late action
+ between the United States frigate Constellation, of thirty-eight
+ guns, and the French ship of war La Vengeance, of fifty-four, in
+ testimony of the high sense entertained by Congress of his
+ gallantry and good conduct in the above engagement, wherein an
+ example was exhibited by the Captain, officers, sailors, and
+ marines, honourable to the American name, and instructive to its
+ rising navy.
+
+ _Resolved_: That the conduct of James Jarvis, a midshipman in
+ said frigate, who gloriously preferred certain death to an
+ abandonment of his post, is deserving of the highest praise, and
+ that the loss of so promising an officer is a subject of national
+ regret.
+
+ Approved March 29, 1800.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Thomas Truxtun to the Secretary of the Navy._ (p. 130)
+
+ To
+ Benjamin STODDART, Esq., United States ship Constellation,
+ Secretary of the Navy. At sea, February 3, 1800.
+
+ Sir: On the 30th ult. I left St. Christopher's, with the
+ Constellation, in excellent trim, and stood to windward in order
+ to gain the station for myself before the road of Guadaloupe; and
+ at half-past seven in the morning of the day following I
+ discovered a sail to the south-east, to which I gave chase, and
+ for the further particulars of that chase, and the action after
+ it, I must beg to refer to the extracts from my journal,
+ herewith, as being the best mode of exhibiting a just and candid
+ account of all our transactions in the late business, which has
+ ended in the almost entire dismantlement of the Constellation,
+ though, I trust, to the high reputation of the American flag.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Thos. TRUXTUN.
+
+_Occurrences on board the United States ship Constellation, of
+thirty-eight guns, under my command, February 1, 1800_:
+
+ Throughout these twenty-four hours very unsettled weather; kept
+ on our tacks, beating up under Guadaloupe, and at half-past seven
+ in the morning, the road of Basseterre bearing east, five leagues
+ distant, saw a sail in the south-east standing to the south-west,
+ which, from her situation, I at first took for a large ship from
+ Martinique, and hoisted English colours in giving chase, by way
+ of inducement for her to come down and speak me, which would have
+ saved us a long chase to leeward off my intended cruising ground;
+ but finding she did not attempt to alter her course, I examined
+ her more minutely, as we approached her, and discovered that she
+ was a heavy French frigate, mounting at least fifty-four guns. I
+ immediately gave orders for the yards to be slung with chains,
+ top-sail sheets, &c., stoppered, and the ship cleared, and
+ everything prepared for action, and hauled down the English
+ colours. At noon the wind became light, and I observed the chase
+ that we had before been gaining fast on held way with us, but I
+ was determined to continue the pursuit, though the running to
+ leeward, I was convinced, would be attended with many serious
+ disadvantages, especially if the object of my wishes were not
+ gratified.
+
+ Passed two schooners standing to the northward, one of these
+ showed American colours, and was a merchant vessel, and the other
+ I supposed to be of the same description.
+
+ February 2d, at one P.M., the wind being somewhat fresher than
+ at the noon preceding, and an appearance of its continuance, our
+ prospect of bringing the enemy to action began to brighten, as I
+ perceived we were coming up with the chase fast, and every inch
+ of canvas being set that could be of service, except the bog
+ reefs which I kept in the topsails, in case of the chase, finding
+ an escape from our thunder impracticable, should haul on a wind
+ and give us fair battle. But this did not prove to be her
+ commander's intention. I, however, got within hail of him at 8
+ P.M., hoisted our ensign, and had the candles in the battle (p. 131)
+ lanterns all lighted, and the large trumpet in the lee-gangway
+ ready to speak him, and to demand the surrender of his ship to
+ the United States of America; but he, at that instant, commenced
+ a fire from his stern and quarter guns, directed at our rigging
+ and spars. No parley being then necessary, I sent my principal
+ aid-de-camp, Mr. Vandyke, to the different officers commanding
+ divisions on the main battery, to repeat strictly my orders,
+ before given, not to throw away a single charge of powder, but to
+ take good aim and fire directly into the hull of the enemy, and
+ load principally with two round shot, and now and then with a
+ round shot and stand of grape, &c., to encourage the men at their
+ quarters; to cause or suffer no noise or confusion whatever; but
+ to load and fire as fast as possible when it could be done with
+ certain effect. These orders being given, in a few moments I
+ gained a position on his weather quarter that enabled us to
+ return, effectually, his salute; and thus a close and as sharp an
+ action as ever was fought between two frigates, commenced and
+ continued until within a few minutes of 1 A.M., when the enemy's
+ fire was completely silenced, and he was again sheering off.
+
+ It was at this moment that I considered him as my prize, and was
+ trimming, in the best manner I could, my much shattered sails,
+ when I found the mainmast was totally unsupported by rigging,
+ every shroud being shot away, and some of them in several places,
+ that even stoppers were useless, and could not be applied with
+ effect. I then gave orders for the officers to send the men up
+ the gun-deck to endeavour to secure it, in order that we might
+ get alongside of the enemy again as soon as possible; but every
+ effort was in vain, for the mainmast went over the side a few
+ minutes after, and carried with it the top-men, among whom was an
+ amiable young gentleman who commanded the maintop, Mr. James
+ Jarvis, son of James Jarvis, Esq., of New York. It seems that
+ this young gentleman was apprized of the mast going in a few
+ minutes by an old seaman, but he had already so much of the
+ principle of an officer ingrafted on his mind, not to leave his
+ quarters on any account, that he told the men if the mast went
+ they must go with it, which was the case, and only one of them
+ was saved.
+
+ I regret much his loss, as a promising young officer and amiable
+ young man, as well as on account of a long intimacy that has
+ subsisted between his father and myself; but have great
+ satisfaction in finding that I have lost no other, and only two
+ or three slightly wounded, out of thirty-nine killed and
+ wounded--fourteen of the former, and twenty-five of the latter.
+
+ As soon as the mainmast went every effort was made to clear the
+ wreck from the ship as soon as possible, which was effected in
+ about an hour. It being impossible to pursue the enemy, and as
+ her security was the great object, I immediately bore away for
+ Jamaica, for repairs, etc., finding it impossible to reach a
+ friendly port in any of the islands to windward.
+
+ I should be wanting in common justice were I to omit here to
+ journalize the steady attention to order, and the great exertion
+ and bravery of all my officers, seamen and marines, in this
+ action, many of whom I had sufficiently tried before, on a
+ similar occasion, and all their names are recorded in the
+ muster-roll I sent to the Secretary of the Navy, dated the
+ nineteenth of December last, signed by myself.
+
+ All hands employed at repairing the damages sustained in the (p. 132)
+ action, so far as to get the ship into Jamaica as soon as
+ possible.
+
+ Thomas TRUXTUN.
+
+ _____
+
+_President John Adams to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To
+ B. STODDART, Philadelphia, March 31, 1800.
+ Secretary of the Navy.
+
+ The President of the United States requests the Secretary of the
+ Navy to take immediate measures for carrying into execution the
+ resolution of Congress of the 29th, for presenting to Captain
+ Thomas Truxtun a gold medal, emblematical of the late action
+ between the United States frigate Constellation, of thirty-eight
+ guns, and the French ship-of-war La Vengeance, of fifty-four, in
+ testimony of the high sense entertained by Congress of his
+ gallantry and good conduct in the above engagement, wherein an
+ example was exhibited by the captain, officers, sailors and
+ marines, honourable to the American name, and instructive to its
+ rising navy.
+
+ John ADAMS.
+
+ _____
+
+_John Adams to Captain Thomas Truxtun._
+
+ To
+ CAPTAIN THOMAS TRUXTUN, U.S.N. Quincy, November 30th, 1802.
+
+ Sir: I have many apologies to make for omitting so long to
+ acknowledge the receipt of your obliging favour of the 10th of
+ July. The copy you have done me the honour to present me, of the
+ medal voted by Congress, and executed according to my directions
+ to the Secretary of the Navy, I accept with great pleasure, not
+ only from my personal regard to the giver, but because I esteem
+ every laurel conferred upon you, for the glorious action of the
+ 1st of March, 1800, as an honour done to our beloved country.
+ From both of these motives I have been highly gratified with the
+ honour the gentlemen of Lloyd's Coffee House have done themselves
+ in the handsome acknowledgment they have made of their
+ obligations to you. I regret that the artist had not completed
+ the medal in season, that I might have had the satisfaction of
+ presenting it to an officer who has so greatly deserved it; and I
+ lament still more that I had not the power of promoting merit to
+ its just rank in the navy, that of an admiral.
+
+ The counsel which Themistocles gave to Athens, Pompey to Rome,
+ Cromwell to England, De Witt to Holland, and Colbert to France, I
+ have always given and shall continue to give to my countrymen,
+ that, as the great questions of commerce and power between
+ nations and empires must be decided by a military marine, and war
+ and peace are determined at sea, all reasonable encouragement
+ should be given to the navy. The trident of Neptune is the
+ sceptre of the world.
+
+ I am, Sir, etc.,
+ John ADAMS.
+
+
+
+No. 22. (p. 133)
+PLATE XXIII.
+
+
+_March 4, 1801--March 4, 1809._
+
+ Th. Jefferson President of the U.S. A.D. 1801. [Rx]. Peace and
+ friendship.
+
+PRESIDENT THOMAS JEFFERSON.
+
+[_Third President of the United States of America._]
+
+TH. (_Thomas_) JEFFERSON PRESIDENT OF THE U.S. (_United States_) A.D.
+(_Anno Domini: The year of our Lord_) 1801. Bust of President
+Jefferson, facing the left.
+
+PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP. Two hands clasped in token of amity: on the cuff
+of the left wrist three stripes and as many buttons; on the other, the
+American eagle; above the hands, a calumet and a tomahawk
+crossed--Indian emblems of peace and war.[72]
+
+ [Footnote 72: See INTRODUCTION, pages xxiv and
+ xxvi.]
+
+This medal bears no signature, but as the smaller size of the same is
+marked R. (_Reich_), it is presumable that both are the work of that
+engraver.
+
+
+JOHN REICH, a native of Germany, came to America by the advice of
+Henry Voigt, chief coiner of the United States Mint, who on his
+arrival took him into his employ to make scales and other fine work.
+Mr. Scott took him afterward as an assistant to make dies, but tried
+in vain to have him appointed by the government. Reich made the Preble
+and Hull medals and the Indian medals of Presidents Jefferson and
+Madison. He died in Albany, State of New York, in 1833.
+
+
+THOMAS JEFFERSON was born at Shadwell, Albemarle County, Virginia,
+April 2, 1743. He studied at William and Mary College, Virginia, and
+was admitted to the bar in 1767. He was a member of the House of (p. 134)
+Burgesses, of Virginia, from 1769 till the Revolution; was delegate to
+the Continental Congress in 1775; wrote the Declaration of
+Independence, 1776; was governor of Virginia, 1779-1781; member of
+Congress, 1782; minister to France, 1785-1789; secretary of State to
+President Washington, 1790-1793; vice-president of the United States,
+1797-1801; President (first term), 1801-1805; (second term),
+1805-1809. He then retired to his estate of Monticello, in Albemarle
+County, Virginia, and died there, July 4, 1826, on the fiftieth
+anniversary of the Independence of the United States, and on the same
+day with John Adams.
+
+
+
+No. 23. (p. 135)
+PLATE XXIV.
+
+
+_1804._
+
+ Edwardo Preble duci strenuo Comitia Americana. [Rx]. Vindici
+ commercii Americani.
+
+COMMODORE EDWARD PREBLE.
+
+[_Naval operations against Tripoli._]
+
+EDWARDO PREBLE DUCI STRENUO COMITIA AMERICANA. (_The American Congress
+to Edward Preble, a valiant officer._) Bust of Commodore Preble, in
+uniform, facing the left. On edge of bust, R. (_Reich_).
+
+VINDICI COMMERCII AMERICANI. (_To the vindicator of American
+commerce._) The United States fleet, commanded by Commodore Preble, is
+bombarding Tripoli. Exergue: ANTE TRIPOLI MDCCCIV. (_Off Tripoli,
+1804_).[73]
+
+ [Footnote 73: See INTRODUCTION, pages xxiv and
+ xxx.]
+
+
+EDWARD PREBLE was born at Falmouth Neck, now Portland, Maine, August
+15, 1761. He served as midshipman and lieutenant during the War of
+Independence, was appointed lieutenant in the navy in 1798, and
+commanded the brig Pickering. In 1799 he became captain, and was
+appointed to the Essex. Owing to ill health he was unemployed till
+1803, when he was given the command of the squadron sent against
+Tripoli. For his skill and bravery on this expedition Congress gave
+him a vote of thanks and a gold medal. In 1806, President Jefferson
+offered him the Navy Department, which he declined on account of ill
+health. He died in Portland, August 25, 1807.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 136)
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to Commodore Preble._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ thanks of Congress be, and the same are hereby, presented to
+ Commodore Edward Preble, and through him to the officers, seamen,
+ and marines attached to the squadron under his command, for their
+ gallantry and good conduct displayed in the several attacks on
+ the town, batteries and naval force of Tripoli, in the year one
+ thousand eight hundred and four.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to cause a gold medal to be struck, emblematical of the attacks
+ on the town, batteries, and naval force of Tripoli, by the
+ squadron under Commodore Preble's command, and to present it to
+ Commodore Preble in such a manner as, in his opinion, will be
+ most honourable to him; and that the President be further
+ requested to cause a sword to be presented to each of the
+ commissioned officers and midshipmen who have distinguished
+ themselves in the several attacks.
+
+ _Resolved_, That one month's pay be allowed, exclusively of the
+ common allowance, to all the petty officers, seamen, and marines,
+ of the squadron, who so gloriously supported the honour of the
+ American flag, under the orders of their gallant commander, in
+ the several attacks.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be also
+ requested to communicate to the parents, or other near relatives,
+ of Captain Richard Somers, Lieutenants Henry Wadsworth, James
+ Decatur, James R. Caldwell, Joseph Israel, and Midshipman John
+ Sword Dorsey, the deep regret which Congress feel for the loss of
+ those gallant men, whose names ought to live in the recollections
+ and affections of a grateful country, and whose conduct ought to
+ be regarded as an example to future generations.
+
+ Approved March 3, 1805.
+
+ _____
+
+_President Thomas Jefferson to Congress._
+
+ Washington, D. C., February 20th, 1805.
+
+ TO THE SENATE AND HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES.
+
+ I communicate, for the information of Congress, a letter of
+ September 18, from Commodore Preble, giving a detailed account of
+ the transactions of the vessels under his command, from July the
+ 9th to the 10th of September, last past.
+
+ The energy and judgment displayed by this excellent officer,
+ through the whole course of the service lately confided to him,
+ and the zeal and bravery of his officers and men in the several
+ enterprizes executed by them, cannot fail to give high
+ satisfaction to Congress and their country, of whom they have
+ deserved well.
+
+ Th: JEFFERSON.
+
+ _____
+
+_Commodore Preble to the Secretary of the Navy._ (p. 137)
+
+ To the Honourable
+ SECRETARY OF THE UNITED STATES NAVY,
+ Washington, D. C. United States ship Constitution,
+ Malta Harbour, September 18th, 1804.
+
+ Sir: I had the honour to write you from Messina, under date of
+ the 5th of July; I then expected to have sailed the day
+ following, but was detained, by bad weather, until the 9th, when
+ I left it, with two small bomb vessels under convoy, and arrived
+ at Syracuse, where we were necessarily detained four days. On the
+ 14th I sailed, the schooners Nautilus and Enterprize in company,
+ with six gun boats and two bomb vessels, generously loaned us by
+ His Sicilian Majesty. The bomb vessels are about thirty tons,
+ carry a thirteen-inch brass sea mortar, and forty men. Gun boats,
+ twenty-five tons, carry a long iron twenty-four pounder in the
+ bow, with a complement of thirty-five men. They are officered and
+ manned from the squadron, excepting twelve Neapolitan
+ bombardiers, gunners, and sailors, attached to each boat, who
+ were shipped by permission of their Government. This step I found
+ necessary, as every vessel in the squadron was considerably short
+ of complement. The gun boats are constructed for the defence of
+ harbours; they are flat bottomed and heavy, and do not sail or
+ row even tolerably well. They were never intended to go to sea,
+ and, I find, cannot be navigated with safety, unless assisted by
+ tow ropes from larger and better sailing vessels, nor even then,
+ in very bad weather; however, as they were the best I could
+ obtain, I have thought it for the good of our service to employ
+ them, particularly as the weather in July and August is generally
+ pleasant, and, without them, my force too small to make any
+ impression on Tripoli.
+
+ On the 16th of July we arrived at Malta, where we were detained
+ by contrary gales until the 21st, when we left it, and arrived in
+ sight of Tripoli the 25th, and were joined by the Syren, Argus,
+ Vixen and Scourge. Our squadron now consisted of the
+ Constitution, three brigs, three schooners, two bombs, and six
+ gun-boats, our whole number of men one thousand and sixty. I
+ proceeded to make the necessary arrangements for an attack on
+ Tripoli, a city well walled, protected by batteries judiciously
+ constructed, mounting one hundred and fifteen pieces of heavy
+ cannon, and defended by twenty-five thousand Arabs and Turks; the
+ harbour protected by nineteen gun-boats, two galleys, two
+ schooners of eight guns each, and a brig mounting ten guns,
+ ranged in order of battle, forming a strong line of defence, at
+ secure moorings, inside a long range of rocks and shoals,
+ extending more than two miles to the eastward of the town, which
+ form the harbour, protects them from the northern gales, and
+ renders it impossible for a vessel of the Constitution's draught
+ of water to approach near enough to destroy them, as they are
+ sheltered by the rocks, and can retire under that shelter to the
+ shore, unless they choose to expose themselves in the different
+ channels and openings of the reefs, for the purpose of annoying
+ their enemies. Each of their gunboats mounts a heavy eighteen or
+ twenty-six pounder in the bow, and two brass howitzers on their
+ quarters, and carry from thirty-six to fifty men. The galleys
+ have each one hundred men, schooners and brigs about the same
+ number. The weather was not favourable for anchoring until the
+ 28th, when, with the wind E. S. E., the squadron stood in (p. 138)
+ for the coast, and at 3 P.M. anchored, per signal, Tripoli
+ bearing S. two and a half miles distant. At this moment the wind
+ shifted suddenly from E. S. E. to N. N. W., and from thence to N.
+ N. E. At 5 o'clock it blew strong, with a heavy sea, setting
+ directly on shore. I made the signal to prepare to weigh. At 6,
+ the wind and sea having considerably increased the signal was
+ made for the squadron to weigh and gain an offing. The wind
+ continued veering to the eastward, which favoured our gaining
+ sea-room without being obliged to carry so great a press of sail
+ as to lose any of our gunboats, although they were in great
+ danger. The gale continued varying from N. E. to E. S. E. without
+ increasing much, until the 31st, when it blew away our reefed
+ foresail, and close-reefed main-topsail; fortunately, the sea did
+ not rise in proportion to the strength of the gale, or we must
+ have lost all our boats. August 1st the gale subsided, and we
+ stood towards the coast: every preparation was made for an attack
+ on the town and harbour. August 3d, pleasant weather, wind East;
+ stood in with the squadron towards Tripoli. At noon we were
+ between two or three miles from the batteries, which were all
+ manned, and observing several of their gunboats and galleys had
+ advanced, in two divisions, without the rocks, I determined to
+ take advantage of their temerity. At half-past 12 I wore off
+ shore, and made the signal to come within hail, when I
+ communicated to each of the commanders my intention of attacking
+ the enemy's shipping and batteries. The gun and mortar boats were
+ immediately manned and prepared to cast off, the gunboats in two
+ divisions of three each; the first division commanded by Captain
+ Somers, in No. 1; Lieutenant Decatur in No. 2, and Lieutenant
+ Blake in No. 3; the second division commanded by Captain Decatur,
+ in No. 4, Lieutenant Bainbridge in No. 5, and Lieutenant Trippe
+ in No. 6. The two bombards were commanded by Lieutenant-Commandant
+ Dent, and Mr. Robinson, First Lieutenant of this ship. At
+ half-past 1 o'clock, having made the necessary arrangements for
+ the attack, wore ship and stood towards the batteries. At 2
+ signal made to cast off the boats; at a quarter-past 2 signal for
+ bombs and gunboats to advance and attack the enemy. At half-past
+ 2 general signal for battle. At three-quarters-past 2 the bombs
+ commenced the action, by throwing shells into the town. In an
+ instant the enemy's shipping and batteries opened a tremendous
+ fire, which was promptly returned by the whole squadron within
+ grape-shot distance; at the same time the second division, of
+ three gunboats, led by the gallant Captain Decatur, was
+ advancing, with sails and oars, to board the eastern division of
+ the enemy, consisting of nine boats. Our boats gave the enemy
+ showers of grape and musket balls as they advanced; they,
+ however, soon closed, when the pistol, sabre, pike and tomahawk
+ were made good use of by our brave tars. Captain Somers, being in
+ a dull sailer, made the best use of his sweeps, but was not able
+ to fetch far enough to windward to engage the same division of
+ the enemy's boats which Captain Decatur fell in with; he,
+ however, gallantly bore down with his single boat on five of the
+ enemy's western division, and engaged within pistol shot,
+ defeated and drove them within the rocks, in a shattered
+ condition, and with the loss of a great number of men. Lieutenant
+ Decatur, in No. 2, was closely engaged with one of the enemy's
+ largest boats of the eastern division, which struck to him, after
+ having lost a large proportion of men, and, at the instant that
+ brave officer was boarding her to take possession, he was (p. 139)
+ treacherously shot through the head by the captain of the
+ boat that had surrendered, which base conduct enabled the
+ poltroon (with the assistance he received from the other boats)
+ to escape. The third boat of Captain Somers' division kept to
+ windward, firing at the boats and shipping in the harbour; had
+ she gone down to his assistance, it is probable several of the
+ enemy's boats would have been captured in that quarter. Captain
+ Decatur, in No. 4, after having, with distinguished bravery,
+ boarded and carried one of the enemy of superior force, took his
+ prize in tow, and gallantly bore down to engage a second, which,
+ after a severe and bloody conflict, he also took possession of.
+ These two prizes had thirty-three officers and men killed, and
+ twenty-seven made prisoners, nineteen of which were badly
+ wounded. Lieutenant Trippe, of the Vixen, in No. 6, ran alongside
+ of one of the enemy's large boats, which he boarded with only
+ Midshipman John Henley and nine men, his boat falling off before
+ any more could get on board; thus was he left, compelled to
+ conquer or perish, with the odds of _thirty-six_ to _eleven_. The
+ Turks could not withstand the ardour of this brave officer and
+ his assistants; in a few minutes the decks were cleared, and her
+ colours hauled down. On board of this boat fourteen of the enemy
+ were killed, and twenty-two made prisoners, seven of which were
+ badly wounded. The rest of their boats retreated within the
+ rocks. Lieutenant Trippe received eleven sabre wounds, some of
+ which are very severe; he speaks in the highest terms of Mr.
+ Henley, and those who followed him. Lieutenant Bainbridge, in No.
+ 5, had his latteen yard shot away early in the action, which
+ prevented his getting alongside the enemy's boats, but he galled
+ them by a steady and well directed fire, within musket shot;
+ indeed he pursued the enemy until his boat grounded under the
+ batteries; she was, fortunately, soon got off. The bomb vessels
+ kept their stations, although covered with the spray of the sea
+ occasioned by the enemy's shot. They were well conducted by
+ Lieutenants Dent and Robinson, who kept up a constant fire from
+ the mortars, and threw a great number of shells into the town.
+ Five of the enemy's gunboats, and two galleys, composing the
+ centre division, and stationed within the rocks, as a reserve,
+ joined by the boats that had been driven in, and supplied by
+ fresh men from the shore to replace those they had lost, twice
+ attempted to row out, to endeavour to surround our gunboats and
+ their prizes: I as often made the signal to cover them, which was
+ promptly attended to by the brigs and schooners, all of which
+ were gallantly conducted, and annoyed the enemy exceedingly, but
+ the fire from this ship kept their flotilla completely in check.
+ Our grape shot made great havoc among their men, not only on
+ board their shipping, but on shore. We were several times within
+ two cables length of the rocks, and within three of their
+ batteries, every one of which, in succession, were silenced, so
+ long as we could bring our broadside to bear upon them; but the
+ moment we passed a battery, it was re-animated, and a constant,
+ heavy fire kept up from all that we could not point our guns at.
+ We suffered most when wearing or tacking; it was then I most
+ sensibly felt the want of another frigate. At half-past four, the
+ wind inclining to the northward, I made the signal for the bombs
+ and gunboats to retire from action, and, immediately after, the
+ signal to tow off the gunboats and prizes, which was handsomely
+ executed by the brigs, schooners, and boats of the squadron,
+ covered by a heavy fire from the Constitution. At three-quarters
+ past 4, P.M., the light vessels, gunboats, and prizes being (p. 140)
+ out of reach of the enemy's shot, I hauled off to take the
+ bomb vessels in tow. We were two hours under the fire of the
+ enemy's batteries, and the only damage received in the ship is a
+ twenty-four pound shot nearly through the centre of the mainmast,
+ thirty feet from the deck; main royal yard and sail shot away;
+ one of our quarter-deck guns damaged by a thirty-two pound shot,
+ which, at the same time, shattered a mariner's arm; two lower
+ shrouds and two backstays were shot away, and our sails and
+ running rigging considerably cut. We must impute our getting off
+ thus well to our keeping so near that they overshot us, and to
+ the annoyance our grape shot gave them; they are, however, but
+ wretched gunners. Gunboat No. 5 had her main yard shot away, and
+ the rigging and sails of the brigs and schooners were
+ considerably cut. Lieutenant Decatur was the only officer killed,
+ but in him the service has lost a valuable officer. He was a
+ young man who gave strong promise of being an ornament to his
+ profession. His conduct in the action was highly honourable, and
+ he _died nobly_. The enemy must have suffered very much in killed
+ and wounded, both among the shipping and on shore. Three of their
+ gunboats were sunk in the harbour, several of them had their
+ decks nearly cleared of men by our shot, and a number of shells
+ burst in the town and batteries, which must have done great
+ execution. The officers, seamen, and marines, of the squadron
+ behaved in the most gallant manner. The Neapolitans, in emulating
+ the ardour of our seamen, answered my highest expectations.
+
+ I cannot but notice the active exertions and officer-like conduct
+ of Lieutenant Gordon, and the other lieutenants of the
+ Constitution. Mr. Harriden, the master, gave me full
+ satisfaction, as did all the officers and ship's company. I was
+ much gratified with the conduct of Captain Hall and Lieutenant
+ Greenleaf, and the marines belonging to his company, in the
+ management of six long twenty-six pounders, on the spar-deck,
+ which I placed under his direction. Captain Decatur speaks in the
+ highest terms of the conduct of Lieutenant Thorn and Midshipman
+ McDonough, of No. 4, as does Captain Somers of Midshipmen Ridgely
+ and Miller, attached to No. 1.
+
+ Annexed is a list of killed and wounded, and, enclosed, a copy of
+ my general orders on this occasion:
+
+ _Killed._ Gunboat No. 2: Lieutenant James Decatur.
+
+ _Wounded._ Constitution: one marine; gunboat No. 4: Captain
+ Decatur (slightly), one sergeant of marines and two seamen;
+ gunboat No. 6: Lieutenant Trippe (severely), one boatswain's mate
+ and two marines; gunboat No. 1: two seamen; gunboat No. 2: two
+ seamen. Total, one killed, thirteen wounded.
+
+ _August 5._ We were at anchor with the squadron about two leagues
+ north from the city of Tripoli; the Argus in chase of a small
+ vessel to the westward, which she soon came up with, and brought
+ within hail; she proved to be a French privateer, of four guns,
+ which put into Tripoli a few days since, for water, and left it
+ this morning. I prevailed on the captain, for a consideration, to
+ return to Tripoli, for the purpose of landing fourteen very badly
+ wounded Tripolitans, which I put on board his vessel, with a
+ letter to the Prime Minister, leaving it at the option of the
+ Bashaw to reciprocate this generous mode of conducting the war.
+ The sending these unfortunate men on shore, to be taken care of
+ by their friends, was an act of humanity on our part, which (p. 141)
+ I hope will make a proper impression on the minds of the
+ barbarians, but I doubt it. All hands were busily employed in
+ altering the rig of the three prizes from latteen vessels to
+ sloops, and preparing for a second attack. Observed one of the
+ enemy's schooners and the brig (two corsairs in the harbour) to
+ be dismasted; was informed by the French captain that the damage
+ these vessels received in the action of the 3d had occasioned
+ their masts being taken out.
+
+ _August 7th._ The French privateer came out, and brought me a
+ letter from the French Consul, in which he observes, that our
+ attack of the 3d instant has disposed the Bashaw to accept of
+ reasonable terms, and invited me to send a boat to the rocks with
+ a flag of truce, which was declined, as the white flag was not
+ hoisted at the Bashaw's castle. At 9 A.M., with a very light
+ breeze from the eastward, and a strong current which obliged the
+ Constitution to remain at anchor, I made the signal for the light
+ vessels to weigh, and the gun and bomb boats to cast off, and
+ stand in shore toward the western batteries; the prize boats
+ having been completely fitted for service, and the command of
+ them given to Lieutenants Crane, of the Vixen, Thorn, of the
+ Enterprize, and Caldwell, of the Syren, the whole advanced with
+ sails and oars. The orders were for the bombs to take a position
+ in a small bay to the westward of the city, where but few of the
+ enemy's guns could be brought to bear on them, but from whence
+ they could annoy the town with shells; the gunboats to silence a
+ battery of seven heavy guns which guarded the approach to that
+ position, and the brigs and schooners to support them, in case
+ the enemy's flotilla should venture out. At half-past one P.M.,
+ a breeze from N. N. E., I weighed with the Constitution and stood
+ in for the town; but the wind being on shore, made it imprudent
+ to engage the batteries with the ship, as, in case of a mast
+ being shot away, the loss of the vessel would probably ensue,
+ unless a change of wind should favour our getting off. At
+ half-past two P.M., the bomb and gun boats having gained their
+ station, the signal was made for them to attack the town and
+ batteries. Our bombs immediately commenced throwing shells, and
+ the gunboats opened a sharp and well directed fire on the town
+ and batteries, within point blank shot, which was warmly returned
+ by the enemy. The seven gun battery, in less than two hours, was
+ silenced, except one gun; I presume the others were dismounted by
+ our shot, as the walls were almost totally destroyed. At a
+ quarter-past three P.M., a ship hove in sight to the northward,
+ standing for the town; made the Argus signal to chase. At
+ half-past three, one of our prize gunboats was blown up by hot
+ shot from the enemy, which passed through her magazine: she had
+ on board twenty-eight officers, seamen, and marines, ten of whom
+ were killed, and six wounded; among the killed were James R.
+ Caldwell, First Lieutenant of the Syren, and Midshipman John S.
+ Dorsey, both excellent officers; Midshipman Spence and eleven men
+ were taken up unhurt. Captain Decatur, whose division this boat
+ belonged to, and who was near at the time she blew up, reports to
+ me that Mr. Spence was superintending the loading of the gun at
+ that moment, and, notwithstanding the boat was sinking, he and
+ the brave fellows surviving, finished charging, gave three cheers
+ as the boat went from under them, and swam to the nearest boats,
+ where they assisted during the remainder of the action. The
+ enemy's gunboats and galleys (fifteen in number) were all in
+ motion close under the batteries, and appeared to meditate an
+ attack on our boats; the Constitution, Nautilus, and Enterprize,
+ were to windward, ready, at every hazard, to cut them off (p. 142)
+ from the harbour, if they should venture down; while the
+ Syren and Vixen were near our boats, to support and cover any
+ that might be disabled. The enemy thought it most prudent,
+ however, to retire to their snug retreat behind the rocks, after
+ firing a few shot. Our boats, in two divisions, under Captains
+ Somers and Decatur, were well conducted, as were our bomb
+ vessels, by Lieutenants Dent and Robinson. The town must have
+ suffered much from this attack, and their batteries, particularly
+ the seven gun battery, must have lost many men. At half-past five
+ P.M., the wind began to freshen from the N. N. E., I made the
+ signal for the gun and bomb boats to retire from action, and for
+ the vessels to which they were attached to take them in tow. The
+ Argus made signal that the strange sail was a friend.
+
+ In this day's action No. 4 had a twenty-four pound shot through
+ her hull; No. 6 her latteen yard shot away; No. 8 a twenty-four
+ pound shot through her hull, which killed two men; some of the
+ other boats had their rigging and sails considerably cut. We
+ threw forty-eight shells, and about five hundred twenty-four
+ pound shot into the town and batteries. All the officers and men
+ engaged in the action behaved with the utmost intrepidity. At
+ half-past six all the boats were in tow, and the squadron
+ standing to the northwest. At eight, the John Adams, Captain
+ Chauncey, from the United States, joined company. At nine the
+ squadron anchored, Tripoli bearing southeast, five miles distant.
+ Gunboat No. 3 was this day commanded by Mr. Brooks, master of the
+ Argus, and No. 6 by Lieutenant Wadsworth, of the Constitution.
+
+ Annexed is a return of our loss in this attack.
+
+ _Killed._ Gunboat No. 9: One lieutenant, one midshipman, one
+ boatswain's mate, one quarter gunner, one sergeant of marines,
+ and five seamen; Gunboat No. 8: Two seamen.
+
+ _Wounded._ Gunboat No. 9: Six seamen, two of whom mortally.
+ Total, twelve killed, six wounded.
+
+ Captain Chauncey brought me the first positive information that
+ any reinforcement was to be expected. By him I was honoured with
+ your letters of the 7th, 22d, and 31st of May, informing me that
+ four frigates were coming out, under Commodore Barren, who is to
+ supersede me in the command of our naval forces in these seas, at
+ the same time approbating my conduct, and conveying to me the
+ thanks of the President for my services. I beg you, Sir, to
+ accept my warmest thanks for the very obliging language in which
+ you have made these communications, and to assure the President
+ that to merit the applause of my country is my only aim, and to
+ receive it the highest gratification it can bestow.
+
+ Captain Chauncey informed me that the frigates might be expected
+ every moment, as they were to sail from Hampton Roads four days
+ after him. In consequence of this information (and as I could not
+ bring the John Adams into action, she having left all her gun
+ carriages for her gun deck, except eight, on board the Congress
+ and Constellation, a day or two previous to her sailing), I
+ determined to wait a few days for the arrival of Commodore
+ Barron, before another attack, when, if he should arrive, the
+ fate of Tripoli must be decided in a few hours, and the Bashaw
+ completely humbled. Had the John Adams brought out her gun
+ carriages, I should not have waited a moment, and can have (p. 143)
+ no doubt but the next attack would make the arrival of more
+ ships unnecessary for the termination of the Tripoline war. I
+ gave Captain Chauncey orders to remain on the station, that we
+ might be benefited by the assistance of his boats and men, as
+ nearly half the crews of the Constitution, brigs and schooners,
+ were taken out to man the bombs, gun and ship's boats when
+ prepared for an attack.
+
+ _August 9th._ We were engaged supplying the bombs and gunboats
+ with ammunition and stores, and getting everything in readiness
+ for an attack, the moment Commodore Barron should arrive and make
+ the signal. I cannot but regret that our naval establishment is
+ so limited as to deprive me of the means and glory of completely
+ subduing the haughty tyrant of Tripoli, while in the chief
+ command; it will, however, afford me satisfaction to give my
+ successor all the assistance in my power. At three P.M. I went
+ on board the Argus, for the purpose of reconnoitering the harbour
+ of Tripoli; we stood in towards the town, and were near being
+ sunk by the enemy's fire; one of their heaviest shot, which
+ struck about three feet short of the water line, raked the copper
+ off her bottom under water, and cut the plank half through. In
+ the evening the wind blew strong from the N. N. E.; the squadron
+ weighed, and kept under sail all night. The day following we
+ anchored, Tripoli bearing S. S. W., six miles distant. At ten A.M.
+ the French Consul hoisted a white flag at his flagstaff, under
+ the national colours, which was a signal that the Bashaw was
+ ready to treat. I sent a boat into the harbour, and took this
+ opportunity to forward Captain Bainbridge, and his officers,
+ letters from their friends. The boat was not allowed to land, but
+ returned in the afternoon, and brought me a letter, advising that
+ the Bashaw was ready to receive five hundred dollars for the
+ ransom of each of the prisoners, and terminate the war, without
+ any consideration for peace or tribute. This is three hundred and
+ fifty thousand dollars less than was demanded previous to the
+ action of the 3d instant. These terms I did not hesitate to
+ reject, as I was informed by Captain Chauncey that it was the
+ expectation of our Government, on the arrival of four frigates,
+ to obtain the release of the officers and crew of the
+ Philadelphia without ransom, and dictate the terms of peace. I
+ enclose you copies of our correspondence, which will convince you
+ that our attacks have not been made without effect.
+
+ _August 16th._ No news of the frigates, and but short allowance
+ of water in the squadron. I sent the Enterprize to Malta, with
+ orders to the agent there to hire transports, and send off
+ immediately a supply of fresh water, provision, and other stores
+ which have become necessary, as some of the squadron have now
+ been upwards of five months in sight of this dismal coast,
+ without once visiting a friendly port. Those vessels, as well as
+ the gunboats, received their supply of water and provisions from
+ the Constitution.
+
+ _August 18th._ As the season is fast approaching when we may
+ expect bad weather, and no news of the frigates, I have
+ determined to make an attack as soon as the wind proves
+ favourable. At eight P.M. I sent Captains Decatur and Chauncey,
+ in two small boats, to reconnoitre the harbour, and observe the
+ disposition of the enemy's flotilla at night. They returned at
+ midnight, and reported that they were anchored in a line abreast,
+ from the mole to the Bashaw's castle, with their heads to the
+ eastward, for the defence of the inner harbour. At daylight (p. 144)
+ the wind shifted suddenly from northeast to north-northwest, and
+ brought a heavy sea on shore, which obliged us, for greater
+ safety, to weigh and stand to sea.
+
+ _August 20th._ We had gained an offing of nine or ten leagues;
+ still blowing hard. We had met with the ketch Intrepid, from
+ Syracuse, with a cargo of fresh water, stock, and vegetables, for
+ the squadron.
+
+ _August 22d._ Fell in with a ship from Malta, with water and live
+ stock for the squadron. These cargoes arrived very opportunely,
+ as we have for some time past been on a short allowance of water.
+ The wind having moderated, we stood in and anchored with the
+ squadron, six miles northeast by north from Tripoli. All the
+ boats were engaged in discharging the transports. The Enterprize
+ arrived from Malta, but brought no intelligence of the long
+ expected frigates.
+
+ _August 24th._ With a light breeze from the northeast, we stood
+ in with the squadron, prepared for action, intending to attack
+ the town and shipping in the night. At eight in the evening,
+ anchored about two and a half miles from the batteries. At
+ midnight it fell calm. I sent the bomb vessels, under the
+ protection of the gunboats, to bombard the town; the boats of the
+ squadron were employed in towing them in. At two A.M. the
+ bombardment commenced, and continued until daylight, but with
+ what effect is uncertain. At six all the boats joined us, and
+ were taken in tow by the squadron, which was under weigh and
+ standing off. At seven, anchored four miles north of the town.
+ The weather for several days, proved unfavourable for approaching
+ the shore.
+
+ _August 28th._ We were favoured with a pleasant breeze from the
+ eastward; at three P.M. we weighed, and stood in for Tripoli; at
+ five, anchored the Constitution, two miles north by east from
+ Fort English, and two miles and a half from the Bashaw's castle;
+ the light vessels ordered to keep under way; we were employed
+ until eight P.M. in making arrangements for attacking the town;
+ a number of the officers, and many of the seamen, of the
+ Constitution being attached to the bomb, gun and ship's boats;
+ Captain Chauncey, with several of his officers, and about seventy
+ seamen and marines, volunteered their services on board the
+ Constitution. All the boats in the squadron were officered and
+ manned, and attached to the several gunboats. The two bomb
+ vessels could not be brought into action, as one was leaky and
+ the mortar-bed of the other had given way. The John Adams,
+ Scourge, transports and bombs, were anchored seven miles to the
+ northward of the town. Lieutenant Commander Dent, of the Scourge,
+ came on board the Constitution, and took charge on the gun-deck.
+ Lieutenant Izard, of the Scourge, also joined me. Lieutenant
+ Gordon commands gunboat No. 2, and Lieutenant Lawrence, of the
+ Enterprize, No. 5; these are the only changes. At half past one,
+ A.M., the gunboats, in two divisions, led by Captains Decatur
+ and Somers, were ordered to advance and take their stations close
+ to the rocks at the entrance of the harbour, within grape-shot
+ distance of the Bashaw's castle. The Syren, Argus, Vixen,
+ Nautilus, Enterprize, and boats of the squadron accompanied them.
+ At three, A.M., the boats anchored with springs on, within
+ pistol shot of the rocks, and commenced a brisk fire on the
+ shipping, town, batteries, and Bashaw's castle, which was warmly
+ returned, but not as well directed. The ship's boats remained
+ with the gunboats, to assist in boarding the enemy's (p. 145)
+ flotilla, if it should venture out, while the brigs and schooners
+ kept under way, ready for the same service, or for annoying the
+ enemy as occasion might present. At daylight, presuming that the
+ gunboats had nearly expended their ammunition, we weighed with
+ the Constitution, and stood in for the harbour. Fort English, the
+ Bashaw's castle, crown and mole batteries, kept up a heavy fire
+ upon us as we advanced. At half past five, I made the signal for
+ the gunboats to retire from action, and for the brigs and
+ schooners to take them in tow. We were then within two cables
+ length of the rocks, and commenced a heavy fire of round and
+ grape on thirteen of the enemy's gunboats and galleys, which were
+ in pretty close action with our boats. We sunk one of the enemy's
+ boats, at the same time, two more, disabled, ran on shore to
+ avoid sinking; the remainder immediately retreated. We continued
+ running in until we were within musket shot of the crown and mole
+ batteries, when we brought to and fired upwards of three hundred
+ round shot, besides grape and canister, into the town, Bashaw's
+ castle, and batteries. We silenced the castle and two of the
+ batteries for some time. At a quarter past six, the gunboats
+ being all out of shot and in tow, I hauled off, after having been
+ three-quarters of an hour in close action. The gunboats fired
+ upwards of four hundred round shot, besides grape and canister,
+ with good effect. A large Tunisian galliot was sunk in the mole.
+ A Spanish ship, which had entered with an ambassador from the
+ Grand Seignor, received considerable damage. The Tripoline
+ galleys and gunboats lost many men, and were much cut. The
+ Bashaw's castle and town have suffered very much; as have their
+ crown and mole batteries.
+
+ Captains Decatur and Somers conducted their divisions of gunboats
+ with their usual firmness and address, and were well supported by
+ the officers and men attached to them. The brigs and schooners
+ were also well conducted during the action, and fired a number of
+ shot at the enemy, but their guns are too light to do much
+ execution. They suffered considerably in their sails and rigging.
+ The officers and crew of the Constitution behaved well. I cannot,
+ in justice to Captain Chauncey, omit noticing the very able
+ assistance I received from him on the quarter-deck of the
+ Constitution during the whole of the action. The damage which we
+ have received is principally above the hull. Three lower shrouds,
+ two spring stays, two top-mast back stays, trusses, chains, and
+ lifts of the main yard, shot away. Our sails had several cannon
+ shot through them, and were beside considerably cut by grape;
+ much of our running rigging cut to pieces. One of our anchor
+ stocks, and our larboard cable, shot away, and a number of grape
+ shot were sticking in different parts of the hull, but not a man
+ hurt! A boat belonging to the John Adams, with a master's mate
+ (Mr. Creighton) and eight men, was sunk by a double-headed shot
+ from the batteries, while in tow of the Nautilus, which killed
+ three men, and badly wounded one, who, with Mr. Creighton and the
+ other four, were picked up by one of our boats. The only damage
+ our gunboats sustained was in their rigging and sails, which were
+ considerably cut by the enemy's round and grape shot. At eleven,
+ A.M., we anchored with the squadron, five miles northeast by
+ north from Tripoli, and repaired the damage received in the
+ action.
+
+ _August 29th_ and _30th_. Preparing the bomb vessels for service;
+ supplying the gunboats with ammunition, etc.
+
+ _August 31st._ A vessel arrived from Malta with provisions (p. 146)
+ and stores; brought no news of Commodore Barron or the frigates.
+ We discharged this vessel's cargo and ordered her to return.
+
+ _September 2d._ The bomb vessels having been repaired and ready
+ for service, Lieutenants Dent and Robinson resumed the command of
+ them. Lieutenant Morris of the Argus, took command of No. 3, and
+ Lieutenant Trippe, having nearly recovered from his wounds,
+ resumed the command of No. 6, which he so gallantly conducted the
+ 3d ultimo. Captain Chauncey, with several young gentlemen, and
+ sixty men from the John Adams, volunteered on board the
+ Constitution. At four P.M., made the signal to weigh; kept under
+ sail all night. At eleven P.M., a general signal to prepare for
+ battle. A Spanish polacre in ballast came out of Tripoli, with an
+ ambassador of the Grand Seignor on board, who had been sent from
+ Constantinople to Tripoli to confirm the Bashaw in his title;
+ this ceremony takes place in all the Barbary regencies every five
+ years. The captain of this vessel informed us that our shot and
+ shells had made great havoc and destruction in the city, and
+ among the shipping, and that a vast number of people had been
+ killed: also informs us that three of the boats which were sunk
+ by our shot in the actions of the 3d and 28th ultimo, had been
+ got up, repaired, and fitted for service.
+
+ _September 3d._ At two P.M., Tripoli bore south southwest, two
+ miles and a half distant; wind east by north. At half-past two
+ the signals were made for the gunboats to cast off, advance, and
+ attack the enemy's galleys and gunboats, which were all under
+ weigh in the eastern part of the harbour, whither they had for
+ some time been working up against the wind. This was certainly a
+ judicious movement of theirs, as it precluded the possibility of
+ our boats going down to attack the town, without leaving the
+ enemy's flotilla in their rear, and directly to windward. I
+ accordingly ordered the bomb vessels to run down within proper
+ distance of the town and bombard it, while our gunboats were to
+ engage the enemy's galleys and boats to windward. At half-past
+ three P.M., our bombs having gained the station to which they
+ were directed, anchored, and commenced throwing shells into the
+ city; at the same time our gunboats opened a brisk fire on the
+ galleys, &c., within point blank shot, which was warmly returned
+ by them and Fort English, and by a new battery a little to the
+ westward; but as soon as our boats arrived within good musket
+ shot of their galleys and boats, they gave way and retreated to
+ the shore within the rocks, and under cover of musketry from Fort
+ English. They were followed by our boats, and by the Syren,
+ Argus, Vixen, Nautilus and Enterprize, as far as the reefs would
+ permit them to go with prudence. The action was then divided. One
+ division of our boats, with the brigs and schooners, attacked
+ Fort English, whilst the other was engaged with the enemy's
+ galleys and boats. The Bashaw's castle, the mole, crown, and
+ several other batteries kept up a constant fire on our bomb
+ vessels, which were well conducted, and threw shells briskly into
+ the town; but, from their situation, they were very much exposed,
+ and in great danger of being sunk. I accordingly ran within them
+ with the Constitution, to draw off the enemy's attention and
+ amuse them whilst the bombardment was kept up. We brought to
+ within reach of grape, and fired eleven broadsides into the
+ Bashaw's castle, town and batteries, in a situation where more
+ than seventy guns could bear upon us. One of their batteries was
+ silenced. The town, castle and other batteries considerably (p. 147)
+ damaged. By this time, it was half-past four o'clock; the wind
+ was increasing, and inclining rapidly to the northward. I made
+ the signal for the boats to retire from action, and for the brigs
+ and schooners to take them in tow, and soon after hauled off with
+ the Constitution to repair damages. Our main-topsail was
+ totally disabled by a shell from the batteries, which cut away
+ the leech rope, and several cloths of the sail; another shell
+ went through the fore-top-sail, and one through the jib; all our
+ sails considerably cut; two top-mast backstays shot away, main
+ sheets, fore tacks, lifts, braces, bowlines, and the running
+ rigging, generally, very much cut, but no shot in our hull,
+ excepting a few grape. Our gunboats were an hour and fifteen
+ minutes in action. They disabled several of the enemy's galleys
+ and boats, and considerably damaged Fort English. Most of our
+ boats received damage in their rigging and sails. The bomb vessel
+ No. 1, commanded by Lieutenant Robinson, was disabled, every
+ shroud being shot away; the bed of the mortar rendered useless,
+ and the vessel near sinking; she was, however, towed off. About
+ fifty shells were thrown into the town, and our boats fired four
+ hundred round shot, besides grape and canister. They were led
+ into action by Captains Decatur and Somers, with their usual
+ gallantry. The brigs and schooners were handsomely conducted, and
+ fired many shot with effect at Fort English, which they were near
+ enough to reach with their carronades; they suffered considerably
+ in their rigging, and the Argus received a thirty-two pound shot
+ in the hull forward, which cut off a bower cable as it entered.
+ We kept under weigh until eleven P.M., when we anchored, Tripoli
+ bearing south southwest three leagues. I again, with pleasure,
+ acknowledge the services of an able and active officer in Captain
+ Chauncey, serving on the quarter-deck of the Constitution. At
+ sunrise I made the signal for the squadron to prepare for action.
+ The carpenters were sent on board the bombs to repair damages,
+ and our boats employed in supplying the bombs and gunboats with
+ ammunition, and to replace the expenditures.
+
+ Desirous of annoying the enemy by all the means in my power, I
+ directed to be put into execution a long contemplated plan of
+ sending a fire ship, or _infernal_, into the harbour of Tripoli,
+ in the night, for the purpose of endeavouring to destroy the
+ enemy's shipping, and shatter the Bashaw's castle and town.
+ Captain Somers, of the Nautilus, having volunteered his services,
+ had, for several days before this period, been directing the
+ preparation of the ketch Intrepid, assisted by Lieutenants
+ Wadsworth and Israel. About one hundred barrels of powder, and
+ one hundred and fifty fixed shells, were apparently judiciously
+ disposed of on board her. The fusees leading to the magazine,
+ where all the powder was deposited, were calculated to burn for a
+ quarter of an hour.
+
+ _September 4th._ The Intrepid being prepared for the intended
+ service, Captain Somers and Lieutenant Wadsworth made choice of
+ two of the fastest rowing boats in the squadron, for bringing
+ them out, after reaching their destination, and firing the
+ combustible materials which were to communicate with the fusees.
+ Captain Somers' boat was manned with four seamen from the
+ Nautilus, and Lieutenant Wadsworth's with six from the
+ Constitution. Lieutenant Israel accompanied them. At eight in the
+ evening, the Intrepid was under sail, and standing for the port,
+ with a leading breeze from the eastward. The Argus, Vixen, and
+ Nautilus, convoyed her as far as the rocks. On entering the (p. 148)
+ harbour, several shot were fired at her from the batteries.
+ In a few minutes after, when she had apparently nearly gained the
+ intended place of destination, she suddenly exploded, without
+ their having previously fired a room filled with splinters and
+ other combustibles, which were intended to create a blaze in
+ order to deter the enemy from boarding while the fire was
+ communicating to the fusees which led to the magazine. The effect
+ of the explosion awed their batteries into profound silence with
+ astonishment; not a gun was afterwards fired for the night. The
+ shrieks of the inhabitants informed us that the town was thrown
+ into the greatest terror and consternation by the explosion of
+ the magazine, and the bursting and falling of shells in all
+ directions. The whole squadron waited, with the utmost anxiety,
+ to learn the fate of the adventurers, from a signal previously
+ agreed on, in case of success; but waited in vain. No signs of
+ their safety were to be observed. The Argus, Vixen and Nautilus,
+ hovered round the entrance of the port until sunrise, when they
+ had a fair view of the whole harbour. Not a vestige of the ketch
+ or her boats was to be seen. One of the enemy's largest gunboats
+ was missing, and three others were seen very much shattered and
+ damaged, which the enemy were hauling on shore. From these
+ circumstances, I am led to believe that these boats were detached
+ from the enemy's flotilla to intercept the ketch, and, without
+ suspecting her to be a fire ship, the missing boat had suddenly
+ boarded her, when the gallant Somers and heroes of his party,
+ observing the other three boats surrounding them, and no prospect
+ of escape, determined, at once, to prefer _death_ and the
+ _destruction of the enemy_ to _captivity_ and _torturing
+ slavery_, put a match to the tram leading directly to the
+ magazine, which at once blew the whole into the air, and
+ terminated their existence. My conjectures respecting this affair
+ are founded on a resolution which Captain Somers, Lieutenants
+ Wadsworth and Israel had formed--neither to be taken by the
+ enemy, nor suffer him to get possession of the powder on board
+ the Intrepid. They expected to enter the harbour without
+ discovery, but had declared that should they be disappointed, and
+ the enemy should board them, before they reached the point of
+ destination, in such force as to leave them no hopes of a safe
+ retreat, that they would put a match to the magazine, and blow
+ themselves and their enemies up together; determined, as there
+ was no exchange of prisoners, that their country should never pay
+ ransom for them, nor the enemy receive a supply of powder through
+ their means. The disappearance of one of the enemy's boats, and
+ the shattered condition of three others, confirm me in my opinion
+ that they were an advanced guard, detached from the main body of
+ the flotilla on discovering the approach of the Intrepid, and
+ that they attempted to board her before she had reached her point
+ of destination; otherwise the whole of their shipping must have
+ suffered, and perhaps would have been totally destroyed. That she
+ was blown up before she had gained her station is certain, by
+ which the service has lost three very gallant officers. Captain
+ Somers, and Lieutenants Wadsworth and Israel were officers of
+ conspicuous bravery, talents, and merit. They had uniformly
+ distinguished themselves in the several actions; were beloved and
+ lamented by the whole squadron.
+
+ _September 5th._ We were employed in supplying the gunboats with
+ ammunition, &c., and repairing the bomb vessels for another
+ attack, but, the wind shifting to the N. N. E., a heavy swell
+ setting on shore, and other indications of bad weather,
+ determined me, for greater safety, to take the guns, mortars, (p. 149)
+ shot and shells out of the boats into the Constitution and
+ John Adams, which was accordingly done. The weather continuing
+ to wear a threatening aspect until the 7th, and our ammunition
+ being reduced to a quantity not more than sufficient for three
+ vessels to keep up the blockade, no intelligence of the expected
+ reinforcement, and the season so far advanced as to render it
+ imprudent to hazard the gunboats any longer on the station, I
+ gave orders for the John Adams, Syren, Nautilus, Enterprize and
+ Scourge, to take the bombs and gunboats in tow, and proceed to
+ Syracuse with them. The Argus and Vixen to remain with the
+ Constitution, to keep up the blockade.
+
+ _September 10th._ The United States ship President, Commodore
+ Barron, and Constellation, Captain Campbell, hove in sight, and
+ soon joined company, when the command of the squadron was
+ surrendered to Commodore Barron with the usual ceremony. I
+ continued in company with the squadron until the 12th, when three
+ strange ships came in sight, standing direct for Tripoli. Chase
+ was given, and two of them boarded and taken possession of by the
+ Constitution, the President in company, about four leagues from
+ Tripoli, but not more than five miles from the land, while the
+ Constellation and Argus were in chase of the third. The two
+ boarded by the Constitution were loaded with about sixteen
+ thousand bushels of wheat. Tripoli is in a state of starvation,
+ and there can be no doubt but these cargoes were meant as a
+ supply and relief to our enemies.
+
+ Considering the season too far advanced, and weather too
+ uncertain, to hazard any further operations against Tripoli, at
+ present, Commodore Barron determined that the prizes should be
+ sent to Malta, under convoy of the Constitution, it being
+ necessary she should go into port to be recaulked and refitted. I
+ notified to Commodore Barron that it was my wish to return to the
+ United States, in the frigate John Adams, Captain Chauncey; this
+ readily, and in the handsomest manner, met his acquiescence. I
+ shall accordingly return in that ship.
+
+ The service in this quarter cannot suffer from this arrangement,
+ as Captain Decatur is at present without a ship, and my return
+ will place him immediately in the exercise of the duties attached
+ to that commission which he has so gallantly earned, and his
+ country generously bestowed. I shall feel a pleasure in leaving
+ the Constitution under the command of that officer, whose
+ enterprising and manly conduct I have often witnessed, and whose
+ merits eminently entitle him to so handsome a command.
+
+ The other commanders merit the highest commendations for their
+ prompt obedience to orders, on all occasions, and for the zeal,
+ spirit and judgment which they displayed in the several attacks
+ on the enemy's shipping and batteries, as well as for the general
+ good order and discipline at all times observed on board their
+ respective vessels. The officers of the squadron have conducted
+ themselves in the most gallant and handsome manner; and the
+ conduct of the different ship's companies have merited my warmest
+ approbation since I have had the honour to command them.
+
+ It affords me much satisfaction to observe that we have neither
+ had a duel nor a court martial in the squadron since we left the
+ United States.
+
+ I most sincerely regret the loss of our gallant countrymen, who
+ have sacrificed their lives to the honour of the service, and
+ that it has not been in my power, consistent with the (p. 150)
+ interest and expectation of our country, to liberate Captain
+ Bainbridge and the unfortunate officers and crew of the
+ Philadelphia. Be assured, sir, I have incessantly endeavoured to
+ effect this desirable object. I have no doubt but my successor
+ will be able to effect their release, and establish peace, on
+ such terms as will reflect the highest honour on himself and his
+ country.
+
+ _September 17th._ Arrived at Malta with the two detained Greek
+ vessels. We experienced very bad weather, but had the
+ satisfaction to learn that the bombs and gunboats had arrived
+ safe at Syracuse, the 15th instant, without accident. Each of the
+ Tripoline gunboats which we have captured has two brass howitzers
+ abaft, and a handsome copper gun in the bow, which carries a
+ twenty-nine pound shot, is eleven and a half feet long, and
+ weighs six thousand six hundred pounds.
+
+ I send you a plan of the town and harbour of Tripoli, with the
+ disposition of our squadron, and the enemy's flotilla, at the
+ time of the several attacks, with sundry other papers.
+
+ I have the honour to be, with the highest respect, sir,
+
+ Your most obedient servant,
+ Edward PREBLE.
+
+ _____
+
+_R. Smith to George Harrison._
+
+ To
+ George HARRISON, Esq., Navy Department,
+ Philadelphia. June 26, 1805.
+
+ Sir: I have received your letter, accompanied by drawings of the
+ medal for Commodore Preble. I now return you the Commodore's
+ likeness and one of the drawings sent to me by you. I approve the
+ drawings, excepting as to size, which appears to me to be too
+ large. I doubt whether any die can be made to impress so large a
+ surface. We should depart, too, from general custom, by making
+ this medal so large. The medal voted by the old Congress, for
+ General Washington, was three inches diameter, those for General
+ Greene, Gates, &c., were two and a half inches, and those for
+ Morgan, Wayne, &c., were two inches. The drawings of the medal
+ for Commodore Preble are four inches. I have no objections to the
+ medal for Commodore Preble being two and a half inches. Confer
+ with artists upon the subject and let me hear from you. It is my
+ determination to have it made by Mr. Reich, and you may so inform
+ him, that he may not engage in other business to interfere with
+ this.
+
+ I am respectfully, sir, your most obedient servant,
+ R. SMITH.
+
+
+
+No. 24. (p. 151)
+PLATE XXV.
+
+
+_March 4, 1809--March 4, 1817._
+
+ James Madison President of the U. S. A. D. 1809. [Rx]. Peace and
+ friendship.
+
+PRESIDENT JAMES MADISON.
+
+[_Fourth President of the United States of America._]
+
+JAMES MADISON PRESIDENT OF THE U. S. (_United States_) A. D. (_Anno
+Domini: The year of our Lord_) 1809. Bust of President Madison, facing
+the left. On ring, R. (_Reich_).
+
+PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP. Two hands clasped, in token of amity; on the
+cuff of the left wrist three stripes and as many buttons with the
+American eagle on them; the other wrist bare; above the hands, a
+calumet and a tomahawk crossed--Indian emblems of peace and war.[74]
+
+ [Footnote 74: See INTRODUCTION, page xxiv.]
+
+The dies of the reverse of this medal served for all the Indian
+Presidential medals struck previous to July, 1846, when new ones had
+to be made, as will be seen from the following extracts from
+despatches of R. M. Patterson, director of the Mint, to William
+Merrill, commissioner of Indian affairs, bearing date, Philadelphia,
+July 18, 1846:
+
+ "As the dies for the Indian medals belong to the War Department,
+ it is proper that I should mention that the reverses are no
+ longer in a condition to be employed. They have been used for all
+ the medals struck since the time of President Jefferson, and it
+ was with difficulty that they could be made to answer for those
+ which we have just completed. A new set will be absolutely
+ necessary, and it seems not unreasonable that they should be paid
+ out of the appropriation made for these medals, in striking which
+ they have finally failed."
+
+And Philadelphia, December 5, 1846: (p. 152)
+
+ "In a letter which I addressed to you on the 18th of July last, I
+ stated that the reverses used for the Indian medals were no
+ longer in a condition to be again employed. I mentioned that the
+ cost of a new set would be $300, and I asked your authority to
+ have them made without further delay. This authority you gave me
+ in your letter of the 21st of July. I have now to report that
+ complete sets both of hubs and dies have been made, and that the
+ hubs will put it in our power to replace a die, at any time, if
+ it should be injured. All apprehension from this source is
+ therefore removed for the future."
+
+
+JAMES MADISON was born at King George, on the Rappahannock river,
+Virginia, March 16, 1751. He was graduated at the College of New
+Jersey, Princeton, 1771; studied law; was member of the General
+Assembly of Virginia, 1776; of the Continental Congress, 1780-1783; of
+the State Legislature of Virginia, 1784; of the Philadelphia
+Convention, 1787; representative in Congress from Virginia, 1789-1797;
+secretary of State to President Jefferson, 1801-1809; President of the
+United States (first term), 1809-1813; (second term), 1813-1817. He
+died at his estate of Montpelier, Orange County, Virginia, June 28,
+1836.
+
+
+
+No. 25. (p. 153)
+PLATE XXVI.
+
+
+_August 19, 1812._
+
+ Isaacus Hull peritos arte superat Jul MDCCCXII Aug. certamine
+ fortes. [Rx]. Horae memento victoria.
+
+CAPTAIN ISAAC HULL.
+
+[_Capture of the Guerriere._]
+
+ISAACUS HULL PERITOS ARTE SUPERAT JUL. (_Julii_), MDCCCXII AUG.
+(_Augusti_) CERTAMINE FORTES.[75] (_Isaac Hull conquers in July, 1812,
+the skilled by stratagem, and in August, the strong in battle._) Bust
+of Captain Hull, in uniform, facing the left. On edge of bust, R.
+(_Reich_).
+
+ [Footnote 75: As this legend refers to two events,
+ Hull's celebrated escape from a British fleet in
+ July, and his capture of the Guerriere in August,
+ 1812, the official reports of both those important
+ affairs are given.]
+
+HORAE MOMENTO VICTORIA. (_Victory in the space of an hour._) Naval
+action between the United States frigate Constitution, of forty-four
+guns, Captain Hull, and the British frigate Guerriere, of forty-nine
+guns, Captain Dacres. The Constitution, firing her starboard battery,
+carries away the Guerriere's mizzenmast, which, in falling, takes with
+it the mainmast; the Guerriere, having already lost her foremast, is
+completely dismasted; the Constitution, on the contrary, is but
+slightly injured in her rigging. Exergue: INTER CONST. NAV. AMER. ET
+GUER. ANGL. (_Inter Constitution navem Americanam et Guerriere
+Anglicanam: Between the American vessel Constitution and the English
+vessel Guerriere_).[76]
+
+ [Footnote 76: See INTRODUCTION, page xxiv.]
+
+
+ISAAC HULL was born at Derby, Connecticut, March 9, 1775. He was first
+in the merchant service, but entered the navy as lieutenant in 1798,
+and served under Commodores Preble and Barron before Tripoli, (p. 154)
+1802-1805. In May, 1804, he was appointed master-commandant, and in
+April, 1806, captain. On July 17, 1812, and on the following two days,
+while in command of the frigate Constitution, he found himself
+becalmed, with a fleet of five British vessels in pursuit of him, but
+by repeatedly sending out his kedge anchors and hauling his ship up to
+them, he kept out of their reach until the breeze sprung up again,
+when he soon left them far astern. A few weeks later, August 19, he
+fell in with and captured the British frigate Guerriere, Captain J. A.
+Dacres, for which gallant action Congress gave him a vote of thanks
+and a gold medal. After the war, he commanded in the Pacific and the
+Mediterranean. He was a member of the Naval Board, and was at the head
+of the navy yards at Boston and at Washington. He died in
+Philadelphia, February 3, 1843.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to Captains Hull, Decatur,
+Jones, etc._
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_, That the
+ President of the United States be, and he is hereby, requested to
+ present to Captain Hull of the frigate Constitution, Captain
+ Decatur of the frigate United States, and Captain Jones of the
+ sloop of war Wasp, each a gold medal, with suitable emblems and
+ devices; and a silver medal, with like emblems and devices, to
+ each commissioned officer of the aforesaid vessels, in testimony
+ of the high sense entertained by Congress of the gallantry, good
+ conduct, and services of the captains, officers, and crews of the
+ aforesaid vessels in their respective conflicts with the British
+ frigates the Guerriere and the Macedonian, and sloop of war
+ Frolic; and the President is also requested to present a silver
+ medal,[77] with like emblems and devices, to the nearest male
+ relative of Lieutenant Bush, and one to the nearest male relative
+ of Lieutenant Funk, in testimony of the gallantry and merit of
+ those deceased officers, in whom their country has sustained a
+ loss much to be regretted.
+
+ [Footnote 77: The silver medals are copies of the
+ gold ones given to the captains of the respective
+ ships.]
+
+ SECTION 2. _And be it further resolved_, That the President of
+ the United States be, and he hereby is, requested to present to
+ Lieutenant Elliott of the navy of the United States, an elegant
+ sword, with suitable emblems and devices, in testimony of the
+ just sense entertained by Congress of his gallantry and good
+ conduct in boarding and capturing the British brigs Detroit and
+ Caledonia, while anchored under the protection of Fort Erie.
+
+ Approved January 29, 1813.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Hull to the Secretary of the Navy._ (p. 155)
+
+ To the Honourable United States frigate Constitution,
+ Paul HAMILTON, at Sea, July 21, 1812.
+ Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: In pursuance of your orders of the 3d instant, I left
+ Annapolis on the 5th instant, and the Capes on the 12th, of which
+ I advised you by the Pilot that brought the ship to sea.
+
+ For several days after we got out the wind was light and ahead,
+ which with a strong southerly current prevented our making much
+ way to the northward. On the 17th at 2 P.M., being in 22 fathoms
+ water off Egg Harbour, four sail of ships were discovered from
+ the mast head to the northward and in shore of us; apparently
+ ships of war. The wind being very light, all sail was made in
+ chase of them, to ascertain whether they were enemy's ships or
+ our squadron having got out of New York waiting the arrival of
+ the Constitution, the latter of which I had reason to believe was
+ the case.
+
+ At 4 in the afternoon a ship was seen from the mast head bearing
+ about N. E., standing for us under all sail, which she continued
+ to do until sundown, at which time she was too far off to
+ distinguish signals, and the ships in shore were only to be seen
+ from the tops, they were standing off to the southward, and
+ eastward. As we could not ascertain before dark what the ship in
+ the offing was, I determined to stand for her and get near enough
+ to make the night signal. At 10, in the evening, being within six
+ or eight miles of the strange sail, the Private Signal was made,
+ and kept up nearly one hour, but finding she could not answer it,
+ I concluded she and the ships in shore were enemies. I
+ immediately hauled off to the southward and eastward, and made
+ all sail, having determined to lay off till day light, to see
+ what they were. The ship that we had been chasing, hauled off
+ after us, showing a light, and occasionally making signals,
+ supposed to be for the ships in shore.
+
+ _July 18th._ At daylight, or a little before it was quite light,
+ saw two sail under our lee, which proved to be frigates of the
+ enemy--one frigate astern, within about five or six miles, and a
+ line-of-battle ship, a frigate, a brig and schooner, about ten or
+ twelve miles directly astern, all in chase of us, with a fine
+ breeze, and coming up very fast, it being nearly calm where we
+ were. Soon after sunrise the wind entirely left us, and the ship
+ would not steer, but fell round off with her head towards the two
+ ships under our lee. The boats were instantly hoisted out and
+ sent ahead to tow the ship's head round, and to endeavour to get
+ her farther from the enemy, being then within five miles of three
+ heavy frigates. The boats of the enemy were got out, and sent
+ ahead to tow, which, with the light air that remained with them,
+ they came up very fast. Finding the enemy coming fast up, and but
+ little chance of escaping from them, I ordered two of the guns on
+ the gun deck, ran out at the cabin windows for stern guns on the
+ gun deck, and hoisted one of the 24-pounders off the gun deck,
+ and run that, with the forecastle gun, an 18-pounder, out at the
+ ports on the quarter deck, and cleared the ship for action, being
+ determined they should not get her without resistance on our
+ part, notwithstanding their force and the situation we were
+ placed in.
+
+ At about seven in the morning the ship nearest us (p. 156)
+ approaching within gunshot and directly astern, I ordered one of
+ the stern guns fired to see if we could reach her, to endeavour
+ to disable her masts, found the shot fell a little short, would
+ not fire any more. At 8 four of the enemy's ships nearly within
+ gunshot, some of them having six or eight boats ahead towing,
+ with all their oars and sweeps out to row them up with us, which
+ they were fast doing. It now appeared that we must be taken, and
+ that our escape was impossible, four heavy ships nearly within
+ gunshot and coming up fast, and not the least hope of a breeze to
+ give us a chance of getting off by outsailing them.
+
+ In the situation, finding ourselves in only twenty-four fathoms
+ water (by the suggestion of that valuable officer, Lieutenant
+ Morris), I determined to try and warp the ship ahead by carrying
+ out anchors and warping her up to them. Three or four hundred
+ fathoms of rope was instantly got up, and two anchors got ready
+ and sent ahead, by which means we began to gain ahead of the
+ enemy. They however soon saw our boats carrying out the anchors,
+ and adopted the same plan, under very advantageous circumstances,
+ as all the boats from the ship furthermost off were sent to tow
+ and warp up those nearest to us, by which means they again came
+ up, so that at 9 the ship nearest us began firing her bow guns,
+ which we instantly returned by our stern guns in the cabin and on
+ the quarter deck. All the shots from the enemy fell short, but we
+ have reason to believe that some of ours went on board her, as we
+ could not see them strike the water. Soon after 9 a second
+ frigate passed under our lee and opened her broadside, but
+ finding her shot fell short, discontinued her fire, but
+ continued, as did all the rest of them, to make every possible
+ exertion to get up with us.
+
+ From 9 to 12, all hands were employed in warping the ship ahead,
+ and in starting some of the water in the main hold, to lighten
+ her, by which, with the help of a light air, we rather gained of
+ the enemy, or at least held on our own. About 2, in the
+ afternoon, all the boats from the line of battle ship, and some
+ of the frigates, were sent to the frigate nearest to us, to
+ endeavour to tow her up, but a light breeze sprung up, which
+ enabled us to hold way with her, notwithstanding they had eight
+ or ten boats ahead, and all her sails furled to tow her to
+ windward. The wind continued light until 11 at night, and the
+ boats were kept ahead towing and warping to keep out of the reach
+ of the enemy, three of the frigates being very near us. At 11, we
+ got a light breeze from the southward, the boats came alongside,
+ and were hoisted up, the ship having too much way to keep them
+ ahead, the enemy still in chase and very near.
+
+ _July 19th._ At daylight passed within gun shot of one of the
+ frigates, but she did not fire on us, perhaps for fear of
+ becalming her as the wind was light. Soon after passing us she
+ tacked and stood after us. At this time six sail were in sight
+ under all sail after us. At 9, in the morning, saw a strange sail
+ on our weather beam, supposed to be an American merchant ship.
+ The instant the frigate nearest us saw her, she hoisted American
+ colours, as did all the squadron, in hopes to decoy her down. I
+ immediately hoisted English colours, that she might not be
+ deceived. She soon hauled her wind, and it is to be hoped made
+ her escape. All this day the wind increased gradually, and we
+ gained on the enemy, in the course of the day, six or eight
+ miles, they however continued chasing us all night under a press
+ of sail.
+
+ _July 20th._ At daylight in the morning only three of them (p. 157)
+ could be seen from the mast head, the nearest of which was
+ about twelve miles off directly astern. All hands were set at
+ work wetting the sails, from the royals down, with the engine and
+ fire-buckets, and we soon found that we left the enemy very fast.
+ At quarter past 8, the enemy finding that they were fast dropping
+ astern, gave over the chase, and hauled their own wind to the
+ northward, probably for the station off New York. At half-past 8,
+ saw a sail ahead, gave chase after her under all sail. At 9, saw
+ another strange sail under our lee bow. We soon spoke the first
+ sail, discovered and found her to be an American brig from St.
+ Domingo, bound to Portland. I directed the captain how to steer
+ to avoid the enemy, and made sail for the vessel to leeward. On
+ coming up with her, she proved to be an American brig from St.
+ Bartholomews, bound to Philadelphia, but on being informed of
+ war, she bore up for Charleston, S. C.
+
+ Finding the ship so far to the southward and eastward, and the
+ enemy's squadron stationed off New York, which would make it
+ impossible for the ship to get in there, I determined to make for
+ Boston to receive your further orders, and I hope that my having
+ done so will meet your approbation. My wish to explain to you as
+ clearly as possible why your orders have not been executed, and
+ the length of time the enemy were in chase of us, with various
+ other circumstances, have caused me to make this communication
+ much longer than I would have wished, yet I cannot (in justice to
+ the brave officers and crew under my command) close it without
+ expressing to you the confidence I have in them, and assuring you
+ that their conduct whilst under the guns of the enemy was such as
+ might have been expected from American officers and seamen.
+
+ I have the honour to be, with great respect, Sir, your obedient
+ humble servant,
+ Isaac HULL.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Hull to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To the Honourable United States Frigate Constitution,
+ Paul HAMILTON, Off Boston Light, August 30, 1812.
+ Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour to inform you that on the 19th instant, at
+ 2 P.M., being in latitude 41 deg. 42', longitude 55 deg. 48', with the
+ Constitution under my command, a sail was discovered from the
+ masthead 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 we 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 half past 3 P.M. made her out to be a
+ frigate; continued the chase until we were within about three
+ miles, when I ordered the light sails taken in, the courses
+ hauled up, and the ship cleared for action. At this time the
+ chase had backed his main top-sail, waiting for us to come down.
+ As soon as the Constitution was ready for action, I bore down
+ with an intention to bring him to close action immediately; but
+ on our coming within gunshot she gave us a broadside and filled
+ away, and wore, giving us a broadside on the other tack; but (p. 158)
+ without effect; her shot falling short. She continued wearing
+ and manoeuvering for about three-quarters of an hour, to get
+ a raking position, but finding she could not, bore up, and
+ run under topsails and gib, with the wind on the quarter.
+ Immediately made sail to bring the ship up with her, and five
+ minutes before 6 P.M. being alongside 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 fifteen minutes her mizzen-mast went by the
+ board, and her mainyard in the slings, and the hull, rigging and
+ sails were very much torn to pieces. The fire was kept up with
+ equal warmth for fifteen minutes longer, when her main-mast and
+ fore-mast went, taking with them every spar, excepting the
+ bowsprit; on seeing this we ceased firing, so that in thirty
+ minutes after we got fairly alongside the enemy she surrendered,
+ and had not a spar standing, and her hull below and above water
+ so shattered that a few more broadsides must have carried her
+ down.
+
+ After informing you that so fine a ship as the Guerriere,
+ commanded by an able and experienced officer, had been totally
+ dismasted, and otherwise cut to pieces, so as to make her not
+ worth towing into port, in the short space of 30 minutes, you can
+ have no doubt of the gallantry and good conduct of the officers
+ and ship's company I have the honour 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
+ requesting to be laid close alongside the enemy.
+
+ Enclosed I have the honour to send you a list of killed and
+ wounded on board the Constitution, and a report of the damages
+ she has sustained; also a list of the killed and wounded on board
+ the enemy, with his quarter-bill, &c.
+
+ I have the honour to be, with very great respect, Sir, your
+ obedient servant,
+
+ Isaac HULL.
+
+ Killed and wounded on board the United States frigate
+ Constitution, Isaac Hull, Esquire, Captain, in the action with
+ His Britannic Majesty's frigate Guerriere, James A. Dacres,
+ Esquire, Captain, on the 20th of August, 1812:
+
+ _Killed_: W. S. Bush, Lieutenant of Marines, and 6 seamen 7
+ _Wounded_: Lieutenant C. Morris, Master J. C. Aylwin,
+ 4 seamen, 1 marine 7
+ --
+ Total killed and wounded 14
+
+ United States frigate Constitution, August 21st, 1812.
+
+ T. S. CHEW, _Purser_.
+ Isaac HULL, _Captain_.
+
+ Killed and wounded on board His Britannic Majesty's frigate
+ Guerriere:
+
+ _Killed_: 3 officers, 12 seamen and marines 15
+ _Wounded_: J. A. Dacres, Captain, 4 officers, 57 seamen and
+ marines 62
+ _Missing_: Lieutenants Pullman and Roberts, and 22 seamen and
+ marines, supposed to have gone overboard with the
+ masts 24
+ ---
+ Total killed, wounded and missing 101
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Hull to the Secretary of the Navy._ (p. 159)
+
+ To the Honourable United States Frigate Constitution,
+ Paul HAMILTON, Boston, August 30, 1812.
+ Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir:
+ - - - - -
+
+ I cannot but make you acquainted with the very great assistance I
+ received from that valued officer, Lieutenant Morris, in bringing
+ the ship into action, and in working her whilst along side the
+ enemy, 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 thanks and gratitude
+ of his country, for this and the many gallant acts he has done in
+ its service. Were I to name any particular officer as having been
+ more useful than the rest, I should do them great injustice; they
+ all fought bravely, and gave me every possible assistance that I
+ could wish. I am extremely sorry to state to you the loss of
+ Lieutenant Bush, of marines; he fell at the head of his men in
+ getting ready to board the enemy. In him our country has lost a
+ valuable and brave officer. After the fall of Lieutenant Bush,
+ Lieutenant Contee of the corps, took command of the marines, and
+ I have pleasure in saying that his conduct was that of a brave,
+ good officer, and the marines behaved with great coolness and
+ courage during the action, and annoyed the enemy very much whilst
+ she was under our stern.
+
+ I have the honour to be, with very great respect, Sir, your
+ obedient servant,
+ Isaac HULL.
+
+
+
+No. 26. (p. 160)
+PLATE XXVII.
+
+
+_October 18, 1812._
+
+ Jacobus Jones virtus in ardua tendit. [Rx]. Victoriam hosti
+ majori celerrime rapuit.
+
+CAPTAIN JACOB JONES.
+
+[_Capture of the Frolic._]
+
+IACOBUS JONES VIRTUS IN ARDUA TENDIT. (_Jacob Jones. Valor seeks
+difficulties._) Bust of Captain Jones, in uniform, facing the right.
+On edge of bust, FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+VICTORIAM HOSTI MAJORI CELERRIME RAPUIT. (_He quickly snatched victory
+from a superior enemy._) Naval action between the United States
+sloop-of-war Wasp, of eighteen guns, Captain Jones, and the British
+sloop-of-war Frolic, of twenty-two guns, Captain Whinyates. The Wasp
+has lost her main-topmast, and is raking the Frolic as she lays her on
+board. The Americans are in possession of the enemy's forecastle.
+Exergue: INTER WASP NAV. AMERI. ET FROLIC NAV. ANG. DIE XVIII OCT.
+MDCCCXII. (_Inter Wasp navem Americanam et Frolic navem Anglicanam,
+die 18 Octobris, 1812: Between the American vessel Wasp and the
+English vessel Frolic, October 18, 1812._) On the platform, FUeRST. F.
+(_fecit_).
+
+
+MORITZ FUeRST was born in Presburg, Hungary, and studied with Wuert, a
+die sinker in the Imperial Mint of Vienna. He was for a time
+superintendent of the Royal Mint of Lombardy. In 1807 he was engaged
+by the American Consul at Leghorn as die sinker to the United States
+Mint, arrived the same year in America, and entered on his duties in
+the spring of 1808. He made nearly all the medals voted by Congress to
+the army and navy for the War of 1812-1815, and the Indian medals of
+Presidents Monroe, John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson, and Martin Van
+Buren. He resided for many years in New York.
+
+
+JACOB JONES was born near Smyrna, Kent County, Delaware, in March, (p. 161)
+1770. He first studied medicine, but entered the navy as midshipman in
+1799, was lieutenant in 1801, was taken prisoner in the frigate
+Philadelphia, off Tripoli, 1803, and remained in captivity for twenty
+months. Having been commissioned as master-commandant in 1810, he was
+given, in 1811, the sloop-of-war Wasp, with which he captured the
+British sloop-of-war Frolic, Captain Whinyates, October 18, 1812. For
+this gallant action Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold
+medal. He became captain in 1813, and received the frigate Macedonian.
+He afterward commanded squadrons in the Mediterranean and in the
+Pacific; was a member of the Naval Board and governor of the Naval
+Asylum in Philadelphia, where he died, August 3, 1850.
+
+ [Footnote 78: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal is given under No. 25, page 154.]
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Captain Jacob Jones to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To the Honourable
+ Paul HAMILTON, New York, November 24th, 1813.
+ Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: I here avail myself of the first opportunity of informing
+ you of the occurrences of our cruise, which terminated in the
+ capture of the Wasp, on the 18th of October, by the Poictiers, of
+ 74 guns, while a wreck from damages received in an engagement
+ with the British sloop-of-war Frolic, of 22 guns; 16 of them
+ 32-pound 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
+ Poictiers.
+
+ We had left the Delaware on the 13th. The 16th had a heavy gale,
+ in which we lost our jib-boom and two men. Half-past 11, on the
+ night of the 17th, in the latitude of 37 degrees north, and
+ longitude 65 degrees west, we saw several sail; two of them
+ appeared very large. We stood from them for some time, then
+ shortened sail, and steered the remainder of the night the course
+ we had perceived them on. At daylight, 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 16 to 18 guns. At 30 minutes past 11,
+ A.M., we engaged the sloop-of-war, having first received her
+ fire at the distance of fifty or sixty yards, which space we (p. 162)
+ 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 side of the enemy, our men exhibited the same alacrity which
+ they had done during the whole of the action. They immediately
+ surrendered upon our gaining their forecastle, so that no loss
+ was sustained on either side after boarding.
+
+ Our main-topmast was shot away between four and five minutes from
+ the commencement of the firing, and falling, together with the
+ main-topsail yard, across the larboard fore and fore-topsail
+ braces, rendered our head-yards unmanageable the remainder of the
+ action. At eight minutes the gaff and main-topgallant-mast came
+ down, and at twenty minutes from the beginning of the action,
+ 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 main-mast going close by the deck, and the fore-mast twelve
+ or fifteen feet above it.
+
+ The courage and exertions of the officers and crew fully answered
+ my expectations and wishes. Lieutenant 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. Lieutenants Rodgers,
+ Booth, and Mr. Rapp shewed, 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 promptitude highly honourable, and, I trust, have given
+ assurance that they may be relied on whenever their services may
+ be required.
+
+ 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 exertion 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 number killed
+ must have been about thirty, and that of the wounded about forty
+ or fifty: of the killed is her first lieutenant and sailing
+ master; of the wounded Captain Whinyates and the second
+ lieutenant.
+
+ We had five killed and five wounded, as per list; the wounded are
+ recovering. Lieutenant 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 shewed, by
+ his composed manner of noting incidents, that we had lost, by his
+ illness, the services of a brave officer.
+
+ I am, respectfully yours, etc.,
+ Jacob JONES.
+
+
+
+No. 27. (p. 163)
+PLATE XXVIII.
+
+
+_October 25, 1812._
+
+ Stephanus Decatur navarchus, pugnis pluribus, victor. [Rx].
+ Occidit signum hostile sidera surgunt.
+
+CAPTAIN STEPHEN DECATUR.
+
+[_Capture of the Macedonian._]
+
+STEPHANUS DECATUR NAVARCHUS, PUGNIS PLURIBUS, VICTOR. (_Stephen
+Decatur, a naval captain, conqueror in many battles._) Bust of Captain
+Decatur, in uniform, facing the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+OCCIDIT SIGNUM HOSTILE SIDERA SURGUNT. (_The enemy's standard falls,
+the stars arise._) Naval action between the United States frigate
+United States, of forty-four guns, Captain Decatur, and the British
+frigate Macedonian, of forty-nine guns, Captain Carden; the United
+States, to leeward, is firing her port broadside; the Macedonian has
+lost her mizzenmast, her fore and main-topmasts, and her mainyard.
+Exergue: INTER STA. UNI. NAV. AMERI. ET MACEDO. NAV. ANG. DIE XXV
+OCTOBRIS MDCCCXII. (_Inter United States navem Americanam et
+Macedonian navem Anglicanam, die 25 Octobris, 1812: Between the
+American vessel United States and the English vessel Macedonian,
+October 25, 1812._) On the platform, FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+STEPHEN DECATUR was born in Sinnepuxent, Worcester County, Maryland,
+January 5, 1779. He was appointed a midshipman, 1798; a lieutenant,
+1799; served in the Mediterranean under Commodore Dale, 1801, and
+under Commodore Preble, 1803; and, while in command of the Intrepid,
+destroyed the Philadelphia, off Tripoli, February 15, 1804. For this
+gallant deed he was immediately promoted to the rank of captain. (p. 164)
+He commanded a division of gunboats under Preble in the subsequent
+attacks on Tripoli. On October 25, 1812, when in command of the
+frigate United States, he captured the British frigate Macedonian,
+Captain John Carden, for which action Congress gave him a vote of
+thanks and a gold medal. In January, 1815, he left New London as
+commodore, having his flag on the President, but was soon afterward
+captured by an English fleet. The same year he sailed for the
+Mediterranean in command of a squadron, and made treaties with
+Algiers, Tunis, and Tripoli. On his return home he became a member of
+the Naval Board. He was shot in a duel by Commodore Barron, at
+Bladensburg, Maryland, March 22, 1820, and died the same evening.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.[79]
+
+ [Footnote 79: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal is given under No. 25, page 154.]
+
+_Captain Decatur to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To the Honourable United States ship United States,
+ Paul HAMILTON, at Sea, October 30, 1812.
+ Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour to inform you, that on the 25th instant,
+ being in the latitude 29 deg., N., longitude 29 deg., 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
+ Carden, and mounting 49 carriage guns (the odd gun shifting). She
+ is a frigate of the largest class, two years old, four months out
+ of dock, and reputed one of the best sailors in the British
+ service. The enemy being to windward, had the advantage of
+ engaging us at his own distance, which was so great, that for the
+ first half hour we did not use our carronades, and at no moment
+ was he within the complete effect of our musketry or 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 for me to
+ discriminate. Permit me, however, to recommend to your particular
+ notice my first Lieutenant, William H. Allen. He has served with
+ me upwards of five years, and to his unremitted exertions in
+ disciplining the crew, is to be imputed the obvious superiority
+ of our gunnery exhibited in the result of this contest.
+
+ Subjoined is a list of the killed and wounded on both sides. (p. 165)
+ Our loss, compared with that of the enemy, will appear small.
+ Amongst our wounded, you will observe the name of Lieutenant
+ Funk, who died in a few hours after the action: he was an
+ officer of great gallantry and promise, and the service has
+ sustained a severe loss in his death.
+
+ The Macedonian lost her mizzen-mast, fore and main-top-masts and
+ main yard, and was much cut up in her hull. The 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 cruize.
+
+ With the highest consideration, I am, yours, etc.,
+ Stephen DECATUR.
+
+ Killed 5
+ Wounded 7--1 since dead.
+ --
+ 12
+
+ MACEDONIAN.
+
+ Killed 36
+ Wounded 68
+ ---
+ 104
+
+
+
+No. 28. (p. 166)
+PLATE XXIX.
+
+
+_December 29, 1812._
+
+ Gulielmus Bainbridge patria victisque laudatus. [Rx]. Pugnando.
+
+CAPTAIN WILLIAM BAINBRIDGE.
+
+[_Capture of the Java._]
+
+GULIELMUS BAINBRIDGE PATRIA VICTISQUE LAUDATUS. (_William Bainbridge
+praised by his country and by the vanquished foe._) Bust of Captain
+Bainbridge, in uniform, facing the right; underneath, a star. FUeRST.
+F. (_fecit_).
+
+PUGNANDO. (_In fighting._) The naval action is over. The British
+frigate Java, of forty-nine guns, Captain Lambert, is completely
+dismasted; while the United States frigate Constitution, of forty-four
+guns, Captain Bainbridge, is but slightly damaged in her rigging.
+Exergue: INTER CONST. NAV. AMERI. ET JAV. NAV. ANGL. DIE XXIX DECEM.
+MDCCCXII. (_Inter Constitution navem Americanam et Java navem,
+Anglicanam, die 29 Decembris, 1812: Between the American vessel
+Constitution and the English vessel Java, December 29, 1812._) FUeRST.
+F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+WILLIAM BAINBRIDGE was born in Princeton, New Jersey, May 7, 1774. He
+began life in the merchant service, but entered the navy as lieutenant
+in 1798, was master-commandant in 1799, and captain in 1800. With the
+frigate George Washington he went to Algiers, whence he conveyed an
+ambassador to Constantinople, the George Washington being the first
+American vessel ever seen there. He commanded the Philadelphia when
+she was lost off Tripoli, November 1, 1803. After his return to the
+United States he did not serve again afloat till 1812, when he
+obtained the command of the Constitution; and on December 29 of the
+same year he captured the British frigate Java, Captain Lambert, (p. 167)
+for which action Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold medal.
+After the war he commanded twice in the Mediterranean, and after
+1821 served on shore, commanding different navy yards, and was
+president of the Naval Board. He died in Philadelphia, July 28, 1833.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captain Bainbridge, etc._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States be, and he is hereby, requested to
+ present to Captain William Bainbridge, of the frigate
+ Constitution, a gold medal, with suitable emblems and devices;
+ and a silver medal,[80] with suitable emblems and devices, to
+ each commissioned officer of the said frigate, in testimony of
+ the high sense entertained by Congress of the gallantry, good
+ conduct, and services of Captain Bainbridge, his officers, and
+ crew, in the capture of the British frigate Java, after a brave
+ and skillful combat.
+
+ [Footnote 80: The silver medals are copies of the
+ one in gold given to Captain Bainbridge.]
+
+ Approved March 3, 1813.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Bainbridge to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To
+ THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY, United States frigate Constitution,
+ Washington, D. C. St. Salvador, January 3d, 1813.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour to inform you that on the 29th ultimo, at
+ 2 P.M., in south latitude 13 deg., 06', and west longitude 39 deg., ten
+ leagues distance from the coast of Brazils, I fell in with and
+ captured His Britannic Majesty's frigate Java, of 49 guns, and
+ upwards of 400 men, commanded by Captain Lambert, a very
+ distinguished officer. The action lasted one hour and fifty-five
+ minutes, in which time the enemy was completely dismasted, not
+ having a spar of any kind standing. The loss on board the
+ Constitution was 9 killed and 25 wounded, as per enclosed list.
+ The enemy had 60 killed and 101 wounded, certainly (among the
+ latter, Captain Lambert, mortally), but by the enclosed letter,
+ written on board the 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
+ letter states 60 killed and 170 wounded.
+
+ For further details of the action, I beg leave to refer you (p. 168)
+ 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 Lieutenant-General Hyslop, appointed to the command
+ of Bombay, Major Walker and Captain Wood, of his staff, and
+ Captain 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; therefore, 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 notice of government, as also the unfortunate seamen who were
+ wounded, and the families of those men who fell in the action.
+
+ The great distance from our own coast, and the perfect wreck we
+ made the enemy's frigate, forbid every idea of attempting to take
+ her to the United States; and not considering it prudent to trust
+ her in a port of Brazils, particularly St. Salvador, I had no
+ alternative but burning her, which I did on the 31st ultimo,
+ after receiving all the prisoners and their baggage, which was
+ very tedious 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 this place, where
+ I have landed all the prisoners on their parole, to return to
+ England and there remain until regularly exchanged, and not serve
+ in their professional capacities in any place or in any manner
+ whatever, against the United States of America, until the
+ exchange shall be effected.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ W. BAINBRIDGE.
+
+ _____
+
+_Extract from Captain Bainbridge's Journal, containing minutes of the
+action with the British frigate Java._
+
+ "_Wednesday, December 30th, 1812_ (nautical time) in latitude 13
+ degrees, 6 minutes South, and longitude 39 West, ten leagues from
+ the coast of Brazil, commences with clear weather and moderate
+ breezes from east north-east, hoisted our ensign and pendant. At
+ 15 minutes past meridian, the ship hoisted her colours, an
+ English ensign having a signal flying at her main, red, yellow
+ and red. At 1.26 P.M. being sufficiently from the 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 1.50 P.M. the
+ enemy bore down with the 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 an
+ Union Jack at the mizzen-mast head, induced me to give orders to
+ the officers of the 3d division to fire one gun ahead of the
+ enemy to make him show his colours, which being done, brought on
+ a fire from us of the whole broadside, on which the enemy hoisted
+ his colours and immediately returned our fire. A general action
+ with round and grape then commenced, the enemy keeping at a (p. 169)
+ much greater distance than I wished, but could not bring him to
+ 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 2.10 P.M. commenced the action within good grape and canister
+ distance, the enemy to windward, but much further than I wished.
+ At 2.30 our wheel was shot entirely away; 2.40, determined to
+ close with the enemy, notwithstanding his raking, set the fore
+ and main-sail and luffed up close to him; 2.50, the enemy's
+ jib-boom got foul of our mizzen rigging; 3, the head of the
+ enemy's bowsprit and jib-boom shot away by us; 3.5, shot away the
+ enemy's foremast by the board; 3.15, shot away his main-top-mast
+ just above the cap; 3.40, shot away gaff and spanker boom; 3.55,
+ shot away his mizzenmast nearly by the board; 4.5, having
+ silenced the fire of the enemy completely, and his colours in
+ main rigging being down, supposed he had struck, then hauled
+ aboard the courses to shoot ahead to repair our rigging, which
+ was extremely cut, leaving the enemy a complete wreck. Soon after
+ discovered the enemy's flag was still flying; hove to, to repair
+ some of our damage; 4.20, the enemy's main-mast went nearly by
+ the board; 4.50, wore ship and stood for the enemy; 5.25, got
+ very close to the enemy in a very effectual _raking position_,
+ athwart his bows, and was at the very instant of raking him, when
+ he most prudently struck his flag, for had he suffered the
+ broadside to have raked him, his additional loss must have been
+ extremely great, as he laid an unmanageable wreck upon the water.
+
+ "After the enemy had struck, wore ship and reefed the topsails,
+ then hoisted out one of the only two remaining boats we had left
+ out of eight, and sent Lieutenant Parker, 1st of the
+ Constitution, to take possession of the enemy, which proved to be
+ His Britannic Majesty's frigate Java, rated 38 but carried 49
+ guns, and manned with upwards of 400 men, commanded by Captain
+ Lambert, a very distinguished officer, who was mortally wounded.
+ The action continued, from the commencement to the end of the
+ fire, one hour and fifty-five minutes. The Constitution had 9
+ killed and 25 wounded. The enemy had 60 killed and 101 certainly
+ wounded, but by a letter written on board the Constitution, by
+ one of the officers of the Java, and accidentally found, it is
+ evident the enemy's wounded must have been considerably greater
+ than as above stated, and who must have died of their wounds
+ previously to their being removed. The letter states 60 killed
+ and 170 wounded. The Java had her own complement of men complete,
+ and upwards of one hundred supernumeraries, going to join the
+ British ships-of-war in the East Indies; also several officers,
+ passengers, going out on promotion. The force of the enemy in
+ number of men, at the commencement of the action, was no doubt
+ considerably greater than we have been able to ascertain, which
+ is upwards of 400 men. The officers were extremely cautious in
+ discovering the number. By her quarter bill she had one man more
+ stationed at each gun than we had.
+
+ "The Constitution was very much cut in her sails and rigging, and
+ many of her spars injured. At 7 P.M. the boat returned with
+ Lieutenant Chads, the first lieutenant of the enemy's frigate,
+ and Lieutenant-General Hyslop (appointed governor of Bombay),
+ Major Walker and Captain Wood, belonging to his staff. Captain
+ Lambert, of the Java, was too dangerously wounded to be (p. 170)
+ removed immediately. The cutter returned on board the prize for
+ the prisoners, and brought Captain Marshall, master and commander
+ of the British navy, who was passenger on board, as also several
+ other naval officers, destined for ships in the East Indies.
+
+ "The Java was an important ship, fitted out in the completest
+ manner, to carry Lieutenant-General Hyslop and staff to Bombay,
+ and several naval officers for different ships in the East
+ Indies; and had despatches for St. Helena, Cape of Good Hope, and
+ every British establishment in the India and China seas. She had
+ on board copper for a 74 and two brigs building at Bombay, and I
+ expect a great many other valuables; but everything was blown up
+ in her except the officers' baggage, when we set her on fire at 3
+ P.M., on the 1st of January, 1813 (nautical time)."
+
+[Copy.]
+
+_H. D. Corneck to Lieutenant Wood._
+
+ Prisoner on board the American frigate Constitution.
+ To LIEUTENANT PETER V. WOOD,
+ 22d Regiment of Foot, St. Salvador, Brazils, January 1st, 1813.
+ Isle of France or Bourbon, East Indies.
+
+ My dear Sir: I am sorry to inform you of the unpleasant news of
+ Mr. Gascoigne's death. Mr. Gascoigne and myself were shipmates in
+ Marlboro', and first came to sea together. He was shot in the
+ early part of the action by a round shot in his right thigh, and
+ died a few minutes after; four others of his messmates shared the
+ same fate, together with 60 men killed and 170 wounded. The
+ official account you no doubt heard of before this reaches you. I
+ beg you will let all his friends and relations hear of his
+ untimely fate. We were on board the Java frigate for a passage to
+ India, when we fell in with this frigate. Two parcels I have sent
+ you under good care. Hope this will reach you safe.
+
+ Yours truly,
+ H. D. CORNECK.
+
+ [A true copy.]
+ William BAINBRIDGE.
+
+
+
+No. 29. (p. 171)
+PLATE XXX.
+
+
+_September 4, 1813._
+
+ Edward [Rx]. McCall navis Enterprise praefectus. Sic itur ad astra.
+ [Rx]. Vivere sat vincere.
+
+LIEUTENANT EDWARD RUTLEDGE McCALL.
+
+[_Capture of the Boxer._]
+
+EDWARD R. _(Rutledge)_ McCALL NAVIS ENTERPRISE _(sic)_ PRAEFECTUS. SIC
+ITUR AD ASTRA.[81] (_Edward Rutledge McCall, Commander of the vessel
+Enterprize. Thus one attains glory._) Bust of Lieutenant McCall, in
+uniform, facing the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+ [Footnote 81: Virgil, AEneid, Book IX, 641.]
+
+VIVERE SAT VINCERE. (_To conquer is to live enough._) Naval engagement
+between the United States brig-of-war Enterprize, of fourteen guns,
+Lieutenant-Commander Burrows, and the British brig-of-war Boxer, of
+fourteen guns, Captain Blythe. The Enterprize is raking the Boxer,
+fore and aft. The latter has lost her main-topmast. Exergue: INTER
+ENTERPRIZE NAV. AMERI. ET BOXER NAV. BRIT.[82] DIE IV SEPT. MDCCCXIII.
+(_Inter Enterprize navem Americanam et Boxer navem Britannicam, die 4
+Septembris, 1813: Between the American vessel Enterprize and the
+British vessel Boxer, September 4, 1813._) FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+ [Footnote 82: It is singular that on some of the
+ silver coins of Great Britain the abbreviation
+ BRIT. (Britanniarum) is spelled with one _t_, and
+ on some of the copper coins, with two _t's_, thus,
+ BRITT.]
+
+
+EDWARD RUTLEDGE MCCALL was born in Charleston, South Carolina, August
+5, 1790. He entered the navy in January, 1808. In 1813 he was first
+lieutenant of the Enterprize, under Lieutenant Burrows, in the action
+with the Boxer, took the command after that officer fell, and captured
+the British vessel, for which gallant deed Congress gave him a (p. 172)
+vote of thanks and a gold medal. He afterward served in the
+Mediterranean under Commodore Perry, was promoted to the rank of
+master-commandant in 1825, and to that of captain in 1835. He died in
+Bordentown, New Jersey, July 31, 1853.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Lieutenants McCall, Burrows,
+etc._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States be requested to present to the
+ nearest male relative of Lieutenant William Burrows, and to
+ Lieutenant Edward R. McCall, of the brig Enterprize, a gold
+ medal, with suitable emblems and devices; and a silver medal,[83]
+ with like emblems and devices, to each of the commissioned
+ officers of the aforesaid vessel, in testimony of the high sense
+ entertained by Congress of the gallantry and good conduct of the
+ officers and crew in the conflict with the British sloop Boxer,
+ on the fourth of September, in the year 1813. And the President
+ is also requested to communicate to the nearest male relative of
+ Lieutenant Burrows the deep regret which Congress feel for the
+ loss of that valuable officer, who died in the arms of victory,
+ nobly contending for his country's rights and fame.
+
+ [Footnote 83: The silver medals are copies of the
+ one in gold given to Lieutenant McCall.]
+
+ Approved January 6, 1814.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Hull to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To the Honourable United States Navy Yard, Portsmouth,
+ William JONES, September 14th, 1813.
+ Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour to forward to you, by the 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
+ United States 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 honour.
+
+ He went into action most gallantly, and the difference of injury
+ done the two vessels proves how nobly he fought.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Isaac HULL.
+
+ _____
+
+_Lieutenant McCall to Captain Hull._ (p. 173)
+
+ To United States Brig Enterprize,
+ Isaac HULL, Esq., Portland, September 7th, 1813.
+ United States Navy Yard, Portsmouth.
+
+ Sir: In consequence of the unfortunate death of
+ Lieutenant-Commander William Burrows, late commander of this
+ vessel, it devolves on me to acquaint you with the result of our
+ cruize. After sailing from Portsmouth on the 1st instant, we
+ steered to the eastward, and on the morning 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 cruize to the eastward. Having
+ 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 weigh, 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 reconnoitering and discovering her force,
+ and the nation to which she belonged, we hauled upon a wind to
+ stand out of the bay, and at 3 o'clock shortened sail, tacked and
+ ran 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 enemy hailed and said they had
+ surrendered, about 4 P.M. Their colours being nailed to the
+ masts, could not be hauled down. She proved to be His Britannic
+ Majesty's brig Boxer, of 14 guns, Samuel Blythe, Esquire,
+ 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 Lieutenant Burrows, who had gallantly led us to action, fell
+ also about the same time by a musket ball, which terminated his
+ existence in eight hours.
+
+ The Enterprize suffered much in spars and rigging, and the Boxer
+ both in spars, rigging and hull, having many shots between wind
+ and water. It would be doing injustice to the merit of Mr.
+ Tillinghast, 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 the officers and crew, generally, I am happy to
+ add, from their cool and determined conduct, have my warmest
+ approbation and applause.
+
+ As no muster roll that can be fully relied on came into my
+ possession, I cannot exactly state the number killed on board the
+ Boxer; but from information received from the officers of that
+ vessel, it appears that there are between twenty and twenty-five
+ killed, and fourteen wounded. Enclosed is a list of killed and
+ wounded on board the Enterprize.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Edward R. M'CALL, _Senior Officer_.
+
+ _Killed_ 1, _Wounded_ 13; of whom Lieutenant Burrows, Commander,
+ Midshipman Kervan Waters, and carpenter's mate Elisha Blossom,
+ have since died.
+
+
+
+No. 30. (p. 174)
+PLATE XXXI.
+
+
+_September 4, 1813._
+
+ Victoriam tibi claram. patriae maestam. [Rx]. Vivere sat vincere.
+
+LIEUTENANT WILLIAM BURROWS.
+
+[_Capture of the Boxer._]
+
+VICTORIAM TIBI CLARAM. PATRIAE MAESTAM (_sic_). (_A victory brilliant
+for thee, sorrowful for thy country_). A funeral urn upon a tomb is
+surrounded with naval emblems; a crown of laurel is hanging from a
+trident, and in a cartoon of elliptical form: W. (_William_) BURROWS.
+FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+VIVERE SAT VINCERE. (_To conquer is to live enough._) Naval engagement
+between the United States brig-of-war Enterprize, of fourteen guns,
+Lieutenant-Commander Burrows, and the British brig-of-war Boxer, of
+fourteen guns, Captain Blythe. The Enterprize is raking the Boxer,
+fore and aft. The latter has lost her main-topmast. Exergue: INTER
+ENTERPRIZE NAV. AMERI. ET BOXER NAV. BRIT. DIE IV SEPT. MDCCCXIII.
+(_Inter Enterprize navem Americanam et Boxer navem Britannicam, die 4
+Septembris, 1813: Between the American vessel Enterprize and the
+British vessel Boxer, September 4, 1813._) FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).[84]
+
+ [Footnote 84: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal, and the official reports of the capture
+ of the Boxer, are given under No. 29, page 171.]
+
+
+WILLIAM BURROWS was born in Kenderton, near Philadelphia, October 6,
+1785. He entered the navy as midshipman, January 4, 1800; served in
+the Constitution under Commodore Preble in the campaign against
+Tripoli; returned to America about 1807 as lieutenant, and served in
+different vessels on various stations. In the summer of 1813, he
+obtained the command of the sloop-of-war Enterprize, with which, (p. 175)
+on September 5, he engaged the British sloop-of-war Boxer, Captain
+Blythe, but was killed in the beginning of the action, as was also the
+commander of the enemy's vessel, and they were both buried with
+military honors at Portland, Maine. Congress, by joint resolution,
+approved January 6, 1814, requested the President of the United States
+to present to the nearest male relative of Lieutenant Burrows a gold
+medal, and to communicate to him the deep regret they felt at this
+officer's loss.
+
+
+
+No. 31. (p. 176)
+PLATE XXXII.
+
+
+_September 10, 1813._
+
+ Oliverus H. Perry, princeps stagno Eriense. classim totam
+ contudit. [Rx]. Viam invenit virtus aut facit.
+
+CAPTAIN OLIVER HAZARD PERRY.
+
+[_Victory of Lake Erie._]
+
+OLIVERUS H. (_Hazard_) PERRY. PRINCEPS STAGNO ERIENSE. CLASSIM TOTAM
+CONTUDIT. (_Oliver Hazard Perry, commander-in-chief, destroyed on Lake
+Erie an entire fleet._) Bust of Captain Perry, in uniform, facing the
+right.
+
+VIAM INVENIT VIRTUS AUT FACIT. (_Valor finds or makes a way._) The
+United States fleet on Lake Erie, carrying fifty-four guns, and
+commanded by Captain Perry, stands out to meet the British fleet with
+sixty-three guns, under Captain Barclay. Exergue: INTER CLASS. AMERI.
+ET BRIT. DIE X. SEP. MDCCCXIII. (_Inter classim Americanam et
+Britannicam, die 10 Septembris, 1813: Between the American and British
+fleets, September 10, 1813._) FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+OLIVER HAZARD PERRY was born in South Kingston, Rhode Island, August
+23, 1785. He entered the navy as a midshipman, April 7, 1799, on the
+sloop-of-war General Greene, then commanded by his father, Captain
+Christopher Raymond Perry. He served in the Mediterranean during the
+Tripolitan war, was made lieutenant in 1807, and master-commandant in
+1812, when he received a division of gunboats at Newport, Rhode
+Island. In February, 1813, he was transferred to the command on Lake
+Erie, where, on September 10, he defeated and captured the entire
+British squadron under Captain Barclay. For this important victory he
+received the thanks of Congress and a gold medal, and was promoted to
+the rank of captain, and as such commanded the Java in the (p. 177)
+Mediterranean for several years. In March, 1819, he set out with a
+squadron for the coast of South America, and died of yellow fever at
+Port Spain, Trinidad, August 23, 1819. The remains of Commodore Perry
+were transferred, in 1827, by order of the Government, in the United
+States ship Lexington, to Newport, Rhode Island. His battle-flag on
+Lake Erie, with the motto "Don't give up the ship!" is preserved in
+the Naval Academy, at Annapolis.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to Captains Perry, Elliott,
+etc._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ thanks of Congress be, and the same are hereby, presented to
+ Captain Oliver Hazard Perry, and through him to the officers,
+ petty officers, seamen, marines, and infantry serving as such,
+ attached to the squadron under his command, for the decisive and
+ glorious victory gained on Lake Erie, on the tenth of September,
+ in the year 1813, over a British squadron of superior force.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to cause gold medals to be struck, emblematical of the action
+ between the two squadrons, and to present them to Captain Perry
+ and Captain Jesse D. Elliott, in such manner as will be most
+ honourable to them; and that the President be further requested
+ to present a silver medal,[85] with suitable emblems and devices,
+ to each of the commissioned officers, either of the navy or army,
+ serving on board, and a sword to each of the midshipmen and
+ sailing-masters who so nobly distinguished themselves on that
+ memorable day.
+
+ [Footnote 85: The silver medals are copies of the
+ ones in gold given to the captains of the
+ respective ships.]
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to present a silver medal, with like emblems and devices, to the
+ nearest male relative of Lieutenant John Brooks, of the marines,
+ and a sword to the nearest male relatives of Midshipmen Henry
+ Lamb, and Thomas Claxton, jr., and to communicate to them the
+ deep regret which Congress feel for the loss of those gallant
+ men, whose names ought to live in the recollection and affection
+ of a grateful country, and whose conduct ought to be regarded as
+ an example to future generations.
+
+ _Resolved_, That three months' pay be allowed, exclusively of the
+ common allowance, to all the petty officers, seamen, marines, and
+ infantry serving as such, who so gloriously supported the honour
+ of the American flag, under the orders of their gallant
+ commander, on that signal occasion.
+
+ Approved January 6, 1814.
+
+ _____
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the (p. 178)
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States be requested to present a sword to
+ the nearest male relation of Midshipman John Clarke, who was
+ slain gallantly combating the enemy in the glorious battle gained
+ on Lake Erie, under the command of Captain Perry, and to
+ communicate to him the deep regret which Congress feels for the
+ loss of that brave officer.
+
+ Approved February 19, 1814.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain O. H. Perry to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To the Honourable U.S. brig Niagara, off the Western Sisters,
+ William JONES, Head of Lake Erie, Sept. 10, 1813, 4 P.M.
+ Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: 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 two ships, two brigs, one
+ schooner, and one sloop, have this moment surrendered to the
+ force under my command, after a sharp conflict.
+
+ I have the honour to be, etc.,
+ O. H. PERRY.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain O. H. Perry to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To the Honourable United States schooner Ariel,
+ William JONES, Put-in-Bay, Sept. 13, 1813.
+ Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: In my last I informed you that we had captured the enemy's
+ fleet on this lake. I have now the honour 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 anchor with the squadron under my command. We got under
+ weigh, the wind light at south-west, and stood for them. At 10
+ A.M. the wind hauled to south-east and brought us to windward;
+ formed the line and bore up. At 15 minutes before 12, the enemy
+ commenced firing; at five 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 vessels to follow, for the purpose
+ of closing with the enemy. Every brace and bow line being soon
+ shot away, she became unmanageable, notwithstanding the great
+ exertions of the sailing master. In this situation, she sustained
+ the action upwards of two hours within canister distance, until
+ every gun was rendered useless, and the greater part of her crew
+ either killed or wounded. Finding she could no longer annoy (p. 179)
+ the enemy, I left her in charge of Lieutenant Yarnall, who,
+ I was convinced, from the bravery already displayed by him, would
+ do what would comport with the honour of the flag. At half-past
+ two, the wind springing up Captain Elliot was enabled to bring
+ his vessel, the Niagara, gallantly into close action. I
+ immediately went on board of her, when he anticipated my wish by
+ volunteering to bring the schooner which had been kept astern by
+ the lightness of the wind into close action. It was with
+ unspeakable pain that I saw, soon after I got on board the
+ Niagara, the flag of the Lawrence come down, although I was
+ perfectly sensible that she had been defended to the last, and
+ that to have continued to 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 larboard side, at half pistol shot
+ distance. The smaller vessels at this time having got within
+ grape and canister distance, under the direction of Captain
+ 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 all
+ others conducted themselves as became American officers and
+ seamen. Lieutenant Yarnall, first of the Lawrence, although
+ several times wounded, refused to quit the deck. Midshipman
+ Forrest (doing duty as lieutenant), and sailing-master Taylor,
+ were of great assistance to me. I have great pain in stating to
+ you the death of Lieutenant Brooks, of the marines, and
+ midshipman Lamb, both of the Lawrence, and midshipman John
+ Clarke, of the Scorpion; they were valuable and promising
+ officers. Mr. Hambleton, purser, who volunteered his services on
+ deck, was severely wounded late in the action. Midshipman Claxton
+ and Swartout, of the Lawrence, were severely wounded. On board
+ the Niagara, Lieutenants Smith and Edwards, and midshipman
+ Webster (doing duty as sailing-master) behaved in a very handsome
+ manner. Captain Brevoort, of the army, who acted as a volunteer
+ in the capacity of a marine officer, on board that vessel, is an
+ excellent and brave officer, and with his musketry did great
+ execution. Lieutenant Turner, commanding the Caledonia, brought
+ that vessel into action in the most able manner, and is an
+ officer that, in all situations, may be relied on. The Ariel,
+ Lieutenant Parker, and Scorpion, sailing-master Champlin, were
+ enabled to get early into action, and were of great service.
+ Captain Elliot speaks in the highest terms of Mr. Magrath,
+ purser, who had been despatched in a boat on service, previous to
+ my getting on board the Niagara, and, being a seaman, since the
+ action has rendered essential service in taking charge of one of
+ the prizes. Of Captain Elliot, already so well known to the
+ government, it would be almost superfluous to speak; in this
+ action, he evinced his characteristic bravery and judgment; and,
+ since the close of the action, has given me the most able and
+ essential assistance.
+
+ I have the honour to enclose you a return of the killed and (p. 180)
+ wounded, together with a statement of the relative force of
+ the squadrons. The captain and first lieutenant of the Queen
+ Charlotte, and first lieutenant of the Detroit, were killed.
+ Captain Barclay, senior officer, and the commander of the Lady
+ Prevost, severely wounded. Their loss in killed and wounded I
+ have not yet been able to ascertain; it must, however, have been
+ very great.
+
+ Very respectfully, &c.,
+ O. H. PERRY.
+
+ _Statement of the force of the British squadron._
+
+ Ship Detroit 19 guns: 1 on pivot and 2 howitzers.
+ Queen Charlotte 17 " 1 "
+ Schooner Lady Prevost 13 " 1 "
+ Brig Hunter 10 "
+ Sloop Little Belt 3 "
+ Schooner Chippeway 1 " 2 swivels.
+ --
+ 63 guns.
+
+ NOTE: The Detroit is a new ship, very strongly built, and mounts
+ long twenty-fours, eighteens and twelves.
+
+ _Statement of the force of the United States squadron._
+
+ Brig Lawrence 20 guns.
+ " Niagara 20 "
+ " Caledonia 3 "
+ Schooner Ariel 4 " (1 burst early in action.)
+ " Scorpion 2 "
+ " Somers 2 " and 2 swivels.
+ Sloop Trippe 1 "
+ Schooner Tigress 1 "
+ " Porcupine 1 "
+ --
+ 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
+ 100 men.
+
+ S. HAMBLETON, _Purser_.
+ O. H. PERRY, _Captain and senior officer_.
+
+ _____
+
+_The Secretary of the Navy to George Harrison._
+
+ To
+ George HARRISON, Esq., Navy Department,
+ Navy Agent, Philadelphia. July 4th, 1814.
+
+ Sir: In order to have made the swords and medals contemplated by
+ the inclosed resolutions of Congress, I have to request that you
+ will engage artists for that purpose whose abilities and (p. 181)
+ taste will insure their being executed in the best manner.
+ You will perceive by the resolution that the device for the medal
+ for Captains Perry and Elliott must be emblematical of the action
+ on Lake Erie; and, it appears to me, that representations of the
+ several engagements are the most suitable devices for the others.
+ The best representations of those engagements yet engraved may be
+ seen, I understand, in the Academy of Arts at Philadelphia, where
+ the artists and amateurs might readily determine on the devices.
+ The number of dies for the medals will be as follows, viz.:
+
+ Capture of the Guerriere by the Constitution 1
+ " " Macedonian by the United States 1
+ " " Frolic by the Wasp 1
+ " " Java by the Constitution 1
+ " " Peacock by the Hornet 1
+ " " Boxer by the Enterprize 1
+ Victory on Lake Erie 1
+ --
+ Dies 7
+
+ The reverse of the medals will be properly appropriated to the
+ respective portraits of the several commanders, which, I believe,
+ have all been published. These, however, ought to be correct
+ likenesses. Of the number of medals of each kind to be struck,
+ you will be informed in due time.
+
+ As it will scarcely be possible to represent distinctly the
+ deeply interesting scenes of the memorable victory of Erie on one
+ face of the medal, it may be well to omit the portrait of
+ Commodore Perry, and divide the representation of the action into
+ two prominent and distinct parts which mark the crisis of the
+ battle, in the first terminating with the abandonment of the
+ Lawrence, and the passage of the hero in his gig, with his flag,
+ from that ship to the Niagara. Second, the bringing up of the
+ gunboats and small vessels by Captain Elliott, and the subsequent
+ breaking through the enemy's line and capture of his whole fleet.
+ Thus the entire action may be distinctly and beautifully
+ represented.
+
+ Herewith you will receive one of the medals struck for Commodore
+ Preble, which is tolerably well executed and of good size. The
+ emblematical figures ought to be bold and distinct, rather than
+ minutely delineated, which renders the effect less striking and
+ enhances the labour and cost. With respect to the cost it must be
+ regulated by a due attention to the views of the Legislature and
+ to economy without parsimony.
+
+ The number is considerable, and will require all the artists who
+ are qualified for the execution.
+
+ It is very desirable to have them completed as soon as possible,
+ and particularly before the next meeting of Congress. If the
+ number of artists in Philadelphia shall not be sufficient, you
+ will employ those of New York or elsewhere. I submit this
+ business to your care with confidence and pleasure, because I
+ know that your own discriminating tastes and judgment in these
+ matters will be combined with your admiration of the men, and the
+ scenes to be commemorated, in producing the best and most speedy
+ execution.
+
+ The sword for Captain Elliott will be an elegant dress sword; (p. 182)
+ a cut and thrust, with belt, &c., such in form as is prescribed
+ for a dress sword of a captain in the navy, but decorated with
+ devices and inscriptions suitable to the occasion, and finished in
+ the best style the sum of $800 will procure. The swords of the
+ warrant officers, twelve in number, will be of the same form
+ and with proper belts, &c., will be finished in the best style
+ that $250 each will procure. These you will please have finished
+ as soon as possible.
+
+ The medals should be finished in succession according to the
+ order of the dates of the events, unless the whole can be put in
+ hand at once, which is very desirable.
+
+ I am respectfully, Sir, your most obedient servant,
+ W. JONES, _Secretary of the Navy_.
+
+
+
+No. 32. (p. 183)
+PLATE XXXIII.
+
+
+_September 10, 1813._
+
+ Jesse D. Elliott. Nil actum reputans si quid superesset agendum.
+ [Rx]. Viam invenit virtus aut facit.
+
+CAPTAIN JESSE DUNCAN ELLIOTT.
+
+[_Victory of Lake Erie._]
+
+JESSE D. (_Duncan_) ELLIOTT. NIL ACTUM REPUTANS SI QUID SUPERESSET
+AGENDUM.[86] (_Jesse Duncan Elliott. Considering nothing done, if
+aught remained to be done._) Bust of Captain Elliott, in uniform,
+facing the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+ [Footnote 86: Nil actum credens quum quid
+ superesset agendum. Lucan, Pharsalia, Book II,
+ 657.]
+
+VIAM INVENIT VIRTUS AUT FACIT. (_Valor finds or makes a way._) The
+United States fleet on Lake Erie, carrying fifty-four guns, and
+commanded by Captain Perry, stands out to meet the British fleet with
+sixty-three guns, under Captain Barclay. Exergue: INTER CLASS. AMERI.
+ET BRIT. DIE X. SEP. MDCCCXIII. (_Inter classim Americanam et
+Britannicam, die 10 Septembris, 1813: Between the American and British
+fleets, September 10, 1813._) FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).[87]
+
+ [Footnote 87: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal, and the official reports of the action
+ on Lake Erie, are given under No. 31, page 176.]
+
+
+JESSE DUNCAN ELLIOTT was born in Maryland, July 14, 1782. He was
+appointed midshipman in 1804; was promoted to be lieutenant in 1810;
+served under Commodore Chauncey on the lakes in 1812; and on October
+8, commanding an expedition, he cut out two British ships from under
+Fort Erie. For this daring act Congress voted him a sword of honor. He
+was master-commandant in July, 1813; and second in command in (p. 184)
+Perry's victory on Lake Erie, for which he received from Congress a
+vote of thanks and a gold medal. On Perry's departure in October,
+1815, he succeeded him in command. He became captain in 1818; and
+afterward commanded the Mediterranean squadron, and the navy yards of
+Boston and of Philadelphia. He died in Philadelphia, December 10,
+1845.
+
+
+
+No. 33. (p. 185)
+PLATE XXXIV.
+
+
+_February 24, 1813._
+
+ Jac Lawrence dulce et decorum est pro patria mori. [Rx].
+ Mansuetud. maj. quam victoria.
+
+CAPTAIN JAMES LAWRENCE.
+
+[_Capture of the Peacock._]
+
+JAC. (_Jacobus_) LAWRENCE DULCE ET DECORUM EST PRO PATRIA MORI[88]
+(_James Lawrence. It is sweet and becoming to die for one's country._)
+Bust of Captain Lawrence in uniform, facing the right. FUeRST. F.
+(_fecit_).
+
+ [Footnote 88: Horace, Book II, Ode II, 13.]
+
+MANSUETUD. MAJ. QUAM VICTORIA. (_Mansuetudo major quam victoria:
+Clemency greater than victory._) The action is over. The United States
+sloop-of-war Hornet, of twenty guns, Captain Lawrence, is lying to and
+sending her boats to the rescue of the crew of the British brig-of-war
+Peacock, of twenty-two guns, Captain Peake, which has lost her
+mainmast, and is going down head foremost. Exergue: INTER HORNET NAV
+AMERI ET PEACOCK NAV ANG DIE XXIV FEB MDCCCXIII. (_Inter Hornet, navem
+Americanam, et Peacock, navem Anglicanam, die 24 Februarii, 1813:
+Between the American vessel Hornet and the English vessel Peacock,
+February 24, 1813._) On the platform, FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+JAMES LAWRENCE was born in Burlington, New Jersey, October 1, 1781. He
+was appointed a midshipman in 1798, and became a lieutenant in 1802;
+served against Tripoli, 1802-1804, and was second in command under
+Decatur, in the Intrepid, when the Philadelphia was destroyed off (p. 186)
+Tripoli. In 1810 he became master-commandant, and on February 24,
+1813, with the Hornet, captured the British brig-of-war Peacock,
+Captain William Peake. For this action, Congress awarded him a vote of
+thanks and a gold medal. As captain he commanded the Chesapeake in
+1813 and fell, mortally wounded, in the engagement with the British
+ship Shannon, Captain Broke. His last words, when carried below, were,
+"Don't give up the ship!" He died four days after the combat, on June
+5, 1813, and was buried with military honors at Halifax, Nova Scotia.
+His remains were afterward taken to the United States, and now lie in
+Trinity church-yard, New York city.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captain Lawrence, etc._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States be requested to present to the
+ nearest male relative of Captain James Lawrence, a gold medal,
+ and a silver medal[89] to each of the commissioned officers who
+ served under him in the sloop-of-war Hornet, in her conflict with
+ the British vessel-of-war, the Peacock, in testimony of the high
+ sense entertained by Congress of the gallantry and good conduct
+ of the officers and crew in the capture of that vessel; and the
+ President is also requested to communicate to the nearest male
+ relative of Captain Lawrence the sense which Congress entertains
+ of the loss which the naval service of the United States has
+ since sustained in the death of that distinguished officer.
+
+ [Footnote 89: The silver medals are copies of the
+ one in gold given to Captain Lawrence.]
+
+ Approved January 11, 1814.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Lawrence to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To the Honourable United States ship Hornet,
+ William JONES, Holmes' Hole, March 19th, 1813.
+ Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour to inform you of the arrival, at this
+ port, of the United States ship Hornet, under my command, from a
+ cruise of 145 days, and to state to you, that after Commodore
+ Bainbridge left the coast of Brazils, (on the 6th of January
+ last,) the Hornet continued off the harbour of St. Salvador,
+ blockading the Bonne Citoyenne until the 24th, when the Montagu
+ 74 hove in sight, and chased me into the harbour; but night (p. 187)
+ coming on, I wore and stood to the southward. Knowing that
+ she had left Rio Janeiro for the express purpose of relieving the
+ Bonne Citoyenne and the packet, (which I had also blockaded for
+ fourteen days, and obliged her to send her mail to Rio in a
+ Portuguese smack,) I judged it most prudent to change my cruising
+ ground, and stood to the eastward, with the view of cruising off
+ Pernambuco; and on the 4th day of February, captured the English
+ brig Resolution, from Rio Janeiro, bound to Maranham, with
+ coffee, jerked beef, flour, fustic and butter, and about 25,000
+ dollars in specie. As the brig sailed dull, and could ill spare
+ hands to man her, I took out the money and set her on fire. I
+ then ran down the coast for Maranham, and cruised there for a
+ short time; from thence ran off Surinam. After cruising off that
+ coast from the 5th to the 22d of February, without meeting a
+ vessel, I stood for Demarara, with an intention, should I not be
+ fortunate on that station, to run through the West Indies, on my
+ way to the United States. But on the morning of the 24th, I
+ discovered a brig to leeward, to which I gave chase; ran into
+ quarter less four, and not having a pilot, was obliged to haul
+ off; the fort at the entrance of Demarara river at this time
+ bearing south west, distance about 2-1/2 leagues. Previously to
+ giving up the chase, I discovered 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. I discovered another sail on my weather quarter edging
+ down for us. At 4.20 minutes she hoisted English colours, at
+ which time we discovered her to be a large man-of-war brig; beat
+ to quarters, and cleared ship for action; kept close by the wind,
+ in order, if possible, to get to the weather gage. At 5.10
+ minutes, finding I could weather the enemy, I hoisted American
+ colours, and tacked. At 5.20 minutes, in passing each other,
+ exchanged broadsides within half pistol shot. Observing the enemy
+ in the act of wearing, I bore up, received his starboard
+ broadside, ran him close on board on the starboard quarter, and
+ kept up such a heavy and well directed fire, that in less than
+ fifteen minutes he surrendered, being literally cut to pieces,
+ and hoisted an ensign, union down, from his fore-rigging, as a
+ signal of distress. Shortly after, his main-mast went by the
+ board; dispatched Lieutenant Shubrick on board, who soon returned
+ with her first lieutenant, who reported her to be His Britannic
+ Majesty's late brig Peacock, commanded by Captain 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; dispatched the boats
+ immediately for the wounded, and brought both vessels to anchor.
+ Such shot-holes as could be got at were then plugged, her guns
+ thrown overboard, and every possible exertion used to keep her
+ afloat, until the prisoners could be removed, by pumping and
+ bailing, but without effect, and she unfortunately sunk in five
+ and a half fathoms water, carrying down thirteen of her crew and
+ three of my brave fellows, viz.: John Hart, Joseph Williams, and
+ Hannibal Boyd. Lieutenant Conner, Midshipman Cooper, and the
+ remainder of the Hornet's crew, employed in removing the
+ prisoners, with difficulty saved themselves by jumping in a boat
+ that was lying on her bows as she went down. Four men, of the
+ thirteen mentioned, were so fortunate as to gain the fore-top,
+ and were afterwards taken off by the boats. Previous to her going
+ down, four of her men took to her stern boat, which had been much
+ damaged during the action, which I hope reached the shore (p. 188)
+ 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 much fear they were lost. I have not been able to
+ ascertain from her officers the exact number killed. Captain
+ Peake and four men were found dead on board. The master, one
+ midshipman, carpenter, and captain's clerk, and twenty-nine
+ seamen were wounded, most of them very severely; three of them
+ died of their wounds after being removed, and nine drowned. Our
+ loss was trifling in comparison. John Place, killed; Samuel
+ Coulson and Joseph Dalrymple, slightly wounded; George Coffin and
+ Lewis Todd, severely burnt by the explosion of a cartridge. Todd
+ survived only a few days. Our rigging and sails were much cut;
+ one shot through the foremast, and the bowsprit slightly injured.
+ Our hull received little or no damage. At the time the Peacock
+ was brought to action, the L'Espiegle (the brig mentioned above
+ as being at anchor), mounting sixteen two-and-thirty pound
+ carronades, and two long nines, lay at about six miles in shore,
+ 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 in repairing damages,
+ &c., that by 9 o'clock the boats were stowed, a new set of sails
+ bent, and the ship completely ready for action. At 2 A.M. got
+ under weigh, and stood by the wind to the northward and westward,
+ under easy sail.
+
+ On mustering next morning, found we had 277 souls on board,
+ including the crew of the American brig Hunter, of Portland,
+ taken a few days before by the Peacock. And, 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 determined 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, probably about the tonnage of the
+ Hornet. Her beam was greater by five inches, but her extreme
+ length not so great by four feet. She mounted sixteen twenty-four
+ pound carronades, two long nines, one twelve-pound carronade on
+ her topgallant-forecastle, as a shifting gun, and one four or
+ six-pounder, and two swivels mounted aft. I find, by her
+ quarter-bill, that her crew consisted of 134 men, four of whom
+ were absent in a prize.
+
+ The cool and determined conduct of my officers and crew during
+ the action, and their almost unexampled exertions afterwards,
+ entitled them to my warmest acknowledgments, and I beg leave most
+ earnestly to recommend them to the notice of government.
+
+ By the indisposition of Lieutenant Stewart I was deprived of the
+ services of an excellent officer; had he been able to stand the
+ deck I am confident his exertions would not have been surpassed
+ by any one on board. I should be doing injustice to the merits of
+ Lieutenant Shubrick, and of acting-lieutenants Conner and Newton,
+ were I not to recommend them particularly to your notice.
+ Lieutenant Shubrick was in the actions with the Guerriere and
+ Java. Captain Hull and Commodore Bainbridge can bear testimony to
+ his coolness and good conduct on both occasions.
+
+ With the greatest respect, I remain, &c.,
+ James LAWRENCE.
+
+ P.S. At the commencement of the action my sailing master and
+ seven men were absent in a prize, and Lieutenant Stewart and six
+ men on the sick list.
+
+
+
+No. 34. (p. 189)
+PLATE XXXV.
+
+
+_September 11, 1814._
+
+ Tho. Macdonough. Stagno Champlain clas. Reg. Brit superavit.
+ [Rx]. Uno latere percusso. alterum impavide vertit.
+
+CAPTAIN THOMAS MACDONOUGH.
+
+[_Victory of Lake Champlain._]
+
+THO. MACDONOUGH. STAGNO CHAMPLAIN CLAS. REG. BRIT. SUPERAVIT. (_Thomas
+Macdonough Stagno Champlain classim Regis Britannia superavit: Thomas
+Macdonough defeated the Royal British fleet on Lake Champlain._) Bust
+of Captain Macdonough, in uniform, facing the right. FUeRST. F.
+(_fecit_).
+
+UNO LATERE PERCUSSO. ALTERUM IMPAVIDE VERTIT. (_Beaten on one side, he
+fearlessly turns the other._) Naval action on Lake Champlain, between
+the United States fleet, carrying eighty-six guns, under Captain
+Macdonough, and the British fleet, with ninety-five guns, commanded by
+Commodore Downie. To the right, the city of Plattsburgh in flames.
+Exergue: INTER CLASS. AMERI. ET BRIT. DIE XI SEPT. MDCCCXIIII. (_Inter
+classim Americanam et Britannicam, die 11 Septembris, 1814: Between
+the American and British fleets, September 11, 1814._) On the
+platform, FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+THOMAS MACDONOUGH was born in Newcastle County, Delaware, December 23,
+1783. He entered the navy as a midshipman in 1800; served in the
+Tripolitan campaign, and was with Decatur in the Intrepid, when the
+latter blew up the Philadelphia. He was made a lieutenant in February,
+1807, and a master-commandant in July, 1813. He defeated the British
+squadron, commanded by Commodore George Downie, on Lake Champlain,
+September 11, 1814, for which victory he received the thanks of
+Congress and a gold medal, and was promoted to the rank of (p. 190)
+captain. He commanded the Mediterranean squadron for several years,
+and died at sea, November 18, 1825, of consumption, on his homeward
+voyage to the United States.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to Captains Macdonough and
+Henley, Lieutenant Cassin, etc._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ thanks of Congress be, and the same are hereby, presented to
+ Captain Thomas Macdonough, and through him to the officers, petty
+ officers, seamen, marines, and infantry serving as marines,
+ attached to the squadron under his command, for the decisive and
+ splendid victory gained on Lake Champlain, on the eleventh of
+ September, in the year one thousand eight hundred and fourteen,
+ over a British squadron of superior force.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to cause gold medals to be struck, emblematical of the action
+ between the two squadrons, and to present them to Captain
+ Macdonough and Captain Robert Henley, and also to Lieutenant
+ Stephen Cassin, in such a manner as may be most honourable to
+ them; and that the President be further requested to present a
+ silver medal,[90] with suitable emblems and devices, to each of
+ the commissioned officers of the navy and army serving on board,
+ and a sword to each of the midshipmen and sailing-masters, who so
+ nobly distinguished themselves in that memorable conflict.
+
+ [Footnote 90: The silver medals are copies of the
+ one in gold given to Captain Macdonough.]
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to present a silver medal, with like emblems and devices, to the
+ nearest male relative of Lieutenant Peter Gamble, and of
+ Lieutenant John Stansbury, and to communicate to them the deep
+ regret which Congress feel for the loss of those gallant men,
+ whose names ought to live in the recollection and affection of a
+ grateful country.
+
+ _Resolved_, That three months' pay be allowed, exclusively of the
+ common allowance, to all petty officers, seamen, marines, and
+ infantry serving as marines, who so gloriously supported the
+ honour of the American flag on that memorable day.
+
+ Approved October 20, 1814.
+
+ _____
+
+_Resolution of Congress Complimentary to Lieutenant Silas Duncan._
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States in Congress assembled_: That the provisions of the
+ joint resolutions of Congress passed October twentieth, eighteen
+ hundred and fourteen, entitled "Resolution expressive of the
+ sense of Congress of the gallant conduct of Captain Thomas
+ Macdonough, the officers, seamen and marines, and infantry (p. 191)
+ serving as marines on board of the United States squadron on Lake
+ Champlain," be so construed and extended as to include the names
+ of Silas Duncan, a lieutenant in the Navy of the United States,
+ in testimony of the sense which is entertained by both houses of
+ Congress of the distinguished gallantry and good conduct of the
+ said Lieutenant Duncan, in an action with the enemy's forces on
+ the sixth of September, eighteen hundred and fourteen, on the
+ same lake.
+
+ Approved May 13th, 1826.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Macdonough to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To the Honorable United States Ship Saratoga,
+ William JONES, Off Plattsburgh, September 11th, 1814.
+ Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: The Almighty has been pleased to grant us a signal victory
+ on Lake Champlain, in the capture of one frigate, one brig, and
+ two sloops-of-war of the enemy.
+
+ I have the honor to be, &c.
+ T. MACDONOUGH.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Macdonough to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To the Honorable Ship Saratoga,
+ William JONES, Plattsburgh Bay, September 13th, 1814.
+ Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour 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 Plattsburgh by
+ land and water, and it being well understood 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 approach of the enemy.
+ At 9, he anchored in a line ahead, at about 300 yards distance
+ from my line; his ship was opposed to the Saratoga, his brig to
+ the Eagle, Captain Robert Henley, his gallies, thirteen in
+ number, to the schooner, the sloop, and a division of our
+ gallies, one of his sloops assisting their ship and brig, the
+ other assisting their gallies. Our remaining gallies, with the
+ Saratoga and Eagle.
+
+ In this situation, the whole force on both sides became engaged,
+ the Saratoga suffering much, from the heavy fire of the
+ Confiance. I could perceive at the same time, however, that our
+ fire was very destructive to her. The Ticonderoga, Lieutenant
+ Commandant Cassin, gallantly sustained her full share of the
+ action. At half-past 10 o'clock, the Eagle not being able to
+ bring her guns to bear, cut her cable, and anchored in a more (p. 192)
+ eligible position, between my ship and the Ticonderoga, where
+ she very much annoyed the enemy, but unfortunately, leaving me
+ exposed to a galling fire from the enemy's brig. Our guns on the
+ starboard side being nearly all dismounted, or not manageable, a
+ stern anchor was let go, the bower cut, and the ship winded 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 about 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
+ gallies having struck also. Three of their gallies are said to be
+ sunk, the others pulled off. Our gallies 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 gallies, and order their men to the
+ pumps. I could only look at the enemy's gallies 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
+ shot away, hung down as though it had been just placed over mast
+ heads.
+
+ The Saratoga had 55 round shot in her hull, the Confiance 105.
+ The enemy's shot passed principally just over our heads, as there
+ were not 20 whole hammocks in the nettings after the close of the
+ action, which lasted, without intermission, two hours and twenty
+ minutes.
+
+ The absence and sickness of Lieutenant Raymond Perry left me
+ without the services of that excellent officer; much ought fairly
+ to be attributed to him for his great care and attention in
+ disciplining the ship's crew, as her first lieutenant. His place
+ was filled by a gallant young officer, Lieutenant Peter Gamble,
+ who, I regret to inform you, was killed early in the action.
+ Acting-lieutenant Vallette worked the first and second division
+ of guns with able effect. Sailing-master Brum's attention to the
+ springs, and in the execution of the order to wind the ship, and
+ occasionally at the guns, met my entire approbation; also Captain
+ 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 third
+ division; his conduct during the action was that of a brave
+ officer. Midshipmen Monteath, Graham, Williamson, Platt, Thwing,
+ and Acting-Midshipman Baldwin all behaved well, and gave evidence
+ of their making valuable 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 honour to command.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ T. MACDONOUGH.
+
+
+
+No. 35. (p. 193)
+PLATE XXXVI.
+
+
+_September 11, 1814._
+
+ Rob. Henley Eagle praefect. palma virtu per aeternit. florebit.
+ [Rx]. Uno latere percusso. alterum impavide vertit.
+
+CAPTAIN ROBERT HENLEY.
+
+[_Victory of Lake Champlain._]
+
+ROB. HENLEY EAGLE PRAEFECT. PALMA VIRTU. PER AETERNIT. FLOREBIT.
+(_Robertus Henley, Eagle praefectus; palma virtutis per aeternitatem
+florebit: Robert Henley, commander of the Eagle. The palm of bravery
+will flourish forever._) Bust of Captain Henley, in uniform, facing
+the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+UNO LATERE PERCUSSO. ALTERUM IMPAVIDE VERTIT. (_Beaten on one side, he
+fearlessly turns the other._) Naval action on Lake Champlain, between
+the United States fleet, carrying eighty-six guns, under Captain
+Macdonough, and the British fleet, with ninety-five guns, commanded by
+Commodore Downie. To the right the city of Plattsburgh in flames.
+Exergue: INTER CLASS. AMERI. ET BRIT. DIE XI SEPT. MDCCCXIIII. (_Inter
+classim Americanam et Britannicam, die 11 Septembris, 1814: Between
+the American and British fleets, September 11, 1814._) On the
+platform, FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).[91]
+
+ [Footnote 91: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal, and the official reports of the victory
+ on Lake Champlain, are given under No. 34, page
+ 189.]
+
+
+ROBERT HENLEY was born in James City County, Virginia, January 5, (p. 194)
+1783. He entered the navy as a midshipman in 1799, and was on board of
+the Constellation, under Captain Truxtun, during her combat with La
+Vengeance; he was a lieutenant in 1807; a commander August 12, 1814;
+obtained the Eagle, and was second in command to Macdonough in his
+victory on lake Champlain, September 11, 1814, receiving for his
+conduct on that occasion the thanks of Congress and a gold medal. He
+was appointed captain, March 3, 1825; served in the home squadron and
+in the West Indies, and died on Sullivan's Island, South Carolina,
+October 7, 1828.
+
+
+
+No. 36. (p. 195)
+PLATE XXXVII.
+
+
+_September 11, 1814._
+
+ Step. Cassin Ticonderoga praefect. Quae regio in terris nos. non
+ plena lab. [Rx]. Uno latere percusso. alterum impavide vertit.
+
+LIEUTENANT STEPHEN CASSIN.
+
+[_Victory of Lake Champlain._]
+
+STEP. CASSIN TICONDEROGA PRAEFECT. QUAE REGIO IN TERRIS NOS. NON PLENA
+LAB.[92] (_Stephanus Cassin, Ticonderoga praefectus. Quae regio in
+terris nostri non plena laboris: Stephen Cassin, commander of the
+Ticonderoga. What region of the earth is not full of our works._) Bust
+of Lieutenant Cassin, in uniform, facing the right. FUeRST. F.
+(_fecit_).
+
+ [Footnote 92: Virgil, AEneid, Book I, 464.]
+
+UNO LATERE PERCUSSO. ALTERUM IMPAVIDE VERTIT. (_Beaten on one side, he
+fearlessly turns the other._) Naval action on Lake Champlain, between
+the United States fleet, carrying eighty-six guns, under the command
+of Captain Macdonough, and the British fleet, with ninety-five guns,
+commanded by Commodore Downie. To the right the city of Plattsburgh in
+flames. Exergue: INTER CLASS. AMERI. ET BRIT. DIE XI SEPT. MDCCCXIIII.
+(_Inter classim Americanam et Britannicam, die 11 Septembris, 1814:
+Between the American and British fleets, September 11, 1814._) On the
+platform, FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).[93]
+
+ [Footnote 93: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal, and the official reports of the action
+ on Lake Champlain, are given under No. 34, page
+ 189.]
+
+
+STEPHEN CASSIN was born in Philadelphia, February 16, 1783. He (p. 196)
+entered the navy as a midshipman in 1800, served in the Tripolitan
+campaign, and became a lieutenant in 1807. He commanded the
+Ticonderoga in Macdonough's victory on Lake Champlain, September 11,
+1814, and for his conduct on that occasion was promoted to the rank of
+master, and received a vote of thanks and a gold medal from Congress.
+He was made captain, March 3, 1825, commanded for some time the navy
+yard at Washington, District of Columbia, and died there, April 29,
+1857.
+
+
+
+No. 37. (p. 197)
+PLATE XXXVIII.
+
+
+_March 29, 1814._
+
+ Ludovicus Warrington dux navalis Ameri. [Rx]. Pro patria paratus
+ aut vincere aut mori.
+
+CAPTAIN LEWIS WARRINGTON.
+
+[_Capture of the Epervier._]
+
+LUDOVICUS WARRINGTON DUX NAVALIS AMERI. (_Americanus_) (_Lewis
+Warrington, American naval commander._) Bust of Captain Warrington, in
+uniform, facing the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+PRO PATRIA PARATUS AUT VINCERE AUT MORI. (_Prepared to conquer or die
+for his country._) Naval action between the United States sloop-of-war
+Peacock, of eighteen guns, Captain Warrington, and the British
+brig-of-war Epervier, of eighteen guns, Captain Wales; the Peacock, to
+leeward, is firing her port broadside. The Epervier has lost her
+main-topmast Exergue: INTER PEACOCK NAV. AMERI ET EPERVIE (_sic_) NAV.
+ANG. DIE XXIX MAR. MDCCCXIV. (_Inter Peacock navem Americanam et
+Epervier navem Anglicanam, die 29 Martii, 1814: Between the American
+vessel Peacock and the English vessel Epervier, March 29, 1814._)
+FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+LEWIS WARRINGTON was born in Williamsburgh, Virginia, November 3,
+1782. He entered the navy as a midshipman in 1800, and served under
+Commodore Preble in the Tripolitan campaign; was lieutenant, 1807; and
+master-commandant, 1813. He sailed from New York in March, 1814, (p. 198)
+in command of the sloop-of-war Peacock, and on the 29th of the
+same month took the British brig-of-war Epervier, Captain Wales, for
+which gallant deed he received the thanks of Congress and a gold
+medal. He was promoted to the rank of captain in November of the same
+year, and subsequently served on the Naval Board. In 1842 he became
+chief of the ordnance and hydrographic bureau of the Navy Department,
+in which capacity he died in Washington, October 12, 1851.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captain Warrington, etc._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States be requested to present to Captain
+ Lewis Warrington, of the sloop-of-war Peacock, a gold medal, with
+ suitable emblems and devices, and a silver medal,[94] with like
+ emblems and devices, to each of the commissioned officers, and a
+ sword to each of the midshipmen, and to the sailing-master of
+ said vessel, in testimony of the high sense entertained by
+ Congress of the gallantry and good conduct of the officers and
+ crew, in the action with the British brig Epervier, on the 29th
+ day of April, in the year one thousand eight hundred and
+ fourteen, in which action the decisive effect and great
+ superiority of the American gunnery were so signally displayed.
+
+ [Footnote 94: The silver medals are copies of the
+ one in gold to Captain Warrington.]
+
+ Approved October 21, 1814.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Warrington to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To the Honourable United States sloop Peacock, at sea,
+ William JONES, Latitude 27 deg. 47', longitude 89 deg..
+ Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. April 29th, 1814.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour to inform you that we have this morning
+ captured, after an action of 42 minutes, His Majesty's brig
+ Epervier, Captain Wales, rating and mounting 18 thirty-two pound
+ carronades, with 128 men, of whom 8 were killed and 15 wounded,
+ according to the best information we could obtain. Among the
+ latter is her first lieutenant, who has lost an arm, and received
+ a severe splinter wound in the hip. Not a man in the Peacock (p. 199)
+ 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 circumstance of our fore-yard being totally
+ disabled by two round shots in the starboard quarter from her
+ first broadside, which entirely deprived us of the use of our
+ fore and fore-top sails, 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 shots through our
+ sails, is the only injury the Peacock has sustained. Not a round
+ shot touched our 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, his
+ fore-mast cut nearly in two and tottering, his fore rigging and
+ stays shot away, his bowsprit badly wounded, and forty-five shot
+ holes in his hull, twenty 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 Peacock was ready
+ for another action, in every respect but her fore-yard, which was
+ sent down, finished and had the fore-sail set again in forty-five
+ minutes: such was the spirit and activity of our gallant crew.
+ The Epervier had under her convoy an English hermaphrodite brig,
+ a Russian and a Spanish ship, which all hauled their wind, and
+ stood to the east-northeast. I had 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 her $120,000 in specie, which we soon
+ transferred to this sloop. Every officer, seaman, and marine did
+ his duty, which is the highest compliment I can pay them.
+
+ I am, respectfully,
+ L. WARRINGTON.
+
+
+
+No. 38. (p. 200)
+PLATE XXXIX.
+
+
+_June 28, 1814._
+
+ Johnston Blakeley Reip. Faed. Am. nav. Wasp dux. [Rx]. Eheu! bis
+ victor patria tua te luget plauditq.
+
+CAPTAIN JOHNSTON BLAKELEY.
+
+[_Capture of the Reindeer._]
+
+JOHNSTON BLAKELEY REIP. FAED. AM. NAV. WASP DUX. (_Johnston Blakeley,
+Reipublicae Faederatae Americanae navis Wasp dux: Johnston Blakeley,
+Captain of the American Federal Republic's vessel Wasp._) Bust of
+Captain Blakeley, in uniform, facing the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+EHEU! BIS VICTOR PATRIA TUA TE LUGET PLAUDITQ. (_Plauditque_) (_Alas!
+twice conqueror, thy country laments and applauds thee._) Naval action
+between the United States sloop-of-war Wasp, of eighteen guns, Captain
+Blakeley, and the British sloop-of-war Reindeer, of eighteen guns,
+Captain Manners; the Wasp, to windward, is firing her port broadside.
+The British vessel is striking her colors. Exergue: INTER WASP NAV.
+AMERI. ET REINDEER NAV. ANG. DIE XXVIII JUNIUS (_sic_) MDCCCXIV.
+(_Inter Wasp navem Americanam et Reindeer navem Anglicanam, die 28
+Junius, 1814: Between the American vessel Wasp and the English vessel
+Reindeer, June 28, 1814._) On the platform, FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+JOHNSTON BLAKELEY was born at Seaford, County Down, Ireland, (p. 201)
+October, 1781. He was brought, when very young, to North Carolina,
+where his parents settled, and where they died while he was still a
+child. He entered the navy as a midshipman, February 5, 1800, and
+served under Commodore Preble in the Tripolitan campaign. In 1813,
+when a lieutenant, he commanded the Enterprize, and in the same year
+became master-commandant of the sloop-of-war Wasp, with which, on June
+28, 1814, he took the British sloop-of-war Reindeer, Commander William
+Manners. For this memorable action Congress gave him a vote of thanks
+and a gold medal. He afterward cruised off the coast of France, and
+was lost at sea in the Wasp, of which no news has ever been received.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captain Blakeley, etc._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States be requested to present to Captain
+ Johnston Blakeley, of the sloop Wasp, a gold medal, with suitable
+ devices, and a silver medal,[95] with like devices, to each of
+ the commissioned officers, and also a sword to each of the
+ midshipmen, and the sailing-master of the aforesaid vessel, in
+ testimony of the high sense entertained by Congress of the
+ gallantry and good conduct of the officers and crew, in the
+ action with the British sloop-of-war Reindeer, on the
+ twenty-eighth of June, in the year one thousand eight hundred and
+ fourteen; in which action determined bravery and cool
+ intrepidity, in nineteen minutes, obtained a decisive victory by
+ boarding.
+
+ [Footnote 95: The silver medals are copies of the
+ medal in gold to Captain Blakeley.]
+
+ Approved November 3, 1814.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Blakeley to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To the Honourable United States Ship Wasp,
+ William JONES L'Orient, July 8th, 1814.
+ Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: On Tuesday, the 28th instant, being then in latitude 48 deg.
+ 36', north, and longitude 11 deg. 15' west, we fell in with, engaged,
+ and after an action of nineteen minutes, captured His (p. 202)
+ Britannic Majesty's sloop-of-war the Reindeer, William Manners,
+ Esquire, commander.
+
+ 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 Lieutenants Reily
+ and Bury, 1st and 3d of this vessel, and whose names will be
+ found among those of the conquerors of the Guerriere and Java;
+ and of Mr. Tillinghast, 2d lieutenant, who was greatly
+ instrumental in the capture of the Boxer; that their conduct and
+ courage on this occasion fulfilled my highest expectations and
+ gratified every wish. Sailing-master Carr is also entitled to
+ great 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 gun of the enemy, and without
+ an opportunity of returning it, could only be equalled by the
+ animation and ardour exhibited when actually engaged, or by the
+ promptitude and firmness with which every attempt of the enemy to
+ board was met and successfully repelled. Such conduct may be
+ seen, but cannot well be described.
+
+ The Reindeer mounted sixteen 24 pound carronades, two long 6 or 9
+ pounders, and a shifting 12 pound carronade, 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 the sea, but
+ chiefly in repelling boarders. That of the enemy, however, was
+ infinitely more so, as will be seen by the list of killed and
+ wounded on both sides.
+
+ Six round shot struck our hull, and many grape which did not
+ penetrate far. The fore-mast received a 24 pound 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 upper 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, together with their baggage, the
+ Reindeer was on the evening of the 29th, set on fire, and in a
+ few hours blew up.
+
+ I have the honour to be, etc.,
+ J. BLAKELEY.
+
+ _Killed and Wounded._ The loss on board the Reindeer was 25
+ killed and 42 wounded, total 67. On board the Wasp, 5 killed and
+ 21 wounded, principally in boarding; among the latter, midshipmen
+ Langdon and Toscan, both of whom expired some days after the
+ action.
+
+
+
+No. 39. (p. 203)
+PLATE XL.
+
+
+_July 5 and 25, and September 17, 1814._
+
+ Major General Jacob Brown. [Rx]. Resolution of Congress November
+ 3. 1814.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL JACOB BROWN.
+
+[_Victories of Chippewa, Niagara, and Erie._]
+
+MAJOR GENERAL JACOB BROWN. Bust of General Brown, in uniform, facing
+the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS NOVEMBER 3. 1814. In the center of a trophy,
+composed of the enemy's arms and flags, are the Roman fasces, emblem
+of the strength and of the union of America. The fasces are surrounded
+by a crown of laurel, from which hang three cartoons, each bearing the
+name of one of the three victories: "NIAGARA" "ERIE" "CHIPPEWA". At
+the foot of the trophy the American eagle, with outspread wings, holds
+in its talons a British standard. Exergue: BATTLES OF CHIPPEWA. JULY
+5. 1814. NIAGARA. JULY 25. 1814. ERIE. SEP. (_September_) 17. 1814.
+FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+JACOB BROWN was born in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, May 9, 1775. He
+began life as a school teacher, and afterward became a land surveyor
+in Ohio. He removed to Jefferson County, New York, in 1799; was made a
+colonel of New York militia, 1809; a brigadier-general of the same,
+1810; and distinguished himself by his defence of Sackett's Harbor,
+May 29, 1813. He was appointed a brigadier-general in the United (p. 204)
+States army, July 19, 1813; major-general, January 24, 1814; and, in
+the same year, commander-in-chief on the Canada frontier. In this
+capacity he won the battles of Chippewa, July 5; Niagara, July 25; and
+Erie, September 17. For these victories Congress gave him a vote of
+thanks and a gold medal. He became commander-in-chief of the army in
+1821, and died at head-quarters in Washington, February 24, 1828.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to Generals Brown, Scott,
+Porter, Gaines, Macomb, Ripley, and Miller._
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the thanks
+ of Congress be, and they are hereby, presented to Major General
+ Brown, and through him, to the officers and men of the regular
+ army, and of the militia under his command, for their gallantry
+ and good conduct in the successive battles of Chippewa, Niagara,
+ and Erie, in Upper Canada, in which British veteran troops were
+ beaten and repulsed by equal or inferior numbers; and that the
+ President of the United States be requested to cause a gold medal
+ to be struck, emblematical of these triumphs, and presented to
+ Major-General Brown.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to cause a gold medal to be struck, with suitable emblems and
+ devices, and presented to Major-General Scott, in testimony of
+ the high sense entertained by Congress of his distinguished
+ services in the successive conflicts of Chippewa and Niagara, and
+ of his uniform gallantry and good conduct in sustaining the
+ reputation of the arms of the United States.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to cause gold medals to be struck, with suitable emblems and
+ devices, and presented to Brigadier-General Ripley,
+ Brigadier-General Miller, and Major-General Porter, in testimony
+ of the high sense entertained by Congress of their gallantry and
+ good conduct in the several conflicts of Chippewa, Niagara, and
+ Erie.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the thanks of Congress be, and they are hereby,
+ presented to Major-General Gaines, and through him to the
+ officers and men under his command, for their gallantry and good
+ conduct in defeating the enemy at Erie on the fifteenth of (p. 205)
+ August, repelling with great slaughter the attack of a British
+ veteran army, superior in numbers; and that the President of the
+ United States be requested to cause a gold medal to be struck,
+ emblematical of this triumph, and presented to Major-General
+ Gaines.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the thanks of Congress be, and they are hereby,
+ presented to Major-General Macomb, and through him to the
+ officers and men of the regular army under his command, and to
+ the militia and volunteers of New York and Vermont, for their
+ gallantry and good conduct, in defeating the enemy at Plattsburgh
+ on the eleventh of September, repelling with one thousand five
+ hundred men, aided by a body of militia and volunteers from New
+ York and Vermont, a British veteran army, greatly superior in
+ number; and that the President of the United States be requested
+ to cause a gold medal to be struck, emblematical of this triumph,
+ and presented to Major-General Macomb.
+
+ Approved November 3, 1814.
+
+ _____
+
+_Major-General Brown to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honourable Head Quarters, Chippewa Plains,
+ John ARMSTRONG, July 7th, 1814.
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: On the 2d instant I issued my order for crossing the Niagara
+ river, and made the arrangements deemed necessary for securing
+ the garrison of Fort Erie. On the 3d that post surrendered at 5
+ P.M. Our loss in this affair was four of the 25th regiment,
+ under Major Jessup, of Brigadier-General Scott's brigade,
+ wounded. I have enclosed a return of the prisoners, of the
+ ordnance and ordnance stores captured.
+
+ To secure my rear, I have placed a garrison in this fort, and
+ requested Captain Kennedy to station his vessels near the post.
+
+ On the morning of the 4th, Brigadier-General Scott, with his
+ brigade and a corps of artillery, was ordered to advance toward
+ Chippewa, and be governed by circumstances; taking care to secure
+ a good military position for the night. After some skirmishing
+ with the enemy, he selected this plain with the eye of a soldier,
+ his right resting on the river, and a ravine being in front. At
+ 11 at night I joined him with the reserve, under General Ripley,
+ our field and battering train, and corps of artillery under Major
+ Hindman. General Porter arrived the next morning with a part of
+ the New York and Pennsylvania volunteers, and some of the
+ warriors of the Six Nations.
+
+ Early in the morning of the 5th, the enemy commenced a petty war
+ upon our pickets, and, as he was indulged, his presumption
+ increased; by noon he showed himself on the left of our extensive
+ line, and attacked one of our pickets as it was returning to
+ camp. Captain Treat, who commanded it, retired disgracefully,
+ leaving a wounded man on the ground. Captain Biddle, of the
+ artillery, who was near the scene, impelled by feelings highly
+ honourable to him as a soldier and officer, promptly assumed the
+ command of this picket, led it back to the wounded man and
+ brought him off the field. I ordered Captain Treat, on the post,
+ to retire from the army, as I am anxious that no officer (p. 206)
+ shall remain under my command who can be suspected of cowardice.
+ I advise that Captain Treat[96] be struck from the rolls of the
+ army.
+
+ At 4 o'clock in the afternoon, agreeably to a plan I had given
+ General Porter, he advanced from the rear of our camp, with the
+ volunteers and Indians (taking the woods in order to keep out of
+ view of the enemy), with the hope of bringing his pickets and
+ scouting parties between his (Porter's) line of march, and our
+ camp. As Porter moved, I ordered the parties advanced in front of
+ our camp to fall back gradually, under the enemy's fire, in order
+ to draw him, if possible, up to our line. About half past 4, the
+ advance of General Porter's command met the light parties of the
+ enemy in the woods, upon our extreme left. The enemy were driven,
+ and Porter advancing near to Chippewa, met their whole column in
+ order of battle. From the cloud of dust rising, and the heavy
+ firing, I was led to conclude that the entire force of the enemy
+ was in march, and prepared for action. I immediately ordered
+ General Scott to advance with his brigade, and Towson's
+ artillery, and meet them upon the plain in front of our camp. The
+ general did not expect to be gratified with a field engagement.
+ He advanced in the most prompt and officer-like style, and in a
+ few minutes was in close action upon the plain, with a superior
+ force of British regular troops. By this time General Porter's
+ command had given way, and fled in every direction,
+ notwithstanding his personal gallantry, and great exertions to
+ stay their flight. The retreat of the volunteers and Indians
+ caused the left flank of General Scott's brigade to be greatly
+ exposed. Captain Harris, with his dragoons, was directed to stop
+ the fugitives, behind the ravine fronting our camp; and I sent
+ Colonel Gardner to order General Ripley to advance with the 21st
+ regiment which formed part of the reserve, pass to the left of
+ our camp, skirt the woods so as to keep out of view, and fall
+ upon the rear of the enemy's right flank. This order was promptly
+ obeyed, and the greatest exertions were made by the 21st regiment
+ to gain their position, and close with the enemy, but in vain;
+ for such was the zeal and gallantry of the line commanded by
+ General Scott, that its advance upon the enemy was not to be
+ checked. Major Jessup, commanding the left flank battalion,
+ finding himself pressed in front and in flank, and his men
+ falling fast around him, ordered his battalion to "support arms
+ and advance;" the order was promptly obeyed, amidst the most
+ deadly and destructive fire. He gained a more secure position,
+ and returned upon the enemy so galling a discharge, as caused
+ them to retire. By this time, their whole line was falling back,
+ and our gallant soldiers pressing upon them as fast as possible.
+ As soon as the enemy had gained the sloping ground, descending
+ towards Chippewa, and distant a quarter of a mile, he broke and
+ ran to gain his works. In this effort he was too successful, and
+ the guns from his batteries opening immediately upon our line,
+ checked in some degree the pursuit. At this moment I resolved to
+ bring up all my ordnance and force the place by a direct attack,
+ and gave the order accordingly. Major Wood, of the corps of
+ engineers, and my aid, Captain Austin, rode to the bank of the
+ creek towards the right of their line of works, and examined
+ them. I was induced by their report, the lateness of the hour,
+ and the advice of General Scott and Major Wood, to order the
+ forces to retire to camp.
+
+ My most difficult duty remains to be performed; I am (p. 207)
+ depressed with the fear of not being able to do justice to my
+ brave companions in arms, and apprehensive, that some who had an
+ opportunity of distinguishing themselves, and promptly embraced
+ it, will escape my notice.
+
+ Brigadier-General Scott is entitled to the highest praise our
+ country can bestow: to him, more than any other man, I am
+ indebted for the victory of the 5th of July. His brigade has
+ covered itself with glory. Every officer and every man of the 9th
+ and 22d, 11th and 15th regiments _did his duty_ with a zeal and
+ energy worthy of the American character. When every officer
+ stands so pre-eminently high in the path of his duty and honour,
+ it is impossible to discriminate, but I cannot deprive myself of
+ the pleasure of saying, that Major Leavenworth commanded the 9th
+ and 22d, Major Jessup the 25th, and Major McNeil the 11th.
+ Colonel Campbell was wounded early in the action, gallantly
+ leading on his regiment.
+
+ The family of General Scott were conspicuous in the field;
+ Lieutenant Smith of the 6th infantry, major of brigade, and
+ Lieutenants Worth and Watts his aids.
+
+ From General Ripley and his brigade, I received every assistance
+ that I gave them an opportunity of rendering. I did not order any
+ part of the reserve into action until General Porter's command
+ had given way, and then General Scott's movements were so rapid
+ and decisive, that General Ripley could not get up in time with
+ the 21st, to the position as directed. The corps of artillery
+ under Major Hindman were not generally in action; this was not
+ their fault. Captain Towson's company was the only one that had a
+ full opportunity of distinguishing itself, and it is believed
+ that no company ever embraced an opportunity with more zeal or
+ more success.
+
+ A detachment from the 2d brigade under the command of
+ Lieutenant-Colonel McDonald, penetrated the woods with the
+ Indians and volunteers, and for their support. The conduct of
+ McDonald and his command reflects high honour on the brigade to
+ which they belong.
+
+ The conduct of General Porter has been conspicuously gallant.
+ Every assistance in his power to afford, with the description of
+ force under his command, has been rendered. We could not expect
+ him to contend with the British column of regulars which appeared
+ upon the plains of Chippewa. It was no cause of surprise to me to
+ see his command retire before this column.
+
+ Justice forbids that I should omit to name my own family. They
+ yield to none in honourable zeal, intelligence, and attention to
+ duty. Colonel Gardner, Major Jones, and my aids, Captains Austin
+ and Spencer, have been as active and as much devoted to the cause
+ as any officers of the army. Their conduct merits my warmest
+ acknowledgments; of Gardner and Jones I shall have occasion again
+ to speak to you.
+
+ Major Camp, deputy-quarter-master-general, deserves my particular
+ notice and approbation. By his great exertions, I was enabled to
+ find the means of crossing. Captain Daliba, of the ordnance
+ department, has rendered every service in his power.
+
+ The inclosed return will show you our loss, and furnish you with
+ the names of the dead and wounded officers. These gallant men
+ must not be forgotten. Our country will remember them, and do
+ them justice.
+
+ With great respect, &c.,
+ Jacob BROWN.
+
+ [Footnote 96: Captain Treat was tried by a
+ court-martial and honorably acquitted.]
+
+ _____
+
+_General Orders._ (p. 208)
+
+ Adjutant-General's Office, left Division,
+ Chippewa Plains, July 6th, 1814.
+
+ Major-General Brown has the gratification to say, that the
+ soldiers of the 2d division, west of the Niagara, merit greater
+ applause than he is able to bestow in general orders; they merit
+ the highest approbation of the country. The conduct of
+ Brigadier-General Scott's brigade, which had the opportunity to
+ engage the whole force of the enemy, the greater part, it is
+ believed, of all in the peninsula, removes on the day of this
+ battle the reflection on our country, that its reputation in arms
+ is yet to be established. His brigade consists of battalions of
+ the 9th, the 11th, the 25th and a detachment of the 22d. Towson's
+ company of artillery, which was attached to it, gallantly
+ commenced, and with it sustained the action.
+
+ The volunteers and Indians performed their part; they drove the
+ enemy's Indians and light troops until they met the British army:
+ they meet the general's approbation.
+
+ Of the reports of killed and wounded, the names of the wounded
+ officers will be mentioned, in order that they may be rewarded
+ with that honourable mention which is due.
+
+ By order of Major-General Brown.
+ C. K. GARDNER, _Adj't Gen_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Brown to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honourable
+ John ARMSTRONG, Buffalo, August, 1814.
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: Confined as I was, and have been, since the last engagement
+ with the enemy, I fear that the account I am about to give may be
+ less full and satisfactory than under other circumstances it
+ might have been made. I particularly fear that the conduct of the
+ gallant men it was my good fortune to lead, will not be noticed
+ in a way due to their fame and the honour of our country.
+
+ You are already apprized that the army had, on the 25th ultimo,
+ taken a position at Chippewa. About noon of that day, Colonel
+ Swift, who was posted at Lewistown advised me by express that the
+ enemy appeared in considerable force in Queenstown, and on its
+ heights; that four of the enemy's fleet had arrived during the
+ preceding night, and were then lying near Fort Niagara, and that
+ a number of boats were in view moving up the strait. Within a few
+ minutes after this intelligence had been received, I was further
+ informed by Captain Denmons, of the quarter-master's department,
+ that the enemy was landing at Lewistown, and that our baggage and
+ stores at Schlosser, and on their way thither, were in danger of
+ immediate capture. It is proper here to mention, that having
+ received advices as late as the 20th from General James, that our
+ fleet was then in port, and the commodore sick, we ceased to look
+ for co-operation from that quarter, and determined to disencumber
+ ourselves of baggage, and march directly for Burlington (p. 209)
+ Heights. To mask this intention, and to draw from Schlosser a
+ small supply of provisions, I fell back upon Chippewa.
+
+ As this arrangement, under the increased force of the enemy, left
+ much at hazard on our side of the Niagara, and as it appeared by
+ the before stated information, that the enemy was about to avail
+ himself of it, I conceived that the most effectual method of
+ recalling him from this object was to put myself in motion
+ towards Queenstown. General Scott, with his first brigade,
+ Towson's artillery, and all the dragoons and mounted men were
+ accordingly put in march on the road leading thither, with orders
+ to report, if the enemy appeared, and to call for assistance, if
+ that was necessary. On the general's arrival at the falls, he
+ learned that the enemy was in force directly in his front, a
+ narrow piece of woods alone intercepting his view of them.
+ Waiting only to give this information, he advanced upon them. By
+ this time Assistant Adjutant General Jones had delivered his
+ message, the action began, and before the remaining part of the
+ division had crossed the Chippewa, it had become close and
+ general between the advanced corps. Though General Ripley with
+ his second brigade, Major Hindman with the corps of artillery,
+ and General Porter at the head of his command, had respectively
+ pressed forward with ardour, it was not less than an hour before
+ they were brought to sustain General Scott, during which time his
+ command most skilfully and gallantly maintained the conflict.
+ Upon my arrival, I found that the general had passed the wood,
+ and engaged the enemy on the Queenstown road, and on the ground
+ to the left of it, with the 9th, 11th and 22d regiments, and
+ Towson's artillery. The 25th had been thrown to the right, to be
+ governed by circumstances.
+
+ Apprehending that these corps were much exhausted, and knowing
+ that they had suffered severely, I determined to interpose a new
+ line with the advancing troops; and thus disengage General Scott,
+ and hold his brigade in reserve. Orders were accordingly given to
+ General Ripley. The enemy's artillery at this moment occupied a
+ hill which gave great advantage, and was the key of the whole
+ position. It was supported by a line of infantry. To secure
+ victory, it was necessary to carry this artillery and seize the
+ height. This duty was assigned to Colonel Miller, while, to
+ favour its execution, the 1st regiment, under the command of
+ Colonel Nicholas, was directed to manoeuvre and amuse the
+ infantry. To my great mortification, this regiment, after a
+ discharge or two, gave way and retreated some distance, before it
+ could be rallied, though it is believed the officers of the
+ regiment exerted themselves to shorten this distance. In the mean
+ time, Colonel Miller, without regard to this occurrence, advanced
+ steadily and gallantly to his object, and carried the height and
+ the cannon. General Ripley brought up the 23d regiment, (which
+ had also faltered,) to his support, and the enemy disappeared
+ from before them. The 1st regiment was now brought into line on
+ the left of the 21st, and the detachment of the 17th and 19th,
+ General Porter occupying with his command the extreme left. About
+ this time, Colonel Miller carried the enemy's cannon. The 25th
+ regiment, under Major Jessup was engaged in a more obstinate
+ conflict with all that remained to dispute with us the field of
+ battle. The major, as has been already stated, had been ordered
+ by General Scott, at the commencement of the action, to take
+ ground to his right. He had succeeded in turning the enemy's
+ flank; had captured (by a detachment under Captain Ketchum), (p. 210)
+ General Riall and sundry other officers, and showed himself again
+ to his own army, in a blaze of fire, which defeated or destroyed
+ a very superior force of the enemy. He was ordered to form on the
+ right of the 2d regiment. The enemy rallying his forces, and as
+ is believed, having received reinforcements, now attempted to
+ drive us from our position and regain his artillery. Our line was
+ unshaken and the enemy repulsed. Two other attempts having the
+ same object, had the same issue. General Scott was again engaged
+ in repelling the former of these, and the last I saw of him in
+ the field of battle, he was near the head of his column, and
+ giving to its march a direction that would place him on the
+ enemy's right. It was with great pleasure I saw the good order
+ and intrepidity of General Porter's volunteers from the moment of
+ their arrival; but during the last charge of the enemy those
+ qualities were conspicuous. Stimulated by the examples set them
+ by their gallant leader, by Major Wood of the Pennsylvania corps,
+ by Colonel Dobbin of New York, and by their officers generally,
+ they precipitated themselves upon the enemy's line, and made all
+ the prisoners which were taken at this point of the action.
+
+ Having been for some time wounded, and being a good deal
+ exhausted by the loss of blood, it became my wish to devolve the
+ command on General Scott, and retire from the field; but on
+ enquiry, I had the misfortune to learn, that he was disabled by
+ wounds; I therefore kept my post, and had the satisfaction to see
+ the enemy's last effort repulsed. I now consigned the command to
+ General Ripley.
+
+ While retiring from the field, I saw and felt, that the victory
+ was complete on our part, if proper measures were promptly
+ adopted to secure it. The exhaustion of the men was, however,
+ such as made some refreshment necessary. They particularly
+ required water. I was myself extremely sensible of the want of
+ this necessary article. I therefore believed it proper, that
+ General Ripley and the troops should return to camp, after
+ bringing off the dead, the wounded, and artillery; and in this I
+ saw no difficulty, as the enemy had entirely ceased to act.
+ Within an hour after my arrival in camp, I was informed that
+ General Ripley had returned without annoyance, and in good order.
+ I now sent for him, and after giving him my reasons for the
+ measure I was about to adopt, ordered him to put the troops in
+ the best possible condition; to give to them the necessary
+ refreshment; to take the pickets and camp-guards, and every other
+ description of force; to put himself on the field of battle as
+ the day dawned, and there to meet and beat the enemy if he again
+ appeared. To this order he made no objection, and I relied upon
+ its execution. It was not executed. I feel most sensibly how
+ inadequate are my powers in speaking of the troops, to do justice
+ to their merits, or to my own sense of them. Under abler
+ direction, they might have done more and better.
+
+ From the preceding details, you have new evidence of the
+ distinguished gallantry of Generals Scott and Porter, of Colonel
+ Miller and Major Jessup, of the 1st brigade. The chief, with his
+ aid-de-camp Worth, his major of brigade Smith, and every
+ commander of battalion, were wounded. The 2d brigade suffered
+ less; but as a brigade, their conduct entitled them to the
+ applause of their country. After the enemy's strong position had
+ been carried by the 21st and the detachments of the 17th and
+ 19th, the 1st and 23d assumed a new character. They could not
+ again be shaken or dismayed. Major McFarland, of the latter, fell
+ nobly at the head of his battalion.
+
+ Under the command of General Porter, the militia volunteers (p. 211)
+ of Pennsylvania and New York stood undismayed amidst the hottest
+ fire, and repulsed the veterans opposed to them. The Canadian
+ volunteers, commanded by Colonel Wilson, are reported by General
+ Porter as having merited and received his approbation.
+
+ The corps of artillery commanded by Major Hindman, behaved with
+ its usual gallantry. Towson's company attached to the 1st
+ brigade, was the first and the last engaged, and during the whole
+ conflict maintained that high character which they had previously
+ won by their skill and their valour. Captains Biddle and Ritchie
+ were both wounded early in the action, but refused to quit the
+ field. The latter declared that he would never leave his piece;
+ and true to his engagement, fell by its side covered with wounds.
+
+ The staff of the army had its peculiar merit and distinction.
+ Colonel Gardner, adjutant-general, though ill, was on horseback,
+ and did all in his power; his assistant, Major Jones, was very
+ active and useful. My gallant aids-de-camp, Austin and Spencer,
+ had many and critical duties to perform, in discharge of which
+ the latter fell; I shall ever think of this young man with pride
+ and regret; regret that his career has been so short; pride that
+ it has been so noble and distinguished. The engineers, Majors
+ McRee and Wood, were greatly distinguished on this day, and their
+ high military talents exerted with great effect; they were much
+ under my eye and near my person, and to their assistance a great
+ deal is fairly to be ascribed. I most earnestly recommend them as
+ worthy of the highest trust and confidence. The staff of Generals
+ Ripley and Porter, discovered great zeal and attention to duty.
+ Lieutenant E. B. Randolph, of the 20th regiment, is entitled to
+ notice; his courage was conspicuous.
+
+ I enclose a return of our loss: those noted missing may generally
+ be numbered with the dead. The enemy had but little opportunity
+ of making prisoners.
+
+ I have the honour to be, etc.,
+ Jacob BROWN.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Brown to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honourable Headquarters, Camp Fort Erie,
+ John ARMSTRONG, September 29th, 1814.
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: In my letter of the 18th instant I briefly informed you of
+ the fortunate issue of the sortie which took place the day
+ preceding. But it is due to the gallant officers and men, to
+ whose bravery we are indebted for our success on this occasion,
+ that I should give you a more circumstantial and detailed account
+ of this affair.
+
+ The enemy's camp I had ascertained to be situated in a field,
+ surrounded by woods, nearly two miles distant from their
+ batteries and entrenchments, the object of which was to keep the
+ parts of their force which was not upon duty, out of the range of
+ our fire from Fort Erie and Black Rock. Their infantry was formed
+ into three brigades, estimated at 1,200 or 1,500 men each. One of
+ these brigades, with a detail from their artillery, was (p. 212)
+ stationed at their works, (these being but 500 yards distant from
+ old Fort Erie, and the right of our line). We had already
+ suffered much from the fire of two of their batteries, and were
+ aware that a third was about to open upon us. Under these
+ circumstances, I resolved to storm the batteries, destroy the
+ cannon, and roughly handle the brigade upon duty, before those in
+ reserve could be brought into action.
+
+ On the morning of the 17th, the infantry and riflemen, regulars
+ and militia, were ordered to be paraded, and put in readiness to
+ march precisely at 12 o'clock. General Porter with the
+ volunteers, Colonel Gibson with the riflemen, and Major Brooke
+ with the 23rd and 21st infantry, and a few dragoons acting as
+ infantry, were ordered to move from the extreme left of our
+ position, upon the enemy's right, by a passage opened through the
+ woods for the occasion. General Miller was directed to station
+ his command in the ravine, which lies between Fort Erie and the
+ enemy's batteries, by passing them by detachments through the
+ skirts of the wood, and the 21st infantry, under General Ripley,
+ was posted as a corps of reserve between the new bastions of Fort
+ Erie; all under cover and out of the view of the enemy.
+
+ About 20 minutes before 3 P.M. I found the left columns, under
+ the command of General Porter, which were destined to turn the
+ enemy's right, within a few rods of the British entrenchments.
+ They were ordered to advance and commence the action. Passing
+ down the ravine, I judged from the report of musketry, that the
+ action had commenced on our left; I now hastened to General
+ Miller and directed him to seize the moment and pierce the
+ enemy's entrenchments between batteries No. 2 and 3. My orders
+ were promptly and ably executed. Within 30 minutes after the
+ first gun was fired, batteries No. 3 and 2, the enemy's line of
+ entrenchments, and his two block houses, were in our possession.
+ Soon after, battery No. 1 was abandoned by the British. The guns
+ in each were spiked by us, or otherwise destroyed, and the
+ magazine of No. 3 was blown up.
+
+ A few minutes before the explosion, I had ordered up the reserve
+ under General Ripley. As he passed me at the head of his column,
+ I desired him, as he would be the senior in advance, to
+ ascertain, as near as possible, the situation of the troops in
+ general, and to have a care that not more was hazarded than the
+ occasion required; that, the object of the sortie effected, the
+ troops would retire in good order, &c. General Ripley passed
+ rapidly on; soon after, I became alarmed for General Miller, and
+ sent an order for the 21st to hasten to his support towards
+ battery No. 1. Colonel Upham received the order, and advanced to
+ the aid of General Miller. General Ripley had inclined to the
+ left, where Major Brooke's command was engaged, with a view of
+ making some necessary enquiries of that officer, and in the act
+ of doing so, was unfortunately wounded. By this time, the object
+ of the sortie was accomplished beyond my most sanguine
+ expectations. General Miller had consequently ordered the troops
+ on the right to fall back; observing this movement, I sent my
+ staff along the line to call in the other corps. Within a few
+ minutes they retired from the ravine, and from thence to camp.
+
+ Thus, one thousand regulars, and an equal portion of militia, in
+ one hour of close action, blasted the hopes of the enemy,
+ destroyed the fruits of fifty days labour, and diminished his
+ effective force 1,000 men at least. I am at a loss how to express
+ my satisfaction at the gallant conduct of the officers and (p. 213)
+ men of this division, whose valour has shown superior to
+ every trial. General Porter, in his official report herein
+ enclosed, has very properly noticed those patriotic citizens who
+ have done so much honour to themselves, by freely and voluntarily
+ tendering their services at a dangerous and critical period.
+
+ As the scene of action was in a wood, in advance of the position
+ I had chosen for directing the movements of the whole, the
+ several reports of commandants of corps, must guide me in
+ noticing individuals.
+
+ General Miller mentions Lieutenant-Colonel Aspinwall,
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Beedle, Major Trimble, Captain Hull, Captain
+ Ingersoll, Lieutenant Crawford, Lieutenant Lee, and particularly
+ Ensign O'Fling, as entitled to distinction.
+
+ Lieutenant-Colonel McDonald, upon whom the command of the rifle
+ corps devolved, upon the fall of the brave and generous Gibson,
+ names Adjutant Shortridge, of the 1st, and Ballard of the 4th
+ regiments, as deserving the highest applause for their promptness
+ and gallantry in communicating orders. Of the other officers of
+ the corps, he reports generally, that the bravery and good
+ conduct of all was so conspicuous as to render it impossible to
+ discriminate.
+
+ Major Brooke, to whom much credit is due for the distinguished
+ manner in which he executed the orders he received, speaks in
+ high terms of Lieutenants Goodell, Ingersoll, Livingston, and
+ ensigns Brant and O'Fling, of the 23d, particularly of the
+ latter. Also of Captain Simms, Lieutenants Bissel, Shore, and
+ Brinot, of the 1st infantry, and Lieutenant Watts, of the
+ dragoons.
+
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Upham, who took the command of the reserve
+ after General Ripley was disabled, bestows great praise upon
+ Major Chambers, of the 4th regiment of riflemen, attached to the
+ 21st infantry, as also upon Captain Bradford and Lieutenant
+ Holding of that regiment.
+
+ My staff, Colonel Snelling, Colonel Gardner, Major Jones, and my
+ aids-de-camp, Major Austin and Lieutenant Armstrong, were, as
+ usual, zealous, intelligent, and active; they performed every
+ duty required of them to my entire satisfaction.
+
+ Major Hall, assistant inspector general, led a battalion of
+ militia, and conducted with skill and gallantry. Lieutenant
+ Kirby, aid-de-camp to General Ripley, was extremely active and
+ useful during the time he was in action.
+
+ Lieutenants Frazer and Riddle were in General Porter's staff;
+ their bravery was conspicuous, and no officers of their grade
+ were more useful.
+
+ The corps of artillery, commanded by Major Hindman, which has
+ been so eminently distinguished throughout this campaign, had no
+ opportunity of taking a part in the sortie. The 25th infantry,
+ under Colonel Jessup, was stationed in Fort Erie to hold the key
+ of our position.
+
+ Colonel Brady, on whose firmness and good conduct every reliance
+ could be placed, was in command at Buffalo with the remains of
+ the 22d infantry. Lieutenant-Colonel McRee and Lieutenant-Colonel
+ Wood, of the corps of engineers, having rendered to this army
+ services the most important, I must seize the opportunity of
+ again mentioning them particularly. On every trying occasion, I
+ have reaped much benefit from their sound and excellent advice.
+ No two officers of their grade could have contributed more to the
+ safety and honour of this army. Wood, brave, generous and (p. 214)
+ enterprising, died as he had lived, without a feeling but for the
+ honour of his country and glory of her arms. His _name_ and
+ _example_ will live to guide the soldiers in the path of duty so
+ long as true heroism is held in estimation. McRee lives to enjoy
+ the approbation of every virtuous and generous mind, and to
+ receive the reward due to his services and high military talents.
+
+ It is proper here to notice, that although but one-third of the
+ enemy's force was on duty when his works were carried, the whole
+ were brought into action while we were employed in destroying his
+ cannon. We secured prisoners from seven of his regiments, and
+ know that the 6th and 87th suffered severely in killed and
+ wounded, yet these regiments were not upon duty.
+
+ Lieutenant-General Drummond broke up his camp during the night of
+ the 21st, and retired to his entrenchments behind the Chippewa. A
+ part of our men came up with the rear of his army at Frenchman's
+ creek; the enemy destroyed part of their stores by setting fire
+ to the building from which they were employed in conveying them.
+ We found in and about the camp a considerable quantity of cannon
+ ball, and upwards of one hundred stand of arms.
+
+ I send you enclosed herein a return of our loss. The return of
+ prisoners enclosed does not include the stragglers that came in
+ after the action.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Jacob BROWN.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Brown to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honourable Head Quarters, Fort Camp Erie,
+ John ARMSTRONG, October 1st, 1814.
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: Looking over my official account of the action of the 17th
+ ultimo, I find that the names of the regiments which composed
+ General Miller's command have not been given. As I believe it
+ even more important to distinguish corps than individuals, I am
+ anxious to correct this mistake. General Miller on that day
+ commanded the remains of the 9th and 11th infantry, and a
+ detachment of the 19th. Of three field officers who were attached
+ to them, two were severely wounded, Lieutenant-Colonel Aspinwall,
+ of the 9th, gallantly leading his men to the attack upon the
+ enemy's entrenchments; and Major Trimble, of the 19th, who was
+ shot within their works, conducting with great skill and bravery.
+ A detachment of the 17th regiment was attached to the 21st.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Jacob BROWN.
+
+
+
+No. 40. (p. 215)
+PLATE XLI.
+
+
+_July 5 and 25, and September 17, 1814._
+
+ Major General Peter B. Porter. [Rx]. Resolution of Congress
+ November 3. 1814.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL PETER BUEL PORTER.
+
+[_Victories of Chippewa, Niagara, and Erie._]
+
+MAJOR GENERAL PETER B. (_Buel_) PORTER. Bust of General Porter, in
+uniform, facing the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS NOVEMBER 3. 1814. A winged Victory, holding in
+her right hand a palm branch and a wreath of laurel, and in her left
+three standards, upon which are written: "ERIE" "CHIPPEWA" "NIAGARA."
+She dictates to the muse of History, who is seated on the ground,
+writing. Exergue: BATTLES OF CHIPPEWA. JULY 5. 1814. NIAGARA. JULY 25.
+1814. ERIE. SEP. (_September_) 17. 1814. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+PETER BUEL PORTER was born in Salisbury, Connecticut, August 14, 1773.
+He was graduated at Yale College, New Haven, in 1791; and studied law
+and commenced practice in Canandaigua, New York, in 1795. He was a
+member of Congress, 1809-1813; a major-general of New York volunteers,
+1813; and distinguished himself at the battles of Chippewa, Niagara,
+and Erie, for which Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold
+medal.[97] He was again a member of Congress, 1815-1816; was appointed
+a United States commissioner for determining the north-western
+boundary, 1816; and was secretary of War in 1828-1829. He died at
+Niagara Falls, March 20, 1844.
+
+ [Footnote 97: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal, and the official reports of the battles
+ of Chippewa, Niagara, and Erie, are given under No.
+ 39, page 203.]
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 216)
+
+_Brigadier-General P. B. Porter to Major-General Jacob Brown._
+
+ To
+ Jacob BROWN, Esq., Fort Erie, September 22d, 1814.
+ Major-General commanding.
+
+ Sir: In executing the duty you have imposed on me, of reporting
+ the conduct of the officers and men composing the left column,
+ which you were pleased to place under my command, in the sortie
+ of the 17th instant, the pleasure I derive in representing to you
+ the admirable conduct of the whole, is deeply chastened by sorrow
+ for the loss of many brave and distinguished men.
+
+ Being obliged, from the nature of the ground, to act on foot, it
+ was impossible that my own personal observation should reach to
+ every officer. Some part of this report must therefore rest upon
+ the information of others.
+
+ It is the business of this communication to speak of the conduct
+ of individuals; yet you will permit me to premise, although well
+ known to yourself already, that the object of the left column was
+ to penetrate by a circuitous route between the enemy's batteries,
+ where one-third of his force was always kept on duty, and his
+ main camp, and that it was sub-divided into three divisions: the
+ advance of 200 riflemen, and a few Indians, commanded by Colonel
+ Gibson, and two columns moving parallel to, and 30 yards distant
+ from, each other. The right column was commanded by
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Wood, headed by 400 infantry, under Major
+ Brooke, of the 23d, and followed by 500 volunteers and militia,
+ being parts of Lieutenant-Colonels Dobbin's, M'Burney's, and
+ Fleming's regiments, and was intended to attack the batteries.
+
+ The left column of 500 militia was commanded by Brigadier-General
+ Davis, and comprised the commands of Lieutenant-Colonels Hopkins,
+ Churchhill and Crosby, and was intended to hold in check any
+ reinforcements from the enemy's camp; or both columns
+ (circumstances requiring it, which frequently happened) to
+ co-operate in the same object.
+
+ After carrying by storm, in the handsomest style, a strong block
+ house, in rear of the third battery, making its garrison
+ prisoners, destroying the three 24-pounders and their carriages
+ in the third battery, and blowing up the enemy's magazine, and
+ after co-operating with General Miller in taking the second
+ battery, the gallant leaders of the three divisions all fell
+ nearly at the same time; Colonel Gibson, at the second battery,
+ and General Davis and Lieutenant-Colonel Wood in an assault upon
+ the first.
+
+ Brigadier-General Davis, although a militia officer of little
+ experience, conducted on this occasion with all the coolness and
+ bravery of a veteran, and fell while advancing upon the enemy's
+ entrenchments. His loss as a citizen as well as a soldier, will
+ be severely felt in the patriotic county of Genesee. Colonel
+ Gibson fully sustained the high military reputation which he had
+ before so justly acquired. You know how exalted an opinion I have
+ always entertained of Lieutenant-Colonel Wood of the engineers.
+ His conduct on this day was what it uniformly has been, on every
+ similar occasion, an exhibition of military skill, acute judgment,
+ and heroic valour. Of the other regular officers, (p. 217)
+ Lieutenant-Colonel M'Donald and Major Brooke, senior in command,
+ will report to you in relation to their respective divisions.
+ Permit me, however, to say of these two officers, that, much as
+ was left to them by the fall of their distinguished leaders, they
+ were able to sustain their parts in the most admirable manner,
+ and they richly deserve the notice of the government.
+
+ Of the militia, I regret that the limits of a report will not
+ permit me even to name all of those who on this occasion
+ established claims to the gratitude of their fellow citizens;
+ much less to particularize individual merit. Lieutenant-Colonels
+ Hopkins, M'Burney, Churchhill and Crosby, and Majors Lee, Marcle,
+ Wilson, Lawrence, Burr, Dunham, Kellogg and Ganson, are entitled
+ to the highest praise for their gallant conduct, their steady and
+ persevering exertions. Lieutenant-Colonel Dobbin being prevented
+ by severe indisposition from taking the field, Major Hall,
+ assistant inspector general, volunteered his services to join
+ Major Lee in the command of the volunteer regiment; and Major Lee
+ and every other officer speak in the highest terms of the gallant
+ and good conduct of this young officer.
+
+ Captain Fleming, who commanded the Indians, was, as he always is,
+ in the front of the battle. There is not a more intrepid soldier
+ in the army. I should be ungrateful were I to omit the names of
+ Captains Knapp and Hull of the volunteers, and Captain Parker and
+ Lieutenant Chatfield of the militia, by whose intrepidity I was,
+ during the action, extricated from the most unpleasant situation.
+ Captains Richardson, Buel and Kennedy, Lieutenants Parkhurst and
+ Brown, and Adjutants Dobbin, Bates and Robinson, particularly
+ distinguished themselves. The patriotic conduct of Captain
+ Elliot, with twenty young gentlemen, who volunteered from
+ Batavia, and of Major Hubbard, with fourteen men exempted by age
+ from military duty, should not be omitted. They were conspicuous
+ during the action.
+
+ You will excuse me if I shall seem partial in speaking of my own
+ family, consisting of my brigade major, Frazer, my volunteer
+ aid-de-camp Riddle (both first lieutenants in the 15th infantry),
+ Captain Bigger, of the Canadian volunteers, Messrs. Williams and
+ Delapierre, volunteer aids for the day, all of whom, except Mr.
+ Williams, were wounded.
+
+ Lieutenants Frazer and Riddle were engaged for the most of the
+ preceding day with fatigue parties, cutting roads for the advance
+ of the column through the swamp, and falling timber to the rear,
+ and within 150 yards of the enemy's right; which service they
+ executed with so much address as to avoid discovery; and on the
+ succeeding day they conducted the two columns to the attack.
+ Frazer was severely wounded by a musket ball while spiking a gun
+ on the second battery. Riddle, after the first battery was
+ carried, descended into the enemy's magazine, and after securing
+ (with the assistance of quarter master Greene of the volunteers,
+ whose good conduct deserves much praise) a quantity of fixed
+ ammunition, blew up the magazine, and suffered severely by the
+ explosion. I must solicit, through you, Sir, the attention of the
+ general government to these meritorious young men. Captain Bigger
+ is an excellent officer, and rendered me much assistance, but was
+ dangerously wounded. The other young gentlemen are citizens, and
+ deserve much credit for their activity, and for having
+ voluntarily encountered danger. My aid-de-camp, Major Dox, was
+ confined at Buffalo by sickness.
+
+ On the whole, Sir, I can say of the regular troops attached (p. 218)
+ to the left column, of the veteran volunteers of Lieutenant-Colonel
+ Dobbin's regiment, that every man did his duty, and their conduct
+ on this occasion reflects a new lustre on their former brilliant
+ achievements. To the militia, the compliment is justly due, and I
+ could pay them no greater one, than to say, that they were not
+ surpassed by the heroes of Chippewa and Niagara in steadiness and
+ bravery.
+
+ The studied intricacy of the enemy's defences, consisting not
+ only of the breastwork connecting their batteries, but of
+ successive lines of entrenchments for a hundred yards in the
+ rear, covering the batteries and enfilading each other, and the
+ whole obstructed by abatis, brush and felled timber, was
+ calculated to produce confusion among the assailants, and led to
+ several contests at the point of the bayonet. But by our double
+ columns, any temporary irregularity in the one, was always
+ corrected by the other. Our success would probably have been more
+ complete but for the rain which unfortunately set in soon after
+ we commenced our march, which rendered the fire of many of our
+ muskets useless, and by obscuring the sun, led to several unlucky
+ mistakes. As an instance of this, a body of 50 prisoners who had
+ surrendered, were ordered to the fort in charge of a subaltern
+ and 14 volunteers; the officer mistaking the direction, conducted
+ them towards the British camp in the route by which we had
+ advanced, and they were re-taken with the whole of the guard,
+ excepting the officer and one man, who fought their way back.
+ Several of our stragglers were made prisoners by the same
+ mistake. But, Sir, notwithstanding these accidents, we have
+ reason to rejoice at our signal success, in inflicting a vastly
+ disproportionate injury on the enemy, and in wholly defeating all
+ his plans of operation against this army.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.
+ P. B. PORTER,
+ _Brigadier General commanding Volunteers and Militia_.
+
+
+
+No. 41. (p. 219)
+PLATE XLII.
+
+
+_July 5 and 25, August 15, and September 17, 1814._
+
+ Brig. General Eleazer W. Ripley. [Rx]. Resolution of Congress
+ Novemb. 3. 1814.
+
+BRIGADIER-GENERAL ELEAZER WHEELOCK RIPLEY.
+
+[_Victories of Chippewa, Niagara, and Erie._]
+
+BRIG. (_Brigadier_) GENERAL ELEAZER W. (_Wheelock_) RIPLEY. Bust of
+General Ripley, in uniform, facing the right FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS NOVEMB. (_November_) 3. 1814. A winged Victory,
+standing, holds in her right hand a trumpet and a crown of laurel, and
+with her left is hanging upon a palm tree a shield on which are the
+words: "CHIPPEWA" "NIAGARA" "ERIE." Exergue: BATTLES OF CHIPPEWA JULY
+5. 1814. NIAGARA JULY 25. 1814. ERIE. AUG. (_August_) 15. SEP.
+(_September_) 17 1814. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).[98]
+
+ [Footnote 98: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal, and the official reports of the battles
+ of Chippewa, Niagara and Erie, are given under No.
+ 39, page 203, and No. 44, page 226.]
+
+
+ELEAZER WHEELOCK RIPLEY was born in Hanover, New Hampshire, April 15,
+1782. He was graduated at Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire,
+in 1800, and studied law. He was speaker of the Legislature of
+Massachusetts in 1812; a lieutenant-colonel the same year; colonel of
+the 21st regiment of infantry, 1813; and a brigadier-general, 1814. He
+distinguished himself at Chippewa, at Niagara, and at Erie, for which
+services he received the thanks of Congress and a gold medal. He (p. 220)
+was wounded at Niagara, and again dangerously at Erie; was breveted a
+major-general, July 25, 1814; resigned in 1820, and settled in
+Louisiana, which he represented in Congress, 1835-1839. He died at
+West Feliciana, Louisiana, March 2, 1839.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Brigadier-General E. W. Ripley to Brigadier-General Gaines._
+
+ To
+ BRIGADIER-GENERAL GAINES. Fort Erie, August 17th, 1814.
+
+ Sir: I take the liberty of reporting you the cause of operations
+ on the left flank of the camp, during the action of the 15th
+ instant.
+
+ From indications satisfactory to me, I was persuaded very early
+ of the enemy's design of attacking us in our position. Before any
+ alarm, I caused my brigade to occupy their alarm posts. On the
+ first fire of the picket, Captain Towson opened his artillery
+ upon them from Fort Williams, in a style which does him infinite
+ credit. It was continued with very great effect upon the enemy
+ during the whole action.
+
+ The enemy advanced with fixed bayonets, and attempted to enter
+ our works between the fort and water. They brought ladders for
+ the purpose of scaling, and in order to prevent their troops from
+ resorting to any other course excepting the bayonet, had caused
+ all the flints to be taken from their muskets. The column that
+ approached in this direction consisted of Colonel Fischer's
+ command, and amounted in number to at least 1,500 men; and,
+ according to the representation of prisoners, they were 2,000
+ strong. The companies posted at the point of the works, which
+ they attempted to escalade, were Captain Ross's, Captain
+ Marston's, Lieutenant Bowman's, and Lieutenant Larned's, of the
+ 21st regiment, not exceeding 250 men, under command of Major
+ Wood, of the engineer corps. On the enemy's approach they opened
+ their musketry upon them in a manner the most powerful. Fort
+ Williams and this little band, emitted one broad uninterrupted
+ sheet of light. The enemy were repulsed. They rallied, came on a
+ second time to the charge, and a party waded round our line by
+ the lake, and came in on the flank; but a reserve of two
+ companies, posted in the commencement of the action to support
+ this point, marched up and fired upon the party, who were all
+ killed or taken. Five times in this manner did the enemy advance
+ to the charge; five times were their columns beaten back in the
+ utmost confusion by a force one-sixth of their numbers; till (p. 221)
+ at length finding the contest unavailing, they retired. At
+ this point we made 147 prisoners.
+
+ During the contest in this quarter, the lines of the whole of the
+ left wing were perfectly lined, in addition to the reserves; and
+ I found myself able to detach three companies of the 23d regiment
+ from the left, to reinforce the troops at Fort Erie, viz.:
+ Captain Wattles', Lieutenant Cantine's, and Lieutenant Brown's
+ companies, and one of the 19th under Captain Chunn. They were in
+ the fort during the time of the explosion, and their conduct is
+ highly spoken of by Major Brooke, their commanding officer.
+ Indeed, from the high state to which that regiment has been
+ brought by Major Brooke, I am convinced that no troops will
+ behave better.
+
+ In submitting to your view the conduct of the troops under my
+ command on this occasion, I find every thing to applaud, nothing
+ to reprehend. The utmost coolness and subordination was
+ manifested, both by the 21st and 23d regiments. To Major Wood I
+ feel particularly indebted. This officer's merits are so well
+ known, that approbation can scarcely add to his reputation. He
+ has the merit, with the Spartan band, in connection with Captain
+ Towson's artillery, of defeating a vaunting foe of six times his
+ force. Major Brooke did every thing in his power: and it affords
+ me pleasure at all times to call the attention of the general
+ commanding to this amiable and accomplished officer.
+
+ The officers commanding companies immediately engaged, have my
+ highest commendation. Their conduct was most judicious and
+ gallant. I cannot refrain from adverting to the manner in which
+ Captain Towson's artillery was served. I have never seen it
+ equalled. This officer has so often distinguished himself, that
+ to say simply that he is in action, is a volume of eulogium; the
+ army, only to be informed he is there, by a spontaneous assent,
+ are at once satisfied that he has performed well his part. I have
+ no idea that there is an artillery officer in any service
+ superior to him in the knowledge and performance of his duty.
+
+ The officers I have mentioned as commanding companies of the 21st
+ and 23d regiments, are particularly commended by their commanding
+ officers. Captain Marston, a most valuable officer, commanded a
+ first line of three companies opposed to the enemy's column.
+ Captain Ropes commanded the companies of reserve. Major Wood
+ reports in the highest terms of the good conduct of the
+ subalterns. Lieutenants Riddle, of the 15th, attached to the
+ 21st, and Hall, and ensigns Bean, Jones, Gumming, and Thomas, of
+ the 19th, as being extremely active, and performing their duties
+ with alacrity.
+
+ The manner in which Lieutenant Belknap, of the 23d, retired with
+ his picket guard from before the enemy's column, excites my
+ particular commendation. He gave orders to fire three times as he
+ was retreating to camp, himself bringing up the rear. In this
+ gallant manner, he kept the light advance of the enemy in check,
+ for a distance of two or three hundred yards. I have to regret,
+ that when entering our lines after his troops, the enemy pushed
+ so close upon him that he received a severe wound from a bayonet.
+
+ Lieutenant Bushnel and Cissney, of the 19th, while gallantly
+ engaged with the enemy at Fort Erie, were both severely, if not
+ mortally, wounded. Their conduct merits the warmest approbation.
+
+ Permit me to recommend to your notice, the good conduct of my (p. 222)
+ staff, Lieutenant Kirby, of the corps of artillery, my
+ aid-de-camp, and Lieutenant Holding, acting brigade major; their
+ activity and zeal was entirely to my satisfaction.
+
+ I close this long report, with stating to you, in the highest
+ terms of approbation, the skillfulness exhibited by Doctor
+ Fuller, surgeon of the 23d, and Doctor Trowbridge, surgeon of the
+ 21st infantry, with their mates Doctor Gale, of the 23d, and
+ Doctors Everett and Allen, of the 21st; their active, humane and
+ judicious treatment of the wounded, both of the enemy and of our
+ own, together with their steady and constant attention to the
+ duties of their station, must have attracted your personal
+ observation, and I am confident will receive your approbation.
+
+ I have the honour to be, etc.,
+ E. W. RIPLEY,
+ _Brigadier-General commanding 2d Brigade_.
+
+
+
+No. 42. (p. 223)
+PLATE XLIII.
+
+
+_July 5 and 25, and September 17, 1814._
+
+ Brigadier Genl. James Miller. [Rx]. Resolution of Congress
+ November 3. 1814.
+
+BRIGADIER-GENERAL JAMES MILLER.
+
+[_Victories of Chippewa, Niagara, and Erie._]
+
+BRIGADIER GEN{L}. (_General_) JAMES MILLER. Bust of General Miller, in
+uniform, facing the right. Exergue: I'LL TRY. His answer when he
+received the order to attack the enemy's batteries on the hill at
+Niagara. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS NOVEMBER 3. 1814. Colonel Miller, at the head
+of his troops, is carrying the British batteries on the hill at
+Niagara. Exergue: BATTLES OF CHIPPEWA JULY 5. 1814. NIAGARA. JULY 25.
+1814. ERIE SEP. (_September_) 17. 1814. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+JAMES MILLER was born in Peterborough, Hillsborough County, New
+Hampshire, April 25, 1776. He practiced law from 1803 to 1808, when he
+entered the army with the rank of major; was made a lieutenant-colonel
+in 1810, and distinguished himself in the West, under Harrison; and
+became colonel of the 21st infantry, March 9, 1814. He greatly
+distinguished himself at Chippewa, Niagara, and at Erie, for which he
+was breveted a brigadier-general and received the thanks of Congress
+and a gold medal.[99] At Niagara, when ordered to carry the British
+batteries on the heights, he made the celebrated reply, "I'll try,
+Sir." He resigned in 1819; and was governor of Arkansas Territory in
+1819-1825, and United States collector of customs at Salem,
+Massachusetts, from 1825 to 1849. He died at Temple, New Hampshire,
+June 7, 1851.
+
+ [Footnote 99: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal, and the official reports of the battles
+ of Chippewa, Niagara, and Erie, are given under No.
+ 39, page 203.]
+
+
+
+No. 43. (p. 224)
+PLATE XLIV.
+
+
+_July 5 and 25, 1814._
+
+ Major General Winfield Scott. [Rx]. Resolution of Congress
+ November 3. 1814 etc.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL WINFIELD SCOTT.
+
+[_Victories of Chippewa and Niagara._]
+
+MAJOR GENERAL WINFIELD SCOTT. Bust of General Scott, in uniform,
+facing the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+A serpent, entwined in a wreath of laurel and palm, is biting its
+tail--emblem of immortality through glory and victory. RESOLUTION OF
+CONGRESS NOVEMBER 3. 1814. BATTLES OF CHIPPEWA JULY 5. 1814. NIAGARA
+JULY 25. 1814. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).[100],[101]
+
+ [Footnote 100: See INTRODUCTION, page
+ ix.]
+
+ [Footnote 101: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal, and the official reports of the battles
+ of Chippewa and Niagara, are given under No. 39,
+ page 203.]
+
+
+WINFIELD SCOTT was born near Petersburg, Virginia, June 13, 1786. He
+was graduated at William and Mary College, Virginia, studied law, and
+for some time engaged in practice. He was appointed captain of light
+artillery, May 3, 1808, and served in Louisiana under General
+Wilkinson, but resigned on account of differences with him. He was
+made lieutenant-colonel of the 2d artillery, July 6, 1812, and was
+taken prisoner at Queenstown Heights, Upper Canada, in the following
+October. He became colonel of the 2d artillery and adjutant-general
+under General Dearborn, March 18, 1813, and brigadier-general March 9,
+1814. He distinguished himself at Chippewa, July 5, and on July 25, at
+Niagara (Lundy's Lane) where he was severely wounded. Congress gave
+him a vote of thanks and a gold medal for Chippewa and Niagara, and he
+was breveted a major-general, September 14, 1814. He went on a mission
+to Europe in 1815; was sent to Maine to settle the boundary question
+in 1839, and was promoted major-general and commander-in-chief of (p. 225)
+the army, June 25, 1841. As commander-in-chief in Mexico he took Vera
+Cruz, March 26, 1847, and gained the battles of Cerro Gordo, April 18;
+Contreras, August 19; San Antonio and Churubusco, August 20; Molinos
+del Rey, September 8; Chapultepec, September 13; and occupied the City
+of Mexico, September 14. For this brilliant campaign Congress gave him
+a vote of thanks and a gold medal.[102] He received the honorary
+degree of LL. D. from Columbia College, New York, in 1850, and also
+from Harvard College, Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 1861. He was an
+unsuccessful candidate for the Presidency in 1852; was made
+lieutenant-general, by brevet, February 28, 1855; was sent on a
+mission to Oregon to settle the boundary question, 1859; remained true
+to the Union at the outbreak of the Civil War, and resigned, November
+1, 1861. He died at West Point, New York, May 29, 1866.
+
+ [Footnote 102: See No. 62, page 304.]
+
+
+
+No. 44. (p. 226)
+PLATE XLV.
+
+
+_August 15, 1814._
+
+ Major General Edmund P. Gaines. [Rx]. Resolution of Congress
+ November 3. 1814.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL EDMUND PENDLETON GAINES.
+
+[_Victory of Erie._]
+
+MAJOR GENERAL EDMUND P. (_Pendleton_) GAINES. Bust of General Gaines,
+in uniform, facing the right FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS NOVEMBER 3. 1814. A winged Victory, standing on
+a British shield, holds a palm branch in her left hand, and places
+with her right a crown of laurel upon the cascabel of a cannon
+standing upright in the ground, and forming the centre of a trophy of
+the enemy's arms: on the cannon is the inscription ERIE. Exergue:
+BATTLE OF ERIE AUG. (_August_) 15. 1814. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).[103]
+
+ [Footnote 103: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal is given under No. 39, page 203.]
+
+
+EDMUND PENDLETON GAINES was born in Culpepper County, Virginia, March
+20, 1777. He entered the army as ensign of infantry, 1799; became
+first-lieutenant, 1802; captain, 1807; major and lieutenant-colonel,
+1812; colonel, 1813, and brigadier-general 1814. He greatly
+distinguished himself at the battle of Erie, August 15, 1814, and was
+badly wounded on the 28th of the same month. For his services on this
+occasion he was breveted major-general, September 14, 1814, and
+Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold medal. He served in
+Florida (Seminole war) and in Georgia (Creek war); and was commander
+of the southern and afterward of the western military districts. He
+died in New Orleans, June 6, 1849.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 227)
+
+_General Gaines to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honourable Head-Quarters, Fort Erie, U. C.,[104]
+ John ARMSTRONG, August 15th, 1814.
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.
+
+ [Footnote 104: U. C., Abbreviation of Upper
+ Canada.]
+
+ Sir: My heart is gladdened with gratitude to Heaven and joy to my
+ country, to have it in my power to inform you that the gallant
+ army under my command has this morning beaten the enemy commanded
+ by Lieutenant-General Drummond, after a severe conflict of nearly
+ three hours, commencing at 2 o'clock this morning. They attacked
+ us on each flank, got possession of the salient bastion of the
+ old Fort Erie, which was regained at the point of the bayonet,
+ with a dreadful slaughter. The enemy's loss in killed and
+ prisoners, is about 600; near 300 killed. Our loss is
+ considerable, but I think not one-tenth as great as that of the
+ enemy. I will not detain the express to give you the particulars.
+ I am preparing my force to follow up the blow.
+
+ With great respect, etc.,
+ Edmund P. GAINES,
+ _Brigadier-General commanding_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Gaines to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honourable Head-Quarters, left wing, 2d Division,
+ John ARMSTRONG, Fort Erie, U. C., August 23d, 1814.
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour to communicate, for the information of the
+ department of war, the particulars of the battle fought at this
+ place, on the 15th instant, between the left wing of the 2d
+ division of the northern army, under my command, and the British
+ forces in the Peninsula of Upper Canada, commanded by
+ Lieutenant-General Drummond, which terminated in a signal victory
+ in favour of the united American arms.
+
+ Our position on the margin of the lake, at the entrance of the
+ Niagara river, being nearly a horizontal plain, twelve or fifteen
+ feet above the surface of the water, possessing few natural
+ advantages, had been strengthened in front by temporary parapet
+ breast works, entrenchments and abatis, with two batteries and
+ six field pieces. The small unfinished fort, Erie, with a 24, 18
+ and 12 pounder, forms the north-east, and the Douglass battery,
+ with an 18 and 6 pounder near the edge of the lake, the
+ south-east angle of our right. The left is defended by a redoubt
+ battery, with six field pieces just thrown up on a small ridge.
+ Our rear was left open to the lake, bordered by a rocky shore of
+ easy ascent. The battery on the left was defended by Captain (p. 228)
+ Towson; Fort Erie, by Captain Williams, with Major Trimble's
+ command of the 19th infantry; the batteries on the front, by
+ Captains Biddle and Fanning; the whole of the artillery commanded
+ by Major Hindman. Parts of the 11th, 9th and 22d infantry (of the
+ late veteran brigade of Major-General Scott) were posted on the
+ right, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Aspinwall. General
+ Ripley's brigade, consisting of the 21st and 23d, defended on the
+ left. General Porter's brigade of New York and Pennsylvania
+ volunteers, with our distinguished riflemen, occupied the centre.
+
+ I have heretofore omitted stating to you, that during the 13th
+ and 14th, the enemy had kept up a brisk cannonade, which was
+ sharply returned from our batteries, without any considerable
+ loss on our part. At 6 P.M. one of their shells lodged in a small
+ magazine in Fort Erie, which was fortunately almost empty. It
+ blew up with an explosion more awful in appearance than injurious
+ in its effects, as it did not disable a man or derange a gun. It
+ occasioned but a momentary cessation of the thunders of the
+ artillery on both sides; it was followed by a loud and joyous
+ shout by the British army, which was instantly returned on our
+ part, and Captain Williams, amidst the smoke of the explosion,
+ renewed the contest by an animated roar of his heavy cannon.
+
+ From the supposed loss of our ammunition, and the consequent
+ depression such an event was likely to produce upon the minds of
+ our men, I felt persuaded that this explosion would lead the
+ enemy to assault, and made my arrangements accordingly.
+
+ The night was dark, and the early part of it raining, but the
+ faithful sentinel slept not; one-third of the troops were up at
+ their posts. At half-past two o'clock, the right column of the
+ enemy approached, and though enveloped in darkness black as his
+ designs and principles, was distinctly heard on our left, and
+ promptly marked by our musketry under Major Wood, and cannon
+ under Captain Towson. Being mounted at the moment, I repaired to
+ the point of attack, where the sheet of fire rolling from
+ Towson's battery, and the musketry of the left wing of the 21st
+ infantry under Major Wood, enabled me to see the enemy's column
+ of about 1,500 men approaching on that point, his advance was not
+ checked, until it had approached within ten feet of our infantry.
+ A line of loose brush representing an abatis only intervened; a
+ column of the enemy attempted to pass round the abatis through
+ the water, where it was nearly breast deep. Apprehending that
+ this point would be carried, I ordered a detachment of riflemen
+ and infantry to its support, but having met with the gallant
+ commander, Major Wood, was assured by him that he could defend
+ his position without reinforcements. At this moment the enemy
+ were repulsed, but instantly renewed the charge and were again
+ repulsed. My attention was now called to the right, where our
+ batteries and lines were soon lighted by a most brilliant fire of
+ cannon and musketry; it announced the approach of the centre and
+ left columns of the enemy, under Colonels Drummond and Scott; the
+ latter was received by the veteran 9th, under the command of
+ Captain Foster, and Captains Broughton and Harding's companies of
+ New York and Pennsylvania volunteers, aided by a six-pounder
+ judiciously posted by Major M'Ree, chief engineer, who was most
+ active and useful at this point; they were repulsed. That of the
+ centre, led by Colonel Drummond, was not long kept in check; it
+ approached at once every assailable point of the fort; and (p. 229)
+ with scaling ladders ascended the parapet, but was repulsed
+ with fearful carnage. The assault was twice repeated, and as
+ often checked, but the enemy having moved round the ditch covered
+ by darkness, added to the heavy cloud of smoke which had rolled
+ from our cannon and musketry, enveloping surrounding objects,
+ repeated the charge, re-ascended the ladders; the pikes, bayonets
+ and spears fell upon our gallant artillerists. The gallant
+ spirits of our favourite Captain Williams and Lieutenants
+ M'Donough and Watmough, with their brave men, were overcome. The
+ two former, and several of their men, received deadly wounds. Our
+ bastion was lost; Lieutenant M'Donough, being severely wounded,
+ demanded quarter; it was refused by Colonel Drummond. The
+ lieutenant then seized a handspike and nobly defended himself
+ until he was shot down with a pistol by the monster who had
+ refused him quarter, who often reiterated the order: "_Give the
+ damned Yankees no quarter._" This officer, whose bravery, if it
+ had been seasoned with virtue, would have entitled him to the
+ admiration of every soldier, the hardened murderer soon met his
+ fate. He was shot through the breast while repeating the order
+ "_to give no quarter_."
+
+ The battle now raged with increased fury on the right, but on the
+ left the enemy was repulsed and put to flight. Thence and from
+ the centre I ordered reinforcements. They were promptly sent by
+ Brigadier-General Ripley and Brigadier-General Porter. Captain
+ Fanning, of the corps of artillery, kept up a spirited and
+ destructive fire with his field pieces, on the enemy attempting
+ to approach the fort. Major Hindman's gallant efforts, aided by
+ Major Trimble, having failed to drive the enemy from the bastion,
+ with the remaining artillerists and infantry in the forts,
+ Captain Birdsall, of the 4th rifle regiment, with a detachment of
+ riflemen, gallantly rushed in through the gateway to their
+ assistance, and with some infantry, charged the enemy, but was
+ repulsed, and the captain severely wounded. A detachment from the
+ 11th, 19th, and 22d infantry, under Captain Foster, of the 11th,
+ were introduced over the interior bastion, for the purpose of
+ charging the enemy. Major Hall, assistant inspector general, very
+ handsomely tendered his services to lead the charge. The charge
+ was gallantly made by Captain Foster and Major Hall, but owing to
+ the narrowness of the passage up to the bastion, admitting only
+ two or three men abreast, it failed. It was often repeated, and
+ as often checked; the enemy's force on the bastion was, however,
+ much cut to pieces and diminished by our artillery and small
+ arms. At this moment every operation was arrested by the
+ explosion of some cartridges deposited in the end of the stone
+ building adjoining the contested bastion. The explosion was
+ tremendous: it was decisive; the bastion was restored. At this
+ moment Captain Biddle was ordered to cause a field piece to be
+ posted so as to enfilade the exterior plain and salient glacis.
+ The captain, though not recovered from a severe contusion in the
+ shoulder, received from one of the enemy's shells, promptly took
+ his position, and served his field piece with vivacity and
+ effect. Captain Farming's battery likewise played upon them at
+ this time with great effect. The enemy were in a few moments
+ entirely defeated, taken or put to flight, leaving on the field
+ 222 killed, 174 wounded, and 186 prisoners. A large portion are
+ so severely wounded that they cannot survive; the slightly
+ wounded, it is presumed, were carried off.
+
+ To Brigadier-General Ripley, much credit is due for the (p. 230)
+ judicious disposition of the left wing, previous to the action,
+ and for the steady disciplined courage manifested by him and his
+ immediate command, and for the promptness with which he complied
+ with my orders for reinforcement during the action.
+ Brigadier-General Porter, commanding the New York and
+ Pennsylvania volunteers, manifested a degree of vigilance and
+ judgment in his preparatory arrangements, as well as military
+ skill and courage in the action, which proves him to be worthy
+ the confidence of his country, and the brave volunteers who
+ fought under him. Of the volunteers, Captains Broughton and
+ Harding with their detachments posted on the right, and attached
+ to the line commanded by Captain E. Foster, of the veteran 9th
+ infantry, handsomely contributed to the repulse of the left
+ column of the enemy under Colonel Scott.
+
+ The judicious preparations and steady conduct of
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Aspinwall commanding the first brigade, merit
+ approbation.
+
+ To Major McRee, chief engineer, the greatest credit is due for
+ the excellent arrangement and skillful execution of his plans for
+ fortifying and defending the right, and for his correct and
+ seasonable suggestions to regain the bastion. Major Wood, of the
+ engineers, also greatly contributed to the previous measures of
+ defence. He has accepted the command of a regiment of infantry,
+ (the 21st,) for which he has often proved himself well qualified,
+ but never so conspicuously as on this occasion.
+
+ Towson's battery emitted a constant sheet of fire. Wood's small
+ arms lighted up the space, and repulsed five terrible charges
+ made between the battery and the lake. Brigadier-General Ripley
+ speaks in high terms of the officers and men engaged,
+ particularly Captains Marston and Ropes, Lieutenants Riddle (of
+ the 15th, doing duty with the 21st) and Hall; Ensigns Benn,
+ Jones, Cummings and Thomas of the 21st, and Keally and Green of
+ the 19th.
+
+ Major Hindman, and the whole of the artillery under the command
+ of that excellent officer, displayed a degree of gallantry and
+ good conduct not to be surpassed. The particular situation of
+ Captain Towson, and the much lamented Captain Williams and
+ Lieutenant M'Donough, and that of Lieutenant Watmough, as already
+ described, with their respective commands, rendered them most
+ conspicuous. The courage and good conduct of Lieutenant
+ Zantzinger and Lieutenant Childs, is spoken of in high terms by
+ Major Hindman and Captain Towson, as also that of Sergeant-Major
+ Denhon. Captains Biddle and Fanning, on the centre and right of
+ their entrenchments, threw their shot to the right, left and
+ front, and annoyed the Indians and light troops of the enemy
+ approaching from the woods. Lieutenant Fontaine in his zeal to
+ meet the enemy, was unfortunately wounded and made prisoner.
+ Lieutenant Bird was active and useful, and in fact every
+ individual belonging to the corps did their duty.
+
+ The detachment of Scott's gallant brigade, consisting of parts of
+ the 9th, 11th and 22d infantry, did its duty in a manner worthy
+ the high reputation the brigade had acquired at Chippewa, and at
+ the Falls of Niagara. The 9th, under the command of Captain
+ Edmund Foster, was actively engaged against the left of the
+ enemy, and with the aid of Lieutenant Douglass's corps of
+ bombardiers, commanding the water battery, and that of the
+ volunteers, under Captains Broughton and Harding, effected their
+ repulse. The good conduct of Lieutenants Childs, Cushman and
+ Foot, and Ensign Blake, deserves commendation.
+
+ The officers killed, are Captain Williams and Lieutenant (p. 231)
+ McDonough of the artillery. Wounded, Lieutenant Watmough of the
+ artillery; Ensign Cissney 19th; Lieutenant Bushnel 21st;
+ Lieutenants Brown and Belknap 23d; and Captain Birdsall, 4th
+ rifle regiment, all severely.
+
+ Lieutenant Fontaine of the artillery, who was taken prisoner,
+ writes from the British camp, that he fortunately fell into the
+ hands of the Indians, who, after taking his money, treated him
+ kindly. It would seem, then, that these savages had not joined in
+ the resolution to give no quarter.
+
+ To Major Jones, assistant adjutant-general, and Major Hull,
+ assistant inspector-general; Captain Harris of the dragoons,
+ volunteer aid-de-camp; Lieutenant Belton, aid-de-camp, much
+ credit is due for their constant vigilance and strict attention
+ to every duty previous to the action, and the steady courage,
+ zeal, and activity, which they manifested during the action.
+
+ The surgeons, doctors Fuller 23d, Trowbridge 21st, with their
+ mates, doctors Gale of the 23d, and Everett and Allen of the
+ 21st, deserve the warmest approbation, for their indefatigable
+ exertions and humane attention to the wounded of our army, as
+ well as to the prisoners who fell into their hands.
+
+ I have the honour to be, etc.,
+ E. P. GAINES,
+ _Brigadier-General commanding_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Gaines to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honourable Headquarters, Fort Erie, Upper Canada,
+ John ARMSTRONG, August 26th, 1814.
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: In my report of the battle of the 15th instant, I
+ inadvertently omitted the names of Captain Chunn of the 19th,
+ Lieutenants Bowman and Larned, of the 21st, and Jewett of the
+ 11th infantry, as also my brigade major, Lieutenant Gleason, each
+ of whom bore a conspicuous part in the action, and whom I beg
+ leave to recommend to your notice. Lieutenants Bowman and Larned
+ commanded companies in the 21st, which so gallantly beat the
+ enemy's right column. Captain Chunn, with his company was doing
+ duty with the same regiment. I also omitted mentioning that a
+ part of this regiment pursued the enemy's right upwards of a
+ mile, and took 100 prisoners; his left was also pursued, and more
+ than a hundred prisoners were taken beyond our works. These facts
+ prove that the affair was not merely a _defence_ of our position,
+ or a mere _repulse_ of the enemy, as I find it called by some. As
+ regards myself, I am satisfied with the _result_, and am not
+ disposed to make any difficulty about the _name_ by which the
+ affair may be called; but it is due to the brave men I have the
+ honour to command, that I should say, that the affair was to the
+ enemy a _sore beating_ and a _defeat_, and it was to us a
+ _handsome victory_.
+
+ Our position is growing stronger every day by the exertions of
+ Majors M'Ree and Wood, and the officers and men generally. We
+ keep up a smart cannonade.
+
+ One of the enemy's pickets yesterday approached nearer to (p. 232)
+ ours than usual. Major Brooke, officer of the day, added 100
+ men to our picket, attacked and drove them in with considerable
+ loss; the major brought in about 30 muskets. In this affair
+ however, we have to lament the loss of another gallant officer,
+ Captain Wattles, of the 23d; our loss was otherwise
+ inconsiderable.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ E. P. GAINES,
+ _Brigadier-General commanding_.
+
+
+
+No. 45. (p. 233)
+PLATE XLVI.
+
+
+_September 11, 1814._
+
+ Major General Alexander Macomb. [Rx]. Resolution of Congress
+ November 3. 1814.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ALEXANDER MACOMB.
+
+[_Victory of Plattsburgh._]
+
+MAJOR GENERAL ALEXANDER MACOMB. Bust of General Macomb, in uniform,
+facing the right FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS NOVEMBER 3. 1814. The American army repulsing
+the British troops, who are striving to cross the Saranac river. To
+the left, Plattsburgh in flames; to the right, naval battle on Lake
+Champlain; in the distance, Cumberland Head. Exergue: BATTLE OF
+PLATTSBURGH SEPT. (_September_) 11. 1814. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).[105]
+
+ [Footnote 105: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal is given under No. 39, page 203.]
+
+
+ALEXANDER MACOMB was born in Detroit, April 3, 1782. He entered the
+army as cornet of cavalry, 1799; was 2d lieutenant, 1801; 1st
+lieutenant of engineers, 1802; captain, 1805; major, 1808;
+lieutenant-colonel 1810; colonel 3d Artillery, 1812; and
+brigadier-general, January, 1814. He gained the victory of Plattsburgh
+over the British troops, commanded by the governor-general of the
+Canadas, General Sir George Prevost, September 11, 1814, for which
+important achievement Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold
+medal, and he was breveted major-general. He was appointed chief of
+the engineer corps, 1821, and became major-general and commander-in-chief
+of the army, May 24, 1828. He died at the head-quarters of the army in
+Washington, June 25, 1841.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 234)
+
+_General Macomb to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honourable Head-Quarters, Plattsburgh,
+ John ARMSTRONG, September 15th, 1814.
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour to communicate for the information of the
+ war department, the particulars of the advance of the enemy into
+ the territory of the United States, the circumstances attending
+ the siege of Plattsburgh, and the defence of the posts entrusted
+ to my charge.
+
+ The governor-general of the Canadas, Sir George Prevost, having
+ collected all the disposable force of Lower Canada, with a view
+ of conquering the country as far as Crown Point and Ticonderoga,
+ entered the territories of the United States on the first of the
+ month, and occupied the village of Champlain, there avowed his
+ intentions, and issued orders and proclamations tending to
+ dissuade the people from their allegiance, and inviting them to
+ furnish his army with provisions. He immediately began to press
+ the wagons and teams in the vicinity, and loaded them with his
+ heavy baggage and stores. From this I was persuaded he intended
+ to attack this place. I had but just returned from the lines,
+ where I had commanded a fine brigade, which was broken to form
+ the division under Major-General Izard, ordered to the westward.
+ Being senior officer he left me in command, and except the four
+ companies of the 6th regiment, I had not an organized battalion
+ among those remaining. The garrison was composed of convalescents
+ and recruits of the new regiments, all in the greatest confusion,
+ as well as the ordnance and stores, and the works in no state of
+ defence.
+
+ To create an emulation and zeal among the officers and men in
+ completing the works, I divided them into detachments, and placed
+ them near the several forts; declaring in orders, that each
+ detachment was the garrison of its own work, and bound to defend
+ it to the last extremity. The enemy advanced cautiously and by
+ short marches, and our soldiers worked day and night; so that by
+ the time he made his appearance before this place we were
+ prepared to receive him.
+
+ General Izard named the principal work _Fort Moreau_, and to
+ remind the troops of the actions of their brave countrymen, I
+ called the redoubt on the right _Fort Brown_, and that on the
+ left _Fort Scott_. Besides these three works, we have two
+ block-houses strongly fortified.
+
+ Finding, on examining the returns of the garrison, that our force
+ did not exceed fifteen hundred effective men for duty, and well
+ informed that the enemy had as many thousands, I called on
+ General Mooers, of the New York militia, and arranged with him
+ plans for bringing forth the militia _en masse_. The inhabitants
+ of the village fled with their families and effects, except a few
+ worthy citizens and some boys, who formed themselves into a
+ party, received rifles, and were exceedingly useful. By the 4th
+ of the month, General Mooers collected about 700 militia, and
+ advanced seven miles on the Beekmantown road, to watch the
+ motions of the enemy, and to skirmish with him as he advanced;
+ also to obstruct the roads with fallen trees, and to break up the
+ bridges.
+
+ On the Lake road, at Deer Creek bridge, I posted 200 men (p. 235)
+ under Captain Sproul, of the 13th regiment, with orders to
+ _abatis_ the woods, to place obstructions in the road, and to
+ fortify himself; to this party I added two field pieces. In
+ advance of that position, was Lieutenant-Colonel Appling, with
+ 110 riflemen, watching the movements of the enemy and procuring
+ intelligence. It was ascertained that before daylight on the 6th,
+ the enemy would advance in two columns, on the two roads before
+ mentioned, dividing at Sampson's, a little below Chazy village.
+ The column on the Beekmantown road proceeded most rapidly, the
+ militia skirmished with his advanced parties, and, except a few
+ brave men, fell back most precipitately in the greatest disorder,
+ notwithstanding the British troops did not deign to fire on them,
+ except by their flankers and advanced patrols. The night
+ previous, I ordered Major Wool to advance with a detachment of
+ 250 men, to support the militia, and set them an example of
+ firmness. Also Captain Leonard, of the light artillery, was
+ directed to proceed with two pieces, to be on the ground before
+ day; yet he did not make his appearance before 8 o'clock, when
+ the enemy had approached within two miles of the village. With
+ his conduct, therefore, I am not well pleased. Major Wool, with
+ his party, disputed the road with great obstinacy, but the
+ militia could not be prevailed on to stand, notwithstanding the
+ exertions of their general and staff officers; although the
+ fields were divided by strong stone walls, and they were told
+ that the enemy could not possibly cut them off. The State
+ dragoons of New York wear red coats, and they being on the
+ heights to watch the enemy, gave constant alarm to the militia,
+ who mistook them for the enemy, and feared his getting in their
+ rear. Finding the enemy's columns had penetrated within a mile of
+ Plattsburgh, I despatched my aid-de-camp, Lieutenant Root, to
+ bring off the detachment at Dead Creek, and to inform
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Appling that I wished him to fall on the
+ enemy's right flank. The colonel fortunately arrived just in time
+ to save his retreat, and to fall in with the head of a column
+ _debouching_ from the woods. Here he poured in a destructive fire
+ from his riflemen at rest, and continued to annoy the column
+ until he formed a junction with Major Wool. The field pieces did
+ considerable execution among the enemy's columns. So undaunted,
+ however, was the enemy, that he never deployed in his whole
+ march, always pressing on our columns. Finding that every road
+ was full of troops crowding on us on all sides, I ordered the
+ field pieces to retire across the bridge and form a battery for
+ its protection, and to cover the retreat of the infantry, which
+ was accordingly done, and the parties of Appling and Wool, as
+ well as that of Sproul, retired alternately, keeping up a brisk
+ fire until they got under cover of the works. The enemy's light
+ troops occupied the houses near the bridge, and kept up a
+ constant firing from the windows and balconies, and annoyed us
+ much. I ordered them to be driven out with hot shot, which soon
+ put the houses in flames, and obliged the sharp-shooters to
+ retire. The whole day, until it was too late to see, the enemy's
+ light troops endeavoured to drive our guards from the bridge, but
+ they suffered dearly for their perseverance. An attempt was also
+ made to cross the upper bridge, where the militia handsomely
+ drove them back. The column which marched by the Lake road was
+ much impeded by the obstructions and the removal of the bridge at
+ Dead Creek, and, as it passed the creek and beach, the gallies
+ kept up a lively and galling fire. Our troops being now all on
+ the south side of the Saranac, I directed the planks to be taken
+ off the bridges and piled up in the form of breastworks, to (p. 236)
+ cover our parties intended for disputing the passage, which
+ afterwards enabled us to hold the bridges against very superior
+ numbers.
+
+ From the 7th to the 11th, the enemy was employed in getting on
+ his battering train, and erecting his batteries and approaches,
+ and constantly skirmishing at the bridges and fords. By this
+ time, the militia of New York, and the volunteers of Vermont,
+ were pouring in from all quarters: I advised General Mooers to
+ keep his force along the Saranac, to prevent the enemy's crossing
+ the river, and to send a strong body in his rear to harass him
+ day and night, and keep him in continual alarm. The militia
+ behaved with great spirit after the first day, and the volunteers
+ of Vermont were exceedingly serviceable. Our regular troops,
+ notwithstanding the constant skirmishing and repeated endeavours
+ of the enemy to cross the river, kept at their work day and night
+ strengthening the defences, and evinced a determination to hold
+ out to the last extremity.
+
+ It was reported that the enemy had only waited the arrival of his
+ flotilla, to make a general attack. About eight in the morning of
+ the 11th, as was expected, the flotilla appeared in sight round
+ Cumberland Head, and at nine, bore down and engaged our flotilla
+ at anchor in the bay off the town. At the same instant, the
+ batteries were opened on us, and continued throwing bomb shells,
+ shrapnels, balls, and congreve rockets until sunset, when the
+ bombardment ceased, every battery of the enemy being silenced by
+ the superiority of our fire. The naval engagement lasted but two
+ hours, in full view of both armies. Three efforts were made by
+ the enemy to pass the river, at the commencement of the cannonade
+ and bombardment, with a view of assaulting the works, and he had
+ prepared for that purpose an immense number of scaling ladders.
+ One attempt to cross was made at the village bridge, another at
+ the upper bridge, and a third at a ford about three miles from
+ the works. At the two first he was repulsed by the regulars; at
+ the ford, by the brave volunteers and militia, where he suffered
+ severely in killed, wounded, and prisoners; a considerable body
+ having crossed the stream, but were either killed, taken, or
+ driven back. The woods at this place were very favourable to the
+ operations of the militia. A whole company of the 76th regiment
+ was here destroyed, the three lieutenants and 27 men prisoners,
+ the captain and the rest killed.
+
+ I cannot forego the pleasure of here stating the gallant conduct
+ of Captain M'Glassin, of the 15th regiment, who was ordered to
+ ford the river, and attack a party constructing a battery on the
+ right of the enemy's line, within five hundred yards of Fort
+ Brown, which he handsomely executed at midnight with fifty men;
+ drove off the working party, consisting of one hundred and fifty,
+ and defeated a covering party of the same number, killing one
+ officer and six men in the charge, and wounding many. At dusk the
+ enemy withdrew his artillery from the batteries, and raised the
+ siege; at nine, under cover of the night, he sent off in a great
+ hurry all the baggage he could find transport for, and also his
+ artillery. At two next morning the whole army precipitately
+ retreated, leaving the sick and wounded to our generosity, and
+ the governor left a note with a surgeon requesting the humane
+ attention of the commanding general.
+
+ Vast quantities of provisions were left behind and destroyed,
+ also an immense quantity of bombshells, cannon balls, grape shot,
+ ammunition, flints, &c., &c.; intrenching tools of all (p. 237)
+ sorts, also tents and marquees. A great deal has been found
+ concealed in the ponds and creeks, and buried in the ground, and
+ a vast quantity carried off by the inhabitants. Such was the
+ precipitancy of his retreat, that he arrived at Chazy, a distance
+ of eight miles, before we had discovered he had gone. The light
+ troops, volunteers, and militia pursued immediately on learning
+ of his flight; and some of the mounted men made prisoners five
+ dragoons of the 19th regiment, and several others of the rear
+ guard. A continued fall of rain and a violent storm prevented
+ further pursuit. Upwards of 300 deserters have come in, and many
+ are hourly arriving. We have buried the British officers of the
+ army and navy with the honours of war, and shown every attention
+ and kindness to those who have fallen into our hands.
+
+ The conduct of the officers, non-commissioned officers, and
+ soldiers of my command, during this trying occasion, cannot be
+ represented in too high terms, and I feel it my duty to recommend
+ to the particular notice of government, Lieutenant-Colonel
+ Appling of the 1st rifle corps, Major Wool of the 29th, Major
+ Totten of the corps of engineers, Captain Brooks of the
+ artillery, Captain M'Glassin of the 15th, Lieutenants De Russy
+ and Trescott of the corps of engineers, Lieutenants Smyth,
+ Mountford, and Cromwell of the artillery, also my aid-de-camp
+ Lieutenant Root, who have all distinguished themselves by their
+ uncommon zeal and activity, and have been greatly instrumental in
+ producing the happy and glorious result of the siege.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Alexander MACOMB.
+
+ The loss of the enemy in killed, wounded, prisoners, and
+ deserters, since his first appearance, cannot fall short of
+ 2,500, including many officers, among whom is Colonel Wellington,
+ of the Buffs.
+
+ _____
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting Rifles to Martin F. Aitkin and others._
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States be, and he is hereby authorized to
+ cause to be delivered to Martin J. Aitkin, Azariah C. Flagg, Ira
+ A. Wood, Gustavus A. Bird, James Trowbridge, Hazen Mooers, Henry
+ K. Averill, St. John B. L. Skinner, Frederick P. Allen, Hiram
+ Walworth, Ethan Everist, Amos Soper, James Patten, Bartemus
+ Brooks, Smith Bateman, Melancthon W. Travis and Flavel Williams,
+ each, one rifle, promised them by General Macomb, while
+ commanding the Champlain department, for their gallantry and
+ patriotic services as a volunteer corps, during the siege of
+ Plattsburgh in September, one thousand eight hundred and
+ fourteen, on each of which said rifles there shall be a plate
+ containing an appropriate inscription.
+
+ Approved May 20, 1826.
+
+
+
+No. 46. (p. 238)
+PLATE XLVII.
+
+
+_January 8, 1815._
+
+ Major General Andrew Jackson. [Rx]. Resolution of Congress
+ February 27. 1815.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ANDREW JACKSON.
+
+[_Victory of New Orleans._]
+
+MAJOR GENERAL ANDREW JACKSON. Bust of General Jackson, in uniform,
+facing the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS FEBRUARY 27. 1815. A winged Victory, holding in
+her left hand a crown of laurel, and a tablet upon which she has
+written, at the dictation of Peace, the word ORLEANS. Exergue: BATTLE
+OF NEW ORLEANS JANUARY 8. 1815. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+ANDREW JACKSON was born in the Waxhaw Settlement, North Carolina,
+March 15, 1767. His parents had recently emigrated from Ireland, and
+he lost them both early in life. In 1781 he joined the Continental
+Army and served in North Carolina. Having studied law, he removed, in
+1788, to Nashville. He was the first member of Congress from
+Tennessee, in 1796; was United States senator, 1797-1798; judge of the
+Supreme Court of Tennessee, 1799; resigned in 1804, and retired to his
+farm, called "The Hermitage," near Nashville. As major-general of the
+Tennessee Volunteers, he gained victories over the Creek Indians at
+Talladega, November 9, 1813, at Emuckfaw and Enotochopco, January 22
+and 24, and at Tohopeka, March 27, 1814. He was appointed
+brigadier-general in the United States Army on April 19, (p. 239)
+major-general on May 1, 1814, and commander-in-chief for the defence
+of Louisiana against the British troops under General Packenham, whom
+he completely defeated at the battle of New Orleans, January 8, 1815.
+For this great victory Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold
+medal. He retired from the army, 1819, was governor of Florida
+territory, 1821, United States senator from Tennessee, 1823-1824,
+unsuccessful presidential candidate in 1824, and President of the
+United States (first term), 1829-1833; (second term), 1833-1837. He
+retired to the Hermitage in 1837, and died there June 8, 1845. He was
+known by the sobriquet of "Old Hickory."
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+ _Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to General Jackson._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ thanks of Congress be, and they are hereby, given to
+ Major-General Jackson, and, through him, to the officers and
+ soldiers of the regular army, of the militia and of the
+ volunteers, under his immediate command, and to the officers and
+ soldiers charged with the defence of Fort St. Philip, for their
+ uniform gallantry and good conduct, conspicuously displayed
+ against the enemy, from the time of his landing before New
+ Orleans until his final expulsion from the State of Louisiana,
+ and particularly for the valour, skill, and good conduct on the
+ eighth of January last, in repulsing, with great slaughter, a
+ numerous British army of chosen veteran troops, when attempting
+ by a bold and daring attack to carry by storm the works hastily
+ thrown up for the protection of New Orleans, and thereby
+ obtaining a most signal victory over the enemy with a disparity
+ of loss, on his part, unexampled in military annals.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to cause to be struck a gold medal, with devices emblematical of
+ this splendid achievement, and presented to Major-General
+ Jackson, as a testimony of the high sense entertained by Congress
+ of his judicious and distinguished conduct on that memorable
+ occasion.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to cause the foregoing resolution to be communicated to
+ Major-General Jackson in such terms as he may deem best
+ calculated to give effect to the objects thereof.
+
+ Approved February 27, 1815.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Jackson to the Secretary of War._ (p. 240)
+
+ To the Honourable Head Quarters,
+ SECRETARY OF WAR, Camp 4 miles below New Orleans,
+ Washington, D. C. January 13th, 1815.
+
+ Sir: At such a crisis, I conceive it my duty to keep you
+ constantly advised of my situation.
+
+ On the 10th instant I forwarded you an account of the bold
+ attempt made by the enemy on the morning of the 8th to take
+ possession of my works by storm, and of the severe repulse he met
+ with. That report having been sent by the mail which crosses the
+ lake, may possibly have miscarried; for which reason I think it
+ the more necessary briefly to repeat the substance of it.
+
+ Early on the morning of the 8th, the enemy having been actively
+ employed the two preceding days in making preparations for a
+ storm, advanced in two strong columns on my right and left. They
+ were received, however, with a firmness which it seems they
+ little expected, and which defeated all their hopes. My men,
+ undisturbed by their approach, which indeed they long anxiously
+ wished for, opened upon them a fire so deliberate and certain as
+ rendered their scaling ladders and fascines, as well as their
+ more direct implements of war, perfectly useless. For upwards of
+ an hour it was continued with a briskness of which there have
+ been but few instances, perhaps in any country. In justice to the
+ enemy, it must be said, they withstood it as long as could be
+ expected from the most determined bravery. At length, however,
+ when all prospect of success became hopeless, they fled in
+ confusion from the field, leaving it covered with their dead and
+ wounded. Their loss was immense. I had at first computed it at
+ 1500, but it is since ascertained to have been much greater. Upon
+ information which is believed to be correct, Colonel Hayne, the
+ inspector-general, reports it to be in total 2600. His report I
+ enclose you. My loss was inconsiderable, being only seven killed
+ and six wounded. Such a disproportion in loss, when we consider
+ the number and kind of troops engaged, must, I know, excite
+ astonishment, and may not everywhere be fully credited; yet I am
+ perfectly satisfied that the account is not exaggerated on the
+ one part, nor underrated on the other.
+
+ The enemy, having hastily quitted a post which they had gained
+ possession of on the other side of the river, and we having
+ immediately returned to it, both armies at present occupy their
+ former positions. Whether, after the severe losses he has
+ sustained, he is preparing to return to his shipping, or to make
+ still mightier efforts to attain his first object, I do not
+ pretend to determine. It becomes me to act as though the latter
+ were his intention. One thing, however, seems certain, that if he
+ still calculates on effecting what he has hitherto been unable to
+ accomplish, he must expect considerable reinforcements, as the
+ force with which he landed must undoubtedly be diminished by at
+ least 3000. Besides the loss which he sustained on the night of
+ the 23d ultimo, which is estimated at 400, he cannot have
+ suffered less between that period and the morning of the 18th
+ instant than 3000; having, within that time, been repulsed in two
+ general attempts to drive us from our position, and there having
+ been continual cannonading and skirmishing during the whole of
+ it. Yet he is still able to show a very formidable force.
+
+ There is little doubt that the commanding general, Sir Edward (p. 241)
+ Packenham, was killed in the action of the 8th, and that
+ Major-Generals Keane and Gibbs were badly wounded.
+
+ Whenever a more leisure moment shall occur, I will take the
+ liberty to make and forward you a more circumstantial account of
+ the several actions, and particularly that of the 8th, in doing
+ which my chief motive will be to render justice to those brave
+ men I have the honour to command, and who have so remarkably
+ distinguished themselves.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ Andrew JACKSON.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Jackson to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honourable
+ SECRETARY OF WAR, Camp below New Orleans,
+ Washington, D. C. January 19th, 1815.
+
+ Sir: Last night at 12 o'clock, the enemy precipitately decamped,
+ and returned to their boats, leaving behind them, under medical
+ attendance, eighty of his wounded, including two officers, 14
+ pieces of his heavy artillery, and a quantity of shot, having
+ destroyed much of his powder. Such was the situation of the
+ ground he abandoned, and of that through which he retired,
+ protected by canals, redoubts, entrenchments and swamps on his
+ right, and the river on his left, that I could not, without
+ encountering a risk which true policy did not seem to require, or
+ to authorize, attempt to annoy him much on his retreat. We took
+ only eight prisoners.
+
+ Whether it is the purpose of the enemy to abandon the expedition
+ altogether, or renew his efforts at some other point, I do not
+ pretend to determine with positiveness. In my own mind, however,
+ there is but little doubt that his last exertions have been made
+ in this quarter, at any rate for the present season, and by the
+ next I hope we shall be fully prepared for him. In this belief I
+ am strengthened not only by the prodigious loss he has sustained
+ at the position he has just quitted, but by the failure of his
+ fleet to pass Fort St. Philip.
+
+ His loss on this ground, since the debarkation of his troops, as
+ stated by the last prisoners and deserters, and as confirmed by
+ many additional circumstances, must have exceeded four thousand;
+ and was greater in the action of the 8th than was estimated, from
+ the most correct data then in his possession, by the
+ inspector-general, whose report has been forwarded to you. We
+ succeeded, on the 8th, in getting from the enemy about 1000 stand
+ of arms of various descriptions.
+
+ Since the action of the 8th, the enemy has been allowed very
+ little respite; my artillery from both sides of the river being
+ constantly employed, till the night, and indeed until the hour of
+ their retreat, in annoying them. No doubt they thought it quite
+ time to quit a position in which so little rest could be found.
+
+ I am advised by Major Overton, who commanded at Fort St. Philip,
+ in a letter of the 18th, that the enemy having bombarded his fort
+ for 8 or 9 days from 13-inch mortars without effect, had, on the
+ morning of that day, retired. I have little doubt that he would
+ have been able to have sunk their vessels had they attempted to
+ run by.
+
+ Giving the proper weight to all these considerations, I (p. 242)
+ believe you will not think me too sanguine in the belief that
+ Louisiana is now clear of its enemy. I hope, however, I need not
+ assure you, that wherever I command, such a belief shall never
+ occasion any relaxation in the measures for resistance. I am but
+ too sensible that the moment when the enemy is opposing us, is
+ not the most proper to provide for them.
+
+ I have the honour to be, etc.,
+ Andrew JACKSON.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Jackson's Farewell Address to his Army._
+
+ New Orleans, March, 1815.
+
+ The major-general is at length enabled to perform the pleasing
+ task of restoring to Tennessee, Kentucky, Louisiana, and the
+ territory of the Mississippi, the brave troops who have acted
+ such a distinguished part in the war which has just terminated.
+ In restoring these brave men to their homes, much exertion is
+ expected of, and great responsibility imposed on, the commanding
+ officers of the different corps. It is required of Major-Generals
+ Carroll and Thomas, and Brigadier-General Coffee, to march their
+ commands, without unnecessary delay, to their respective states.
+ The troops from the Mississippi territory and state of Louisiana,
+ both militia and volunteers, will be immediately mustered out of
+ service, paid, and discharged.
+
+ The major-general has the satisfaction of announcing the
+ approbation of the President of the United States to the conduct
+ of the troops under his command, expressed, in flattering terms,
+ through the honourable Secretary of War.
+
+ In parting with those brave men, whose destinies have been so
+ long united with his own, and in whose labours and glories it is
+ his happiness and his boast to have participated, the commanding
+ general can neither suppress his feelings, nor give utterance to
+ them as he ought. In what terms can he bestow suitable praise on
+ merit so extraordinary, so unparalleled? Let him, in one burst of
+ joy, gratitude, and exultation, exclaim, "These are the saviours
+ of their country; these the patriot soldiers, who triumphed over
+ the invincibles of Wellington, and conquered the conquerors of
+ Europe!" With what patience did you submit to privations; with
+ what fortitude did you endure fatigue; what valour did you
+ display in the day of battle! You have secured to America a proud
+ name among the nations of the earth; a glory which will never
+ perish.
+
+ Possessing those dispositions which equally adorn the citizen and
+ the soldier, the expectations of your country will be met in
+ peace, as her wishes have been gratified in war. Go, then, my
+ brave companions, to your homes; to those tender connections and
+ blissful scenes which render life so dear; full of honour, and
+ crowned with laurels that will never fade. When participating in
+ the bosoms of your families, the enjoyment of peaceful life, with
+ what happiness will you not look back to the toils you have
+ borne, to the dangers you have encountered? How will all your
+ past exposures be converted into sources of inexpressible
+ delight? Who, that never experienced your sufferings, will (p. 243)
+ be able to appreciate your joys? The man who slumbered
+ ingloriously at home, during your painful marches, your nights of
+ watchfulness, and your days of toil, will envy you the happiness
+ which these recollections will afford; still more will he envy
+ the gratitude of that country which you have so eminently
+ contributed to save.
+
+ Continue, fellow-soldiers, on your passage to your several
+ destinations, to preserve that subordination, that dignified and
+ manly deportment, which have so ennobled your character.
+
+ While the commanding general is thus giving indulgence to his
+ feelings, towards those brave companions, who accompanied him
+ through difficulties and danger, he cannot permit the names of
+ Blount, and Shelby, and Holmes, to pass unnoticed. With what
+ generous ardour and patriotism have these distinguished governors
+ contributed all their exertions to provide the means of victory!
+ The recollection of their exertions, and of the success which has
+ resulted, will be to them a reward more grateful than any which
+ the pomp of title, or the splendour of wealth, can bestow.
+
+ What happiness it is to the commanding general, that, while
+ danger was before him, he was, on no occasion, compelled to use,
+ towards his companions in arms, either severity or rebuke. If,
+ after the enemy had retired, improper passions began their empire
+ in a few unworthy bosoms, and rendered a resort to energetic
+ measures necessary for their suppression, he has not confounded
+ the innocent with the guilty, the seduced with the seducers.
+ Towards you, fellow-soldiers, the most cheering recollections
+ exist, blended, alas! with regret, that disease and war should
+ have ravished from us so many worthy companions. But the memory
+ of the cause in which they perished, and of the virtues which
+ animated them while living, must occupy the place where sorrow
+ would claim to dwell.
+
+ Farewell, fellow-soldiers. The expression of your general's
+ thanks is feeble; but the gratitude of a country of freemen is
+ yours, yours the applause of an admiring world.
+
+ Andrew JACKSON,
+ _Major-General commanding_.
+
+ _____
+
+_Resolutions of Congress complimentary to Commodore D. T. Patterson
+and others._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ Congress entertain a high sense of the valour and good conduct of
+ Commodore D. T. Patterson, of the officers, petty officers, and
+ seamen attached to his command for their prompt and efficient
+ co-operation with General Jackson in the late gallant and
+ successful defence of the city of New Orleans when assailed by a
+ powerful British force.
+
+ _Resolved_, That Congress entertain a high sense of the valour
+ and good conduct of Major Daniel Carmick, of the officers,
+ non-commissioned officers, and marines under his command, in the
+ defence of the said city, on the late memorable occasion.
+
+ Approved February 15, 1815.
+
+ _____
+
+_Resolutions of Congress complimentary to the People of the State (p. 244)
+of Louisiana, etc._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That
+ Congress entertain a high sense of the patriotism, fidelity,
+ zeal, and courage with which the people of the State of Louisiana
+ promptly and unanimously stepped forth, under circumstances of
+ imminent danger from a powerful invading army, in defence of all
+ the individual, social and political rights held dear to man.
+ Congress declare and proclaim, that the brave Louisianians
+ deserve well of the whole people of the United States.
+
+ _Resolved_, That Congress entertain a high sense of the
+ generosity, benevolence, and humanity displayed by the people of
+ New Orleans in voluntarily affording the best accommodations in
+ their power, and giving the kindest attention to the wounded, not
+ only of our own army, but also to the wounded prisoners of a
+ vanquished foe.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to cause the foregoing resolutions to be communicated to His
+ Excellency the Governor of Louisiana, accompanied with the
+ request that he cause the greatest possible publicity to be given
+ to them for the information of the whole people of Louisiana.
+
+ Approved February 15, 1815.
+
+
+
+No. 47. (p. 245)
+PLATE XLVIII.
+
+
+_February 20, 1815._
+
+ Carolus Stewart navis Amer. Constitution dux. [Rx]. Una
+ victoriam eripuit ratibus binis.
+
+CAPTAIN CHARLES STEWART.
+
+[_Capture of the Cyane and of the Levant._]
+
+CAROLUS STEWART NAVIS AMER. (_Americanae_) CONSTITUTION DUX. (_Charles
+Stewart, captain of the American vessel Constitution._) Bust of
+Captain Stewart, in uniform, facing the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+UNA VICTORIAM ERIPUIT RATIBUS BINIS. (_He snatched victory from two
+vessels with one._) Naval action between the United States frigate
+Constitution, of fifty-two guns, Captain Stewart, and the British
+frigate Cyane, of thirty-four guns, Captain Falcon, and the
+sloop-of-war Levant, of twenty-one guns, Captain the Honorable George
+Douglas. The Constitution, to windward, is opening with her port
+battery on the Levant; both British vessels are returning the fire
+from their starboard batteries. Exergue: INTER CONSTITU. NAV. AMERI.
+ET LEVANT ET CYANE NAV. ANG. DIE XX. FEBR. MDCCCXV. (_Inter
+Constitution navem Americanam et Levant et Cyane naves Anglicanas, die
+20 Februarii, 1815: Between the American vessel Constitution and the
+English vessels Levant and Cyane, on the 20th of February, 1815._) On
+the platform, FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+CHARLES STEWART was born in Philadelphia, July 18, 1778. He began life
+in the merchant service, but entered the navy as lieutenant, March 13,
+1798. He served in the West Indies, and afterward in the Tripolitan
+campaign, commanding the Siren. He escorted the Intrepid to (p. 246)
+Tripoli when Decatur blew up the Philadelphia, and was promoted to the
+rank of master-commandant, May 19, 1804, and of captain, April 22,
+1806. While in command of the frigate Constitution he fought and
+captured, February 20, 1815, the two British ships-of-war, Cyane,
+Captain Gordon Falcon, and Levant, Captain the Honorable George
+Douglas, for which brilliant action he received the thanks of Congress
+and a gold medal. He commanded in the Mediterranean from 1816 to 1820;
+in the Pacific from 1821 to 1823; was member of the Naval Board from
+1830 to 1833; commanded the navy yard at Philadelphia, 1837; and was
+put on the retired list in 1857; but was replaced on the active list
+as senior flag officer, 1859, and was appointed rear-admiral on the
+retired list, 1862. He died at Bordentown, New Jersey, November 7,
+1869.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captain Stewart, etc._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States be, and he is hereby requested, to
+ present to Captain Charles Stewart, of the frigate Constitution,
+ a gold medal, with suitable emblems and devices, and a silver
+ medal,[106] with suitable emblems and devices, to each
+ commissioned officer of the said frigate, in testimony of the
+ high sense entertained by Congress of the gallantry, good conduct
+ and services of Captain Stewart, his officers and crew, in the
+ capture of the British vessels of war, the Cyane and Levant,
+ after a brave and skilful combat.
+
+ [Footnote 106: The silver medals are copies of the
+ gold medal given to Captain Stewart.]
+
+ Approved February 22, 1816.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Stewart to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To the Honourable United States Frigate Constitution,
+ SECRETARY OF THE NAVY, May, 1815.
+ Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: On the 20th of February last, the island of Madeira bearing
+ about west southwest, distant 60 leagues, we fell in with His
+ Britannic Majesty's two ships-of-war, the Cyane and Levant, (p. 247)
+ 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 strongest assurance which can be given to the
+ government that all under my command did their duty, and
+ gallantly 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 information 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 honour to be, &c.,
+ Charles STEWART.
+
+ American loss: 3 killed, 12 wounded. British loss: 35 killed, 42
+ wounded. Prisoners taken, 313.
+
+ _____
+
+_Minutes of the action between the United States frigate Constitution,
+and His Britannic Majesty's skips Cyane and Levant, on the 20th
+February, 1815._
+
+ Commences with light breezes from the east, and cloudy weather.
+ At one, discovered a sail two points on the larboard bow, hauled
+ up and made sail in chase. At a quarter past one, made the sail
+ to be a ship; at three-quarters past one, discovered another sail
+ ahead; made them out at two P.M. to be both ships, standing
+ close hauled, with their starboard tacks on board; at four P.M.
+ the weathermost ship made signals, and bore up to her consort,
+ then about 10 miles to leeward; we bore up after her, and set
+ lower top-mast, top-gallant, and royal studding-sails in chase;
+ at half-past four, carried away our main royal mast; took in the
+ sails and got another prepared; at five P.M. commenced firing on
+ the chase from our two larboard bow guns; our shot falling short,
+ ceased firing; at half-past five, finding it impossible to
+ prevent their junction, cleared ship for action, then about four
+ miles from the two ships; at forty minutes after five, they
+ passed within hail of each other, and hauled by the wind on the
+ starboard tack, hauled up their courses, and prepared to receive
+ us: at forty-five minutes past five, they made all sail close
+ hauled by the wind, in hopes of getting to the windward of us; at
+ fifty-five minutes past five, 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
+ from each other. At six P.M. having them under command of our
+ battery, hoisted our colours, which was answered by both ships
+ hoisting English ensigns. At five minutes past six, ranged up on
+ the starboard side of the sternmost ship, about 300 yards
+ distant, and commenced the action by broadsides, both ships
+ returning our fire with the greatest spirit for about fifteen
+ minutes, then the fire of the enemy beginning to slacken, and
+ the great column of smoke collected under our lee, induced (p. 248)
+ us to cease our fire to ascertain their positions and conditions.
+ In about three minutes the smoke clearing away, we found
+ ourselves abreast of the headmost ship, the sternmost ship
+ luffing up for our larboard quarter; we poured a broadside into
+ the headmost ship, and then braced aback our main and mizzen
+ topsails, and backed astern under cover of the smoke, abreast the
+ sternmost ship, when the action was continued with spirit and
+ considerable effect until 35 minutes past 6, when the enemy's
+ fire again slackened, and we discovered the headmost bearing up;
+ filled our topsails, shot ahead, and gave her two stern rakes. We
+ then discovered the sternmost ship wearing also; wore ship
+ immediately after her, and gave her a stern rake, she luffing to
+ on our starboard bow and giving us her larboard broadside. We
+ ranged upon her larboard quarter, within hail, and were about to
+ give her our starboard broadside, when she struck her colours,
+ fired a lee gun and yielded. At fifty minutes past six took
+ possession of His Britannic Majesty's ship Cyane, Captain Gordon
+ Falcon, mounting 34 guns. At 8 P.M. filled away after her
+ consort, which was still in sight to leeward. At half-past eight
+ found her standing towards us, with her starboard tacks close
+ hauled, with top-gallant sails set and colours flying. At 50
+ minutes past 8 ranged close alongside to windward of her, on
+ opposite tacks, and exchanged broadsides; wore immediately under
+ her stern, and raked her with a broadside. She then crowded all
+ sail and endeavoured to escape by running, hauled on board our
+ tacks, set spanker and flying-jib in chase. At half-past 9
+ commenced firing on her from our starboard bow chaser; gave her
+ several shot, which cut her spars and rigging considerably. At 10
+ P.M. finding they could not escape, fired a gun, struck her
+ colours, and yielded. We immediately took possession of His
+ Britannic Majesty's ship Levant, Hon. Captain George Douglas,
+ mounting 21 guns. At 1 A.M. the damages of our rigging were
+ repaired, sails shifted, and the ship in fighting condition.
+
+
+
+No. 48. (p. 249)
+PLATE XLIX.
+
+
+_March 23, 1815._
+
+ The Congress of the U. S. to Capt. James Biddle, etc. [Rx].
+ Capture of the British ship Penguin by the U. S. ship Hornet.
+
+CAPTAIN JAMES BIDDLE.
+
+[_Capture of the Penguin._]
+
+THE CONGRESS OF THE U. S. (_United States_) TO CAPT. (_Captain_) JAMES
+BIDDLE. FOR HIS GALLANTRY GOOD CONDUCT AND SERVICES. Bust of Captain
+Biddle, in uniform, facing the right FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+CAPTURE OF THE BRITISH SHIP PENGUIN BY THE U. S. (_United States_)
+SHIP HORNET. Naval action between the United States sloop-of-war
+Hornet, of eighteen guns, Captain Biddle, and the British sloop-of-war
+Penguin, of nineteen guns, Captain Dickenson. The Hornet, to
+windward, is raking the Penguin. The British vessel has lost her
+main-top-gallant-mast In the distance the peak of Tristan d'Acunha.
+Exergue: OFF TRISTAN D'ACUNHA MARCH XXIII MDCCCXV. On the platform,
+FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+JAMES BIDDLE was born in Philadelphia, February 28, 1783. He entered
+the navy as a midshipman in 1800, and went to the Mediterranean with
+Captain Bainbridge. He was wrecked in the Philadelphia, and was a
+prisoner in Tripoli for nearly two years; was a lieutenant in 1807,
+and first lieutenant of the Wasp in 1812, when she captured the
+Frolic. For his conduct on this occasion he was promoted to the rank
+of master-commandant. While in command of the sloop-of-war Hornet he
+captured the British sloop-of-war Penguin, Captain Dickenson, March
+23, 1815, receiving for this gallant deed the thanks of Congress and a
+gold medal. He became a captain in the same year, and commanded (p. 250)
+the Mediterranean squadron, 1830-1832. He was governor of the Naval
+Asylum in Philadelphia, 1838-1842; commanded the East India squadron,
+1845, and was on the west coast of Mexico during the Mexican war. He
+died in Philadelphia, October 1, 1848.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captain Biddle, etc._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States be, and he is hereby, requested to
+ present to Captain James Biddle, of the sloop of war Hornet, a
+ gold medal, with suitable emblems and devices, and a silver
+ medal,[107] with suitable emblems and devices, to each
+ commissioned officer of the said sloop of war, in testimony of
+ the high sense entertained by Congress, of the gallantry, good
+ conduct, and services of Captain Biddle, his officers and crew,
+ in capturing the British sloop of war Penguin, after a brave and
+ skilful combat.
+
+ [Footnote 107: The silver medals are copies of the
+ one in gold to Captain Biddle.]
+
+ Approved February 22, 1816.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Biddle to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ To the Honourable United States sloop Hornet,
+ SECRETARY OF THE NAVY, Off Tristan D'Acunha, March 25th, 1815.
+ Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour to inform you, that on the morning of the
+ 23d instant, at half past ten, when about to anchor off the north
+ end of the island of Tristan d'Acunha, a sail was seen to the
+ southward and eastward, steering to the westward, the wind fresh
+ from the S. S. W. In a few minutes she had passed on to the
+ westward, so that we could not see her for the land. I
+ immediately made sail for the westward, and shortly after getting
+ in sight of her again, perceived her to bear up before the wind.
+ I hove to for him to come down to us. When she had approached
+ near, I filled the main-topsail, and continued to yaw the ship,
+ while she continued to come down, wearing occasionally to prevent
+ her passing under our stern. At 1.40 P.M. being within nearly
+ musket shot distance, she hauled her wind on the starboard tack,
+ hoisted English colours and fired a gun. We immediately luffed
+ to, hoisted our ensign and gave the enemy a broadside. The action
+ being thus commenced, a quick and well directed fire was (p. 251)
+ kept up from this ship, the enemy gradually driving near to
+ us, when at 1.05 minutes 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 every officer and man repaired to the
+ quarterdeck, where 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 greatly superior both in quickness and
+ effect. The enemy's bowsprit came in between our main and mizzen
+ rigging, on our starboard side, affording him an opportunity to
+ board us, if such was his design, but no attempt was made. There
+ was a considerable swell on, and as the sea lifted us ahead, the
+ enemy's boom carried away our mizzen shrouds, stern davits, and
+ spanker boom, and he hung upon our larboard quarter. At this
+ moment an officer, who was afterwards recognized to be Mr.
+ M'Donald, the first lieutenant, 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 taffrail asking
+ if they had surrendered, I received a wound in the neck. The
+ enemy had just then got clear of us, and his fore-mast and
+ bowsprit being both gone, and perceiving us wearing to give a
+ fresh broadside, 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 after having
+ surrendered. From the firing of the first gun, to the last time
+ the enemy cried out he had surrendered, was exactly 22 minutes by
+ the watch. She proved to be His Britannic Majesty's sloop of war
+ Penguin, mounting six 32 pound carronades, two long 12's, a 12
+ pound carronade on the top-gallant fore-castle, with swivels on
+ the capstern in the tops. She had a spare port forward, so as to
+ fight both her long guns a side. She sailed from England in
+ September last. She was shorter upon deck than this ship, by two
+ feet, but she had a greater length of keel, greater breadth of
+ beam, thicker sides, and higher bulwarks than this ship, and was
+ in all respects a remarkably fine vessel of her class. The enemy
+ acknowledge a complement of 132, 12 of them supernumerary marines
+ from the Medway 74, received on board in consequence of their
+ being ordered to cruise for the American privateer Young Wasp.
+ They acknowledge, also, a loss of 14 killed and 28 wounded; but
+ Mr. Mayo, who was in charge of the prize, assures me that the
+ number of killed was certainly greater. Among the killed is
+ Captain Dickenson, who fell at the close of the action, and the
+ boatswain; among the wounded is the second lieutenant, purser,
+ and two midshipmen. Each of the midshipmen lost a leg. We
+ received on board, in all, 118 prisoners, four of whom have since
+ died of their wounds. Having removed the prisoners, and taken on
+ board such provisions and stores as would be useful to us, I
+ scuttled the Penguin this morning, before daylight, and she went
+ down. As she was completely riddled by our shot, her foremast and
+ bowsprit both gone, and her main-mast so crippled as to be
+ incapable of being secured, it seemed unadvisable, at this
+ distance from home, to attempt sending her to the United States.
+
+ This ship did not receive a single round shot in her hull, nor
+ any material wound in her spars; the rigging and sails were very
+ much cut; but having bent a new suit of sails and knotted and
+ secured our rigging, we are now completely ready, in all (p. 252)
+ respects, for any service. We were eight men short of complement,
+ and had nine upon the sick list the morning of the action.
+
+ Enclosed is a list of killed and wounded. I lament to state that
+ Lieutenant Conner is wounded dangerously. I feel great solicitude
+ on his account, as he is an officer of much promise, and his loss
+ would be a serious loss to the service.
+
+ It is a most pleasing part of my duty to acquaint you that the
+ conduct of Lieutenants Conner and Newton, Mr. Mayo,
+ Acting-Lieutenant Brownlow, of the marines, sailing master
+ Romney, and other officers, seamen, and marines I have the honour
+ to command, was in the highest degree creditable to them, and
+ calls for my warmest recommendation. I cannot, indeed, do justice
+ to their merits. The satisfaction which was diffused throughout
+ the ship when it was ascertained that the stranger was an enemy's
+ sloop of war, and the alacrity with which every one repaired to
+ quarters, fully assured me that their conduct in the action would
+ be marked with coolness and intrepidity.
+
+ The loss on board the Hornet, was 1 killed and 11 wounded.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ J. BIDDLE.
+
+
+
+No. 49. (p. 253)
+PLATE L.
+
+
+_March 4, 1817--March 4, 1825._
+
+ James Monroe President of the U. S. A. D. 1817. [Rx]. Peace and
+ friendship.
+
+PRESIDENT JAMES MONROE.
+
+[_Fifth President of the United States of America._]
+
+JAMES MONROE PRESIDENT OF THE U. S. (_United States_) A. D. (_Anno
+Domini: The year of our Lord_) 1817. Bust of President Monroe, facing
+the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP. Two hands clasped in token of amity; on the cuff
+of the left wrist three stripes, and buttons with the American eagle
+on them; the other wrist bare; above the hands, a calumet and a
+tomahawk crossed--Indian emblems of peace and war.
+
+
+JAMES MONROE was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia, April 28,
+1758. He was educated at William and Mary College, Virginia, served
+with distinction in the revolutionary war from 1776 to 1778; was
+member of the Virginia Assembly, 1782; delegate to Congress,
+1783-1786; senator of the United States, 1790-1794; minister to
+France, 1794-1796; governor of Virginia, 1799-1802; was sent on a
+special mission to France for the acquisition of Louisiana, 1802; was
+minister to England, 1803-1808; and to Spain, 1805; governor of
+Virginia, 1810; secretary of State under President Madison, 1811-1817;
+acting secretary of War, 1814-1815; President of the United States
+(first term), 1817-1821; (second term), 1821-1825. He died in the city
+of New York, July 4, 1831, on the fifty-fifth anniversary of the
+Independence of the United States.
+
+
+
+No. 50. (p. 254)
+PLATE LI.
+
+
+_October 5, 1813._
+
+ Major General William H. Harrison. [Rx]. Resolution of Congress
+ April 4. 1818.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON.
+
+[_Victory of the Thames._]
+
+MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM H. (_Henry_) HARRISON. Bust of General Harrison,
+in uniform, facing the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS APRIL 4, 1818. America, personified as a
+maiden, with a spear in her right hand and resting on the American
+shield, places with her left a crown of laurel on a trophy formed of
+the arms of the enemy, on which hangs a buckler, with the inscription
+FORT MEIGS BATTLE OF THE THAMES. Exergue: BATTLE OF THE THAMES OCTOBER
+5. 1813. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON was born in Berkeley, Charles City County,
+Virginia, February 9, 1773. He entered the army as ensign in 1791;
+served in the north-west against the Indians, under General St. Clair,
+and afterward under General Wayne, to whom he was aid-de-camp; became
+captain in 1795; resigned in 1797; was appointed secretary of the
+North-west territory, and was its delegate in Congress, 1799. He was
+governor of the territory of Indiana, 1801-1813; defeated Tecumseh at
+Tippecanoe, November 7, 1811; was made brigadier-general and commander
+of the North-west territory in 1812, major-general in 1813; gallantly
+defended Fort Meigs, and defeated the British army at the battle of
+the Thames, October 5, 1813, for which victory Congress gave him a
+vote of thanks and a gold medal. He resigned his commission shortly
+afterwards. Was a member of Congress from Ohio, 1816-1819; Ohio State
+senator, 1819-1824; United States senator, 1825-1828, and (p. 255)
+President of the United States, March 4, 1841. He died in the White
+House, Washington, on April 4, one month after his inauguration. He
+was known in the West by the sobriquet of "Old Tippecanoe." No
+presidential medal of him was struck.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to General Harrison and
+Governor Shelby, etc._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ thanks of Congress be, and they are hereby, presented to
+ Major-General William Henry Harrison, and Isaac Shelby, late
+ Governor of Kentucky, and, through them, to the officers and men
+ under their command, for their gallantry and good conduct in
+ defeating the combined British and Indian forces under
+ Major-General Proctor, on the Thames, in Upper Canada, on the
+ fifth day of October, one thousand eight hundred and thirteen,
+ capturing the British army, with their baggage, camp equipage and
+ artillery; and that the President of the United States be
+ requested to cause two gold medals to be struck, emblematical of
+ this triumph, and presented to General Harrison and Isaac Shelby,
+ late Governor of Kentucky.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to present to Colonel Richard M. Johnson a sword, as a testimony
+ of the high sense entertained by Congress of the daring and
+ distinguished valour displayed by himself and the regiment of
+ volunteers under his command, in charging and essentially
+ contributing to vanquish the combined British and Indian forces
+ under Major-General Proctor, on the Thames, in Upper Canada, on
+ the fifth day of October, one thousand eight hundred and
+ thirteen.
+
+ Approved April 4, 1818.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Harrison to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To Headquarters, near Moravian Town,
+ GENERAL JOHN ARMSTRONG, On the river Thames,
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. 80 miles from Detroit,
+ October 5, 1813.
+
+ Sir: I have the honour to inform you that, by the blessing of
+ Providence, the army under my command has obtained a complete
+ victory over the combined Indian and British forces under (p. 256)
+ the command of General Proctor. I believe that nearly the
+ whole of the enemy's regulars are taken or killed. Amongst the
+ former are all the superior officers, excepting General Proctor.
+ My mounted men are now in pursuit of him. Our loss is very
+ trifling. The brave Colonel R. M. Johnson is the only officer
+ whom I have heard of that is wounded, he badly, but I hope not
+ dangerously.
+
+ I have the honour to be, &c.,
+ William H. HARRISON.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Harrison to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To
+ GENERAL JOHN ARMSTRONG, Head Quarters, Detroit,
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. October 9th, 1813.
+
+ Sir: In my last letter from Sandwich, of the 30th ultimo, I did
+ myself the honour to inform you, that I was preparing to pursue
+ the enemy on the following day. From various causes, however, I
+ was unable to put the troops in motion until the morning of the
+ 2d instant, and then to take with me only about 140 of the
+ regular troops, Johnson's mounted regiment, and such of Governor
+ Shelby's volunteers as were fit for a rapid march, the whole
+ amounting to about 3500 men. To General M'Arthur, with about 700
+ effectives, the protection of this place, and the sick, was
+ committed. General Cass's brigade, and the corps of
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Ball, were left at Sandwich, with orders to
+ follow me as soon as the men received their knapsacks and
+ blankets, which had been left on an island in Lake Erie.
+
+ The unavoidable delay at Sandwich was attended with no
+ disadvantage to us. General Proctor had posted himself at
+ Dalson's, on the right bank of the river Thames (or French),
+ fifty-six miles from this place, where I was informed he intended
+ to fortify and to receive me. He must have believed, however,
+ that I had no disposition to follow him, or that he had secured
+ my continuance here, by the reports that were circulated that the
+ Indians would attack and destroy this place, upon the advance of
+ the army, as he neglected the breaking up of the bridges until
+ the night of the 2d instant. On the night our army reached the
+ river, which is 25 miles from Sandwich, and is one of four
+ streams crossing our route, over all of which are bridges, and
+ being deep and muddy, are unfordable for a considerable distance
+ into the country. The bridge here was found entire, and in the
+ morning I proceeded with Johnson's regiment, to save, if
+ possible, the others. At the second bridge, over a branch of the
+ river Thames, we were fortunate enough to capture a lieutenant of
+ dragoons and 11 privates, who had been sent by General Proctor to
+ destroy them. From the prisoners I learned that the third bridge
+ was broken up, and that the enemy had no certain information of
+ our advance. The bridge, having been imperfectly destroyed, was
+ soon repaired, and the army encamped at Drake's farm, four miles
+ below Dalson's.
+
+ The river Thames, along the banks of which our route lay, is a
+ fine deep stream, navigable for vessels of considerable burthen,
+ after the passage of the bar at its mouth, over which there is
+ six and a half feet water.
+
+ The baggage of the army was brought from Detroit in boats, (p. 257)
+ protected by three gun-boats, which Commodore Perry had
+ furnished for the purpose, as well as to cover the passage of the
+ army over the Thames itself, or the mouth of its tributary
+ streams; the banks being low, and the country generally open
+ (prairies), as high as Dalson's, these vessels were well
+ calculated for the purpose. Above Dalson's, however, the
+ character of the river and adjacent country, is considerably
+ changed. The former, though still deep, is very narrow, and its
+ banks high and woody. The commodore and myself, therefore, agreed
+ upon the propriety of leaving the boats under a guard of 150
+ infantry, and I determined to trust to fortune, and the bravery
+ of my troops, to effect the passage of the river. Below a place
+ called Chatham, and four miles above Dalson's, is the third
+ fordable branch of the Thames. The bridge over its mouth had been
+ taken up by the Indians, as well as at M'Gregor's Mills, one mile
+ above. Several hundred of the Indians remained to dispute our
+ passage, and, upon the arrival of the advanced guard, commenced a
+ heavy fire from the opposite bank of the creek, as well as that
+ of the river. Believing that the whole force of the enemy was
+ there, I halted the army formed in order of battle, and brought
+ up our two six-pounders to cover the party that were ordered to
+ repair the bridge, and cross the troops. Colonel Johnson's
+ mounted regiment, being upon the right of the army, had seized
+ the remains of the bridge at the mills, under a heavy fire from
+ the Indians. Our loss, upon this occasion, was two killed and
+ three or four wounded; that of the enemy was ascertained to be
+ considerably greater. A house near the bridge, containing a very
+ considerable number of muskets, had been set on fire; but it was
+ extinguished by our troops, and the arms saved. At the first farm
+ above the bridge, we found one of the enemy's vessels on fire,
+ loaded with arms and ordnance stores, and learned that they were
+ a few miles ahead of us, still on the right bank of the river,
+ with the great body of Indians. At Bowles's farm, four miles from
+ the bridge, we halted for the night, found two other vessels, and
+ a large distillery, filled with ordnance and other valuable
+ stores, to an immense amount, in flames. It was impossible to put
+ out the fire; two twenty-four pounders, with their carriages,
+ were taken, and a large quantity of ball and shells of various
+ sizes. The army was put in motion early on the morning of the
+ 5th. I pushed on, in advance, with the mounted regiment, and
+ requested Governor Shelby to follow, as expeditiously as
+ possible, with the infantry. The governor's zeal, and that of his
+ men, enabled them to keep up with the cavalry, and by 9 o'clock,
+ we were at Arnold's mills, having taken, in the course of the
+ morning, two gun-boats and several bateaux, loaded with
+ provisions and ammunition.
+
+ A rapid at the river at Arnold's mills affords the only fording
+ to be met with for a very considerable distance; but, upon
+ examination, it was found too deep for the infantry. Having,
+ however, fortunately taken two or three boats and some canoes, on
+ the spot, and obliging the horsemen to take a footman behind
+ each, the whole were safely crossed by 12 o'clock. Eight miles
+ from the crossing we passed a farm where a part of the British
+ troops had encamped the night before, under the command of
+ Colonel Warburton. The detachment with General Proctor had
+ arrived the day before at the Moravian towns, four miles higher
+ up. Being now certainly near the enemy, I directed the advance of
+ Johnson's regiment to accelerate their march, for the purpose of
+ procuring intelligence. The officer commanding it, in a short
+ time, sent to inform me that his progress was stopped by (p. 258)
+ the enemy, who were formed across our line of march. One of
+ the enemy's wagoners being also taken prisoner, from the
+ information received from him, and my own observation, assisted
+ by some of my officers, I soon ascertained enough of their
+ position, and order of battle, to determine that which it was
+ proper for me to adopt.
+
+ I have the honour herewith to enclose you my general order of the
+ 27th ultimo, prescribing the order of march and of battle when
+ the whole army should act together. But as the number and
+ description of the troops had been essentially changed since the
+ issuing of the order, it became necessary to make a corresponding
+ alteration in their disposition. From the place where our army
+ was last halted, to the Moravian towns, a distance of about three
+ and a half miles, the road passes through a beech forest without
+ any clearing, and for the first two miles near to the bank of the
+ river. At from two to three hundred yards from the river a swamp
+ extends parallel to it throughout the whole distance. The
+ intermediate ground is dry, and although the trees are tolerably
+ thick, it is in many places clear of underbrush. Across this
+ strip of land, its left _appuyed_ upon the river, supported by
+ artillery placed in the wood, their right in the swamp covered by
+ the whole of their Indian force, the British troops were drawn
+ up.
+
+ The troops at my disposal consisted of about one hundred and
+ twenty regulars of the 27th regiment, five brigades of Kentucky
+ volunteer militia infantry under his excellency Governor Shelby,
+ averaging less than five hundred men, and Colonel Johnson's
+ regiment of mounted infantry, making in the whole an aggregate
+ something above 3000. No disposition of an army opposed to an
+ Indian force can be safe, unless it is secured on the flanks and
+ in the rear. I had therefore no difficulty in arranging the
+ infantry conformably to my general order of battle. General
+ Trotter's brigade of 500 men formed the front line, his right
+ upon the road and his left upon the swamp. General King's brigade
+ as a second line, 150 yards in the rear of Trotter's, and
+ Childs's brigade, as a corps of reserve, in the rear of it. These
+ three brigades formed the command of Major-General Henry; the
+ whole of General Desha's division, consisting of two brigades,
+ were formed _en potence_ upon the left of Trotter.
+
+ While I was engaged in forming the infantry, I had directed
+ Colonel Johnson's regiment, which was still in front, to be
+ formed in two lines opposite to the enemy, and upon the advance
+ of the infantry, to take ground to the left, and forming upon
+ that flank, to endeavour to turn the right of the Indians. A
+ moment's reflection, however, convinced me, that from the
+ thickness of the woods and swampiness of the ground, they would
+ be unable to do anything on horseback, and there was no time to
+ dismount them and place their horses in security; I therefore
+ determined to refuse my left to the Indians, and to break the
+ British lines at once by a charge of the mounted infantry; the
+ measure was not sanctioned by any thing I had seen or heard of,
+ but I was fully convinced that it would succeed. The American
+ backwoodsmen ride better in the woods than any other people. A
+ musket or rifle is no impediment to them, being accustomed to
+ carry them on horseback from their earliest youth. I was
+ persuaded, too, that the enemy would be quite unprepared for the
+ shock, and that they could not resist it. Conformably to this
+ idea, I directed the regiment to be drawn up in close column, (p. 259)
+ with its right at the distance of fifty yards from the road
+ (that it might be, in some measure, protected by the trees
+ from the artillery), its left upon the swamp, and to charge, at
+ full speed, as soon as the enemy delivered their fire. The few
+ regular troops of the 27th regiment, under the command of their
+ colonel (Paul), occupied, in column of sections of four, the
+ small space between the road and the river, for the purpose of
+ seizing the enemy's artillery, and some ten or twelve friendly
+ Indians were directed to move under the bank. The crotchet,
+ formed by the front line and General Desha's division was an
+ important point. At that place the venerable governor of Kentucky
+ was posted, who, at the age of sixty-six, preserves all the
+ vigour of youth, the ardent zeal which distinguished him in the
+ Revolutionary war, and the undaunted bravery which he manifested
+ at King's Mountain. With my aids-de-camp, the acting Assistant
+ Adjutant-General, Captain Buttler, my gallant friend Commodore
+ Perry, who did me the honour to serve as my volunteer
+ aid-de-camp, and Brigadier-General Cass, who, having no command,
+ tendered me his assistance, I placed myself at the head of the
+ front line of infantry, to direct the movements of the cavalry
+ and give them the necessary support. The army had moved on this
+ order but a short distance, when the mounted men received the
+ fire of the British line, and were ordered to charge; the horses
+ in the front of the column recoiled from the fire; another was
+ given by the enemy, and our column, at length getting into
+ motion, broke through the enemy with irresistible force. In one
+ minute the contest in front was over. The British officers seeing
+ no hopes of reducing their disordered ranks to order, and our
+ mounted men wheeling upon them and pouring in a destructive fire,
+ immediately surrendered. It is certain that three only of our
+ troops were wounded in this charge. Upon the left, however, the
+ contest was more severe with the Indians. Colonel Johnson, who
+ commanded on that flank of his regiment, received a most galling
+ fire from them, which was returned with great effect. The Indians
+ still further to the right advanced and fell in with our front
+ line of infantry, near its junction with Desha's division, and,
+ for a moment, made an impression on it. His Excellency, Governor
+ Shelby, however, brought up a regiment to its support, and the
+ enemy, receiving a severe fire in front, and a part of Johnson's
+ regiment having gained their rear, retreated with precipitation.
+ Their loss was very considerable in the action and many were
+ killed in their retreat.
+
+ I can give no satisfactory information of the number of Indians
+ that were in the action, but they must have been considerably
+ upwards of one thousand. From the documents in my possession
+ (General Proctor's official letters, all of which were taken),
+ and from the information of respectable inhabitants of this
+ territory, the Indians, kept in pay by the British, were much
+ more numerous than has been generally supposed. In a letter to
+ General de Rottenburg, of the 27th instant, General Proctor
+ speaks of having prevailed upon most of the Indians to accompany
+ him. Of these it is certain that fifty or sixty Wyandot warriors
+ abandoned him.
+
+ A British officer, of high rank, assured one of my aids-de-camp,
+ that on the day of our landing, General Proctor had at his
+ disposal upwards of three thousand Indian warriors, but asserted
+ that the greatest part had left him previous to the action.
+
+ The number of our troops was certainly greater than that of (p. 260)
+ the enemy, but when it is recollected that they had chosen a
+ position that effectually secured their flank, which it was
+ impossible for us to turn, and that we could not present to them
+ a line more extended than their own, it will not be considered
+ arrogant to claim for my troops the palm of superior bravery.
+
+ In communicating to the President, through you, Sir, my opinion
+ of the conduct of the officers who served under my command, I am
+ at a loss how to mention that of Governor Shelby, being convinced
+ that no eulogium of mine can reach his merits. The governor of an
+ independent State, greatly my superior in years, in experience
+ and in military character, he placed himself under my command,
+ and was not more remarkable for his zeal and activity, than for
+ the promptitude and cheerfulness with which he obeyed my orders.
+ The Major-Generals Henry and Desha, and the Brigadiers Allen,
+ Caldwell, King, Childs, and Trotter, all of the Kentucky
+ volunteers, manifested great zeal and activity. Of Governor
+ Shelby's staff, his adjutant-general, Colonel Walker, rendered
+ great service, as did his aids-de-camp, General Adair, and Majors
+ Barry and Crittenden. The military skill of the former was of
+ great service to us, and the activity of the two latter gentlemen
+ could not be surpassed. Illness deprived me of the talents of my
+ adjutant-general, Colonel Gaines, who was left at Sandwich. His
+ duties were, however, ably performed by the acting assistant
+ adjutant-general, Captain Buttler. My aids-de-camp, Lieutenant
+ O'Fallon and Captain Todd, of the line, and my volunteer aids,
+ John Speed Smith and John Chambers, Esquires, have rendered me
+ the most important services from the opening of the campaign. I
+ have already stated that General Cass and Commodore Perry
+ assisted me in forming the troops for the action. The former is
+ an officer of the highest merit, and the appearance of the brave
+ commodore cheered and animated every breast.
+
+ It would be useless, Sir, after stating the circumstances of the
+ action, to pass encomiums upon Colonel Johnson and his regiment.
+ Veterans could not have manifested more firmness. The colonel's
+ numerous wounds prove that he was in the post of danger.
+ Lieutenant-Colonel James Johnson, and the Majors Payne and
+ Thompson were equally active though more fortunate. Major Wood of
+ the engineers, already distinguished by his conduct at Fort
+ Meigs, attended the army with two six-pounders. Having no use for
+ them in the action, he joined in the pursuit of the enemy, and
+ with Major Payne, of the mounted regiment, two of my
+ aids-de-camp, Todd and Chambers, and three privates, continued it
+ for several miles after the rest of the troops had halted, and
+ made many prisoners.
+
+ I left the army before an official return of the prisoners, or
+ that of the killed and wounded, was made out. It was however
+ ascertained that the former amounts to 601 regulars, including 25
+ officers. Our loss is 7 killed and 22 wounded, 5 of which have
+ since died. Of the British troops 12 were killed and 22 wounded.
+ The Indians suffered most, 33 of them having been found upon the
+ ground, besides those killed on the retreat.
+
+ On the day of the action, six pieces of brass artillery were
+ taken, and two iron 24 pounders the day before. Several others
+ were discovered in the river, and can be easily procured. Of the
+ brass pieces, three are the trophies of our revolutionary war,
+ that were taken at Saratoga and York, and surrendered by General
+ Hull. The number of small arms taken by us and destroyed (p. 261)
+ by the enemy, must amount to upwards of 5000; most of them had
+ been ours and taken by the enemy at the surrender of Detroit, at
+ the river Raisin, and at Colonel Dudley's defeat. I believe that
+ the enemy retain no other military trophy of their victories than
+ the standard of the 4th regiment; they were not magnanimous
+ enough to bring that of the 4th regiment into the field, or it
+ would have been taken.
+
+ You have been informed, Sir, of the conduct of the troops under
+ my command in action; it gives me great pleasure to inform you,
+ that they merit also the approbation of their country for their
+ conduct, in submitting to the greatest privations with the utmost
+ cheerfulness.
+
+ The infantry were entirely without tents, and for several days
+ the whole army subsisted upon fresh beef, without bread or salt.
+
+ I have the honour to be, etc.,
+ William H. HARRISON.
+
+ P.S. General Proctor escaped by the fleetness of his horses,
+ escorted by 40 dragoons and a number of mounted Indians.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Orders of Debarkation, of March, and of Battle._
+
+ Head Quarters, on Board
+ the United States schooner Ariel,
+ September 27, 1813.
+
+ As it is the intention of the general to land the army on the
+ enemy's coast, the following will be order of debarkation, of
+ march, and of battle:
+
+ The right wing of the army will be composed of the Kentucky
+ volunteers, under the command of His Excellency, Governor Shelby,
+ acting as major-general. The left wing, of the light corps of
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Ball, and the brigades of Generals M'Arthur
+ and Cass. The arrangement is made with a view to the localities
+ of the ground upon which the troops are to act and the
+ composition of the enemy's force, and is calculated, in marching
+ up the lake or straight, to place our regular troops in the open
+ ground on the lake, where they will probably be opposed by the
+ British regulars, and the Kentucky volunteers in the woods, which
+ it is presumed will be occupied by the enemy's militia and the
+ Indians. When the signal is given for putting to the shore, the
+ corps of Lieutenant-Colonel Ball will precede the left wing: the
+ regiment of volunteer riflemen the right wing: these corps will
+ land with the utmost celerity, consistent with the preservation
+ of good order, and as soon as landed will seize the most
+ favourable position of annoying the enemy and covering the
+ disembarkation of the troops of the line. General Cass's brigade
+ will follow Colonel Ball's corps, and General Calmes the
+ volunteer riflemen. The regiments will land and form in
+ succession upon those which precede them. The right wing, with
+ its left in front, displaying to the right; and the left wing,
+ with its right in front, displaying to the left. The brigades of
+ Generals King, Allen, and Caldwell will form successively to the
+ right of General Calmes. General M'Arthur and Child's (p. 262)
+ brigades will form the reserve. The general will command in
+ person the right brigades of Generals Cass and Calmes, assisted
+ by Major-General Henry. His Excellency, Governor Shelby, will
+ have the immediate command of three brigades on the right,
+ assisted by Major-General Desha. As soon as the troops are
+ disembarked, the boats are to be immediately sent back to the
+ fleet. It will be observed that the order of landing here
+ prescribed is somewhat that of direct eschelons deployed into
+ line upon the advanced corps of the right and left wing. It is
+ the intention of the general, however, that all the troops which
+ are provided with boats should land in as quick succession as
+ possible; and the general officers in command towards the
+ extremities of the line, are authorized to deviate from the
+ arrangement to counteract any movement of the enemy, by landing
+ any part of their commands, previously to the formation of the
+ corps, which is herein directed to precede them. The corps of
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Ball and the volunteer rifle regiment will
+ maintain the position they occupy on landing, until the troops of
+ the line are formed to support them; they will then retire
+ through the intervals of the line, or to the flanks, and form in
+ the rear of the line.
+
+ A detachment of artillery, with a six, four and three-pounder and
+ howitzer, will land with the advanced light corps; the rest of
+ the artillery will be held in reserve, and landed at such point
+ as Major Wood may direct.
+
+ The point of landing for the reserve, under Brigadier-General
+ M'Arthur, cannot now be designated; it will be made to support
+ any point of the line which may require aid, or be formed on the
+ flanks, as circumstances may render necessary. The arrangement
+ for landing the troops will be made entirely under the direction
+ of an officer of the navy, whom Commodore Perry has been so
+ obliging as to offer for that purpose. The debarkation of the
+ troops will be covered by the cannon of the vessels. The troops
+ being landed, and the enemy driven off, or not opposing the
+ landing, the army will change its front to the left, and form in
+ order of battle in the following manner: The two brigades of
+ regular troops, and two of the volunteers, to be formed in two
+ lines at right angles to the shore of the lake. General
+ M'Arthur's brigade and Calmes' to form the front line, and Cass's
+ and Childs's the second line; the regular troops still on the
+ left; that flank of both lines, resting on the shore; the
+ distance between the two lines will be 300 yards. The remaining
+ three brigades of volunteers will be drawn up in a single line of
+ two ranks, at right angles to the line of march, its head upon
+ the right of the front line, forming a crotchet (_en potence_)
+ with that line, and extending beyond the second line. The corps
+ of Lieutenant-Colonel Ball will form the advance of the left
+ wing, at the distance of 300 yards, the regiment of rifle
+ volunteers the advance of the right wing, at the same distance.
+
+ Some light pieces of artillery will be placed in the road leading
+ up the lake, and at such other points as Major Wood may direct.
+ When the order is given for marching, the first and second lines
+ will advance by files from the heads of companies; in other
+ words, these two lines will form two columns, marching by their
+ flanks by companies at entire distances. The three brigades on
+ the right flank will be faced to the left and marched forward;
+ the head of this column still forming en potence with the front
+ line. It is probable that the two brigades of the front line
+ will extend from the lake some distance into the woods, on (p. 263)
+ the right flank, and it is desirable it should be so; but
+ should it be otherwise, and the crotchet or angle be at any time
+ on the open ground, his excellency Governor Shelby will
+ immediately prolong the front line to the right, by adding to it
+ as many companies of the leading brigade of the flank column as
+ will bring the angle, and consequently the flank column itself,
+ completely within the woods. It is to be presumed that the enemy
+ will make their attack upon the army in its march, that their
+ regular troops will form their right upon the lake, their militia
+ occupy the ground between the regulars and the woods, and the
+ Indians the woods. The formation herein prescribed is intended to
+ resist an arrangement of this kind. Should the general's
+ conjecture on that subject prove correct, as it must be evident
+ that the right of the enemy cannot be turned, and on that wing
+ his best troops must be placed, it will be proper to refuse him
+ our left, and direct our principal effort to uncover the flank of
+ his regulars by driving off his militia. In the event supposed,
+ therefore, it will be proper to bring up a part or the whole of
+ General Cass's brigade, to assist the charge made by General
+ Calmes, or that the former should change positions with the
+ brigade of volunteers in the second line. Should the general
+ think it safe to order the whole of Cass's brigade to the right,
+ without replacing it with another, General Cass will march to the
+ right, formed in oblique eschelons of companies. It will be the
+ business of General M'Arthur, in the event of his wing being
+ refused to watch the motions of the enemy, with the assistance of
+ the artillery, to prevent his front line at least from
+ interrupting the progress of our right. Should the enemy's
+ militia be defeated, the brigade of ours in advance will
+ immediately wheel upon the flank of the British regulars, and
+ General M'Arthur will advance to attack them in front. In the
+ mean time, his excellency Governor Shelby can use the brigade in
+ reserve of the second line to prolong the flank line from its
+ front or left, or to reinforce any weak part of the line. In all
+ cases where troops in advance are obliged to retire through those
+ who are advancing to support them, it will be done by companies
+ in files, which will retire through the intervals of the
+ advancing line, and will immediately form in rear. The light
+ troops will be particularly governed by this direction.
+
+ The disposition of the troops on the right flank is such as the
+ commanding general thinks best calculated to resist an attack
+ from Indians, which is only to be expected from that quarter. His
+ excellency Governor Shelby will, however, use his discretion in
+ making any alteration which his experience and judgment may
+ dictate. Lieutenant-Colonel Ball, Lieutenant-Colonel Simral, and
+ the general officers commanding on the flank line, are to send
+ out small detachments in advance of the two former corps, and to
+ the flank of the latter. Should they discover the enemy in force,
+ immediately notice will be sent to the head of the lines. The
+ general commanding on the spot will immediately order the signals
+ for forming in order of battle, which will be the beat "_to
+ arms_."
+
+ All signals will be immediately repeated by all the drums of the
+ line; the signal for the whole to halt, is the retreat. Drums
+ will be distributed along the heads of companies, and the taps
+ occasionally given to regulate their march.
+
+ Lieutenant-Colonels Ball and Simral are to keep the general
+ constantly advised of the discoveries made by the advanced
+ parties. Where it shall become necessary for the corps of (p. 264)
+ Ball and Simral to retire, they will form on the flank or in
+ the rear of Generals M'Arthur and Calmes's brigades, and receive
+ the orders of the brigadiers respectively.
+
+ Brigadier-General Cass will designate such officers as he may
+ deem proper, to assist Captain Elliott, of the navy, in the
+ arrangement of the troops. The general will be the signal for the
+ whole to move. By command,
+
+ Edmund P. GAINES, _Col. Adj. Gen._
+
+
+
+No. 51. (p. 265)
+PLATE LII.
+
+
+_October 5, 1813._
+
+ Governor Isaac Shelby. [Rx]. Battle of the Thames. Octo. 5. 1813.
+
+GOVERNOR ISAAC SHELBY.
+
+[_Victory of the Thames._]
+
+GOVERNOR ISAAC SHELBY. Bust of Governor Shelby in a general's uniform,
+facing the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+BATTLE OF THE THAMES. OCTO. (_October_) 5. 1813. The battle of the
+Thames; in the background, a forest; in the foreground, the mounted
+riflemen are charging the enemy. Exergue: RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS APRIL
+4. 1818. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).[108]
+
+ [Footnote 108: The resolution of Congress voting
+ this medal and the official reports of the Battle
+ of the Thames are given under No. 50, page 254.]
+
+
+ISAAC SHELBY was born in Hagerstown, Maryland, December 11, 1750. He
+served in the South throughout the Revolutionary War, rose to the rank
+of colonel, and displayed great gallantry in the battle of King's
+Mountain, October 7, 1780, for which he received a sword of honor and
+thanks from the Legislature of North Carolina. He was governor of
+Kentucky, 1792-1796, and 1812-1816; he joined General Harrison with
+four thousand Kentucky volunteers, and distinguished himself in the
+battle of the Thames, October 5, 1813, for which victory Congress gave
+him a vote of thanks and a gold medal. He declined to be secretary of
+War in 1817, and died in Lincoln County, Kentucky, July 18, 1826.
+
+
+
+No. 52. (p. 266)
+PLATE LIII.
+
+
+_June 24, 1822._
+
+ Lvdovicvs. XVIII Franc. et. Nav. rex. [Rx]. Gallia. et. America.
+ foederata.
+
+TREATY OF COMMERCE WITH FRANCE.
+
+LVDOVICVS. XVIII FRANC. ET. NAV. REX. (_Ludovicus XVIII. Franciae et
+Navarrae rex: Louis XVIII, King of France and Navarre._) Bust of Louis
+the Eighteenth, facing the right DE PUYMAURIN DIREXIT[109]
+(_directed_). On edge of bust, ANDRIEU. F. (_fecit_).
+
+ [Footnote 109: De Puymaurin was director of the
+ Paris Mint at the time this medal was struck.]
+
+GALLIA. ET. AMERICA. FOEDERATA. (_France and America allied._) France
+and America, personified as two female figures, standing, leaning on a
+column, on which is a bust of Mercury. France, beside whom is a shield
+bearing the three fleurs de lis, holds in her right hand a cornucopia,
+and America rests her left hand on the prow of a galley; on the face
+of the column is engraved: MDCCCXXII (1822). Exergue: NOVIS.
+COMMERCIORVM. PACTIS IVNCTAE (_United by new treaties of
+commerce._) GAYRARD. F. (_fecit_).[110]
+
+ [Footnote 110: See INTRODUCTION, pages x and
+ xxiii.]
+
+
+BERTRAND ANDRIEU was born in Bordeaux, France, in 1762. He studied
+first at the academy of Bordeaux, then with Lavaux. He came to Paris
+early in life. Among his principal medals are: the taking of the
+Bastille; the battle of Marengo; the passage of the St. Bernard; the
+baptism of the King of Rome; the head of the Emperor Napoleon; the
+head of the Empress Josephine; the head of the Empress Marie Louise;
+and the cathedral of Vienna. He also executed the obverse of the medal
+commemorating the treaty of commerce of 1822, between the United
+States of America and France. He died in Paris, December 10, 1822.
+
+
+RAYMOND GAYRARD was born at Rodez, France, in 1777. He (p. 267)
+volunteered and served in the army from 1796 to 1802; then studied
+under Launay and Jeoffroy, and first attracted attention by his
+medallions of the Emperor Napoleon and of the Archduchess Marie
+Louise, on the occasion of their marriage. Among his principal medals
+are: the visits to the mint of the Emperor of Austria, and of the King
+of Prussia; the second entrance of Louis XVIII. into Paris; the
+removal of the ashes of the Duke d'Enghien to the chapel at Vincennes;
+the triumphal entrance of the Duke d'Angouleme into Paris; the death
+of Louis XVIII.; and the accession to the throne of Charles X. He also
+engraved the reverse of the medal commemorating the treaty of commerce
+between the United States of America and France. He was distinguished
+also as a sculptor, and among his statues is one of the American
+Republic. He was engraver to King Louis XVIII. and Charles X., was
+decorated with the Legion of Honor in 1825, and received a medal of
+the 2d class for sculpture at the Exhibition of Fine Arts in 1814, and
+an honorable mention at the Universal Exhibition of 1855. He died in
+Paris, May 4, 1858.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Treaty with France, 1822._
+
+ _Convention of Navigation and Commerce between the United States
+ of America and His Majesty the King of France and Navarre,
+ concluded June 24, 1822; ratifications exchanged February 12,
+ 1823; proclaimed February 12, 1823._
+
+ The United States of America and His Majesty the King of France
+ and Navarre, being desirous of settling the relations of
+ navigation and commerce between their respective nations, by a
+ temporary convention reciprocally beneficial and satisfactory,
+ and thereby of leading to a more permanent and comprehensive
+ arrangement, have respectively furnished their full powers in
+ manner following, that is to say,
+
+ The President of the United States to John Quincy Adams, their
+ Secretary of State, and His Most Christian Majesty to the Baron
+ Hyde de Neuville, Knight of the Royal and Military Order of St.
+ Louis, Commander of the Legion of Honour, Grand Cross of the
+ Royal American Order of Isabella the Catholic, his Envoy
+ Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary near the United
+ States; Who, after exchanging their full powers, have agreed (p. 268)
+ on the following articles:
+
+ ARTICLE I.
+
+ Articles of the growth, produce, or manufacture of the United
+ States, imported into France in vessels of the United States,
+ shall pay an additional duty, not exceeding twenty francs per ton
+ of merchandize, over and above the duties paid on the like
+ articles, also of the growth, produce, or manufacture of the
+ United States, when imported in French vessels.
+
+ ARTICLE II.
+
+ Articles of the growth, produce or manufacture of France,
+ imported into the United States in French vessels, shall pay an
+ additional duty, not exceeding three dollars and seventy-five
+ cents per ton of merchandize, over and above the duties collected
+ upon the like articles, also of the growth, produce or
+ manufacture of France, when imported in vessels of the United
+ States.
+
+ ARTICLE III.
+
+ No discriminating duty shall be levied upon the productions of
+ the soil or industry of France, imported in French bottoms into
+ the ports of the United States for transit or re-exportation; nor
+ shall any such duties be levied upon the productions of the soil
+ or industry of the United States, imported in vessels of the
+ United States into the ports of France for transit or
+ re-exportation.
+
+ ARTICLE IV.
+
+ The following quantities shall be considered as forming the ton
+ of merchandize for each of the articles hereinafter specified:
+
+ Wines: Four 61-gallon hogsheads, or 244 gallons of 231 cubic
+ inches, American measure.
+
+ Brandies, and all other liquids, 244 gallons.
+
+ Silks and all other dry goods, and all other articles usually
+ subject to measurement, forty-two cubic feet French, in France,
+ and fifty cubic feet American measure in the United States.
+
+ Cotton: 804lbs. avoirdupois, or 365 kilogrammes.
+
+ Tobacco: 1600lbs. avoirdupois, or 725 kilogrammes.
+
+ Ashes, pot and pearl: 2240lbs. avoirdupois, or 1016 kilogrammes.
+
+ Rice: 1600lbs. avoirdupois, or 725 kilogrammes, and for all
+ weighable articles, not specified, 2240lbs. avoirdupois, or 1016
+ kilogrammes.
+
+ ARTICLE V.
+
+ The duties of tonnage, light money, pilotage, port charges,
+ brokerage, and all other duties upon foreign shipping, over and
+ above those paid by the national shipping in the two countries
+ respectively, other than those specified in articles 1 and 2 of
+ the present convention, shall not exceed in France, for vessels
+ of the United States, five francs per ton of the vessel's
+ American register; nor for vessels of France in the United
+ States, ninety four cents per ton of the vessel's French
+ passport.
+
+ ARTICLE VI.
+
+ The contracting parties, wishing to favour their mutual commerce,
+ by affording in their ports every necessary assistance to their
+ respective vessels, have agreed that the consuls and (p. 269)
+ vice-consuls may cause to be arrested the sailors, being part of
+ the crews of the vessels of their respective nations, who shall
+ have deserted from the said vessels, in order to send them back
+ and transport them out of the country. For which purpose the said
+ consuls and vice-consuls shall address themselves to the courts,
+ judges, and officers competent, and shall demand the said
+ deserters in writing, proving by an exhibition of the registers
+ of the vessel, or ship's roll, or other official documents, that
+ those men were part of the said crews; and on this demand, so
+ proved, (saving however where the contrary is proved,) the
+ delivery shall not be refused; and there shall be given all aid
+ and assistance to the said consuls and vice-consuls for the
+ search, seizure, and arrest of the said deserters, who shall even
+ be detained and kept in the prisons of the country, at their
+ request and expense, until they shall have found an opportunity
+ of sending them back. But if they be not sent back within three
+ months, to be counted from the day of their arrest, they shall be
+ set at liberty, and shall be no more arrested for the same cause.
+
+ ARTICLE VII.
+
+ The present temporary convention shall be in force for two years
+ from the first day of October next, and even after the expiration
+ of that term, until the conclusion of a definitive treaty, or
+ until one of the parties shall have declared its intention to
+ renounce it, which declaration shall be made at least six months
+ beforehand.
+
+ And in case the present arrangement should remain without such
+ declaration of its discontinuance by either party, the extra
+ duties specified in the 1st and 2d articles shall, from the
+ expiration of the said two years, be, on both sides, diminished
+ by one-fourth of their whole amount, and, afterwards by
+ one-fourth of the said amount from year to year, so long as
+ neither party shall have declared the intention of renouncing it
+ as above stated.
+
+ ARTICLE VIII.
+
+ The present convention shall be ratified on both sides, and the
+ ratifications shall be exchanged within one year from the date
+ hereof, or sooner, if possible. But the execution of the said
+ convention shall commence in both countries on the first of
+ October next, and shall be effective, even in case of
+ non-ratification, for all such vessels as may have sailed bona
+ fide for the ports of either nation, in the confidence of its
+ being in force.
+
+ In faith whereof, the respective Plenipotentiaries have signed
+ the present convention, and have hereto affixed their seals, at
+ the city of Washington, this 24th day of June, A. D. 1822.
+
+ John QUINCY ADAMS [l.s.]
+ G. HYDE DE NEUVILLE [l.s.]
+
+ SEPARATE ARTICLE.
+
+ The extra duties levied on either side before the present day, by
+ virtue of the act of Congress of 15th May, 1820, and of the
+ ordinance of 26th July of the same year, and others confirmative
+ thereof, and which have not already been paid back, shall be
+ refunded.
+
+ Signed and sealed as above, this 24th day of June, 1822.
+
+ John QUINCY ADAMS [l.s.]
+ G. HYDE DE NEUVILLE [l.s.]
+
+
+
+No. 53. (p. 270)
+PLATE LIV.
+
+
+_March 4, 1825--March 4, 1829._
+
+ John Quincy Adams President of the United States 1825. [Rx].
+ Peace and friendship.
+
+PRESIDENT JOHN QUINCY ADAMS.
+
+[_Sixth President of the United States of America._]
+
+JOHN QUINCY ADAMS PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES 1825. Bust of
+President John Quincy Adams, facing the right.
+
+PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP. Two hands clasped in token of amity; on the cuff
+of the left wrist three stripes, and buttons with the American eagle
+on them; the other wrist bare; above the hands, a calumet and a
+tomahawk crossed--Indian emblems of peace and war.
+
+The obverse of this medal, though not signed, was engraved by Fuerst.
+
+
+JOHN QUINCY ADAMS, son of President John Adams, was born in
+Braintree, now Quincy, Massachusetts, July 11, 1767. He spent several
+years of his early life in Europe with his father; was graduated at
+Harvard College, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 1787; was admitted to the
+bar in 1791, and settled in Boston; was minister to Holland, England,
+and Prussia, 1794-1801; United States senator, 1803-1808; minister to
+Russia, 1809-1814; one of the negotiators of the treaty of Ghent,
+1814; secretary of State under President Monroe, 1817-1825; President
+of the United States, 1825-1829; representative in Congress,
+1831-1848. He died in the Capitol in Washington, February 23, 1848.
+
+
+
+No. 54. (p. 271)
+PLATE LV.
+
+
+_March 4, 1829--March 4, 1837._
+
+ Andrew Jackson President of the United States A.D. 1829. [Rx].
+ Peace and friendship.
+
+PRESIDENT ANDREW JACKSON.
+
+[_Seventh President of the United States of America._]
+
+ANDREW JACKSON PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES A. D. (_Anno Domini: The
+year of our Lord_), 1829. Bust of President Jackson, facing the right.
+FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP. Two hands clasped in token of amity; on the cuff
+of the left wrist three stripes and buttons with the American eagle on
+them; the other wrist bare; above the hands, a calumet and tomahawk
+crossed--Indian emblems of peace and war.
+
+
+
+No. 55. (p. 272)
+PLATE LVI.
+
+
+_August 2, 1813._
+
+ Presented by Congress to Colonel George Croghan 1835. [Rx]. Pars
+ magna fuit.
+
+COLONEL GEORGE CROGHAN.
+
+[_Defence of Fort Stephenson._]
+
+PRESENTED BY CONGRESS TO COLONEL GEORGE CROGHAN 1835. Bust of Colonel
+Croghan, in uniform, facing the right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+In a pendant: PARS MAGNA FUIT[111] (_His share was great._) Major
+Croghan is defending, with one hundred and sixty men, Fort Stephenson
+against the attack of the British army, one thousand strong. In the
+background, three gunboats on Lake Erie. Exergue: SANDUSKY 2; AUGUST
+1813. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+ [Footnote 111: Virgil, AEneid, Book II, 6.]
+
+As this medal was not voted by Congress until 1835, it is placed here
+according to the chronological order adopted.
+
+
+GEORGE CROGHAN was born near Louisville, Kentucky, November 15, 1791.
+He was graduated at William and Mary College, Virginia, and in 1811
+was aid-de-camp to Colonel Boyd at the battle of Tippecanoe; captain
+in 1812, major in 1813, and aid-de-camp to General Harrison at Fort
+Meigs. On August 3, 1813, with a garrison of one hundred and sixty
+men, he repulsed General Proctor at the head of an army of one
+thousand British troops and Indians. For this gallant deed Congress,
+in 1835, gave him a vote of thanks and a gold medal. In 1814 he was
+appointed lieutenant-colonel; resigned in 1817; was promoted to the
+rank of inspector-general and colonel in 1825; served under General
+Taylor in Mexico, and died in New Orleans, January 8, 1849.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 273)
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to Colonel Croghan, etc._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States be requested to cause a gold medal
+ to be struck, with suitable emblems and devices, and presented to
+ Colonel Croghan, in testimony of the high sense entertained by
+ Congress of his gallantry and good conduct in the defence of Fort
+ Stephenson; and that he present a sword to each of the following
+ officers engaged in that affair: to Captain James Hunter, to the
+ eldest male representative of Lieutenant Benjamin Johnston, and
+ to Lieutenant Cyrus A. Baylor, John Meek, Ensign Joseph Duncan,
+ and the nearest male representative of Ensign Edmund Shipp,
+ deceased.
+
+ Approved February 13, 1835.
+
+ _____
+
+_Major Croghan to General Harrison._
+
+ To
+ MAJOR-GENERAL HARRISON, Lower Sandusky, August 5th, 1813.
+ Commanding Northwestern Army.
+
+ Dear Sir: I have the honour to inform you that the combined force
+ of the enemy, amounting to at least 500 regulars, and seven or
+ eight hundred Indians, under the immediate command of General
+ Proctor, made its appearance before this place early on Sunday
+ evening last, and so soon as the general had made such
+ disposition of his troops as would cut off my retreat, should I
+ be disposed to make one, he sent Colonel Elliott, accompanied by
+ Major Chambers, with a flag to demand the surrender of the fort,
+ as he was anxious to spare the effusion of blood, which he should
+ probably not have it in his power to do should he be reduced to
+ the necessity of taking the place by storm. My answer to the
+ summons was, that I was determined to defend the place to the
+ last extremity, and that no force, however large, should induce
+ me to surrender it. So soon as the flag had returned, a brisk
+ fire was opened upon us from the gunboats in the river, and from
+ a five and a half inch howitzer on shore, which was kept up with
+ little intermission through the night. At an early hour the next
+ morning, three sixes (which had been placed during the night
+ within 250 yards of the pickets) began to play upon us, but with
+ little effect. About 4 o'clock P.M., discovering that the fire
+ from all his guns was concentrated against the northwestern angle
+ of the fort, I became confident that his object was to make a
+ breach, and attempt to storm the works at that point. I therefore
+ ordered out as many men as could be employed for the purpose of
+ strengthening that front, which was so effectually secured by
+ means of bags of flour, sand, &c., that the picketing suffered
+ little or no injury. Notwithstanding which, the enemy, about 5
+ o'clock, having formed in close column, advancing to assail our
+ works at the expected point, at the same time making two feints
+ at the front of Captain Hunter's line, the column which advanced
+ against the north-western angle, consisting of about 350 men, (p. 274)
+ was so completely enveloped in smoke as not to be discovered
+ until it had approached within fifteen or twenty paces of the
+ lines; but the men being all at their posts and ready to receive
+ it, commenced so heavy and galling a fire as to throw the column
+ a little into confusion. Being quickly rallied, it advanced to
+ the outer works and began to leap into the ditch. Just at that
+ moment a fire of grape was opened from our six pounder (which had
+ been previously arranged so as to rake in that direction), which,
+ together with the musketry, threw them into such confusion, that
+ they were compelled to retire precipitately to the woods. During
+ the assault, which lasted about half an hour, an incessant fire
+ was kept up by the enemy's artillery (which consisted of five
+ sixes and a howitzer), but without effect. My whole loss during
+ the siege, was one killed and seven wounded slightly. The loss of
+ the enemy in killed, wounded, and prisoners, must exceed one
+ hundred and fifty; one lieutenant-colonel, a lieutenant and fifty
+ rank and file, were found in and about the ditch, those of the
+ remainder, who were not able to escape, were taken off during the
+ night by the Indians. Seventy stand of arms and several brace of
+ pistols have been collected near the work. About three in the
+ morning the enemy sailed down the river, leaving behind them a
+ boat, containing clothing and considerable military stores. Too
+ much praise cannot be bestowed on the officers, non-commissioned
+ officers, and privates under my command for their gallantry and
+ good conduct during the siege.
+
+ Yours, with respect,
+ G. CROGHAN,
+ _Major 17th U. S. Infantry comdg. L. S._
+
+
+
+No. 56. (p. 275)
+PLATE LVII.
+
+
+_March 4, 1837--March 4, 1841._
+
+ Martin Van Buren President of the United States A. D. 1837. [Rx].
+ Peace and friendship.
+
+PRESIDENT MARTIN VAN BUREN.
+
+[_Eighth President of the United States of America._]
+
+MARTIN VAN BUREN PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES A. D. (_Anno Domini:
+The year of our Lord_) 1837. Bust of President Van Buren, facing the
+right. FUeRST. F. (_fecit_).
+
+PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP. Two hands clasped in token of amity; on the cuff
+of the left wrist three stripes, and buttons with the American eagle
+on them; the other wrist bare; above the hands, a calumet and tomahawk
+crossed--Indian emblems of peace and war.
+
+
+MARTIN VAN BUREN was born at Kinderhook, Columbia County, New York,
+December 5, 1782. He received his early education at a common school;
+was admitted to the bar in the city of New York, 1803; State senator,
+1812; attorney-general of New York, 1815; United States senator,
+1821-1828; governor of New York, 1828; secretary of State to President
+Jackson, 1829-1831; appointed minister to England, 1831, but was not
+confirmed by the Senate; vice-president of the United States,
+1833-1837; President of the United States, 1837-1841. He was an
+unsuccessful candidate for the Presidency in 1848. He died at
+Kinderhook, July 24, 1862.
+
+
+
+No. 57. (p. 276)
+PLATE LVIII.
+
+
+_April 4, 1841--March 4, 1845._
+
+ John Tyler, President of the United States. 1841. [Rx]. Peace and
+ friendship.
+
+PRESIDENT JOHN TYLER.
+
+[_Tenth[112] President of the United States of America._]
+
+ [Footnote 112: General Harrison, the ninth
+ President, died one month after his inauguration,
+ and no Indian peace medal of him was struck.]
+
+JOHN TYLER, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES 1841. Bust of President
+Tyler, facing the left.
+
+PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP. Two hands clasped in token of amity; on the cuff
+of the left wrist three stripes, and buttons with the American eagle
+on them; the other wrist bare; above the hands, a calumet and tomahawk
+crossed--Indian emblems of peace and war.
+
+This medal bears no signature. Below are given the only documents
+relating to it which could be obtained.
+
+
+JOHN TYLER was born in Charles City County, Virginia, March 29, 1790.
+He was graduated at William and Mary College, Virginia, 1807; and was
+admitted to the bar, 1809. He was a member of the State Legislature,
+1811-1816; member of Congress, 1816-1821; member of the State
+Legislature, 1823-1825; governor of Virginia, 1825-1827; United States
+senator, 1827-1836; vice-president of the United States, March 4,
+1841, and President, on the death of General Harrison (April 4), (p. 277)
+1841-1845. He took part with the South during the Civil War, and
+was a member of the Confederate Congress. He died in Richmond, January
+17, 1862.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_R. M. Patterson to J. C. Spencer._
+
+ To the Honorable
+ J. C. SPENCER, Mint of the United States,
+ Secretary of War. November 2, 1841.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter
+ of the 28th ult., and am gratified to see the interest which you
+ take in the subject of our American Medals.
+
+ The Military Medals of which we have the dies, are now in the
+ course of execution, in compliance with your request. Among them
+ is included the Medal voted, in 1777, to General Gates, of which
+ the dies were given, by the family, through Colonel Burr, to our
+ former chief coiner, Mr. Eckfeldt.
+
+ Electrotype copies of the other Medals, properly mounted, could
+ be furnished at two dollars each. We have already the means of
+ making the following: Washington--Boston, 1776; Colonel
+ Howard--Cowpens, 1781; General Greene, 1781: Alliance with
+ France, 1777-1781[113]; Colonel Washington--Cowpens, 1781.
+
+ The dies for the Indian Medals, bearing the heads of the
+ successive Presidents, have heretofore been cut by artists in
+ this country; the earlier ones by Reich, the later by Fuerst. One
+ of these is dead, and the other in Europe.
+
+ I now propose, with your approbation, to pursue a different
+ course, and to dispense entirely with the services of the die
+ sinker. For this purpose, a medallion likeness of the President
+ must be modeled in wax or clay, on a table of four inches in
+ diameter, and I understand that an artist at Washington, named
+ Chapman, is competent to this work. A plaster cast from this
+ model is used as a pattern for a casting in fine iron, which can
+ be executed by Babbit at Boston, as well as at the celebrated
+ foundries at Berlin. This casting is then placed in an instrument
+ called a _portrait lathe_ (of which we have a very perfect one at
+ the Mint, which I caused to be made at Paris), and reduced
+ fac-similes of it are turned by the lathe, thus preparing for us
+ the dies which we need.
+
+ The advantages offered by this mode of operating are manifest. A
+ model made on a large scale in relief, and in plastic material,
+ can hardly fail to be more perfect than a head sunk originally on
+ a die of steel. I accordingly anticipate from this process a more
+ perfect set of dies, than any we have yet made. But it is not an
+ untried experiment which I propose to make. I send you herewith,
+ a medal of Franklin executed by us here, entirely by this process.
+ The original was a medallion likeness of Franklin in burnt (p. 278)
+ clay. All the rest was a purely mechanical operation, (the work
+ being, in fact, done by a steam engine), except a little
+ retouching, and the impression of the letters.
+
+ The proposed method presents the advantage of greater economy.
+ The last Indian Medal dies, which were the cheapest we have had
+ made, cost $1,160; Mr. Peale, our chief coiner, is willing to
+ undertake the execution of those for President Tyler, for $800.
+
+ The Medals for President Van Buren were begun, and in fact
+ completed, in anticipation of the necessary appropriation by
+ Congress, and I would suggest to you, whether the same course
+ would not be desirable now.
+
+ I present the following estimate, for the appropriation to be
+ asked:
+
+ For furnishing
+ three head dies........................... $800.00
+ For preparing, striking, ringing, etc.,
+ 60 of the largest Medals at $2.37 each..... 142.20
+ For 200 of the two smaller sizes at
+ $1.37 each................................. 274.00
+ Fine silver used for the Medals.............. 1,000.00
+ Contingencies.................................. 283.80
+ ---------
+ $2,500.00
+
+ [Footnote 113: The Libertas Americana medal.]
+
+ It may perhaps be judged proper to introduce Indian Medals of
+ President Harrison into the series.
+
+ In this case, the estimate need not be doubled, for it is not to
+ be supposed that many more _Medals_ would be wanted. I should
+ suppose that an additional appropriation of $1000 would be
+ sufficient. I may remark, however, that Washington is not in the
+ series of Indian Medals, and that Harrison, like Washington, is
+ in the series of those voted by Congress to our successful
+ military commanders.
+
+ I wait your instructions, which I shall execute with great
+ pleasure.
+
+ Very respectfully, your faithful servant,
+ R. M. PATTERSON, _Director_.
+
+ _____
+
+_J. C. Spencer to R. M. Patterson._
+
+ To
+ DOCTOR R. M. PATTERSON, Department of War.
+ Director of the Mint, Washington, Nov. 13, 1841.
+ Philadelphia, Penn.
+
+ Sir: I have had the pleasure to receive your letter of the 2d
+ instant, respecting the means of procuring the dies for Medals
+ bearing the likeness of President Tyler. The advantages of the
+ mode you propose are sufficiently attested by the execution of
+ the Medal accompanying your letter, and, in accordance with your
+ suggestions, measures have been adopted to have a medallion
+ likeness of the President taken, the execution of which has been
+ entrusted to Mr. Pettrich, whose merit as an artist cannot be
+ unknown to you.
+
+ Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ J. C. SPENCER.
+
+ _____
+
+_R. M. Patterson to John C. Spencer._ (p. 279)
+
+ To the Honorable
+ John C. SPENCER, Mint, U.S.
+ Secretary of War. September 17, 1842.
+
+ Sir: Permit me to ask whether an appropriation was made at the
+ late session of Congress for defraying the expense of making a
+ set of medals bearing the head of the President, to be given to
+ Indian chiefs, as has been the custom heretofore. In consequence
+ of our former correspondence on this subject, you are aware that
+ some steps have already been taken for accomplishing this object.
+ Let me inquire of you whether the work is to go forward.
+
+ R. M. PATTERSON, _Director_.
+
+ _____
+
+_D. Parker to R. M. Patterson._
+
+ R. M. PATTERSON, Esq., War Department.
+ Director of the Mint, Washington, D. C., Sep. 21, 1842.
+ Philadelphia.
+
+ Sir: In answer to your letter of the 17th instant, in the absence
+ of the Secretary of War, I have to state that $2,500 was
+ appropriated during the last session of Congress for making
+ medals bearing the head of the President, to be given to Indian
+ chiefs. Of this $50 was paid to Mr. Pettrich, and a requisition
+ has this day been made in your favor for $1,500, which the
+ Treasury Department is requested to remit to you as early as
+ practicable.
+
+ Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ D. PARKER, _Chief Clerk_.
+
+
+
+No. 58. (p. 280)
+PLATE LIX.
+
+
+_March 4, 1845--March 4, 1849._
+
+ James K. Polk, President of the United States, 1845. [Rx]. Peace
+ and friendship.
+
+PRESIDENT JAMES KNOX POLK.
+
+[_Eleventh President of the United States of America._]
+
+JAMES K (_Knox_) POLK PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. 1845. Bust of
+President Polk, facing the left.
+
+PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP. Two hands clasped in token of amity; on the cuff
+of the left wrist three stripes, and buttons with the American eagle
+on them; the other wrist bare; above the hands, a calumet and tomahawk
+crossed--Indian emblems of peace and war.
+
+The obverse of this medal, though not signed, was made by Franklin
+Peale, as may be seen by the following extract from a despatch of R.
+M. Patterson, director of the Mint, to William Medill, commissioner of
+Indian Affairs, and dated Philadelphia, June 15, 1846. "The Indian
+medals, with the head of President Polk, being nearly finished by our
+chief coiner, Mr. Peale, etc."
+
+
+JAMES KNOX POLK was born in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina,
+November 2, 1795. He was graduated at the University of North
+Carolina, 1818; was admitted to the bar in Nashville, Tennessee, 1820;
+member of the State Legislature, 1823-1825; member of Congress,
+1825-1839; speaker of the House of Representatives of the United
+States, 1835-1839; governor of Tennessee, 1839-1841; President of the
+United States, 1845-1849. He died in Nashville, June 15, 1849.
+
+
+
+No. 59. (p. 281)
+PLATE LX.
+
+
+_May 8 and 9, 1846._
+
+ Major General Zachary Taylor. [Rx]. Resolution of Congress, July
+ 16th, 1846, etc.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ZACHARY TAYLOR.
+
+[_Victories on the Rio Grande._]
+
+MAJOR GENERAL ZACHARY TAYLOR. Bust of General Taylor, in uniform,
+facing the right.
+
+Within a wreath of laurel and palm inclosing a serpent biting its
+tail--emblem of immortality through glory and victory: RESOLUTION OF
+CONGRESS JULY 16{TH} 1846. PALO ALTO MAY 8{TH} 1846 RESACA DE LA PALMA
+MAY 9{TH} 1846.[114]
+
+ [Footnote 114: See INTRODUCTION, pages xxiv and
+ xxv.]
+
+
+ZACHARY TAYLOR was born in Orange County, Virginia, September 24,
+1784. His father soon after removed to a plantation near Louisville,
+Kentucky, where young Taylor passed the early years of his life. He
+entered the army as first lieutenant of infantry, 1808; was captain,
+1810; distinguished himself by his defence of Fort Harrison, on the
+Wabash river, against the Indians led by Tecumseh, September 5, 1812,
+for which he was breveted major; full major, 1814; lieutenant-colonel,
+1819; colonel, 1832. He served during all this period against the
+Indians on the north-west frontier; he was ordered to Florida in 1836,
+and won the battle of Okechobee against the Seminoles, December 25,
+1837, for which he was made brigadier-general by brevet and
+commander-in-chief in Florida, 1838; commander of the first division
+in the south-west in 1840, in which year he removed from Kentucky to
+Louisiana, where he bought a plantation near Baton Rouge. Appointed
+commander of the army of occupation in Texas, July, 1845, he defeated
+the Mexican armies in battle at Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma, May
+8 and 9, 1846; at Monterey, September 24, same year; and at Buena
+Vista, February 22 and 23, 1847. For these victories Congress gave
+him a vote of thanks and three gold medals.[115] He was made (p. 282)
+major-general, June 29, 1846; became President of the United States,
+March 5, 1849, and died at the White House in Washington, July 9,
+1850. His soldiers gave him the sobriquet of "Old Rough and Ready."
+
+ [Footnote 115: See Nos. 60, page 290, and 63, page
+ 336.]
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to General Taylor._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and the House of
+ Representatives of the United States of America in Congress
+ assembled_: That the thanks of Congress are due, and are hereby
+ tendered to Major-General Zachary Taylor, commanding the army of
+ occupation, his officers and men, for the fortitude, skill,
+ enterprise, and courage, which have distinguished the recent
+ brilliant operations on the Rio Grande.
+
+ SECTION 2. _And be it further resolved_, That Congress sincerely
+ sympathize with the relatives and friends of the officers and
+ soldiers of the army of the United States who so bravely fell in
+ the service of their country on the Rio Grande.
+
+ SECTION 3. _And be it further resolved_, That the President of
+ the United States be requested to cause the foregoing resolutions
+ to be communicated to General Taylor, and through him to the army
+ under his command.
+
+ SECTION 4. _And be it further resolved_, That the President of
+ the United States be authorized and requested to have a medal of
+ gold procured, with appropriate devices and inscriptions thereon,
+ and presented to General Taylor, in the name of the Republic, as
+ a tribute to his good conduct, valor, and generosity to the
+ vanquished.
+
+ Approved July 16, 1846.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Taylor to the Adjutant-General of the Army._
+
+ To Headquarters, Army of Occupation,
+ THE ADJUTANT-GENERAL OF THE ARMY, Camp at Palo Alto, Texas,
+ Washington, D. C. May 9, 1846.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to report that I was met near this place
+ yesterday, on my march from Point Isabel, by the Mexican forces,
+ and, after an action of about five hours, dislodged them from
+ their position and encamped upon the field. Our artillery
+ consisting of two eighteen-pounders and two light batteries, was
+ the arm chiefly engaged, and to the excellent manner in which it
+ was manoeuvred and served is our success mainly due.
+
+ The strength of the enemy is believed to have been about (p. 283)
+ 6000 men, with seven pieces of artillery and 800 cavalry. His
+ loss is probably at least one hundred killed. Our strength did
+ not exceed, all told, twenty-three hundred, while our loss was
+ comparatively trifling: four men killed, three officers and
+ thirty-seven men wounded, several of the latter mortally. I
+ regret to say that Major Ringgold, 2d Artillery, and Captain
+ Page, 4th Infantry, are severely wounded. Lieutenant Luther, 2d
+ Artillery, slightly so.
+
+ The enemy has fallen back, and it is believed has repassed the
+ river. I have advanced parties now thrown forward in his
+ direction, and shall move the main body immediately.
+
+ In the haste of this report, I can only say that the officers and
+ men behaved in the most admirable manner throughout the action. I
+ shall have the pleasure of making a more detailed report when
+ those of the different commanders shall be received.
+
+ I am, Sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ Z. TAYLOR,
+ _Brevet Brigadier-General U. S. A._, _commanding_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Taylor to the Adjutant-General of the Army._
+
+ Head-Quarters, Army of Occupation,
+ Camp at Resaca de la Palma, 3 miles from Matamoros,
+ To 10 o'clock P.M., May 9, 1846.
+ THE ADJUTANT-GENERAL OF THE ARMY,
+ Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to report that I marched with the main body
+ of the army at two o'clock to-day, having previously thrown
+ forward a body of light infantry into the forest, which covers
+ the Matamoros road. When near the spot where I am now encamped,
+ my advance discovered that a ravine crossing the road had been
+ occupied by the enemy with artillery. I immediately ordered a
+ battery of field artillery to sweep the position, flanking and
+ sustaining it by the 3d, 4th, and 5th regiments, deployed as
+ skirmishers to the right and left. A heavy fire of artillery and
+ of musketry was kept up for some time, until finally the enemy's
+ batteries were carried in succession by a squadron of dragoons
+ and the regiments of infantry that were on the ground. He was
+ soon driven from his position, and pursued by a squadron of
+ dragoons, battalion of artillery, 3d Infantry, and a light
+ battery, to the river. Our victory has been complete. Eight
+ pieces of artillery, with a great quantity of ammunition, three
+ standards, and some one hundred prisoners have been taken; among
+ the latter, General La Vega, and several other officers. One
+ general is understood to have been killed. The enemy has
+ recrossed the river, and I am sure will not again molest us on
+ this bank.
+
+ The loss of the enemy in killed has been most severe. Our (p. 284)
+ own has been very heavy, and I deeply regret to report that
+ Lieutenant Inge, 2d Dragoons, Lieutenant Cochrane, 4th Infantry,
+ and Lieutenant Chadbourne, 8th Infantry, were killed on the
+ field. Lieutenant-Colonel Payne, 4th Artillery,
+ Lieutenant-Colonel McIntosh, Lieutenant Dobbins, 3d Infantry;
+ Captain Hoe and Lieutenant Fowler, 5th Infantry; and Captain
+ Montgomery, Lieutenants Gates, Selden, McClay, Burbank, and
+ Jordan, 8th Infantry, were wounded. The extent of our loss in
+ killed and wounded is not yet ascertained, and is reserved for a
+ more detailed report.
+
+ The affair of to-day may be regarded as a proper supplement to
+ the cannonade of yesterday; and the two taken together, exhibit
+ the coolness and gallantry of our officers and men in the most
+ favorable light. All have done their duty, and done it nobly. It
+ will be my pride, in a more circumstantial report of both
+ actions, to dwell upon particular instances of individual
+ distinction.
+
+ It affords me peculiar pleasure to report that the field-work
+ opposite Matamoros has sustained itself handsomely during a
+ cannonade and bombardment of 160 hours. But the pleasure is
+ alloyed with profound regret at the loss of its heroic and
+ indomitable commander, Major Brown, who died to-day from the
+ effect of a shell. His loss would be a severe one to the service
+ at any time, but to the army under my orders it is indeed
+ irreparable. One officer and one non-commissioned officer killed,
+ and ten men wounded, comprise all the casualties incident to this
+ severe bombardment.
+
+ I inadvertently omitted to mention the capture of a large number
+ of pack-mules left in the Mexican camp.
+
+ I am, Sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ Z. TAYLOR,
+ _Brevet Brigadier-General U. S. A._, _commanding_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Order Congratulating the Army._
+
+ Head Quarters, Army of Occupation,
+ Resaca de la Palma, May 11, 1846.
+
+ The commanding general congratulates the army under his command
+ upon the signal success which has crowned its recent operations
+ against the enemy. The coolness and steadiness of the troops
+ during the action of the 8th, and the brilliant impetuosity with
+ which the enemy's position and artillery were carried on the 9th,
+ have displayed the best qualities of the American soldier. To
+ every officer and soldier of his command, the general returns his
+ thanks for the noble manner in which they have sustained the
+ honor of the service and of the country. While the main body of
+ the army has been thus actively employed, the garrison left
+ opposite Matamoros has rendered no less distinguished service, by
+ sustaining a severe cannonade and bombardment for many successive
+ days. The army and the country, while justly rejoicing in this
+ triumph of our arms, will deplore the loss of many brave (p. 285)
+ officers and men who fell gallantly in the hour of combat.
+
+ It being necessary for the commanding general to visit Point
+ Isabel on public business, Colonel Twiggs will assume command of
+ the corps of the army near Matamoros, including the garrison of
+ the field-work. He will occupy the former lines of the army,
+ making such dispositions for defence and for the comfort of his
+ command as he may deem advisable. He will hold himself strictly
+ on the defensive until the return of the commanding general.
+
+ By order of Brig. Gen. Taylor.
+ W. W. BLISS, _Act. Adj. Gen._
+
+ _____
+
+_General Taylor to the Adjutant-General of the Army._
+
+ Head-Quarters, Army of Occupation,
+ To Camp near Matamoros, May 16, 1846.
+ THE ADJUTANT-GENERAL OF THE ARMY,
+ Washington, D. C.
+
+ "Sir: The main body of the Army of Occupation marched under my
+ immediate orders from Point Isabel on the evening of the 7th of
+ May, and bivouacked seven miles from that place.
+
+ "Our march was resumed the following morning. About noon, when
+ our advance of cavalry had reached the water-hole of 'Palo Alto,'
+ the Mexican troops were reported in our front, and were soon
+ discovered occupying the road in force. I ordered a halt upon
+ reaching the water, with a view to rest and refresh the men, and
+ to form deliberately our line of battle. The Mexican line was now
+ plainly visible across the prairie, and about three-quarters of a
+ mile distant. Their left, which was composed of a heavy force of
+ cavalry, occupied the road, resting upon a thicket of chapparal,
+ while masses of infantry were discovered in succession on the
+ right, greatly outnumbering our own force.
+
+ "Our line of battle was now formed in the following order,
+ commencing on the extreme right: 5th Infantry, commanded by
+ Lieutenant-Colonel M'Intosh; Major Ringgold's Artillery; 3d
+ Infantry, commanded by Captain L. N. Morris; two
+ eighteen-pounders, commanded by Lieutenant Churchill, 3d
+ Artillery; 4th Infantry, commanded by Major G. W. Allen; the 3d
+ and 4th regiments composed the Third Brigade, under command of
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Garland; and all the above corps, together
+ with two squadrons of dragoons, under Captains Ker and May,
+ composed the right wing, under the orders of Colonel Twiggs. The
+ left was formed by the battalion of artillery, commanded by
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Childs, Captain Duncan's Light Artillery, and
+ the Eighth Infantry, under Captain Montgomery; all forming the
+ First Brigade, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Belknap. The
+ train was parked near the water, under direction of Captains
+ Grossman and Myers, and protected by Captain Ker's squadron.
+
+ "About 2 o'clock, we took up the march, by heads of columns, in
+ the direction of the enemy, the eighteen-pounder battery
+ following the road. While the columns were advancing, (p. 286)
+ Lieutenant Blake, Topographical Engineer, volunteered a
+ reconnoissance of the enemy's line, which was handsomely
+ performed, and resulted in the discovery of at least tyro
+ batteries of artillery in the intervals of their cavalry and
+ infantry. These batteries were soon opened upon us, when I
+ ordered the columns halted and deployed into line, and the fire
+ to be returned by all our artillery. The Eighth Infantry, on our
+ extreme left, was thrown back to secure that flank. The first
+ fires of the enemy did little execution, while our
+ eighteen-pounders and Major Ringgold's artillery soon dispersed
+ the cavalry which formed his left. Captain Duncan's battery,
+ thrown forward in advance of the line, was doing good execution
+ at this time. Captain May's squadron was now detached to support
+ that battery and the left of our position. The Mexican cavalry
+ with two pieces of artillery were now reported to be moving
+ through the chapparal to our right to threaten that flank, or
+ make a demonstration against the train. The Fifth Infantry was
+ immediately detached to check this movement, and, supported by
+ Lieutenant Ridgely, with a section of Major Ringgold's battery
+ and Captain Walker's company of volunteers, effectually repulsed
+ the enemy, the Fifth Infantry repelling a charge of lancers, and
+ the artillery doing great execution in their ranks. The Third
+ Infantry was now detached to the right as a still further
+ security to that flank, yet threatened by the enemy. Major
+ Ringgold, with the remaining section, kept up his fire from an
+ advanced position, and was supported by the Fourth Infantry.
+
+ "The grass of the prairie had been accidentally fired by our
+ artillery, and the volumes of smoke now partially concealed the
+ armies from each other. As the enemy's left had evidently been
+ driven back, and left the road free, the cannonade having been
+ suspended, I ordered forward the eighteen-pounders on the road
+ nearly to the position first occupied by the Mexican cavalry, and
+ caused the First Brigade to take up a new position still on the
+ left of the eighteen-pounder battery. The Fifth was advanced from
+ its former position and occupied a point on the extreme right of
+ the new line. The enemy made a change of position corresponding
+ to our own, and after suspension of nearly an hour the action was
+ resumed.
+
+ "The fire of artillery was now most destructive; openings were
+ constantly made through the enemy's ranks by our fire, and the
+ constancy with which the Mexican infantry sustained this severe
+ cannonade was a theme of universal remark and admiration. Captain
+ May's squadron was detached to make a demonstration on the left
+ of the enemy's position, and suffered severely from the fire of
+ artillery to which it was for some time exposed.
+
+ "The Fourth Infantry, which had been ordered to support the
+ eighteen-pounder battery, was exposed to a most galling fire of
+ artillery, by which several men were killed, and Captain Page
+ dangerously wounded. The enemy's fire was directed against our
+ eighteen-pounder battery, and the guns under Major Ringgold in
+ its vicinity. The major himself, while coolly directing the fire
+ of his pieces, was struck by a cannon ball and mortally wounded.
+
+ "In the mean time, the Battalion of Artillery, under
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Childs, had been brought up to support the
+ artillery on our right. A strong demonstration of cavalry was now
+ made by the enemy against this part of our line, and the column
+ continued to advance under a severe fire from the eighteen-pounders.
+ The battalion was instantly formed in square, and held ready (p. 287)
+ ready to receive the charge of cavalry, but when the advancing
+ squadrons were within close range, a deadly fire of canister from
+ the eighteen-pounders dispersed them. A brisk fire of small-arms
+ was now opened upon the square, by which one officer, Lieutenant
+ Luther, 2d Artillery, was slightly wounded, but a well directed
+ volley from the front of the square silenced all further firing
+ from the enemy in this quarter. It was now nearly dark, and the
+ action was closed on the right of our line, the enemy having been
+ completely driven back from his position, and foiled in every
+ attempt against our line.
+
+ "While the above was going forward on our right, and under my own
+ eye, the enemy had made a serious attempt against the left of our
+ line. Captain Duncan instantly perceived the movement, and by a
+ bold and brilliant manoeuvring of his battery, completely
+ repulsed several successive efforts of the enemy to advance in
+ force upon our left flank. Supported in succession by the 8th
+ Infantry and Captain Ker's squadron of dragoons, he gallantly
+ held the enemy at bay, and finally drove him, with immense loss,
+ from the field. The action here and along the whole line
+ continued until dark, when the enemy retired into the chapparal
+ in rear of his position. Our army bivouacked on the ground it
+ occupied. During the afternoon the train had been moved forward
+ about half a mile, and was parked in rear of the new position.
+
+ "Our loss this day was nine killed, forty-four wounded, and two
+ missing. Among the wounded were Major Ringgold, who has since
+ died, and Captain Page dangerously wounded. Lieutenant Luther
+ slightly so.
+
+ "Our own force is shown by the field report to have been 177
+ officers and 2111 men: aggregate 2288. The Mexican force,
+ according to the statements of their own officers, was not less
+ than 6000 regular troops, with ten pieces of artillery, and
+ probably exceeded that number; the irregular force not known.
+ Their loss was not less than 200 killed and 400 wounded; probably
+ greater. This estimate is very moderate, and formed upon the
+ number actually counted upon the field, and upon the report of
+ their own officers.
+
+ "As already reported in my first brief despatch, the conduct of
+ our officers and men was everything that could be desired.
+ Exposed for hours to the severest trial, cannonade of artillery,
+ our troops displayed a coolness and constancy which gave me
+ throughout the assurance of victory.
+
+ "I am, Sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ Z. TAYLOR,
+ _Brevet Brigadier-General U.S.A._, _commanding_."
+
+ _____
+
+_The Secretary of War to Doctor Patterson._
+
+ To War Department,
+ DOCTOR R. M. PATTERSON, December 9th, 1846.
+ Director of the United States Mint, Philadelphia.
+
+ Sir: By a resolution of Congress, approved the 16th of July last,
+ the President is authorized and requested to have a medal of gold
+ procured, with appropriate devices and inscriptions thereon, (p. 288)
+ and presented to General Taylor. Preliminary arrangements are
+ being made to carry out the object of the resolution, and as soon
+ as a likeness of the general can be procured, the Department will
+ be prepared to place the design of the medal in the hands of the
+ die sinker. In the meantime it is desired to know whether the
+ work can be executed at the Mint, under your direction, and what
+ measures it may be necessary to take to insure a speedy
+ compliance with the resolution. May I request to be furnished
+ with your views on the subject, with such suggestions as may
+ facilitate the object contemplated.
+
+ Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ Wm. L. MARCY, _Secretary of War_.
+
+ _____
+
+_Doctor Patterson to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honorable
+ William L. MARCY, Mint of the United States,
+ Secretary of War. December 12, 1846.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter
+ of the 9th inst., regarding the execution of the Medal voted by
+ Congress to General Taylor, and asking me to present "my views on
+ the subject with such suggestions as may facilitate the object
+ contemplated."
+
+ I comply cheerfully with this request, and recommend the
+ following measures:
+
+ _First._ That a likeness of General Taylor be procured in
+ profile. A good daguerreotype would answer very well.
+
+ _Secondly._ That a medallion of the head and bust be made in wax,
+ on a plate of about four inches in diameter. Mr. Chapman, of New
+ York, would be competent to make it.
+
+ _Thirdly._ This being done, the remainder of the work required
+ for making the obverse die can be committed to Mr. Franklin
+ Peale, the chief coiner of the Mint. A cast is made from the
+ medallion in iron. This is used as a pattern, and a reduced copy
+ of it is cut in steel, by the action of an apparatus called a
+ portrait lathe, which we have in our possession here.
+
+ When the likeness is thus cut on the die, the legend is to be
+ struck in, and will consist, I presume, of the name and title,
+ MAJOR-GENERAL ZACHARY TAYLOR.
+
+ For the reverse, I would recommend that no emblematic design
+ should be attempted, but that it be composed of a wreath,
+ enclosing the words:
+
+ RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS
+ JULY 16, 1846.
+ PALO ALTO
+ MAY 8, 1846.
+ RESACA DE LA PALMA
+ MAY 9, 1846.
+
+ The medal awarded General Scott presents an example of that which
+ is now suggested.
+
+ For the dies thus described (hardened and polished complete), (p. 289)
+ Mr. Peale estimates the whole cost at $600.
+
+ For the gold medal the estimate is as follows:
+
+ 8 oz. fine gold at $20.67 $165.36
+ Striking and wastage 20.00
+ Case 5.00
+ -------
+ $190.36
+
+ Whole cost $790.36
+
+ May I venture to make another suggestion? It is, that besides the
+ medal of gold which is sent to General Taylor himself, there be a
+ large number of copies struck in bronze, to be distributed in
+ such manner as may be determined by the War Department.
+
+ In this case, it would be necessary to make _hubs_ for the
+ purpose of replacing the dies when injured.
+
+ Including this work Mr. Peale presents the following estimates:
+
+ 500 bronze medals, at $1.50 $750
+ 500 cases, at $1.00 500
+ ------
+ $1,250
+
+ Mr. Peale asks me to present the medals which are sent with this
+ letter. That in bronze is for yourself, and that in silver gilt
+ we request you to give to the President.
+
+ They were made by the process recommended in this letter. The
+ medallion was modelled by Mr. Chapman. You will not fail to
+ observe that the head and shoulder are in too great relief, the
+ former to such an extent as partially to overshadow the features
+ of the face. This is a fault easily avoided in a new medallion.
+
+ I beg you to be assured that any services which I can render to
+ you in this matter are fully at your command.
+
+ Very respectfully,
+ Your faithful servant,
+ R. M. PATTERSON, _Director_.
+
+
+
+No. 60. (p. 290)
+PLATE LXI.
+
+
+_September 24, 1846._
+
+ Major General Zachary Taylor, [Rx]. Resolution of Congress March
+ 2nd 1847, etc.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ZACHARY TAYLOR.
+
+[_Taking of Monterey._]
+
+MAJOR GENERAL ZACHARY TAYLOR. Bust of General Taylor, in uniform,
+facing the right.
+
+Within a wreath of oak: RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS MARCH 2nd 1847 MONTEREY
+SEPTEMBER 1846.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to General Taylor._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ thanks of Congress are due, and are hereby tendered, to
+ Major-General Zachary Taylor, his officers and men, for the
+ fortitude, skill, enterprise, and courage which distinguished the
+ late brilliant military operations at Monterey.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President be requested to cause to be struck
+ a gold medal, with devices emblematical of this splendid
+ achievement, and presented to General Taylor as a testimony of
+ the high sense entertained by Congress for his judicious and
+ distinguished conduct on that memorable occasion.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be further
+ requested to cause swords, with suitable devices, to be presented
+ to Major-General Butler, Major-General Henderson, and to
+ Brigadier-General Quitman, in testimony of the high sense
+ entertained by Congress of their gallantry and good conduct in
+ storming Monterey.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be further
+ requested to present a sword, with suitable devices, to the
+ nearest male relative of Brigadier-General Hamer, and to
+ communicate to him the deep regret which Congress feels for the
+ loss of a gallant man, whose name ought to live in the (p. 291)
+ recollection and affection of a grateful country.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to cause the foregoing resolutions to be communicated to General
+ Taylor, and through him, to the army under his command.
+
+ Approved March 2d, 1847.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Taylor to the Adjutant-General of the Army._
+
+ Head-Quarters, Army of Occupation,
+ To Camp Near Monterey, October 9, 1846.
+ THE ADJUTANT-GENERAL OF THE ARMY,
+ Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: I have now the honor to submit a detailed report of the
+ recent operations before Monterey, resulting in the capitulation
+ of that city.
+
+ The information received on the route from Seralvo, and
+ particularly the continual appearance in our front of the Mexican
+ cavalry, which had a slight skirmish with our advance at the
+ village of Ramas, induced the belief, as we approached Monterey,
+ that the enemy would defend that place. Upon reaching the
+ neighborhood of the city, on the morning of the 19th of
+ September, this belief was fully confirmed. It was ascertained
+ that he occupied the town in force; that a large work had been
+ constructed commanding all the northern approaches; and that the
+ Bishop's Palace, and some heights in its vicinity near the
+ Saltillo road, had also been fortified and occupied with troops
+ and artillery. It was known, from information previously
+ received, that the eastern approaches were commanded by several
+ small works in the lower edge of the city.
+
+ The configuration of the heights and gorges in the direction of
+ the Saltillo road, as visible from the point attained by our
+ advance on the morning of the 19th, led me to suspect that it was
+ practicable to turn all the works in that direction, and thus cut
+ the enemy's line of communication. After establishing my camp at
+ the "Walnut Springs," three miles from Monterey, the nearest
+ suitable position, it was, accordingly, my first care to order a
+ close reconnoissance of the ground in question, which was
+ executed on the evening of the 19th by the engineer officers,
+ under the direction of Major Mansfield. A reconnoissance of the
+ eastern approaches was at the same time made by Captain Williams,
+ Topographical Engineer. The examination made by Major Mansfield
+ proved the entire practicability of throwing forward a column to
+ the Saltillo road, and thus turning the position of the enemy.
+ Deeming this to be an operation of essential importance, orders
+ were given to Brevet Brigadier-General Worth, commanding the
+ second division, to march with his command on the 20th; to turn
+ the hill of the Bishop's Palace; to occupy a position on the
+ Saltillo road, and to carry the enemy's detached works in that
+ quarter, where practicable. The first regiment of Texas mounted
+ volunteers, under command of Colonel Hays, was associated with
+ the second division on this service. Captain Sanders, Engineers,
+ and Lieutenant Meade, Topographical Engineers, were also (p. 292)
+ ordered to report to General Worth for duty with his column.
+
+ At 2 o'clock P.M., on the 20th, the second division took up its
+ march. It was soon discovered by officers who were reconnoitering
+ the town, and communicated to General Worth, that its movement
+ had been perceived, and that the enemy was throwing
+ reinforcements towards the Bishop's Palace and the height which
+ commands it. To divert his attention as far as practicable, the
+ first division, under Brigadier-General Twiggs, and the field
+ division of volunteers, under Major-General Butler, were
+ displayed in front of the town until dark. Arrangements were made
+ at the same time to place in battery during the night, at a
+ suitable distance from the enemy's main work, the citadel, two
+ twenty-four pounder howitzers, and a ten-inch mortar, with a view
+ to open a fire on the following day, when I proposed to make a
+ diversion in favor of General Worth's movement. The 4th Infantry
+ covered this battery during the night. General Worth had, in the
+ mean time, reached and occupied for the night a defensive
+ position just without range of a battery above the Bishop's
+ Palace, having made a reconnoissance as far as the Saltillo road.
+
+ Before proceeding to report the operations of the 21st and
+ following days, I beg leave to state that I shall mention in
+ detail only those which were conducted against the eastern
+ extremity of the city, or elsewhere, under my immediate
+ direction, referring you for the particulars of General Worth's
+ operations, which were entirely detached, to his own full report.
+
+ Early on the morning of the 21st, I received a note from General
+ Worth, written at half-past nine o'clock the night before,
+ suggesting what I had already intended, a strong diversion
+ against the centre and left of the town, to favor his enterprise
+ against the heights in rear. The infantry and artillery of the
+ first division, and the field division of volunteers, were
+ ordered under arms and took the direction of the city, leaving
+ one company of each regiment as a camp guard. The 2d Dragoons,
+ under Lieutenant-Colonel May, and Colonel Wood's regiment of
+ Texas mounted volunteers, under the immediate direction of
+ General Henderson, were directed to the right to support General
+ Worth, if necessary, and to make an impression, if practicable,
+ upon the upper quarter of the city. Upon approaching the mortar
+ battery, the 1st and 3d regiments of infantry and battalion of
+ Baltimore and Washington volunteers, with Captain Bragg's field
+ battery, the whole under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel
+ Garland, were directed toward the lower part of the town, with
+ orders to make a strong demonstration, and carry one of the
+ enemy's advanced works, if it could be done without too heavy
+ loss. Major Mansfield, Engineers, and Captain Williams and
+ Lieutenant Pope, Topographical Engineers, accompanied this
+ column, Major Mansfield being charged with its direction and the
+ designation of points of attack. In the meantime the mortar,
+ served by Captain Ramsay, of the Ordnance, and the howitzer
+ battery under Captain Webster, 1st Artillery, had opened their
+ fire upon the citadel, which was deliberately sustained, and
+ answered from the work. General Butler's division had now taken
+ up a position in rear of this battery, when the discharges of
+ artillery, mingled finally with a rapid fire of small arms,
+ showed that Lieutenant-Colonel Garland's command had become
+ warmly engaged. I now deemed it necessary to support this attack,
+ and accordingly ordered the 4th Infantry and three regiments of
+ General Butler's division, to march at once by the left (p. 293)
+ flank in the direction of the advanced work at the lower
+ extremity of the town, leaving one regiment (1st Kentucky) to
+ cover the mortar and howitzer battery. By some mistake two
+ companies of the 4th Infantry did not receive this order, and
+ consequently did not join the advance companies until some time
+ afterward.
+
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Garland's command had approached the town in a
+ direction to the right of the advanced work (No. 1) at the
+ northeastern angle of the city, and the engineer officer, covered
+ by skirmishers, had succeeded in entering the suburbs and gaining
+ cover. The remainder of this command now advanced and entered the
+ town under a fire of artillery from the citadel and the works on
+ the left, and of musketry from the houses and small works in
+ front. A movement to the right was attempted with a view to gain
+ the rear of No. 1, and carry that work, but the troops were so
+ much exposed to a fire which they could not effectually return,
+ and had already sustained such severe loss, particularly in
+ officers, that it was deemed best to withdraw them to a more
+ secure position. Captain Backus, 1st Infantry, however, with a
+ portion of his own and other companies, had gained the roof of a
+ tannery, which looked directly into the gorge of No. 1, and from
+ which he poured a most destructive fire into that work and upon
+ the strong building in its rear. This fire happily coincided in
+ point of time with the advance of a portion of the volunteer
+ division upon No. 1, and contributed largely to the fall of that
+ strong and important work.
+
+ The three regiments of the volunteer division, under the
+ immediate command of Major-General Butler, had in the mean time
+ advanced in the direction of No. 1. The leading brigade, under
+ Brigadier-General Quitman, continued its advance upon that work,
+ preceded by three companies of the 4th Infantry, while General
+ Butler, with the first Ohio regiment, entered the town to the
+ right. The companies of the 4th Infantry had advanced within
+ short range of the work, when they were received by a fire that
+ almost, in one moment, struck down one-third of the officers and
+ men, and rendered it necessary to retire and effect a conjunction
+ with the two other companies then advancing. General Quitman's
+ brigade, though suffering most severely, particularly in the
+ Tennessee regiment, continued its advance, and finally carried
+ the work in handsome style, as well as the strong building in its
+ rear. Five pieces of artillery, a considerable supply of
+ ammunition, and thirty prisoners, including three officers, fell
+ into their hands. Major-General Butler, with the 1st Ohio
+ regiment, after entering the edge of the town, discovered that
+ nothing was to be accomplished in his front, and at this point,
+ yielding to the suggestions of several officers, I ordered a
+ retrograde movement; but learning almost immediately from one of
+ my staff that the battery No. 1 was in our possession, the order
+ was countermanded; and I determined to hold the battery and
+ defences already gained. General Butler, with the 1st Ohio
+ regiment, then entered the town at a point farther to the left,
+ and marched in the direction of the battery No. 2. While making
+ an examination, with a view to ascertain the possibility of
+ carrying this second work by storm, the general was wounded and
+ soon after compelled to quit the field. As the strength of No. 2
+ and the heavy musketry fire flanking the approach rendered it
+ impossible to carry it without great loss, the 1st Ohio regiment
+ was withdrawn from the town.
+
+ Fragments of the various regiments engaged were now under (p. 294)
+ cover of the captured battery, and some buildings in its
+ front, and on the right. The field batteries of Captains Bragg
+ and Ridgely were also partially covered by the battery. An
+ incessant fire was kept up on this position from battery No. 2,
+ and other works on its right, and from the citadel on all our
+ approaches. General Twiggs, though quite unwell, joined me at
+ this point, and was instrumental in causing the artillery
+ captured from the enemy to be placed in battery, and served by
+ Captain Ridgely against No. 2, until the arrival of Captain
+ Webster's howitzer battery, which took its place. In the mean
+ time, I directed such men as could be collected of the 1st, 3d,
+ and 4th regiments, and Baltimore battalion, to enter the town,
+ penetrating to the right, and carry the 2d battery if possible.
+ This command, under Lieutenant-Colonel Garland, advanced beyond
+ the bridge "Purisima," when, finding it impracticable to gain the
+ rear of the 2d battery, a portion of it sustained themselves for
+ some time in that advanced position; but as no permanent
+ impression could be made at that point, and the main object of
+ the general operation had been effected, the command, including a
+ section of Captain Ridgely's battery, which had joined it, was
+ withdrawn to battery No. 1. During the absence of this column, a
+ demonstration of cavalry was reported in the direction of the
+ citadel. Captain Bragg, who was at hand, immediately galloped
+ with his battery to a suitable position, from which a few
+ discharges effectually dispersed the enemy. Captain Miller, 1st
+ Infantry, was dispatched with a mixed company to support the
+ battery on this service. The enemy's lancers had previously
+ charged upon the Ohio and a part of the Mississippi regiment,
+ near some fields at a distance from the edge of the town, and had
+ been repulsed with a considerable loss. A demonstration of
+ cavalry on the opposite side of the river was also dispersed in
+ the course of the afternoon by Captain Ridgely's battery, and the
+ squadrons returned to the city. At the approach of evening, all
+ the troops that had been engaged were ordered back to camp,
+ except Captain Ridgely's battery, and the regular infantry of the
+ first division, who were detailed as a guard for the works during
+ the night, under command of Lieutenant-Colonel Garland. One
+ battalion of the 1st Kentucky regiment was ordered to reinforce
+ this command. Intrenching tools were procured, and additional
+ strength was given to the works, and protection to the men, by
+ working parties during the night, under the direction of
+ Lieutenant Scarritt, Engineers.
+
+ The main object proposed in the morning had been effected. A
+ powerful diversion had been made to favor the operations of the
+ 2d Division, one of the enemy's advanced works had been carried,
+ and we now had a strong foot-hold in the town. But this had not
+ been accomplished without a heavy loss, embracing some of our
+ gallant and promising officers. Captain Williams, Topographical
+ Engineers, Lieutenants Terrett and Dilworth, 1st Infantry,
+ Lieutenant Woods, 2d Infantry, Captains Morris and Field,
+ Brevet-Major Barbour, Lieutenants Irwin and Hazlitt, 3d Infantry,
+ Lieutenant Hoskins, 4th Infantry, Lieutenant-Colonel Watson,
+ Baltimore battalion, Captain Allen and Lieutenant Putman,
+ Tennessee regiment, and Lieutenant Hett, Ohio regiment, were
+ killed, or have since died of wounds received in this engagement,
+ while the number and rank of the officers wounded gives
+ additional proof of the obstinacy of the contest, and the good
+ conduct of our troops. The number of killed and wounded (p. 295)
+ incident to the operations in the lower part of the city on the
+ 21st is 394.
+
+ Early in the morning of this day (21st), the advance of the 2d
+ Division had encountered the enemy in force, and after a brief
+ but sharp conflict, repulsed him with heavy loss. General Worth
+ then succeeded in gaining a position on the Saltillo road, thus
+ cutting the enemy's line of communication. From this position the
+ two heights south of the Saltillo road were carried in
+ succession, and the gun taken in one of them turned upon the
+ Bishop's Palace. These important successes were fortunately
+ obtained with comparatively small loss; Captain McKavett, 8th
+ Infantry, being the only officer killed.
+
+ The 22d day of September passed without any active operations in
+ the lower part of the city. The citadel and other works continued
+ to fire at parties exposed to their range, and at the work now
+ occupied by our troops. The guard left in it the preceding night,
+ except Captain Ridgely's company, was relieved at midday by
+ General Quitman's brigade. Captain Bragg's battery was thrown
+ under cover in front of the town to repel any demonstration of
+ cavalry in that quarter. At dawn of day the height above the
+ Bishop's Palace was carried, and soon after meridian the palace
+ itself was taken, and its guns turned upon the fugitive garrison.
+ The object for which the 2d Division was detached had thus been
+ completely accomplished, and I felt confident that with a strong
+ force occupying the road and heights in his rear, and a good
+ position below the city in our possession, the enemy could not
+ possibly maintain the town.
+
+ During the night of the 22d the enemy evacuated nearly all his
+ defences in the lower part of the city. This was reported to me
+ early in the morning of the 23d by General Quitman, who had
+ already meditated an assault upon those works. I immediately sent
+ instructions to that officer, leaving it to his discretion, to
+ enter the city, covering his men by the houses and walls, and
+ advance carefully as far as he might deem prudent. After ordering
+ the remainder of the troops as a reserve, under the orders of
+ Brigadier-General Twiggs, I repaired to the abandoned works and
+ discovered that a portion of General Quitman's brigade had
+ entered the town, and were successfully forcing their way towards
+ the principal plaza. I then ordered up the 2d regiment of Texas
+ mounted volunteers, who entered the city dismounted, and, under
+ the immediate orders of General Henderson, co-operated with
+ General Quitman's brigade. Captain Bragg's battery was also
+ ordered up, supported by the 3d Infantry; and after firing for
+ some time at the cathedral, a portion of it was likewise thrown
+ into the city. Our troops advanced from house to house, and from
+ square to square, until they reached a street but one square in
+ rear of the principal plaza, in and near which the enemy's force
+ was mainly concentrated. This advance was conducted vigorously,
+ but with due caution, and although destructive to the enemy, was
+ attended with but small loss on our part. Captain Ridgely, in the
+ mean time, had served a captured piece in battery No. 1 against
+ the city, until the advance of our men rendered it imprudent to
+ fire in the direction of the cathedral. I was now satisfied that
+ we could operate successfully in the city, and that the enemy had
+ retired from the lower portion of it to make a stand behind his
+ barricades. As General Quitman's brigade had been on duty the
+ previous night, I determined to withdraw the troops to the (p. 296)
+ evacuated works, and concert with General Worth a combined
+ attack upon the town. The troops accordingly fell back
+ deliberately, in good order, and resumed their original
+ positions, General Quitman's brigade being relieved after
+ nightfall by that of General Hamer. On my return to camp, I met
+ an officer with the intelligence that General Worth, induced by
+ the firing in the lower part of the city, was about making an
+ attack at the upper extremity, which had also been evacuated by
+ the enemy to a considerable distance. I regretted that this
+ information had not reached me before leaving the city, but still
+ deemed it inexpedient to change my orders, and accordingly
+ returned to the camp. A note from General Worth written at eleven
+ o'clock P.M., informed me that he had advanced to within a short
+ distance of the principal plaza, and that the mortar (which had
+ been sent to his division in the morning) was doing good
+ execution within effective range of the enemy's position.
+
+ Desiring to make no further attempt upon the city without
+ complete concert as to the lines and mode of approach, I
+ instructed that officer to suspend his advance until I could have
+ an interview with him on the following morning at his
+ head-quarters.
+
+ Early on the morning of the 24th, I received, through Colonel
+ Moreno, a communication from General Ampudia, proposing to
+ evacuate the town; which, with the answer, were forwarded with my
+ first despatch. I arranged with Colonel Moreno a cessation of
+ fire until twelve o'clock, at which hour I would receive the
+ answer of the Mexican general at General Worth's head-quarters,
+ to which I soon repaired. In the mean time, General Ampudia had
+ signified to General Worth, his desire for a personal interview
+ with me, to which I acceded, and which finally resulted in a
+ capitulation, placing the town and the material of war, with
+ certain exceptions, in our possession. A copy of that
+ capitulation was transmitted with my first despatch.
+
+ Upon occupying the city, it was discovered to be of great
+ strength in itself, and to have its approaches carefully and
+ strongly fortified. The town and works were armed with forty-two
+ pieces of cannon, well supplied with ammunition, and manned with
+ a force of at least 7000 troops of the line, and from 2000 to
+ 3000 irregulars. The force under my orders before Monterey, was
+ 425 officers and 6220 men. Our artillery consisted of one
+ ten-inch mortar, two twenty-four-pounder howitzers, and four
+ light field batteries of four guns each; the mortar being the
+ only piece suitable to the operations of a siege.
+
+ Our loss is twelve officers and one hundred and eight men killed;
+ thirty-one officers and three hundred and thirty-seven men
+ wounded. That of the enemy is not known, but is believed
+ considerably to exceed our own.
+
+ I take pleasure in bringing to the notice of the government the
+ good conduct of the troops, both regulars and volunteers, which
+ has been conspicuous throughout the operations. I am proud to
+ bear testimony to their coolness and constancy in battle, and the
+ cheerfulness with which they have submitted to exposure and
+ privation. To the general officers commanding divisions,
+ Major-Generals Butler and Henderson, and Brigadier-Generals
+ Twiggs and Worth, I must express my obligations for the efficient
+ aid which they have rendered in their respective commands. I was
+ unfortunately deprived, early on the 21st, of the valuable
+ services of Major-General Butler, who was disabled by a wound
+ received in the attack on the city. Major-General Henderson,
+ commanding the Texan volunteers, has given me important aid (p. 297)
+ in the organization of the command, and its subsequent
+ operations. Brigadier-General Twiggs rendered important services
+ with his division, and as the second in command after
+ Major-General Butler was disabled. Brigadier-General Worth was
+ intrusted with an important detachment which rendered his
+ operations independent of my own. These operations were conducted
+ with ability, and crowned with complete success.
+
+ I desire also to notice Brigadier-Generals Hamer and Quitman,
+ commanding brigades in General Butler's division;
+ Lieutenant-Colonels Garland and Wilson, commanding brigades in
+ General Twiggs' division; Colonels Mitchell, Campbell, Davis, and
+ Wood, commanding the Ohio, Tennessee, Mississippi, and 2d Texas
+ regiments, respectively; and Majors Lear, Allen, and Abercrombie,
+ commanding the 3d, 4th, and 1st regiments of infantry; all of
+ whom served under my eye, and conducted their commands with
+ coolness and gallantry against the enemy. Colonel Mitchell,
+ Lieutenant-Colonel McClung, Mississippi regiment, Major Lear, 3d
+ Infantry, and Major Alexander, Tennessee regiment, were all
+ severely wounded, as were Captain Lamotte, 1st Infantry,
+ Lieutenant Graham, 4th Infantry, Adjutant Armstrong, Ohio
+ regiment, Lieutenants Scudder and Allen, Tennessee regiment, and
+ Lieutenant Howard, Mississippi regiment, while leading their men
+ against the enemy's position, on the 21st and 23d. After the fall
+ of Colonel Mitchell, the command of 1st Ohio regiment devolved
+ upon Lieutenant-Colonel Weller; that of the 3d Infantry, after
+ the fall of Major Lear, devolved in succession upon Captain
+ Bainbridge and Captain Henry, the former being also wounded. The
+ following named officers have been favorably noticed by their
+ commanders: Lieutenant-Colonel Anderson, and Adjutant Heiman,
+ Tennessee regiment; Lieutenant-Colonel McClung, Captains Cooper
+ and Downing, Lieutenants Patterson, Calhoun, Moore, Russell, and
+ Cook, Mississippi regiment; also Sergeant-Major Hearlan,
+ Mississippi regiment, and Major Price, and Captain J. Smith,
+ unattached, but serving with it. I beg leave also to call
+ attention to the good conduct of Captain Johnston, Ohio regiment,
+ and Lieutenant Hooker, 1st Artillery, serving on the staff of
+ General Hamer, and of Lieutenant Nichols, 2d Artillery, on that
+ of General Quitman. Captains Bragg and Ridgely served with their
+ batteries during the operations under my own observation, and in
+ part under my immediate orders, and exhibited distinguished skill
+ and gallantry. Captain Webster, 1st Artillery, assisted by
+ Lieutenants Donaldson and Bowen, rendered good service with the
+ howitzer battery, which was much exposed to the enemy's fire on
+ the 21st.
+
+ From the nature of the operations, the 2d Dragoons were not
+ brought into action, but were usefully employed under the
+ direction of Lieutenant-Colonel May, as escorts, and in keeping
+ open our communications. The 1st Kentucky regiment was also
+ prevented from participating in the action of the 21st, but
+ rendered highly important services under Colonel Ormsby, in
+ covering the mortar battery, and holding in check the enemy's
+ cavalry during the day.
+
+ I have noticed above the officers whose conduct either fell under
+ my immediate eye, or is noticed only in minor reports which are
+ not forwarded. For further mention of individuals, I beg leave to
+ refer to the reports of division commanders. I fully concur in
+ their recommendations, and desire that they may be considered as
+ a part of my own report.
+
+ From the officers of my personal staff, and of the engineers, (p. 298)
+ topographical engineers, and ordnance, associated with me,
+ I have derived valuable and efficient assistance during the
+ operations. Colonel Whiting, assistant quartermaster-general,
+ Colonels Croghan and Belknap, inspector generals, Major Bliss,
+ assistant adjutant general, Captain Sibley, assistant
+ quartermaster, Captain Waggaman, commissary of subsistence,
+ Captain Eaton and Lieutenant Garnett, aids-de-camp, and Major
+ Kirby and Van Buren, pay department, served near my person, and
+ were ever prompt, in all situations, in the communication of my
+ orders and instructions. I must express my particular obligations
+ to Brevet-Major Mansfield and Lieutenant Scarritt, corps of
+ Engineers. They both rendered most important services in
+ reconnoitring the enemy's positions, conducting troops in attack,
+ and strengthening the works captured from the enemy. Major
+ Mansfield, though wounded on the 21st, remained on duty during
+ that and the following day, until confined by his wound to camp.
+ Captain Williams, Topographical Engineer, to my great regret and
+ the loss of the service, was mortally wounded while fearlessly
+ exposing himself in the attack of the 21st. Lieutenant Pope, of
+ the same corps, was active and zealous throughout the operations.
+ Major Munroe, chief of the Artillery, Major Craig and Captain
+ Ramsay, of the Ordnance, were assiduous in the performance of
+ their proper duties. The former superintended their mortar
+ service on the 22d, as particularly mentioned in the report of
+ General Worth, to which I also refer for the services of the
+ engineer and topographical officers detached with the second
+ division.
+
+ Surgeon Craig, medical director, was actively employed in the
+ important duties of his department, and the medical staff
+ generally were unremitting in their attentions to the numerous
+ wounded; their duties with the regular regiments being rendered
+ uncommonly arduous by the small number serving in the field.
+
+ I respectfully enclose herewith, in addition to the report of
+ division commanders, a field return of the force before Monterey
+ on the 21st of September; a return of killed, wounded and missing
+ during the operations, and two topographical sketches, one
+ exhibiting all the movements around Monterey, the other on a
+ large scale illustrating more particularly the operations in the
+ lower quarters of the city, prepared respectively by Lieutenants
+ Meade and Pope, Topographical Engineers.
+
+ I am, Sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ Z. TAYLOR,
+ _Major-General U. S. A._, _commanding_.
+
+
+
+No. 61. (p. 299)
+PLATE LXII.
+
+
+_December 10, 1846._
+
+ Somers navis Americana. [Rx]. Pro vitis Americanorum conservatis.
+
+LOSS OF THE UNITED STATES BRIG-OF-WAR SOMERS.
+
+[_for Having Saved the Lives of Americans._]
+
+SOMERS NAVIS AMERICANA. (_The American vessel Somers._) The United
+States brig-of-war Somers knocked down at sea. Exergue: ANTE VERA CRUZ
+DEC. 10{TH} 1846. (_Off Vera Cruz, December 10th, 1846._) C. C.
+WRIGHT. F. (_fecit_).
+
+PRO VITIS AMERICANORUM CONSERVATIS. (_For having saved the lives of
+Americans._) Three men-of-war's boats, English, Spanish, and French,
+pulling for the Somers. Exergue: A vacant space for the name of the
+recipient. ENG. (_engraved_) BY C. C. WRIGHT.
+
+I saw, in 1872, in the office of the chief clerk of the Navy
+Department, Washington, two small paintings of both sides of this
+medal. They were signed: Butterworth, pinxit.
+
+
+CHARLES CUSHING WRIGHT was born in Maine in 1796. He was a bank note
+engraver and a die sinker, and made several medals, among others those
+voted to General Taylor for Buena Vista, to General Scott for Mexico,
+to Colonel Bliss by the State of New York, to General Taylor by the
+State of Louisiana, to the Volunteers in Mexico by the City of New
+York, and the Somers medal. He died in New York, June 7, 1854.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 300)
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to British, French, and Spanish
+Officers, etc._
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States is hereby authorized and requested
+ to cause suitable gold and silver medals to be prepared and
+ presented to the officers and men belonging or attached to the
+ French, British, and Spanish ships of war in the harbor of Vera
+ Cruz, who so gallantly and at the imminent peril of their lives,
+ aided in rescuing from a watery grave many of the officers and
+ crew of the United States brig Somers.
+
+ Approved March 3d, 1847.
+
+ _____
+
+_Lieutenant Semmes to Commodore M. C. Perry._
+
+ To U. S. frigate Raritan,
+ COMMODORE M. C. PERRY, Anton Lizardo, December 10, 1846.
+ Second in command, Home Squadron.
+
+ Sir: It becomes my painful duty to inform you of the loss of the
+ U.S. brig Somers, late under my command, and of the drowning of
+ more than half of her crew. The details of this sad catastrophe
+ are briefly as follows:
+
+ After having been forty-five days maintaining the blockade off
+ Vera Cruz, I anchored on the evening of the 7th instant under
+ Verde Island, where it had been my practice to take shelter from
+ the N. W. gales, which blow with such frequency and violence
+ along this coast at this season of the year. Soon after sunrise
+ the next morning, a sail having been descried from the masthead,
+ I immediately got under way, and commenced beating up between the
+ Verde Island and Pascoros reefs. In a short time I was enabled,
+ with my glass, to make out the strange sail to be a man of war,
+ whereupon I hoisted my number, and had the satisfaction in
+ fifteen or twenty minutes more to see the stranger show that of
+ the "John Adams." The wind, which had been blowing from the W. N.
+ W. when we got under way, gradually hauled to the northwest and
+ settled for a while at N. N. E. The barometer having fallen the
+ night previous to 29.80 in., and being still down, and the
+ weather looking still unsettled, I was apprehensive of a gale. As
+ soon, therefore, as the "John Adams" showed her number, I wore
+ round and ran down towards Verde Island, with a view of coming
+ to, and getting my vessel snug before the gale should come on.
+ When I had nearly approached the anchorage, the look-out at the
+ masthead cried "Sail ho!" a second time. On applying my glass to
+ the direction indicated from aloft, I perceived this second sail
+ to be a brig in the N. E., standing apparently for Vera Cruz (she
+ did afterwards run between the inner Anegada and the Blanquilla).
+ I immediately abandoned my intention of anchoring, as the gale
+ had not yet set in, and hauling on a wind, under top-sails and
+ courses, commenced to beat up the passage a second time, (p. 301)
+ with the view of placing myself between the strange sail
+ and the Port, to prevent the possibility of her running the
+ blockade, if she should be so inclined. I made one tack towards
+ the Pascoros reefs, and at the time of the catastrophe, was
+ standing on the larboard tack, with the northern point of the
+ Verde Island reef a couple of points on my lee bow. We were still
+ under topsails, courses, jib and spanker, and the Brig did not
+ appear too much pressed. I was myself standing on the lee
+ arm-chest, having just passed over from the weather quarter, and,
+ with my spy-glass in hand, was observing the reef on our lee bow
+ to see whether it were possible to weather it, or in the event of
+ our not being able to do this, to give timely notice to the
+ officer of the deck to tack ship. I had not been long in this
+ position before the officer of the deck, 2d Lieut. Jas. L.
+ Parker, remarked to me that he thought it looked a little squally
+ to windward. I immediately passed over to the weather side, and
+ as it looked a little darker than it had done, I ordered him to
+ haul up the mainsail, and brail up the spanker, and directed the
+ helm to be put up. These orders were promptly obeyed. Lieut.
+ Parker took the mainsail off her, and had got the spanker about
+ half brailed up, when the squall struck us. It did not appear to
+ be very riotous, nor was its approach accompanied by any foaming
+ of the water, or other indications which usually mark the
+ approach of heavy squalls. But the Brig being flying light,
+ having scarcely any water or provisions, and but six tons of
+ ballast on board, she was thrown over almost instantly, so far as
+ to refuse to obey her helm, the pressure of the water on the lee
+ bow rather inclining her to luff; seeing which, I directed the
+ helm to be put down, hoping that I might luff and shake the wind
+ out of her sails, until the force of the squall should be spent.
+ The quartermaster at the helm had hardly time to obey this order,
+ before the brig was on her beam ends, and the water pouring into
+ every hatch and scuttle. Being now convinced that she must
+ speedily go down unless relieved, I ordered the masts to be cut
+ away. The officers and men, who, with few exceptions, had, by
+ this time, gained the weather bulwarks of the vessel, immediately
+ began to cut away the rigging. But as this was a forlorn hope,
+ the brig filling very fast, and her masts and yards lying flat
+ upon the surface of the sea, I placed no reliance whatever on
+ their efforts. A few moments more, and I was convinced that, in
+ spite of all our exertions, she must inevitably go down in a very
+ short time. I accordingly turned my attention to the saving of as
+ many lives as possible. The boats secured in the grips amidships,
+ and the starboard-quarter boat, were already several feet under
+ water, so that it was impossible to reach them, but we succeeded
+ in disengaging the larboard-quarter boat from her davits, a small
+ boat pulling five oars, and dropped her, fortunately, to leeward
+ of the brig to prevent her being thrown upon the vessel's side,
+ and crushed by the sea. I ordered Midshipman F. G. Clark to take
+ charge of this boat, and with the purser, surgeon, and seventeen
+ men, make for Verde Island, if possible, and after having landed
+ all but the boat's crew, to return and save others. It was now
+ blowing a strong gale, with a heavy sea running, and I deemed it
+ imprudent to trust more men in so small a boat. Besides, I was
+ anxious to shove her off, before the vessel should sink, lest
+ there might be a rush for her, and no life at all should be
+ saved. I cannot refrain from expressing, in this place, my
+ admiration of the noble conduct of several of the men embarked in
+ this boat, who implored the officers by name to take their (p. 302)
+ places, saying they would willingly die by the wreck, if the
+ officers would but save themselves. Of course, none of the
+ generous fellows were permitted to come out, and they were all
+ subsequently safely landed, as they deserved to be. Midshipman
+ Clark fortunately succeeded in shoving off, and pulling some
+ twenty paces from the brig before she went down. When she was on
+ the point of sinking beneath us, and engulfing us in the waves, I
+ gave the order: "Every man save himself who can." Whereupon there
+ was a simultaneous plunge into the sea, of about sixty officers
+ and men, each one trying to secure some frail object that had
+ drifted from the wreck, for the purpose of sustaining himself in
+ the awful struggle with the sea, which awaited him. Some reached
+ a grating, some an oar, some a boat's mast, some a hen-coop, &c.,
+ but many poor fellows sprang into the sea to perish in a few
+ minutes, not being able to find any object of support. Lieut.
+ Parker and myself, being both swimmers, were fortunate enough to
+ reach one of the arm-chest gratings, which afforded us partial
+ support, but on which we should inevitably have been drowned, if
+ we had not, when we had swam some twenty or thirty paces, secured
+ an upper half port which came drifting by us. We lashed this with
+ lanyards attached to it to our grating, and thenceforth got along
+ much better. Midshipman Clark, after he had landed the officers
+ and men under his charge at Verde Island, shoved off a second
+ time, in obedience to the orders I had given him, at the imminent
+ peril of his life, for the gale was now blowing with such
+ violence, and the sea running so heavy, that it seemed impossible
+ that so small a boat could live, and skirted the Verde Island to
+ see if it were possible to rescue any of us from the waves. His
+ efforts were rewarded with partial success, as he picked up
+ Lieutenant Parker and myself and one of the seamen. As soon as I
+ landed I sent Midshipman Clark out again, who ventured as far
+ from the island as he thought his boat would live, but this time
+ he returned unsuccessful, having been able to descry no floating
+ object whatever. Lieutenant Claiborne saved himself on a small
+ hatch about two feet square, used for covering the pump-well, and
+ which he found floating near the wreck. He was thrown with great
+ violence upon a reef near Sacrificios, but fortunately escaped
+ without serious injury. As strange as it may appear to you, there
+ could not have elapsed more than ten minutes between our being
+ struck with the squall and the total disappearance of the
+ "Somers." I feel that I would not be doing justice to the
+ officers and men who were under my command on this melancholy
+ occasion, if I were to close this report without bearing
+ testimony to their uniform coolness and self-possession under the
+ trying circumstance under which we were placed, the alacrity with
+ which they obeyed my orders, and when all was over the generosity
+ with which they behaved to each other in the water, where the
+ struggle was one of life and death. I have thus concluded what I
+ had to say in relation to the causes of the disaster, and our own
+ exertions; but with heartfelt acknowledgments, it remains for me
+ to inform you of the gallant and feeling manner in which all the
+ foreign men-of-war lying at Sacrificios came to our rescue. They
+ hoisted out and manned boats immediately, and at the hazard of
+ their lives, put out towards the wreck. They were at first driven
+ back by the violence of the wind and sea, but renewed their
+ efforts upon the first lull, and had the unhoped for satisfaction
+ of saving fourteen more of our unfortunate companions. To Captain
+ Lambert, of the English frigate "Endymion;" Captain (p. 303)
+ Frankland, of the English corvette "Alarm;" Commander Matson, of
+ the English brig "Daring;" Captain Dubut, of the French brig
+ "Mercure;" Captain de Labedoyere, of the French brig "Pylade;"
+ and Captain Puente, of the Spanish corvette "Louisa Fernandez;"
+ who all sent boats, and supplied us with clothing, and hospitably
+ entertained us on board their ships, we owe a lasting debt of
+ gratitude.
+
+ In conclusion, I respectfully request that at as early a date as
+ convenient you will order a Court of Inquiry to investigate my
+ conduct in this unfortunate affair.
+
+ R. SEMMES, _Lieutenant commanding_.
+
+
+
+No. 62. (p. 304)
+PLATE LXIII.
+
+
+_1847._
+
+ Major General Winfield Scott. [Rx]. Vera Cruz. Cerro Gordo.
+ Contreras, etc.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL SCOTT.
+
+[_Mexican Campaign._]
+
+In a pendant: MAJOR GENERAL WINFIELD SCOTT. Undraped bust of General
+Scott, facing the left. Fifteen stars on each side. Exergue:
+RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS MARCH 9. 1848. S. ELLIS DEL. (_delineavit._) On
+the edge of bust, C. C. WRIGHT, F. (_fecit_).
+
+Six crowns of laurel and oak intertwined; in each the name of one of
+the Mexican victories of General Scott: VERA CRUZ. CERRO GORDO.
+CONTRERAS. SAN ANTONIO & CHURUBUSCO. MOLINO DEL REY. CHAPULTEPEC. In
+the centre is the taking of the capital, CITY OF MEXICO, which General
+Scott is observing on horseback. G. C. HUMPHRIES DEL. (_delineavit._)
+C. C. WRIGHT FECt. (_fecit_).
+
+
+SALATHIEL ELLIS was born in Vermont in 1806, and followed his parents
+to St. Lawrence County, New York. He became a portrait painter, cameo
+cutter and die sinker. He settled in New York city about 1842, and
+designed the obverses of the medals awarded to General Taylor for
+Buena Vista, and to General Scott for Mexico; he engraved the obverses
+of the medals of Presidents Fillmore, Pierce, Buchanan, and Lincoln,
+and also of that given to Cornelius Vanderbilt.
+
+
+G. C. HUMPHRIES, who designed the reverse of this medal, died in
+London, England.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 305)
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to General Scott._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ thanks of Congress be, and they are hereby, presented to Winfield
+ Scott, Major-General commanding-in-chief the army in Mexico, and
+ through him to the officers and men of the regular and volunteer
+ corps under him, for their uniform gallantry and good conduct,
+ conspicuously displayed at the siege and capture of the city of
+ Vera Cruz and castle of San Juan d'Ulloa, March 29, 1847; and in
+ the successive battles of Cerro Gordo, April 18; Contreras, San
+ Antonio, and Churubusco, August 19 and 20; and for the victories
+ achieved in front of the city of Mexico, September 8, 11, 12, and
+ 13; and the capture of the metropolis, September 14, 1847; in
+ which the Mexican troops, greatly superior in numbers, and with
+ every advantage of position, were in every conflict signally
+ defeated by the American arms.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be, and he is
+ hereby, requested to cause to be struck a gold medal, with
+ devices emblematical of the series of brilliant victories
+ achieved by the army, and presented to Major-General Winfield
+ Scott, as a testimony of the high sense entertained by Congress
+ of his valor, skill, and judicious conduct in the memorable
+ campaign of 1847.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to cause the foregoing resolutions to be communicated to
+ Major-General Scott in such terms as he may deem best calculated
+ to give effect to the objects thereof.
+
+ Approved March 9, 1848.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Scott to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honorable Headquarters of the Army,
+ William L. MARCY, Camp Washington, before Vera Cruz,
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. March 12, 1847.
+
+ Sir: The colors of the United States were triumphantly planted
+ ashore, in full view of the city and castle, and under the
+ distant fire of both, in the afternoon of the 9th inst. Brevet
+ Brigadier-General Worth's brigade of regulars led the descent,
+ quickly followed by the division of United States volunteers
+ under Major-General Patterson, and Brigadier-General Twiggs'
+ reserve brigade of regulars. The three lines successively landed
+ in sixty-seven surf-boats, each boat conducted by a naval
+ officer, and rowed by sailors from Commodore Conner's squadron,
+ whose lighter vessels flanked the boats so as to be ready to
+ protect the operation by their cross-fire. The whole army reached
+ the shore in fine style, and without direct opposition (on the
+ beach), accident or loss, driving the enemy from the ground to be
+ occupied.
+
+ The line of investment, according to General Orders, No. 47, was
+ partially taken up the same night; but has only been completed
+ to-day, owing to most extraordinary difficulties: 1. The environs
+ of the city, outside of the fire of its guns and those of the (p. 306)
+ castle, are broken into innumerable hills of loose sand, from
+ 20 to 250 feet in height, with almost impassable forests of
+ chapparal between; and 2. Of all our means, of land
+ transportation: wagons, carts, pack-saddles, horses and mules,
+ expected to join us from Tampico and the Brazos, weeks ago, but
+ fifteen carts and about one hundred draught-horses have yet
+ arrived. Three hundred pack-mules are greatly needed to relieve
+ the troops in taking subsistence alone, along the line of
+ investment of more than five miles, as, at present, our only
+ depot is south of the city. On the cessation of the present
+ raging norther, which almost stifles the troops with sand,
+ sweeping away hills and creating new, I hope to establish a
+ second depot north of the city, which will partially relieve the
+ left wing of the army.
+
+ In extending the line of investment around the city, the troops
+ for three days have performed the heaviest labors in getting over
+ the hills and cutting through the intervening forests, all under
+ the distant fire of the city and castle, and in the midst of many
+ sharp skirmishes with the enemy. In these operations we have lost
+ in killed and wounded several valuable officers and men. Among
+ the killed I have to report Brevet Captain Alburtis, of the
+ United States 2d Infantry, much distinguished in the Florida war,
+ and a most excellent officer. He fell on the 11th inst., and
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Dickenson, of the South Carolina Regiment, was
+ badly wounded in a skirmish the day before. Two privates have
+ been killed in these operations, and four or five wounded. As yet
+ I have not been able to obtain their names.
+
+ As soon as the subsistence of the troops can be assured, and
+ their positions are well established, I shall, by an organized
+ movement, cause each brigade of regulars and volunteers to send
+ detachments, with supports, to clear its front, including
+ sub-bourgs, of the enemy's parties, so as to oblige them to
+ confine themselves within the walls of the city.
+
+ I have heretofore reported that but two-sevenths of the
+ siege-train and ammunition had reached me. The remainder is yet
+ unheard of. We shall commence landing the heavy metal as soon as
+ the storm subsides, and hope that the five-sevenths may be up in
+ time.
+
+ The city being invested, would, no doubt, early surrender, but
+ for fear that, if occupied by us, it would immediately be fired
+ upon by the castle. I am not altogether without hope of finding
+ the means of coming to some compromise with the city on this
+ subject.
+
+ So far, the principal skirmishing has fallen to the lot of
+ Brigadier-General Pillow's and Quitman's brigades. Both old and
+ new volunteer regiments have conducted themselves admirably.
+ Indeed, the whole army is full of zeal and confidence, and cannot
+ fail to acquire distinction in the impending operations.
+
+ To Commodore Conner, the officers and sailors of his squadron,
+ the army is indebted for great and unceasing assistance, promptly
+ and cheerfully rendered. Their co-operation is the constant theme
+ of our gratitude and admiration. A handsome detachment of
+ marines, under Captain Edson, of that corps, landed with the
+ first line, and is doing duty with the army.
+
+ _March 13th._ The enemy, at intervals, continues the fire of
+ heavy ordnance, from the city and castle, upon our line of
+ investment, both by day and night, but with little or no effect.
+
+ The norther has ceased, which has renewed our communication (p. 307)
+ with the storeships at anchor under Sacrificios. We shall
+ immediately commence landing the few pieces of heavy ordnance,
+ with ordnance stores, at hand, and hope soon to have the
+ necessary draught mules to take them to their positions. Any
+ further delay in the arrival of those means of transportation
+ will be severely felt in our operations.
+
+ I have the honor to remain, Sir, with high respect, your obedient
+ servant,
+ Winfield SCOTT.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Scott to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honorable Headquarters of the Army,
+ William L. MARCY, Camp Washington, before Vera Cruz,
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. March 23, 1847.
+
+ Sir: Yesterday, seven of our 10-inch mortars being in battery,
+ and the labors for planting the remainder of our heavy metal
+ being in progress, I addressed, at two o'clock P.M., a summons
+ to the Governor of Vera Cruz, and within the two hours limited by
+ the bearer of the flag, received the governor's answer. Copies of
+ the two papers (marked respectively A and B) are herewith
+ enclosed.
+
+ It will be perceived that the Governor, who, it turns out, is the
+ commander of both places, chose, against the plain terms of the
+ summons, to suppose me to have demanded the surrender of the
+ castle and of the city; when, in fact, from the non-arrival of
+ our heavy metal, principally mortars, I was in no condition to
+ threaten the former.
+
+ On the return of the flag with the reply, I at once ordered the
+ seven mortars, in battery, to open upon the city. In a short time
+ the smaller vessels of Commodore Perry's squadron, two steamers
+ and five schooners, according to previous arrangement with him,
+ approached the city within about a mile and an eighth, whence,
+ being partially covered from the castle, an essential condition
+ to their safety, they also opened a brisk fire upon the city.
+ This has been continued uninterruptedly by the mortars, and only
+ with a few intermissions, by the vessels, up to 9 o'clock this
+ morning, when the commodore, very properly, called them off from
+ a position too daringly assumed.
+
+ Our three remaining mortars are now (12 o'clock A.M.) in
+ battery, and the whole ten in activity. To-morrow, early, if the
+ city should continue obstinate, batteries Nos. 4 and 5 will be
+ ready to add their fire; No. 4 consisting of four 24-pounders and
+ two 8-inch Paixhan guns, and No. 5 (naval battery) of three
+ 32-pounders and three 8-inch Paixhans: the guns, officers, and
+ sailors, landed from the squadron; our friends of the navy being
+ unremitting in their zealous co-operation, in every mode and
+ form.
+
+ So far, we know that our fire upon the city has been highly
+ effective, particularly from the battery of 10-inch mortars,
+ planted at about 800 yards from the city. Including the
+ preparation and defence of the batteries, from the beginning, now
+ many days, and notwithstanding the heavy fire of the enemy, from
+ city and castle, we have only had four or five men wounded (p. 308)
+ and one officer and one man killed, in or near the trenches. That
+ officer was Captain John R. Vinton, of the United States third
+ Artillery, one of the most talented, accomplished, and effective
+ members of the army, and who was highly distinguished in the
+ brilliant operations at Monterey. He fell last evening in the
+ trenches, where he was on duty as field and commanding officer,
+ universally regretted. I have just attended his honored remains
+ to a soldier's grave, in full view of the enemy and within reach
+ of his guns.
+
+ Thirteen of the long needed mortars, leaving twenty-seven,
+ besides heavy guns, behind, have arrived, and two of them landed.
+ A heavy norther then set in (at meridian) that stopped that
+ operation, and also the landing of shells. Hence the fire of our
+ mortar batteries has been slackened since two o'clock to-day, and
+ cannot be reinvigorated until we shall again have a smooth sea.
+ In the mean time I shall leave this report open for journalizing
+ events that may occur up to the departure of the steam
+ ship-of-war, the Princeton, with Commodore Conner, who, I learn,
+ expects to leave the anchorage off Sacrificios, for the United
+ States, the 25th instant.
+
+ _March 24th._ The storm having subsided in the night, we
+ commenced this forenoon, as soon as the sea became a little
+ smooth, to land shot, shells, and mortars.
+
+ The naval battery, No. 5, was opened with great activity, under
+ Captain Aulick, the second in rank of the squadron, at about 10
+ A.M. His fire was continued to 2 o'clock P.M., a little before
+ he was relieved by Captain Mayo, who landed with a fresh supply
+ of ammunition, Captain Aulick having exhausted the supply he had
+ brought with him. He lost four sailors, killed, and had one
+ officer, Lieutenant Baldwin, slightly hurt.
+
+ The mortar batteries Nos. 1, 2, and 3, have fired but languidly
+ during the day for want of shells, which are now going out from
+ the beach.
+
+ The two reports of Colonel Bankhead, chief of artillery, both of
+ this date, copies of which I enclose, give the incidents of those
+ three batteries.
+
+ Battery No. 4, which will mount four 24-pounders and two 8-inch
+ Paixhan guns, has been much delayed in the hands of the
+ indefatigable engineers by the norther that filled up the work
+ with sand nearly as fast as it could be opened by the
+ half-blinded laborers. It will, however, doubtless be in full
+ activity early to-morrow morning.
+
+ _March 25th._ The Princeton being about to start for
+ Philadelphia, I have but a moment to continue this report.
+
+ All the batteries, Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, are in awful activity
+ this morning. The effect is, no doubt, very great, and I think
+ the city cannot hold out beyond to-day. To-morrow morning many of
+ the new mortars will be in a position to add their fire, when, or
+ after the delay of some twelve hours, if no proposition to
+ surrender should be received, I shall organize parties for
+ carrying the city by assault. So far the defence has been
+ spirited and obstinate.
+
+ I enclose a copy of a memorial received last night, signed by the
+ consuls of Great Britain, France, Spain, and Prussia, within Vera
+ Cruz, asking me to grant a truce to enable the neutrals, together
+ with Mexican women and children, to withdraw from the scene of
+ havoc about them. I shall reply, the moment an opportunity may be
+ taken, to say: 1. That a truce can only be granted on application
+ of Governor Morales, with a view to surrender. 2. That in (p. 309)
+ sending safeguards to the different consuls, beginning so far
+ back as the 13th inst., I distinctly admonished them,
+ particularly the French and Spanish consuls, and of course
+ through the two, the other consuls, of the dangers that have
+ followed. 3. That although at that date I had already refused to
+ allow any person whatever to pass the line of investment either
+ way, yet the blockade had been left open to the consuls and other
+ neutrals to pass out to their respective ships of war up to the
+ 22d instant; and 4. I shall enclose to the memorialists a copy of
+ my summons to the Governor, to show that I had fully considered
+ the impending hardships and distresses of the place, including
+ those of women and children, before one gun had been fired in
+ that direction. The intercourse between the neutral ships of war
+ and the city was stopped at the last mentioned date by Commodore
+ Perry, with my concurrence, which I placed on the ground that
+ that intercourse could not fail to give to the enemy _moral aid
+ and comfort_.
+
+ It will be seen from the memorial that our batteries have already
+ had a terrible effect on the city (also known through other
+ sources), and hence the inference that a surrender must soon be
+ proposed. In haste,
+
+ I have the honor to remain, Sir, with respect, your most obedient
+ servant,
+ Winfield SCOTT.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Scott to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honorable Head-Quarters of the Army,
+ William L. MARCY, Vera Cruz, March 29, 1847.
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: The flag of the United States of America floats triumphantly
+ over the walls of the city and castle of San Juan d'Ulloa.
+
+ Our troops have garrisoned both since 10 o'clock; it is now noon.
+ Brigadier-General Worth is in command of the two places.
+
+ Articles of capitulation were signed and exchanged at a late hour
+ night before last. I enclose a copy of the document.
+
+ I have heretofore reported the principal incidents of the siege
+ up to the 25th instant. Nothing of striking interest occurred
+ till early in the morning of the next day, when I received
+ overtures from General Landero, on whom General Morales had
+ devolved the principal command. A terrible storm of wind and sand
+ made it difficult to communicate with the city, and impossible to
+ refer to Commodore Perry. I was obliged to entertain the
+ proposition alone, or to continue the fire upon a place that had
+ shown a disposition to surrender; for the loss of a day, or
+ perhaps several, could not be permitted. The accompanying papers
+ will show the proceedings and results.
+
+ Yesterday, after the norther had abated, and the commissioners
+ appointed by me early the morning before had again met those
+ appointed by General Landero, Commodore Perry sent ashore his
+ second in command, Captain Aulick, as a commissioner on the part
+ of the navy. Although not included in my specific arrangement
+ with the Mexican commander, I did not hesitate, with proper (p. 310)
+ courtesy, to desire that Captain Aulick might be duly introduced
+ and allowed to participate in the discussions and acts of the
+ commissioners who had been reciprocally accredited. Hence the
+ preamble to his signature. The original American commissioners
+ were Brevet Brigadier-General Worth, Brigadier-General Pillow,
+ and Colonel Totten. Four more able or judicious officers could
+ not have been desired.
+
+ I have to add but little more. The remaining details of the
+ siege; the able co-operation of the United States squadron,
+ successively under the command of Commodores Conner and Perry,
+ the admirable conduct of the whole army, regulars and volunteers,
+ I should be happy to dwell upon as they deserve; but the steamer
+ Princeton, with Commodore Conner on board, is under way, and I
+ have commenced organizing an advance into the interior. This may
+ be delayed a few days, waiting the arrival of additional means of
+ transportation. In the mean time, a joint operation, by land and
+ water will be made upon Alvarado. No lateral expedition, however,
+ shall interfere with the grand movement towards the capital.
+
+ In consideration of the great services of Colonel Totten, in the
+ siege that has just terminated most successively, and the
+ importance of his presence at Washington, as the head of the
+ engineer bureau, I intrust this despatch to his personal care,
+ and beg to commend him to the very favorable consideration of the
+ department.
+
+ I have the honor to remain, Sir, with high respect, your most
+ obedient servant,
+ Winfield SCOTT.
+
+ _____
+
+_Terms of Capitulation agreed upon for the surrender to the arms of
+the United States of America of Vera Cruz, the castle of San Juan
+d'Ulloa and their dependencies, with their armaments, munitions of
+war, garrisons, and arms._
+
+ I.
+
+ The whole garrison, or garrisons, to be surrendered to the arms
+ of the United States of America, as prisoners of war, the 29th
+ instant at 10 o'clock A.M., the garrisons to be permitted to
+ march out with all the honors of war, and to lay down their arms
+ to such officers as may be appointed by the general-in-chief of
+ the United States army, and at a point to be agreed on by the
+ commissioners.
+
+ II.
+
+ Mexican officers shall preserve their arms and private effects,
+ including horse and horse furniture, and to be allowed, regular
+ and irregular officers and also the rank and file, five days to
+ retire to their respective homes, on parole, as hereinafter
+ prescribed.
+
+ III.
+
+ Coincident with the surrender, as stipulated in Article I, the
+ Mexican flags of the various forts and stations shall be struck,
+ saluted by their own batteries; and, immediately thereafter,
+ forts Santiago and Conception and the castle of San Juan d'Ulloa,
+ occupied by the forces of the United States.
+
+ IV.
+
+ The rank and file of the regular portion of the prisoners to (p. 311)
+ be disposed of, after surrender and parole, as their
+ general-in-chief may desire, and the irregular to be permitted to
+ return to their homes. The officers, in respect to all arms and
+ descriptions of force, giving the usual parole, that the said
+ rank and file, as well as themselves, shall not serve again until
+ duly exchanged.
+
+ V.
+
+ All the _materiel_ of war, and all public property of every
+ description found in the city, the castle of San Juan d'Ulloa,
+ and their dependencies, to belong to the United States; but the
+ armament of the same (not injured or destroyed in the further
+ prosecution of the actual war) may be considered as liable to be
+ restored to Mexico by a definite treaty of peace.
+
+ VI.
+
+ The sick and wounded Mexicans to be allowed to remain in the
+ city, with such medical officers of the army as may be necessary
+ to their care and treatment.
+
+ VII.
+
+ Absolute protection is solemnly guaranteed to persons in the
+ city, and property, and it is clearly understood that no private
+ building or property is to be taken or used by the forces of the
+ United States, without previous arrangement with the owners, and
+ for a fair equivalent.
+
+ VIII.
+
+ Absolute freedom of religious worship and ceremonies is solemnly
+ guaranteed.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Scott to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honorable Headquarters of the Army,
+ William L. MARCY, Plan del Rio, 50 miles from Vera Cruz,
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. April 19, 1847.
+
+ Sir: The plan of attack, sketched in General Orders, No. 111,
+ forwarded herewith, was finely executed by this gallant army
+ before two o'clock P.M. yesterday. We are quite embarrassed with
+ the results of victory, prisoners of war, heavy ordnance, field
+ batteries, small arms and accoutrements.
+
+ About three thousand men laid down their arms, with the usual
+ proportion of field and company officers, besides five generals,
+ several of them of great distinction: Pinson, Yarrero, La Vega,
+ Noriega, and Obardo. A sixth general, Vasquez, was killed in
+ defending the battery (tower) in the rear of the whole Mexican
+ army, the capture of which gave us these glorious results.
+
+ Our loss, though comparatively small in numbers, has been
+ serious. Brigadier-General Shields, a commander of activity, zeal
+ and talent, is, I fear, if not dead, mortally wounded. He is (p. 312)
+ some five miles from me at the moment. The field of operations
+ covered many miles, broken by mountains and deep chasms, and I
+ have not a report, as yet, from any division or brigade.
+
+ Twiggs' division, followed by Shields' (now Colonel Baker's)
+ brigade, are now at Xalapa, and Worth's division is en route
+ thither, all pursuing, with good results, as I learn, that part
+ of the Mexican army, perhaps six or seven thousand men, who had
+ fled before our right had carried the tower, and gained the
+ Xalapa road.
+
+ Pillow's brigade alone is near me at this depot of wounded, sick,
+ and prisoners; and I have time only to give from him the names of
+ 1st Lieutenant F. B. Nelson, and 2d Lieutenant C. J. Hill, both
+ of the 2d Tennessee foot (Haskell's regiment), among the killed,
+ and in the brigade one hundred and six, of all ranks, killed or
+ wounded.
+
+ Among the latter, the gallant Brigadier-General himself has a
+ smart wound in the arm, but not disabled; and Major R. Farqueson,
+ 2d Tennessee, Captain H. F. Murray, 2d Lieutenant G. T.
+ Sutherland, 1st Lieutenant W. P. Hale, Adjutant, all of the same
+ regiment, severely, and 1st Lieutenant W. Yearwood, mortally
+ wounded. And I know, from personal observation on the ground,
+ that 1st Lieutenant Ewell, of the Rifles, if not now dead, was
+ mortally wounded in entering, sword in hand, the intrenchments
+ around the captured tower.
+
+ Second Lieutenant Derby, Topographical Engineers, I also saw, at
+ the same place, severely wounded, and Captain Patten, 2d United
+ States Infantry, lost his right hand. Major Sumner, 2d United
+ States Dragoons, was slightly wounded the day before, and Captain
+ Johnston, Topographical Engineers (now Lieutenant-Colonel of
+ Infantry), was very severely wounded some days earlier while
+ reconnoitering. I must not omit to add that Captain Mason, and 2d
+ Lieutenant Davis, both of the rifles, were among the very
+ severely wounded in storming the same tower.
+
+ I estimate our total loss, in killed and wounded, may be about
+ two hundred and fifty, and that of the enemy at three hundred and
+ fifty. In the pursuit toward Xalapa (25 miles hence), I learn, we
+ have added much to the enemy's loss in prisoners, killed and
+ wounded. In fact, I suppose his retreating army to be nearly
+ disorganized, and hence my haste to follow, in an hour or two, to
+ profit by events.
+
+ In this hurried and imperfect report I must not omit to say that
+ Brigadier-General Twiggs, in passing the mountain range beyond
+ Cerro Gordo, crowned with the tower, detached from his division,
+ as I suggested the day before, a strong force to carry that
+ height, which commanded the Xalapa road at the foot, and could
+ not fail, if carried, to cut off the whole, or any part of the
+ enemy's forces, from a retreat in any direction.
+
+ A portion of the 1st Artillery, under the often distinguished
+ Brevet-Colonel Childs, the 3d Infantry, under Captain Alexander,
+ the 7th Infantry, under Lieutenant-Colonel Plympton, and the
+ Rifles, under Major Loring, all under the temporary command of
+ Colonel Hamey, 2d Dragoons, during the confinement to his bed of
+ Brevet Brigadier-General P. F. Smith, composed that detachment.
+ The style of execution, which I had the pleasure to witness, was
+ most brilliant and decisive.
+
+ The brigade ascended the long and difficult slope of Cerro Gordo,
+ without shelter, and under the tremendous fire of artillery and
+ musketry, with the utmost steadiness, reached the breastworks,
+ drove the enemy from them, planted the colors of the 1st (p. 313)
+ Artillery, 3d and 7th Infantry, the enemy's flag still flying,
+ and, after some minutes' sharp firing, finished the conquest
+ with the bayonet.
+
+ It is a most pleasing duty to say that the highest praise is due
+ to Harney, Childs, Plympton, Loring, Alexander, their gallant
+ officers and men, for this brilliant service, independent of the
+ great results which soon followed.
+
+ Worth's division of regulars coming up at this time, he detached
+ Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel C. F. Smith, with his light battalion,
+ to support the assault, but not in time. The general, reaching
+ the tower a few minutes before me, and observing a white flag
+ displayed from the nearest portion of the enemy towards the
+ batteries below, sent out Colonels Harney and Childs to hold a
+ parley. The surrender followed in an hour or two.
+
+ Major-General Patterson left a sick bed to share in the dangers
+ and fatigues of the day; and after the surrender went forward to
+ command the advance forces towards Xalapa.
+
+ Brigadier-General Pillow and his brigade twice assaulted with
+ great daring the enemy's line of batteries on our left; and
+ though without success, they contributed much to distract and
+ dismay their immediate opponents.
+
+ President Santa Anna, with Generals Canalizo and Almonte, and
+ some six or eight thousand men, escaped toward Xalapa just before
+ Cerro Gordo was carried, and before Twiggs' division reached the
+ national road above.
+
+ I have determined to parole the prisoners, officers and men, as I
+ have not the means of feeding them here, beyond to-day, and
+ cannot afford to detail a heavy body of horse and foot, with
+ wagons, to accompany them to Vera Cruz. Our baggage train, though
+ increasing, is not half large enough to give an assured progress
+ to this army.
+
+ Besides, a greater number of prisoners would, probably, escape
+ from the escort in the long and deep sandy road without
+ subsistence, ten to one, than we shall find again, out of the
+ same body of men, in the ranks opposed to us. Not one of the Vera
+ Cruz prisoners is believed to have been in the lines of Cerro
+ Gordo. Some six of the officers, highest in rank, refuse to give
+ their paroles, except to go to Vera Cruz, and thence, perhaps, to
+ the United States.
+
+ The small arms and accoutrements, being of no value to our army
+ here or at home, I have ordered them to be destroyed, for we have
+ not the means of transporting them. I am, also, somewhat
+ embarrassed with the pieces of artillery, all bronze, which we
+ have captured. It would take a brigade, and half the mules of our
+ army, to transport them fifty miles.
+
+ A field battery I shall take for service with the army; but the
+ heavy metal must be collected and left here for the present. We
+ have our own siege-train and the proper carriages with us.
+
+ Being much occupied with the prisoners and all the details of a
+ forward movement, besides looking to the supplies which are to
+ follow from Vera Cruz, I have time to add no more, intending to
+ be at Xalapa early to-morrow. We shall not, probably, again meet
+ with serious opposition this side of Perote; certainly not,
+ unless delayed by the want of the means of transportation.
+
+ I have the honor to remain, Sir, with high respect, your most
+ obedient servant,
+ Winfield SCOTT.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Orders No. 111._ (p. 314)
+
+ Headquarters of the Army,
+ Plan del Rio, April 17, 1847.
+
+ The enemy's line of intrenchments and batteries will be attacked
+ in front, and at the same time turned, early in the day,
+ to-morrow, probably before ten o'clock A.M.
+
+ The second (Twiggs') division of regulars is already advanced
+ within easy turning distance towards the enemy's left. That
+ division has instructions to move forward before daylight
+ to-morrow and take up a position across the national road in the
+ enemy's rear, so as to cut off a retreat towards Xalapa. It may
+ be reinforced to-day if unexpectedly attacked in force, by
+ regiments, one or two taken from Shields' brigade of volunteers.
+ If not, the two volunteer regiments will march for that purpose
+ at daylight to-morrow morning, under Brigadier-General Shields,
+ who will report to Brigadier-General Twiggs, on getting up with
+ him, or the general-in-chief, if he be in advance.
+
+ The remaining regiment of that volunteer brigade will receive
+ instructions in the course of this day.
+
+ The first division of regulars (Worth's) will follow the movement
+ against the enemy's left at sunrise to-morrow morning.
+
+ As already arranged, Brigadier-General Pillow's brigade will
+ march at six o'clock to-morrow morning along the route he has
+ carefully reconnoitered, and stand ready as soon as he hears the
+ report of arms on our right, or sooner if circumstances should
+ favor him, to pierce the enemy's line of batteries at such point,
+ the nearer the river the better, as he may select. Once in the
+ rear of that line, he will turn to the right or left, or both,
+ and attack the batteries in reverse; or, if abandoned, he will
+ pursue the enemy with vigor until further orders.
+
+ Wall's field battery and the cavalry will be held in reserve on
+ the national road, a little out of view and range of the enemy's
+ batteries. They will take up that position at nine o'clock in the
+ morning.
+
+ The enemy's batteries being carried or abandoned, all our
+ divisions and corps will pursue with vigor.
+
+ This pursuit may be continued many miles, until stopped by
+ darkness or fortified positions, towards Xalapa. Consequently the
+ body of the army will not return to this encampment, but be
+ followed to-morrow afternoon, or early the next morning, by the
+ baggage trains of the several corps. For this purpose, the
+ feebler officers and men of each corps will be left to guard its
+ camp and effects, and to load up the latter in the wagons of the
+ corps. A commander of the present encampment will be designated
+ in the course of this day.
+
+ As soon as it shall be known that the enemy's works have been
+ carried, or that the general pursuit has been commenced, one
+ wagon for each regiment and one for the cavalry will follow the
+ movement, to receive, under the direction of medical officers,
+ the wounded and disabled, who will be brought back to this place
+ for treatment in general hospital.
+
+ The Surgeon-General will organize this important service and (p. 315)
+ designate that hospital, as well as the medical officers to
+ be left at it.
+
+ Every man who marches out to attack or pursue the enemy will take
+ the usual allowance of ammunition and subsistence for at least
+ two days.
+
+ By command of Major-General Scott.
+ H. L. SCOTT,
+ _Acting Assistant Adjutant-General_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Scott to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honorable Headquarters of the Army,
+ William L. MARCY, Tacubaya, at the Gates of Mexico,
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. August 28th, 1847.
+
+ Sir: My report, No. 31, commenced in the night of the 19th
+ instant, closed with the operations of the army on that day.
+
+ The morning of the 20th opened with one of a series of
+ unsurpassed achievements, all in view of the capital, and to
+ which I shall give the general name: _Battles of Mexico_.
+
+ In the night of the 19th, Brigadier-Generals Shields, P. F.
+ Smith, and Cadwallader, and Colonel Riley with their brigades,
+ and the 15th Regiment, under Colonel Morgan, detached from
+ Brigadier-General Pierce, found themselves in and about the
+ important position, the village, hamlet or _hacienda_, called
+ indifferently, Contreras, Ansalda, San Geronimo, half a mile
+ nearer to the city than the enemy's intrenched camp, on the same
+ road, towards the factory of Magdalena.
+
+ That camp had been, unexpectedly, our formidable point of attack
+ in the afternoon before, and we had now to take it, without the
+ aid of cavalry or artillery, or to throw back our advanced corps
+ upon the direct road from San Augustin to the city, and thence
+ force a passage through San Antonio.
+
+ Accordingly, to meet contingencies, Major-General Worth was
+ ordered to leave early in the morning of the 20th, one of his
+ brigades to mask San Antonio, and to march with the other six
+ miles, via San Augustin, upon Contreras. A like destination was
+ given to Major-General Quitman and his remaining brigade in San
+ Augustin, replacing, for the moment, the garrison of that
+ important depot with Harney's brigade of cavalry, as horse could
+ not pass over the intervening lava, etc., to reach the field of
+ battle.
+
+ A diversion for an earlier hour (daylight) had been arranged the
+ night before, according to the suggestion of Brigadier-General P.
+ F. Smith, received through the engineer, Captain Lee, who
+ conveyed my orders to our troops remaining on the ground,
+ opposite to the enemy's centre, a point for the diversion or the
+ real attack, as circumstances might allow.
+
+ Guided by Captain Lee, it proved the latter, under the command of
+ Colonel Ransom of the 9th, having with him that regiment and some
+ companies of three others, the 3d, 12th, and Rifles.
+
+ Shields, the senior officer of the hamlet, having arrived in (p. 316)
+ the night, after Smith had arranged with Cadwallader and Riley
+ the plan of attack for the morning, delicately waived
+ interference; but reserved to himself the double task of holding
+ the hamlet with his two regiments (South Carolina and New York
+ Volunteers) against ten times his numbers on the side of the
+ city, including the slopes to his left, and in case the enemy's
+ camp in his rear should be carried, to face about and cut off the
+ flying enemy.
+
+ At three A.M., the great movement commenced on the rear of the
+ enemy's camp, Riley leading, followed successively by
+ Cadwallader's and Smith's brigades, the latter temporarily under
+ the orders of Major Dimick of the 1st Artillery, the whole force
+ being commanded by Smith, the senior in the general attack, and
+ whose arrangements, skill and gallantry always challenge the
+ highest admiration.
+
+ The march was rendered tedious by the darkness, rain, and mud;
+ but about sunrise, Riley, conducted by Lieutenant Turner,
+ Engineer, had reached an elevation behind the enemy, whence he
+ precipitated his columns; stormed the intrenchments, planted his
+ several colors upon them, and carried the work, all in seventeen
+ minutes.
+
+ Conducted by Lieutenant Beauregard, Engineer, and Lieutenant
+ Brooks of Twiggs' staff, both of whom, like Lieutenant Tower,
+ had, in the night, twice reconnoitred the ground; Cadwallader
+ brought up to the general assault two of the regiments: the
+ Voltigeurs and the 11th, and at the appointed time Colonel
+ Ransom, with his temporary brigade, conducted by Captain Lee,
+ Engineer, not only made the movement in front, to divert and to
+ distract the enemy, but, after crossing the deep ravine,
+ advanced, and poured into the works and upon the fugitives many
+ volleys from his destructive musketry.
+
+ In the mean time Smith's own brigade, under the temporary command
+ of Major Dimick, following the movements of Riley and
+ Cadwallader, discovered, opposite to, and outside of the works, a
+ long line of Mexican cavalry, drawn up as a support. Dimick
+ having at the head of the brigade the company of Sappers and
+ Miners, under Lieutenant G. W. Smith, engineer, who had conducted
+ the march, was ordered by Brigadier-General Smith to form his
+ line, faced to the enemy, and in a charge against the flank,
+ routed the cavalry.
+
+ Shields, too, by the wise disposition of his brigade and gallant
+ activity, contributed much to the general results. He held masses
+ of cavalry and infantry, supported by artillery, in check below
+ him, and captured hundreds, with one general (Mendoza), of those
+ who fled from above.
+
+ I doubt whether a more brilliant or decisive victory, taking into
+ view ground, artificial defences, batteries, and the extreme
+ disparity of numbers, without cavalry or artillery on our side,
+ is to be found on record. Including all our corps directed
+ against the intrenched camp, with Shields' brigade at the hamlet,
+ we positively did not number over four thousand five hundred rank
+ and file; and we knew by sight, and since, more certainly, by
+ many captured documents and letters, that the enemy had actually
+ engaged on the spot seven thousand men, with at least twelve
+ thousand more hovering within sight and striking distance, both
+ on the 19th and 20th. All, not killed or captured, now fled with
+ precipitation.
+
+ Thus was the great victory of Contreras achieved; one road to the
+ capital opened; seven hundred of the enemy killed; eight hundred
+ and thirteen prisoners, including, among eighty-eight (p. 317)
+ officers, four generals; besides many colors and standards;
+ twenty-two pieces of brass ordnance, half of large calibre;
+ thousands of small arms and accoutrements; an immense quantity of
+ shot, shells, powder, and cartridges; seven hundred pack mules,
+ many horses, etc., etc., all in our hands.
+
+ It is highly gratifying to find that, by skillful arrangement and
+ rapidity of execution, our loss, in killed and wounded, did not
+ exceed, on the spot, sixty; among the former the brave Captain
+ Charles Hanson, of the 4th Infantry, not more distinguished for
+ gallantry than for modesty, morals, and piety. Lieutenant J. P.
+ Johnstone, 1st Artillery, serving with Magruder's battery, a
+ young officer of the highest promise, was killed the evening
+ before.
+
+ One of the most pleasing incidents of the victory is the
+ recapture, in their works, by Captain Drum, 4th Artillery, under
+ Major Gardner, of the two brass 6-pounders, taken from another
+ company of the same regiment, though without the loss of honor,
+ at the glorious battle of Buena Vista; about which guns the whole
+ regiment had mourned for so many long months! Coming up a little
+ later I had the happiness to join in the protracted cheers of the
+ gallant 4th on the joyous event; and, indeed, the whole army
+ sympathizes in its just pride and exultation.
+
+ The battle being won before the advancing brigades of Worth's and
+ Quitman's divisions were in sight, both were ordered to their
+ late positions: Worth, to attack San Antonio, in front, with his
+ whole force, as soon as approached in the rear by Pillow's and
+ Twiggs' divisions; moving from Contreras, through San Angel and
+ Coyoacan. By carrying San Antonio, we knew that we should open
+ another, a shorter and better road to the capital for our siege
+ and other trains.
+
+ Accordingly, the two advanced divisions and Shields' brigade
+ marched from Contreras, under the immediate orders of
+ Major-General Pillow, who was now joined by the gallant
+ Brigadier-General Pierce of his division, personally thrown out
+ of activity, late the evening before, by a severe hurt received
+ from the fall of his horse.
+
+ After giving necessary orders on the field, in the midst of
+ prisoners and trophies, and sending instructions to Harney's
+ brigade of cavalry (left at San Augustin) to join me, I
+ personally followed Pillow's command.
+
+ Arriving at Coyoacan, two miles by a cross road, from the rear of
+ San Antonio, I first detached Captain Lee, Engineer, with Captain
+ Kearny's troop, 1st Dragoons, supported by the Rifle regiment,
+ under Major Loring, to reconnoitre that strong point; and next
+ despatched Major-General Pillow, with one of his brigades
+ (Cadwallader's), to make the attack upon it, in concert with
+ Major-General Worth on the opposite side.
+
+ At the same time, by another road to the left, Lieutenant Stevens
+ of the Engineers, supported by Lieutenant G. W. Smith's company
+ of sappers and miners, of the same corps, was sent to reconnoitre
+ the strongly fortified church or convent of San Pablo, in the
+ hamlet of Churubusco, one mile off, Twiggs with one of his
+ brigades (Smith's, less the Rifles) and Captain Taylor's field
+ battery, were ordered to follow and to attack the convent. Major
+ Smith, senior Engineer, was despatched to concert with Twiggs the
+ mode and means of attack, and Twiggs' other brigade (Riley's) I
+ soon ordered up to support him.
+
+ Next (but all in ten minutes) I sent Pierce (just able to (p. 318)
+ keep the saddle) with his brigade (Pillow's division),
+ conducted by Captain Lee, Engineer, by a third road a little
+ farther to our left, to attack the enemy's right and rear, in
+ order to favor the movement upon the convent, and to cut off a
+ retreat toward the capital. And finally, Shields, senior
+ brigadier to Pierce, with the New York and South Carolina
+ Volunteers (Quitman's division), was ordered to follow Pierce
+ closely, and to take the command of our left wing. All these
+ movements were made with the utmost alacrity by our gallant
+ troops and commanders.
+
+ Finding myself at Coyoacan, from which so many roads conveniently
+ branched, without escort or reserve, I had to advance for safety
+ close upon Twiggs' rear. The battle now raged from the right to
+ the left of our whole line.
+
+ Learning on the return of Captain Lee, that Shields in the rear
+ of Churubusco was hard pressed, and in danger of being
+ outflanked, if not overwhelmed, by greatly superior numbers, I
+ immediately sent under Major Sumner, 2d Dragoons, the Rifles
+ (Twiggs' reserve) and Captain Sibley's troop, 2d Dragoons, then
+ at hand, to support our left, guided by the same engineer.
+
+ About an hour earlier, Worth had, by skillful and daring
+ movements upon the front and right, turned and forced San
+ Antonio: its garrison, no doubt, much shaken by our decisive
+ victory at Contreras.
+
+ His second brigade (Colonel Clarke's) conducted by Captain Mason,
+ Engineer, assisted by Lieutenant Hardcastle, Topographical
+ Engineer, turned to the left, and by a wide sweep came out upon
+ the high road to the capital. At this point the heavy garrison
+ (three thousand men) in retreat was, by Clarke, cut in the
+ centre: one portion, the rear, driven upon Dolores, off to the
+ right, and the other upon Churubusco, in the direct line of our
+ operations. The first brigade (Colonel Garland's), same division,
+ consisting of the 2d Artillery, under Major Gait, the 3d
+ Artillery, under Lieutenant-Colonel Belton, and the 4th Infantry,
+ commanded by Major F. Lee, with Lieutenant-Colonel Duncan's field
+ battery (temporarily) followed in pursuit through the town,
+ taking one general prisoner, the abandoned guns (five pieces),
+ much ammunition and other public property.
+
+ The forcing of San Antonio was the _second_ brilliant event of
+ the day. Worth's division being soon reunited in hot pursuit, he
+ was joined by Major-General Pillow, who, marching from Coyoacan
+ and discovering that San Antonio had been carried, immediately
+ turned to the left according to my instructions, and, though much
+ impeded by ditches and swamps, hastened to the attack of
+ Churubusco.
+
+ The hamlet or scattered houses bearing this name, presented
+ besides the fortified convent, a strong field-work
+ (_tete-de-pont_) with regular bastions and curtains, at the head
+ of a bridge over which the road passes from San Antonio to the
+ capital.
+
+ The whole remaining forces of Mexico, some twenty-seven thousand
+ men, cavalry, artillery and infantry, collected from every
+ quarter, were now in, on the flanks, or within supporting
+ distance of those works, and seemed resolved to make a last and
+ desperate stand; for if beaten here, the feebler defences at the
+ gates of the city, four miles off, could not, as was well known
+ to both parties, delay the victors an hour. The capital of an
+ ancient empire, now of a great republic, or an early peace, the
+ assailants were resolved to win. Not an American, and we were
+ less than a third of the enemy's numbers, had a doubt as to the
+ result.
+
+ The fortified church or convent, hotly pressed by Twiggs, (p. 319)
+ had already held out about an hour, when Worth and Pillow,
+ the latter having with him Cadwallader's brigade, began
+ to manoeuvre closely upon the _tete-de-pont_, with the convent
+ at half gunshot to their left. Garland's brigade (Worth's
+ division), to which had been added the light battalion under
+ Lieutenant-Colonel C. F. Smith, continued to advance in front and
+ under the fire of a long line of infantry off on the left of the
+ bridge; and Clarke, of the same division, directed his brigade
+ along the road or close by its side. Two of Pillow's and
+ Cadwallader's regiments, the 11th and 14th, supported and
+ participated in this direct movement; the other (the Voltigeurs)
+ was left in reserve. Most of these corps, particularly Clarke's
+ brigade, advancing perpendicularly, were made to suffer much by
+ the fire of the _tete-de-pont_, and they would have suffered
+ greatly more by flank attacks from the convent, but for the
+ pressure of Twiggs on the other side of that work.
+
+ This well-combined and daring movement at length reached the
+ principal point of attack, and the formidable _tete-de-pont_ was
+ at once assaulted and carried by the bayonet. Its deep wet ditch
+ was first gallantly crossed by the 8th and 5th Infantry,
+ commanded respectively by Major Waite and Lieutenant-Colonel
+ Martin Scott, followed closely by the 6th Infantry (same
+ brigade), which had been so much exposed on the road, the 11th
+ regiment, under Lieutenant-Colonel Graham, and the 14th,
+ commanded by Colonel Trousdale, both of Cadwallader's brigade,
+ Pillow's division. About the same time the enemy in front of
+ Garland, after a hot conflict of an hour and a half, gave way in
+ a retreat toward the capital.
+
+ The immediate result of this _third_ signal triumph of the day
+ were three field pieces, one hundred and ninety-two prisoners,
+ much ammunition, and two colors taken at the _tete-de-pont_.
+
+ Lieutenant I. F. Irons, 1st Artillery, aid-de-camp to
+ Brigadier-General Cadwallader, a young officer of great merit and
+ conspicuous in battle on several previous occasions, received in
+ front of the work a mortal wound. (Since dead.)
+
+ As the concurrent attack upon the convent favored physically and
+ morally the assault upon the _tete-de-pont_, so reciprocally, no
+ doubt, the fall of the latter contributed to the capture of the
+ former. The two works were only some four hundred and fifty yards
+ apart; and as soon as we were in possession of the
+ _tete-de-pont_, a captured four-pounder was turned and fired,
+ first by Captain Larkin Smith, and next by Lieutenant Snelling,
+ both of the 8th Infantry, several times upon the convent. In the
+ same brief interval, Lieutenant-Colonel Duncan (also of Worth's
+ division) gallantly brought two of his guns to bear at a short
+ range from the San Antonio road, upon the principal face of the
+ work and on the tower of the church, which in the obstinate
+ contest, had been often refilled with some of the best
+ sharpshooters of the enemy.
+
+ Finally, twenty minutes after the _tete-de-pont_ had been carried
+ by Worth and Pillow, and at the end of a desperate conflict of
+ two hours and a half, the church or convent, the citadel of the
+ strong line of defence along the rivulet of Churubusco, yielded
+ to Twiggs' division, and threw out on all sides signals of
+ surrender. The white flags, however, were not exhibited until the
+ moment when the 3d Infantry, under Captain Alexander, had cleared
+ the way by fire and bayonet, and had entered the work. Captain I.
+ M. Smith and Lieutenant O. L. Shepherd, both of that regiment,
+ with their companies, had the glory of leading the assault. (p. 320)
+ The former received the surrender, and Captain Alexander
+ instantly hung out from the balcony the colors of the gallant 3d.
+ Major Dimick, with a part of the 1st Artillery, serving as
+ infantry, entered nearly abreast with the leading troops.
+
+ Captain Taylor's field battery, attached to Twiggs' division,
+ opened its effective fire at an early moment upon the outworks of
+ the convent and the tower of its church. Exposed to the severest
+ fire of the enemy, the captain, his officers and men, won
+ universal admiration; but at length, much disabled in men and
+ horses, the battery was by superior orders withdrawn from the
+ action thirty minutes before the surrender of the convent.
+
+ Those corps, excepting Taylor's battery, belonged to the brigade
+ of Brigadier-General P. F. Smith, who closely directed the whole
+ attack with his habitual coolness and ability: while Riley's
+ brigade, the 2d and 7th Infantry, under Captain T. Morris and
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Plympton respectively, vigorously engaged the
+ right of the work and part of its rear. At the moment the Rifles,
+ belonging to Smith's, were detached in support of
+ Brigadier-General Shields on our extreme left, and the 4th
+ Artillery, acting as infantry, under Major Gardner, belonging to
+ Riley's brigade, had been left in charge of the camp, trophies,
+ etc., at Contreras. Twiggs' division at Churubusco had thus been
+ deprived of the services of two of its most gallant and effective
+ regiments.
+
+ The immediate results of this victory were: the capture of seven
+ field pieces, some ammunition, one color, three generals, and one
+ thousand two hundred and sixty-one prisoners, including other
+ officers.
+
+ Captains E. A. Capron and M. J. Burke, and Lieutenant G. Hoffman,
+ all of the 1st Artillery, and Captain J. W. Anderson and
+ Lieutenant Thomas Easley, both of the 2d Infantry, five officers
+ of great merit, fell gallantly before this work.
+
+ The capture of the enemy's citadel was the _fourth_ great
+ achievement of our arms in the same day.
+
+ It has been stated that some two hours and a half before,
+ Pierce's, followed closely by the volunteer brigade, both under
+ the command of Brigadier-General Shields, had been dispatched to
+ our left to turn the enemy's works; to prevent the escape of the
+ garrisons and to oppose the extention of the enemy's numerous
+ corps from the rear upon and around our left.
+
+ Considering the inferior numbers of the two brigades, the objects
+ of the movement were difficult to accomplish. Hence the
+ re-enforcement (the Rifles, etc.,) sent forward a little later.
+
+ In a winding march of a mile around to the right, this temporary
+ division found itself on the edge of an open wet meadow, near the
+ road from San Antonio to the capital, and in the presence of some
+ four thousand of the enemy's infantry, a little in rear of
+ Churubusco, on that road. Establishing the right at a strong
+ building, Shields extended his left parallel to the road, to
+ outflank the enemy toward the capital. But the enemy extending
+ his right, supported by three thousand cavalry, more rapidly
+ (being favored by better ground) in the same direction, Shields
+ concentrated the division about a hamlet and determined to attack
+ in front. The battle was long, hot and varied; but, ultimately,
+ success crowned the zeal and gallantry of our troops, ably (p. 321)
+ directed by their distinguished commander, Brigadier-General
+ Shields. The 9th, 12th and 15th regiments, under Colonel Ransom,
+ Captain Wood, and Colonel Morgan respectively, of Pierce's
+ brigade (Pillow's division), and the New York and South Carolina
+ Volunteers, under Colonels Burnett and Butler respectively, of
+ Shields' own brigade (Quitman's division), together with the
+ mountain howitzer battery, now under Lieutenant Reno of the
+ Ordnance Corps, all shared in the glory of this action, our
+ _fifth_ victory in the same day.
+
+ Brigadier-General Pierce, from the hurt of the evening before,
+ under pain and exhaustion, fainted in the action. Several other
+ changes in command occurred on this field. Thus Colonel Morgan
+ being severely wounded, the command of the 15th Infantry devolved
+ on Lieutenant-Colonel Howard; Colonel Burnett receiving a like
+ wound, the command of the New York Volunteers fell to
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Baxter; and, on the fall of the lamented
+ Colonel P. M. Butler, earlier badly wounded, but continuing to
+ lead nobly in the hottest of the battle, the command of the South
+ Carolina Volunteers devolved, first, on Lieutenant-Colonel
+ Dickenson, who being severely wounded (as before in the siege of
+ Vera Cruz), the regiment ultimately fell under the orders of
+ Major Gladden.
+
+ Lieutenants David Adams and W. R. Williams of the same corps;
+ Captain Augustus Quarks and Lieutenant J. B. Goodman of the 15th,
+ and Lieutenant E. Chandler, New York Volunteers, all gallant
+ officers, nobly fell in the same action.
+
+ Shields took three hundred and eighty prisoners, including
+ officers; and it cannot be doubted that the rage of the conflict
+ between him and the enemy, just in the rear of the _tete-de-pont_
+ and the convent, had some influence on the surrender of those
+ formidable defences.
+
+ As soon as the _tete-de-pont_ was carried, the greater part of
+ Worth's and Pillow's forces passed that bridge in rapid pursuit
+ of the flying enemy. These distinguished generals, coming up with
+ Brigadier-General Shields, now also victorious, the three
+ continued to press upon the fugitives to within a mile and a half
+ of the capital. Here, Colonel Harney, with a small part of his
+ brigade of cavalry, rapidly passed to the front, and charged the
+ enemy up to the nearest gate.
+
+ The cavalry charge was headed by Captain Kearny, of the 1st
+ Dragoons, having in squadron with his own troop, that of Captain
+ M'Reynolds of the 3d making the usual escort to general
+ headquarters; but, being early in the day detached for general
+ service, was now under Colonel Hamey's orders. The gallant
+ captain not hearing the _recall_, that had been sounded, dashed
+ up to the San Antonio gate, sabring in his way all who resisted.
+ Of the seven officers of the squadron, Kearny lost his left arm;
+ M'Reynolds and Lieutenant Lorimer Graham were both severely
+ wounded, and Lieutenant R. S. Ewell, who succeeded to the command
+ of the escort, had two horses killed under him. Major F. D. Mills
+ of the 15th Infantry, a volunteer in this charge, was killed at
+ the gate.
+
+ So terminated the series of events which I have but feebly
+ presented. My thanks were freely poured out on the different
+ fields, to the abilities and science of generals and other
+ officers, to the zeal and prowess of all, the rank and file
+ included. But a reward infinitely higher, the applause of a
+ grateful country and government, will, I cannot doubt, be
+ accorded in due time to so much merit of every sort displayed (p. 322)
+ by this glorious army, which has now overcome all difficulties:
+ distance, climate, ground, fortifications, numbers.
+
+ It has in a single day, in many battles, as often defeated
+ thirty-two thousand men; made about three thousand prisoners,
+ including eight generals (two of them ex-presidents), and two
+ hundred and five other officers; killed or wounded four thousand
+ of all ranks, besides entire corps dispersed and dissolved;
+ captured thirty-seven pieces of ordnance, more than trebling our
+ siege train and field batteries, with a large number of small
+ arms, a full supply of ammunition of every kind, etc. etc.
+
+ These great results have overwhelmed the enemy. Our loss amounts
+ to one thousand and fifty-three: _killed_, one hundred and
+ thirty-nine, including sixteen officers; _wounded_, eight hundred
+ and seventy-six, with sixty officers. The greater number of the
+ dead and disabled were of the highest worth. Those under
+ treatment, thanks to our very able medical officers, are doing
+ well.
+
+ I regret having been obliged, on the 20th, to leave Major-General
+ Quitman, an able commander, with a part of his division, the fine
+ 2d Pennsylvania Volunteers, and the veteran detachment of United
+ States marines, at our important depot, San Augustin. It was
+ there that I had placed our sick and wounded, the siege, supply
+ and baggage trains. If these had been lost, the army would have
+ been driven almost to despair; and considering the enemy's very
+ great excess of numbers, and the many approaches to the depot, it
+ might well have become, emphatically, the post of honor.
+
+ After so many victories, we might, with but little additional
+ loss, have occupied the capital the same evening. But Mr. Trist,
+ commissioner, etc., as well as myself, had been admonished by the
+ best friends of peace, intelligent neutrals, and some American
+ residents, against precipitation, lest, by wantonly driving away
+ the government and others, dishonored, we might scatter the
+ elements of peace, excite a spirit of national desperation and
+ thus indefinitely postpone the hope of accommodation.
+
+ Deeply impressed with this danger, and remembering our mission,
+ _to conquer a peace_, the army very cheerfully sacrificed to
+ patriotism, to the great wish and want of our country, the
+ _eclat_ that would have followed an entrance, sword in hand, into
+ a great capital. Willing to leave something to this republic, of
+ no immediate value to us, on which to rest her pride, and to
+ recover temper, I halted our victorious corps at the gates of the
+ city (at least for a time), and have them now cantoned in the
+ neighboring villages, where they are well sheltered and supplied
+ with all necessaries.
+
+ On the morning of the 21st, being about to take up battering or
+ assaulting position, to authorize me to summon the city to
+ surrender, or to sign an armistice with a pledge to enter at once
+ into negotiations for peace, a mission came out to propose a
+ truce. Rejecting its terms, I dispatched my contemplated note to
+ President Santa Anna, omitting the summons. The 22d,
+ commissioners were appointed by the commanders of the two armies;
+ the armistice was signed the 23d, and ratifications exchanged the
+ 24th.
+
+ All matters in dispute between the two governments have been thus
+ happily turned over to their plenipotentiaries, who have now had
+ several conferences, and with, I think, some hope of signing a
+ treaty of peace.
+
+ There will be transmitted to the adjutant-general reports from
+ divisions, brigades, etc., on the foregoing operations, to which
+ I must refer, with my hearty concurrence in the just applause (p. 323)
+ bestowed on corps and individuals by their respective commanders.
+ I have been able, this report being necessarily a summary, to
+ bring out, comparatively, but little of individual merit not
+ lying directly in the way of the narrative. Thus I doubt whether
+ I have, in express terms, given my approbation and applause to
+ the commanders of divisions and independent brigades; but left
+ their fame upon higher grounds, the simple record of their great
+ deeds and the brilliant results.
+
+ To the staff, both general and personal, attached to general
+ headquarters, I was again under high obligations for services in
+ the field, as always in the bureau, I add their names, etc.:
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Hitchcock, Acting Inspector General; Major J.
+ L. Smith, Captain R. E. Lee (as distinguished for felicitous
+ execution as for science and daring), Captain Mason, Lieutenants
+ Stevens, Beauregard, Tower, G. W. Smith, George B. McClellan, and
+ Foster, all of the Engineers; Major Turnbull, Captain J.
+ McClellan, and Lieutenant Hardcastle, Topographical Engineers;
+ Captain Huger and Lieutenant Hagner, of the Ordnance; Captains
+ Irwin and Wayne, of the Quartermaster's Department; Captain
+ Grayson, of the Commissariat; Surgeon-General Lawson, in his
+ particular department; Captain H. L. Scott, Acting
+ Adjutant-General; Lieutenant T. Williams, Aid-de-Camp, and
+ Lieutenant Lay, Military Secretary.
+
+ Lieutenant Schuyler Hamilton, another aid-de-camp, had a week
+ before been thrown out of activity by a severe wound received in
+ a successful charge of cavalry against cavalry, and four times
+ his numbers; but on the 20th, I had the valuable services, as
+ volunteer aids, of Majors Kirby and Van Buren, of the Pay
+ Department, always eager for activity and distinction, and of a
+ third, the gallant Major J. P. Gaines, of the Kentucky
+ Volunteers.
+
+ I have the honor to be, Sir, with high respect, your most
+ obedient servant,
+ Winfield SCOTT.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Scott to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honorable Headquarters of the Army,
+ William L. MARCY, Tacubaya, near Mexico,
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. September 11, 1847.
+
+ Sir: I have heretofore reported that I had, August 24, concluded
+ an armistice with President Santa Anna, which was promptly
+ followed by meetings between Mr. Trist and Mexican commissioners
+ appointed to treat of peace.
+
+ Negotiations were actively continued with, as was understood,
+ some prospect of a successful result, up to the 2d instant, when
+ our commissioner handed in his ultimatum (on boundaries), and the
+ negotiators adjourned to meet again on the 6th.
+
+ Some infractions of the truce in respect to our supplies from the
+ city, were earlier committed, followed by apologies on the part
+ of the enemy. These vexations I was willing to put down to the
+ imbecility of the government, and waived any pointed demands of
+ reparation while any hope remained of a satisfactory termination
+ of the war. But on the 5th, and more fully on the sixth, (p. 324)
+ I learned that as soon as the _ultimatum_ had been considered in
+ a grand council of ministers and others, President Santa Anna on
+ the 4th or 5th, without giving me the slightest notice, actively
+ recommenced strengthening the military defences of the city,
+ in gross violation of the 3d article of the armistice.
+
+ On that information, which has since received the fullest
+ verification, I addressed to him my note of the 6th. His reply,
+ dated the same day, received the next morning, was absolutely and
+ notoriously false, both in recrimination and explanation. I
+ enclose copies of both papers, and have had no subsequent
+ correspondence with the enemy.
+
+ Being delayed by the terms of the armistice more than two weeks,
+ we had now, late on the 7th, to begin to reconnoitre the
+ different approaches to the city, within our reach, before I
+ could lay down any definitive plan of attack.
+
+ The same afternoon a large body of the enemy was discovered
+ hovering about the _Molinos del Rey_, within a mile and a third
+ of this village, where I am quartered with the general staff and
+ Worth's division.
+
+ It might have been supposed that an attack upon us was intended;
+ but knowing the great value to the enemy of those mills (_Molinos
+ del Rey_), containing a cannon foundry, with a large deposit of
+ powder in _Casa Mata_ near them, and having heard two days before
+ that many church bells had been sent to be cast into guns, the
+ movement was easily understood, and I resolved at once to drive
+ him early the next morning, to seize the powder, and to destroy
+ the foundry.
+
+ Another motive for this decision, leaving the general plan of
+ attack upon the city for full reconnoissance, was, that we knew
+ our recent captures had left the enemy not a fourth of the guns
+ necessary to arm, all at the same time, the strong works at each
+ of the eight city gates; and we could not cut the communication
+ between the foundry and the capital without first taking the
+ formidable castle on the heights of Chapultepec, which overlooked
+ both and stood between.
+
+ For this difficult operation we were not entirely ready, and
+ moreover we might altogether neglect the castle, if, as we then
+ hoped, our reconnoissances should prove that the distant southern
+ approaches to the city were more eligible than this southwestern
+ one.
+
+ Hence the decision promptly taken, the execution of which was
+ assigned to Brevet Major-General Worth, whose division was
+ re-enforced with Cadwallader's brigade of Pillow's division,
+ three squadrons of dragoons under Major Sumner, and some heavy
+ guns of the siege train under Captain Huger of the Ordnance, and
+ Captain Drum of the 4th Artillery, two officers of the highest
+ merit.
+
+ For the decisive and brilliant results, I beg to refer to the
+ report of the immediate commander, Major-General Worth, in whose
+ commendations of the gallant officers and men, dead and living, I
+ heartily concur, having witnessed, but with little indifference,
+ their noble devotion to fame and to country.
+
+ The enemy having several times re-enforced his line, and the
+ action soon becoming much more general than I had expected, I
+ called up, from the distance of three miles, first Major-General
+ Pillow, with his remaining brigade (Pierce's), and next Riley's
+ brigade of Twiggs' division, leaving his other brigade (Smith's)
+ in observation at San Angel. Those corps approached with zeal (p. 325)
+ and rapidity, but the battle was won just as Brigadier-General
+ Pierce reached the ground, and had interposed his corps between
+ Garland's brigade (Worth's division) and the retreating enemy.
+
+ The accompanying report mentions, with just commendation, two of
+ my volunteer aids: Major Kirby, Paymaster, and Major Gaines, of
+ the Kentucky Volunteers. I also had the valuable services, on the
+ same field, of several officers of my staff, general and
+ personal: Lieutenant-Colonel Hitchcock, Acting Inspector-General;
+ Captain R. E. Lee, Engineer; Captain Irwin, Chief Quartermaster;
+ Captain Grayson, Chief Commissary; Captain H. L. Scott, Acting
+ Adjutant-General; Lieutenant Williams, Aid-de-Camp; and
+ Lieutenant Lay, Military Secretary.
+
+ I have the honor to be, Sir, with high respect, your obedient
+ servant,
+ Winfield SCOTT.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Scott to the Secretary of War._
+
+ To the Honorable Headquarters of the Army,
+ William L. MARCY, National Palace of Mexico,
+ Secretary of War, Washington, D. C. September 18th, 1847.
+
+ Sir: At the end of another series of arduous and brilliant
+ operations of more than forty-eight hours' continuance, this
+ glorious army hoisted, on the morning of the 14th, the colors of
+ the United States on the walls of this palace.
+
+ The victory of the 8th, at the Molinos del Rey, was followed by
+ daring reconnaissances on the part of our distinguished
+ engineers, Captain Lee, Lieutenants Beauregard, Stevens, and
+ Tower: Major Smith, senior, being sick, and Captain Mason, third
+ in rank, wounded. Their operations were directed principally to
+ the south, towards the gates of the Piedad, San Angel, (Nino
+ Perdido,) San Antonio, and the Paseo de la Viga.
+
+ This city stands on a slight swell of ground, near the centre of
+ an irregular basin, and is girdled with a ditch in its greater
+ extent, a navigable canal of great breadth and depth, very
+ difficult to bridge in the presence of an enemy, and serving at
+ once for drainage, custom-house purposes, and military defence;
+ leaving eight entrances or gates, over arches, each of which we
+ found defended by a system of strong works, that seemed to
+ require nothing but some men and guns to be impregnable.
+
+ Outside and within the cross-fires of those gates, we found to
+ the south other obstacles but little less formidable. All the
+ approaches near the city are over elevated causeways, cut in many
+ places (to oppose us), and flanked on both sides by ditches, also
+ of unusual dimensions. The numerous cross-roads are flanked in
+ like manner, having bridges at the intersections, recently
+ broken. The meadows thus checkered are, moreover, in many spots,
+ under water or marshy; for, it will be remembered, we were in the
+ midst of the wet season, though with less rain than usual, and we
+ could not wait for the fall of the neighboring lakes and the
+ consequent drainage of the wet grounds at the edge of the (p. 326)
+ city, the lowest in the whole basin.
+
+ After a close personal survey of the southern gates, covered by
+ Pillow's division and Riley's brigade of Twiggs', with four times
+ our numbers concentrated in our immediate front, I determined on
+ the 11th to avoid that network of obstacles, and to seek, by a
+ sudden diversion to the southwest and west, less unfavorable
+ approaches.
+
+ To economize the lives of our gallant officers and men, as well
+ as to ensure success, it became indispensable that this
+ resolution should be long masked from the enemy; and again, that
+ the new movement, when discovered, should be mistaken for a
+ feint, and the old as indicating our true and ultimate point of
+ attack.
+
+ Accordingly, on the spot, the 11th, I ordered Quitman's division
+ from Coyoacan, to join Pillow, by daylight, before the southern
+ gates, and then that the two major-generals, with their
+ divisions, should, by night, proceed (two miles) to join me at
+ Tacubaya, where I was quartered with Worth's division. Twiggs,
+ with Riley's brigade and Captain Taylor's and Steptoe's field
+ batteries, the latter of twelve-pounders, was left in front of
+ those gates to manoeuvre, to threaten, or to make false
+ attacks, in order to occupy and deceive the enemy. Twiggs' other
+ brigade (Smith's) was left at supporting distance, in the rear,
+ at San Angel, till the morning of the 13th, and also to support
+ our general depot at Miscoac. The stratagem against the south was
+ admirably executed throughout the 12th and down to the afternoon
+ of the 13th, when it was too late for the enemy to recover from
+ the effects of his delusion.
+
+ The first step in the new movement was to carry Chapultepec, a
+ natural and isolated mound of great elevation, strongly fortified
+ at its base, on its acclivities and heights. Besides a numerous
+ garrison, here was the military college of the republic, with a
+ large number of sub-lieutenants and other students. Those works
+ were within direct gun-shot of the village of Tacubaya, and,
+ until carried, we could not approach the city on the west without
+ making a circuit too wide and too hazardous.
+
+ In the course of the same night (that of the 11th) heavy
+ batteries, within easy ranges, were established. No. 1, on our
+ right, under the command of Captain Drum, 4th Artillery (relieved
+ late next day, for some hours, by Lieutenant Andrews, of the 3d),
+ and No. 2, commanded by Lieutenant Hagner, Ordnance, both
+ supported by Pillow's division, were commanded, the former, by
+ Captain Brooks and Lieutenant S. S. Anderson, 2d Artillery,
+ alternately, and the latter by Lieutenant Stone, Ordnance. The
+ batteries were traced by Captain Huger and Captain Lee, Engineer,
+ and constructed by them with the able assistance of the young
+ officers of those corps and the Artillery.
+
+ To prepare for an assault, it was foreseen that the play of the
+ batteries might run into the second day; but recent captures had
+ not only trebled our siege-pieces, but also our ammunition; and
+ we knew that we should greatly augment both by carrying the
+ place. I was, therefore, in no haste in ordering an assault
+ before the works were well crippled by our missiles.
+
+ The bombardment and cannonade, under the direction of Captain
+ Huger, were commenced early in the morning of the 12th. Before
+ nightfall, which necessarily stopped our batteries, we had
+ perceived that a good impression had been made on the castle and
+ its outworks, and that a large body of the enemy had remained
+ outside, towards the city, from an early hour to avoid our (p. 327)
+ fire, and to be at hand on its cessation, in order to
+ re-enforce the garrison against an assault. The same outside
+ force was discovered the next morning, after our batteries had
+ re-opened upon the castle, by which we again reduced its garrison
+ to the minimum needed for the guns.
+
+ Pillow and Quitman had been in position since early in the night
+ of the 11th. Major-General Worth was now ordered to hold his
+ division in reserve, near the foundry, to support Pillow; and
+ Brigadier-General Smith, of Twiggs' division, had just arrived
+ with his brigade from Piedad (two miles), to support Quitman.
+ Twiggs' guns, before the southern gates, again reminded us, as
+ the day before, that he, with Riley's brigade, and Taylor's and
+ Steptoe's batteries, was in activity, threatening the southern
+ gates, and there holding a great part of the Mexican army on the
+ defensive.
+
+ Worth's division furnished Pillow's attack with an assaulting
+ party of some two hundred and fifty volunteer officers and men,
+ under Captain McKenzie, of the 2d Artillery; and Twiggs' division
+ supplied a similar one, commanded by Captain Casey, 2d Infantry,
+ to Quitman. Each of these little columns was furnished with
+ scaling ladders.
+
+ The signal I had appointed for the attack was the momentary
+ cessation of fire on the part of our heavy batteries. About 8
+ o'clock in the morning of the 13th, judging that the time had
+ arrived by the effect of the missiles we had thrown, I sent an
+ aid-de-camp to Pillow, and another to Quitman, with notice that
+ the concerted signal was about to be given. Both columns now
+ advanced with an alacrity that gave assurance of prompt success.
+ The batteries, seizing opportunities, threw shots and shells upon
+ the enemy over the heads of our men, with good effect,
+ particularly at every attempt to re-enforce the works from
+ without to meet our assault.
+
+ Major-General Pillow's approach, on the west side, lay through an
+ open grove, filled with sharp-shooters, who were speedily
+ dislodged; when being up with the front of the attack, and
+ emerging into open space, at the foot of a rocky acclivity, that
+ gallant leader was struck down by an agonizing wound. The
+ immediate command devolved on Brigadier-General Cadwallader, in
+ the absence of the senior brigadier (Pierce) of the same
+ division, an invalid since the events of August 19. On a previous
+ call of Pillow, Worth had just sent him a re-enforcement, Colonel
+ Clarke's brigade.
+
+ The broken acclivity was still to be ascended, and a strong
+ redoubt, midway, to be carried, before reaching the castle on the
+ heights. The advance of our brave men, led by brave officers,
+ though necessarily slow, was unwavering, over rocks, chasms, and
+ mines, and under the hottest fire of cannon and musketry. The
+ redoubt now yielded to resistless valor, and the shouts that
+ followed announced to the castle the fate that impended. The
+ enemy were steadily driven from shelter to shelter. The retreat
+ allowed no time to fire a single mine, without the certainty of
+ blowing up friend and foe. Those who at a distance attempted to
+ apply matches to the long trains, were shot down by our men.
+ There was death below, as well as above ground. At length the
+ ditch and wall of the main work was reached; the scaling ladders
+ were brought up and planted by the storming parties; some of the
+ daring spirits first in the assault were cast down, killed or
+ wounded; but a lodgment was soon made; streams of heroes (p. 328)
+ followed; all opposition was overcome, and several of our
+ regimental colors flung out from the upper walls, amidst
+ long-continued shouts and cheers, which sent dismay into the
+ capital. No scene could have been more animating or glorious.
+
+ Major-General Quitman, nobly supported by Brigadier-Generals
+ Shields and Smith, (P. F.,) his other officers and men, was up
+ with the part assigned him. Simultaneously with the movement on
+ the west, he had gallantly approached the southeast of the same
+ works, over a causeway with cuts and batteries, and defended by
+ an army strongly posted outside, to the east of the works. Those
+ formidable obstacles Quitman had to face, with but little shelter
+ for his troops or space for manoeuvring. Deep ditches flanked
+ the causeway, made it difficult to cross on either side into the
+ adjoining meadows, and these again were intersected by other
+ ditches. Smith and his brigade had been early thrown out to make
+ a sweep to the right, in order to present a front against the
+ enemy's lines, (outside,) and to turn two intervening batteries
+ near the foot of Chapultepec. This movement was also intended to
+ support Quitman's storming parties, both on the causeway. The
+ first of these, furnished by Twiggs' division, was commanded in
+ succession by Captain Casey, 2d Infantry, and Captain Paul, 7th
+ Infantry, after Casey had been severely wounded; and the second,
+ originally under the gallant Major Twiggs, Marine Corps, killed,
+ and then Captain Miller, 2d Pennsylvania Volunteers. The storming
+ party, now commanded by Captain Paul, seconded by Captain
+ Roberts, of the Rifles, Lieutenant Stewart, and others of the
+ same regiment, Smith's brigade, carried the two batteries in the
+ road, took some guns, with many prisoners, and drove the enemy
+ posted behind in support. The New York and South Carolina
+ Volunteers (Shields' brigade) and the 2d Pennsylvania Volunteers,
+ all on the left of Quitman's line, together with portions of his
+ storming parties, crossed the meadows in front, under a heavy
+ fire, and entered the outer enclosure of Chapultepec just in time
+ to join in the final assault from the west.
+
+ Besides Major-Generals Pillow and Quitman, Brigadier-Generals
+ Shields, Smith, and Cadwallader, the following are the officers
+ and corps most distinguished in those brilliant operations: The
+ Voltigeur regiment in two detachments, commanded respectively by
+ Colonel Andrews and Lieutenant-Colonel Johnstone, the latter
+ mostly in the lead, accompanied by Major Caldwell; Captains
+ Barnard and Biddle, of the same regiment, the former the first to
+ plant a regimental color, and the latter among the first in the
+ assault; the storming party of Worth's division, under Captain
+ McKenzie, 2d Artillery, with Lieutenant Selden, 8th Infantry,
+ early on the ladder and badly wounded; Lieutenant Armistead, 6th
+ Infantry, the first to leap into the ditch to plant a ladder;
+ Lieutenants Rodgers of the 4th, and J. P. Smith of the 5th
+ Infantry, both mortally wounded; the 9th Infantry, under Colonel
+ Ransom, who was killed while gallantly leading that gallant
+ regiment, the 15th Infantry, under Lieutenant-Colonel Howard and
+ Major Woods, with Captain Chase, whose company gallantly carried
+ the redoubt, midway up the acclivity; Colonel Clarke's brigade
+ (Worth's division) consisting of the 5th, 8th, and part of the
+ 6th regiments of Infantry, commanded respectively by Captain
+ Chapman, Major Montgomery, and Lieutenant Edward Johnson, the
+ latter specially noticed, with Lieutenants Longstreet (badly
+ wounded, advancing, colors in hand), Pickett, and Merchant, the
+ last three of the 8th Infantry; portions of the United States (p. 329)
+ marines, New York, South Carolina, and 2d Pennsylvania
+ Volunteers, which, delayed with their division (Quitman's) by the
+ hot engagement below, arrived just in time to participate in the
+ assault of the heights, particularly a detachment under
+ Lieutenant Reid, New York Volunteers, consisting of a company of
+ the same, with one of marines; and another detachment, a portion
+ of the storming party, (Twiggs' division, serving with Quitman,)
+ under Lieutenant Steele, 2d Infantry, after the fall of
+ Lieutenant Gantt, 7th Infantry.
+
+ In this connection, it is but just to recall the decisive effect
+ of the heavy batteries, Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4, commanded by those
+ excellent officers, Captain Drum, 4th Artillery, assisted by
+ Lieutenants Benjamin and Porter of his own company; Captain
+ Brooks and Lieutenant Anderson, 2d Artillery, assisted by
+ Lieutenant Russell, 4th Infantry, a volunteer; Lieutenants Hagner
+ and Stone of the Ordnance, and Lieutenant Andrews, 3d Artillery;
+ the whole superintended by Captain Huger, chief of Ordnance with
+ this army, an officer distinguished by every kind of merit. The
+ mountain howitzer battery, under Lieutenant Reno, of the
+ Ordnance, deserves, also, to be particularly mentioned. Attached
+ to the Voltigeurs, it followed the movements of that regiment,
+ and again won applause.
+
+ In adding to the list of individuals of conspicuous merit, I must
+ limit myself to a few of the many names which might be
+ enumerated. Captain Hooker, assistant adjutant-general, who won
+ special applause, successively, in the staff of Pillow and
+ Cadwallader; Lieutenant Lovell, 4th Artillery (wounded), chief of
+ Quitman's staff; Captain Page, assistant adjutant-general
+ (wounded), and Lieutenant Hammond, 3d Artillery, both of Shields'
+ staff, and Lieutenant Van Dorn (17th Infantry), aid-de-camp to
+ Brigadier-General Smith.
+
+ Those operations all occurred on the west, southeast, and heights
+ of Chapultepec. To the north and at the base of the mound,
+ inaccessible on that side, the 11th Infantry, under
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Hebert, the 14th, under Colonel Trousdale, and
+ Captain Magruder's field battery, 1st Artillery: one section
+ advanced under Lieutenant Jackson, all of Pillow's division, had,
+ at the same time, some spirited affairs against superior numbers,
+ driving the enemy from a battery in the road, and capturing a
+ gun. In these, the officers and corps named gained merited
+ praise. Colonel Trousdale, the commander, though twice wounded,
+ continued on duty until the heights were carried.
+
+ Early in the morning of the 13th, I repeated the orders of the
+ night before to Major-General Worth, to be, with his division, at
+ hand to support the movement of Major-General Pillow from our
+ left. The latter seems soon to have called for that entire
+ division, standing momentarily in reserve, and Worth sent him
+ Colonel Clarke's brigade. The call, if not unnecessary, was at
+ least, from the circumstances, unknown to me at the time; for,
+ soon observing that the very large body of the enemy, in the road
+ in front of Major-General Quitman's right, was receiving
+ re-enforcements from the city, less than a mile and a half to the
+ east, I sent instructions to Worth, on our opposite flank, to
+ turn Chapultepec with his division, and to proceed cautiously by
+ the road at its northern base, in order, if not met by very
+ superior numbers, to threaten or to attack, in rear, that body of
+ the enemy. The movement, it was also believed, could not fail to
+ distract and to intimidate the enemy generally.
+
+ Worth promptly advanced with his remaining brigade, Colonel (p. 330)
+ Garland's, Lieutenant-Colonel C. F. Smith's light battalion,
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Duncan's field battery, all of his division,
+ and three squadrons of dragoons, under Major Sumner, which I
+ had just ordered up to join in the movement.
+
+ Having turned the forest on the west, and arriving opposite to
+ the north centre of Chapultepec, Worth came up with the troops in
+ the road, under Colonel Trousdale, and aided, by a flank movement
+ of a part of Garland's brigade, in taking the one gun breastwork,
+ then under the fire of Lieutenant Jackson's section of Captain
+ Magruder's field battery. Continuing to advance, this division
+ passed Chapultepec, attacking the right of the enemy's line,
+ resting on that road, about the moment of the general retreat
+ consequent upon the capture of the formidable castle and its
+ outworks.
+
+ Arriving some minutes later, and mounting to the top of the
+ castle, the whole field to the east lay plainly under my view.
+
+ There are two routes from Chapultepec to the capital, the one on
+ the right entering the same gate, Belen, with the road from the
+ south, via Piedad; and the other obliquing to the left, to
+ intersect the great western or San Cosmo road, in a suburb
+ outside of the gate of San Cosmo.
+
+ Each of these routes (an elevated causeway) presents a double
+ roadway on the sides of an aqueduct of strong masonry and great
+ height, resting on open arches and massive pillars, which
+ together afford fine points both for attack and defence. The
+ sideways of both aqueducts are, moreover, defended by many strong
+ breastworks at the gates, and before reaching them. As we had
+ expected, we found the four tracks unusually dry and solid for
+ the season.
+
+ Worth and Quitman were prompt in pursuing the retreating enemy,
+ the former by the San Cosmo aqueduct, and the latter along that
+ of Belen. Each had now advanced some hundred yards.
+
+ Deeming it all important to profit by our successes, and the
+ consequent dismay of the enemy, which could not be otherwise than
+ general, I hastened to dispatch from Chapultepec, first Clarke's
+ brigade, and then Cadwallader's, to the support of Worth, and
+ gave orders that the necessary heavy guns should follow. Pierce's
+ brigade was, at the same time, sent to Quitman, and, in the
+ course of the afternoon, I caused some additional siege pieces to
+ be added to his train. Then, after designating the 15th Infantry,
+ under Lieutenant-Colonel Howard (Morgan, the Colonel, had been
+ disabled by a wound at Churubusco), as the garrison of
+ Chapultepec, and giving directions for the care of the prisoners
+ of war, the captured ordnance and ordnance stores, I proceeded to
+ join the advance of Worth, within the suburb, and beyond the turn
+ at the junction of the aqueduct with the great highway from the
+ west to the gate of San Cosmo.
+
+ At this junction of roads, we first passed one of these
+ formidable systems of city defences, spoken of above, and it had
+ not a gun! a strong proof, 1. That the enemy had expected us to
+ fail in the attack upon Chapultepec, even if we meant anything
+ more than a feint; 2. That, in either case, we designed, in his
+ belief, to return and double our forces against the southern
+ gates: a delusion kept up by the active demonstration of Twiggs
+ and the forces posted on that side; and, 3. That advancing
+ rapidly from the reduction of Chapultepec, the enemy had not
+ time to shift guns--our previous captures had left him, (p. 331)
+ comparatively, but few--from the southern gates.
+
+ Within those disgarnished works, I found our troops engaged in a
+ street fight against the enemy posted in gardens, at windows, and
+ on house-tops, all flat, with parapets. Worth ordered forward the
+ mountain howitzers of Cadwallader's brigade, preceded by
+ skirmishers and pioneers with pickaxes and crowbars, to force
+ windows and doors, or to burrow through walls. The assailants
+ were soon in an equality of position fatal to the enemy. By eight
+ o'clock in the evening, Worth had carried two batteries in this
+ suburb. According to my instructions, he here posted guards and
+ sentinels, and placed his troops under shelter for the night.
+ There was but one more obstacle, the San Cosmo gate,
+ (custom-house,) between him and the great square in front of the
+ cathedral and palace, the heart of the city; and that barrier it
+ was known could not, by daylight, resist our siege guns thirty
+ minutes.
+
+ I had gone back to the foot of Chapultepec, the point from which
+ the two aqueducts begin to diverge, some hours earlier, in order
+ to be near that new depot, and in easy communication with Quitman
+ and Twiggs, as well as with Worth.
+
+ From this point I ordered all detachments and stragglers to their
+ respective corps, then in advance; sent to Quitman additional
+ siege guns, ammunition, intrenching tools; directed Twiggs'
+ remaining brigade, Riley's from Piedad, to support Worth, and
+ Captain Steptoe's field battery, also at Piedad, to rejoin
+ Quitman's division.
+
+ I had been, from the first, well aware that the western or San
+ Cosmo, was the less difficult route to the centre, and conquest
+ of the capital, and therefore intended that Quitman should only
+ manoeuvre and threaten the Belen or southwestern gate, in order
+ to favor the main attack by Worth, knowing that the strong
+ defences at the Belen were directly under the guns of the much
+ stronger fortress, called the citadel, just within. Both of these
+ defences of the enemy were also within easy supporting distance
+ from San Angel (or Nino Perdido) and San Antonio gates. Hence the
+ greater support, in numbers, given to Worth's movement as the
+ main attack.
+
+ These views I repeatedly, in the course of the day, communicated
+ to Major-General Quitman; but being in hot pursuit, gallant
+ himself, and ably supported by Brigadier-Generals Shields and
+ Smith, Shields badly wounded before Chapultepec, and refusing to
+ retire, as well as by all the officers and men of the column,
+ Quitman continued to press forward, under flank and direct fires,
+ carried an intermediate battery of two guns, and then the gate,
+ before two o'clock in the afternoon, but not without
+ proportionate loss, increased by his steady maintenance of that
+ position.
+
+ Here, of the heavy battery, (4th Artillery,) Captain Drum and
+ Lieutenant Benjamin were mortally wounded, and Lieutenant Porter,
+ its third in rank, slightly. The loss of those two most
+ distinguished officers the army will long mourn. Lieutenants J.
+ B. Morange and William Canty, of the South Carolina Volunteers,
+ also of high merit, fell on the same occasion, besides many of
+ our bravest non-commissioned officers and men, particularly in
+ Captain Drum's veteran company. I cannot, in this place, give
+ names or numbers; but full returns of the killed and wounded, of
+ all corps, in their recent operations, will accompany this
+ report.
+
+ Quitman within the city, adding several new defences to the
+ position he had won, and sheltering his corps as well as
+ practicable, now awaited the return of daylight under the guns of
+ the formidable citadel, yet to be subdued.
+
+ About 4 o'clock next morning (September 14th) a deputation (p. 332)
+ of the _ayuntamiento_ (city council) waited upon me to report
+ that the federal government and the army of Mexico had fled
+ from the capital some three hours before; and to demand
+ terms of capitulation in favor of the church, the citizens, and
+ the municipal authorities. I promptly replied that I would sign
+ no capitulation; that the city had been virtually in our
+ possession from the time of the lodgments effected by Worth and
+ Quitman the day before; that I regretted the silent escape of the
+ Mexican army; that I should levy upon the city a moderate
+ contribution, for special purposes; and that the American army
+ should come under no terms not self-imposed: such only as its own
+ honor, the dignity of the United States, and the spirit of the
+ age, should, in my opinion, imperiously demand and impose.
+
+ For the terms, so imposed, I refer the department to subsequent
+ General Orders, Nos. 287 and 289 (paragraphs 7, 8, and 9 of the
+ latter), copies of which are herewith enclosed.
+
+ At the termination of the interview with the city deputation, I
+ communicated, about daylight, orders to Worth and Quitman to
+ advance slowly and cautiously (to guard against treachery)
+ towards the heart of the city, and to occupy its stronger and
+ more commanding points. Quitman proceeded to the great plaza or
+ square, planted guards, and hoisted the colors of the United
+ States on the national palace, containing the halls of Congress
+ and executive departments of Federal Mexico. In this grateful
+ service Quitman might have been anticipated by Worth, but for my
+ express orders, halting the latter at the head of the Alameda (a
+ green park), within three squares of that goal of general
+ ambition. The capital, however, was not taken by any one or two
+ corps, but by the talent, the science, the gallantry, the prowess
+ of this entire army. In the glorious conquest all had
+ contributed, early and powerfully, the killed, the wounded, and
+ the fit for duty, at Vera Cruz, Cerro-Gordo, Contreras, San
+ Antonio, Churubusco, (three battles,) the Molinos del Rey, and
+ Chapultepec, as much as those who fought at the gates of Belen
+ and San Cosmo.
+
+ Soon after we had entered, and were in the act of occupying the
+ city, a fire was opened upon us from the flat roofs of the
+ houses, from windows and corners of streets, by some two thousand
+ convicts, liberated the night before by the flying government,
+ joined by perhaps as many Mexican soldiers, who had disbanded
+ themselves and thrown off their uniforms. This unlawful war
+ lasted more than twenty-four hours, in spite of the exertions of
+ the municipal authorities, and was not put down till we had lost
+ many men, including several officers, killed or wounded, and had
+ punished the miscreants. Their objects were to gratify national
+ hatred, and in the general alarm and confusion, to plunder the
+ wealthy inhabitants, particularly the deserted houses. But
+ families are now generally returning; business of every kind has
+ been resumed, and the city is already tranquil and cheerful,
+ under the admirable conduct (with exceptions very few and
+ trifling) of our gallant troops.
+
+ This army has been more disgusted than surprised that by some
+ sinister process on the part of certain individuals at home, its
+ numbers have been, generally, almost trebled in our public
+ papers, beginning at Washington.
+
+ Leaving, as we all feared, inadequate garrisons at Vera Cruz,
+ Perote, and Puebla, with much larger hospitals; and being
+ obliged, most reluctantly, from the same cause (general (p. 333)
+ paucity of numbers) to abandon Jalapa, we marched (August 7-10)
+ from Puebla with only 10,738 rank and file. This number includes
+ the garrison of Jalapa, and the 2,429 men brought up by
+ Brigadier-General Pierce, August 6.
+
+ At Contreras, Churubusco, etc. (August 20), we had but 8,497 men
+ engaged, after deducting the garrison of San Augustin (our
+ general depot), the intermediate sick and the dead; at the
+ Molinos del Rey (September 8), but three brigades, with some
+ cavalry and artillery, making in all 3,251 men, were in battle;
+ in the two days, September 12th and 13th, our whole operating
+ force, after deducting again the recent killed, wounded, and
+ sick, together with the garrison of Miscoac (the then general
+ depot) and that of Tacubaya, was but 7,180; and, finally, after
+ deducting the new garrison of Chapultepec, with the killed and
+ wounded of the two days, we took possession (September 14th) of
+ this great capital with less than 6,000 men. And I re-assert,
+ upon accumulated and unquestionable evidence, that, in not one of
+ those conflicts was this army opposed by fewer than three and a
+ half times its numbers, in several of them, by a yet greater
+ excess. I recapitulate our losses since we arrived in the basin
+ of Mexico.
+
+ _August 19-20._ Killed, 137, including 14 officers. Wounded, 877,
+ including 62 officers. Missing (probably killed), 38 rank and
+ file. Total 1,052.
+
+ _September 8._ Killed, 116, including 9 officers. Wounded, 665,
+ including 49 officers. Missing, 18 rank and file. Total 789.
+
+ _September 12, 13, 14._ Killed, 130, including 10 officers.
+ Wounded, 703, including 68 officers. Missing, 29 rank and file.
+ Total 862.
+
+ Grand total of losses, 2,703, including 383 officers.
+
+ On the other hand, this small force has beaten on the same
+ occasions in view of their capital, the whole Mexican army, of
+ (at the beginning) thirty odd thousand men; posted always in
+ chosen positions, behind intrenchments, or more formidable
+ defences of nature and art; killed or wounded, of that number,
+ more than 7,000 officers and men; taken 3,730 prisoners,
+ one-seventh officers, including 13 generals, of whom 3 have been
+ presidents of this republic; captured more than 20 colors and
+ standards, 75 pieces of ordnance, besides 57 wall pieces, 20,000
+ small arms, an immense quantity of shots, shells, powder, &c.,
+ &c.
+
+ Of that enemy, once so formidable in numbers, appointments,
+ artillery, &c., twenty odd thousand have disbanded themselves in
+ despair, leaving, as is known, not more than three fragments, the
+ largest about 2,500, now wandering in different directions,
+ without magazines or a military chest, and living at free
+ quarters upon their own people.
+
+ General Santa Anna, himself a fugitive, is believed to be on the
+ point of resigning the chief magistracy, and escaping to neutral
+ Guatemala. A new president, no doubt, will soon be declared, and
+ the federal Congress is expected to reassemble at Queretaro, 125
+ miles north of this, on the Zacatecas road, some time in October.
+ I have seen and given safe conduct through this city to several
+ of its members. The government will find itself without
+ resources; no army, no arsenals, no magazines, and but little
+ revenue, internal or external. Still, such is the obstinacy, or
+ rather infatuation, of this people, that it is very doubtful
+ whether the new authorities will dare to sue for peace on terms
+ which in the recent negotiations were made known by our minister.
+
+ In conclusion, I beg to enumerate, once more, with due (p. 334)
+ commendation and thanks, the distinguished staff officers,
+ general and personal, who, in our last operations in front of the
+ enemy, accompanied me, and communicated orders to every point and
+ through every danger. Lieutenant-Colonel Hitchcock, Acting
+ Inspector-General, Major Turnbull and Lieutenant Hardcastle,
+ Topographical Engineers; Major Kirby, Chief Paymaster; Captain
+ Irwin, Chief Quartermaster; Captain Grayson, Chief Commissary;
+ Captain H. L. Scott, Chief in the Adjutant-General's Department;
+ Lieutenant Williams, Aid-de-Camp; Lieutenant Lay, Military
+ Secretary; and Major J. P. Gaines, Kentucky Cavalry, volunteer
+ Aid-de-Camp; Captain Lee, Engineer, so constantly distinguished,
+ also bore important orders from me (September 13), until he
+ fainted from a wound and the loss of two nights' sleep at the
+ batteries. Lieutenants Beauregard, Stevens and Tower, all
+ wounded, were employed with the divisions, and Lieutenants G. W.
+ Smith and G. B. McClellan, with the company of sappers and
+ miners. Those fine Lieutenants of Engineers, like their Captain,
+ won the admiration of all about them. The ordnance officers,
+ Captain Huger, Lieutenants Hagner, Stone, and Reno, were highly
+ effective, and distinguished at the several batteries; and I must
+ add that Captain McKinstry, Assistant Quartermaster, at the close
+ of the operations, executed several important commissions for me
+ as a special volunteer.
+
+ Surgeon-General Lawson, and the medical staff generally, were
+ skillful and untiring, in and out of fire, in ministering to the
+ numerous wounded.
+
+ To illustrate the operations in this basin, I enclose two
+ beautiful drawings, prepared under the directions of Major
+ Turnbull, mostly from actual surveys.
+
+ I have the honor to be, Sir, with high respect, your most
+ obedient servant,
+ Winfield SCOTT.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Orders No. 286._
+
+ Head-quarters of the Army,
+ National Palace of Mexico, September, 1847.
+
+ The general-in-chief calls upon his brethren in arms to return,
+ both in public and in private worship, thanks and gratitude to
+ God for the signal triumphs which they have recently achieved for
+ their country.
+
+ Beginning with the 19th of August, and ending the 14th instant,
+ this army has gallantly fought its way through the fields and
+ forts of Contreras, San Antonio, Churubusco, Molinos del Rey,
+ Chapultepec, and the gates of San Cosmo and Tacubaya or Belen,
+ into the capital of Mexico.
+
+ When the very limited numbers who have performed those brilliant
+ deeds shall have become known, the whole world will be
+ astonished, and our own countrymen filled with joy and
+ admiration.
+
+ But all is not yet done. The enemy, though scattered and (p. 335)
+ dismayed, has still many fragments of his late army hovering
+ about us, and aided by an exasperated population, he may again
+ reunite in treble our numbers, and fall upon us to advantage if
+ we rest inactive on the security of past victories.
+
+ Compactness, vigilance, and discipline are, therefore, our only
+ securities. Let every good officer and man look to those cautions
+ and enjoin them upon all others.
+
+ By command of Major-General Scott,
+ H. L. SCOTT,
+ _Acting Adjutant-General_.
+
+
+
+No. 63. (p. 336)
+PLATE LXIV.
+
+
+_February 22 and 23, 1847._
+
+ Major General Zachary Taylor, etc. [Rx]. Buena Vista Feb 22. &.
+ 23. 1847.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ZACHARY TAYLOR.
+
+[_Victory of Buena Vista._]
+
+MAJOR GENERAL ZACHARY TAYLOR. RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS: MAY 9. 1848.
+Undraped bust of General Taylor, facing the right; underneath,
+branches of oak and laurel, S. ELLIS. DEL. (_delineavit._) C. C.
+WRIGHT. F. (_fecit_).
+
+BUENA VISTA FEB. 22. & 23. 1847. Within a circle formed by two
+serpents, one of which is a rattlesnake, the American army, commanded
+by General Taylor, is repulsing the attack of the Mexicans. Beneath
+are branches of cactus and oak. F. A. SMITH DEL. (_delineavit._) C. C.
+WRIGHT SCULP. (_sculpsit_).
+
+
+FREDERIC AUGUSTUS SMITH was graduated at West Point as second
+lieutenant of engineers, July 1, 1833. He was appointed captain, July,
+1838, and died in Washington, District of Columbia, October 16, 1852.
+He designed the reverse of the medal to Major-General Taylor for Buena
+Vista.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to General Taylor._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ thanks of Congress are due, and they are hereby tendered to
+ Major-General Zachary Taylor, and, through him, to the officers
+ and soldiers of the regular army and of the volunteers under (p. 337)
+ his command, for their valor, skill, and good conduct,
+ conspicuously displayed, on the twenty-second and twenty-third
+ days of February last, in the battle of Buena Vista, in defeating
+ a Mexican army of more than four times their number, consisting
+ of chosen troops, under their favorite commander, General Santa
+ Anna.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to cause to be struck a gold medal, with devices emblematical of
+ this splendid achievement, and presented to Major-General Zachary
+ Taylor, as a testimony of the high sense entertained by Congress
+ of his judicious and distinguished conduct on that memorable
+ occasion.
+
+ _Resolved_, That the President of the United States be requested
+ to cause the foregoing resolutions to be communicated to
+ Major-General Taylor in such terms as he may deem best calculated
+ to give effect to the object thereof.
+
+ Approved May 9, 1848.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Taylor to the Adjutant-General of the Army._
+
+ To Headquarters, Army of Occupation,
+ THE ADJUTANT-GENERAL OF THE ARMY, Agua Nueva, March 6, 1847.
+ Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to submit a detailed report of the
+ operations of the forces under my command, which resulted in the
+ engagement of Buena Vista, the repulse of the Mexican army, and
+ the re-occupation of this position.
+
+ The information which reached me of the advance and concentration
+ of a heavy Mexican force in my front, had assumed such a probable
+ form, as to induce a special examination far beyond the reach of
+ our pickets to ascertain its correctness. A small party of Texan
+ spies, under Major McCulloch, dispatched to the hacienda of
+ Encarnacion, thirty miles from this, on the route to San Louis
+ Potosi, had reported a cavalry force of unknown strength at that
+ place. On the 20th of February, a strong reconnoissance under
+ Lieutenant-Colonel May was dispatched to the hacienda of
+ Heclionda, while Major McCulloch made another examination of
+ Encarnacion. The result of these expeditions left no doubt that
+ the enemy was in large force at Encarnacion, under the orders of
+ General Santa Anna, and that he meditated a forward movement, and
+ attack upon our position.
+
+ As the camp of Agua Nueva could be turned on either flank, and as
+ the enemy's force was greatly superior to our own, particularly
+ in the arm of cavalry, I determined, after much consideration, to
+ take up a position about eleven miles in rear, and there await
+ the attack. The army broke up its camp and marched at noon on the
+ 21st, encamping at the new position a little in front of the
+ hacienda of Buena Vista. With a small force I proceeded to (p. 338)
+ Saltillo, to make some necessary arrangements for the defence
+ of the town, leaving Brigadier-General Wool in the immediate
+ command of the troops.
+
+ Before those arrangements were completed, on the morning of the
+ 22d, I was advised that the enemy was in sight, advancing. Upon
+ reaching the ground, it was found that his cavalry advance was in
+ our front, having marched from Encarnacion, as we have since
+ learned, at eleven o'clock on the day previous, and driving in a
+ mounted force, left Agua Nueva to cover the removal of public
+ stores. Our troops were in position, occupying a line of
+ remarkable strength. The road at this point becomes a narrow
+ defile, the valley on its right being rendered quite
+ impracticable for artillery by a system of deep and impassable
+ gullies, while on the left a succession of rugged ridges and
+ precipitous ravines extends far back toward the mountain which
+ bounds the valley. The features of the ground were such as nearly
+ to paralyze the artillery and cavalry of the enemy, while his
+ infantry could not derive all the advantages of its numerical
+ superiority. In this position we prepared to receive him. Captain
+ Washington's battery (4th Artillery) was posted to command the
+ road, while the 1st and 2d Illinois regiments, under Colonels
+ Hardin and Bissell, each eight companies (to the latter of which
+ was attached Captain Conner's company of Texas Volunteers), and
+ the 2d Kentucky, under Colonel McKee, occupied the crests of the
+ ridges on the left and in rear. The Arkansas and Kentucky
+ regiments of cavalry, commanded by Colonels Yell and H. Marshall,
+ occupied the extreme left near the base of the mountain, while
+ the Indiana brigade, under Brigadier-General Lane (composed of
+ the 2d and 3d regiments, under Colonels Bowles and Lane), the
+ Mississippi riflemen, under Colonel Davis, the squadrons of the
+ 1st and 2d Dragoons, under Captain Steen and Lieutenant-Colonel
+ May, and the light batteries of Captains Sherman and Bragg, 3d
+ Artillery, were held in reserve.
+
+ At eleven o'clock I received from General Santa Anna the
+ following summons to surrender at discretion:
+
+ "Camp at Encantada, February 22d, 1847.
+
+
+ "To
+ "GENERAL Z. TAYLOR,
+ "Commanding the Forces of the United States.
+ "God and Liberty!
+
+ "You are surrounded by 20,000 men, and cannot, in any human
+ probability, avoid suffering a route, and being cut to pieces
+ with your troops; but as you deserve consideration and particular
+ esteem, I wish to save you from a catastrophe, and for that
+ purpose give you this notice, in order that you may surrender at
+ discretion, under the assurance that you will be treated with the
+ consideration belonging to the Mexican character, to which end
+ you will be granted an hour's time to make up your mind, to
+ commence from the moment when my flag of truce arrives in your
+ camp.
+
+ "With this view, I assure you of my particular consideration,
+
+ "Antonio LOPEZ DE SANTA ANNA."
+
+
+ To this summons I immediately replied in these terms: (p. 339)
+
+ "Headquarters, Army Of Occupation,
+ "Near Buena Vista, February 22, 1847.
+
+ "SENOR GENERAL DON ANTONIO LOPEZ DE SANTA ANNA,
+ "Commander-in-Chief, La Encantada.
+
+ "Sir: In reply to your note of this date, summoning me to
+ surrender my forces at discretion, I beg leave to say that I
+ decline acceding to your request.
+
+ "With high respect, I am, Sir, your obedient servant,
+ "Z. TAYLOR,
+ "_Major-General United States Army_, _commanding_."
+
+ The enemy still forbore his attack, evidently waiting for the
+ arrival of his rear columns, which could be distinctly seen by
+ our look-outs as they approached the field. A demonstration made
+ on his left caused me to detach the 2d Kentucky regiment and a
+ section of artillery to our right, in which position they
+ bivouacked for the night. In the mean time the Mexican light
+ troops had engaged ours on the extreme left (composed of parts of
+ the Kentucky and Arkansas cavalry dismounted, and a rifle
+ battalion from the Indiana brigade, under Major Gorman, the whole
+ commanded by Colonel Marshall), and kept up a sharp fire,
+ climbing the mountain side, and apparently endeavoring to gain
+ our flank. Three pieces of Captain Washington's battery had been
+ detached to the left, and were supported by the 2d Indiana
+ regiment. An occasional shell was thrown by the enemy into this
+ part of our line, but without effect. The skirmishing of the
+ light troops was kept up with trifling loss on our part until
+ dark, when I became convinced that no serious attack would be
+ made before the morning, and returned, with the Mississippi
+ regiment and squadron of 2d Dragoons, to Saltillo. The troops
+ bivouacked without fires, and laid upon their arms. A body of
+ cavalry, some 1500 strong, had been visible all day in rear of
+ the town, having entered the valley through a narrow pass east of
+ the city. This cavalry, commanded by General Minon, had evidently
+ been thrown in our rear to break up and harass our retreat, and
+ perhaps make some attempt against the town if practicable. The
+ city was occupied by four excellent companies of Illinois
+ volunteers, under Major Warren of the 1st regiment. A field-work,
+ which commanded most of the approaches, was garrisoned by Captain
+ Webster's company, 1st Artillery, and armed with two
+ twenty-four-pound howitzers, while the train and headquarter camp
+ was guarded by two companies of Mississippi riflemen, under
+ Captain Rogers, and a field-piece commanded by Captain Shover, 3d
+ Artillery. Having made these dispositions for the protection of
+ the rear, I proceeded on the morning of the 23d to Buena Vista,
+ ordering forward all the other available troops. The action had
+ commenced before my arrival on the field.
+
+ During the evening and night of the 22d, the enemy had thrown a
+ body of light troops on the mountain side, with the purpose of
+ outflanking our left; and it was here that the action of the 23d
+ commenced at an early hour. Our riflemen, under Colonel Marshall,
+ who had been re-enforced by three companies, under Major Trail,
+ 2d Illinois Volunteers, maintained their ground handsomely
+ against a greatly superior force, holding themselves under (p. 340)
+ cover, and using their weapons with deadly effect. About
+ eight o'clock a strong demonstration was made against the centre
+ of our position, a heavy column moving along the road. This force
+ was soon dispersed by a few rapid and well-directed shots from
+ Captain Washington's battery. In the mean time the enemy was
+ concentrating a large force of infantry and cavalry under cover
+ of the ridges, with the obvious intention of forcing our left,
+ which was posted on an extensive plateau. The 2d Indiana and 2d
+ Illinois regiments formed this part of our line, the former
+ covering three pieces of light artillery, under the orders of
+ Captain O'Brien, Brigadier-General Lane being in the immediate
+ command. In order to bring his men within effective range,
+ General Lane ordered the artillery and 2d Indiana regiment
+ forward. The artillery advanced within musket range of a heavy
+ body of Mexican infantry, and was served against it with great
+ effect, but without being able to check its advance. The infantry
+ ordered to its support had fallen back in disorder, being
+ exposed, as well as the battery, not only to a severe fire of
+ small arms from the front, but also to a murderous cross-fire of
+ grape and canister from a Mexican battery on the left. Captain
+ O'Brien found it impossible to retain his position without
+ support, but was only able to withdraw two of his pieces, all the
+ horses and cannoneers of the third piece being killed or
+ disabled. The 2d Indiana regiment, which had fallen back as
+ stated, could not be rallied, and took no further part in the
+ action, except a handful of men, who, under its gallant colonel,
+ Bowles, joined the Mississippi regiment; and did good service,
+ and those fugitives who, at a later period in the day, assisted
+ in defending the train and depot at Buena Vista. This portion of
+ our line having given way, and the enemy appearing in
+ overwhelming force against our left flank, the light troops which
+ had rendered such good service on the mountain were compelled to
+ withdraw, which they did, for the most part, in good order. Many,
+ however, were not rallied until they reached the depot at Buena
+ Vista, to the defence of which they afterward contributed.
+
+ Colonel Bissell's regiment (2d Illinois) which had been joined by
+ a section of Captain Sherman's battery, had become completely
+ outflanked, and was compelled to fall back, being entirely
+ unsupported. The enemy was now pouring masses of infantry and
+ cavalry along the base of the mountain on our left, and was
+ gaining our rear in great force. At this moment I arrived upon
+ the field. The Mississippi regiment had been directed to the left
+ before reaching the position, and immediately came into action
+ against the Mexican infantry which had turned our flank. The 2d
+ Kentucky regiment, and a section of artillery under Captain
+ Bragg, had previously been ordered from the right to re-enforce
+ our left, and arrived at a most opportune moment. That regiment,
+ and a portion of the 1st Illinois, under Colonel Hardin,
+ gallantly drove the enemy, and recovered a portion of the ground
+ we had lost. The batteries of Captains Sherman and Bragg were in
+ position on the plateau, and did much execution, not only in
+ front, but particularly upon the masses which had gained our
+ rear. Discovering that the enemy was heavily pressing upon the
+ Mississippi regiment, the 3d Indiana regiment, under Colonel
+ Lane, was despatched to strengthen that part of the line, which
+ formed a crotchet perpendicular to the first line of battle. At
+ the same time Lieutenant Kilburn, with a piece of Captain Bragg's
+ battery, was directed to support the infantry there engaged. The
+ action was, for a long time, warmly sustained at that point, (p. 341)
+ the enemy making several efforts, both with infantry and
+ cavalry, against our line, and being always repulsed with heavy
+ loss. I had placed all the regular cavalry, and Captain Pike's
+ squadron of Arkansas horse, under the orders of Brevet
+ Lieutenant-Colonel May, with directions to hold in check the
+ enemy's column, still advancing to the rear along the base of the
+ mountain, which was done in conjunction with the Kentucky and
+ Arkansas cavalry under Colonels Marshall and Yell.
+
+ In the mean time our left, which was still strongly threatened by
+ a superior force, was farther strengthened by the detachment of
+ Captain Bragg's, and a portion of Captain Sherman's batteries to
+ that quarter. The concentration of artillery fire upon the masses
+ of the enemy along the base of the mountain, and the determined
+ resistance offered by the two regiments opposed to them, had
+ created confusion in their ranks, and some of the corps attempted
+ to effect a retreat upon their main line of battle. The squadron
+ of the 1st Dragoons, under Lieutenant Rucker, was now ordered up
+ the deep ravine which these retreating corps were endeavoring to
+ cross, in order to charge and disperse them. The squadron
+ proceeded to the point indicated, but could not accomplish the
+ object, being exposed to a heavy fire from a battery established
+ to cover the retreat of those corps. While the squadron was
+ detached on this service, a large body of the enemy was observed
+ to concentrate on our extreme left, apparently with the view of
+ making a descent upon the hacienda of Buena Vista, where our
+ train and baggage were deposited. Lieutenant-Colonel May was
+ ordered to the support of that point, with two pieces of Captain
+ Sherman's battery under Lieutenant Reynolds. In the mean time,
+ the scattered forces near the hacienda, composed in part of
+ Majors Trail and Gorman's commands, had been, to some extent,
+ organized under the advice of Major Munroe, chief of artillery,
+ with the assistance of Major Morrison, volunteer staff, and were
+ posted to defend the position. Before our cavalry had reached the
+ hacienda, that of the enemy had made its attack; having been
+ handsomely met by the Kentucky and Arkansas cavalry under
+ Colonels Marshall and Yell. The Mexican column immediately
+ divided, one portion sweeping by the depot, where it received a
+ destructive fire from the force which had collected there, and
+ then gaining the mountain opposite, under a fire from Lieutenant
+ Reynolds' section, the remaining portion regaining the base of
+ the mountain on our left. In the charge at Buena Vista, Colonel
+ Yell fell gallantly at the head of his regiment; we also lost
+ Adjutant Vaughan, of the Kentucky cavalry, a young officer of
+ much promise. Lieutenant-Colonel May, who had been rejoined by
+ the squadron of the 1st Dragoons, and by portions of the Arkansas
+ and Indiana troops, under Lieutenant-Colonel Roane and Major
+ Gorman, now approached the base of the mountain, holding in check
+ the right flank of the enemy, upon whose masses, crowded in the
+ narrow gorges and ravines, our artillery was doing fearful
+ execution.
+
+ The position of that portion of the Mexican army which had gained
+ our rear was now very critical, and it seemed doubtful whether it
+ could regain the main body. At this moment I received from
+ General Santa Anna a message by a staff officer, desiring to know
+ what I wanted. I immediately dispatched Brigadier-General Wool to
+ the Mexican general-in-chief and sent orders to cease firing.
+ Upon reaching the Mexican lines, General Wool could not cause the
+ enemy to cease their fire, and accordingly returned without (p. 342)
+ having an interview. The extreme right of the enemy continued its
+ retreat along the base of the mountain, and finally, in spite
+ of all our efforts, effected a junction with the remainder of
+ the army.
+
+ During the day, the cavalry of General Minon had ascended the
+ elevated plain above Saltillo, and occupied the road from the
+ city to the field of battle, where they intercepted several of
+ our men. Approaching the town, they were fired upon by Captain
+ Webster from the redoubt occupied by his company, and then moved
+ off towards the eastern side of the valley, and obliquely toward
+ Buena Vista. At this time Captain Shover moved rapidly forward
+ with his piece, supported by a miscellaneous command of mounted
+ volunteers, and fired several shots at the cavalry with great
+ effect. They were driven into the ravines which lead to the lower
+ valley, closely pursued by Captain Shover, who was farther
+ supported by a piece of Captain Webster's battery, under
+ Lieutenant Donaldson, which had advanced from the redoubt,
+ supported by Captain Wheeler's company of Illinois volunteers.
+ The enemy made one or two efforts to charge the artillery, but
+ was finally driven back in a confused mass, and did not again
+ appear upon the plain.
+
+ In the mean time, the firing had partially ceased upon the
+ principal field. The enemy seemed to confine his efforts to the
+ protection of his artillery, and I had left the plateau for a
+ moment, when I was recalled thither by a very heavy musketry
+ fire. On regaining that position, I discovered that our infantry
+ (Illinois and 2d Kentucky) had engaged a greatly superior force
+ of the enemy, evidently his reserve, and that they had been
+ overwhelmed by numbers. The moment was most critical. Captain
+ O'Brien, with two pieces, had sustained this heavy charge to the
+ last, and was finally obliged to leave his guns on the field, his
+ infantry support being entirely routed. Captain Bragg, who had
+ just arrived from the left, was ordered at once into battery.
+ Without any infantry to support him, and at the imminent risk of
+ losing his guns, this officer came rapidly into action, the
+ Mexican line being but a few yards from the muzzles of his
+ pieces. The first discharge of canister caused the enemy to
+ hesitate, the second and third drove him back in disorder, and
+ saved the day. The 2d Kentucky regiment, which had advanced
+ beyond supporting distance in this affair, was driven back and
+ closely pressed by the enemy's cavalry. Taking a ravine which led
+ in the direction of Captain Washington's battery, their pursuers
+ became exposed to his fire, which soon checked and drove them
+ back with loss. In the mean time, the rest of our artillery had
+ taken position on the plateau, covered by the Mississippi and 3d
+ Indiana regiments, the former of which had reached the ground in
+ time to pour a fire into the right flank of the enemy, and thus
+ contribute to his repulse. In this last conflict we had the
+ misfortune to sustain a very heavy loss. Colonel Hardin, 1st
+ Illinois, and Colonel McKee and Lieutenant-Colonel Clay, 2d
+ Kentucky regiment, fell at this time while gallantly leading
+ their commands.
+
+ No further attempt was made by the enemy to force our position,
+ and the approach of night gave an opportunity to pay proper
+ attention to the wounded, and also to refresh the soldiers, who
+ had been exhausted by incessant watchfulness and combat. Though
+ the night was severely cold, the troops were compelled for the
+ most to bivouack without fires, expecting that morning would
+ renew the conflict. During the night the wounded were removed to
+ Saltillo, and every preparation made to receive the enemy, (p. 343)
+ should he again attack our position. Seven fresh companies
+ were drawn from the town, and Brigadier-General Marshall, with a
+ re-enforcement of Kentucky cavalry and four heavy guns, under
+ Captain Prentiss, 1st Artillery, was near at hand, when it was
+ discovered that the enemy had abandoned his position during the
+ night. Our scouts soon ascertained that he had fallen back upon
+ Agua Nueva. The great disparity of numbers, and the exhaustion of
+ our troops, rendered it inexpedient and hazardous to attempt
+ pursuit. A staff officer was dispatched to General Santa Anna to
+ negotiate an exchange of prisoners, which was satisfactorily
+ completed on the following day. Our own dead were collected and
+ buried, and the Mexican wounded, of which a large number had been
+ left upon the field, were removed to Saltillo, and rendered as
+ comfortable as circumstances would permit.
+
+ On the evening of the 26th, a close reconnoissance was made of
+ the enemy's position, which was found to be occupied only by a
+ small body of cavalry, the infantry and artillery having
+ retreated in the direction of San Luis Potosi. On the 27th, our
+ troops resumed their former camp at Agua Nueva, the enemy's rear
+ guard evacuating the place as we approached, leaving a
+ considerable number of wounded. It was my purpose to beat up his
+ quarters at Encarnacion early the next morning, but upon
+ examination, the weak condition of the cavalry horses rendered it
+ unadvisable to attempt so long a march without water. A command
+ was finally dispatched to Encarnacion, on the 1st of March, under
+ Colonel Belknap. Some two hundred wounded, and about sixty
+ Mexican soldiers were found there, the army having passed on in
+ the direction of Matehuala, with greatly reduced numbers, and
+ suffering much from hunger. The dead and dying were strewed upon
+ the road and crowded the buildings of the hacienda.
+
+ The American force engaged in the action of Buena Vista was 344
+ officers and 4,425 men, exclusive of the small command left in
+ and near Saltillo. Of this number, two squadrons of cavalry and
+ three batteries of light artillery, making not more than 453 men,
+ composed the only force of regular troops. The strength of the
+ Mexican army is stated by General Santa Anna, in his summons, to
+ be 20,000; and that estimate is confirmed by all the information
+ since obtained. Our loss is 267 killed, 456 wounded, and 23
+ missing. Of the numerous wounded, many did not require removal to
+ the hospital, and it is hoped that a comparatively small number
+ will be permanently disabled. The Mexican loss in killed and
+ wounded may be fairly estimated at 1,500, and will probably reach
+ 2,000. At least 500 of their killed were left upon the field of
+ battle. We have no means of ascertaining the number of deserters
+ and dispersed men from their ranks, but it is known to be very
+ great.
+
+ Our loss has been especially severe in officers, twenty-eight
+ having been killed upon the field. We have to lament the death of
+ Captain George Lincoln, Assistant Adjutant-General, serving in
+ the staff of General Wool, a young officer of high bearing and
+ approved gallantry, who fell early in the action. No loss falls
+ more heavily upon the army in the field than that of Colonels
+ Hardin and McKee, and Lieutenant-Colonel Clay. Possessing, in a
+ remarkable degree, the confidence of their commanders, and the
+ last two having enjoyed the advantage of a military education, I
+ had looked particularly to them for support in case we met the
+ enemy. I need not say that their zeal in engaging the enemy, and
+ the cool and steadfast courage with which they maintained (p. 344)
+ their positions during the day, fully realized my hopes, and
+ caused me to feel yet more sensibly their untimely loss.
+
+ I perform a grateful duty in bringing to the notice of the
+ government the general good conduct of the troops. Exposed for
+ successive nights, without fires, to the severity of the weather,
+ they were ever prompt and cheerful in the discharge of every
+ duty; and finally displayed conspicuous steadiness and gallantry
+ in repulsing, at great odds, a disciplined foe. While the
+ brilliant success achieved by their arms releases me from the
+ painful necessity of specifying many cases of bad conduct before
+ the enemy, I feel an increased obligation to mention particular
+ corps and officers, whose skill, coolness and gallantry in trying
+ situations, and under a continued and heavy fire, seem to merit
+ particular notice.
+
+ To Brigadier-General Wool my obligations are especially due. The
+ high state of discipline and instruction of several of the
+ volunteer regiments was attained under his command, and to his
+ vigilance and arduous service before the action, and his
+ gallantry and activity on the field, a large share of our success
+ may justly be attributed. During most of the engagement he was in
+ immediate command of the troops thrown back on our left flank. I
+ beg leave to recommend him to the favorable notice of the
+ government. Brigadier-General Lane (slightly wounded) was active
+ and zealous throughout the day, and displayed great coolness and
+ gallantry before the enemy.
+
+ The services of the light artillery, always conspicuous, were
+ more than usually distinguished. Moving rapidly over the roughest
+ ground, it was always in action at the right place and the right
+ time, and its well-directed fire dealt destruction in the masses
+ of the enemy. While I recommend to particular favor the gallant
+ conduct and valuable services of Major Munroe, chief of
+ artillery, and Captains Washington, 4th Artillery, and Sherman
+ and Bragg, 3d Artillery, commanding batteries, I deem it no more
+ than just to mention all the subaltern officers. They were nearly
+ all detached at different times, and in every situation exhibited
+ conspicuous skill and gallantry. Captain O'Brien, Lieutenants
+ Brent, Whiting, and Couch, 4th Artillery, and Bryan,
+ Topographical Engineer (slightly wounded), were attached to
+ Captain Washington's battery. Lieutenants Thomas, Reynolds, and
+ French, 3d Artillery, (severely wounded), to that of Captain
+ Sherman; and Captain Shover and Lieutenant Kilburn, 3d Artillery,
+ to that of Captain Bragg. Captain Shover, in connection with
+ Lieutenant Donaldson, 1st Artillery, rendered gallant and
+ important service in repulsing the cavalry of General Minon. The
+ regular cavalry, under Lieutenant-Colonel May, with which was
+ associated Captain Pike's squadron of Arkansas horse, rendered
+ useful service in holding the enemy in check, and in covering the
+ batteries at several points. Captain Steen, 1st Dragoons, was
+ severely wounded early in the day, while gallantly endeavoring,
+ with my authority, to rally the troops which were falling to the
+ rear.
+
+ The Mississippi riflemen, under Colonel Davis, were highly
+ conspicuous for their gallantry and steadiness, and sustained
+ throughout the engagement the reputation of veteran troops.
+ Brought into action against an immensely superior force, they
+ maintained themselves for a long time unsupported and with heavy
+ loss, and held an important part of the field until re-enforced.
+ Colonel Davis, though severely wounded, remained in the saddle
+ until the close of the action. His distinguished coolness and
+ gallantry at the head of his regiment on this day entitle (p. 345)
+ him to the particular notice of the government. The 3d Indiana
+ regiment, under Colonel Lane, and a fragment of the 2d, under
+ Colonel Bowles, were associated with the Mississippi regiment
+ during the greater portion of the day, and acquitted themselves
+ creditably in repulsing the attempts of the enemy to break that
+ portion of our line. The Kentucky cavalry, under Colonel
+ Marshall, rendered good service dismounted, acting as light
+ troops on our left, and afterward, with a portion of the Arkansas
+ regiment, in meeting and dispersing the column of cavalry at
+ Buena Vista. The 1st and 2d Illinois, and the 2d Kentucky
+ regiments, served immediately under my eye, and I bear a willing
+ testimony to their excellent conduct throughout the day. The
+ spirit and gallantry with which the 1st Illinois and 2d Kentucky
+ engaged the enemy in the morning, restored confidence to that
+ part of the field, while the list of casualties will show how
+ much these three regiments suffered in sustaining the heavy
+ charge of the enemy in the afternoon. Captain Conner's company of
+ Texas volunteers, attached to the 2d Illinois regiment, fought
+ bravely, its captain being wounded and two subalterns killed.
+ Colonel Bissell, the only surviving colonel of these regiments,
+ merits notice for his coolness and bravery on this occasion.
+ After the fall of the field officers of the 1st Illinois and 2d
+ Kentucky regiments, the command of the former devolved upon
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Weatherford, that of the latter upon Major
+ Fry.
+
+ Regimental commanders and others who have rendered reports, speak
+ in general terms of the good conduct of their officers and men,
+ and have specified many names, but the limits of this report
+ forbid a recapitulation of them here. I may, however, mention
+ Lieutenants Rucker and Campbell, of the dragoons, and Captain
+ Pike, Arkansas cavalry, commanding squadrons; Lieutenant-Colonel
+ Field, Kentucky cavalry; Lieutenant-Colonel Roane, Arkansas
+ cavalry, upon whom the command devolved after the fall of Colonel
+ Yell; Major Bradford, Captain Sharpe (severely wounded), and
+ Adjutant Griffith, Mississippi regiment; Lieutenant-Colonel
+ Hadden, 2d Indiana regiment, and Lieutenant Robinson, aid-de-camp
+ to General Lane; Lieutenant-Colonel Weatherford, 1st Illinois
+ regiment; Lieutenant-Colonel Morrison, Major Trail, and Adjutant
+ Whiteside (severely wounded), 2d Illinois regiment; and Major
+ Fry, 2d Kentucky regiment, as being favorably noticed for
+ gallantry and good conduct. Major McCulloch, quarter-master in
+ the volunteer service, rendered important services before the
+ engagement, in the command of a spy company, and during the
+ affair was associated with the regular cavalry. To Major Warren,
+ 1st Illinois Volunteers, I feel much indebted for his firm and
+ judicious course, while exercising command in Saltillo.
+
+ The medical staff, under the able direction of Assistant Surgeon
+ Hitchcock, were assiduous in attention to the wounded, upon the
+ field, and in their careful removal to the rear. Both in these
+ respects, and in the subsequent organization and service of the
+ hospitals, the administration of this department was every thing
+ that could be wished.
+
+ Brigadier-General Wool speaks in high terms of the officers of
+ his staff, and I take pleasure in mentioning them here, having
+ witnessed their activity and zeal upon the field. Lieutenant and
+ Aid-de-camp McDowell, Colonel Churchill, inspector-general,
+ Captain Chapman, assistant quarter-master, Lieutenant Sitgreaves,
+ Topographical Engineers, and Captains Howard and Davis, (p. 346)
+ volunteer service, are conspicuously noticed by the general for
+ their gallantry and good conduct. Messrs. March, Addicks Potts,
+ Harrison, Burgess, and Dusenbury, attached in various capacities
+ to General Wool's head-quarters, are likewise mentioned for their
+ intelligent alacrity in conveying orders to all parts of the
+ field.
+
+ In conclusion, I beg leave to speak of my own staff, to whose
+ exertions in rallying troops and communicating orders I feel
+ greatly indebted. Major Bliss, assistant adjutant-general,
+ Captain J. H. Eaton, and Lieutenant R. S. Garnett, aids-de-camp,
+ served near my person, and were prompt and zealous in the
+ discharge of every duty. Major Munroe, besides rendering valuable
+ service as chief of artillery, was active and instrumental, as
+ were also Colonels Churchill and Belknap, inspectors general, in
+ rallying troops and disposing them for the defence of the train
+ and baggage. Colonel Whiting, quartermaster general, and Captain
+ Eaton, chief of the subsistence department, were engaged with the
+ duties of their departments, and also served in my immediate
+ staff on the field. Captain Sibley, assistant quartermaster, was
+ necessarily left with the head-quarter camp near town, where his
+ services were highly useful. Major Mansfield and Lieutenant
+ Benham, engineers, and Captain Linnard and Lieutenants Pope and
+ Franklin, Topographical Engineers, were employed before and
+ during the engagement in making reconnoissances, and on the field
+ were very active in bringing information and in conveying my
+ orders to distant points. Lieutenant Kingsbury, in addition to
+ his proper duties as ordnance officer, Captain Chilton, assistant
+ quartermaster, and Majors Dix and Coffee, served also as extra
+ aids-de-camp, and were actively employed in the transmission of
+ orders. Mr. Thomas L. Crittenden, of Kentucky, though not in
+ service, volunteered as my aid-de-camp on this occasion, and
+ served with credit in that capacity. Major Craig, chief of
+ ordnance, and Surgeon Craig, medical director, had been detached
+ on duty from head-quarters, and did not reach the ground until
+ the morning of the 24th, too late to participate in the action,
+ but in time to render useful services in their respective
+ departments of the staff.
+
+ I am, Sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ Z. TAYLOR,
+ _Major-General U. S. A._, _commanding_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Order Congratulating the Army._
+
+ Headquarters, Army of Occupation,
+ February 26, 1847.
+
+ 1. The commanding general has the grateful task of congratulating
+ the troops upon the brilliant success which attended their arms
+ in the conflicts of the 22d and the 23d. Confident in the immense
+ superiority of numbers, and stimulated by the presence of a
+ distinguished leader, the Mexican troops were yet repulsed in
+ efforts to force our lines, and finally withdrew with immense
+ loss from the field.
+
+ 2. The general would express his obligations to the officers (p. 347)
+ and men engaged, for the cordial support which they rendered
+ throughout the action. It will be his highest pride to bring to
+ the notice of the government the conspicuous gallantry of
+ different officers and corps, whose unwavering steadiness more
+ than once saved the fortunes of the day. He would also express
+ his high satisfaction with the conduct of the small command left
+ to hold Saltillo. Though not so seriously engaged as their
+ comrades, their services were very important and efficiently
+ rendered. While bestowing this just tribute to the good conduct
+ of the troops, the general deeply regrets to say that there were
+ not a few exceptions. He trusts that those who fled ingloriously
+ to Buena Vista, and even to Saltillo, will seek an opportunity to
+ retrieve their reputation, and to emulate the bravery of their
+ comrades who bore the brunt of the battle, and sustained, against
+ fearful odds, the honor of our flag.
+
+ The exultation of success is checked by the heavy sacrifice of
+ life which it has cost, embracing many officers of high rank and
+ rare merit. While the sympathies of a grateful country will be
+ given to the bereaved families and friends of those who nobly
+ fell, their illustrious example will remain for the benefit and
+ admiration of the army.
+
+ By order of Major-General Taylor,
+ W. W. S. BLISS, _Act. Adj. General_.
+
+
+
+No. 64. (p. 348)
+PLATE LXV.
+
+
+_March 5, 1849--July 9, 1850._
+
+ Zachary Taylor President of the United States 1849. [Rx]. Peace
+ and friendship.
+
+PRESIDENT ZACHARY TAYLOR.
+
+[_Twelfth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ZACHARY TAYLOR PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES 1849. Bust of President
+Taylor, facing the left.
+
+PEACE AND FRIENDSHIP. Two hands clasped in token of amity; on the cuff
+of the left wrist three stripes, and buttons with the American eagle
+on them; the other wrist bare; above the hands, a calumet and tomahawk
+crossed--Indian emblems of peace and war.
+
+The obverse of this medal, though not signed, was engraved by Franklin
+Peale, as may be seen by the following extract from a despatch of R.
+M. Patterson, director of the Mint, to Orlando Brown, office of Indian
+Affairs, Department of the Interior, and dated Philadelphia, November
+26th, 1849:
+
+"Three Indian medal dies, bearing the head of President Taylor, were
+asked of the chief coiner of the Mint, Mr. Franklin Peale, by Mr.
+Medill, while Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and he agreed to the
+estimate of the cost which was $700. I have now the satisfaction of
+reporting that the dies are finished, and that Mr. Peale is ready to
+furnish, on sufficient notice, the medals which you may desire.
+
+
+
+No. 65. (p. 349)
+PLATE LXVI.
+
+
+_June 10, 1850--March 4, 1853._
+
+ Millard Fillmore President of the United States 1850. [Rx]. Labor
+ virtue honor.
+
+PRESIDENT MILLARD FILLMORE.
+
+[_Thirteenth President of the United States of America._]
+
+MILLARD FILLMORE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES 1850. Undraped bust of
+President Fillmore, facing the right. S. ELLIS.
+
+LABOR VIRTUE HONOR. A pioneer from the far West, his left hand on a
+ploughshare, explains to an Indian chief the benefits of civilization,
+of which he wishes him to partake. The American flag envelops both in
+its folds. In the background is a farm-house. J. WILLSON.
+
+
+JOSEPH WILLSON was born at Canton, St Lawrence County, New York, in
+1825. He studied portrait painting with Salathiel Ellis, followed him
+to New York in 1842, and began cutting cameos and die sinking. In 1848
+he removed to Washington, under the patronage of the Honorable R. H.
+Gillet, member of Congress from St Lawrence County, New York,
+associated himself in business with Salathiel Ellis, and made the
+reverses of the Indian medals of Presidents Fillmore and Pierce. In
+1851 he went to Italy to study sculpture, and remained abroad three
+years. He died, September 8, 1857.
+
+
+MILLARD FILLMORE was born at Summerhill, Cayuga County, New York,
+January 7, 1800. He began the study of law in 1819, and was admitted
+to the bar to practise as an attorney in 1827; was counsellor in the
+Supreme Court of the State of New York, 1829; and settled in (p. 350)
+Buffalo, 1830. He was a member of the State Legislature, 1829-1831;
+member of Congress, 1832-1834, and again, 1837-1841; comptroller of
+the State of New York, 1847; vice-president of the United States,
+1849, and President on the death of General Taylor (June 10),
+1850-1853. He was an unsuccessful candidate for the Presidency in
+1856, and died in Buffalo, New York, March 8, 1874.
+
+
+
+No. 66. (p. 351)
+PLATE LXVII.
+
+
+_March 4, 1853--March 4, 1857._
+
+ Franklin Pierce, President of the United States. 1853. [Rx].
+ Labor virtue honor.
+
+PRESIDENT FRANKLIN PIERCE.
+
+[_Fourteenth President of the United States of America._]
+
+FRANKLIN PIERCE, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. 1853. Undraped bust
+of President Pierce, facing the left. S. ELLIS.
+
+LABOR VIRTUE HONOR. A pioneer from the far West, his left hand on a
+ploughshare, explains to an Indian chief the benefits of civilization,
+of which he wishes him to partake. The American flag envelops both in
+its folds. In the background is a farm-house. J. WILLSON.
+
+
+FRANKLIN PIERCE was born at Hillsborough, New Hampshire, November 23,
+1804. He was graduated at Bowdoin College, Maine, 1824, and was
+admitted to the bar at Hillsborough, 1827; was member of the State
+Legislature, 1829; member of Congress, 1833-1837; United States
+senator, 1837-1842; brigadier-general of volunteers, March, 1847;
+served under General Scott throughout the Mexican campaign; President
+of the United States, 1853-1857. He retired to Concord, New Hampshire,
+and died there, October 8, 1869.
+
+
+
+No. 67. (p. 352)
+PLATE LXVIII.
+
+
+_July 2, 1853._
+
+ Smyrna. American sloop of war St. Louis. Austrian brig of war
+ Hussar. [Rx]. Presented by the President of the United States to
+ Commander Duncan N. Ingraham, etc.
+
+COMMANDER DUNCAN NATHANIEL INGRAHAM.
+
+[_Release of Martin Coszta._]
+
+The United States sloop-of-war St Louis, and the Austrian brig-of-war
+Hussar, are at anchor in the roads of Smyrna; while a second Austrian
+war vessel and three mail steamers are at a little distance. The city
+of Smyrna and the ruins of the Acropolis, on Mount Pagus, are in the
+background. Exergue: SMYRNA. AMERICAN SLOOP OF WAR ST. LOUIS. AUSTRIAN
+BRIG OF WAR HUSSAR, S. EASTMAN D. (_delineavit._) P. F. CROSS SC..
+(_sculpsit._) LONGACRE.
+
+Within a wreath of laurel and oak: PRESENTED BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE
+UNITED STATES TO COMMANDER DUNCAN N. (_Nathaniel_) INGRAHAM AS A
+TESTIMONIAL OF THE HIGH SENSE ENTERTAINED BY CONGRESS OF HIS GALLANT
+AND JUDICIOUS CONDUCT ON THE 2D OF JULY 1853. JOINT RESOLUTION OF
+CONGRESS AUGUST 4{TH} 1854. Exergue: The American eagle, with
+outspread wings, holds an anchor in its talons; above are thirty-one
+stars, the whole lighted by the rays of the sun. S. EASTMAN D.
+(_delineavit._) J. B. LONGACRE SC. (_sculpsit_).
+
+
+SETH EASTMAN was graduated at West Point as second lieutenant of (p. 353)
+infantry, July 1, 1829; was assistant teacher of drawing at West
+Point, 1833-1840; first lieutenant, 1836; and captain, 1839. He
+engraved the armorial bearings of several of the new States, and
+designed the Ingraham medal. He was living in Washington in 1872.
+
+
+P. F. CROSS, who engraved the obverse of the Ingraham medal, was born
+in Sheffield, England, and died in Philadelphia in 1856.
+
+
+JAMES BARTON LONGACRE was born in Delaware County, Pennsylvania,
+August 11, 1794, and became a steel-plate engraver. In 1844 he was
+appointed engraver to the United States Mint, in Philadelphia, and
+retained the situation till his death, January 14, 1869. He was also
+one of the publishers and proprietors of the "National Portrait
+Gallery," to which he contributed many engravings. His largest plate,
+however, the equestrian portrait of General Jackson, is not in that
+work.
+
+
+DUNCAN NATHANIEL INGRAHAM was born in Charleston, South Carolina,
+December 6, 1802. He was appointed a midshipman, June 18, 1812; became
+a lieutenant, January 13, 1825; and commander, September 8, 1841.
+While in command of the sloop-of-war St. Louis, off Smyrna, in July,
+1853, he rescued Martin Coszta from the Austrian brig-of-war Hussar;
+for this act Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold medal. He
+became a captain, 1855; and in 1856 was appointed chief of the Bureau
+of Ordnance and Hydrography in the Navy Department, Washington. He
+resigned, February 4, 1861, and acted with the Southern Confederacy
+during the Civil War. He died in Charleston, South Carolina, June 10,
+1863.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to Commander Ingraham._
+
+ _Resolved unanimously by the Senate and House of Representatives
+ of the United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States be, and he is hereby, requested to
+ cause to be made a medal, with suitable devices, and presented to
+ Commander Duncan N. Ingraham, of the navy of the United States,
+ as a testimonial of the high sense entertained by Congress (p. 354)
+ of his gallant and judicious conduct on the second of July,
+ eighteen hundred and fifty-three, in extending protection
+ to Martin Coszta, by rescuing him from illegal seizure and
+ imprisonment on board the Austrian war brig Hussar.
+
+ Approved August 4, 1854.
+
+ _____
+
+_Commander Ingraham to Commodore Stringham._
+
+ United States ship St. Louis,
+ To Smyrna, July 6th, 1853.
+ COMMODORE SILAS H. STRINGHAM,
+ Commander-in-Chief of the United States Naval Forces
+ in the Mediterranean.
+
+ Sir: It becomes my duty to report to you an affair at this place
+ in which I have taken upon myself to compromise the American
+ flag.
+
+ I arrived here upon the 23d of June, and soon after anchoring was
+ informed that an American had been kidnapped by the Austrian
+ Consul upon the Turkish soil and sent on board an Austrian
+ brig-of-war.
+
+ I sent for the American Consul and informed him of what I had
+ heard. He told me the man was a Hungarian refugee (named Martin
+ Coszta), who had a certificate of intention to become a citizen
+ of the United States, and came here in an American vessel, but
+ that he did not consider him under his protection, having to his
+ knowledge no passport.
+
+ The Consul and myself then went on board the brig, and requested
+ to see the commander, but were told he was not on board. We then
+ went to the Austrian Consul, and demanded to see Coszta, which
+ after some demur was granted.
+
+ After a conversation with Coszta, I was afraid I had no right to
+ demand him as a citizen of the United States, but determined
+ neither to make a claim nor acquiesce in his seizure until I
+ could hear from the Legation at Constantinople. I was guided in
+ this opinion by the Consul, who seemed to think we could not use
+ force without more evidence than the paper in his possession
+ gave.
+
+ I then requested the Consul to write immediately to the Legation,
+ which he did. Before an answer could arrive, I received
+ information that Coszta was to be sent to Trieste. I immediately
+ wrote to the commander of the brig, protesting against this step,
+ and received a verbal reply that he was ignorant of any such
+ intention. Next morning, at daylight, I got under way, and
+ anchored within half cable's length of the brig, and loaded my
+ guns, the steamer in which it was said Coszta was to be sent
+ being very near. At 11 A.M. an answer came from Mr. Brown,
+ stating that Coszta was an American citizen, and advising the
+ Consul to give him all aid and sympathy, but in an unofficial
+ way. I then told the Consul he must insist upon Coszta remaining
+ until I again heard from the Charge. He did so, when the Austrian
+ Consul told him he had intended to send the man off that day, but
+ would wait until the next mail. On Saturday, the 2d of July, (p. 355)
+ the Capen Oglan of the Legation arrived with letters from the
+ Charge to the Consul and myself to use stringent measures.
+
+ I immediately held an interview with Coszta, in which he claimed
+ the protection of the American flag. I then addressed note "B" to
+ the commander of the brig, demanding Coszta's release. I also
+ directed the American Consul to furnish the Austrian Consul with
+ a copy of the demand, which was done. At this time the Austrian
+ brig and a ten-gun schooner that arrived the day before prepared
+ for action, having three mail-steamers to assist. I did the same,
+ and awaited the hour of 4 P.M. At 12, our Consul came off with a
+ proposition that Coszta should be delivered into the hands of the
+ Consul-General of France, to be held at the joint order of the
+ American and Austrian Consuls, until his nationality should be
+ determined. After some consideration, and the advice of the
+ English and French Consuls to ours, I agreed to the terms. The
+ prisoner was then landed amid the cheers of the inhabitants and
+ every demonstration of joy. I know, Sir, I have taken a fearful
+ responsibility upon myself by this act, but after Mr. Brown
+ informed me Coszta had taken the oath of allegiance to the United
+ States, and foresworn all allegiance to Austria, that he was an
+ American citizen and had been under the protection of the
+ Legation at Constantinople, I could not hesitate to believe he
+ was fully entitled to protection. It was a case of life and
+ death; for, if Coszta had been taken to Trieste his fate was
+ sealed, and could I have looked the American people in the face
+ again, if I had allowed a citizen to be executed and not used the
+ power in my hands to protect him for fear of doing too much? The
+ easy manner, also, in which he was given up, and the Convention
+ that he should be held by a third party until his nationality
+ could be established, is evidence that they were not sure of
+ their ground.
+
+ Should my conduct be approved by you, Sir, it will be one of the
+ proudest moments of my life that I have saved this gallant man
+ from a cruel and ignominious death. On the other hand, should the
+ course I have pursued be disavowed, I must bow to the decision;
+ but whatever may be the consequence to myself, I shall feel I
+ have done my best to support the honor of the flag, and not allow
+ a citizen to be oppressed who claimed at my hands the protection
+ of the flag.
+
+ I enclose copies of all the papers (A to E) relating to this
+ affair.
+
+ I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ D. N. INGRAHAM, _Commander_.
+
+ _____
+
+A
+
+_Commander Ingraham to Commander Schwartz._
+
+ United States ship St. Louis, Smyrna Roads,
+ To Evening June 28, 1853.
+ THE COMMANDER OF THE AUSTRIAN BRIG HUSSAR.
+
+ Sir: I have this moment received a letter stating Martin Coszta
+ was to be sent on board the steamer to-morrow at daylight, to be
+ sent to Trieste. I have been only waiting to hear from the (p. 356)
+ Minister at Constantinople before I took some action in the
+ case of Coszta, as he has a paper stating his intention to become
+ a citizen of the United States. He came here in an American
+ vessel, and has been some time in the United States. I earnestly
+ protest against his leaving this port until something has been
+ heard from Constantinople.
+
+ Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ D. N. INGRAHAM, _Commander_.
+
+ _____
+
+B
+
+_Commander Schwartz to Commander Ingraham._
+
+ His Imperial Majesty's brig Hussar,
+ To Smyrna, June 29th, 1853.
+ THE COMMANDER OF THE UNITED STATES SHIP ST. LOUIS.
+
+ Sir: I had the honor to receive your letter of the 28th inst.
+
+ Concerning the matter respecting Martin Coszta, I request you,
+ Sir, to communicate with the Consul General, as I can personally
+ do nothing in the matter, as I receive all my orders from him.
+
+ I have the honor to subscribe myself, with great respect, your
+ obedient servant,
+ SCHWARTZ.
+
+ _____
+
+C
+
+_Commander Ingraham to Commander Schwartz._
+
+ United States ship St. Louis,
+ To Smyrna, July 2d, 1853.
+ THE COMMANDER OF THE AUSTRIAN BRIG HUSSAR.
+
+ Sir: I have been directed by the American Charge at
+ Constantinople to demand the person of Martin Coszta, a citizen
+ of the United States, taken by force from the Turkish soil and
+ now confined on board the brig Hussar. And if a refusal is given
+ to take him by force.
+
+ An answer to the demand must be returned by 4 o'clock P.M.
+
+ Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ D. N. INGRAHAM, _Commander_.
+
+ _____
+
+D (p. 357)
+
+_Commander Schwartz to Commander Ingraham._
+
+ His Imperial Majesty's brig Hussar,
+ To Smyrna, July 2d, 1853.
+ THE COMMANDER OF THE UNITED STATES SHIP ST. LOUIS,
+ Present.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to refer you to my letter of the 28th
+ ultimo, in which I stated that I depend altogether upon the
+ Consul General in the matter respecting the prisoner Martin
+ Coszta. I shall send him your letter of this day, and request him
+ to come to an understanding with you himself.
+
+ I protest against all violence toward His Imperial Majesty's brig
+ "Hussar," or schooner "Artimesia," and shall consider it as a
+ hostile step for which I would hold you altogether responsible.
+
+ I have the honor to subscribe myself, with great respect, your
+ obedient servant,
+ SCHWARTZ.
+
+ _____
+
+E
+
+_S. N. Brown to Commander Ingraham._
+
+ To Legation of the United States,
+ COMMANDER INGRAHAM, Pera, June 28th, 1853.
+ United States Corvette St. Louis.
+
+ Dear Sir: I send you a copy of my letter to the Austrian
+ Internuncio (Minister) on the subject of the detention of Martin
+ Coszta on board the Austrian brig Hussar; which will serve to
+ show my views of the transaction better than I could do in a
+ note.
+
+ The public here are quite as indignant at the brutal conduct of
+ the Austrian Consul as they were in Smyrna. Mussulman, Christian
+ and Jew execrate the conduct of the Consul, and accuse him as the
+ cause of the bloodshed which resulted from the brutal arrest and
+ treatment of Coszta. The Porte would have been much pleased had
+ you taken him from the Austrian brig, and I regret that it was
+ not done on the ground that he had renounced all allegiance to
+ the Austrian Emperor, and taken an oath of allegiance to the
+ government of the United States.
+
+ He certainly is not an Austrian subject, and he as certainly (p. 358)
+ can claim no other allegiance to any other power, than to
+ that of the United States. It is not uncommon for persons
+ having received official copies of their declaration of
+ allegiance to procure an American passport stating this fact, in
+ which all protection and satisfaction is assured them from
+ American authorities. I believe that, under the circumstances,
+ you have a right to persist in demanding him from the Austrian
+ commander. The Porte would wish to leave the matter open between
+ us and the Austrians, and if we could see the poor fellow carried
+ off and hung to let us take the ignominy of the transaction on
+ our own shoulders. If I thought you would be governed by my
+ instructions, they would be to demand him, in the most formal and
+ positive language, of the Austrian commander, in my name as
+ Representative of the United States, and after having him in your
+ possession, to leave the matter to be adjusted between the two
+ governments. In case of a refusal to deliver him, founded on the
+ pleas that he had renounced all allegiance to Austria, and that
+ having taken the oath of allegiance to the United States, he has
+ a claim upon our protection, I would take him out of the vessel.
+ Such a course will meet with the most profound applause from this
+ government and from every foreign legation here (except that of
+ Austria), and cannot but call forth strong gratification on the
+ part of our government and people at home.
+
+ So abominable an act has excited here extreme abhorrence and
+ execration, and all you have already done has elevated the
+ character of our country and of our navy.
+
+ I remain, dear Sir, most truly yours,
+ S. N. BROWN.
+
+ Be so good as to allow Mr. Offley to peruse the present. I do not
+ doubt but that he will support you in all you do.
+ S. N. B.
+
+
+[_Enclosure from Caleb Lyon of Lyonsdale._]
+
+ My Dear Sir: I cordially approve of the measures of Mr. Brown in
+ taking the exile Coszta per force, and do hope you will do so. So
+ far as my humble power goes, I will defend it. He is not an
+ Austrian subject, he has sworn allegiance to the United States.
+ Sure this is enough to demand our protection, no matter what he
+ says. Do not let this chance slip to acquit yourself nobly, and
+ to do honor to our country.
+
+ The Turkish Governor as well as the Austrian Consul have been
+ both dismissed and disgraced.
+
+ The eyes of nations are upon the little St. Louis and her
+ commander. For God's sake, and sake of humanity, stand for the
+ right.
+
+ Regards and friendship of yours ever,
+ Caleb LYON OF LYONSDALE.
+
+ Mr. Lyon is a member of Congress from the State of New York, and
+ now travelling in Europe.
+
+ _____
+
+_Martin Coszta's Declaration of Intention._ (p. 359)
+
+1852.
+
+State of New York.
+
+_In the Court of Common Pleas for the City and County of New York_:
+
+ I, Martin Coszta, do declare on oath, that it is bona fide my
+ intention to become a citizen of the United States, and to
+ renounce forever all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign
+ Prince, Potentate, State or Sovereignty whatever, and
+ particularly to the Emperor of Austria, of whom I am a subject.
+
+ Martin COSZTA.
+
+ Sworn this 31st day of July, 1852.
+ George W. RIBLET, _Clerk_.
+
+ Clerk's Office, Court of Common Pleas,
+ For the City and County of New York.
+
+ I certify that the foregoing is a true copy of an original
+ Declaration of Intention, remaining of record in my office.
+
+ In witness whereof I have hereunto subscribed my name, and
+ affixed the seal of said Court, this 31st day of July, 1852.
+
+ [L. S.] George W. RIBLET, _Clerk_.
+
+ _____
+
+_Agreement between the Consul-General of Austria and the Consul of the
+United States of America._
+
+ Smyrne le 2 Juillet, 1853.
+
+ Les Soussignes Consul General d'Autriche et Consul des Etats-Unis
+ d'Amerique, prient Monsieur le Consul General de Sa Majeste
+ l'Empereur des Francais de prendre en depot dans ses prisons le
+ nomme Martin Koszta (Martin Coszta) detenu sur le brick de guerre
+ Autrichien "Hussard" et dont la nationalite et par consequent les
+ relations de protection sont en litige, entre les Ambassades
+ respectives a Constantinople, ainsi qu'entre les Consulats a
+ Smyrne.
+
+ Ils prient Monsieur le Consul General de se charger de ce depot
+ aux conditions suivantes.
+
+ L'individu sus mentionne sera consigne dans la journee
+ d'aujourd'hui et au plus tot possible par un detachement des
+ soldats du brick Autrichien qui le conduira au debarcadere de
+ l'hopital Francais, ou il sera remis entre les mains de Monsieur
+ le Consul General de France ou de la personne qu'il en aura
+ charge.
+
+ Le detenu ne pourra communiquer avec aucune personne du dehors a
+ l'exception des Consuls soussignes et dans l'hopital il sera
+ confie specialement a une personne que Monsieur le Consul General
+ de France designera.
+
+ Les frais de nourriture et de maintien que les soussignes (p. 360)
+ laissent entierement a la discretion de Monsieur le Consul
+ General de France de fixer au detenu, seront a la charge
+ du soussigne Consul General d'Autriche.
+
+ Il est expressement convenu que Monsieur le Consul General de
+ France ne delivrera le detenu Martin Koszta (Martin Coszta) que
+ sur une demande collective des soussignes.
+
+ E. S. OFFLEY, WEEKBECKER,
+ _Consul des Etats Unis d'Amerique_. _Consul General d'Autriche_.
+
+
+[Translation.]
+
+ Smyrna, July 2, 1853.
+
+ The undersigned, the Consul-General of Austria and the Consul of
+ the United States of America, request the Consul-General of His
+ Majesty, the Emperor of the French, to take in charge the named
+ Martin Koszta (Martin Coszta), detained on the Austrian
+ brig-of-war "Hussar," whose nationality and consequently whose
+ rights to protection are in litigation, between the respective
+ embassies at Constantinople, and also between the Consulates at
+ Smyrna.
+
+ They request the Consul-General to take charge of the detained
+ person on the following conditions:
+
+ The above-named individual shall be delivered to-day, and as soon
+ as possible, by a detachment of soldiers from the Austrian
+ brig-of-war, which shall conduct him to the landing of the French
+ hospital, where he shall be handed over to the Consul-General of
+ France, or to the persons designated by him.
+
+ The detained shall not be allowed to communicate with any outside
+ person except with the undersigned Consuls; and in the hospital
+ he shall be under the care of some one specially designated by
+ the Consul-General of France.
+
+ The expenses of boarding and keeping, the particulars of which
+ the undersigned leave entirely to the discretion of the
+ Consul-General of France, shall be borne by the Consul-General of
+ Austria.
+
+ It is expressly agreed that the Consul-General of France shall
+ deliver the detained Martin Koszta (Martin Coszta) only on a
+ collective demand of the undersigned.
+
+ E. S. OFFLEY, WEEKBECKER,
+ _Consul of the United States _Consul-General of Austria_.
+ of America_.
+
+
+
+No. 68. (p. 361)
+PLATE LXIX.
+
+
+_March 4, 1857--March 4, 1861._
+
+ James Buchanan. President of the United States, 1857. [Rx]. Labor
+ virtue honor.
+
+PRESIDENT JAMES BUCHANAN.
+
+[_Fifteenth President of the United States of America._]
+
+JAMES BUCHANAN, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES 1857. Bust of President
+Buchanan, facing the right S. ELLIS SC. (_sculpsit._)
+
+LABOR VIRTUE HONOR. A pioneer from the far West, his left hand on a
+ploughshare, explains to an Indian chief the benefits of civilization,
+of which he wishes him to partake. The American flag envelops both in
+its folds. In the background is a farm-house. J. WILLSON.
+
+
+JAMES BUCHANAN was born in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, April 23,
+1791. He was graduated at Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pennsylvania,
+1809; and was admitted to the bar in Lancaster, 1812. He was a member
+of the State Legislature, 1814-1816; member of Congress, 1821-1831;
+minister to Russia, 1832-1834; United States senator, 1834-1845;
+secretary of State to President Polk, 1845-1849; minister to England,
+1853-1856; President of the United States, 1857-1861. He died at his
+estate of Wheatland, near Lancaster, Pennsylvania, June 1, 1868.
+
+
+
+No. 69. (p. 362)
+PLATE LXX.
+
+
+_April, 1858._
+
+ James Buchanan, President of the United States. [Rx]. To Dr.
+ Frederick Rose, Assistant Surgeon, Royal Navy, G. B.
+
+DOCTOR FREDERICK HENRY ROSE.
+
+[_Kindness and Humanity of Doctor Rose._]
+
+JAMES BUCHANAN, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. Bust of President
+Buchanan, facing-the right. PAQUET. F. (_fecit_).
+
+TO DR. (_Doctor_) FREDERICK ROSE, ASSISTANT SURGEON, ROYAL NAVY, G. B.
+(_Great Britain_). Esculapius with his left hand is repelling Time,
+armed with his scythe, and with his right is offering a draught to the
+sick, one of whom is thanking him. Exergue: FOR KINDNESS AND HUMANITY
+TO OFFICERS AND CREW OF THE U. S. (_United States_) STEAMER
+SUSQUEHANNA. On the platform, PAQUET. F. (_fecit_).[116]
+
+ [Footnote 116: See INTRODUCTION, page ix.]
+
+
+A. C. PAQUET was born in Hamburg, Germany, December 5, 1814. He
+emigrated to America in October, 1848, settled in Philadelphia, and
+was assistant engraver to the United States Mint from 1857 to 1864. He
+has designed and engraved a number of medals, of which the principal
+are: General Grant; the wreck of the steamer San Francisco; the
+Philadelphia cathedral; President Johnson; Doctor Rose; President
+Buchanan; the Cincinnati exposition; Melgareja, President of Bolivia;
+the secretary of State of Bolivia; the Sanitary Commission fair;
+Humboldt; Everett; Life-saving medal of the first class; Life-saving
+medal of the second-class; Robinson; four gold, and five silver dies
+for the Chili Mint, and four silver dies for Bolivia. He is still
+living.
+
+
+FREDERICK HENRY ROSE was born January 5, 1833, and entered the (p. 363)
+British Royal Navy as assistant-surgeon, November 10, 1855. He was
+employed on the home station, on particular service on the North
+American, West Indian, and West Coast of Africa stations, until June,
+1863. While in Jamaica in April, 1858, with the permission of his
+commanding officer, Admiral Sir Hewston Stewart, Royal Navy, he
+volunteered, at imminent personal risk, his services on board the
+United States vessel-of-war Susquehanna, on which the yellow fever had
+broken out, and sailed in her to New York, devoting himself to the
+care of the sick. For this noble deed Congress gave him a vote of
+thanks and a gold medal. In 1866 Doctor Rose was placed on the retired
+list in consequence of ill health. He died at San Remo, Italy, March
+31, 1873.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to Doctor Rose._
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President be, and he is hereby, authorized and requested to cause
+ suitable acknowledgments to be made on the part of this
+ government to Admiral Sir Hewston Stewart, of Her Britannic
+ Majesty's Navy, and officers under his command, for their prompt
+ and efficient aid, and generous hospitality, extended to the
+ disabled officers and crew of the United States ship Susquehanna
+ on her late arrival at Port Royal, Island of Jamaica, with the
+ yellow fever on board; on which occasion, besides placing the
+ naval hospital, with an adequate corps of medical officers,
+ nurses and attendants, at their service, eighty-five of the
+ officers and crew of the Susquehanna were safely and promptly
+ conveyed on shore with the aid of the boats of the British
+ squadron, and the lives of the greater portion of them thereby
+ probably saved. And that the President be further requested to
+ cause a gold medal, with appropriate devices, to be presented, on
+ behalf of this government, to Assistant-Surgeon Frederick H.
+ Rose, of the British Navy, who volunteered, with the permission
+ of his commanding officer, to join the Susquehanna, and, at
+ imminent personal risk, devoted himself, on the voyage from
+ Jamaica to New York, to the care of the sick remaining on board.
+ And that the President cause suitable testimonials to be in like
+ manner presented to the medical officers in the British service,
+ in attendance at the hospital, with appropriate rewards to the
+ nurses and other attendants there, whilst occupied by the
+ officers and crew of the Susquehanna.
+
+ Approved May 11, 1858.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Sands to the Secretary of the Navy._ (p. 364)
+
+ To the Honorable U. S. Ship Susquehanna,
+ Isaac TOUCEY, New York Harbor,
+ Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C. April 15th, 1858.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to report to you the arrival of this ship
+ at New York, having had 155 cases of yellow fever on board, 85 of
+ which were left at the hospital at Port Royal, Jamaica.
+
+ For the information of the Honorable Department, I have to state
+ that after lying over one hundred days in San Juan De Nicaragua,
+ with an average sick list of about 15, the first case of fever
+ made its appearance on the 17th ultimo, then a second, then a
+ third, when I thought it advisable to put to sea, hoping that a
+ change of air would dispel the disease. After a few days the ship
+ returned off San Juan and anchored outside. She remained there
+ three days, with some slight modification of the fever, but it
+ again broke out with greater violence. I then got under way and
+ stood toward Aspinwall, expecting to meet the Jamestown,
+ Commander Kennedy, whom I had instructed to relieve us on the 1st
+ April, this ship to take her place, thinking that a change of
+ position might be favorable to the health of both ships; on our
+ way down to Aspinwall fresh cases continued to occur,
+ particularly among the lieutenants and engineers, the first and
+ second of the former being down, and others complaining. I now
+ determined, at the suggestion of the surgeon, to steer for
+ Pensacola; after standing for that port for some hours, and the
+ fever continuing to extend its ravages, there being nearly one
+ hundred down, at the request of the surgeon I changed our course
+ for the Island of Jamaica, where I arrived about 8 o'clock on the
+ evening of the 5th April.
+
+ The Admiral of the Port, Sir Hewston Stewart, on hearing of our
+ condition, kindly placed the Naval Hospital at our disposal, and
+ at six o'clock the next morning we landed 63 of our sick. I then
+ had to take coal and water on board, at Kingston, which detained
+ us a part of three days. The ship being now disabled, three
+ lieutenants and six engineers being sick, besides half the
+ firemen and coal-heavers, and many of the most valuable of the
+ men off duty, I shipped about 30 negroes, and agreeably to the
+ recommendation of the surgeon, I deemed it advisable to proceed
+ at once to a northern port.
+
+ The whole number of cases from the 17th March to 15th April was
+ 155--85 of which were left at the Hospital at Port Royal,
+ Jamaica. There remain on the list to-day 34 cases. We have had in
+ all 16 deaths, among these was 1st Lieutenant Queen of the Marine
+ Corps.
+
+ Lieutenant Howell and four engineers were left at the Hospital,
+ doing, I hope, well.
+
+ Since leaving Port Royal we have had two deaths, and some
+ addition to the number of cases, but generally on approaching a
+ cold climate, all seem to improve and we have had no new cases
+ for the last 48 hours.
+
+ I beg leave to forward three letters from Surgeon Pinckney, who
+ was taken down in the commencement of the epidemic, also one from
+ Passed Assistant Surgeon Maccoun, from whom I have received (p. 365)
+ the most valuable aid, during this severe visitation. As I had
+ but one surgeon left, and fearing he might also fall sick
+ during the passage home, I applied to Admiral Stewart for a
+ medical officer, and previous to our departure from Port Royal,
+ he sent us Assistant Surgeon Rose, who kindly volunteered his
+ services.
+
+ I cannot find words to express my sense of obligation to Admiral
+ Stewart for the kind and prompt manner in which he placed the
+ Royal Naval Hospital at our disposal, and furnished us with every
+ convenience for landing the sick, nor to Dr. Kinnear, Deputy
+ Medical Inspector, and the medical officers under him for their
+ attention to the comforts of those placed under their charge.
+
+ I also take great pleasure in mentioning that Commodore Kellett
+ and Captain Hay of the "Indus" came to offer their assistance
+ with boats and cots to land the sick.
+
+ I have left instructions with Mr. Harrison, our Consul at
+ Kingston, relating to the sick at the Hospital, and have drawn a
+ bill on the Navy Department in his favor for $1500, to cover any
+ necessary expenses that might occur until further instructions
+ should be received from the Department.
+
+ I have only to add my great regret at being obliged to leave my
+ station without instructions from the Department, but the
+ circumstances of the case rendered it absolutely necessary.
+
+ I have the honor to be, &c., &c.,
+ Joshua R. SANDS,
+ _Captain United States Navy_.
+
+
+
+No. 70. (p. 366)
+PLATE LXXI.
+
+
+_March 4, 1861--April 14, 1865._
+
+ Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, 1862.
+
+PRESIDENT ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
+
+[_Sixteenth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES 1862. Bust of
+President Lincoln, facing the right. S. ELLIS DEL. (_delineavit._) SC.
+(_sculpsit._) On edge of bust, PATENTED.
+
+A civilized Indian is ploughing his field; his children are playing at
+ball; on a hill to the left is a log cabin; to the right, a church;
+beyond them, some ships and a steamboat on a river; in the background,
+mountains; above is an Indian scalping his enemy; below, the head of
+an Indian squaw weeping; on one side, a quiver of arrows; on the
+other, a calumet and a bow--opposition of civilization to savage life.
+
+
+ABRAHAM LINCOLN was born in Hardin (now Larue) County, Kentucky,
+February 12, 1809. He settled in Illinois, 1830; was captain of
+volunteers in the Black Hawk war, 1832; member of the State
+Legislature, 1834-1841; was admitted to the bar, 1836; settled in
+Springfield, Illinois, 1837; was a member of Congress, 1847-1849;
+President of the United States (first term), 1861-1865; (second term),
+March 4 to April 14, 1865. He was shot by an assassin in Washington,
+April 14, 1865, and died the next day, universally lamented. He was
+known by the sobriquet of "Honest Abe" (_Abraham_).
+
+
+
+No. 71. (p. 367)
+PLATE LXXII a.
+
+
+_December 21, 1861, and July 16, 1862._
+
+NAVY MEDAL OF HONOR.
+
+A five-pointed star, tipped with trefoils, each point containing a
+crown of laurel and oak; in the middle, within a circle of thirty-four
+stars, America, personified as Minerva, stands with her left hand
+resting on the fasces, while with her right, in which she holds a
+shield blazoned with the American arms, she repulses Discord,
+represented with two snakes in each hand; the whole suspended by an
+anchor to two clasps united by a ribbon of thirteen stripes, paleways,
+gules and argent, and a chief, azure. On the platform: PAQUET F.
+(_fecit_).
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Acts of Congress Instituting Naval Medals of Honor._
+
+ SECTION 7. _And be it further enacted_, That the Secretary of the
+ Navy be, and is hereby, authorized to cause 200 "medals of honor"
+ to be prepared with suitable emblematic devices, which shall be
+ bestowed upon such petty officers, seamen, landsmen and marines
+ as shall most distinguish themselves by their gallantry in action
+ and other seamanlike qualities during the present war, and that
+ the sum of $1,000 be, and the same is hereby, appropriated out of
+ any money in the Treasury for the purpose of carrying this
+ section into effect.
+
+ Approved December 21, 1861.
+
+ SECTION 10. Seamen distinguishing themselves in battle or by
+ extraordinary heroism in the line of their profession, may be
+ promoted to forward warrant officers, or acting master's mates,
+ as they may be best qualified, upon the recommendation of their
+ commanding officer, approved by the flag officer and the
+ department. Upon such promotion they shall receive a gratuity of
+ $100 and a medal of honor to be prepared by the Navy Department.
+
+ Approved July 16, 1862.
+
+
+
+No. 72. (p. 368)
+PLATE LXXII b.
+
+
+_July 12, 1862, and March 3, 1863._
+
+ARMY MEDAL OF HONOR.
+
+A five-pointed star, tipped with trefoils, each point containing a
+crown of laurel and oak; in the middle, within a circle of thirty-four
+stars, America, personified as Minerva, stands with her left hand
+resting on the fasces, while with her right, in which she holds a
+shield blazoned with the American arms, she repulses Discord,
+represented with two snakes in each hand; the whole suspended by a
+trophy of two crossed cannons, balls, and a sword, surmounted by the
+American eagle, which is united by a ribbon of thirteen stripes,
+paleways, gules and argent, and a chief, azure, to a clasp composed of
+two cornucopias and the American arms. On the platform: PAQUET. F.
+(_fecit_).
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution and Act of Congress Instituting Army Medals of Honor._
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States be, and he is hereby, authorized
+ to cause 2,000 "medals of honor" to be prepared with suitable
+ emblematic devices, and to direct that the same be presented, in
+ the name of Congress, to such non-commissioned officers and
+ privates as shall most distinguish themselves by their gallantry
+ in action, and other soldier-like qualities during the present
+ insurrection, and that the sum of $10,000 be, and the same is
+ hereby, appropriated for the purpose of carrying this resolution
+ into effect.
+
+ Approved July 12th, 1862.
+
+
+ SECTION 9. _And be it further enacted_, That the President (p. 369)
+ cause to be struck from the dies recently prepared at the
+ United States Mint for that purpose, "medals of honor"
+ additional to those authorized by the act (Resolution of July
+ twelfth, eighteen hundred and sixty-two), and present the same to
+ such officers, non-commissioned officers, and privates as have
+ most distinguished or who may hereafter most distinguish
+ themselves in action, and the sum of $20,000 is hereby
+ appropriated out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise
+ appropriated, to defray the expenses of the same.
+
+ Approved March 3d, 1863.
+
+
+
+No. 73. (p. 370)
+PLATE LXXIII.
+
+
+_February 16, 1862, July 4 and November 25, 1863._
+
+ Major General Ulysses S Grant. Joint resolution of Congress
+ December 17, 1863. [Rx]. Donelson. Vicksburg, etc.
+
+MAJOR-GENERAL ULYSSES SIMPSON GRANT.
+
+[_Victories of Fort Donelson, Vicksburg, and Chattanooga._]
+
+MAJOR GENERAL ULYSSES S. (_Simpson_) GRANT. JOINT RESOLUTION OF
+CONGRESS DECEMBER 17. 1863. Bust of General Grant, in uniform, facing
+the left. In the upper part of a circle, branches of laurel and oak;
+in the lower part, sugarcane, the cotton plant, tobacco leaves and
+wheat, united by the national flag; in a second circle, thirteen
+stars, emblematical of the thirteen original States of the Union.
+ANTROBUS. D. (_delineavit._) PAQUET. F. (_fecit_).
+
+America, personified as a maiden, is seated on a rainbow, with the
+eagle at her side. She holds in her left hand a cornucopia of flowers,
+and in her right a crown of laurel and the American shield, on which,
+in bend, is the word DONELSON. Below, dividing the medal into two
+parts, is a trophy of arms, surmounted by the cap of liberty, and
+protected by two sentinels kneeling; to the left is the city of
+Vicksburg, at the foot of which flows the Mississippi river, bearing
+two steamboats; VICKSBURG; to the right are Lookout Mountain and
+Missionary Ridge; the Federal army encamped on the banks of the
+Tennessee river; CHATTANOOGA. In a first circle the Mississippi river,
+on which are four steamers, two of which are gunboats; MISSISSIPPI
+RIVER; in a second, thirteen stars--emblematical of the thirteen
+original States of the Union.[117]
+
+ [Footnote 117: See INTRODUCTION, page viii.]
+
+
+ANTROBUS, who designed the medal to General Grant, was living in (p. 371)
+Iowa in 1870.
+
+
+ULYSSES SIMPSON GRANT was born at Point Pleasant, Clermont County,
+Ohio, April 27, 1822. He was graduated at West Point as second
+lieutenant in the 4th infantry, July 1, 1843, and served under General
+Taylor at Palo Alto, Resaca de la Palma, and Monterey, and in all
+General Scott's battles, from Vera Cruz to the City of Mexico. He was
+breveted first lieutenant at Molinos del Rey, and captain at
+Chapultepec, for gallantry in the field. He resigned in 1854, and in
+the early part of 1860 removed to Galena, Illinois. In the Civil War
+he entered the service as colonel of the 21st Illinois Volunteers,
+May, 1861. As brigadier-general of volunteers he fought the battle of
+Belmont, November 7, of the same year; captured Fort Donelson,
+February 16, 1862, for which he was appointed, on the same day,
+major-general of volunteers; and won the battle of Shiloh, April 6 and
+7, 1862. He took Vicksburg, and was made major-general in the United
+States Army, July 4, 1863; won the battle of Chattanooga, November 25,
+same year, and was promoted to the rank of lieutenant-general. He
+became commander-in-chief of the army, March 17, 1864; fought the
+battles of the Wilderness, in May, and besieged Richmond, 1864-1865.
+He received Lee's surrender at Appomattox Court House, April 9, 1865.
+Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold medal for Fort Donelson,
+Vicksburg, and Chattanooga, December 17, 1863. In July, 1866, he was
+made general; acted as secretary of War _ad interim_ (12 August, 1867,
+February, 1868); President of the United States (first term),
+1869-1873; (second term), 1873-1877.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolutions of Congress Voting a Medal to General Grant._
+
+ _Be it resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the thanks
+ of Congress be, and they hereby are, presented to Major-General
+ Ulysses S. Grant, and through him to the officers and soldiers
+ who have fought under his command during the rebellion, for their
+ gallantry and good conduct in the battles in which they have been
+ engaged; and that the President of the United States be (p. 372)
+ requested to cause a gold medal to be struck, with suitable
+ emblems, devices and inscriptions, to be presented to
+ Major-General Grant.
+
+ SECTION 2. _And be it further resolved_, That, when the said
+ medal shall have been struck, the President shall cause a copy of
+ this joint resolution to be engrossed on parchment, and shall
+ transmit the same, together with the said medal, to Major-General
+ Grant, to be presented to him in the name of the people of the
+ United States of America.
+
+ SECTION 3. _And be it further resolved_, That a sufficient sum of
+ money to carry this resolution into effect is hereby appropriated
+ out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated.
+
+ Approved December 17, 1863.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Grant to General Cullum._
+
+ Headquarters, District of West Tennessee,
+ To Fort Donelson, February 16th, 1862.
+ BRIGADIER-GENERAL GEORGE W. CULLUM,
+ Chief of Staff, Department of the Missouri.
+
+ General: I am pleased to announce to you the unconditional
+ surrender, this morning, of Fort Donelson, with twelve to fifteen
+ thousand prisoners, at least forty pieces of artillery, and a
+ large amount of stores, horses, mules, and other public property.
+
+ I left Fort Henry on the 12th instant, with a force of about
+ fifteen thousand men, divided into two divisions, under the
+ command of Generals McClernand and Smith. Six regiments were sent
+ around by water the day before, convoyed by a gunboat (or boats),
+ and with instructions not to pass it.
+
+ The troops made the march in good order, the head of the column
+ arriving within two miles of the fort at twelve o'clock, m. At
+ this point the enemy's pickets were met and driven in. The
+ fortifications of the enemy were from this point gradually
+ approached and surrounded, with occasional skirmishing on the
+ line. The following day, owing to the non-arrival of the gunboats
+ and re-enforcements sent by water, no attack was made, but the
+ investment was extended on the flanks of the enemy, and drawn
+ closer to his works, with skirmishing all day. On the evening of
+ the 13th, the gunboats and re-enforcements arrived. On the 14th a
+ gallant attack was made by flag-officer Foote upon the enemy's
+ river batteries with his fleet.
+
+ The engagement lasted probably one hour and a half, and bid fair
+ to result favorably, when two unlucky shots disabled two of the
+ armed boats, so that they were carried back by the current. The
+ remaining two were very much disabled also, having received a
+ number of heavy shots about the pilot-houses and other parts of
+ the vessels. After these mishaps, I concluded to make the
+ investment of Fort Donelson as perfect as possible, and partially
+ fortify, and await repairs to the gunboats. This plan was
+ frustrated, however, by the enemy making a most vigorous attack
+ upon our right wing, commanded by Brigadier-General J. A. (p. 373)
+ McClernand, and which consisted of his division and a portion
+ of the force under General L. Wallace.
+
+ The enemy were repelled, after a closely contested battle of
+ several hours, in which our loss was heavy. The officers suffered
+ out of proportion. I have not the means of determining our loss,
+ even approximately, but it cannot fall far short of twelve
+ hundred killed, wounded and missing. I shall retain here enough
+ of the enemy to exchange for them, as they were immediately
+ shipped off, and not left for recapture.
+
+ About the close of this action the ammunition and cartridge boxes
+ gave out, which, with the loss of many of the field officers,
+ produced great confusion in the ranks. Seeing that the enemy did
+ not take advantage of it, convinced me that equal confusion, and,
+ consequently, great demoralization existed with him. Taking
+ advantage of this fact, I ordered a charge upon our left (enemy's
+ right) with the division under General C. F. Smith, which was
+ most brilliantly executed, and gave to our arms full assurance of
+ victory. The battle lasted until dark, and gave us possession of
+ part of the intrenchment. An attack was ordered from the flank
+ after the charge by General Smith was commenced, by the divisions
+ under McClernand and Wallace, which, notwithstanding hours of
+ exposure to a heavy fire in the fore part of the day, was
+ gallantly made, and the enemy further repulsed. At the points
+ thus gained, night having come on, all the troops encamped for
+ the night, feeling that a complete victory would crown their
+ efforts at an early hour in the morning. This morning, at a very
+ early hour, a note was received from General Buckner, under a
+ flag of truce, proposing an armistice. A copy of the
+ correspondence which ensued is herewith enclosed.
+
+ I could mention individuals who especially distinguished
+ themselves, but will leave this to division and brigade
+ commanders, whose reports will be forwarded as soon as received.
+
+ Of the division commanders, however, Generals Smith, McClernand
+ and Wallace, I must do the justice to say that all of them were
+ with their commands in the midst of danger, and were always ready
+ to execute all orders, no matter what the exposure to themselves.
+
+ At the hour the attack was made on General McClernand's command,
+ I was absent, having received a note from flag officer Foote,
+ requesting me to go and see him, he being unable to call on me,
+ in consequence of a wound received the day before.
+
+ My staff: Colonel J. D. Webster, first Illinois artillery, chief
+ of staff; Captain J. A. Rawlins, assistant adjutant-general;
+ first lieutenants C. B. Lagone and William S. Hillyer, aids; and
+ Lieutenant Colonel J. B. McPherson, chief engineer and Colonel
+ John Riggin, junior, volunteer aid, are all deserving of personal
+ mention for their gallantry and services.
+
+ For details, see reports of engineers, medical director and
+ commanders of divisions and brigades to follow.
+
+ I have the honor to be, General, very respectfully your obedient
+ servant,
+ U. S. GRANT,
+ _Brigadier-General U. S. A._, _commanding_.
+
+ _____
+
+[Copy.] (p. 374)
+
+_General Buckner to General Grant._
+
+ Headquarters, Fort Donelson,
+ To February 16th, 1862.
+ BRIGADIER-GENERAL U.S. GRANT,
+ Commanding United States Forces near Fort Donelson.
+
+ Sir: In consideration of all the circumstances governing the
+ present situation of affairs at this station, I propose to the
+ commanding officer of the Federal forces the appointment of
+ commissioners to agree upon terms of capitulation of the forces
+ and post under my command, and in that view suggest an armistice
+ until twelve o'clock to-day.
+
+ I am, Sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ S. B. BUCKNER,
+ _Brigadier-General C. S. A._
+
+ _____
+
+[Copy.]
+
+_General Grant to General Buckner._
+
+ Headquarters, Army in the Field,
+ To Fort Donelson, February 16th, 1862.
+ GENERAL S. B. BUCKNER,
+ Confederate Army.
+
+ Sir: Yours of this date proposing armistice and appointment of
+ commissioners to settle terms of capitulation, is just received.
+ No terms except unconditional and immediate surrender can be
+ accepted. I propose to move immediately upon your works.
+
+ I am, Sir, very respectfully your obedient servant,
+ U. S. GRANT,
+ _Brigadier-General commanding_.
+
+ _____
+
+[Copy.]
+
+_General Buckner to General Grant._
+
+ Headquarters, Dover, Tennessee,
+ To February 16th, 1862.
+ BRIGADIER-GENERAL GRANT,
+ United States Army.
+
+ Sir: The distribution of the forces under my command, incident to
+ an unexpected change of commanders, and the overwhelming force
+ under your command, compel me, notwithstanding the brilliant
+ success of the Confederate arms yesterday, to accept the
+ ungenerous and unchivalrous terms which you propose.
+
+ I am, Sir, your very obedient servant,
+ S. B. BUCKNER,
+ _General commanding C. S. A._
+
+ _____
+
+_General Orders No. 2._ (p. 375)
+
+ Headquarters, District of West Tennessee,
+ Fort Donelson, February 17th, 1862.
+
+ The general commanding takes great pleasure in congratulating the
+ troops of this command for the triumph over rebellion gained by
+ their valor on the 13th, 14th, and 15th instant.
+
+ For four successive nights, without shelter during the most
+ inclement weather known in this latitude, they faced an enemy in
+ large force in a position chosen by himself. Though strongly
+ fortified by nature, all the safeguards suggested by science were
+ added. Without a murmur this was borne, prepared at all times to
+ receive an attack, and with continuous skirmishing by day,
+ resulting ultimately in forcing the enemy to surrender without
+ conditions.
+
+ The victory achieved is not only great in breaking down
+ rebellion, but has secured the greatest number of prisoners of
+ war ever taken in one battle on this continent.
+
+ Fort Donelson will hereafter be marked in capitals on the maps of
+ our united country, and the men who fought the battle will live
+ in the memory of a grateful people.
+
+ U. S. GRANT,
+ _Major-General commanding_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Grant to the Assistant Adjutant-General._
+
+ To Headquarters, Department of the Tennessee,
+ COLONEL J. C. KELTON, Vicksburg, Mississippi, July 6, 1863
+ Assistant Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Colonel: I have the honor to submit the following report of the
+ operations of the Army of the Tennessee, and co-operating forces,
+ from the date of my assuming the immediate command of the
+ expedition against Vicksburg, Mississippi, to the reduction of
+ that place.
+
+ From the moment of taking command in person I became satisfied
+ that Vicksburg could only be turned from the south side, and, in
+ accordance with this conviction, I prosecuted the work on the
+ canal, which had been located by Brigadier-General Williams,
+ across the peninsula, on the Louisiana side of the river, with
+ all vigor, hoping to make a channel which would pass transports
+ for moving the army and carrying supplies to the new base of
+ operations thus provided. The task was much more herculean than
+ it at first appeared, and was made much more so by the almost
+ continuous rains that fell during the whole of the time this work
+ was prosecuted. The river, too, continued to rise and make a
+ large expenditure of labor necessary to keep the water out of our
+ camps and the canal.
+
+ Finally, on the 8th of March, the rapid rise of the river (p. 376)
+ and the consequent great pressure upon the dam across the
+ canal, near the upper end, at the main Mississippi levee, caused
+ it to give way and let through the low lands at the back of our
+ camps a torrent of water that separated the north and south
+ shores of the peninsula as effectually as if the Mississippi
+ flowed between them. This occurred when the enterprise promised
+ success within a short time. There was some delay in trying to
+ repair damages. It was found, however, that with the then stage
+ of water, some other plan would have to be adopted for getting
+ below Vicksburg with transports.
+
+ Captain F. E. Prime, Chief Engineer, and Colonel G. G. Pride, who
+ was acting on my staff, prospected a route through the bayous
+ which run from near Milliken's Bend on the north and New Carthage
+ on the south, through Roundaway Bayou into the Tensas river.
+ Their report of the practicability of this route determined me to
+ commence work upon it. Having three dredge boats at the time, the
+ work of opening this work was executed with great rapidity. One
+ small steamer and a number of barges were taken through the
+ channel thus opened, but the river commencing about the middle of
+ April to fall rapidly, and the roads becoming passable between
+ Milliken's Bend and New Carthage, made it impracticable and
+ unnecessary to open water communication between these points.
+
+ Soon after commencing the first canal spoken of, I caused a
+ channel to be cut from the Mississippi river into Lake
+ Providence; also one from the Mississippi river into Coldwater,
+ by way of Yazoo Pass.
+
+ I had no great expectations of important results from the former
+ of these, but having more troops than could be employed to
+ advantage at Young's Point, and knowing that Lake Providence was
+ connected by Bayou Baxter with Bayou Macon, a navigable stream
+ through which transports might pass into the Mississippi below,
+ through Tensas, Wachita, and Red rivers, I thought it possible
+ that a route might be opened in that direction which would enable
+ me to co-operate with General Banks at Port Hudson.
+
+ By the Yazoo Pass route I only expected at first to get into the
+ Yazoo by way of Coldwater and Tallahatchie with some lighter
+ gunboats and a few troops and destroy the enemy's transports in
+ that stream and some gunboats which I knew he was building. The
+ navigation, however, proved so much better than had been expected
+ that I thought for a time of the possibility of making this the
+ route for obtaining a foothold on high land above Haines Bluff,
+ Mississippi, and small class steamers were accordingly ordered
+ for transporting an army that way. Major-General J. B. McPherson,
+ commanding seventeenth army corps, was directed to have his corps
+ in readiness to move by this route; and one division from each
+ the thirteenth and fifteenth corps were collected near the
+ entrance of the Pass to be added to his command. It soon became
+ evident that a sufficient number of boats of the right class
+ could not be obtained for the movement of more than one division.
+
+ Whilst my forces were opening one end of the Pass the enemy was
+ diligently closing the other end, and in this way succeeded in
+ gaining time to strongly fortify Greenwood, below the junction of
+ the Tallahatchie and Yallobusha. The advance of the expedition,
+ consisting of one division of McClernand's corps from Helena,
+ commanded by Brigadier-General L. F. Ross, and the 12th and 17th
+ regiments of Missouri infantry, from Sherman's corps, as (p. 377)
+ sharpshooters on the gunboats, succeeded in reaching Coldwater
+ on the 2d day of March, after much difficulty, and the partial
+ disabling of most of the boats. From the entrance into Coldwater
+ to Fort Pemberton, at Greenwood, Mississippi, no great difficulty
+ of navigation was experienced nor any interruption of magnitude
+ from the enemy. Fort Pemberton extends from the Tallahatchie to
+ the Yazoo at Greenwood. Here the two rivers come within a few
+ hundred yards of each other. The land around the fort is low, and
+ at the time of the attack was entirely overflowed. Owing to this
+ fact, no movement could be made by the army to reduce it, but all
+ depended upon the ability of the gunboats to silence the guns of
+ the enemy and enable the transports to run down and land troops
+ immediately on the fort itself. After an engagement of several
+ hours the gunboats drew off, being unable to silence the
+ batteries. Brigadier-General I. F. Quinby, commanding a division
+ of McPherson's corps, met the expedition under Ross with his
+ division on its return from Fort Pemberton, on the 21st of March,
+ and being the senior, assumed command of the entire expedition,
+ and returned to the position Ross had occupied.
+
+ On the 23d of March I sent orders for the withdrawal of all the
+ forces operating in that direction, for the purpose of
+ concentrating my army on Milliken's Bend.
+
+ On the 14th day of March, Admiral D. D. Porter, commanding
+ Mississippi squadron, informed me that he had made a
+ reconnoissance up Steele's Bayou, and partially through Black
+ Bayou toward Deer Creek, and so far as explored these water
+ courses were reported navigable for the smaller iron-clads.
+ Information given mostly, I believe, by the negroes of the
+ country, was to the effect that Deer Creek could be navigated to
+ Rolling Fork, and that from there through the Sunflower to the
+ Yazoo river there was no question about the navigation. On the
+ following morning I accompanied Admiral Porter in the ram Price,
+ several iron-clads preceding us, up through Steele's Bayou to
+ near Black Bayou.
+
+ At this time our forces were at a dead-lock at Greenwood, and I
+ looked upon the success of this enterprise as of vast importance.
+ It would, if successful, leave Greenwood between two forces of
+ ours, and would necessarily cause the immediate abandonment of
+ that stronghold.
+
+ About thirty steamers of the enemy would have been destroyed or
+ fallen into our hands. Seeing that the great obstacle to
+ navigation, so far as I had gone, was from overhanging trees, I
+ left Admiral Porter near Black Bayou and pushed back to Young's
+ Point for the purpose of sending forward a Pioneer corps to
+ remove these difficulties. Soon after my return to Young's Point
+ Admiral Porter sent back to me for a co-operating force. Sherman
+ was promptly sent with one division of his corps. The number of
+ steamers suitable for the navigation of these bayous being
+ limited, most of the force was sent up the Mississippi river to
+ Eagle's Bend, a point where the river runs within one mile of
+ Steele's Bayou, thus saving an important part of this difficult
+ navigation. The expedition failed, probably more from want of
+ knowledge as to what would be required to open this route than
+ from any impracticability in the navigation of the streams and
+ bayous through which it was proposed to pass. Want of this
+ knowledge led the expedition on until difficulties were
+ encountered, and then it would become necessary to send back to
+ Young's Point for the means of removing them. This gave the enemy
+ time to move forces to effectually checkmate further (p. 378)
+ progress, and the expedition was withdrawn when within a few
+ hundred yards of free and open navigation to the Yazoo.
+
+ All this may have been providential in driving us ultimately to a
+ line of operations which has proven eminently successful.
+
+ For further particulars of Steele's Bayou expedition see report
+ of Major-General W. T. Sherman, forwarded on the 12th of April.
+
+ As soon as I decided to open water communication from a point on
+ the Mississippi near Milliken's Bend to New Carthage I determined
+ to occupy the latter place, it being the first point below
+ Vicksburg that could be reached by land at the stage of water
+ then existing, and the occupancy of which, while it secured to us
+ a point on the Mississippi river, would also protect the main
+ line of communication by water. Accordingly the thirteenth army
+ corps, Major-General J. A. McClernand commanding, was directed to
+ take up its line of march on the 29th day of March for New
+ Carthage, the fifteenth and seventeenth corps to follow, moving
+ no faster than supplies and ammunition could be transported to
+ them.
+
+ The roads though level were intolerably bad, and the movement was
+ therefore necessarily slow. Arriving at Smith's Plantation, two
+ miles from New Carthage, it was found that the levee of Bayou
+ Vidal was broken in several places, thus leaving New Carthage an
+ island.
+
+ All the boats that could be were collected from the different
+ bayous in the vicinity, and others were built, but the
+ transportation of an army in this way was found exceedingly
+ tedious. Another route had to be found. This was done by making a
+ further march around Vidal to Perkins' Plantation, a distance of
+ twelve miles more, making the whole distance to be marched from
+ Milliken's Bend to reach water communication on the opposite side
+ of the point thirty-five miles. Over this distance, with bad
+ roads to contend against, supplies of ordnance stores and
+ provisions had to be hauled by wagons with which to commence the
+ campaign on the opposite side of the river.
+
+ At the same time that I ordered the occupation of New Carthage,
+ preparations were made for running transports by the Vicksburg
+ batteries with Admiral Porter's gunboat fleet.
+
+ On the night of the 16th of April Admiral Porter's fleet and the
+ transports Silver Wave, Forest Queen, and Henry Clay ran the
+ Vicksburg batteries. The boilers of the transports were protected
+ as well as possible with hay and cotton. More or less commissary
+ stores were put on each. All three of these boats were struck
+ more or less frequently while passing the enemy's batteries, and
+ the Henry Clay, by the explosion of a shell or by other means,
+ was set on fire and entirely consumed. The other two boats were
+ somewhat injured, but not seriously disabled. No one on board of
+ either was hurt.
+
+ As these boats succeeded in getting by so well, I ordered six
+ more to be prepared in like manner for running the batteries.
+ These latter, viz.: Tigress, Anglo-Saxon, Cheeseman, Empire City,
+ Horizonia, and Moderator, left Milliken's Bend on the night of
+ the 22d April, and five of them got by, but in a somewhat damaged
+ condition. The Tigress received a shot in her hull below the
+ water line, and sunk on the Louisiana shore soon after passing
+ the last of the batteries. The crews of these steamers, with (p. 379)
+ the exception of that of the Forest Queen, Captain D. Conway,
+ and the Silver Wave, Captain McMillan, were composed of
+ volunteers from the army. Upon the call for volunteers for this
+ dangerous enterprise, officers and men presented themselves by
+ hundreds, anxious to undertake the trip. The names of those whose
+ services were accepted will be given in a separate report.
+
+ It is a striking feature, so far as my observation goes, of the
+ present volunteer army of the United States, that there is
+ nothing which men are called upon to do, mechanical or
+ professional, that accomplished adepts cannot be found for the
+ duty required in almost every regiment.
+
+ The transports injured in running the blockade were repaired by
+ order of Admiral Porter, who was supplied with the material for
+ such repairs as they required, and who was and is ever ready to
+ afford all the assistance in his power for the furtherance of the
+ success of our arms. In a very short time five of the transports
+ were in running order, and the remainder were in a condition to
+ be used as barges in the moving of troops. Twelve barges loaded
+ with forage and rations were sent in tow of the last six boats
+ that run the blockade; one half of them got through in a
+ condition to be used.
+
+ Owing to the limited number of transports below Vicksburg it was
+ found necessary to extend our line of travel to Hard Times,
+ Louisiana, which, by the circuitous route it was necessary to
+ take, increased the distance to about seventy miles from
+ Milliken's Bend, our starting point.
+
+ The thirteenth army corps being all through to the Mississippi
+ and the seventeenth army corps well on the way, so much of the
+ thirteenth as could be got on board the transports and barges
+ were put aboard and moved to the front of Grand Gulf on the 29th
+ of April. The plan here was that the navy should silence the guns
+ of the enemy, and the troops land under cover of the gunboats and
+ carry the place by storm.
+
+ At 8 o'clock A.M. the navy made the attack, and kept it up for
+ more than five hours in the most gallant manner. From a tug out
+ in the stream I witnessed the whole engagement. Many times it
+ seemed to me the gunboats were within pistol-shot of the enemy's
+ batteries. It soon became evident that the guns of the enemy were
+ too elevated and their fortifications too strong to be taken from
+ the water side. The whole range of hills on that side were known
+ to be lined with rifle-pits, besides the field artillery could be
+ moved to any position where it could be made useful in case of an
+ attempt at landing. This determined me to again run the enemy's
+ batteries, turn his position by affecting a landing at Rodney, or
+ at Bruinsburg, between Grand Gulf and Rodney. Accordingly orders
+ were immediately given for the troops to debark at Hard Times,
+ Louisiana, and march across to the point immediately below Grand
+ Gulf. At dark the gunboats again engaged the batteries, and all
+ the transports run by, receiving but two or three shots in the
+ passage, and these without injury. I had some time previously
+ ordered a reconnoissance to a point opposite Bruinsburg, to
+ ascertain if possible from persons in the neighborhood the
+ character of the road leading to the highlands back of
+ Bruinsburg. During the night I learned from a negro man that
+ there was a good road from Bruinsburg to Port Gibson, which
+ determined me to land there.
+
+ The work of ferrying the troops to Bruinsburg was commenced (p. 380)
+ at daylight in the morning, the gunboats as well as transports
+ being used for the purpose.
+
+ As soon as the thirteenth army corps was landed, and could draw
+ three days' rations to put in haversacks (no wagons were allowed
+ to cross until the troops were all over) they were started on the
+ road to Port Gibson. I deemed it a matter of vast importance that
+ the highlands should be reached without resistance.
+
+ The seventeenth corps followed as rapidly as it could be put
+ across the river.
+
+ About 2 o'clock on the 1st of May, the advance of the enemy was
+ met eight miles from Bruinsburg, on the road to Port Gibson. He
+ was forced to fall back, but as it was dark, he was not pursued
+ far until daylight. Early on the morning of the 1st I went out,
+ accompanied by members of my staff, and found McClernand with his
+ corps engaging the enemy about four miles from Port Gibson. At
+ this point the roads branched in exactly opposite directions,
+ both, however, leading to Port Gibson. The enemy had taken
+ position on both branches, thus dividing as he fell back the
+ pursuing forces. The nature of the ground in that part of the
+ country is such that a very small force could retard the progress
+ of a much larger one for many hours. The roads usually run on
+ narrow, elevated ridges, with deep and impenetrable ravines on
+ either side. On the right were the divisions of Hovey, Carr, and
+ Smith, and on the left the division of Osterhaus, of McClernand's
+ corps. The three former succeeded in driving the enemy from
+ position to position back toward Port Gibson steadily all day.
+
+ Osterhaus did not, however, move the enemy from the position
+ occupied by him on our left until Logan's division of McPherson's
+ corps arrived.
+
+ McClernand, who was with the right in person, sent repeated
+ messages to me before the arrival of Logan to send Logan's and
+ Quinby's divisions of McPherson's corps to him.
+
+ I had been on that as well as all other parts of the field, and
+ could see how they could be used there to advantage. However, as
+ soon as the advance of McPherson's corps (Logan's division)
+ arrived, I sent one brigade to McClernand on the right, and sent
+ one brigade, Brigadier-General J. E. Smith commanding, to the
+ left to the assistance of Osterhaus.
+
+ By the judicious disposition made of this brigade, under the
+ immediate supervision of McPherson and Logan, a position was soon
+ obtained giving us an advantage which soon drove the enemy from
+ that part of the field, to make no further stand south of Bayou
+ Pierre.
+
+ The enemy was here repulsed with a heavy loss in killed, wounded,
+ and prisoners. The repulse of the enemy on our left took place
+ late in the afternoon. He was pursued toward Port Gibson, but
+ night closing in, and the enemy making the appearance of another
+ stand, the troops slept upon their arms until daylight.
+
+ In the morning it was found that the enemy had retreated across
+ Bayou Pierre, on the Grand Gulf road, and a brigade of Logan's
+ division was sent to divert his attention whilst a floating
+ bridge was being built across Bayou Pierre immediately at Port
+ Gibson. This bridge was completed, eight miles marched by
+ McPherson's corps to the north fork of Bayou Pierre, that stream
+ bridged, and the advance of this corps commenced passing over it
+ at 5 o'clock the following morning.
+
+ On the 3d the enemy was pursued to Hawkinson's Ferry, with (p. 381)
+ slight skirmishing all day, during which we took quite a
+ number of prisoners, mostly stragglers from the enemy.
+
+ Finding that Grand Gulf had been evacuated, and that the advance
+ of my forces was already fifteen miles out from there, and on the
+ road, too, they would have to take to reach either Vicksburg,
+ Jackson, or any intermediate point on the railroad between the
+ two places, I determined not to march them back, but taking a
+ small escort of cavalry, some fifteen or twenty men, I went to
+ the gulf myself, and made the necessary arrangements for changing
+ my base of supplies from Bruinsburg to Grand Gulf.
+
+ In moving from Milliken's Bend, the fifteenth army corps,
+ Major-General W. T. Sherman commanding, was left to be the last
+ to start. To prevent heavy re-enforcements going from Vicksburg
+ to the assistance of the Grand Gulf forces, I directed Sherman to
+ make a demonstration on Haines's Bluff, and to make all the
+ _show_ possible. From the information since received from
+ prisoners captured this ruse succeeded admirably.
+
+ It had been my intention, up to the time of crossing the
+ Mississippi river, to collect all my forces at Grand Gulf, and
+ get on hand a good supply of provisions and ordnance stores
+ before moving, and in the meantime to detach an army corps to
+ co-operate with General Banks on Port Hudson and effect a
+ junction of our forces.
+
+ About this time I received a letter from General Banks giving his
+ position west of the Mississippi river, and stating that he could
+ return to Baton Rouge by the 10th of May; that by the reduction
+ of Port Hudson he could join me with 12,000 men.
+
+ I learned about the same time that troops were expected at
+ Jackson from the southern cities with General Beauregard in
+ command. To delay until the 10th of May, and for the reduction of
+ Port Hudson after that, the accession of 12,000 men would not
+ leave me relatively so strong as to move promptly with what I
+ had. Information received from day to day of the movements of the
+ enemy also impelled me to the course pursued. Whilst lying at
+ Hawkinson's Ferry waiting for wagons, supplies, and Sherman's
+ corps, which had come forward in the mean time, demonstrations
+ were made, successfully, I believe, to induce the enemy to think
+ that route and the one by Hall's Ferry above were objects of much
+ solicitude to me. Reconnoissances were made to the west side of
+ the Big Black to within six miles of Warrenton. On the 7th of May
+ an advance was ordered, McPherson's corps keeping the road
+ nearest Black river to Rocky Springs, McClernand's corps keeping
+ the Ridge road, with his corps divided on the two roads. All the
+ ferries were closely guarded until our troops were well advanced.
+ It was my intention here to hug the Black river as closely as
+ possible, with McClernand's and Sherman's corps, and get them to
+ the railroad, at some place between Edward's Station and Bolton.
+ McPherson was to move by way of Utica to Raymond, and from there
+ into Jackson, destroying the railroad, telegraph, and public
+ stores, etc., and push west to rejoin the main force. Orders were
+ given to McPherson accordingly. Sherman was moved forward on the
+ Edward's Station road, crossing Fourteen Mile creek at Dillon's
+ Plantation; McClernand was moved across the same creek, further
+ west, sending one division of his corps by the Baldwin's Ferry
+ road as far as the river. At the crossing of Fourteen Mile (p. 382)
+ creek both McClernand and Sherman had considerable skirmishing
+ with the enemy to get possession of the crossing.
+
+ McPherson met the enemy near Raymond, two brigades strong under
+ Gregg and Walker, on the same day engaged him, and after several
+ hours hard fighting, drove him with heavy loss in killed,
+ wounded, and prisoners. Many threw down their arms and deserted.
+
+ My position at this time was with Sherman's corps, some seven
+ miles west of Raymond, and about the centre of the army.
+
+ On the night of the 12th of May, after orders had been given for
+ the corps of McClernand and Sherman to march toward the railroads
+ by parallel roads, the former in the direction of Edward's
+ Station and the latter to a point on the railroad between
+ Edward's Station and Bolton, the order was changed and both were
+ directed to move toward Raymond.
+
+ This was in consequence of the enemy having retreated toward
+ Jackson after his defeat at Raymond, and of information that
+ re-enforcements were daily arriving at Jackson, and that General
+ Joe Johnston was hourly expected there to take command in person.
+ I therefore determined to make sure of that place and leave no
+ enemy in my rear.
+
+ McPherson moved on the 13th to Clinton, destroyed the railroad
+ and telegraph, and captured some important despatches from
+ General Pemberton to General Gregg, who had commanded the day
+ before in the battle of Raymond. Sherman moved to a parallel
+ position on the Mississippi Springs and Jackson road; McClernand
+ moved to a point near Raymond.
+
+ The next day Sherman and McPherson moved their entire forces
+ toward Jackson. The rain fell in torrents all the night before,
+ and continued until about noon of that day making the roads at
+ first slippery and then miry, notwithstanding, the troops marched
+ in excellent order without straggling and in the best of spirits
+ about fourteen miles, and engaged the enemy about 12 o'clock, M.,
+ near Jackson. McClernand occupied Clinton with one division,
+ Mississippi Springs with another, Raymond with a third, and had
+ his fourth division and Blair's division of Sherman's corps with
+ a wagon train still in the rear near New Auburn, while McArthur
+ with one brigade of his division of McPherson's corps was moving
+ toward Raymond on the Utica road. It was not the intention to
+ move these forces any nearer Jackson, but to have them in a
+ position where they would be in supporting distance if the
+ resistance at Jackson should prove more obstinate than there
+ seemed reason to expect.
+
+ The enemy marched out the bulk of his force on the Clinton road
+ and engaged McPherson's corps about two and a half miles from the
+ city. A small force of artillery and infantry took a strong
+ position in front of Sherman, about the same distance out. By a
+ determined advance of our skirmishers these latter were soon
+ driven within their rifle-pits just outside the city. It was
+ impossible to ascertain the strength of the enemy at this part of
+ the line in time to justify an immediate assault; consequently
+ McPherson's two divisions engaged the main bulk of the rebel
+ garrison at Jackson, without further aid than the moral support
+ given them by the knowledge the enemy had a force to the south
+ side of the city and the few infantry and artillery of the enemy
+ posted there to impede Sherman's progress. Sherman soon
+ discovered the weakness of the enemy by sending a (p. 383)
+ reconnoitering party to his right, which also had the effect of
+ causing the enemy to retreat from this part of his line. A few of
+ the artillerists, however, remained in their places, firing upon
+ Sherman's troops, until the last moment, evidently instructed to
+ do so, with the expectation of being captured in the end. On
+ entering the city it was found that the main body of the enemy
+ had retreated north, after a heavy engagement of more than two
+ hours with McPherson's corps, in which he was badly beaten. He
+ was pursued until near night, but without further damage to him.
+
+ During that evening I learned that General Johnston, as soon as
+ he satisfied himself that Jackson was to be attacked, had ordered
+ Pemberton peremptorily to march out from the direction of
+ Vicksburg and attack our rear. Availing myself of this
+ information, I immediately issued orders to McClernand and Blair,
+ of Sherman's corps, to face their troops towards Bolton, with a
+ view of reaching Edward's Station, marching on different roads
+ converging near Bolton. These troops were admirably located for
+ such a move. McPherson was ordered to retrace his steps early in
+ the morning of the 15th on the Clinton road. Sherman was left in
+ Jackson to destroy the railroads, bridges, factories, workshops,
+ arsenals, and everything valuable for the support of the enemy.
+ This was accomplished in the most effectual manner.
+
+ On the afternoon of the 15th I proceeded as far west as Clinton,
+ through which place McPherson's corps passed to within supporting
+ distance of Hovey's division of McClernand's corps, which had
+ moved that day on the same road to within one and a half mile of
+ Bolton. On reaching Clinton, at 4.45 P.M., I ordered McClernand
+ to move his command early the next morning toward Edward's
+ Station, marching so as to feel the enemy, if he encountered him,
+ but not to bring on a general engagement unless he was confident
+ he was able to defeat him; and also to order Blair to move with
+ him.
+
+ About five o'clock on the morning of the 16th, two men, employees
+ on the Jackson and Vicksburg railroad, who had passed through
+ Pemberton's army the night before, were brought to my
+ headquarters. They stated Pemberton's force to consist of about
+ eighty regiments, with ten batteries of artillery, and that the
+ whole force was estimated by the enemy at about twenty-five
+ thousand men. From them I also learned the positions being taken
+ up by the enemy, and his intention of attacking our rear. I had
+ determined to leave one division of Sherman's corps one day
+ longer in Jackson, but this information determined me to bring
+ his entire command up at once, and I accordingly dispatched him
+ at 5.30 A.M. to move with all possible speed until he came up
+ with the main force near Bolton. My despatch reached him at 7.10
+ A.M., and his advance division was in motion in one hour from
+ that time. A despatch was sent to Blair at the same time, to push
+ forward his division in the direction of Edward's Station with
+ all possible dispatch. McClernand was directed to establish
+ communication between Blair and Osterhaus, of his corps, and keep
+ it up, moving the former to the support of the latter. McPherson
+ was ordered forward at 5.45 A.M. to join McClernand, and
+ Lieutenant-Colonel Wilson, of my staff, was sent forward to
+ communicate the information received, and with verbal
+ instructions to McClernand as to the disposition of his forces.
+ At an early hour I left for the advance, and on arriving at the
+ crossing of the Vicksburg and Jackson railroad with the road (p. 384)
+ from Raymond to Bolton, I found McPherson's advance and his
+ pioneer corps engaged in rebuilding a bridge on the former road
+ that had been destroyed by the cavalry of Osterhaus's division
+ that had gone into Bolton the night before. The train of Hovey's
+ division was at a halt, and blocked up the road from further
+ advance on the Vicksburg road. I ordered all quartermasters and
+ wagonmasters to draw their teams to one side and make room for
+ the passage of troops. McPherson was brought up by this road.
+ Passing to the front, I found Hovey's division of the thirteenth
+ army corps at a halt, with our skirmishers and the enemy's
+ pickets near each other. Hovey was bringing his troops into line,
+ ready for battle, and could have brought on an engagement at any
+ moment. The enemy had taken up a very strong position on a narrow
+ ridge, his left resting on a height where the road makes a sharp
+ turn to the left approaching Vicksburg. The top of the ridge and
+ the precipitous hill-side to the left of the road are covered by
+ a dense forest and undergrowth. To the right of the road the
+ timber extends a short distance down the hill, and then opens
+ into cultivated fields on a gentle slope and into a valley
+ extending for a considerable distance. On the road and into the
+ wooded ravine and hill-side Hovey's division was disposed for the
+ attack. McPherson's two divisions, all of his corps with him on
+ the march from Milliken's Bend (until Ransom's brigade arrived
+ that day after the battle), were thrown to the right of the road
+ properly speaking, the enemy's rear. But I would not permit an
+ attack to be commenced by our troops until I could hear from
+ McClernand, who was advancing with four divisions, two of them on
+ a road intersecting the Jackson road about one mile from where
+ the troops above described were placed, and about the centre of
+ the enemy's line; the other two divisions on a road still north
+ and nearly the same distance off.
+
+ I soon heard from McClernand, through members of his staff and my
+ own, whom I had sent to him early in the morning, and found that
+ by the nearest practicable route of communication he was two and
+ a half miles distant. I sent several successive messages to him
+ to push forward with all rapidity. There had been continuous
+ firing between Hovey's skirmishers and the rebel advance, which
+ by 11 o'clock grew into a battle. For some time this division
+ bore the brunt of the conflict, but finding the enemy too strong
+ for them, at the instance of Hovey I directed first one and then
+ a second brigade from Crocker's division to re-enforce him. All
+ this time Logan's division was working upon the enemy's left and
+ rear and weakened his front attack most wonderfully. The troops
+ here opposing us evidently far outnumbered ours. Expecting
+ McClernand momentarily with four divisions, including Blair's, I
+ never felt a doubt at the result. He did not arrive, however,
+ until the enemy had been driven from the field, after a terrible
+ contest of hours, with a heavy loss of killed, wounded and
+ prisoners, and a number of pieces of artillery. It was found
+ afterward that the Vicksburg road, after following the ridge in a
+ southerly direction for about one mile and to where it
+ intersected one of the Raymond roads, turns almost to the west,
+ down the hill and across the valley in which Logan was operating
+ on the rear of the enemy. One brigade of Logan's division had,
+ unconscious of this important fact, penetrated nearly to this
+ road and compelled the enemy to retreat to prevent capture. As it
+ was, much of his artillery and Loring's division of his army was
+ cut off, besides the prisoners captured. On the call of Hovey
+ for more re-enforcements, just before the rout of the enemy (p. 385)
+ commenced, I ordered McPherson to move what troops he could by a
+ left flank around to the enemy's front. Logan rode up at this
+ time and told me that if Hovey could make another dash at the
+ enemy he could come up from where he then was and capture the
+ greater part of their force. I immediately rode forward and found
+ the troops that had been so gallantly engaged for so many hours
+ withdrawn from their advanced position and were filling their
+ cartridge boxes. I directed them to use all dispatch and push
+ forward as soon as possible, explaining to them the position of
+ Logan's division. Proceeding still further forward, expecting
+ every moment to see the enemy, and reaching what had been his
+ line, I found he was retreating. Arriving at the Raymond road, I
+ saw to my left and on the next ridge a column of troops which
+ proved to be Can's division and McClernand with it in person; and
+ to the left of Carr, Osterhaus's division soon afterward appeared
+ with his skirmishers well in advance. I sent word to Osterhaus
+ that the enemy was in full retreat, and to push up with all
+ haste. The situation was soon explained, after which I ordered
+ Carr to pursue with all speed to Black river, and across it if he
+ could, and to Osterhaus to follow. Some of McPherson's troops had
+ already got into the road in advance, but having marched and
+ engaged the enemy all day they were fatigued, and gave the road
+ to Carr who continued the pursuit until after dark, capturing a
+ train of cars loaded with commissary and ordnance stores and
+ other property.
+
+ The delay in the advance of the troops immediately with
+ McClernand was caused, no doubt, by the enemy presenting a front
+ of artillery and infantry where it was impossible, from the
+ nature of the ground and the density of the forest, to discover
+ his numbers. As it was, the battle of Champion's Hill or Baker's
+ Creek was fought mainly by Hovey's division of McClernand's corps
+ and Logan's and Quinby's divisions (the latter commanded by
+ Brigadier-General M. M. Crocker) of McPherson's corps.
+
+ Ransom's brigade, of McPherson's corps, came on to the field
+ where the main battle had been fought immediately after the enemy
+ had begun his retreat.
+
+ Word was sent to Sherman, at Bolton, of the result of the day's
+ engagement, with directions to turn his corps toward Bridgeport,
+ and to Blair to join him at this latter place.
+
+ At daylight, on the 17th, the pursuit was renewed with
+ McClernand's corps in the advance. The enemy was found strongly
+ posted on both sides of the Black river. At this point, on Black
+ river, the bluffs extended to the water's edge on the west bank.
+ On the east side is an open, cultivated bottom of near one mile
+ in width, surrounded by a bayou of stagnant water, from two to
+ three feet in depth, and from ten to twenty feet in width, from
+ the river above the railroad to the river below. Following the
+ inside line of this bayou the enemy had constructed rifle-pits,
+ with the bayou to serve as a ditch on the outside and immediately
+ in front of them. Carr's division occupied the right in investing
+ this place, and Lawless brigade the right of his division. After
+ a few hours skirmishing Lawler discovered that by moving a
+ portion of his brigade under cover of the river bank he could get
+ a position from which that place could be successfully assaulted,
+ and ordered a charge accordingly. Notwithstanding the level
+ ground over which a portion of his troops had to pass without
+ cover, and the great obstacle of the ditch in front of the
+ enemy's works, the charge was gallantly and successfully (p. 386)
+ made, and in a few minutes the entire garrison with seventeen
+ pieces of artillery were the trophies of this brilliant and
+ daring movement. The enemy on the west bank of the river
+ immediately set fire to the railroad bridge and retreated, thus
+ cutting off all chance of escape for any portion of his forces
+ remaining on the east bank.
+
+ Sherman, by this time, had reached Bridgeport, on the Black river
+ above. The only pontoon train with the expedition was with him.
+ By the morning of the 18th he had crossed the river, and was
+ ready to march on Walnut Hills. McClernand and McPherson built
+ floating bridges during the night, and had them ready for
+ crossing their commands by 8 A.M. of the 18th.
+
+ The march was commenced by Sherman at an early hour by the
+ Bridgeport and Vicksburg road, turning to the right when within
+ three and a half miles of Vicksburg to get possession of Walnut
+ Hills and the Yazoo river. This was successfully accomplished
+ before the night of the 18th. McPherson crossed Black river above
+ the Jackson road, and came into the same road with Sherman, but
+ to his rear. He arrived after nightfall with his advance to where
+ Sherman turned to the right. McClernand moved by the Jackson and
+ Vicksburg road to Mount Albans, and there turned to the left to
+ get into Baldwin's Ferry road. By this disposition the three army
+ corps covered all the ground their strength would admit of, and
+ by the morning of the 19th the investment of Vicksburg was made
+ as complete as could be by the forces at my command.
+
+ During the day there was continuous skirmishing, and I was not
+ without hope of carrying the enemy's works. Relying upon the
+ demoralization of the enemy in consequence of repeated defeats
+ outside of Vicksburg, I ordered a general assault at 2 P.M. on
+ this day.
+
+ The fifteenth army corps, from having arrived in front of the
+ enemy's works in time on the 18th to get a good position, were
+ enabled to make a vigorous assault. The thirteenth and
+ seventeenth corps succeeded no further than to gain advanced
+ positions, covered from the fire of the enemy. The 20th and 21st
+ were spent in perfecting communications with our supplies. Most
+ of the troops had been marching and fighting battles for twenty
+ days, on an average of about five days' rations, drawn from the
+ commissary department. Though they had not suffered from short
+ rations up to this time, the want of bread to accompany the other
+ rations was beginning to be much felt. On the 21st my
+ arrangements for drawing supplies of every description being
+ complete, I determined to make another effort to carry Vicksburg
+ by assault. There were many reasons to determine me to adopt this
+ course. I believed an assault from the position gained by this
+ time could be made successfully. It was known that Johnston was
+ at Canton with the force taken by him from Jackson, re-enforced
+ by other troops from the east, and that more were daily reaching
+ him. With the force I had, a short time must have enabled him to
+ attack me in the rear, and possibly succeeded in raising the
+ siege. Possession of Vicksburg at that time would have enabled me
+ to have turned upon Johnston and driven him from the State, and
+ possess myself of all the railroads and practical military
+ highways, thus effectually securing to ourselves all territory
+ west of the Tombigbee, and this before the season was too far
+ advanced for campaigning in this latitude. I would have saved (p. 387)
+ government sending large re-enforcements much needed elsewhere;
+ and finally, the troops themselves were impatient to possess
+ Vicksburg, and would not have worked in the trenches with the
+ same zeal, believing it unnecessary, that they did after the
+ failure to carry the enemy's works. Accordingly on the 21st
+ orders were issued for a general assault on the whole line, to
+ commence at 11 A.M. on the 22d. All the corps commanders set
+ their time by mine, that there should be no difference between
+ them in movement of assault. Promptly at the hour designated, the
+ three army corps then in front of the enemy's works commenced the
+ assault. I had taken a commanding position near McPherson's
+ front, and from which I could see all the advancing columns from
+ his corps, and a part of each of Sherman's and McClernand's. A
+ portion of the commands of each succeeded in planting their flags
+ on the outer slopes of the enemy's bastions and maintained them
+ there until night. Each corps had many more men than could
+ possibly be used in the assault, over such ground as intervened
+ between them and the enemy. More men could only avail in case of
+ breaking through the enemy's line or in repelling a sortie. The
+ assault was gallant in the extreme on the part of all the troops,
+ but the enemy's position was too strong, both naturally and
+ artificially, to be taken in that way. At every point assaulted,
+ and at all of them at the same time, the enemy was able to show
+ all the force his works could cover. The assault failed, I regret
+ to say, with much loss on our side in killed and wounded, but
+ without weakening the confidence of the troops in their ability
+ to ultimately succeed.
+
+ No troops succeeded in entering any of the enemy's works with the
+ exception of Sergeant Griffith, of the 21st regiment Iowa
+ volunteers, and some eleven privates of the same regiment. Of
+ these none returned except the sergeant and possibly one man. The
+ work entered by him, from its position, could give us no
+ practical advantage, unless others to the right and left of it
+ were carried and held at the same time.
+
+ About 12 M., I received a despatch from McClernand that he was
+ hard pressed at several points, in reply to which I directed him
+ to re-enforce the points hard pressed from such troops as he had
+ that were not engaged. I then rode round to Sherman, and had just
+ reached there, when I received a second despatch from McClernand
+ stating positively and unequivocally that he was in possession of
+ and still held two of the enemy's forts; that the American flag
+ was then waved over them, and asking me to have Sherman and
+ McPherson make a diversion in his favor. This despatch I showed
+ to Sherman, who immediately ordered a renewal of the assault on
+ his front. I also sent a messenger to McClernand, directing him
+ to order up McArthur to his assistance, and started immediately
+ to the position I had just left on McPherson's line to convey to
+ him the information from McClernand by this last despatch, that
+ he might make the diversion requested. Before reaching McPherson
+ I met a messenger with a third despatch from McClernand, of which
+ the following is a copy:
+
+ Headquarters 13th Army Corps,
+ To In the Field near Vicksburg, Mississippi,
+ MAJOR-GENERAL U. S. GRANT. May 22d, 1863.
+
+ General: We have gained the enemy's intrenchments at several
+ points, but are brought to a stand. I have sent word to McArthur
+ to re-enforce me if he can. Would it not be best to (p. 388)
+ concentrate the whole or part of his command on this point?
+
+ John A. MCCLERNAND,
+ _Major-General commanding_.
+
+ P.S. I have received your despatch, my troops are all engaged,
+ and I cannot withdraw any to re-enforce others.
+
+ MCCLERNAND.
+
+ The position occupied by me during most of the time of the
+ assault gave me a better opportunity of seeing what was going on
+ in front of the thirteenth army corps than I believed it possible
+ for the commander of it to have. I could not see his possession
+ of forts, nor necessity for re-enforcements, as represented in
+ his despatches, up to the time I left it, which was between 12 M.
+ and 1 P.M., and I expressed doubts of their correctness, which
+ doubts the facts subsequently, but too late, confirmed. At the
+ time I could not disregard his reiterated statements, for they
+ might possibly be true; and that no possible opportunity of
+ carrying the enemy's stronghold should be allowed to escape
+ through fault of mine, I ordered Quinby's division, which was all
+ of McPherson's corps then present, but four brigades, to report
+ to McClernand, and notified him of the order. I showed his
+ despatches to McPherson, as I had to Sherman, to satisfy him of
+ the necessity of an active diversion on their part to hold as
+ much force in their fronts as possible. The diversion was
+ promptly and vigorously made and resulted in the increase of our
+ mortality list full fifty per cent., without advancing our
+ position or giving us other advantages.
+
+ About 3.50 P.M., I received McClernand's fourth despatch, as
+ follows:
+
+ To Headquarters 13th Army Corps,
+ MAJOR-GENERAL U. S. GRANT, May 22, 1863.
+ Department of the Tennessee.
+
+ General: I have received your despatch in regard to General
+ Quinby's division and General McArthur's division. As soon as
+ they arrive I will press the enemy with all possible speed, and
+ doubt not I will force my way through. I have lost no ground. My
+ men are in two of the enemy's forts, but they are commanded by
+ rifle pits in the rear. Several prisoners have been taken who
+ intimate that the rear is strong. At this moment I am hard
+ pressed.
+
+ John A. MCCLERNAND,
+ _Major-General commanding_.
+
+ The assault of this day proved the quality of the soldiers of
+ this army. Without entire success, and with a heavy loss, there
+ was no murmuring or complaining, no falling back, nor other
+ evidence of demoralization.
+
+ After the failure of the 22d, I determined upon a regular siege.
+ The troops now being fully awake to the necessity of this worked
+ diligently and cheerfully. The work progressed rapidly and
+ satisfactorily until the 3d of July, when all was about ready for
+ a final assault.
+
+ There was a great scarcity of Engineer officers in the beginning,
+ but under the skillful superintendence of Captain F. E. Prime, of
+ the Engineer corps, Lieutenant-Colonel Wilson, of my staff, (p. 389)
+ and Captain C. B. Comstock, of the Engineer corps, who joined
+ this command during the siege, such practical experience was
+ gained as would enable any division of this army hereafter to
+ conduct a siege with considerable skill in the absence of regular
+ Engineer officers.
+
+ On the afternoon of the 3d of July a letter was received from
+ Lieutenant-General Pemberton, commanding the Confederate forces
+ at Vicksburg, proposing an armistice and the appointment of
+ commissioners to arrange terms for the capitulation of the place.
+ The correspondence, copies of which are herewith transmitted,
+ resulted in the surrender of the city and garrison of Vicksburg
+ at 10 o'clock A.M., July 4, 1863, on the following terms: The
+ entire garrison, officers and men, were to be paroled, not to
+ take up arms against the United States until exchanged by the
+ proper authorities; officers and men each to be furnished with a
+ parole, signed by himself; officers to be allowed then side arms
+ and private baggage, and the field, staff and cavalry officers
+ one horse each; the rank and file to be allowed all their
+ clothing, but no other property; rations from their own stores
+ sufficient to last them beyond our lines; the necessary cooking
+ utensils for preparing their food; and thirty wagons to transport
+ such articles as could not well be carried. These terms I
+ regarded more favorable to the government than an unconditional
+ surrender. It saved us the transportation of them north, which at
+ that time would have been very difficult, owing to the limited
+ amount of river transportation on hand, and the expenses of
+ subsisting them. It left our army free to operate against
+ Johnston, who was threatening us from the direction of Jackson,
+ and our river transportation to be used for the movement of
+ troops to any point the exigency of the service might require.
+
+ I deem it proper to state here, in order that the correspondence
+ may be fully understood, that after my answer to General
+ Pemberton's letter of the morning of the 3d, we had a personal
+ interview on the subject of the capitulation.
+
+ The particulars and incidents of the siege will be contained in
+ the reports of division and corps commanders, which will be
+ forwarded as soon as received.
+
+ I brought forward during the siege, in addition to Lauman's
+ division and four regiments previously ordered from Memphis,
+ Smith's and Kimball's divisions of the sixteenth army corps, and
+ assigned Major-General C. C. Washburne to command of same. On the
+ 11th of June, Major-General F. J. Herron's division from the
+ Department of the Missouri arrived; and on the 14th two divisions
+ of the ninth army corps, Major-General J. G. Parke commanding,
+ arrived. This increase in my force enabled me to make the
+ investment most complete, and at the same time left me a large
+ reserve to watch the movements of Johnston. Herron's division was
+ put into position on the extreme south of the city, and Lauman's
+ division was placed between Herron and McClernand. Smith's and
+ Kimball's divisions and Parke's corps were sent to Haines's
+ Bluff. This place I had fortified to the land side and every
+ preparation made to resist a heavy force. Johnston crossed Big
+ Black river with a portion of his force, and everything indicated
+ that he would make an attack about the 25th of June. Our position
+ in front of Vicksburg having been made as strong against a sortie
+ from the enemy as his works were against an assault, I placed
+ Major-General Sherman in command of all the troops designated
+ to look after Johnston. The force intended to operate against
+ Johnston, in addition to that at Haines's Bluff, was
+ one division from each of the thirteenth, fifteenth, and (p. 390)
+ seventeenth army corps and Lauman's division. Johnston, however,
+ not attacking, I determined to attack him the moment Vicksburg
+ was in our possession, and accordingly notified Sherman that I
+ should again make an assault on Vicksburg at daylight on the 6th,
+ and for him to have up supplies of all descriptions ready to move
+ upon receipt of orders if the assault should prove a success. His
+ preparations were immediately made, and when the place
+ surrendered on the 4th two days earlier than I fixed for the
+ attack, Sherman was found ready, and moved at once with a force
+ increased by the remainder of both the thirteenth and fifteenth
+ army corps, and is at present investing Jackson where Johnston
+ has made a stand.
+
+ In the march from Bruinsburg to Vicksburg, covering a period of
+ twenty days, before supplies could be obtained from government
+ stores, only five days' rations were issued, and three days' of
+ these were taken in haversacks at the start, and were soon
+ exhausted. All other subsistence was obtained from the country
+ through which we passed. The march was commenced without wagons,
+ except such as could be picked up through the country. The
+ country was abundantly supplied with corn, bacon, beef and
+ mutton. The troops enjoyed excellent health, and no army ever
+ appeared in better spirits or felt more confident of success.
+
+ In accordance with previous instructions, Major-General S. A.
+ Hurlbut started Colonel (now Brigadier-General) B. H. Grierson
+ with a cavalry force from La Grange, Tennessee, to make a raid
+ through the central portion of the State of Mississippi to
+ destroy railroads and other public property, for the purpose of
+ creating a diversion in favor of the army moving to the attack on
+ Vicksburg. On the 17th of April this expedition started, and
+ arrived at Baton Rouge on the 2d of May, having successfully
+ traversed the whole State of Mississippi. This expedition was
+ skillfully conducted and reflects great credit on Colonel
+ Grierson and all of his command. The notice given the raid by the
+ Southern press confirms our estimate of its importance. It has
+ been one of the most brilliant cavalry exploits of the war, and
+ will be handed down in history as an example to be imitated.
+ Colonel Grierson's report is herewith transmitted.
+
+ I cannot close this report without an expression of thankfulness
+ for my good fortune in being placed in co-operation with an
+ officer of the navy who accords to every move that seems for the
+ interest and success of our arms his hearty and energetic
+ support. Admiral Porter and the very efficient officers under him
+ have ever shown the greatest readiness in their co-operation, no
+ matter what was to be done or what risk to be taken, either by
+ their men or their vessels. Without this prompt and cordial
+ support my movements would have been much embarrassed, if not
+ wholly defeated.
+
+ Captain J. U. Shirk, commanding the Tuscumbia, was especially
+ active and deserving of the highest commendation for his personal
+ attention to the repairing of the damage done our transports by
+ the Vicksburg batteries.
+
+ The result of this campaign has been the defeat of the enemy in
+ five battles outside of Vicksburg; the occupation of Jackson, the
+ capital of the State of Mississippi, and the capture of Vicksburg
+ and its garrison and munitions of war; a loss to the enemy of
+ thirty-seven thousand (37,000) prisoners, among whom were fifteen
+ general officers; at least ten thousand men killed and (p. 391)
+ wounded, and among the killed Generals Tracy, Tilghman and Green,
+ and hundreds and perhaps thousands of stragglers, who can never
+ be collected and reorganized. Arms and munitions of war for an
+ army of sixty thousand men have fallen into our hands, besides a
+ large amount of other public property, consisting of railroads,
+ locomotives, cars, steamboats, cotton, &c., and much was
+ destroyed to prevent our capturing it.
+
+ Our loss in the series of battles may be summed up as follows:
+
+ Killed. Wounded. Missing.
+
+ Port Gibson 130 718 5
+ Fourteen Mile creek (skirmish) 4 24 --
+ Raymond 69 341 32
+ Jackson 40 240 6
+ Champion's Hill 426 1842 189
+ Big Black railroad bridge 29 242 2
+ Vicksburg 545 3688 303
+
+ Of the wounded many were but slightly wounded, and continued on
+ duty; many more required but a few days or weeks for their
+ recovery. Not more than one-half of the wounded were permanently
+ disabled.
+
+ My personal staff and chiefs of departments have in all cases
+ rendered prompt and efficient service.
+
+ In all former reports I have failed to make mention of company A,
+ 4th regiment Illinois cavalry volunteers, Captain S. D. Osband
+ commanding. This company has been on duty with me as an escort
+ company since November, 1861, and in every engagement I have been
+ in since that time rendered valuable service, attracting general
+ attention for their exemplary conduct, soldierly bearings and
+ promptness. It would not be overstating the merits of this
+ company to say that many of them would fill with credit any
+ position in a cavalry regiment.
+
+ For the brilliant achievements recounted in this report, the Army
+ of the Tennessee, their comrades of the Ninth Army corps,
+ Herron's division of the Army of the Frontier, and the navy
+ co-operating with them, deserve the highest honors their country
+ can award.
+
+ I have the honor to be, Colonel, very respectfully your obedient
+ servant,
+ U. S. GRANT,
+ _Major-General United States Army_, _commanding_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Pemberton to General Grant._
+
+ To Headquarters, Vicksburg,
+ MAJOR-GENERAL U. S. GRANT, July 3, 1863.
+ Commanding United States Forces before Vicksburg.
+
+ General: I have the honor to propose to you an armistice
+ for--hours, with a view of arranging terms for the capitulation
+ of Vicksburg. To this end, if agreeable to you, I will (p. 392)
+ appoint three commissioners to meet a like number to be named
+ by yourself at such place and hour to-day as you may find
+ convenient.
+
+ I make this proposition to save the further effusion of blood,
+ which must otherwise be shed to a frightful extent, feeling
+ myself fully able to maintain my position for a yet indefinite
+ period.
+
+ This communication will be handed you under flag of truce by
+ Major-General J. S. Bowen.
+
+ Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ J. C. PEMBERTON,
+ _Lieutenant-General_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Grant to General Pemberton._
+
+ Headquarters, Department of the Tennessee,
+ To In the Field, near Vicksburg, Mississippi, July 3, 1863.
+ LIEUTENANT-GENERAL J. C. PEMBERTON,
+ Commanding Confederate Forces, Vicksburg, Mississippi.
+
+ General: Your note of this date is just received, proposing an
+ armistice for several hours for the purpose of arranging terms of
+ capitulation through commissioners to be appointed, etc.
+
+ The useless effusion of blood you propose stopping by this course
+ can be ended at any time you may choose by an unconditional
+ surrender of the city and garrison. Men who have shown so much
+ endurance and courage as those now in Vicksburg will always
+ challenge the respect of all adversaries, and I can assure you
+ will be treated with all respect due to prisoners of war.
+
+ I do not favor the proposition of appointing commissioners to
+ arrange terms of capitulation, because I have no terms other than
+ those indicated above.
+
+ I am, General, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ U. S. GRANT,
+ _Major-General_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Grant to General Pemberton._
+
+ Headquarters, Department of the Tennessee,
+ To Near Vicksburg, Mississippi, July 3, 1863.
+ LIEUTENANT-GENERAL J. C. PEMBERTON,
+ Commanding Confederate Forces, Vicksburg, Mississippi.
+
+ General: In conformity with agreement of this afternoon, I will
+ submit the following proposition for the surrender of the city of
+ Vicksburg, public stores, etc. On your accepting the terms
+ proposed, I will march one division as a guard and take
+ possession at 8 A.M. to-morrow. As soon as rolls can be made out
+ and paroles signed by officers and men, you will be allowed to
+ march out of our lines, the officers taking with them their
+ side-arms and clothing, and the field, staff, and cavalry
+ officers one horse each. The rank and file will be allowed (p. 393)
+ all their clothing, but no other property. If these conditions
+ are accepted, any amount of rations you may deem necessary can be
+ taken from the stores you now have, and also the necessary
+ cooking utensils for preparing them. Thirty wagons, also,
+ counting two horse or mule teams as one, will be allowed to
+ transport such articles as cannot be carried along.
+
+ The same conditions will be allowed to all sick and wounded
+ officers and soldiers as fast as they become able to travel.
+
+ The paroles for these latter must be signed, however, whilst
+ officers are present authorized to sign the roll of prisoners.
+
+ I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ U. S. GRANT,
+ _Major-General_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Pemberton to General Grant._
+
+ To Headquarters, Vicksburg,
+ MAJOR-GENERAL U. S. GRANT, July 3, 1863.
+ Commanding United States Forces before Vicksburg.
+
+ General: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
+ communication of this date, proposing terms of capitulation for
+ this garrison and post.
+
+ In the main your terms are accepted; but in justice both to the
+ honor and spirit of my troops manifested in the defence of
+ Vicksburg, I have to submit the following amendments, which, if
+ acceded to by you, will perfect the agreement between us.
+
+ At 10 o'clock, A.M., to-morrow, I propose to evacuate the works
+ in and around Vicksburg, and to surrender the city and garrison
+ under my command, by marching out with my colors and arms,
+ stacking them in front of my present lines, after which you will
+ take possession.
+
+ Officers to retain their side-arms and personal property, and the
+ rights and property of citizens to be respected.
+
+ I am, General, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ J. C. PEMBERTON,
+ _Lieutenant-General_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Grant to General Pemberton._
+
+ Headquarters, Department of the Tennessee,
+ To Before Vicksburg, July 4, 1863.
+ LIEUTENANT-GENERAL J. C. PEMBERTON,
+ Commanding Confederate Forces, Vicksburg, Mississippi.
+
+ General: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
+ communication of 3d July. The amendment proposed by you cannot be
+ acceded to in full. It will be necessary to furnish every (p. 394)
+ officer and man with a parole signed by himself, which with
+ the completion of the roll of prisoners, will necessarily take
+ some time. Again I can make no stipulations with regard to the
+ treatment of citizens and their private property. While I do not
+ propose to cause them any undue annoyance or loss, I cannot
+ consent to leave myself under any restraint by stipulations. The
+ property which officers will be allowed to take with them will be
+ as stated in my proposition of last evening; that is, officers
+ will be allowed their private baggage and side arms, and mounted
+ officers one horse each.
+
+ If you mean by your proposition for each brigade to march to the
+ front of the lines now occupied by it, and stack arms at 10 A.M.,
+ and then return to the inside and there remain as prisoners
+ until properly paroled, I will make no objection to it.
+
+ Should no notification be received of your acceptance of my terms
+ by 9 o'clock A.M., I shall regard them as having been rejected,
+ and shall act accordingly.
+
+ Should these terms be accepted, white flags should be displayed
+ along your lines to prevent such of my troops as may not have
+ been notified from firing upon your men.
+
+ I am, General, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ U. S. GRANT,
+ _Major-General_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Pemberton to General Grant._
+
+ To Headquarter, Vicksburg,
+ MAJOR-GENERAL U. S. GRANT, July 4, 1863.
+ Commanding United States Forces before Vicksburg.
+
+ General: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
+ communication of this day, and in reply to say that the terms
+ proposed by you are accepted.
+
+ Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ J. C. PEMBERTON,
+ _Lieutenant-General_.
+
+ _____
+
+_General Grant to the Assistant Adjutant-General._
+
+ Headquarters, Military Division of the Mississippi,
+ To In the Field, Chattanooga, Tennessee,
+ COLONEL J. C. KELTON, December 23d, 1863.
+ Assistant Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Colonel: In pursuance of General Orders, No. 337, War Department,
+ of date Washington, October 16th, 1863, delivered to me by the
+ Secretary of War, at Louisville, Kentucky, on the 18th of the
+ same month, I assumed command of the "Military Division of the
+ Mississippi," comprising the Departments of the Ohio, the
+ Cumberland, and the Tennessee, and telegraphed the order (p. 395)
+ assuming command, together with the order of the War
+ Department, referred to, to Major-General A. E. Burnside, at
+ Knoxville, and to Major-General W. S. Rosecrans, at Chattanooga.
+ My action in telegraphing these orders to Chattanooga in advance
+ of my arrival there, was induced by information furnished me by
+ the Secretary of War, of the difficulties with which the Army of
+ the Cumberland had to contend in supplying itself over a long,
+ mountainous, and almost impassable road from Stevenson, Alabama,
+ to Chattanooga, Tennessee, and his fears that General Rosecrans
+ would fall back to the north side of the Tennessee river. To
+ guard further against the possibility of the Secretary's fears, I
+ also telegraphed to Major-General Thomas on the 19th of October,
+ from Louisville, to hold Chattanooga at all hazards; that I would
+ be there as soon as possible. To which he replied, on same date,
+ "I will hold the town till we starve."
+
+ Proceeding directly to Chattanooga, I arrived there on the 23d of
+ October, and found that General Thomas had immediately, on being
+ placed in command of the Department of the Cumberland, ordered
+ the concentration of Major-General Hooker's command at Bridgeport
+ preparatory to securing the river and main wagon road between
+ that place and Brown's Ferry, immediately below Lookout Mountain.
+ The next morning after my arrival at Chattanooga, in company with
+ Thomas and Brigadier-General W. F. Smith, Chief Engineer, I made
+ a reconnoissance of Brown's Ferry and the hills on the south side
+ of the river, and at the mouth of Lookout Valley. After the
+ reconnoissance, the plan agreed upon was for Hooker to cross at
+ Bridgeport to the south side of the river with all the force that
+ could be spared from the railroad, and move on the main wagon
+ road by way of Whitesides to Wauhatchie, in Lookout Valley.
+ Major-General J. M. Palmer was to proceed by the only practicable
+ route north of the river from his position opposite Chattanooga,
+ to a point on the north bank of the Tennessee river, and opposite
+ Whitesides, there to cross to the south side to hold the road
+ passed over by Hooker. In the meantime and before the enemy could
+ be apprised of our intentions, a force under the direction of
+ Brigadier-General W. F. Smith, Chief Engineer, was to be thrown
+ across the river at or near Brown's Ferry to seize the range of
+ hills at the mouth of Lookout Valley, covering the Brown's Ferry
+ road, and orders were given accordingly.
+
+ It was known that the enemy held the north end of Lookout Valley
+ with a brigade of troops, and the road leading around the foot of
+ the mountain from their main camps in Chattanooga Valley to
+ Lookout Valley. Holding these advantages, he would have had
+ little difficulty in concentrating a sufficient force to have
+ defeated or driven Hooker back. To remedy this the seizure of the
+ range of hills at the mouth of Lookout Valley and covering the
+ Brown's Ferry road was deemed of the highest importance. This, by
+ the use of pontoon bridges at Chattanooga and Brown's Ferry,
+ would secure to us by the north bank of the river, across
+ Moccasin Point, a shorter line by which to re-enforce our troops
+ in Lookout Valley, than the narrow and tortuous road around the
+ foot of Lookout Mountain afforded the enemy for re-enforcing his.
+
+ The force detailed for this expedition consisted of four thousand
+ men, under command of General Smith, Chief Engineer, eighteen
+ hundred of which under Brigadier-General W. B. Hagen, in sixty
+ pontoon boats, containing thirty armed men each, floated (p. 396)
+ quietly from Chattanooga past the enemy's pickets to the
+ foot of Lookout Mountain on the night of the 27th of October,
+ landed on the south side of the river at Brown's Ferry, surprised
+ the enemy's pickets stationed there, and seized the hills
+ covering the ferry, without the loss of a man killed and but four
+ or five wounded. The remainder of the force, together with the
+ material for a bridge, was moved by the north bank of the river
+ across Moccasin Point to Brown's Ferry, without attracting the
+ attention of the enemy, and before day dawned the whole force was
+ ferried to the south bank of the river; 2nd the almost
+ inaccessible heights rising from Lookout Valley, at its outlet to
+ the river and below the mouth of Lookout creek were secured. By
+ ten o'clock A.M. an excellent pontoon bridge was laid across the
+ river at Brown's Ferry, thus securing to us the end of the
+ desired road nearer the enemy's forces, and the shorter line over
+ which to pass troops if a battle became inevitable. Positions
+ were taken up by our troops from which they could not have been
+ driven except by vastly superior forces, and then only with great
+ loss of the enemy. Our artillery was placed in such position as
+ to completely command the roads leading from the enemy's main
+ camps in Chattanooga Valley to Lookout Valley.
+
+ On the 28th Hooker emerged into Lookout Valley at Wauhatchie by
+ the direct road from Bridgeport by way of Whitesides to
+ Chattanooga, with the 11th Army Corps, under Major-General
+ Howard, and Geary's Division of the 12th Army Corps, and
+ proceeded to take up positions for the defence of the road from
+ Whitesides, over which he had marched, and also the road leading
+ from Brown's Ferry to Kelly's Ferry, throwing the left of
+ Howard's Corps forward to Brown's Ferry. The Division that
+ started under command of Palmer for Whitesides, reached its
+ destination, and took up the position intended in the original
+ plan of this movement. Three movements so successfully executed,
+ secured to us two comparatively good lines by which to obtain
+ supplies from the terminus of the railroad at Bridgeport, namely,
+ the main wagon road by way of Whitesides, Wauhatchie, and Brown's
+ Ferry, distant but twenty-eight miles, and the Kelly's Ferry and
+ Brown's Ferry road, which, by the use of the river from
+ Bridgeport to Kelly's Ferry, reduced the distance for wagoning to
+ but eight miles.
+
+ Up to this period our forces at Chattanooga were practically
+ invested, the enemy's lines extending from the Tennessee river
+ above Chattanooga to the river at and below the point of Lookout
+ Mountain below Chattanooga, with the south bank of the river
+ picketed to near Bridgeport, his main force being fortified in
+ Chattanooga Valley, at the foot of and on Missionary Ridge and
+ Lookout Mountain, and a brigade in Lookout Valley. True, we held
+ possession of the country north of the river, but it was from
+ sixty to seventy miles over the most impracticable of roads to
+ any supplies. The artillery horses and mules had become so
+ reduced by starvation that they could not have been relied on for
+ moving anything. An attempt at retreat must have been with men
+ alone, and with only such supplies as they could carry. A retreat
+ would have been almost certain annihilation, for the enemy,
+ occupying positions within gunshot of, and overlooking our very
+ fortifications, would unquestionably have pursued our retreating
+ forces. Already more than ten thousand animals had perished in
+ supplying half rations to the troops by the long and tedious
+ route from Stevenson and Bridgeport to Chattanooga, over (p. 397)
+ Waldron's Ridge. They could not have been supplied another
+ week.
+
+ The enemy was evidently fully apprised of our condition in
+ Chattanooga, and of the necessity of our establishing a new and
+ shorter line by which to obtain supplies, if we would maintain
+ our position, and so fully was he impressed of the importance of
+ keeping from us these lines, lost to him by surprise, and in a
+ manner he little dreamed of, that in order to regain possession
+ of them, a night attack was made by a portion of Longstreet's
+ forces on a portion of Hooker's troops (Geary's Division of the
+ 12th Corps) the first night after Hooker's arrival in the valley.
+ This attack failed, however, and Howard's Corps, which was moving
+ to the assistance of Geary, finding that it was not required by
+ him, carried the remaining heights held by the enemy west of
+ Lookout Creek. This gave us quiet possession of the line of
+ communication heretofore described south of the Tennessee river.
+
+ Of these operations I cannot speak more particularly, the
+ sub-reports having been sent to Washington without passing
+ through my hands.
+
+ By the use of two steamboats, one of which had been left at
+ Chattanooga by the enemy and fell into our hands, and one that
+ had been built by us at Bridgeport, plying between Bridgeport and
+ Kelly's Ferry, we were enabled to obtain supplies with but eight
+ miles of wagoning. The capacity of the railroad and steamboats
+ was not sufficient, however, to supply all the wants of the army,
+ but actual suffering was prevented.
+
+ Ascertaining from scouts and deserters that Bragg was detaching
+ Longstreet from the front and moving him in the direction of
+ Knoxville, Tennessee, evidently to attack Burnside, and feeling
+ strongly the necessity of some move that would compel him to
+ retain all his forces and recall those he had detached,
+ directions were given for a movement against Missionary Ridge
+ with a view of carrying it, and threatening the enemy's
+ communication with Longstreet, of which I informed Burnside by
+ telegraph on the 7th of November. After a thorough reconnoissance
+ of the ground, however, it was deemed utterly impracticable to
+ make the move until Sherman could get up, because of the
+ inadequacy of our force and the condition of the animals then at
+ Chattanooga, and I was forced to leave Burnside, for the present,
+ to contend against superior forces of the enemy until the arrival
+ of Sherman with his men and means of transportation. In the
+ meantime reconnoissances were made and plans matured for
+ operations. Despatches were sent to Sherman, informing him of the
+ movement of Longstreet and the necessity of his immediate
+ presence at Chattanooga. On the 14th of November, I telegraphed
+ to Burnside as follows:
+
+ "To
+ "MAJOR-GENERAL A. E. BURNSIDE.
+
+ "Your despatch and Dana's just received. Being there, you can
+ tell better how to resist Longstreet's attack than I can direct.
+ With your showing you had better give up Kingston at the last
+ moment, and save the most productive part of your possessions.
+ Every arrangement is now made to throw Sherman's forces across
+ the river just at and below the mouth of Chicamauga creek, as
+ soon as it arrives. Thomas will attack on his left at the same
+ time, and together it is expected to carry Missionary Ridge (p. 398)
+ and from there push a force on to the railroad between
+ Cleveland and Dalton. Hooker will at the same time attack and, if
+ he can, carry Lookout Mountain, The enemy now seem to be looking
+ for an attack on his left flank. This favors us. To further
+ confirm this, Sherman's advance division will march direct from
+ Whitesides to Trenton. The remainder of his force will pass over
+ a new road just made from Whitesides to Kelly's Ferry, thus being
+ concealed from the enemy, and leave him to suppose the whole
+ force is going up Lookout Valley.
+
+ "Sherman's advance has only just reached Bridgeport. The rear
+ will only reach there on the 16th. This will bring it to the
+ 19th, as the earliest day for making the combined movement as
+ desired.
+
+ "Inform me if you think you can sustain yourself until that time.
+ I can hardly conceive of the enemy breaking through at Kingston
+ and pushing for Kentucky. If they should, however, a new problem
+ would be left for solution.
+
+ "Thomas has ordered a division of cavalry to the vicinity of
+ Sparta. I will ascertain, if they have started and inform you. It
+ will be entirely out of the question to send you ten thousand
+ men, not because they cannot be spared, but how could they be fed
+ after they got even one day east of here.
+
+ "U. S. GRANT,
+ "_Major-General_."
+
+ On the 15th, having received from the General-in-Chief a despatch
+ of date the 14th, in reference to Burnside's position, the danger
+ of his abandonment of East Tennessee, unless immediate relief was
+ afforded, and the terrible misfortune such a result would be to
+ our arms; and also despatches from Mr. C. A. Dana, Assistant
+ Secretary of War, and Colonel Wilson, of my Staff, sent at the
+ instance of General Burnside, informing me more fully of the
+ condition of affairs as detailed to them by him, I telegraphed
+ him as follows:
+
+ "To Chattanooga, November 15th, 1863.
+ "MAJOR-GENERAL A. E. BURNSIDE.
+
+ "I do not know how to impress on you the necessity of holding on
+ to East Tennessee in strong enough terms. According to the
+ despatches of Mr. Dana and Colonel Wilson, it would seem that you
+ should, if pressed to do it, hold on to Knoxville and that
+ portion of the valley which you will necessarily possess, holding
+ to that point. Should Longstreet move his whole force across the
+ Little Tennessee, an effort should be made to cut his pontoons on
+ that stream, even if it sacrificed half the cavalry of the Ohio
+ army. By holding on and placing Longstreet between the Little
+ Tennessee and Knoxville, he should not be allowed to escape with
+ an army capable of doing anything this winter. I can hardly
+ conceive of the necessity of retreating from East Tennessee. If I
+ did so at all, it would be after losing most of the army, and
+ then necessity would suggest the route. I will not attempt to lay
+ out a line of retreat. Kingston, looking at the map, I thought of
+ more importance than any one point in East Tennessee. But my
+ attention being called more closely to it, I can see that it
+ might be passed by, and Knoxville and the rich valley about it
+ possessed, ignoring that place entirely. I should not think it
+ advisable to concentrate a force near the Little Tennessee; (p. 399)
+ to resist the crossing of it would be in danger of capture, but I
+ would harass and embarrass progress in every way possible,
+ reflecting on the fact that the Army of the Ohio is not the only
+ army to resist the onward progress of the enemy.
+
+ "U. S. GRANT,
+ "_Major-General_."
+
+ Previous reconnoissances, made first by Brigadier-General W. F.
+ Smith, Chief Engineer, and afterward by Thomas Sherman, and
+ myself in company with him, of the country opposite Chattanooga
+ and north of the Tennessee river, extending as far east as the
+ mouth of the North Chicamauga, and also of the mouth of the South
+ Chicamauga, and the north end of Missionary Ridge, so far as the
+ same could be made from the north bank of the river, without
+ exciting suspicions on the part of the enemy, showed good roads
+ from Brown's Ferry up the river and back of the first range of
+ hills opposite Chattanooga, and out of view of the enemy's
+ positions. Troops crossing the bridge at Brown's Ferry could be
+ seen and their numbers estimated by the enemy, but not seeing
+ anything further of them as they passed up in rear of these
+ hills, he would necessarily be at a loss to know whether they
+ were moving to Knoxville or held on the north side of the river
+ for further operations at Chattanooga. It also showed that the
+ north end of Missionary Ridge was imperfectly guarded, and that
+ the banks of the river from the mouth of South Chicamauga Creek,
+ westward to his main line in front of Chattanooga, were watched
+ only by a small cavalry picket. This determined the plan of
+ operations indicated in my despatch of the 14th to Burnside.
+
+ Upon further consideration, the great object being to mass all
+ the force possible against one given point, namely Missionary
+ Ridge, converging toward the north end of it, it was deemed best
+ to change the original plan, so far as it contemplated Hooker's
+ attack on Lookout Mountain, which would give us Howard's Corps of
+ his command to aid in this purpose, and on the 18th the following
+ instructions were given Thomas:
+
+ "To
+ "MAJOR-GENERAL GEO. H. THOMAS.
+
+ "All preparations should be made for attacking the enemy's
+ position on Missionary Ridge by Saturday at daylight. Not being
+ provided with a map giving names of roads, spurs of the mountain
+ and other places, such definite instructions cannot be given as
+ might be desirable. However, the general plan, you understand, is
+ for Sherman, with the force brought with him, strengthened by a
+ division from your command, to effect a crossing of the Tennessee
+ river just below the mouth of the Chicamauga, his crossing to be
+ protected by artillery from the heights on the north bank of the
+ river (to be located by your chief of artillery), and to secure
+ the heights from the northern extremity to about the railroad
+ tunnel, before the enemy can concentrate against him. You will
+ co-operate with Sherman. The troops in Chattanooga Valley should
+ be well concentrated on your left flank, leaving only the
+ necessary force to defend fortifications on the right and centre,
+ and a movable column of one division in readiness to move whereon
+ ordered. This division should show itself as threateningly as (p. 400)
+ possible on the most practical line for making an attack
+ up the valley Your effort will then be to form a junction with
+ Sherman, making your advance well toward the northern end of
+ Missionary Ridge, and moving as near simultaneously with him as
+ possible. The junction once formed and the ridge carried,
+ communication will at once be established between the two armies
+ by roads on the south bank of the river. Further movements will
+ then depend on those of the enemy. Lookout Valley, I think, will
+ be easily held by Geary's Division and what troops you may still
+ have there belonging to the old army of the Cumberland. Howard's
+ corps can then be held in readiness to act either with you at
+ Chattanooga, or with Sherman. It should be marched on Friday
+ night to a position on the north side of the river, not lower
+ down than the first pontoon bridge, and there held in readiness
+ for such orders as may become necessary. All the troops will be
+ provided with two days cooked rations in haversacks and one
+ hundred rounds of ammunition on the person of each infantry
+ soldier. Special care should be taken by all officers to see that
+ no ammunition is wasted or unnecessarily fired away. You will
+ call on the Engineer Department for such preparations as you may
+ deem necessary for carrying your infantry and artillery over the
+ creek.
+
+ "U. S. GRANT,
+ "_Major-General_."
+
+ A copy of these instructions was furnished Sherman with the
+ following communication:
+
+ "To
+ "MAJOR-GENERAL W. T. SHERMAN.
+
+ "Enclosed herewith I send you copy of instructions to
+ Major-General Thomas. You having been over the ground in person,
+ and having heard the whole matter discussed, further instructions
+ will not be necessary for you. It is particularly desirable that
+ a force should be got through to the railroad between Cleveland
+ and Dalton, and Longstreet thus cut off from communication with
+ the South; but being confronted by a large force here, strongly
+ located, it is not easy to tell how this is to be effected, until
+ the result of our first effort is known. I will add, however,
+ what is not now shown in my instructions to Thomas, that a
+ brigade of cavalry has been ordered here which, if it arrives in
+ time, will be thrown across the Tennessee above Chicamauga, and
+ may be able to make the trip to Cleveland or thereabouts.
+
+ "U. S. GRANT,
+ "_Major-General_."
+
+ Sherman's forces were moved from Bridgeport by way of Whitesides,
+ our division threatening the enemy's left flank in the direction
+ of Trenton, crossing at Brown's Ferry, up the north bank of the
+ Tennessee to near the mouth of South Chicamauga, where they were
+ kept concealed from the enemy until they were ready to force a
+ crossing. Pontoons for throwing a bridge across the river were
+ built and placed in the North Chicamauga, near its mouth, a few
+ miles further up, without attracting the attention of the enemy.
+ It was expected we would be able to effect the crossing on the
+ 21st of November, but owing to heavy rains, Sherman was unable
+ to get up until the afternoon of the 23d, and then only with (p. 401)
+ Generals Morgan L. Smith's, John E. Smith's, and Hugh Ewing's
+ divisions of the 15th Corps, under command of Major-General
+ Frank P. Blair, of his army. The pontoon bridge at Brown's Ferry
+ having been broken by the drift consequent upon the rise in the
+ river and rafts sent down by the enemy, the other division
+ (Osterhaus') was detained on the south side, and was on the night
+ of the 23d ordered, unless it could get across by eight o'clock
+ the next morning, to report to Hooker, who was instructed, in
+ this event, to attack Lookout Mountain, as contemplated in the
+ original plan.
+
+ A deserter from the rebel army, who came into our lines on the
+ night of the 22d November, reported Bragg falling back. The
+ following letter from Bragg, received by flag of truce on the
+ 20th, tended to confirm this report:
+
+ "To "Headquarters, Army of the Tennessee,
+ "MAJOR-GENERAL U. S. GRANT, "In the Field, 20th November, 1863.
+ "Commanding United States Forces, Chattanooga.
+
+ "General: As there may still be some non-combatants in
+ Chattanooga, I deem it proper to notify you that prudence would
+ dictate their early withdrawal.
+
+ "I am, General, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ "Braxton BRAGG,
+ "_General commanding_."
+
+ Not being willing that he should get his army off in good order,
+ Thomas was directed early on the morning of the 23d to ascertain
+ the truth or falsity of this report by driving in his pickets and
+ making him develop his line. This he did with the troops
+ stationed at Chattanooga, and Howard's corps (which had been
+ brought into Chattanooga because of the apprehended danger to our
+ pontoon bridges from the rise in the river and the enemy's rafts)
+ in the most gallant style, driving the enemy from his first line
+ and securing to us what is known as "Indian Hill" or "Orchard
+ Knoll," and the low range of hills south of it. These points were
+ fortified during the night and artillery put in position on them.
+ The report of this deserter was evidently not intended to
+ deceive, but he had mistaken Bragg's movements. It was afterward
+ ascertained that one division of Buckner's corps had gone to join
+ Longstreet, and a second division of the same corps had started,
+ but was brought back in consequence of our attack.
+
+ On the night of the 23d of November Sherman, with three divisions
+ of his army, strengthened by Davis' division of Thomas', which
+ had been stationed along on the north bank of the river,
+ convenient to where the crossing was to be effected, was ready
+ for operations.
+
+ At an hour sufficiently early to secure the south bank of the
+ river, just below the mouth of the South Chicamauga, by dawn of
+ day, the pontoons in the North Chicamauga were loaded with thirty
+ armed men each, and floated quietly past the enemy's pickets,
+ landed and captured all but one of the guard, twenty in number,
+ before the enemy was aware of the presence of a foe. The
+ steamboat "Dunbar" with a barge in tow, after having finished
+ ferrying across the river the horses procured from Sherman, with
+ which to move Thomas' artillery, was sent up from Chattanooga to
+ aid in crossing artillery and troops, and by daylight of the (p. 402)
+ morning of the 24th of November, eight thousand men were
+ on the south side of the Tennessee and fortified in rifle
+ trenches. By twelve o'clock M. the pontoon bridges across the
+ Tennessee and the Chicamauga were laid, and the remainder of
+ Sherman's forces crossed over, and at half-past three P.M. the
+ whole of the northern extremity of Missionary Ridge to near the
+ railroad tunnel was in Sherman's possession. During the night he
+ fortified the position thus secured, making it equal if not
+ superior in strength to that held by the enemy.
+
+ By three o'clock of the same day, Colonel Long with his brigade
+ of cavalry of Thomas' army, crossed to the south side of the
+ Tennessee, and to the north of South Chicamauga Creek and made a
+ raid on the enemy's lines of communications. He burned Tyner's
+ station, with many stores, cut the railroad at Cleveland,
+ captured near a hundred wagons, and over two hundred prisoners.
+ His own loss was small.
+
+ Hooker carried out the part assigned him for this day, equal to
+ the most sanguine expectations. With Geary's division (12th
+ Corps) and two brigades of Stanley's division (4th Corps) of
+ Thomas' army, and Osterhaus' division (15th Corps) of Sherman's
+ army, he scaled the western slope of Lookout Mountain, drove the
+ enemy from his rifle pits on the northern extremity and slope of
+ the mountain, capturing many prisoners, without serious loss.
+
+ Thomas having done on the 23d, with his troops in Chattanooga,
+ what was intended for the 24th, bettered and strengthened his
+ advanced position during the day and pushed the 11th Corps
+ forward along the south bank of the Tennessee river across Citico
+ creek, one brigade of which with Howard in person, reached
+ Sherman just as he had completed the crossing of the river.
+
+ When Hooker emerged in sight of the northern extremity of Lookout
+ Mountain, Carlin's brigade of the 14th Corps was ordered to cross
+ Chattanooga creek and form a junction with him. This was effected
+ late in the evening and after considerable fighting.
+
+ Thus on the night of the 24th, our forces maintained an unbroken
+ line with unbroken communications, from the north end of Lookout
+ Mountain through Chattanooga Valley to the north end of
+ Missionary Ridge.
+
+ On the morning of the 25th, Hooker took possession of the
+ mountain top with a small force, and with the remainder of his
+ command in pursuance of orders, swept across Chattanooga Valley,
+ now abandoned by the enemy, to Rossville. In this march he was
+ detained four hours in building a bridge across Chattanooga
+ creek. From Rossville he ascended Missionary Ridge and moved
+ northward toward the centre of the now shortened line.
+
+ Sherman's attack upon the enemy's most northern and most vital
+ points was vigorously kept up all day. The assaulting column
+ advanced to the very rifle pits of the enemy, and held their
+ position firmly and without wavering. The right of the assaulting
+ column being exposed to the danger of being turned, two brigades
+ were sent to its support. These advanced in the most gallant
+ manner over an open field on the mountain side to near the works
+ of the enemy, and laid there, partially covered from fire for
+ some time. The right of these two brigades rested near the head
+ of a ravine or gorge in the mountain side, which the enemy took
+ advantage of, and sent troops, covered from view below them (p. 403)
+ and to their right rear. Being unexpectedly fired into from
+ this direction, they fell back across the open field below them,
+ and reformed in good order in the edge of the timber. The column
+ which attacked them was speedily driven to its entrenchments by
+ the assaulting column proper.
+
+ Sherman's position not only threatened the right flank of the
+ enemy, but, from his occupying a line across the mountain and to
+ the railroad bridge across Chicamauga Creek, his rear and stores
+ at Chicamauga Station. This caused the enemy to mass heavily
+ against him. This movement of his being plainly seen from the
+ position I occupied on Orchard Knoll, Baird's division of the
+ 14th Corps was ordered to Sherman's support; but receiving a note
+ from Sherman informing me that he had all the force necessary,
+ Baird was put in position on Thomas' left.
+
+ The appearance of Hooker's column was at this time anxiously
+ looked for and momentarily expected, moving north on the ridge,
+ with his left in Chattanooga Valley and his right east of the
+ ridge. His approach was intended as the signal for storming the
+ ridge in the centre, with strong columns; but the time
+ necessarily consumed in the construction of the bridge near
+ Chattanooga creek, detained him to a later hour than was
+ expected. Being satisfied, from the latest information from him,
+ that he must by this time be on his road from Rossville, though
+ not yet in sight, and discovering that the enemy in his
+ desperation to defeat or resist the progress of Sherman, was
+ weakening his centre on Missionary Ridge, determined me to order
+ the advance at once. Thomas was accordingly directed to move
+ forward his troops, constituting our centre,--Baird's division
+ (14th Corps), Wood's and Sheridan's divisions (4th Corps), and
+ Johnson's division (14th Corps),--with a double line of
+ skirmishers thrown out, followed in easy supporting distance by
+ the whole force, and carry the rifle pits at the foot of
+ Missionary Ridge, and when carried to reform his lines in the
+ rifle pits with a view to carrying the top of the ridge.
+
+ These troops moved forward, drove the enemy from the rifle pits
+ at the base of the ridge like bees from a hive, stopped but a
+ moment until the whole were in line, and commenced the ascent of
+ the mountain from right to left almost simultaneously, following
+ closely the retreating enemy, without further orders. They
+ encountered a fearful volley of grape and canister from near
+ thirty pieces of artillery, and musketry from still well filled
+ rifle pits on the summit of the ridge. Not a waver, however, was
+ seen in all that long line of brave men. Their progress was
+ steadily onward until the summit was in their possession.
+
+ In this charge the casualties were remarkably few for the fire
+ encountered. I can account for this only on the theory that the
+ enemy's surprise at the audacity of such a charge caused
+ confusion and purposeless aiming of their pieces.
+
+ The nearness of night and the enemy still resisting the advance
+ of Thomas' left, prevented a general pursuit that night, but
+ Sheridan pushed forward to Mission Mills.
+
+ The resistance on Thomas' left being overcome, the enemy
+ abandoned his position near the railroad tunnel in front of
+ Sherman, and by twelve o'clock at night was in full retreat, and
+ the whole of his strong positions on Lookout Mountain,
+ Chattanooga Valley and Missionary Ridge were in our possession,
+ together with a large number of prisoners, artillery, and small
+ arms.
+
+ Thomas was directed to get Granger with his corps, and (p. 404)
+ detachments enough from other commands, including the force
+ available at Kingston, to make twenty thousand men, in readiness
+ to go to the relief of Knoxville, upon the termination of the
+ battle at Chattanooga, these troops to take with them four days'
+ rations and a steamboat loaded with rations to follow up the
+ river.
+
+ On the evening of the 25th November orders were given to both
+ Thomas and Sherman to pursue the enemy early the next morning,
+ with all their available force except that under Granger,
+ intended for the relief of Knoxville.
+
+ On the morning of the 26th Sherman advanced by way of Chicamauga
+ Station, and Thomas' forces, under Hooker and Palmer, moved on
+ the Rossville road toward Grayville and Ringgold.
+
+ The advance of Thomas' forces reached Ringgold on the morning of
+ the 27th, where they found the enemy in strong position in the
+ gorge and on the crest of Taylor's Ridge, from which they
+ dislodged him after a severe fight, in which we lost heavily in
+ valuable officers and men, and continued the pursuit that day
+ until near Tunnel Hill, a distance of twenty miles from
+ Chattanooga.
+
+ Davies' division (14th Corps) of Sherman's column reached
+ Ringgold about noon of the same day. Howard's Corps was sent by
+ Sherman to Red Clay to destroy the railroad between Dalton and
+ Cleveland, and thus cut off Bragg's communication with
+ Longstreet, which was successfully accomplished.
+
+ Had it not been for the imperative necessity of relieving
+ Burnside, I would have pursued the broken and demoralized
+ retreating enemy as long as supplies could have been found in the
+ country. But my advices were that Burnside's supplies would only
+ last until about the 3d of December. It was already getting late
+ to afford the necessary relief. I determined, therefore, to
+ pursue no further. Hooker was directed to hold the position he
+ then occupied until the night of the 31st, but to go no further
+ south at the expense of a fight. Sherman was directed to march to
+ the railroad crossing of the Hiwassee, to protect Granger's flank
+ until he was across that stream, and to prevent further
+ re-enforcements being sent by that route into East Tennessee.
+
+ Returning from the front on the 28th, I found that Granger had
+ not yet got off, nor would he have the number of men I had
+ directed. Besides he moved with reluctance and complaints. I
+ therefore determined, notwithstanding the fact that two divisions
+ of Sherman's forces had marched from Memphis and had gone into
+ battle immediately on their arrival at Chattanooga, to send him
+ with his command, and orders in accordance therewith were sent
+ him at Calhoun, to assume command of the troops with Granger in
+ addition to those with him, and proceed with all possible
+ dispatch to the relief of Burnside.
+
+ General Elliott had been ordered by Thomas on the 26th of
+ November, to proceed from Alexandria, Tennessee, to Knoxville,
+ with his cavalry division to aid in the relief of that place.
+
+ The approach of Sherman caused Longstreet to raise the siege of
+ Knoxville and retreat eastward on the night of the 4th of
+ December. Sherman succeeded in throwing his cavalry into
+ Knoxville on the night of the 3d.
+
+ Sherman arrived in person at Knoxville on the 6th, and after a
+ conference with Burnside in reference to "_organizing a pursuing
+ force large enough to either overtake the enemy and beat him (p. 405)
+ or drive him out of the State_," Burnside was of the opinion
+ that the corps of Granger, in conjunction with his own
+ command, was sufficient for that purpose, and on the 7th
+ addressed to Sherman the following communication:
+
+ "To "Knoxville, December 7th, 1863.
+ "MAJOR-GENERAL SHERMAN.
+
+ "I desire to express to you and to your command my most hearty
+ thanks and gratitude for your promptness in coming to our relief
+ during the siege of Knoxville, and I am satisfied that your
+ approach served to raise the siege. The emergency having passed,
+ I do not deem for the present any other portion of your command,
+ but the corps of General Granger, necessary for operations in
+ this section, and inasmuch as General Grant has weakened the
+ forces immediately with him in order to relieve us, thereby
+ rendering portions of General Thomas' less secure, I deem it
+ advisable that all the troops now here, except those commanded by
+ General Granger, should return at once to within supporting
+ distance of the forces operating against Bragg's army. In behalf
+ of my command I again desire to thank you and your command, for
+ the kindness you have done us.
+
+ "A. E. BURNSIDE, _Major-General_."
+
+ Leaving Granger's command at Knoxville, Sherman with the
+ remainder of his forces returned by slow marches to Chattanooga.
+
+ I have not spoken more particularly of the result of the pursuit
+ of the enemy, because the more detailed reports accompanying this
+ do the subject justice. For the same reason I have not
+ particularized the part taken by Corps and Division Commanders.
+
+ To Brigadier-General W. F. Smith, Chief Engineer, I feel under
+ more than ordinary obligations for the masterly manner in which
+ he discharged the duties of his position, and desire that his
+ services be fully appreciated by higher authority.
+
+ The members of my staff discharged faithfully their respective
+ duties, for which they have my warmest thanks.
+
+ Our losses in these battles were 757 killed, 4529 wounded, and
+ 330 missing; total 5616. The loss of the enemy in killed and
+ wounded was probably less than ours, owing to the fact that he
+ was protected by his entrenchments, while our men were without
+ cover.
+
+ At Knoxville, however, his loss was many times greater than ours,
+ making his entire loss at the two places equal to, if not
+ exceeding ours. We captured 6142 prisoners, of whom 239 were
+ commissioned officers; 40 pieces of artillery, 69 artillery
+ carriages and caissons, and 7000 stand of small arms.
+
+ The armies of the Cumberland and of the Tennessee, for their
+ energy and unsurpassed bravery in the three days battle of
+ Chattanooga and the pursuit of the enemy, heir patient endurance
+ in marching to the relief of Knoxville, and the Army of the Ohio
+ for its masterly defence of Knoxville and repeated repulses of
+ Longstreet's assaults upon that place, are deserving of the
+ gratitude of their country.
+
+ I have the honor to be, Colonel, very respectfully, your obedient
+ servant,
+ U. S. GRANT,
+ _Major-General U. S. A._
+
+
+
+No. 74. (p. 406)
+PLATE LXXIV.
+
+
+_March 17, 1862._
+
+ A grateful country to her generous son Cornelius Vanderbilt.
+ [Rx]. Bis dat qui tempori dat 1865.
+
+CORNELIUS VANDERBILT.
+
+[_Free Gift of Steamship Vanderbilt._]
+
+A GRATEFUL COUNTRY TO HER GENEROUS SON * * * CORNELIUS VANDERBILT * * *.
+Undraped bust of Cornelius Vanderbilt, facing the right. On edge of
+bust, S. ELLIS. F. (_fecit_).
+
+America, personified as Minerva, stands, leaning with her left hand on
+the American shield, and holding in her right a sword which rests on
+her shoulder; to the right the American eagle; to the left, the genius
+of the maritime cities imploring her aid and protection. In the
+background, in the open sea, is the steamer Vanderbilt under steam;
+above, a cloud with thunderbolts. Exergue: BIS DAT QUI TEMPORI
+DAT.[118] (_He gives twice who gives in time._) 1865. ELLIS SC.
+(_sculpsit._) LEUTZE DEL. (_delineavit._)[119]
+
+ [Footnote 118: The Latin proverb is BIS DAT QUI
+ CITO DAT.]
+
+ [Footnote 119: See INTRODUCTION, page viii.]
+
+
+EMANUEL LEUTZE, who designed the reverse of the medal to Cornelius
+Vanderbilt, was born in Gmuenden, Wuerttemberg, May 24, 1816. His
+parents emigrated to America while he was still a child, and settled
+in Fredericksburg, Virginia. In 1841 he went to Europe, and studied
+art at Duesseldorf under Professor Lessing. He returned to America in
+1859, and took up his residence in Washington. Among his principal
+paintings, which are mostly historical, and relate to America, are:
+Columbus before the Council of Salamanca, Columbus in chains, Columbus
+before Queen Isabella, Washington crossing the Delaware, Washington at
+Monmouth, and Washington at Princeton. One of his last works is the
+fresco in the Capitol at Washington, "Westward the star of empire
+takes its way." He died in Washington, July 18, 1868.
+
+
+CORNELIUS VANDERBILT was born on Staten Island, New York, May 27, (p. 407)
+1794. He went to New York city early in life, and engaged in the
+shipping business, in which, by his energy and perseverance, he in
+time acquired wealth, and became owner of several lines of steamers,
+running from New York to places along the coast. In 1851 he
+established a line of steamers to California, and in 1855 another to
+Europe. In March, 1862, he presented to the United States Government
+the magnificent ship which bore his name, for which generous gift
+Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold medal. He was made
+president of the New York and Harlem Railroad Company in May, 1863; of
+the Hudson River Railroad Company in June, 1865; and of the New York
+Central Railroad Company in December, 1867. In November, 1869, the two
+last were consolidated, with a joint capital of ninety millions of
+dollars. He died in the city of New York, January 4, 1877. Cornelius
+Vanderbilt was, at the time of his death, one of the richest men in
+the world. Among his charities was a gift of one million dollars to
+the "Central University of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South," in
+Nashville, Tennessee, which, in consequence of this munificence, was
+named, in honor of him, Vanderbilt University. He was known by the
+sobriquet of "Commodore."
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to Cornelius Vanderbilt._
+
+ _Whereas_, Cornelius Vanderbilt of New York, did, during the
+ spring of 1862, make a free gift to his imperilled country of his
+ new and staunch steamship "Vanderbilt," of five thousand tons
+ burthen, built by him with the greatest care, of the best
+ materials, at a cost of eight hundred thousand dollars, which
+ steamship has ever since been actively employed in the service of
+ the republic against the rebel devastations of her commerce; and
+
+ _Whereas_, The said Cornelius Vanderbilt has in no manner sought
+ any requital of this magnificent gift, nor any official
+ recognition thereof; therefore,
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the thanks
+ of Congress be presented to Cornelius Vanderbilt for this unique
+ manifestation of a fervid and large-souled patriotism.
+
+ SECTION 2. _And be it further resolved_, That the President (p. 408)
+ of the United States be requested to cause a gold medal to
+ be struck, which shall fitly embody an attestation of the
+ nation's gratitude for this gift; which medal shall be forwarded
+ to Cornelius Vanderbilt, a copy of it being made and deposited
+ for preservation in the library of Congress.
+
+ Approved January 28, 1864.
+
+ _____
+
+_The Secretary of State to Cornelius Vanderbilt._
+
+ To Department of State,
+ CORNELIUS VANDERBILT, Esq., Washington, April 17, 1866.
+ New York.
+
+ Sir: I have to inform you that the Congress of the United States,
+ by a resolution of the 28th of January, 1864, an attested copy of
+ which is herewith sent, offered you their thanks for your
+ generous gift to the nation during the last war, of the steamer
+ "Vanderbilt," and requested the President to cause a gold medal
+ to be struck and forwarded to you, commemorative of that gift. It
+ is now my pleasing duty to forward the medal to you accordingly.
+ I avail myself of the occasion to express a hope that it may
+ prove acceptable, and also to congratulate you upon the proud
+ consciousness, which you cannot fail to cherish, of having, by
+ the act referred to, rendered your country a signal service at a
+ critical period in its history.
+
+ I am, Sir, your very obedient servant,
+ William H. SEWARD.
+
+ _____
+
+_Cornelius Vanderbilt to the Secretary of State._
+
+ To the Honorable
+ William H. SEWARD, New York, May 3rd, 1866.
+ Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: Your communication of the 17th of April ult., informing me
+ that the Congress of the United States had, by their resolution
+ of the 28th of January, 1864, tendered to me their thanks for the
+ gift of the steamer "Vanderbilt," and requested the President to
+ cause a gold medal to be struck and forwarded to me in
+ commemoration of the gift, has been placed in my hands.
+
+ I have also received the medal, together with an attested copy of
+ the resolution in compliance with which you have caused it to be
+ transmitted.
+
+ You have been pleased to express the hope that the medal would be
+ acceptable to me, with your congratulations for the consciousness
+ which you consider I cannot fail to cherish of having, by the act
+ which its presentation commemorates, rendered a service to my
+ country at a critical period in its history.
+
+ Permit me, Sir, to return my acknowledgment for this (p. 409)
+ national recognition of the act referred to, and to express the
+ satisfaction with which I have received this generous token of
+ remembrance. It may not be inappropriate for me to refer to the
+ transaction which gave rise to the resolve of Congress which your
+ Department has now so gracefully executed.
+
+ About the year 1856, I formed the design and commenced the work
+ of a steamship for the purpose of demonstrating that individual
+ enterprise could, without the aid of governmental encouragement,
+ place upon the ocean steamships equal at least in magnitude,
+ power and speed, to any which had been constructed under
+ governmental patronage and protection in any part of the world.
+ An expenditure of about one million of dollars produced the
+ steamship "Vanderbilt," which carried the flag of our country
+ across the sea in a lesser space of time than any national banner
+ had been hitherto borne.
+
+ On the 16th of March, 1862, I received at my residence in this
+ city a letter from the War Department enquiring if I would
+ undertake to prevent the Confederate steamer "Merrimac" from
+ coming out of the harbor of Norfolk, and urging my immediate
+ attention, as the danger was most imminent and "there was no time
+ to be lost." I answered by telegraph that I would go to
+ Washington the next day. On the morning of the 17th of March I
+ called at the War Department, where I saw for the first time Mr.
+ Stanton, the Secretary of War. He requested me to accompany him
+ to the executive mansion, where I was introduced to Mr. Lincoln,
+ to whom I was then personally a stranger. The President asked me
+ if I thought I could, with the aid of my steamships, do anything
+ to prevent the "Merrimac" from getting out of Hampton Roads. I
+ replied to him that it was my opinion that if the steamship
+ "Vanderbilt" was there properly manned, the "Merrimac" would not
+ venture to come out, or if she did, the chances were ten to one
+ that the "Vanderbilt" would sink and destroy her. Mr. Lincoln
+ asked me to name the sum of money for which I would undertake the
+ service; I replied to him that nothing would induce me to become
+ a speculator upon the necessities of the government, and that I
+ would not mention a sum as the value of her charter, but that I
+ would make a gift of her to the government for the service
+ proposed. The President replied, "I accept her." I left him
+ promising that the "Vanderbilt" should be at Fortress Monroe
+ properly equipped and officered under my direction within three
+ or four days at the farthest, and she was there within the time.
+ The requisite instrument of transfer was subsequently executed by
+ me and transmitted to the War Department.
+
+ The resolution of Congress of which you have informed me truly
+ states that I have in no manner sought requital for the gift, and
+ the recognition of it, which in the discharge of your official
+ duty you have given me, was altogether unsolicited. I shall
+ proudly preserve the splendid token of appreciation which you
+ have transmitted to me, and it is my hope that those who come
+ after me, as they read the inscriptions of the medal and are
+ reminded of the event in their father's life which caused it to
+ be struck, will inflexibly resolve that should our Government be
+ again imperilled, no pecuniary sacrifice is too large to make in
+ its behalf, and no inducement sufficiently great to attempt to
+ profit by its necessities.
+
+ I am, Sir, your very obedient servant,
+ C. VANDERBILT.
+
+
+
+No. 75. (p. 410)
+PLATE LXXV.
+
+
+_April 16, 1865--March 4, 1869._
+
+ Andrew Johnson, President of the United States 1865. [Rx]. Peace.
+
+PRESIDENT ANDREW JOHNSON.
+
+[_Seventeenth President of the United States of America._]
+
+ANDREW JOHNSON, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES 1865. Undraped bust of
+President Johnson, facing the right PAQUET, F. (_fecit_).
+
+America is giving her hand to an Indian chief, before a mausoleum,
+upon which, in a crown of laurel, is the word PEACE. The mausoleum is
+surmounted by a small undraped bust of Washington, facing the right;
+to the left, at the feet of the Indian, are the attributes of savage
+life, and behind him a buffalo hunt; to the right, at the feet of
+America, are the emblems of civilization, and behind her a railway
+train. PAQUET. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+ANDREW JOHNSON was born in Raleigh, North Carolina, December 29,
+1808. He settled in Greenville, Tennessee, 1826; was a member of the
+State Legislature, 1835 and 1839; State senator, 1841; member of
+Congress, 1843-1853; governor of Tennessee, 1853-1857; and United
+States senator, 1857-1863. He remained true to the Union when his
+State seceded, and was appointed military-governor of Tennessee, 1864;
+became vice-president of the United States, March 4, 1865; President,
+after the assassination of President Lincoln, April 16, 1865-1869. He
+was an unsuccessful candidate for the Senate of the United States in
+1870, and for Congress in 1871; but was elected to the Senate in 1875.
+He died July 31, 1875, near Elizabethtown, Carter County, Tennessee.
+
+
+
+No. 76. (p. 411)
+PLATE LXXVI.
+
+
+_December, 1853._
+
+ By Joint resolution of Congress to the rescuers of the passengers
+ officers and men of steamship San Francisco, etc. [Rx]. July 26
+ 1866.
+
+WRECK OF THE STEAMSHIP SAN FRANCISCO.
+
+[_Testimonial of National Gratitude._]
+
+BY JOINT RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS TO THE RESCUERS OF THE PASSENGERS
+OFFICERS AND MEN OF STEAMSHIP SAN FRANCISCO WRECKED DEC. (_December_)
+1853. TESTIMONIAL OF NATIONAL GRATITUDE FOR HIS GALLANT CONDUCT.
+America, personified as a female, seated, and with the eagle, fasces,
+and shield at her left, crowns with a wreath of laurel a sailor, who
+is kneeling before her; to the right, the United States capitol; to
+the left, a ship at anchor. PAQUET. F. (_fecit_).
+
+Thirty-nine stars; a man and a woman on a raft at sea; a ship coming
+to their rescue. On the raft, PAQUET. F. (_fecit_). Exergue: JULY 26
+1866--An anchor and a branch of laurel.[120]
+
+ [Footnote 120: See INTRODUCTION, page ix.]
+
+As this medal was not voted by Congress until 1866, it is placed here
+according to the chronological order adopted.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 412)
+
+_Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to Captains Creighton, Low, and
+Stouffer._
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: SECTION 1. That
+ the President of the United States be requested to procure three
+ valuable gold medals with suitable devices, one to be presented
+ to Captain Creighton, of the ship Three Bells, of Glasgow; one to
+ Captain Low, of the bark Kilby, of Boston; and one to Captain
+ Stouffer, of the ship Antar(c)tic, as testimonials of national
+ gratitude for their gallant conduct in rescuing about five
+ hundred Americans from the wreck of the steamship San Francisco;
+ and that the cost of the same be paid for out of any money in the
+ Treasury not otherwise appropriated.
+
+ SECTION 2. _And be it further resolved_, That the sum of seven
+ thousand five hundred dollars each is hereby appropriated, out of
+ any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, to the
+ above named captains respectively, as a reward of their humanity
+ and heroism in the rescue of the survivors of the said wreck, and
+ in case either of the said captains may have died, then the
+ amount hereby appropriated shall be paid to the widow of said
+ deceased captain respectively; if no widow surviving, then to the
+ respective child or children of such deceased captain; and in the
+ event of there being no child or children of said deceased
+ captain surviving, then the amount hereby appropriated shall be
+ paid first, to the father, or if the father be not living, then
+ to the mother of such deceased captain respectively.
+
+ SECTION 3. _And be it further resolved_, That there shall be paid
+ to each mate of the three above-named vessels the sum of five
+ hundred dollars, and to each man and boy the sum of one hundred
+ dollars, and in case of the death of the respective mate or
+ mates, or men or boys, that the said respective sums shall be
+ paid in the same way and under the same conditions as the payment
+ is to be made in case of the death of the respective captains.
+
+ Approved July 26th, 1866.
+
+ _____
+
+_Major Wyse to the Adjutant-General of the Army._
+
+ To Fort Wood
+ COLONEL S. COOPER, New York Harbor, January 14th, 1854.
+ Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Colonel: I have the honor to enclose the above[121] informal
+ report, for the information of the proper authorities, with the
+ following remark: We were wrecked about 7 A.M. of the 24th of
+ December, 1853 (Saturday), the sea sweeping overboard Brevet
+ Colonel Washington, Brevet Major Taylor, Brevet Captain Field,
+ Lieutenant Smith, and about 120 men. We were much disabled and
+ leaking a great deal, mostly under our guards, which were (p. 413)
+ all broken up. On the 28th of December, 1853, we put on
+ board the bark Kilby, bound for Boston, Colonel Gates, Major
+ Merchant, Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel Burke, Doctors Saterlee and
+ Wirtz, Captain Judd, Captain Gardner, Lieutenant Fremont,
+ Lieutenant Loeser and Lieutenant Van Voast, with all the ladies
+ and their children, and about fifty men. Lieutenants William A.
+ Winder, Charles Winder, J. G. Chandler and myself, with the rest
+ of the men remained on board the wreck.
+
+ I continued the disembarkation until about 8 P.M. the same day,
+ when the weather forced us to stop, and that night we parted with
+ the bark in a gale. On Friday night, the 30th of December, 1853,
+ we fell in with the English ship "Three Bells," Captain
+ Creighton, who after finding our condition stuck by us _most
+ nobly_, until the sea calmed sufficiently to take our men off,
+ which was on Tuesday morning the 3d of January, 1854. At this
+ time the ship "Antarctic" of Liverpool came to our relief and
+ also commenced taking off our men. We continued this
+ disembarkation throughout Tuesday and Wednesday, and on Wednesday
+ evening, about 6 P.M., having removed every man, woman and child
+ of my command, I embarked myself on board the "Three Bells." The
+ commander of the San Francisco, Captain Watkins, with his
+ officers and crew, remained on the wreck that night, and left the
+ next morning about 10 A.M., after which we parted with the
+ wreck, the ship "Antarctic" steaming for Liverpool, and our ship
+ the "Three Bells" for New York, where I have the happiness to
+ inform you we arrived last evening. Words cannot express the
+ gratitude we owe to Captain Creighton for laying by us so
+ faithfully during so many stormy days, his ship disabled in the
+ storm which wrecked us, and leaking at the rate of four inches
+ per hour, and to whom I trust our government may make some
+ suitable testimonial. Our own captain also behaved throughout the
+ whole trouble with the most untiring courage, energy and
+ perseverance. Both of our surgeons being on the bark Kilby, I
+ don't know what we should have done had it not been for the
+ accidental presence of Doctor Buell, a citizen physician, who
+ labored incessantly night and day to alleviate the sufferings of
+ our numerous sick, who were dying hourly with the cholera, and to
+ make things still worse the small pox made its appearance on
+ board. All our hospital stores were swept overboard the morning
+ of the wreck, with the exception of two or three boxes of brandy
+ and wine, and a little opium.
+
+ I feel that I would be doing injustice to Lieutenants Charles S.
+ Winder, James Van Voast, and J. G. Chandler, did I not recommend
+ them to the favorable notice of the President, for their untiring
+ and noble exertions, night and day for ten successive days, in
+ keeping the ship clear of water, and mingling among the sick and
+ desponding men, to minister to their wants and cheer them up with
+ hope. The other officer with me, Lieutenant Wm. A. Winder, was
+ sick nearly all the time and that prevented him from rendering
+ the services which otherwise he would have done. I am also happy
+ to say that under the most trying circumstances, my
+ non-commissioned officers and men behaved well.
+
+ I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ F. O. WYSE,
+ _Captain and Brevet Major 3d Artillery_, _commanding_.
+
+ [Footnote 121: See ENCLOSURE, page 414.]
+
+
+[_Enclosure._] (p. 414)
+
+CONSOLIDATED MORNING REPORT OF COMPANIES A, B, D, G, H, I, K AND L, OF
+THE 3D ARTILLERY.
+
+Stationed at Fort Wood, New York Harbor, January 14, 1854.
+
+ ======================================================================
+ Number of ||Letters
+ Companies. || of Companies.
+ || |
+ || |Present
+ || |for Duty.
+ || | |
+ || | |Present Sick.
+ || | | |
+ || | | |Absent.
+ || | | | |
+ || | | | |Absent Sick.
+ || | | | | |
+ || | | | | |Dead.
+ || | | | | | |
+ || | | | | | |Total Present.
+ || | | | | | | |
+ || | | | | | | |Total Present
+ || | | | | | | |Absent, and
+ || | | | | | | |Dead.
+ || | | | | | | | |
+ || | | | | | | | |Commissioned
+ || | | | | | | | |Officers
+ || | | | | | | | |Present.
+ || | | | | | | | | ||Aggregate.
+ || | | | | | | | | || ||
+ -----------||----------------------------------------||----||
+ Field and || | | | 1 | | | | | || ||
+ Staff || | | | | | | | | || ||
+ Regimental || | 7 | 1 | 7 | | 7 | 8 | 22 | || 22 ||
+ Band || | | | | | | | | || ||
+ 1 || A | 17 | 1 | 24 | 4 | 8 | 18 | 54 | || 54 ||
+ 2 || B | 12 | 2 | 20 | 3 | 31 | 14 | 68 | || 68 ||
+ 3 || D | 21 | 4 | 21 | 3 | 7 | 25 | 56 | 1 || 57 ||
+ 4 || G | 14 | | 23 | 3 | 15 | 14 | 55 | 1 || 56 ||
+ 5 || H | 11 | 1 | 25 | 1 | 13 | 12 | 51 | || 51 ||
+ 6 || I | 10 | 1 | 31 | 2 | 2 | 11 | 46 | || 46 ||
+ 7 || K | 12 | 1 | 6 | 2 | 36 | 13 | 57 | || 57 ||
+ 8 || L | 16 | 1 | 16 | | 41 | 17 | 74 | || 74 ||
+ -----------------------------------------------------||----||
+ Total || |120 |12 |174 |18 |160 |132 |483 | 2 ||485 ||
+ =============================================================
+
+ Number of Companies. REMARKS.
+
+ Field and Staff: Lieutenant C. Winder and Sergeant Major Gorham
+ embarked for Liverpool.
+
+ Regimental Band: 7 embarked for Liverpool.
+
+ 1: 2 embarked on board the bark Kilby for Boston,
+ and 26 for Liverpool.
+
+ 2: 23 embarked for Liverpool.
+
+ 3: 9 embarked for Boston, and 15 for Liverpool.
+
+ 4: 2 privates embarked on board the bark Kilby
+ for Boston, and 21 for Liverpool.
+
+ 5: 24 embarked for Liverpool, and 2 for Boston.
+
+ 6: 29 embarked for Boston, and 4 for Liverpool.
+
+ 7: 1 private embarked on board the bark Kilby
+ for Boston, and 7 for Liverpool.
+
+ 8: 16 embarked for Liverpool.
+
+ _____
+
+_Colonel Gates to the Adjutant-General of the Army._ (p. 415)
+
+ To Headquarters, 30 Artillery,
+ COLONEL S. COOPER, New York City, Jan. 16, 1854.
+ Adjutant-General, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Colonel: I have the honor to report my arrival in this city, with
+ a remnant of my regiment.
+
+ As you are already aware I embarked on the 22d of December last,
+ with eight companies of my regiment, on the steamship San
+ Francisco for California. On the 24th December, when about three
+ hundred miles from New York, the engine of the ship gave way, and
+ in a few hours a heavy sea boarded her, carrying away the entire
+ upper cabin, and with it four officers and about two hundred
+ enlisted men, the wife of Major Taylor, my eldest son, and a
+ number of citizen passengers.
+
+ Every exertion was now made by both officers and men to assist
+ the crew in keeping the ship afloat; by clearing her of water and
+ throwing overboard freight.
+
+ A constant succession of gales continued for four days, rendering
+ it almost certain (to human foresight) that she must go down. But
+ by the merciful goodness of God we were preserved, and I am happy
+ to inform you that all the survivors have been taken from the
+ wreck and are now in this harbor, and on the ship "Antarctic" for
+ Liverpool, except eighteen men that volunteered to remain, and
+ help work the old bark Kilby into port.
+
+ On the 27th of December the bark Kilby of Boston hove in sight,
+ and her noble commander, Captain Low, said he would lay by us
+ until the sea would permit him to remove us on board his vessel.
+ On the 28th, the sea having in a measure become quiet, he came
+ alongside, sent his boats and removed all the ladies, children,
+ passengers (citizens), a number of officers, and about fifty
+ soldiers, when suddenly a squall of wind separated the two
+ vessels, parting the hawser by which they were attached, and
+ continued to blow all night a violent gale. This squall came on
+ so suddenly that my quarter-master and acting adjutant, 1st
+ Lieutenant Fremont, who came on board the bark for a few hours to
+ urge the sailors on to renewed exertions, and offer them large
+ inducements to work the boats all night, was left on the bark
+ unable to get back.
+
+ Brevet Major Wyse, the senior officer, undisabled, was, by my
+ orders, detailed to superintend the transfer of troops, and was
+ thus left in command of those remaining on the wreck. For two
+ days and nights the gale continued, and though we tried
+ constantly to regain the wreck, it was found impossible to do so,
+ with the old bark in her crippled condition, and as we were put
+ on an allowance of bread and water, it was finally resolved to
+ make if possible an American port.
+
+ We drifted before the wind for fifteen days, and were at last,
+ after living on parched corn five days, taken off by the packet
+ ship Lucy Thompson, of this port, Captain Pendleton, a noble
+ hearted sailor.
+
+ I cannot close this brief report without expressing my high
+ admiration of the noble conduct of every undisabled officer, and
+ most of the men. Brevet Major Wyse, Captain Judd, my only staff
+ officer (quartermaster and acting adjutant), 1st Lieutenant
+ Fremont, who, in addition to his own duties, served at the (p. 416)
+ pumps, 1st Lieutenant Loeser, acting Commissary, 1st
+ Lieutenant W. A. Winder, 2d Lieutenants C. S. Winder, Van Voast,
+ and Chandler.
+
+ These officers, some of them though slightly disabled, never
+ faltered in their duty, working day and night at the pumps and
+ elsewhere, and I would specially notice the three 2d lieutenants
+ who, being unencumbered with the cares of family, labored
+ unremittingly, and deserve the highest praise.
+
+ My regiment is broken up and disorganized, and it will be many
+ months before it can take the field successfully. We were all
+ anxious to reach California; our "all" was embarked in the
+ expedition, and by the providence of God it has been swept away,
+ and we are now penniless and destitute. We claim that our tour of
+ duty in California has been performed, by every military
+ principle, we have suffered more in the last three weeks than we
+ could, ordinarily, during a five-year tour in California. "We
+ have marched off parade," sought our destination, and been
+ crushed, cruelly crushed, and we now ask that due consideration
+ be shown us.
+
+ I further request that the officers of companies "B" and "L" now
+ under orders for California be directed to report to me in this
+ city for duty, with the remnants of those companies.
+
+ The officers lost are Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel Washington,
+ Brevet Major George Taylor, Brevet Captain H. B. Field, and 1st
+ Lieutenant R. H. Smith.
+
+ As soon as possible a detailed report with a return of the
+ survivors will be made to you.
+
+ The troops taken off by the "Kilby" and "Three Bells" are at
+ Bedloe's Island.
+
+ I am, Colonel, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ William GATES,
+ _Colonel commanding_.
+
+ _____
+
+ ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+ _Acts of Congress Voting Eight Months' Pay to Lieutenant Francis
+ Key Murray and others._
+
+ _Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States in Congress assembled_: That there shall be paid,
+ under the direction of the President, to each of the officers,
+ non-commissioned officers, musicians and privates, who, on the
+ twenty-first day of December, eighteen hundred and fifty-three,
+ embarked at New York, under orders to California, on the steamship
+ San Francisco, and who was on board the vessel on the occasion of
+ her recent disaster at sea, and to Lieutenant Francis Key Murray,
+ and any other officer or seaman of the United States Navy, who was
+ on board the said steamship, under orders, a sum equal in amount
+ to his pay and allowance for eight months.
+
+ SECTION 2. _And be it further enacted_, That if any such (p. 417)
+ officer, non-commissioned officer, musician or private, shall have
+ died before receiving such payment, from any cause consequent upon
+ said disaster, his widow, if one survive him, and if not, then his
+ minor children, if any there be, shall be paid a sum equal in
+ amount to six months' pay, and allowances of the deceased; and
+ that the widows and minor children of those officers,
+ non-commissioned officers and privates, who perished by this
+ disaster, or who died from disease in consequence thereof, shall
+ be allowed pensions in the same manner in all respects as if the
+ said officers, non-commissioned officers, and privates had been
+ killed in battle.
+
+ Approved March 27th, 1854.
+
+ SECTION 3. _And be it further enacted_,
+ That the amount which it may be found necessary to pay under the
+ act of twenty-seventh March, eighteen hundred and fifty-four, to
+ the widows and orphans of United States troops, who perished by
+ the recent disaster to the steamship San Francisco, be paid out of
+ any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated.
+
+ Approved August 5th, 1854.
+
+
+
+No. 77. (p. 418)
+PLATE LXXVII.
+
+
+_1866._
+
+ Honor and fame are the reward. [Rx]. By resolution of the
+ Congress of the United States. March 2, 1867. to Cyrus W. Field,
+ of New York, etc.
+
+CYRUS WEST FIELD.
+
+[_Laying of the Atlantic Telegraph Cable._]
+
+Within a circle formed by a telegraphic cable: HONOR AND FAME ARE THE
+REWARD. On clouds in the midst of sunbeams the undraped bust of Cyrus
+West Field, facing the left. A hand from above places a crown on his
+head; below is the Atlantic Ocean; two ships going in opposite
+directions are paying out the cable; to the left, the western
+hemisphere, AMERICA; to the right, the eastern hemisphere, EUROPE;
+beneath, in a band formed by the Atlantic cable and a chain uniting
+the two worlds, INDOMITABLE PERSEVERANCE AND ENDURING FAITH ACHIEVED
+THE SUCCESS, J. G. BRUFF D. (_delineavit._) BARBER F. (_fecit_).
+
+Within an endless chain: BY RESOLUTION OF THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED
+STATES. MARCH 2, 1867. TO CYRUS W. (_West_) FIELD, OF NEW YORK FOR HIS
+FORESIGHT, FAITH, AND PERSISTENCY, IN ESTABLISHING TELEGRAPHIC
+COMMUNICATION, BY MEANS OF THE ATLANTIC TELEGRAPH, CONNECTING THE OLD
+WITH THE NEW WORLD. To the left, the American shield; to the right, a
+star formed of thirty-one smaller stars; below, the terrestrial globe,
+showing AMERICA and EUROPE, surrounded with electric sparks,
+surmounted by a torch and a caduceus crossed, and resting on branches
+of laurel and of oak.
+
+
+J. GOLDSBOROUGH BRUFF was in 1872 one of the designing artists (p. 419)
+attached to the Treasury Department in Washington. He designed
+the face of this medal.
+
+
+WILLIAM BARBER, at present engraver to the United States Mint in
+Philadelphia, was born in London, England. The principal medals
+engraved by him are those of Cyrus W. Field, Elliot, Rittenhouse,
+James Pollock, Joseph Pancoast, and Dr. Linderman.
+
+
+CYRUS WEST FIELD was born in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, November 30,
+1819. He went to New York city at the age of fifteen, and entered a
+commercial house. He was one of the first promoters of an Atlantic
+telegraph, and founded the New York, Newfoundland, and London
+Telegraph Company in 1854; organized the Atlantic Telegraph Company in
+1856; and took a leading part in the various attempts to lay a
+transatlantic cable. He received a vote of thanks and a gold medal
+from Congress for the final success of this great undertaking. He is
+still living.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to Cyrus W. Field._
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the thanks
+ of Congress be, and they hereby are, presented to Cyrus W. Field
+ of New York, for his foresight, courage and determination in
+ establishing telegraphic communication by means of the Atlantic
+ cable, traversing mid-ocean and connecting the Old World with the
+ New; and that the President of the United States be requested to
+ cause a gold medal to be struck, with suitable emblems, devices,
+ and inscription, to be presented to Mr. Field.
+
+ _And be it further resolved_, That when the medal shall have been
+ struck, the President shall cause a copy of this joint resolution
+ to be engrossed on parchment, and shall transmit the same,
+ together with the medal, to Mr. Field to be presented to him in
+ the name of the people of the United States of America.
+
+ _And further_, That a sufficient sum of money to carry this
+ resolution into effect is hereby appropriated out of any money in
+ the Treasury not otherwise appropriated.
+
+ Approved March 2, 1867.
+
+ _____
+
+_The Secretary of State to Cyrus W. Field._ (p. 420)
+
+ To Department of State,
+ Cyrus W. FIELD, Esq., Washington, January 7, 1869.
+ New York.
+
+ Sir: Pursuant to the resolution of Congress of March 2, 1867, the
+ President has caused to be prepared, for presentation to you, in
+ the name of the people of the United States, a gold medal, with
+ suitable devices and inscriptions, in acknowledgment of your
+ eminent services in the establishment of telegraphic
+ communication, by means of the Atlantic cable, between the Old
+ World and the New.
+
+ This testimonial, together with an engrossed copy of the
+ resolution referred to, is herewith transmitted to you by
+ direction of the President.
+
+ I am, Sir, your obedient servant,
+ William H. SEWARD.
+
+
+
+No. 78. (p. 421)
+PLATE LXXVIII.
+
+
+_February 7, 1867._
+
+ [Rx]. The people of the United States to George Peabody, etc.
+
+GEORGE PEABODY.
+
+[_Promotion of Universal Education._]
+
+Bust of George Peabody, facing the left.
+
+THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES TO GEORGE PEABODY IN ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF
+HIS BENEFICENT PROMOTION OF UNIVERSAL EDUCATION.[122]
+
+ [Footnote 122: See INTRODUCTION, page viii.]
+
+This is not, properly speaking, a medal, but rather a medallion
+forming the center of a piece of gold plate, the work of Messrs. Starr
+and Marcus, goldsmiths, of New York. A female figure, representing
+Benevolence, leans over the medallion on the right, holding in her
+right hand a branch of laurel, while with her left she points to the
+bust of George Peabody. On the opposite side, under a palmetto tree,
+are two children, the one white, the other a negro, typical of
+education in the Southern States. The group is placed upon a pedestal
+of solid gold, in the center of which are the arms of the United
+States of America in enamel, resting upon two branches, one of oak,
+the other of laurel. To the right, BENEVOLENCE; to the left,
+EDUCATION. On the reverse of the pedestal, beneath the medallion, are
+a globe, books, a map of the United States, a square, a compass, etc.,
+emblems of Art, Science, and Education. This piece of plate is eight
+inches high, six inches wide, and its depth is an inch and a half.
+The allegorical figures are modeled and finely chased, and the (p. 422)
+portrait in the medallion is in alto relievo.
+
+
+GEORGE PEABODY was born in Danvers, Massachusetts, February 18, 1795.
+In 1806 he began life as an apprentice to a grocer. He afterward
+entered into partnership with Mr. Elisha Riggs, in Baltimore, and when
+the latter retired from business, in 1830, he became the head of the
+house; in 1843 he settled in London as a banker. In 1852 he gave
+$200,000 for the foundation of a free library and educational
+institute in Danvers; and in 1857 he founded in Baltimore the Peabody
+Institute, to which he gave $1,000,000. He also contributed, at
+various times, $2,500,000, for the amelioration of the condition of
+the London poor. The freedom of the city of London was presented to
+him, and Queen Victoria offered him a baronetcy or the grand cross of
+the Order of the Bath, both of which honors he respectfully declined.
+Her Majesty then wrote him a private letter of thanks, and sent him,
+in March, 1866, a beautiful miniature portrait of herself. During a
+visit to America, in 1867, he made a gift of $2,000,000 to promote
+education in the Southern States, for which Congress gave him a vote
+of thanks and a gold medal; and on April 13, 1868, Massachusetts
+passed an act changing the name of his native town, Danvers, to
+Peabody. He returned to England, and died in London, November 4, 1869.
+A funeral service was performed over his body in Westminster Abbey,
+November 12; and in December it was, by order of Her Majesty, the
+Queen of Great Britain, taken on board the iron-clad turret
+ship-of-war Monarch, Captain Comerell, C. B., V. C. (_Knight Companion
+of the Bath_,[123] _Victoria Cross_), and conveyed to America under
+escort, by order of President Grant, of the United States screw
+sloop-of-war Plymouth, Commander Macomb. It was landed in Portland,
+Maine, January 26, 1870, and was deposited, February 8, 1870, in the
+memorial church erected to his mother at Peabody, amid an immense
+concourse of people, among whom were Prince Arthur of England, the
+governors of Maine and Massachusetts, and numerous deputations. The
+bronze statue of Mr. Peabody, by Story, erected by the citizens of
+London behind the Royal Exchange, was unveiled in presence of the
+Prince of Wales, July 23, 1869.
+
+ [Footnote 123: The Most Honorable Military Order of
+ the Bath is composed of three classes:
+
+ THE FIRST CLASS: (G. C. B.), to consist of not more
+ than seventy-two KNIGHTS GRAND CROSSES, exclusive
+ of the Sovereign and Princes of the Blood.
+
+ THE SECOND CLASS: (K. C. B) KNIGHTS COMMANDERS.
+
+ THE THIRD CLASS: (C. B.) COMPANIONS OF THE BATH.]
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 423)
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to George Peabody._
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the thanks
+ of Congress be, and they hereby are, presented to George Peabody
+ of Massachusetts, for his great and peculiar beneficence in
+ giving a large sum of money, amounting to two million dollars,
+ for the promotion of education in the more destitute portions of
+ the Southern and Southwestern States, the benefits of which,
+ according to his direction, are to be distributed among the
+ entire population without any distinction, except what may be
+ found in needs or opportunities of usefulness.
+
+ _And be it further resolved_, That it shall be the duty of the
+ President to cause a gold medal to be struck, with suitable
+ devices and inscriptions, which, together with a copy of these
+ resolutions, shall be presented to Mr. Peabody in the name of the
+ people of the United States.
+
+ _And further_, That a sufficient amount of money to carry this
+ resolution into effect is hereby appropriated out of any money in
+ the Treasury not otherwise appropriated.
+
+ Approved March 16, 1867.
+
+ _____
+
+_George Peabody's Gift for Southern Education._
+
+ Washington, February 7, 1867.
+
+ To Hon. Robert C. WINTHROP, of Massachusetts;
+ Hon. Hamilton FISH, of New York;
+ Right Rev. Charles P. MCILVAINE, of Ohio;
+ GENERAL U. S. GRANT, of the United States Army;
+ Hon. William C. RIVES, of Virginia;
+ Hon. John H. CLIFFORD, of Massachusetts;
+ Hon. William AIKEN, of South Carolina;
+ William M. EVARTS, Esq., of New York;
+ Hon. William A. GRAHAM, of North Carolina;
+ Charles MACALESTER, of Pennsylvania;
+ George W. RIGGS, Esq., of Washington;
+ Samuel WETMORE, Esq., of New York;
+ Edward A. BRADFORD, Esq., of Louisiana;
+ George N. EATON, Esq., of Maryland;
+ and George PEABODY RUSSELL, Esq., of Massachusetts.
+
+ Gentlemen: I beg to address you on a subject which occupied my
+ mind long before I left England, and in regard to which one, at
+ least, of you (the Hon. Mr. Winthrop, the distinguished and
+ valued friend to whom I am so much indebted for cordial sympathy,
+ careful consideration, and wise counsel in this matter,) will
+ remember that I consulted him immediately upon my arrival in May
+ last.
+
+ I refer to the educational needs of those portions of our beloved
+ and common country which have suffered from the destructive
+ ravages, and the not less disastrous consequences of civil war.
+
+ With my advancing years my attachment to my native land has but
+ become more devoted. My hope and faith in its successful and
+ glorious future have grown brighter and stronger, and now, (p. 424)
+ looking forward beyond my stay on earth, as may be permitted
+ to one who has passed the limit of three score and ten years, I
+ see our country united and prosperous, emerging from the clouds
+ which still surround her, taking a higher rank among the nations,
+ and becoming richer and more powerful than ever before.
+
+ But to make her prosperity more than superficial, her moral and
+ intellectual development should keep pace with her material
+ growth, and in those portions of our nation to which I have
+ referred, the urgent and pressing physical needs of an almost
+ impoverished people must for some years preclude them from
+ making, by unaided effort, such advances in education, and such
+ progress in the diffusion of knowledge among all classes, as
+ every lover of his country must earnestly desire.
+
+ I feel most deeply, therefore, that it is the duty and privilege
+ of the more favored and wealthy portions of our nation to assist
+ those who are less fortunate, and, with the wish to discharge so
+ far as I may be able my own responsibility in this matter, as
+ well as to gratify my desire to aid those to whom I am bound by
+ so many ties of attachment and regard, I give to you, gentlemen,
+ most of whom have been my personal and especial friends, the sum
+ of one million of dollars, to be by you and your successors held
+ in trust, and the income thereof used and applied in your
+ discretion for the promotion and encouragement of intellectual,
+ moral, or industrial education among the young of the more
+ destitute portions of the Southern and Southwestern States of our
+ Union; my purpose being that the benefits intended shall be
+ distributed among the entire population, without other
+ distinction than their needs and the opportunities of usefulness
+ to them.
+
+ Besides the income thus derived, I give to you permission to use
+ from the principal sum, within the next two years, an amount not
+ exceeding forty per cent.
+
+ In addition to this gift I place in your hands bonds of the State
+ of Mississippi, issued to the Planter's Bank, and commonly known
+ as Planter's Bank bonds, amounting, with interest, to about
+ eleven hundred thousand dollars, the amount realized by you from
+ which is to be added to and used for the purposes of this trust.
+
+ These bonds were originally issued in payment for stock in that
+ bank held by the State, and amounted in all to only two millions
+ of dollars. For many years the State received large dividends
+ from that bank over and above the interest on these bonds. The
+ State paid the interest without interruption till 1840, since
+ which no interest has been paid, except a payment of about one
+ hundred thousand dollars, which was found in the treasury
+ applicable to the payment of the coupons, and paid by a mandamus
+ of the Supreme Court. The validity of these bonds has never been
+ questioned, and they must not be confounded with another issue of
+ bonds made by the State to the Union Bank, the recognition of
+ which has been a subject of controversy with a portion of the
+ population of Mississippi.
+
+ Various acts of the Legislature, viz.: of February 28, 1842;
+ February 23, 1844; February 16, 1846; February 28, 1846; March 4,
+ 1848, and the highest judicial tribunal of the State have
+ confirmed their validity, and I have no doubt that at an early
+ date such legislation will be had as to make these bonds
+ available in increasing the usefulness of the present trust.
+
+ Mississippi, though now depressed, is rich in agricultural (p. 425)
+ resources, and cannot long disregard the moral obligation
+ resting upon her to make provision for their payment. In
+ confirmation of what I have said in regard to the legislative
+ and judicial action concerning the State bonds issued to the
+ Planter's Bank, I herewith place in your hands the documents
+ marked A.
+
+ The details and organization of the trust I leave with you, only
+ requesting that Mr. Winthrop may be Chairman, and Governor Fish
+ and Bishop McIlvaine Vice-Chairmen of your body; and I give to
+ you power to make all necessary by-laws and regulations, to
+ obtain an act of incorporation, if any shall be found expedient,
+ to provide for the expenses of the trustees and of any agents
+ appointed by them; and generally, to do all such acts as may be
+ necessary for carrying out the provisions of this trust.
+
+ All vacancies occurring in your number by death, resignation, or
+ otherwise, shall be filled by your election, as soon as
+ conveniently may be, and having in view an equality of
+ representation so far as regards the Northern and Southern
+ States.
+
+ I furthermore give to you the power, in case two-thirds of the
+ trustees shall at any time, after the lapse of 30 years, deem it
+ expedient, to close this trust, and of the funds which at that
+ time shall be in the hands of yourselves and your successors, to
+ distribute not less than two-thirds among such educational or
+ literary institutions, or for such educational purposes as they
+ may determine, in the States for whose benefit the income is now
+ appointed to be used. The remainder may be distributed by the
+ trustees for educational or literary purposes wherever they may
+ deem it expedient.
+
+ In making this gift I am aware that the fund derived from it can
+ but aid the States which I wish to benefit in their own exertions
+ to diffuse the blessings of education and morality. But if this
+ endowment shall encourage those now anxious for the light of
+ knowledge, and stimulate to new efforts the many good and noble
+ men who cherish the high purpose of placing our great country
+ foremost, not only in power, but in the intelligence and virtue
+ of her citizens, it will have accomplished all that I can hope.
+
+ With reverent recognition of the need of the blessing of Almighty
+ God upon this gift, and with the fervent prayer that, under His
+ guidance, your counsels may be directed for the highest good of
+ present and future generations in our beloved country,
+
+ I am, gentlemen, with great respect, your humble servant,
+ George PEABODY.
+
+ _____
+
+_Action of the Trustees of the Peabody Gift._
+
+ On receipt of the foregoing letter by the Hon. Robert C.
+ Winthrop, the Trustees present in Washington were called upon by
+ him to meet on February 8th, and the letter having been laid
+ before them, the following resolutions, moved by Bishop McIlvaine
+ and seconded by Gov. Aiken, were unanimously adopted:
+
+ _Whereas_: Our countryman and friend George Peabody has, in a
+ letter just communicated to the undersigned, made known his
+ determination, out of a grateful sense of the manifold (p. 426)
+ goodness with which God has prospered his life, and of an earnest
+ desire to promote the best interests of his fellow-citizens, to
+ devote a munificent donation of property for certain most wise
+ and beneficent uses indicated in said letter, and has requested
+ us to take in trust the charge and management of the same,
+ therefore,
+
+ _Resolved_, That the undersigned, being the Trustees assembled in
+ Washington, deeply sensible of the honor conferred on them by a
+ trust of such eminent importance and responsibility, and
+ realizing their dependence upon the guidance and blessing of God
+ to be enabled to discharge its duties with such wisdom and
+ faithfulness as may best secure the benevolent designs of the
+ giver, do hereby accept the office of Trustees of the same, and
+ promise our best exertions in its behalf.
+
+ _Resolved_, That we hereby express to Mr. Peabody our grateful
+ appreciation of the enlarged and unprecedented generosity which,
+ after having bestowed upon the poor of the city of London a
+ bounty that drew forth the admiration of Europe, and after having
+ exceeded the same in his recent return to his native land, in
+ benefactions to institutions of learning and education in the
+ Middle and Eastern States of the Union, has now crowned the whole
+ with this last deed of patriotism and loving kindness, so
+ eminently calculated to bind together the several parts of our
+ beloved country in the bonds of mutual well-doing and regard.
+
+ _Resolved_, That we express to Mr. Peabody our respectful and
+ affectionate prayer that, in the gracious providence of our
+ Heavenly Father, his valuable life may be long spared to witness
+ the success of his benevolent contributions to the happiness of
+ his fellow-citizens in all parts of his native and beloved land,
+ and that many of those whom God has blessed with large
+ possessions may be induced to follow his example of wise and
+ noble employment of wealth for the good of man and the glory of
+ God.
+
+ Robert C. WINTHROP, C. MACALESTER,
+ Charles P. MCILVAINE, George W. RIGGS,
+ U. S. GRANT, Gen. U. S. A. Samuel WETMORE,
+ William AIKEN, George N. EATON,
+ William M. EVARTS, Geo. PEABODY RUSSELL.
+
+ _____
+
+_The Secretary of State to George Peabody._
+
+ To Department of State,
+ Mr. George PEABODY, London. Washington, June 23, 1868.
+
+ Sir: I have the pleasure to inform you that, pursuant to the
+ resolution of Congress of March 16, 1867, the President has
+ caused to be prepared for presentation to you, in the name of the
+ people of the United States, a gold medal, with suitable devices
+ and inscriptions, in acknowledgment of your munificent donation
+ for the promotion of education in the more destitute portions of
+ the Southern and Southwestern States. This testimonial, (p. 427)
+ together with an engrossed copy of the resolution referred to,
+ will remain in the hands of this department until you shall have
+ communicated to it your wishes with regard to their further
+ disposition.
+
+ I have the honor to be, Sir, your obedient servant,
+ William H. SEWARD.
+
+ _____
+
+_George Peabody to the Secretary of State._
+
+ To the Honorable
+ William H. SEWARD, London, Sept 18, 1868.
+ Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
+ communication, dated the 23d of June, informing me of the
+ completion of the gold medal prepared pursuant to an act of
+ Congress of March 16, 1867, to be presented to me in the name of
+ the people of the United States, and asking what may be my wishes
+ in regard to its further disposition.
+
+ I have heretofore delayed responding to your polite letter from
+ indecision on my part respecting the place to which I should wish
+ to have the esteemed token transmitted, whether to me here, in
+ London, or to the institution bearing my name in South Danvers,
+ which I intend shall be its final resting place; but knowing the
+ uncertainty of life, particularly at my advanced age, and feeling
+ a great desire of seeing this most valued token my countrymen
+ have been pleased to bestow upon me, I beg leave to submit, if
+ compatible with the rules of your department, that the medal with
+ the accompanying documents may be sent to me here, through our
+ legation, when I will endeavor to express myself more fully how
+ highly I esteem the distinguished honor.
+
+ I am, with great respect, your humble servant,
+ George PEABODY.
+
+ _____
+
+_The Secretary of State to George Peabody._
+
+ To Department of State,
+ Mr. George PEABODY, London. Washington, October 7, 1868.
+
+ Sir: Your letter of the 18th of September has been received. In
+ compliance with the suggestion therein contained the
+ congressional medal is herewith transmitted to Mr. B. F. Stevens,
+ the United States despatch agent at London, with instructions to
+ place the honorable testimonial directly into your own hands. It
+ is hoped that it may receive no injury by the way, and that you
+ may deem it, in design and execution, a not unworthy token of
+ your countrymen's appreciation of your beneficence in the cause
+ of universal education.
+
+ I am, Sir, your obedient servant,
+ William H. SEWARD.
+
+ _____
+
+_George Peabody to the Secretary of State._ (p. 428)
+
+ To the Honorable 64 Queen Street, Cheapside,
+ William H. SEWARD, London, E. C., January 6, 1869.
+ Secretary of State, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt, through the
+ United States despatch agent at London, of the case alluded to in
+ your letter of the 7th of October, containing the gold medal,
+ which, pursuant to the resolution of Congress, the President has
+ caused to be prepared for me, together with an engrossed copy of
+ the resolution referred to.
+
+ The package arrived in England in November, but owing to my
+ absence from London it was not till the evening of Christmas day
+ that I was enabled to examine its contents in the presence of a
+ circle of my intimate friends.
+
+ Of the unsurpassed beauty of the medal, and the excellence of its
+ delicate workmanship, there is but one opinion, and I heartily
+ concur with all who have seen it in appreciating the elegance of
+ its design and the masterly skill of its execution.
+
+ Cherishing as I do the warmest affection for my country, it is
+ not possible for me to feel more grateful than I do for this
+ precious memorial of its regard, coming as it does from thirty
+ millions of American citizens, through their representatives in
+ Congress, with the full accord and co-operation of the President.
+
+ This medal, together with the rich illuminated transcript of the
+ Congressional resolution, I shall shortly deposit in the Peabody
+ Institution, at the place of my birth, in apartments specially
+ constructed for their safe-keeping, along with other public
+ testimonials with which I have been honored. There I trust it
+ will remain for generations, to attest the generous munificence
+ of the American people in recognizing the efforts, however
+ inadequate, of one of the humblest of their fellow-countrymen to
+ promote the enlightenment and prosperity of his native land.
+
+ To you, Sir, individually, I beg to convey the assurance of my
+ profound gratitude for the interest which you have personally
+ manifested on the occasion, and for the cordial manner in which
+ you have consulted my wishes in relation to the transmission of
+ this gracious record of my country's favor.
+
+ I have the honor to be, with great respect, your humble servant,
+ George PEABODY.
+
+
+
+No. 79. (p. 429)
+PLATE LXXIX.
+
+
+_March 4, 1869--March 4, 1877._
+
+ United States of America. Liberty justice and equality "Let us
+ have peace." [Rx]. On earth peace good will toward men.
+
+PRESIDENT ULYSSES SIMPSON GRANT.
+
+[_Eighteenth President of the United States of America._]
+
+Within a wreath of laurel, at the four points of which are shields of
+the United States of America: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. LIBERTY
+JUSTICE AND EQUALITY "LET US HAVE PEACE." Bust of President Grant,
+facing the right; under it, a calumet of peace and a branch of laurel.
+
+Within a circle composed of thirty-six stars: ON EARTH PEACE GOOD WILL
+TOWARD MEN 1871. The western hemisphere of the globe resting on
+implements of husbandry, with the Holy Bible above it and rays behind
+it.
+
+This medal, though not signed, is by Paquet.
+
+
+
+No. 80. (p. 430)
+PLATE LXXX.
+
+
+_April 14, 1865._
+
+ To George F. Robinson. Awarded by the Congress of the United
+ States, March 1, 1871.
+
+GEORGE FOSTER ROBINSON.
+
+[_Heroic Conduct._]
+
+TO GEORGE F. ROBINSON. AWARDED BY THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES,
+MARCH 1. 1871. Bust of Robinson, facing the left; on the coat, four
+clubs, the badge[124] of the eighteenth army corps, in which he served
+during the Civil War; above, two crowns, one of laurel and one of oak;
+on each side, the following: FOR HIS HEROIC CONDUCT ON THE 14. DAY OF
+APRIL 1865, IN SAVING THE LIFE OF THE HONORABLE WM. H. (_William
+Henry_) SEWARD THEN SECRETARY OF STATE OF THE UNITED STATES.
+
+ [Footnote 124: During the war the campaign badge
+ was of felt, red for the first division, white for
+ the second, and blue for the third. For dress
+ occasions it was of silver, with the color of the
+ division inserted in the badge. The felt badge was
+ worn on the right side of the hat, the silver one
+ as in the plate. By means of the letters, figures,
+ and badge, any one could tell, at a glance, the
+ army corps, division, brigade, regiment, and
+ company, to which a soldier belonged, and the State
+ from which he came.
+
+ After the war Congress passed the following
+ resolution:
+
+ _Resolved, by the Senate and House of
+ Representatives of the United States in Congress
+ assembled_: That all who served as officers,
+ non-commissioned officers, privates, or other
+ enlisted men, in the regular army, volunteer, or
+ militia forces of the United States, during the war
+ of the Rebellion, and have been honorably
+ discharged from the service or remain still in the
+ same, shall be entitled to wear, on occasions of
+ ceremony, the distinctive army badge ordered for or
+ adopted by the army corps or division,
+ respectively, in which they served.
+
+ Approved July 25, 1868.]
+
+Secretary Seward lying in his bed, with curtains half drawn; (p. 431)
+standing at its side, Robinson struggling with Payne, who holds an
+uplifted dagger in his right hand. G. Y. COFFIN. DES. (_designavit._)
+PAQUET. F. (_fecit_).
+
+
+GEORGE FOSTER ROBINSON was born at Hartford, Oxford County, Maine,
+August 13, 1832. In 1863, he enlisted in the 8th regiment of Maine
+Volunteers, and was severely wounded at Bermuda Hundred, May 20, 1864.
+On the night of April 14, 1865, while acting as sick nurse to the
+Honorable William H. Seward, then secretary of State, at the imminent
+peril of his life, and at the cost of serious wounds, he saved Mr.
+Seward from the knife of the assassin Payne. For his heroic conduct on
+this occasion, Congress voted him five thousand dollars and a gold
+medal. He was clerk in the Treasury Department, from June, 1865, to
+August, 1866, when he resigned. He was appointed in December, 1868, to
+a similar position in the quartermaster-general's office, Washington.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting a Medal to George F. Robinson._
+
+ _Be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ Secretary of the Treasury be, and he is hereby, directed to pay
+ to George F. Robinson, late a private in the Eighth Regiment of
+ Maine Volunteers, the sum of five thousand dollars, out of any
+ money in the Treasury of the United States not otherwise
+ appropriated.
+
+ SECTION 2. _And be it further resolved_, That the Secretary of
+ the Treasury be, and he is hereby, directed to cause to be
+ prepared and presented to the said George F. Robinson a gold
+ medal with appropriate devices and inscriptions, commemorative of
+ the heroic conduct of the said Robinson on the fourteenth day of
+ April, eighteen hundred and sixty-five, in saving the life of the
+ Honorable William H. Seward, then secretary of State of the
+ United States, the expense of said medal to be paid out of any
+ money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated.
+
+ Approved March 1st, 1871.
+
+_The Committee on Foreign Affairs, to whom were referred the (p. 432)
+resolutions of the legislature of the State of Maine, declaring that
+the heroic conduct of George F. Robinson, late a private in the Eighth
+Regiment of Maine Volunteers, in saving the life of Secretary Seward
+from the knife of an assassin, at the imminent peril of his own life,
+and at the expense of permanent wounds, should receive public
+recognition by the Congress of the United States, to the end that his
+noble deeds may be known and remembered by the American People, and
+that provision may be made for his future welfare such as right and
+justice demand, and the generous impulse of a grateful people require,
+respectfully submit the following report:_[125]
+
+ [Footnote 125: Reported by Mr. Porter Sheldon, of
+ the Committee on Foreign Affairs.]
+
+ That on the 15th day of August, 1863, George F. Robinson enlisted
+ in the Eighth Regiment of Maine Volunteers. On the 20th day of
+ May, 1864, at an attack at Bermuda Hundred, made on General
+ Butler's lines by the rebels, Robinson was wounded very severely
+ in the leg by a canister shot. He was sent to Douglas Hospital in
+ this city, where he lay nearly a year undergoing great suffering
+ from his wound. On the memorable 14th day of April, 1865,
+ although his wound was not then entirely healed, he was detailed
+ from the hospital to act as nurse to Mr. Seward, the Secretary of
+ State, who, it will be remembered, was confined to his bed by
+ serious injuries--a broken arm and jaw. At 10 o'clock that night
+ Robinson was on duty in Mr. Seward's room, when the assassin,
+ Payne, sought that room to murder the feeble, wounded, helpless
+ Secretary, in pursuance of the great conspiracy which ended with
+ filling the whole civilized world with horror. The Secretary was
+ sleeping; the room was darkened. Robinson hearing a disturbance
+ in the hall opened the door; a flood of light streamed on him
+ from the hall. On the threshold stood the athletic assassin, a
+ revolver in one hand and a huge bowie knife in the other. He saw
+ against the wall the wounded, crazed Assistant Secretary, with
+ blood pouring from his wound. He caught the gleam of that
+ terrible knife aimed at his throat; instinctively he struck up at
+ the assassin's arm to ward off the knife, partially succeeded,
+ but received the blow upon his head, and was prostrated to the
+ floor. Bounding over him, Payne rushed on to the bed, and
+ commenced wildly striking with the knife at the throat of the
+ Secretary. Already he had cut the flesh off from one cheek to the
+ bone, and the blood gushed in torrents over the pillow. This
+ soldier, just from the hospital, with his wounded leg not yet
+ healed, enfeebled from his year of suffering and pain, just
+ prostrated to the floor by a blow from that terrible knife,
+ springs to his feet, and without one moment's hesitation, without
+ one moment's thought for himself, save, as he swears, the thought
+ that he must die to save the Secretary; without a weapon of any
+ description, with a bravery never surpassed in the annals of any
+ country, he opposed his naked hands, his wounded and enfeebled
+ body, to the terrible knife of the gigantic and desperate
+ murderer. He seized the assassin just as the deadly knife was
+ about to bury itself in the throat of the Secretary, and then
+ commenced an unequal struggle which seemingly can only end in the
+ death of the brave soldier. Having succeeded in dragging Payne
+ from off the bed, he receives over his shoulder two deep wounds
+ down his back, inflicting injuries from which one side of (p. 433)
+ his face and two fingers of one hand are still partially
+ paralyzed. He received two more wounds under his left shoulder
+ blade, which proved nearly fatal, and received blows about the
+ head and face from the revolver. At last Payne, probably becoming
+ alarmed for his own safety should he spend more time in the
+ house, wrenched himself loose and fled, stabbing a messenger from
+ the State Department on his way down stairs. Disregarding his own
+ desperate wounds, the blood from which was filling his shoes,
+ with the help of Mr. Seward's daughter Robinson placed the
+ insensible and mangled form of the Secretary on the bed from
+ which he had fallen, and re-covering the gashed cheek with its
+ flesh, he placed his fingers on the wounded artery from which Mr.
+ Seward's life was fast passing, and with the same coolness, the
+ same utter self-abandonment, he kept his position, though
+ scarcely able to stand, and believing himself fatally wounded,
+ until relieved by the arrival of the Surgeon-General. After the
+ Secretary's wounds were dressed his own were attended to, and he
+ was the same night carried back to the hospital.
+
+ On the 17th day of May following Robinson was honorably
+ discharged from the service. Finding himself unable to labor on a
+ farm, by reason of his wounds, he was obliged to sell his little
+ place for some $1,200, and sought employment as a Government
+ clerk. He is now a clerk in the Quartermaster General's
+ Department, at a salary of $1,200 per year, and has no other
+ means of supporting himself, his wife, and boy, except a pension
+ of $8 per month for wounds received on the field of battle.
+ Robinson is a modest man, of excellent character, and a faithful
+ and efficient clerk.
+
+ The committee unanimously recommend the passage of the
+ accompanying joint resolution.
+
+
+
+No. 81. (p. 434)
+PLATE LXXXI.
+
+
+_August 31, 1872._
+
+ By Resolution of Congress February 24, 1873.
+
+LOSS OF THE STEAMER METIS.
+
+[_For Courage and Humanity._]
+
+A man standing in a boat, a coil of rope under his left arm, directs
+oarsmen with his right hand to pull for the wreck of the Metis. One of
+the men is lifting a woman from the sea into the boat. To the right,
+in the background, a light-house.
+
+BY RESOLUTION OF CONGRESS FEBRUARY 24, 1873. Within a wreath of Oak:
+TO[126] FOR COURAGE AND HUMANITY IN THE SAVING OF LIFE FROM THE WRECK
+OF THE STEAMER METIS ON LONG ISLAND SOUND AUGUST 31, 1872. W. & C.
+BARBER.
+
+ [Footnote 126: Blank space for name.]
+
+
+CHARLES E. BARBER, son of William Barber, chief engraver to the United
+States Mint, Philadelphia, was born in London, England, in 1840. He
+came to America with his parents when very young and studied the fine
+arts in the city of New York. He engraved for the Government of the
+United States the Metis and John Horn medals.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to Captain Crandall and others._
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States in Congress assembled_: That the President of the
+ United States is hereby authorized and requested to cause to be
+ made and presented to each of the following persons such
+ suitable and appropriate medals, as in his judgment shall (p. 435)
+ express the high estimation in which Congress hold the
+ respective merits and services of Captain Jared S. Crandall,
+ Albert Crandall, Daniel F. Larkin, Frank Larkin, Byron Green,
+ John D. Harvey, Courtland Gavitt, Eugene Nash, Edwin Nash and
+ William Nash of the town of Westerly, State of Rhode Island, who
+ so gallantly volunteered to man the life-boat and a fishing boat,
+ and saved the lives of thirty-two persons from the wreck of the
+ steamer "Metis," on the waters of Long Island Sound, on the
+ thirty-first day of August, one thousand eight hundred and
+ seventy-two.
+
+ Approved February 24, 1873.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain David Ritchie to the Secretary of the Navy._
+
+ United States Revenue Steamer Mocassin,
+ To the Honorable Newport, Rhode Island, September 1st, 1872.
+ George S. BOUTWELL,
+ Secretary of the Treasury,
+ Washington, District of Columbia.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to submit the following report of the
+ services rendered by this vessel, her officers and crew to the
+ passengers and crew of the wrecked steamer Metis on the morning
+ of August 30th, 1872.
+
+ On the evening of August 29th, while cruising to the westward,
+ weather threatening, ran in for a harbor behind the Stonington
+ breakwater, where we anchored. My glass falling and there being
+ every indication of a storm, I prepared my vessel for it.
+
+ At 8 P.M. the gale began, and continued to increase throughout
+ the night from southeast with heavy sea and blinding rain.
+
+ At daylight the gale moderated and it stopped raining, the wind
+ hauling by south to westward.
+
+ At 9.20 A.M. the first officer of the steamer "Stonington" of
+ the New York and Stonington Line, came alongside, and reported
+ that the steamer "Metis" of the New York and Providence Line, was
+ wrecked off Watch Hill, Rhode Island, the fate of which, together
+ with her one hundred and fifty passengers and crew, was unknown.
+
+ I ordered steam as quickly as possible, and at 10.15 A.M. got
+ under way and proceeded to the scene of the disaster, stationing
+ lookouts aloft and upon the house.
+
+ I soon descried two boats loaded with helpless men, women and
+ children, near the edge of the surf at Watch Hill Light House,
+ and with great difficulty and danger, on account of the heavy
+ sea, succeeded in getting them on board of the "Mocassin."
+
+ I then stood down for the wreck, lowered boats and picked up the
+ living and dead, continuing this sad duty until 3.45 P.M., when
+ night coming on and medical aid being required for those of the
+ rescued who were exhausted, I put the vessel back for Stonington,
+ the nearest port, having no hope of finding any more living
+ persons and seeing no dead bodies remaining afloat. I reached
+ Stonington at 6 P.M. with forty-two rescued persons and (p. 436)
+ seventeen dead bodies which we had recovered from the deep.
+
+ Being a stranger in Stonington, I was at a loss to know what I
+ should do with my precious cargo, but at the wharf I met with
+ unexpected aid in the person of Mr. J. P. Bigelow, chief of the
+ Loan Division of the Treasury Department, who, upon my wants
+ being made known to him, procured proper relief, obtaining
+ through Mrs. Bigelow and ladies in the town, clothing and proper
+ care for five women who were rescued in a state of entire nudity.
+ The men rescued were taken charge of by the citizens, who did all
+ in their power to relieve their distress. All the rescued were
+ greatly exhausted, having been in the water several hours.
+
+ I take great pleasure in informing the Department of the noble
+ and untiring exertions of 1st Lieutenant Joseph Irish, 2d
+ Lieutenant A. D. Littlefield, Chief Engineer Whittaker, Pilot
+ Joseph Case, Boatswain E. F. R. Denison, and each of the crew in
+ saving life, recovering bodies of the drowned and caring for the
+ sick and wounded.
+
+ In the cases of several of the shipwrecked life was apparently
+ extinct, but by the efforts of those on board they were
+ resuscitated. The women were rolled in blankets, and all in our
+ power was done to make them comfortable. Many of the rescued were
+ very weak, and I doubted my ability to get them into port alive.
+
+ I was ably seconded in my work of boating by Captain Crandall,
+ light house keeper at Watch Hill, and his noble crew, they having
+ picked up fourteen living and dead.
+
+ After the last body had been taken on board a sea caught their
+ boat under this vessel's quarter and split her open.
+
+ The boat was the private property of Captain Crandall, who, on
+ beholding her destruction, simply remarked, "She has well paid
+ for herself."
+
+ Five of the dead bodies were identified by those saved on board,
+ and when the living women were clothed and brought to identify
+ their friends, a sad scene presented itself, one recognizing a
+ lost husband, another a sister, two men their wives, and one man
+ his two children.
+
+ The corpses were all numbered, and together with a description
+ list, were delivered to the authorities of Stonington, a copy of
+ said list being retained on board.
+
+ On the morning of the 31st ultimo at daylight, kindly accompanied
+ by J. P. Bigelow, Captain George B. Hull, Superintendent of New
+ York and Providence Steamship Company (one of the rescued), and
+ John McGuire to assist my worn-out officers and men, I again
+ stood for the scene of the wreck and cruised in that vicinity,
+ with lookouts stationed aloft, extending my cruise as far as
+ Block Island. The wind was blowing strong from the northwest and
+ constantly increasing, with a heavy cross sea from the southeast,
+ breaking over and completely covering this vessel.
+
+ There being no signs of any bodies floating about, with decks
+ full of water, I stood for Point Judith. Still finding no signs
+ of the wreck, and the sea getting too heavy to lower a boat, I
+ stood for Newport and anchored.
+
+ Having found a jewel and pocket-book on board (the property of
+ one of the dead), I turned the same over to Mr. Bigelow, to take
+ them to Stonington for the purpose of identifying corpse marked
+ No. 4.
+
+ Trusting that the conduct of the Mocassin, under my command, (p. 437)
+ and the acts of her officers and crew may meet the approval
+ of the Department,
+
+ I remain, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ David RITCHIE,
+ _Captain United States Revenue Marine_.
+
+ _____
+
+_Resolution of Congress Voting Thanks to Captain Ritchie._
+
+ _Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States in Congress assembled_: That the thanks of Congress
+ are due, and are hereby tendered to Captain David Ritchie,
+ commanding the revenue steamer Mocassin, and to the officers and
+ men under his command, for their heroic and humane action in
+ saving the lives of forty-two persons from the wreck of the
+ steamer "Metis" on the waters of Long Island Sound, on the
+ morning of the thirty-first of August, eighteen hundred and
+ seventy-two.
+
+ Approved January 24, 1873.
+
+
+
+No. 82. (p. 438)
+PLATE LXXXII.
+
+
+_1876._
+
+ These United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and
+ independent States. [Rx]. In commemoration of the hundredth
+ anniversary, etc.
+
+CENTENNIAL MEDAL.
+
+[_Hundredth Anniversary of American Independence._]
+
+THESE UNITED COLONIES ARE, AND OF RIGHT OUGHT TO BE, FREE AND
+INDEPENDENT STATES.[127] A female figure, personifying the United
+Colonies, is kneeling, with a sword in her right hand, while she
+points with her left to a constellation of thirteen stars,
+emblematical of the thirteen original United States. Exergue: 1776.
+
+ [Footnote 127: These words occur in the following
+ resolution of the Continental Congress:
+
+ IN CONGRESS.
+
+ _Resolved_: That the consideration of the first
+ resolution be postponed to Monday, the first day of
+ July next, and in the meanwhile, that no time be
+ lost in case the Congress agree thereto, that a
+ committee be appointed to prepare a declaration to
+ the effect of the said first resolution, which is
+ in these words: "That these United Colonies are,
+ and of right ought to be, Free and Independent
+ States, that they are absolved from all allegiance
+ to the British Crown; and that all political
+ connection between them and the State of Great
+ Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved."
+
+ Monday, June 10th, 1776.]
+
+IN COMMEMORATION OF THE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY OF AMERICAN
+INDEPENDENCE. ACT OF CONGRESS JUNE 1874. America personified as a
+maiden, coiffed with the Phrygian cap of liberty, girt with a sword,
+and with the shield of the United States of America by her side, is
+crowning with laurels two female figures representing Manufactures and
+Arts. On the platform, 1876.
+
+This medal, though not signed, is by William Barber.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 439)
+
+_Act of Congress Authorizing Centennial Medals._
+
+ _Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States in Congress assembled_: That medals with
+ appropriate devices, emblems and inscriptions, commemorative of
+ the Centennial Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, be
+ prepared at the mint at Philadelphia for the Centennial Board of
+ Finance, subject to the provisions of the fifty-second section of
+ the coinage act of eighteen hundred and seventy-three, upon the
+ payment of a sum not less than the cost thereof, and all the
+ provisions whether penal or otherwise of said coinage act against
+ the counterfeiting or imitating of coins of the United States
+ shall apply to the medals struck and issued under the provisions
+ of this act.
+
+ Approved June 16, 1874.
+
+ _____
+
+_Official Notice Promulgated by the Centennial Board of Finance._
+
+ United States Centennial Board of Finance,
+ Philadelphia, March 24, 1875.
+
+ It being deemed essential "that medals, with appropriate devices,
+ emblems, and inscriptions, commemorative of the centennial
+ anniversary of the Declaration of Independence," should be
+ officially issued, the Congress of the United States, by special
+ act, approved June 16, 1874, directed the same to be prepared at
+ the Mint for the Centennial Board of Finance, subject to the
+ provisions of the fifty-second section of the coinage act of
+ 1873, upon the payment of a sum not less than the cost thereof,
+ and all the provisions, whether penal or otherwise, of said
+ coinage act against the counterfeiting or imitation of coins of
+ the United States shall apply to the medals struck and issued
+ under the provisions of this act. These medals having been
+ prepared and issued are now being sold by the Centennial Board of
+ Finance and its agents, and the profits arising therefrom
+ strictly applied in aid of the preparation for the celebration of
+ the anniversary which the medals commemorate. They are the only
+ medals relating to the great events of 1876, officially issued,
+ and may be readily distinguished from any of the tokens styled
+ Centennial medals and issued by private parties for their
+ individual profit, from the fact that in addition to the designs
+ and other wording, the larger medals have stamped upon them "Act
+ of Congress, June, 1874," and the others, "By authority of the
+ Congress of the U. S."
+
+ These official medals are of four kinds: small gilt at $1; large
+ bronze at $2; coin silver at $3; large gilt at $5, or all
+ inclosed in one case at $11. Cautionary notice is hereby given
+ that the Centennial Board of Finance intends to avail itself of
+ the protection and privilege granted by the acts of Congress
+ above mentioned, and that the highly penal provisions for
+ publishing, counterfeiting, or imitating the authorized official
+ medals will be strictly enforced against all infringement and
+ violation.
+
+ John WELSH,
+ _President Centennial Board of Finance_.
+
+ Frederick FRALEY, _Secretary_.
+
+
+
+No. 83. (p. 440)
+PLATE LXXXIII.
+
+
+_1876._
+
+ These United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and
+ independent States. [Rx]. By authority of the Congress, etc.
+
+CENTENNIAL MEDAL.
+
+[_Hundredth Anniversary of American Independence._]
+
+THESE UNITED COLONIES ARE, AND OF RIGHT OUGHT TO BE, FREE AND
+INDEPENDENT STATES.[128] A female figure, personifying the United
+Colonies, is kneeling, with a sword in her right hand, while she
+points with her left to a constellation of thirteen stars,
+emblematical of the thirteen original United States. Exergue: 1776.
+
+ [Footnote 128: See note 1 under No. 82, page 438.]
+
+BY AUTHORITY OF THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES 1876. Within a
+wreath of laurel, IN COMMEMORATION OF THE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY OF
+AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE.[129]
+
+ [Footnote 129: The act of Congress in relation to
+ the Centennial Medals, and an official notice
+ promulgated by the Centennial Board of Finance, are
+ given under No. 82, page 438.]
+
+This medal, though not signed, is by William Barber.
+
+
+
+No. 84. (p. 441)
+PLATE LXXXIV.
+
+
+_June 20, 1874._
+
+ Life Saving medal of the first class. United States of America.
+ [Rx]. In testimony of heroic deeds, etc.
+
+LIFE SAVING MEDAL OF THE FIRST CLASS.
+
+[_Saving Life from the Perils of the Sea._]
+
+LIFE SAVING MEDAL OF THE FIRST CLASS . UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. .
+Three men in a boat in a heavy sea. One is rescuing a person who has
+hold of a spar, at the end of which is a block with its sheet. Another
+is standing, casting a rope, and a third is seated and rowing. In the
+distance, to the left, is the wreck of a large vessel. PAQUET. F.
+(_fecit_).
+
+IN TESTIMONY OF HEROIC DEEDS IN SAVING LIFE FROM THE PERILS OF THE
+SEA. A female figure, standing, holds in her left hand a wreath of
+oak, and with her right is preparing to inscribe the name of the
+recipient on a monument which is surmounted by the American eagle, and
+to the right of which are a mast, a yard with its sail bent, an
+anchor, a sextant, and a branch of laurel. Exergue: ACT OF CONGRESS
+JUNE 20th 1874. PAQUET.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 442)
+
+_Act of Congress Instituting Life Saving Medals._
+
+ _Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ Secretary of the Treasury is hereby directed to cause to be
+ prepared medals of honor, with suitable devices, to be
+ distinguished as Life-Saving Medals of the first and second
+ class, which shall be bestowed upon any persons who shall
+ hereafter endanger their own lives in saving, or endeavoring to
+ save lives from perils of the sea, within the United States, or
+ upon any American vessel: _Provided_, That the medal of the first
+ class shall be confined to cases of extreme and heroic daring,
+ and that the medal of the second class shall be given in cases
+ not sufficiently distinguished to deserve the medal of the first
+ class: _Provided also_, That no award of either medal shall be
+ made to any person until sufficient evidence of his deserving
+ shall have been filed with the Secretary of the Treasury and
+ entered upon the records of the Department.
+
+ Approved June 20, 1874.
+
+ _____
+
+_Lucien M. Clemons, A. J. Clemons, and Hubbard M. Clemons, of
+Marblehead, Ohio, for rescuing two men from wreck of Schooner
+"Consuello," in Lake Erie, May 1, 1875. Awarded June 19th, 1876._
+
+ Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary,
+ Washington, D. C., June 30th, 1876.
+ To
+ Lucien M. CLEMONS, Esq.,[130]
+ Marblehead, Ohio.
+
+ [Footnote 130: Similar letters were written to A.
+ J. Clemons and Hubbard M. Clemons.]
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a life-saving medal of
+ the first-class, which has been awarded to you under authority of
+ the provisions of the seventh section of the Act of Congress,
+ approved June 20, 1874, for the extreme and heroic daring
+ manifested by you in the rescue, under circumstances of peculiar
+ peril and difficulty, of two men from the wreck of the schooner
+ "Consuello," near Marblehead, Ohio, on the 1st of May, 1875.
+
+ In sending you this medal it is remarked that it and the two
+ others respectively awarded to your associates in the hazardous
+ undertaking referred to, are the first that have been issued
+ under the provisions of the act above named, and the Department
+ is gratified that the law should commence its operations by
+ honoring and commemorating an action of such distinguished
+ gallantry.
+
+ I have the honor to be, Sir, your obedient servant,
+ Charles F. CONANT,
+ _Acting Secretary_.
+
+ _____
+
+_Hugh Beard, James Conley, William Gregory, Charles Danslow, (p. 443)
+John Dolman, George Lee, Philip Murphy, James Munday, James Martin,
+William Ruffler, Samuel Richards, and William Stewart, members of the
+crew of the Mersey Docks and Harbor Board; and E. Crabtree, Charles
+Eddington, William Griffith, James Godfrey, W. Jones, John Dean, James
+Duncan, James Harvey, Robert Lucas, Thomas Maloney, Charles McKenzie,
+John Powell, John Robinson, R. J. Thomas, and Henry Williams, members
+of the crew of the "Royal National Life-Boat Institution," at New
+Brighton, England, for rescuing persons at the wreck of the American
+Ship "Ellen Southard" September 27, 1875, at the mouth of River
+Mersey, Liverpool, England. Awarded February 27, 1877._
+
+ Treasury Department, Office of The Secretary,
+ Washington, D. C. March 3d, 1877.
+ To
+ Mr. James MARTIN,[131]
+ Master of the Mersey Docks
+ and Harbor Board Life Boat, Liverpool, England.
+
+ [Footnote 131: Similar letters were sent to Hugh
+ Beard, James Conley, William Gregory, Charles
+ Danslow, John Dolman, George Lee, Philip Murphy,
+ James Munday, William Ruffler, Samuel Richards, and
+ William Stewart.]
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a life-saving medal of
+ the first class, which has been awarded to you, under the
+ authority of the provisions of the seventh section of the Act of
+ the Congress of the United States, approved June 20, 1874, for
+ the extreme and heroic daring manifested by you in the rescue,
+ under circumstances of peculiar danger and difficulty, of
+ seventeen persons from the wreck of the American ship "Ellen
+ Southard," on the 27th of September, 1875, at the mouth of the
+ river Mersey, near Liverpool.
+
+ It is the first time this nation has had an opportunity to offer
+ to other than its own citizens the medal of the life-saving
+ service, and it is a matter of congratulation that the occasion
+ is more than worthy of the token. No words, it is felt, can do
+ justice to the conduct of the men of the Liverpool life-boat upon
+ the scene of the wreck of the "Ellen Southard," and the fatal
+ disaster which followed the rescue, whereby nine persons
+ belonging to the ship and three of your gallant comrades
+ perished, while it saddens the glory of the deliverance, yet
+ throws into bolder relief the noble courage of the life-boat crew
+ by disclosing the dreadful hazards they dared to encounter. Upon
+ you, as upon each of the survivors, it is my privilege to bestow,
+ in behalf of the United States, this medal, provided by law in
+ grateful recognition of such deeds, and I beg you will accept it
+ with this expression of the appreciation of the gallant conduct
+ it commemorates.
+
+ I have the honor to be, Sir, your obedient servant,
+ Charles F. CONANT,
+ _Acting Secretary of the Treasury_.
+
+ _____
+
+ To Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary, (p. 444)
+ Mr. John DEAN,[132] Washington, D. C., March 3, 1877
+ Member of the crew of the Life-Boat
+ of the Royal National Life-Boat Institution
+ at New Brighton, England.
+
+ [Footnote 132: Similar letters of the same date
+ were sent to E. Crabtree, Charles Eddington,
+ William Griffith, James Godfrey, W. Jones, James
+ Duncan, James Harvey, Robert Lucas, Thomas Maloney,
+ Charles McKenzie, John Powell, John Robinson, R. J.
+ Thomas, and Henry Williams.]
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a life-saving medal of
+ the first class which has been awarded to you, under the
+ authority of the provisions of the seventh section of the Act of
+ the Congress of the United States, approved June 20, 1874, for
+ the extreme and heroic daring manifested by you in the rescue,
+ under circumstances of peculiar danger and difficulty, of eight
+ persons from the wreck of the American ship "Ellen Southard," at
+ the mouth of the river Mersey, near Liverpool.
+
+ In transmitting this offering to you, as to each member of the
+ crew of the Life-Boat of the Royal National Life-Boat Institution
+ stationed at New Brighton, it is proper to remark that it is the
+ first time an opportunity has arisen for bestowing the medal of
+ the life-saving service of this country upon subjects of a
+ foreign nation. It was the fortune of your crew to arrive upon
+ the scene of disaster after the Liverpool life-boat men had
+ effected a deliverance, and been in turn subjected to a dreadful
+ casualty, whereby nine of the persons they had rescued and three
+ of their own number were drowned: and the remaining eight persons
+ from the vessel and the twelve men of the Liverpool crew,
+ clinging to the capsized boat in a fearful sea, owe their lives
+ to you and your comrades. The extreme jeopardy and hardships you
+ encountered upon the occasion of their rescue are deeply
+ appreciated, and, in behalf of the United States, I beg you to
+ accept this testimonial, provided by law in recognition of such
+ deeds of bravery and compassion. In sending it, allow me to add
+ the expression of the sense of the gallantry and the devotion to
+ high human duty which marked the conduct of yourself and of your
+ comrades upon the occasion under notice, and of the assurance
+ that each member of your crew, in his own person, by this deed of
+ valor and mercy, confers fresh and just honor upon the great name
+ of England.
+
+ I have the honor to be, Sir, your obedient servant,
+ Charles F. CONANT,
+ _Acting Secretary of the Treasury_.
+
+ _____
+
+_Report of the United States Life-Saving Service._
+
+ Treasury Department,
+ To the Honorable United States Life-Saving Service,
+ LOT M. MORRILL, Washington, D. C., November 30, 1876.
+ Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir:
+ - - - - -
+
+ AWARDS OF MEDALS.
+
+ During the year three life-saving medals of the first class and
+ two of the second class have been awarded under the provisions of
+ the act of June 20, 1874. The medals of the first class were (p. 445)
+ bestowed upon Messrs. Lucien M. Clemons, Hubbard M. Clemons,
+ and A. J. Clemons, of Marblehead, Ohio, three brothers, who
+ displayed the most signal gallantry in saving two men from the
+ wreck of the schooner Consuelo, about two miles north of that
+ place, on May 1, 1875. It appears from the evidence of the
+ transaction that the schooner, which was heavily laden with
+ blocks of stone, was seen by a number of spectators on the shore
+ laboring in apparent distress in the passage between Kelley's
+ Island and Marblehead, the sea at the time being tremendous and
+ the wind blowing a gale from the northeast, when her cargo of
+ stone blocks, which had been left upon rollers, thereby causing
+ the disaster, suddenly shifted, and the vessel at once capsized
+ and went down. Five of her crew immediately perished; but the
+ remaining two succeeded in getting a hold in the cross-trees of
+ the mainmast, which were above water, where they clung for nearly
+ an hour. It was then that the three heroic brothers took a small
+ flat-bottomed skiff, twelve feet long, three feet wide, and
+ fifteen inches deep, the only boat available on the coast, and
+ leaving their weeping wives and children, who formed a part of
+ the watching group of forty or fifty persons on the shore, went
+ out in this frail shell to the rescue. The venture was, in the
+ judgment of the lookers-on, several of them old sailors,
+ hazardous in the extreme, but after nearly an hour's hard
+ struggle with the waves, the Clemons brothers gained the wreck
+ and delivered the two exhausted men from their perilous position
+ in the rigging. With the added burden in their skiff they were
+ then unable to make the shore, but remained for a long time
+ tossing about upon the high sea in momentary danger of
+ destruction, when fortunately they were descried by a steam-tug
+ at Kelley's Island, which came to their assistance. Under these
+ circumstances the medals of honor awarded them must be considered
+ justly due to their self-forgetful heroism.
+
+ The medals of the second class were given to Messrs. Otis N.
+ Wheeler and John O. Philbrick, in recognition of their services
+ in saving the lives of two men wrecked on Watts' Ledge, on the
+ coast of Maine, on Tuesday, the 30th of November, 1875. It
+ appears that Mr. Wheeler happened to see at 9 o'clock in the
+ morning, from the window of a house on Richmond Island, a man
+ standing on the ledge, which is about a quarter of a mile
+ distant, waving his hat as a signal of distress, and called on
+ Mr. Philbrick, the only other man on the island, to assist in
+ rescuing him. The wind was blowing a gale from the northwest, the
+ ocean was rough and covered with vapor, and the weather was very
+ cold, being at sunrise 16 deg. below zero. The two life-savers went
+ out in a dory, one rowing and the other making thole-pins for the
+ pull back, there being but one pair. Arrived at the ledge, they
+ found there two men, one lying at length on his side, where he
+ had resigned himself to death, and got them with considerable
+ difficulty into the dory, great care being necessary to prevent
+ the boat being stove on the sharp rocks on account of the dashing
+ of the sea upon the ledge. The return was effected with two pairs
+ of oars, the second set of thole-pins being finished, and
+ involved a hard pull dead to windward.
+
+ The men saved were badly frozen. They had been on the ledge since
+ 9 o'clock of the night preceding, and at high tide, which was
+ during the night, had stood in a foot and a half of water, which
+ is the height to which the sea rises at that time over the
+ highest point of the rock. When they were taken off they were
+ almost helpless, and probably could not have survived an hour
+ longer. Their boots had to be cut off; their feet and hands (p. 446)
+ kept for hours in cold water; great blisters which puffed up
+ two and three inches high on their extremities were opened
+ with a knife, and they were put to bed in a forlorn condition.
+ Mr. Wheeler then took the dory and rowed two miles dead to
+ windward with extreme difficulty, the wind blowing very hard, and
+ the sea feather-white with foam, till he reached Cape Elizabeth,
+ where he purchased rum, liniment, corn-meal and coffee. He got
+ back to the island about dark, bringing with him Mr. Andrew J.
+ Wheeler. The rescued men were then in great suffering; and rum,
+ gruel and coffee were administered to them, and their feet,
+ hands, and heads bathed in liniment and rum. They were constantly
+ and tenderly cared for by Messrs. Wheeler and Philbrick, assisted
+ by Mr. Andrew J. Wheeler, until Thursday noon following, when
+ they were taken off the island by the revenue-cutter Dallas.
+
+ The active and steadfast humanity of Messrs. Wheeler and
+ Philbrick, involving such marked labors, hardships and sacrifices
+ in the interest of two poor castaways, can only be recognized,
+ not recompensed, by the medals of honor bestowed upon them. It
+ appears that they also, together with Mr. John N. Wheeler, of
+ Cape Elizabeth, were subjected to considerable pecuniary loss on
+ account of supplies and medicaments furnished these unfortunate
+ men, clothing and bedding spoiled by the ichor from their sores,
+ and journeys by team to Portland, to notify the Collector of
+ their situation and necessities; and it is matter for deep regret
+ that there is no appropriation available under the law to satisfy
+ claims so intrinsically just, and arising under such
+ circumstances.
+
+ Correspondence has been received from the Honorable the Secretary
+ of State in relation to aid rendered by English life-boat crews
+ to the crew of the American ship Ellen Southard, including a
+ dispatch from the American consul at Liverpool, dated October 16,
+ 1875, recommending recognition of the gallantry of these crews
+ upon that occasion, and suggesting that this might take the form
+ of a medal for each one of the members thereof. It appears that
+ the Ellen Southard was wrecked by stranding on Sunday, the 26th
+ of September, 1875, in a furious gale and frightful sea, at the
+ mouth of the river Mersey. The ship soon began to break up, and
+ unavailing efforts to construct a raft were made by her officers
+ and men, who remained in extreme peril during the whole night.
+ The next morning, news of the disaster having reached Liverpool,
+ the life-boat belonging to the Mersey Docks and Harbor Board, and
+ the life-boat stationed at New Brighton, of the Royal National
+ Life-boat Institution, came to the rescue. The Liverpool boat
+ arrived in advance of the other, and, after much difficulty and
+ danger, succeeded in taking off all the persons on the wreck,
+ seventeen in number, including the pilot. A few moments after,
+ while all on board were congratulating themselves upon the
+ fortunate escape, a terrific wave, which appeared, as averred by
+ the deposition of some of the survivors, to be as high as a
+ house, threw the life-boat entirely over, and eight of those
+ belonging to the ship, including the captain and his wife, the
+ pilot, and three of the fifteen life-boat men, making twelve
+ persons in all, were drowned. The life-boat, which appears not to
+ have been of the self-righting variety, remained bottom upward,
+ and after struggling in the water for a considerable time, the
+ survivors, being twelve of the life-boat crew and eight of the
+ crew of the ship, managed to get on to her, where they clung for
+ about an hour in great peril, when the New Brighton life-boat
+ arrived and took them on board.
+
+ This melancholy disaster sets in the strongest relief the (p. 447)
+ gallant devotion of the crews of the two English life-boats,
+ all the members of which risked their lives, while three of them
+ died in the brave effort to save our countrymen. The sorrow that
+ must be felt for those who perished in this manly endeavor is
+ tempered with satisfaction that the terms of the law permit us to
+ bestow upon their living comrades in the enterprise the fitting
+ tokens of our appreciation; and gold medals of the first class
+ have been awarded to the twenty-seven survivors, and will be
+ struck as soon as possible.
+
+ - - - - -
+ I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ S. I. KIMBALL,
+ _In charge of life-Saving Service_.
+
+ _____
+
+_Colonel J. S. Crosby, U. S. Consul at Florence, Italy, for rescuing
+the life of Miss Edith May, and endeavoring to rescue the late Miss
+Adele Hunter, and Mr. W. T. Garner and his wife, at the sinking of the
+Yacht "Mohawk," in New York Harbor, July 20, 1876. Awarded June 8,
+1877._
+
+ To Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary,
+ COLONEL J. SCHUYLER CROSBY, Washington, D. C., June 30, 1877.
+ United States Consul, Florence, Italy.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a life-saving medal of
+ the first class, and which has been awarded to you, under
+ authority of the provisions of the seventh section of the Act of
+ Congress approved June 20, 1874, for the extreme and heroic
+ daring manifested by you in saving the life of Miss Edith May,
+ and endeavoring to rescue the late Miss Adele Hunter and Mr.
+ William T. Garner and his wife, under the circumstances of
+ peculiar peril and difficulty which attended the sinking of the
+ yacht "Mohawk," on the 20th of July, 1876.
+
+ The sorrowful catastrophe of that day will not soon be forgotten,
+ and will be all the more remembered for the noble manhood it
+ called into action. The vessel sank within four minutes. In that
+ brief time you saved one life from the sinking cabin. There you
+ re-entered, and remained until submerged, engaged in the
+ desperate and heroic efforts to save the others, escaping
+ yourself finally only by swimming upward through the broken
+ sky-light, guided by the faint light shed from the above through
+ the water. In sending you this medal, the highest recognition of
+ your conduct which the Government can give, it is felt that no
+ words can add distinction to the splendid gallantry which the
+ token seeks to commemorate and honor.
+
+ I have the honor to be, Sir, very respectfully,
+ John SHERMAN,
+ _Secretary_.
+
+ _____
+
+_Carl Fosberg, for endeavoring to save the late Miss Adele Hunter (p. 448)
+and Mr. William T. Garner and his wife, at the sinking of the
+Yacht "Mohawk," in New York Harbor, July 20, 1876. Awarded June 8,
+1877._
+
+ To Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary,
+ Mr. CARL FOSBERG, Washington, D. C., September 22, 1877.
+ Quartermaster, Yacht "Madeleine,"
+ Care of Commodore John S. Dickerson,
+ No. 29 Cliff Street, New York.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a life-saving medal of
+ the first class, which has been awarded to you, under authority
+ of the provisions of the seventh section of the Act of Congress
+ approved June 20, 1874, for the extreme and heroic daring
+ manifested by you in endeavoring to rescue the late Miss Adele
+ Hunter and Mr. William T. Garner and his wife, under
+ circumstances of peculiar peril and difficulty, which attended
+ the sudden sinking of the yacht "Mohawk," on the 20th of July,
+ 1876.
+
+ It is regretted that, owing to the inability of the Department to
+ discover your address, the medal could not sooner be forwarded.
+ In now sending it to you I recur to the circumstances of the
+ conduct it is intended to recognize and commemorate. The record
+ shows that the "Mohawk" sank within four minutes. During that
+ time and when the vessel was on her beam ends, you rushed down
+ into her cabin, where Colonel Crosby was already, and remained
+ there with him until the cabin was almost filled with water,
+ engaged in devoted though unavailing efforts to extricate the
+ unfortunate ladies from the furniture which had fallen upon them,
+ and escaping finally only by swimming upward through the broken
+ skylight, guided by the faint light which penetrated the water.
+ It must be noted that you were not bound by any tie of friendship
+ or kindred to those you tried to rescue, and that you were not
+ impelled by any consideration of reward, but solely by the
+ gallant instincts of manhood. Language has no power to add
+ distinction to heroism like yours, but in sending you this medal,
+ which is the highest tribute to your conduct that the Government
+ can bestow, it is a satisfaction to be able to express the
+ feeling that in men like you the traditional nobility of the
+ sailor is preserved.
+
+ Very respectfully,
+ John SHERMAN,
+ _Secretary_.
+
+ _____
+
+_Report of the United States Life-Saving Service._
+
+ Treasury Department,
+ To the Honorable United States Life-Saving Service,
+ John SHERMAN, Washington, D. C., November 29, 1877.
+ Secretary of the Treasury, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Sir:
+
+ - - - - -
+ AWARDS OF MEDALS.
+
+ Two life-saving medals of the first class, and six life-saving
+ medals of the second class, have been awarded during the year
+ under the provisions of the act of June 20, 1874.
+
+ The medals of the first class were awarded to Colonel J. (p. 449)
+ Schuyler Crosby, of New York, at this date the American consul at
+ Florence, and Carl Fosberg, a seaman belonging to the yacht
+ Mohawk, in recognition of their extraordinary gallantry upon the
+ occasion of the sudden sinking of that vessel in New York Harbor
+ on the afternoon of the 20th of July, 1876. The horror which this
+ dreadful catastrophe diffused for days through New York and its
+ environs was only relieved by their action, which revealed some
+ of the noblest traits of the human soul. The Mohawk was the
+ largest and costliest of the fleet of pleasure vessels belonging
+ to the New York Yacht Club. She was the property of Mr. William
+ T. Garner, a wealthy merchant of New York, residing near New
+ Brighton, Staten Island, and was sumptuously furnished and
+ appointed. On Thursday afternoon (July 20, 1876) she lay at her
+ anchorage in New York Bay, off Stapleton, Staten Island. At about
+ half past three o'clock Mr. Garner arrived on board with a party
+ of friends, consisting of Mr. Gardiner G. Howland, Mr. Louis B.
+ Montant, Colonel J. Schuyler Crosby, Mr. Frost Thorne, together
+ with Mrs. Garner, Miss Adele Hunter, and Miss Edith May,
+ arrangements having been made for a sail down the bay. The day
+ had been somewhat dark and cloudy, with occasional squalls and
+ showers, and at the time of the company coming on board a
+ thunder-storm was rising in the southwest, of which no other
+ notice was taken by the guests than to retreat into the cabin
+ from the already dropping rain. The order had been given by Mr.
+ Garner to get under way, and under the direction of the
+ sailing-master, Rowland, the anchor had been lifted from the
+ bottom, but was still in the water, and all the working sails
+ were set except the flying-jib. The neighboring craft, of which
+ there was a number, had all taken in sail, and the men upon the
+ decks waited to see how the Mohawk would behave in the coming
+ squall. At that moment although there was hardly a breath on
+ deck, a wind smote the upper sails, and the sailing-master gave
+ orders to let go the fore-sheet, the jib-sheets, and the
+ fore-topsail. The order had only been obeyed in respect to the
+ fore-topsail, when the squall struck the yacht with such fury
+ that she careened, and lurched violently to port.
+
+ There was an instant tumult of cries, and the gentlemen rushed up
+ on deck from the cabin. In a moment the vessel was on her side
+ with the water pouring over the rail. While she was going over,
+ Mr. Garner and Colonel Crosby hurried back into the cabin to save
+ the ladies. Miss May was far over on the port side as they
+ entered, and Colonel Crosby, calling to her to get out as quickly
+ as possible, met her half way as she came across, got her to the
+ companion-way, where he pushed her up to Mr. Howland and Mr.
+ Montant, and sprang back into the cabin. The bravery of this
+ action will be realized when it is stated that the water was then
+ pouring down the companion-way in a steady stream. To enter the
+ filling cabin down this narrow way, in a vessel keeled over on
+ her side and rapidly sinking, seemed certain death. This Colonel
+ Crosby did, and with equal courage, the seaman Fosberg rushed in
+ with him. The scene in the cabin was frightful. The rich and
+ heavy furniture had shifted, and Mrs. Garner and Miss Hunter were
+ caught and pinioned by it against the sideboard. Mrs. Garner was
+ screaming and her husband was making frantic efforts to release
+ her and her companion, by throwing off the heavy articles which
+ held them down. In these endeavors Colonel Crosby and Carl
+ Fosberg desperately joined, pulling away the furniture and
+ handing it up to Mr. Montant and Mr. Howland, who threw in (p. 450)
+ out on deck. The water, meanwhile, continued to pour in and
+ the cabin rapidly filled. Although nearly submerged, the three
+ men never stopped their perilous work while it could be
+ continued. Their labors were, however, ineffectual, and were
+ ended by the sinking of the vessel. It was only four minutes from
+ the moment she capsized till she went down. Mr. Garner was
+ drowned, clinging to his wife, whom he would not leave. Colonel
+ Crosby and Carl Fosberg, toiling to the last second, were
+ engulfed, and nearly lost their lives. Swallowed by the flood in
+ the cabin, they only escaped by swimming upward, guided by the
+ faint light shed through the water from the broken skylight. The
+ aperture was fortunately large enough to enable them to pass
+ through, and they reached the surface, and were picked up by one
+ of the many boats which at once began to gather around the sunken
+ vessel.
+
+ The yacht sank so rapidly that Miss May, after being saved by
+ Colonel Crosby from the cabin, was again placed in the greatest
+ danger. She had not instantly quitted the vessel, being advised
+ to remain by Mr. Montant, who, with Mr. Howland, was engaged in
+ throwing the cabin furniture out on deck from the companion-way.
+ Consequently, when the vessel went down, they were all three
+ caught between the companion-way and the furniture, which was now
+ washed back into the cabin, and were completely covered by the
+ rushing flood. Fortunately, Miss May had her arm outside the
+ companion-way, which prevented her from being swept back into the
+ cabin, and Mr. Montant, in his struggles, losing hold of her, she
+ was enabled to swim, and with a few strokes gained the surface of
+ the water, coming up near Mr. Howland, who supported her till
+ they were picked up by a boat from a neighboring yacht. Mr.
+ Montant also escaped, though unhappily he did not long survive
+ the shock of the disaster.
+
+ The gold medals of the life-saving service have never been
+ awarded more deservedly than in this instance. It was no common
+ courage and humanity that impelled these two brave men to plunge
+ within the sinking vessel, where in the half darkness, amidst the
+ confusion of huddled furniture and rushing water, they strove for
+ the lives of the unfortunate victims. The perfect behavior of the
+ one in his manful efforts for his friends is matched by the
+ action of the other in imperilling his life for strangers.
+ Writing of him to the department, Colonel Crosby expresses a true
+ feeling, the utterance of which adds new honor to his own
+ conduct, in these words: "Too much cannot be said in favor of
+ this man, who was governed simply by his own brave instincts
+ rather than the hope of any reward. Nor did he have friendly or
+ loyal considerations to prompt him to risk his own life, which he
+ did by remaining to the last moment on board."
+
+ It deserves to be stated in this connection that Mr. Carl Fosberg
+ completed his gallantry by his modesty. After the affair in which
+ he behaved so well, he kept out of the way. When reporters sought
+ him he hid. It was with difficulty, and after some time, that he
+ could be found to give him the medal to which his conduct had
+ entitled him.
+
+ The life-saving medals of the second class were bestowed upon six
+ men who, at the risk of their own lives, saved a crew of nine
+ persons from the wreck of the bark Tanner. This vessel, bound for
+ Buffalo with a cargo of wheat, stranded about ten o'clock (p. 451)
+ on the night of September 9, 1875, on the beach south of the
+ harbor of Milwaukee. A severe northeast gale was prevailing,
+ and the vessel being submerged in about 20 feet of water, her
+ captain and crew were forced to take to the rigging, where they
+ remained all night, with the heavy sea breaking over them. At
+ daylight the captain jumped into the sea, and in the effort to
+ gain the shore was drowned. The unfortunate crew remained in the
+ utmost peril, one of the masts of the sunken vessel having
+ fallen, and the vessel herself fast going to pieces. Their rescue
+ was ineffectually attempted by the revenue-steamer Johnson, aided
+ by the tug F. C. Maxon. It was finally accomplished toward noon
+ of that day (September 10, 1875) by the following contrivance: A
+ scow held by a long line from a steam-tug was allowed to drift
+ down near the wreck, and a yawl-boat, similarly held to the scow,
+ was let down still nearer. The men in the rigging then dropped
+ one by one into the water and were picked up by those in the
+ yawl, which was then drawn up with its burden to the scow, which
+ in turn was drawn to shore. The six men referred to manned the
+ yawl and scow, volunteering for this difficult and hazardous
+ duty. Their names were Henry M. Lee, N. A. Petersen, Barnt
+ Oleson, Anton Oleson, Henry Spark, and John McKenna. The skill
+ and daring they displayed in the task of deliverance won hearty
+ applause from many spectators, and fully entitled them to the
+ recognition expressed by the medals awarded them.
+
+ The twenty-seven gold medals, mentioned in the last report as
+ having been awarded to the crew of the life-boat of the Royal
+ National Institution, and the twelve survivors of the crew of the
+ Mersey Docks and Harbor Board life-boat, in recognition of their
+ efforts to rescue the persons on board of the American ship Ellen
+ Southard, wrecked at the mouth of the river Mersey, near
+ Liverpool, on September 26, 1875, efforts which cost three of the
+ life-boatmen their lives, have since been struck, and delivered
+ to the members of the respective crews. The presentation took
+ place on the 16th of April, 1877, at the Town Hall, in Liverpool,
+ the proceedings being attended by a large number of corporation
+ officials, officers of mercantile associations, the principal
+ American merchants in Liverpool, and most of the masters of
+ American ships in port. The deputy mayor of Liverpool presided,
+ and the affair assumed the gratifying character of an ovation to
+ the brave recipients of the medals, and was also the occasion for
+ cordial and enthusiastic references, on the part of the
+ distinguished gentlemen at the meeting, to the action of our
+ government in the matter, which met with a suitable response from
+ General Fairchild, the American consul at Liverpool, who was also
+ present. The same cordial spirit appeared in the comments which
+ the occasion elicited from the English press.
+
+ I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant,
+ S. I. KIMBALL,
+ _General Superintendent_.
+
+ _____
+
+_Philip C. Bleil, of the Metropolitan Police force of New York (p. 452)
+City, for rescuing, at different times, several persons from
+drowning, from November, 1876, to June, 1877. Awarded January 4.
+1878._
+
+ To Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary,
+ Mr. PHILIP C. BLEIL, Washington, D. C., January 15, 1878.
+ Patrolman, New York Metropolitan Police,
+ New York City.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a life-saving medal of
+ the first class, which has been awarded to you under authority of
+ the Act of Congress approved June 20, 1874, in recognition of
+ your services in rescuing from drowning, at the peril of your own
+ life, six persons, on as many occasions, since 1875.
+
+ The papers in your case, transmitted to the Department, show that
+ in twelve other instances you rescued persons from drowning. It
+ is regretted that as these rescues were effected prior to the
+ date of the Act of June 20, 1874, they cannot be recognized and
+ honored by the inscription upon the medal awarded you. It is,
+ however, proper that they should be remembered here, in
+ connection with the six deliverances which the medal aims to
+ commemorate, and that thus due acknowledgment should be made of
+ your gallant record as the preserver of eighteen human lives. No
+ record could be prouder, nor could any give you a better title to
+ the respect and gratitude of your fellow beings. In sending you
+ this token of the public appreciation of your noble courage and
+ humanity, it gives me the truest pleasure to add an expression of
+ my sense of your heroism, together with the hope that you may
+ long adorn the force with which you are connected and the
+ community which must rank you among its worthiest citizens.
+
+ I have the honor to be, very respectfully,
+ John SHERMAN,
+ _Secretary_.
+
+
+
+No. 85. (p. 453)
+PLATE LXXXV.
+
+
+_June 20, 1874._
+
+ Life Saving medal of the second class. United States of America.
+ [Rx]. In testimony of heroic deeds, etc.
+
+LIFE SAVING MEDAL OF THE SECOND CLASS.
+
+[_Saving Life from the Perils of the Sea._]
+
+LIFE SAVING MEDAL OF THE SECOND CLASS * UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. * A
+female figure hovering in the air, and saving a man from the deep.
+
+IN TESTIMONY OF HEROIC DEEDS IN SAVING LIFE FROM THE PERILS OF THE
+SEA. Within a wreath of laurel: ACT OF CONGRESS JUNE 20TH, 1874, and a
+vacant space for the name of the recipient.
+
+This medal, though not signed, is by Paquet.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.[133]
+
+ [Footnote 133: The act of Congress instituting this
+ medal is given under No. 84, page 441.]
+
+_John O. Philbrick and Otis N. Wheeler of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, for
+rescuing two men wrecked on Watts' Ledge, Maine, November 30, 1875.
+Awarded June 23, 1876._[134]
+
+ [Footnote 134: See report of the Life-Saving
+ Service, November 30, 1876, No. 84, page 441.]
+
+ To Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary
+ John O. PHILBRICK, Esq.,[135] Washington, D. C., July 22, 1876.
+ Cape Elizabeth, Maine.
+
+ [Footnote 135: A similar letter was sent to Otis N.
+ Wheeler.]
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a life-saving medal of
+ the second class, which has been awarded to you under authority
+ of the seventh section of the Act of Congress approved June 20,
+ 1874, in recognition of your services in saving the lives of two
+ men who were wrecked on Watts' Ledge, on the coast of Maine, on
+ the 30th of November, 1875.
+
+ In sending you this medal, the Department desires to express (p. 454)
+ its sense of the disinterestedness and zeal which marked your
+ gallant conduct in saving the lives referred to.
+
+ I have the honor to be, Sir, your obedient servant,
+ Lot M. MORRILL,
+ _Secretary_.
+
+ _____
+
+_Henry M. Lee and N. A. Petersen, Barnt Oleson and Anton Oleson, Henry
+Shark and John McKenna, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for saving Crew of
+the Barque "Tanner" on Lake Michigan, September 9, 1875. Awarded June
+11, 1877._[136]
+
+ [Footnote 136: See Report of the Life-Saving
+ Service, November 29, 1877, No. 84, page 441.]
+
+ To Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary,
+ Mr. Henry M. LEE,[137] Washington, D. C., July 31st, 1877.
+ Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
+
+ [Footnote 137: Similar letters were sent to N. A.
+ Petersen, Barnt Oleson, Anton Oleson, Henry Shark
+ and John McKenna.]
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a life-saving medal of
+ the second class, which has been awarded to you, under authority
+ of the seventh section of the Act of Congress approved June 20,
+ 1874, in recognition of your services in saving the lives of the
+ crew of the barque "Tanner," consisting of nine men, who were
+ wrecked near the entrance to the harbor of Milwaukee, Wisconsin,
+ on the 9th of September, 1875.
+
+ The ingenuity, skill and heroic daring displayed by you and your
+ companions in effecting the difficult and dangerous rescue of
+ these men upon the occasion referred to, is felt to merit the
+ highest commendation and to amply justify the award of this
+ medal.
+
+ I have the honor to be, Sir, very respectfully,
+ John SHERMAN,
+ _Secretary_.
+
+ _____
+
+_Captain Charles H. Smith, of the Light-House Tender "Rose," for
+rescuing a boy from drowning in the Christiana River, Wilmington,
+Delaware, September 17, 1877. Awarded November 23, 1877._
+
+ To Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary,
+ CAPTAIN CHARLES H. SMITH, Washington, D. C., March 12, 1878.
+ Master Light-House Tender "Rose,"
+ Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a life-saving medal of
+ the second class, which has been awarded to you, under authority
+ of the seventh section of the Act of Congress approved June (p. 455)
+ 20, 1874, in recognition of your services in rescuing from
+ drowning, on the 11th of September, 1877, a boy named Thomas
+ Walsh, who had fallen from a wharf at Wilmington, Delaware, into
+ the Christiana river.
+
+ The witnesses of the affair testify that you plunged from the
+ deck of your vessel in your clothes and, under circumstances of
+ peculiar danger, seized the drowning lad as he was sinking for
+ probably the last time, handed him up to the people on the wharf,
+ and then swam back to your vessel. In this perilous action your
+ modesty was no less conspicuous than your bravery, and in
+ addition to the pleasure I have in sending you the medal which
+ commemorates your gallant behavior, there is the equal pleasure
+ of knowing that the Department is also honored by such conduct on
+ the part of one of its officers.
+
+ Very respectfully,
+ John SHERMAN,
+ _Secretary_.
+
+ _____
+
+_Edward Nordall, seaman on board the revenue steamer "Tench Coxe" for
+rescuing an unknown man from drowning in the Delaware River, June 3,
+1877. Awarded November 23, 1877._
+
+ Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary,
+ Washington, D. C., March 12, 1878.
+ To
+ Edward NORDALL,
+ Seaman on board the revenue steamer "Tench Coxe,"
+ Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a life-saving medal of
+ the second class, which has been awarded to you, under authority
+ of the seventh section of the Act of Congress approved June 20,
+ 1874, in recognition of your services in rescuing an unknown man
+ from drowning in the Delaware river, on the 3d of June, 1877.
+
+ The hardy courage and humanity of your action in springing
+ overboard in a squall of violent wind and rain, at the peril of
+ your life, and saving this stranger, cannot fail to be
+ appreciated, and fully deserves the public recognition and esteem
+ which the award of a medal to you, involves. In sending you this
+ testimonial to your brave and humane conduct, I am deeply
+ gratified that it was so well won, and by a seaman of the revenue
+ marine.
+
+ Very respectfully,
+ John SHERMAN,
+ _Secretary_.
+
+ _____
+
+_Malachi Corbell, Keeper of Life Saving Station No. 5, District (p. 456)
+No. 6, for rescuing two men from a capsized boat, near Caffrey's
+Inlet, North Carolina, November 14, 1875. Awarded November 23, 1877._
+
+ To Treasury Department, Office of the Secretary
+ CAPTAIN MALACHI CORBELL, Washington, D. C., March 12, 1878.
+ Keeper of Life Saving Station No. 5,
+ District No. 6, Caffrey's Inlet, N. C.
+
+ Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a life-saving medal of
+ the second class, which has been awarded to you, under authority
+ of the seventh section of the Act of Congress approved June 20,
+ 1874, in recognition of your services in saving the lives of
+ Willis Westcott and James Gray, near Caffrey's Inlet, North
+ Carolina, on the 25th of November, 1875.
+
+ It appears that these two men were clinging to a capsized boat in
+ a heavy sea, two of their companions having already been drowned,
+ and that you went out to their relief, and succeeded in bringing
+ them to shore in an exhausted condition, at the peril of your own
+ life, your boat being also capsized in the effort. Such an
+ action, as marked by manly energy, courage and humanity, denotes
+ no less the worthy keeper of a Life-Saving Station than a good
+ and gallant man, and I have peculiar pleasure in transmitting to
+ you this medal as the memorial of noble conduct and character.
+
+ Very respectfully,
+ John SHERMAN,
+ _Secretary_.
+
+
+
+No. 86. (p. 457)
+PLATE LXXXVI.
+
+
+_June 20, 1874._
+
+ John Horn, Jr. [Rx]. By act of Congress June 20th 1874. In
+ recognition of his heroic exploits, etc.
+
+JOHN HORN, JR.
+
+[_Heroic Exploits._]
+
+JOHN HORN, JR. Undraped bust of John Horn, Jr., facing the left. C.
+BARBER.
+
+BY ACT OF CONGRESS JUNE 20{TH}, 1874. Within a wreath of laurel: IN
+RECOGNITION OF HIS HEROIC EXPLOITS IN RESCUING MEN WOMEN & CHILDREN
+FROM DROWNING IN DETROIT RIVER.
+
+
+JOHN HORN, Jr., was born at Sidmouth, Devonshire, England, September
+7, 1843. He was brought when quite young to Detroit, Michigan, where
+his parents settled, and he is at present engaged with his father in
+the boat business, they owning one ferry and two tug-boats. He has
+been living, since 1863, on the dock at the foot of Woodward Avenue,
+Detroit, opposite Windsor, in Canada West, and the most dangerous
+place on the river. Since May, 1863, he has saved more than one
+hundred persons from drowning, distinguishing himself especially
+during the great fire at the Detroit and Milwaukee railroad depot, on
+the night of April 11, 1866, when he rescued nine persons from the
+water. The citizens of Detroit presented him with a gold medal in
+1869, and the Congress of the United States of America voted him
+another in 1874. He is still living.
+
+ _____
+
+ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 458)
+
+_Act of Congress Voting a Medal to John Horn, Jr._
+
+ _Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
+ United States of America in Congress assembled_: That the
+ President of the United States be authorized and directed to
+ cause to be prepared and presented to John Horn, junior, of
+ Detroit, Michigan, a gold medal, with appropriate devices and
+ inscriptions, in recognition and in commemoration of his heroic
+ and humane exploits in rescuing men, women and children from
+ drowning in the Detroit river.
+
+ Approved June 20, 1874.
+
+ _____
+
+_John Horn, Jr., to Moses W. Field._
+
+ To the Honorable
+ Moses W. FIELD, Detroit, February 22, 1874.
+ House of Representatives, Washington, D. C.
+
+ Dear Sir: I have never desired a public statement of the service
+ which, under God, I have been able to render in saving human
+ life, but as you have asked me to send you a list of the men,
+ women and children whom I have rescued from drowning, I will do
+ so, so far as I can from memory. I have never kept a record of
+ the names, and the number is so great that you will excuse me if
+ I leave some unmentioned.
+
+ I think I have altogether saved more than one hundred human
+ beings, but I take no credit about this matter, and I have never
+ regretted doing what I have done in any case, although I have had
+ at times to keep my bed for many weeks on account of the exposure
+ in the cold weather. It is well for me that I had a good mother
+ to take care of me at such times of sickness. On the 21st of May,
+ 1863, I saved Mr. Manning, of Windsor; on the 7th of July, 1865,
+ I saved Mr. George Taylor, of New York State; he was very near
+ dead when I got him on the wharf; October 10, 1865, I saved a
+ child of Mr. T. Gorman of Adrian; she was about five years old,
+ and was near drowned when I got her out; December 12, 1865, I
+ saved a son of Mr. Yates, who kept a clothing store on Jefferson
+ avenue. The night was very cold, a high wind was blowing at the
+ time, and he was very near dead when we reached the wharf.
+
+ April 11, 1866, was the worst night I ever had. It will be ever
+ memorable as the night of the great conflagration at the Detroit
+ and Milwaukee Railroad depot, when sixteen poor fellows were
+ drowned. I rescued nine, and then became so exhausted that I
+ could not swim, and had to abandon them to their fate. I got a
+ very bad cold and lay in bed two weeks, but that was nothing in
+ comparison to the good accomplished. July 25, 1866, I saved Mr.
+ Joseph Noble, of Windsor, and I believe you were there at the
+ time. He was once engineer on the Great Western Railroad. (p. 459)
+ You know he came near drowning me in his struggles in the
+ water, at which time I received several internal injuries.
+ April 7, 1867, I saved the son of Mr. C. Meyers, who lived in
+ Mullet street. He was a boy about twelve years old. June 14,
+ 1867, I saved the daughter of Mr. Andrew Nourse, of Cleveland.
+ She was going on board the ferry-boat with her mother and some
+ other ladies, when she fell off the plank. When I got to the
+ wharf she was going out of sight for the last time, and I plunged
+ in and brought her to the surface. September 15, 1867, I saved a
+ colored man who was a deck hand on the propeller Meteor. He
+ kicked me about in the water terribly, for drowning men are
+ always crazy. November 2, 1867, I saved Mr. David Miller, the man
+ who drove a wagon for Hull Brothers, storekeepers on Munroe
+ avenue. May 10, 1868, I saved Mr. Robert Sinton, known as "Free
+ Press Bob." You know he used to be a reporter for the "Free
+ Press." And in his haste to get news, he fell in, and I got him
+ out.
+
+ A few nights after that I saved Mr. Steele, who used to keep a
+ store on Michigan avenue. He was on the ferry-boat with his wife;
+ he had a very spirited horse, and was holding him by the head
+ when the boat struck the wharf. The horse jumped and threw him
+ into the river, when the current swept him under the wharf. I
+ jumped in and got him out all right. October 4, 1868, I saved a
+ daughter of Mr. McDonald, of Windsor. May 11, 1869, I saved Mr.
+ Flattery, one of the Flattery Brothers who kept a furniture store
+ on Woodward avenue. He was a heavy man; when I got hold of him he
+ was near gone, and I came near losing my own life in getting him
+ out. June 21, 1870, I saved a man called Mr. George Brodier. I
+ was eating dinner at the time, when some persons came running in
+ after me, saying, "there is a man in the river." I ran out and
+ jumped into the river, and as soon as I got near him he clutched
+ me like a vice and took me under water twice. When I came to the
+ top the last time my father handed me a large pole, which I
+ caught and that saved me. He was a powerful man, and kicked and
+ struggled so hard that he made my legs black and blue for many
+ months.
+
+ My mother goes to the edge of the wharf with me very often,
+ when I jump in; but when she sees persons struggling in the water
+ and drowning she never holds me back. August 24, 1871, I saved
+ the daughter of Mr. A. Wilson of Milwaukee. March 4, 1872, I
+ saved a colored man by the name of George Wilkes; he fell off the
+ wharf while under the influence of liquor; but I think he has
+ been a sober man ever since. July 4, 1873, I saved the daughter
+ of Mr. F. Barlow, a butcher, who keeps a stall in the market. She
+ was going on board the ferry-boat Detroit with her mother and
+ some other ladies; the crowd was very great, being the Fourth of
+ July, and although her mother held her by the hand, the crowd
+ surged, and she was crowded off the plank, and fell into the
+ river. There were about five hundred people on the wharf at the
+ time, and they were all staring at the poor girl struggling in
+ the water, not one of them daring to go to her rescue. I was in
+ the house when some one came to give the alarm, and when I got
+ out there I could just see her dress as she was going out of
+ sight, four or five feet below the surface. I jumped in and
+ caught her, and when I got out on the top of the wharf with her
+ the people gave me three cheers. March 6, 1873, I saved a young
+ lady called Miss Louise McKenzie. This was the closest call I (p. 460)
+ ever had for my life. I was in the water about seventeen minutes,
+ and the river being full of floating ice at the time, I was
+ nearer dead than alive when I got out. Four men carried me into
+ the house, and they rubbed me with hot whisky for over four hours
+ before circulation was restored to its normal condition. This
+ severe exposure made me sick, and it was over three months before
+ the right feeling was in my hands.
+
+ You will remember this incident, for you came to me when I was
+ unwell. I regret very much at this time I lost the beautiful
+ medal presented me by the citizens, and I think you were one of
+ the gentlemen connected with its presentation. I have been
+ informed that I would receive a medal from the British
+ Parliament, but it has not come. I don't ask any.
+
+ I saved a poor unfortunate individual last month, when I took a
+ severe cold, and as I was lying in bed reading the proceedings of
+ Congress, I saw something about an appropriation for medals to
+ persons for saving life on the seashore, and I thought then that
+ some gentleman would be very likely to remember also those who
+ saved life on the northern lakes and rivers. There are many other
+ cases which I don't mention, as I have not got their names. You
+ must know yourself of a great many, as your place of business and
+ warehouse are near by, and I recollect seeing you several times
+ when rescuing people from a watery grave. Wishing you and your
+ family good health, I remain, very truly yours,
+
+ John Horn, Jr.
+
+
+THE END.
+
+
+[Illustrations: Plates I to LXXXVI]
+
+
+
+
+INDEX. (p. 460)
+
+
+ A
+
+ ABERCROMBIE, JOHN JOSEPH, 297.
+ ACADEMY OF INSCRIPTIONS AND BELLES-LETTRES, Paris, xi, xiii,
+ xvi, xix, xx, xxxv, xxxvi, xxxviii, xliv, 2, 9, 40, 49, 97,
+ 112.
+ ACADEMY OF PAINTING AND SCULPTURE, Paris, xli, xliv, xlv, 2.
+ ACADEMY OF SCIENCES, Paris, xlv.
+ ACADEMY, ROYAL, Paris, xi, xxiii, xlv.
+ ADAIR, JOHN, 260.
+ ADAMS, DAVID, 321.
+ ADAMS, JOHN, 3, 5, 6, 58, 73, 75, 84, 85, 117, 127, 132, 134,
+ 270.
+ ADAMS, JOHN QUINCY, 160, 267, 269, 270.
+ ADDICKS, MR., 346.
+ AIKEN, WILLIAM, 423, 425, 426.
+ AITKIN, MARTIN J., 237.
+ ALARM, Corvette, 303.
+ ALBURTIS, CAPTAIN, 306.
+ ALEXANDER, EDMUND B., 312, 313, 319, 320.
+ ALEXANDER, MAJOR, Tennessee Volunteers, 297.
+ ALFRED, Ship of war, 98.
+ ALLEN, CAPTAIN, Tennessee Volunteers, 294.
+ ALLEN, DOCTOR, 222, 231.
+ ALLEN, FREDERICK P., 237.
+ ALLEN, GENERAL, Kentucky Volunteers, 260, 261.
+ ALLEN, G. W., 285, 297.
+ ALLEN, LIEUTENANT, Tennessee Volunteers, 297.
+ ALLEN, WILLIAM HENRY, 164.
+ ALLIANCE, Ship of war, 99, 101, 102, 104, 106, 108, 112.
+ ALMONTE, JUAN NEPOMUCENO, 313.
+ AMERICAN REPUBLIC, Statue of, 267.
+ AMOUREUX, MR., 112.
+ AMPUDIA, PEDRO DE, 296.
+ ANDERSON, JAMES W., 320.
+ ANDERSON, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, Tennessee Volunteers, 297.
+ ANDERSON, SAMUEL S., 326, 329.
+ ANDRE, JOHN, MAJOR, 37, 38, 39.
+ ANDREWS, COLONEL, Voltigeurs, 328.
+ ANDREWS, GEORGE P., 326, 329.
+ ANDRIEU, BERTRAND, x, 266.
+ ANGOULEME, DUKE D', Medal, 267.
+ ANTROBUS, MR., 370, 371.
+ APPLING, DANIEL, 235, 237.
+ APPOMATTOX COURT HOUSE, 371.
+ ARCHER, MR., 15, 19, 21.
+ ARGUS, Brig of war, 137, 141, 142, 144, 146, 147, 148, 149.
+ ARIEL, Schooner, 178, 179, 180, 261.
+ ARMISTEAD, LIEUTENANT, 328.
+ ARMS OF THE UNITED STATES, 113, 115.
+ ARMSTRONG, ADJUTANT, 297.
+ ARMSTRONG, LIEUTENANT, Revolution, 33, 35.
+ ARMSTRONG, LIEUTENANT, War of 1812, 21.
+ ARMSTRONG, JOHN, 205, 208, 211, 214, 227, 231, 234, 255, 256.
+ ARMSTRONG, MAJOR, of North Carolina, 53.
+ ARMY MEDAL OF HONOR, 368, 369.
+ ARNOLD, BENEDICT, 10, 26, 37, 38, 39, 41, 49.
+ ARTHUR, PRINCE OF GREAT BRITAIN, 422.
+ ARTIMESIA, Schooner, 357.
+ ASH, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, of North Carolina, 53.
+ ASPINWALL, THOMAS, 213, 214, 228.
+ AUGUSTA, Ship of war, 26.
+ AUGUSTE, M., 124, 125.
+ AULICK, JOHN H., 308, 309, 310.
+ AUSTIN, CAPTAIN, 206, 207, 211.
+ AUSTIN, MAJOR, 213.
+ AUSTRIA, EMPEROR OF, Medal, 267, 357, 359.
+ AVERILL, HENRY K., 237.
+ AYLWIN, J. C., 158.
+
+
+ B
+
+
+ BABBITT, MR., 277.
+ BACKUS, ELECTUS, 293.
+ BADGE, CAMPAIGN, 430.
+ BAINBRIDGE, HENRY, 297.
+ BAINBRIDGE, JOSEPH, 138, 139.
+ BAINBRIDGE, WILLIAM, 143, 150, 166, 170, 188, 249.
+ BAIRD, ABSALOM, 403.
+ BAKER, EDWARD DICKENSON, 312.
+ BAKER'S CREEK, BATTLE OF, 385.
+ BALDWIN, LIEUTENANT, 308.
+ BALDWIN, MIDSHIPMAN, 192.
+ BALL, COLONEL, 34.
+ BALL, LIEUTENANT COLONEL, 250, 261, 262, 263, 264.
+ BALLARD, ADJUTANT, 213.
+ BANCROFT, DR., 112.
+ BANKHEAD, JAMES, 308.
+ BANKS, NATHANIEL PRENTISS, 376, 381.
+ BANNEVILLE, MARQUIS DE, xlix.
+ BARBER, C., 457.
+ BARBER, CHARLES E., 434.
+ BARBER, WILLIAM, 29, 418, 419, 434.
+ BARBOUR, PHILIP N., 294.
+ BARCLAY, R. H., 176, 180, 183.
+ BARCLAY, THOMAS, 129.
+ BARLOW, F., 459.
+ BARNARD, CAPTAIN, Voltigeurs, 328.
+ BARREAULT, CAPTAIN, 129.
+ BARRON, JAMES, 164.
+ BARRON, SAMUEL, 142, 143, 146, 149, 154.
+ BARRY, WILLIAM TAYLOR, 260.
+ BARTHELEMY, ABBE, xii, xiv, xxxvi, xxxvii, xxxix, xl, xliii, 119.
+ BASHAW OF TRIPOLI, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147.
+ BASTILLE, TAKING OF THE, Medal, 266.
+ BATEMAN, SMITH, 237.
+ BATES, ADJUTANT, 217.
+ BATH, ORDER OF THE, 422.
+ BAXTER, LIEUTENANT COMMANDER, New York Volunteers, 321.
+ BAYLOR, CYRUS A., 273.
+ BEALE, PURSER, 192.
+ BEAN, ENSIGN, 221.
+ BEAN, HUGH, 443.
+ BEAUREGARD, PIERRE GUSTAVE TOUTANT, 316, 323, 325, 334, 381.
+ BEEDLE, LIEUTENANT COLONEL, 213.
+ BELKNAP, WILLIAM GOLDSMITH, 221, 231, 285, 298, 343, 346.
+ BELMONT, BATTLE OF, 371.
+ BELTON, LIEUTENANT, 231.
+ BELTON, LIEUTENANT COLONEL, 318.
+ BENHAM, HENRY W., 346.
+ BENJAMIN, CALVIN, 329, 331.
+ BENN, ENSIGN, 230.
+ BENNINGTON, BATTLE OF, 10.
+ BERMUDA HUNDRED, BATTLE OF, 431, 432.
+ BETOUW, J. IN DE, 63.
+ BIDDLE, CHARLES JOHN, 328.
+ BIDDLE, JAMES, 162, 249, 250, 251, 252.
+ BIDDLE, THOMAS, 211, 228, 229, 230.
+ BIG BLACK BRIDGE, BATTLE AT, 385, 386, 391.
+ BIGELOW, J. P., 436.
+ BIGGER, CAPTAIN, 217.
+ BILLARDERIE D'ANGEVILLER, COUNT DE LA, xlv, xlvi.
+ BIRD, GUSTAVUS A., 237.
+ BIRD, LIEUTENANT, 230.
+ BIRDSALL, CAPTAIN, 229, 231.
+ BISHOP'S PALACE, Monterey, 291, 292, 295.
+ BISSEL, LIEUTENANT, 213.
+ BISSELL, WILLIAM H., 338, 340, 345.
+ BLAIR, FRANCIS PRESTON, JR., 382, 383, 384, 385, 401.
+ BLAKE, ENSIGN, 230.
+ BLAKE, JACOB E., 286.
+ BLAKE, LIEUTENANT, Navy, 138.
+ BLAKELEY, JOHNSTON, 200, 201, 202.
+ BLANC, CHARLES, xxii.
+ BLEIL, PHILIP C., 452.
+ BLEISWIJK, P. V., 84, 85.
+ BLISS, WILLIAM WALLACE SMITH, 285, 298, 299, 346, 347.
+ BLOSSOM, ELISHA, 173.
+ BLYTHE, SAMUEL, 173, 174, 175.
+ BLOUNT, GOVERNOR, 243.
+ BLOUNT, THOMAS, 53.
+ BONAPARTE, NAPOLEON, 41, 267.
+ BONHOMME RICHARD, Ship of war, xxviii, xlviii, 97, 99, 100, 101,
+ 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 112.
+ BONNE CITOYENNE, Ship of war, 186, 187.
+ BOOTH, LIEUTENANT, 162.
+ BOREEL, W., 63, 71.
+ BOSTON, TAKING OF, xi, xxii, xxviii, xxxv, xxxvi, xxxix, xlvii,
+ xlviii, xlix, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 277.
+ BOUILLE, GENERAL DE, 24.
+ BOULTON, MATTHEW, xxxi.
+ BOUTWELL, GEORGE S., 435.
+ BOWDOIN COLLEGE, 351.
+ BOWEN, ISAAC, 297.
+ BOWEN, JOHN S., 392.
+ BOWLES, COLONEL, Indiana Volunteers, 338, 345.
+ BOWMAN, LIEUTENANT, 220, 231.
+ BOYD, HANNIBAL, 187.
+ BOYD, JOHN PARKER, 272.
+ BOXER, Brig of war, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 181, 202.
+ BRADDOCK, EDWARD, 3, 9, 41.
+ BRADFORD, CAPTAIN, 35.
+ BRADFORD, CAPTAIN, 213.
+ BRADFORD, EDWARD A., 423.
+ BRADFORD, MAJOR, Mississippi Volunteers, 345.
+ BRAGG, BRAXTON, 292, 294, 295, 297, 338, 340, 341, 342, 344, 397,
+ 401, 404, 405.
+ BRANDYWINE, BATTLE OF THE, 14, 23, 26, 49.
+ BRANNON, COLONEL, 43.
+ BRANT, ENSIGN, 213.
+ BRENT, THOMAS L., 344.
+ BREVOORT, CAPTAIN, 179.
+ BRINOT, LIEUTENANT, 213.
+ BRIT, ABBREVIATION OF, ON BRITISH COINS, 171.
+ BRODIER, GEORGE, 459.
+ BROGUE, COUNT DE, 117.
+ BROGLIE, DUKE OF, 116.
+ BROGLIE, MARSHALL DE, 117.
+ BROKE, PHILIP BOWES VERE, 186.
+ BROOKE, GEORGE MERCER, 212, 213, 216, 217, 221, 232.
+ BROOKES, CAPTAIN, 44.
+ BROOKS, BARTEMUS, 237.
+ BROOKS, CAPTAIN, 237.
+ BROOKS, HORACE, 326, 329.
+ BROOKS, JOHN, 177, 179.
+ BROOKS, MASTER, 142.
+ BROOKS, WILLIAM T. H., 316.
+ BROTIER, ABBE, xxxvi, xxxvii, xxxix, xl, xliii.
+ BROWN, FORT, 234.
+ BROWN, JACOB, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212,
+ 213, 214, 216.
+ BROWN, LIEUTENANT, 217.
+ BROWN, LIEUTENANT, 23d Regiment, 221, 231.
+ BROWN, MAJOR, 284.
+ BROWN, ORLANDO, 348.
+ BROWN, S. N., 354, 355, 357, 358.
+ BROWNE, CAPTAIN, 53.
+ BROWNLOW, ACTING-LIEUTENANT, 252.
+ BROUGHTON, CAPTAIN, 228, 230.
+ BRUFF, J. GOLDSBOROUGH, 418, 419.
+ BRUM, SAILING-MASTER, 192.
+ BRYAN, FRANCIS T., 344.
+ BUCHANAN, CAPTAIN, 43.
+ BUCHANAN, JAMES, 304, 361, 362.
+ BUCKNER, SIMON BOLIVAR, 373, 374, 401.
+ BUEL, CAPTAIN, 217.
+ BUELL, DOCTOR, 413.
+ BUENA VISTA, Battle Of, 281, 299, 304, 317, 336, 337, 338, 339,
+ 340, 341, 342, 343, 344, 345, 346, 347.
+ BUNKER HILL, 4.
+ BURBANK, JOHN G., 284.
+ BURGESS, MR., 346.
+ BURGOYNE, JOHN, xxii, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 86.
+ BURKE, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 413.
+ BURKE, MARTIN J., 320.
+ BURNET, MAJOR, 35.
+ BURNETT, COLONEL, New York Volunteers, 321.
+ BURNSIDE, AMBROSE EVERETT, 395, 397, 398, 399, 404, 405.
+ BURR, MAJOR, 217.
+ BURROWS, WILLIAM, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175.
+ BURY, LIEUTENANT, 202.
+ BUTLER, BENJAMIN F., 432.
+ BUTLER, PIERCE M., 321.
+ BUTLER, THOMAS, 20.
+ BUTLER, WILLIAM ORLANDO, 290, 292, 293, 296, 297.
+ BUTTERWORTH, MR., 299.
+ BUTTLER, CAPTAIN, 259, 260.
+ BUSH, W. S., 154, 158, 159.
+ BUSHNELL, CHARLES I., xxix.
+ BUSHNEL, LIEUTENANT, 19th Regiment, 221.
+ BUSHNELL, LIEUTENANT, 21st Regiment, 231.
+ BUSKIRK, COLONEL, 34, 35.
+
+
+ C
+
+
+ CADWALADER, GEORGE, 315, 316, 317, 319, 324, 327, 328, 329, 330,
+ 331.
+ CALDWELL, JAMES R., 136, 141.
+ CALDWELL, MAJOR, Voltigeurs, 328.
+ CALDWELL, SAMUEL, 260, 261.
+ CALEDONIA, Brig of War, 154, 180.
+ CALHOUN, LIEUTENANT, Mississippi Volunteers, 297.
+ CALMES, MARQUIS, 261, 262, 263, 264.
+ CAMDEN, BATTLE OF, 9.
+ CAMP, MAJOR, 207.
+ CAMPBELL, HUGH F., 149.
+ CAMPBELL, JOHN B., 207.
+ CAMPBELL, LIEUTENANT, 345.
+ CAMPBELL LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 53, 55.
+ CAMPBELL, WILLIAM B., 297.
+ CANALIZO, GENERAL, 313.
+ CANTINE LIEUTENANT, 221.
+ CANTY, WILLIAM, 331.
+ CAPITOL AT WASHINGTON, 270.
+ CAPRON, E. A., 320.
+ CARDEN, JOHN, 163, 164.
+ CAREY, MATTHEW, xxxiv.
+ CARLETON, SIR GUY, 12.
+ CARLIN, WILLIAM P., 402.
+ CARMICK, DANIEL, 243.
+ CARR, EUGENE A., 380, 385.
+ CARR, SAILING-MASTER, 202.
+ CARROLL, WILLIAM, 241.
+ CASE, JOSEPH, 436.
+ CASEY, SILAS, 327, 328.
+ CASS, LEWIS, 256, 259, 260, 261, 262, 263, 264.
+ CASSIN, STEPHEN, 190, 191, 195, 196.
+ CATLETT, CAPTAIN, 34.
+ CATHERINE II, EMPRESS OF RUSSIA, 98.
+ CAZENEAU, CAPTAIN, 4.
+ CENTENNIAL MEDALS, 438, 439, 440.
+ CERF, Ship of War, 99, 100, 101, 102.
+ CERRO GORDO, BATTLE OF, 225, 304, 305, 311, 312, 313, 332.
+ CHADBOURNE, THEODORE L., 284.
+ CHADS, LIEUTENANT, 169.
+ CHALMERS, J. M., 60.
+ CHAMBERS, JOHN, 260.
+ CHAMBERS, MAJOR, 273.
+ CHAMBERS, MAJOR, 4th Regiment of Rifles, 213.
+ CHAMILLARD, COLONEL DE, 100, 103, 105, 107, 108.
+ CHAMPION'S HILL, BATTLE OF, 385.
+ CHAMPLAIN, LAKE, VICTORY OF, 189, 190, 191, 192, 193, 194, 195,
+ 196, 233, 236.
+ CHAMPLIN, STEPHEN, 179.
+ CHANDLER, E., 321.
+ CHANDLER, J. G., 413, 416.
+ CHAPMAN, CAPTAIN, 345.
+ CHAPMAN, WILLIAM, 328.
+ CHAPMAN, MR., 277, 288, 289.
+ CHAPULTEPEC, BATTLE OF, 225, 304, 326, 327, 328, 329, 330, 332,
+ 333, 334, 371.
+ CHARLES X, KING OF FRANCE, 267.
+ CHARLESTON, OCCUPATION OF, 14.
+ CHARTRES, DUKE DE, 6.
+ CHASE, CAPTAIN, 15th Infantry, 328.
+ CHATFIELD, LIEUTENANT, 217.
+ CHATTANOOGA, 370, 371, 394, 395, 396, 397, 398, 399, 400, 401,
+ 402, 403, 404, 405.
+ CHAUMONT, M. DE, 107, 109.
+ CHAUNCEY, ISAAC, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 149, 183.
+ CHESAPEAKE, Frigate, 186.
+ CHEW, T. S., 158.
+ CHICAMAUGA, 400, 401, 402, 403.
+ CHILDS, GENERAL, 258, 260, 262.
+ CHILDS, THOMAS, 230, 285, 286, 312, 313.
+ CHILTON, ROBERT H., 346.
+ CHINA, EMPEROR OF, xix.
+ CHIPPEWA, BATTLE OF, ix, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 215, 219,
+ 223, 224.
+ CHIPPEWAY, Schooner, 180.
+ CHOCTAW NATION, 114.
+ CHUNN, CAPTAIN, 221, 231.
+ CHURCHILL, SYLVESTER, 216, 217, 345, 346.
+ CHURCHILL, WILLIAM H., 285.
+ CHURUBUSCO, BATTLE OF, 225, 304, 305, 317, 318, 320, 330, 332,
+ 333, 334.
+ CINCINNATI, ORDER OF THE, 13, 15.
+ CITTERS, W. VAN, 64.
+ CISSNEY, ENSIGN, 231.
+ CISSNEY, LIEUTENANT, 221.
+ CLAIBORNE, LIEUTENANT, 300.
+ CLARK, F. G., MIDSHIPMAN, 301, 302.
+ CLARKE, JOHN, 178, 179.
+ CLARKE, MAJOR, 33, 34, 35.
+ CLARKE, NEWMAN S., 318, 319, 327, 328, 329, 330.
+ CLAXTON, ALEXANDER, 162.
+ CLAXTON, THOMAS JR., 177.
+ CLAY, HENRY, JR. 342, 343.
+ CLEMONS, AI J., 442, 445.
+ CLEMONS, HUBBARD M., 442, 445.
+ CLEMONS, LUCIAN M., 442, 445.
+ CLIFFORD, JOHN H., 423.
+ CLINTON, SIR HENRY, 18.
+ COCHRANE, LIEUTENANT, 284.
+ COFFEE, JOHN, 241.
+ COFFEE, MAJOR, 346.
+ COFFIN, GEORGE, 188.
+ COLUMBIA COLLEGE, 225.
+ COLUMBUS, PAINTING OF, 406.
+ COMSTOCK, C. B., 389.
+ CONFIANCE, Ship of war, 191, 192.
+ CONANT, CHARLES F., 442, 443.
+ CONGRESS, LIBRARY OF, xxviii.
+ CONGRESS, Ship of war, 142.
+ CONLEY, JAMES, 443.
+ CONNER, DAVID, 187, 188, 252, 305, 306, 308.
+ CONNER, PATRICK E., 338, 345.
+ CONSTELLATION, Ship of war, 128, 129, 130, 132, 142, 149, 194.
+ CONSTITUTION, Frigate, 137, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145,
+ 146, 147, 149, 153, 154, 155, 157, 158, 159, 166, 167, 169,
+ 170, 181, 245, 246, 247, 248.
+ CONSUELO, Schooner, WRECK OF, 442, 445.
+ CONTEE, LIEUTENANT, 159.
+ CONTRERAS, BATTLE OF, 225, 304, 315, 316, 317, 318, 320, 332,
+ 333, 334.
+ CONWAY, D., 379.
+ COOKE, LIEUTENANT, Mississippi Regiment, 297.
+ COOPER, CAPTAIN, Mississippi Regiment, 297.
+ COOPER, MIDSHIPMAN, 187.
+ COOPER, S., 412.
+ CORBELL, MALACHI, 456.
+ CORNECK, H. D., 170.
+ CORNWALLIS, CHARLES, LORD, xxii, 9, 43, 86, 87, 89, 90.
+ COSZTA, MARTIN, 352, 353, 354, 355, 356, 357, 358, 359, 360.
+ COTTINEAU, CAPTAIN DE, 100, 102, 103, 106, 108.
+ COUCH, DARIUS N., 344.
+ COUDRAY, M. DU, 25.
+ COULSON, SAMUEL, 188.
+ COUNTESS OF SCARBOROUGH, Ship, CAPTURE OF, 108.
+ COWPENS, VICTORY OF THE, xiii, xxi, xxviii, xxxv, xxxviii,
+ xl, xli, xlii, xliii, xliv, xlviii, xlix, 2, 40, 41, 42, 43,
+ 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 277.
+ CRABTREE, E., 443, 444.
+ CRAIG, HENRY KNOX, 298, 346.
+ CRAIG, SURGEON, 298, 346.
+ CRANDALL, ALBERT, 435.
+ CRANDALL, JARED S., 434, 435, 436.
+ CRANE, LIEUTENANT, 141.
+ CRAWFORD, LIEUTENANT, 213.
+ CREIGHTON, CAPTAIN, ix, 412, 413.
+ CREIGHTON, MASTER'S MATE, 145.
+ CRITTENDEN, JOHN JORDON, 260.
+ CRITTENDEN, THOMAS L., 346.
+ CROCKER, MARCELLUS M., 384, 385.
+ CROMWELL, LIEUTENANT, 237.
+ CROSBY, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 216, 217.
+ CROSBY, J. SCHUYLER, 447, 448, 449, 450.
+ CROGHAN, GEORGE, 272, 273, 274, 298.
+ CROSS, P. F., 352, 353.
+ CROSSMAN, CAPTAIN, 285.
+ CRUMP, CAPTAIN, 35.
+ CULLUM, GEORGE WASHINGTON, 372.
+ CUMMING, ENSIGN, 221, 230.
+ CUNNINGHAM, MAJOR, 43.
+ CUSHMAN, LIEUTENANT, 230.
+ CYANE, Frigate, 245, 246, 247, 248.
+
+
+ D
+
+
+ DACIER, M., xiii, xvi, xxxiv, xxxvi, xxxix, xli, xlii, xliii.
+ DACRES, JAMES A., 153, 154, 158.
+ DALE, LIEUTENANT, 105.
+ DALE, RICHARD, 163.
+ DALIBA, CAPTAIN, 207.
+ DALRYMPLE, JOSEPH, 188.
+ DANA, CHARLES A., 397, 398.
+ DANSLOW, CHARLES, 443.
+ DARING, Brig of war, 303.
+ DARTMOUTH COLLEGE, 116, 219.
+ DAVIES, THOMAS ALFRED, 404.
+ DAVIS, CAPTAIN, 346.
+ DAVIS, DANIEL, 216.
+ DAVIS, LIEUTENANT, Rifles, 312.
+ DAVIS, JEFFERSON, 297, 338, 344.
+ DAVIS, JEFFERSON C., 401.
+ DAYTON, WILLIAM LEWIS, xlvii, xlviii, xlix, 1.
+ DEAN, JOHN, 443, 444.
+ DEARBORN, HENRY, 224.
+ DECATUR, JAMES, 136, 138, 140.
+ DECATUR, STEPHEN, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 147,
+ 149, 154, 163, 164, 165, 186, 189, 246.
+ DEDEM, F. G. VAN, 84, 85.
+ DELAPIERRE, AID DE-CAMP, 217.
+ DENHON, SERGEANT-MAJOR, 230.
+ DENISON, E. F. R., 436.
+ DENMONS, CAPTAIN, 208.
+ DENT, JOHN HERBERT, 138, 139, 142, 144, 146.
+ DEPUIS, M., xliii.
+ DEPUY, M., xxxvi, xxxix.
+ DERBY, GEORGE H., 312.
+ DE RUSSY, RENE E., 237.
+ DES BREQUIGNY, M., xxxvii, xl.
+ DESHA, JOSEPH, 258, 259, 260, 262.
+ DETROIT, Brig of war, 154.
+ DETROIT, Ship of war, 180.
+ DETROIT, SURRENDER OF, 261.
+ DEXTER, SAMUEL, 113.
+ DICKENSON, CAPTAIN, 249, 251.
+ DICKENSON, LIEUTENANT COLONEL, South Carolina Volunteers, 306,
+ 321.
+ DICKERSON, JOHN S., 448.
+ DICKINSON COLLEGE, 361.
+ DILWORTH, RANKIN, 294.
+ DIMICK, JUSTIN, 316, 320.
+ DIPLOMATIC MEDAL, xxix, xxx, 41, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120,
+ 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126.
+ DIX, ROGER S., 346.
+ DOBBIN, ADJUTANT, 217.
+ DOBBIN, COLONEL, 210.
+ DOBBIN, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 216, 217, 218.
+ DOBBINS, LIEUTENANT, 3d Infantry, 284.
+ DOLMAN, JOHN, 443.
+ DONALDSON, JAMES LOWRY, 297, 342, 344.
+ DO-NE-HO-GA-WA (GENERAL E. S. PARKER), 114.
+ DONELSON, FORT, 370, 371, 372, 373, 374, 375.
+ DORSEY, JOHN SWORD, 136, 141.
+ DOUGLAS, GEORGE, 245, 246, 248.
+ DOUGLASS, LIEUTENANT, 230.
+ DOWNIE, GEORGE, 189, 193, 195.
+ DOWNING, CAPTAIN, Mississippi Volunteers, 297.
+ DOX, MAJOR, 217.
+ DRUM, SIMON H., 317, 324, 326, 329, 331.
+ DRUMMOND, COLONEL, 228, 229.
+ DRUMMOND, GORDON, 214, 227.
+ DRUMMOND, LORD, 4.
+ DUBUT, CAPTAIN, 303.
+ DUDLEY, COLONEL, 261.
+ DUMBAR, DERK, 60.
+ DUMONT, AUGUSTIN, xxx.
+ DUNHAM, MAJOR, 217.
+ DUNCAN, JAMES, 443, 444.
+ DUNCAN, JAMES, Army, 285, 286, 287, 318, 319, 330.
+ DUNCAN, JOSEPH, 273.
+ DUNCAN, SILAS, 190, 191.
+ DUPRE, AUGUSTIN, x, xvi, xix, xx, xxi, xxii, xxix, xxx, xxxiii,
+ xli, xliv, xlv, 1, 7,40, 41, 49, 86, 93, 95, 118, 119, 122,
+ 123, 124.
+ DUPRE, NARCISSE, xvi, xxx, xxxiii, 122.
+ DUQUESNE, EXPEDITION AGAINST FORT, 3, 9.
+ DUSENBURY, MR., 346.
+ DUVIVIER, JEAN, 2.
+ DUVIVIER, PIERRE SIMON, x, xxi, xxiii, xlv, xlvi, xlvii, 1, 2,
+ 7, 22, 46, 48, 118.
+
+
+ E
+
+
+ EAGLE, Brig of war, 191, 192, 193, 194.
+ EASLEY, THOMAS, 320.
+ EASTMAN, SETH, 352, 353.
+ EATON, AMOS B., 298.
+ EATON, GEORGE N., 423, 426.
+ EATON, J. H., 346.
+ ECKFELDT, GEORGE, xxviii, 277.
+ ECOLE DES BEAUX ARTS, Paris, xxx.
+ EDDINGTON, CHARLES, 443, 444.
+ EDMONDS, CAPTAIN, 53.
+ EDSON, CAPTAIN, 306.
+ EDWARDS, LIEUTENANT, 179.
+ ELDER, WILLIAM, xxvii.
+ ELLEN SOUTHARD, Ship, WRECK OF, 443, 446, 451.
+ ELLIOT, CAPTAIN, 217.
+ ELLIOT, COLONEL, 273.
+ ELLIOT, JESSE DUNCAN, 154, 177, 179, 181, 182, 183, 184, 264.
+ ELLIS, SALATHIEL, 304, 349, 361, 366, 406.
+ EMUCKFAW, BATTLE OF, 238.
+ ENDYMION, Frigate, 303.
+ ENGELHARD I. A., 70.
+ ENGHEIN, DUKE D', Medal, 267.
+ ENGLAND, TREATY OF PEACE WITH, 94.
+ ENOTOCHOPCO, BATTLE OF, 238.
+ ENTERPRIZE, Brig of war, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 181, 201.
+ ENTERPRIZE, Schooner, 137, 141, 142, 143, 144, 146, 149.
+ EPERVIER, Brig of war, 197, 198, 199.
+ ERIE, BATTLE OF, 203, 204, 211, 212, 213, 214, 216, 217, 218,
+ 219, 220, 221, 222, 223, 226, 227, 228, 229, 230, 231, 232.
+ ERIE, FORT, 154, 183, 205, 211, 212, 213, 216, 227, 228.
+ ERIE, LAKE, VICTORY OF, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 183, 184.
+ ESPIEGLE, L', Brig of war, 188.
+ Essex, Ship of war, 135.
+ ESTAING, COUNT D', xix, 26, 27.
+ EUTAW SPRINGS, VICTORY OF, xxviii, xxxv, xxxvii, xxxix, xlviii,
+ 2, 47, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55.
+ EVARTS, WILLIAM M., 423, 426.
+ EVERETT, DOCTOR, 222, 231.
+ EVERETT, Medal, 362.
+ EVERIST, ETHAN, 237.
+ EWELL, RICHARD S., 321.
+ EWELL, LIEUTENANT, Rifles, 312.
+ EWING, HUGH, 401.
+ EXHIBITION, UNIVERSAL, of 1855, 267.
+
+
+ F
+
+
+ FAGEL, H., 63, 64.
+ FAIRCHILD, GENERAL, 451.
+ FALCON, GORDON, 246, 248.
+ FANNING, CAPTAIN, 228, 229, 230.
+ FARQUESON, R., 2d Tennessee Volunteers, 312.
+ FEBIGER, CHRISTIAN, 20.
+ FIDDENS, F., 70.
+ FIELD, CYRUS WEST, 418, 419, 420.
+ FIELD, GEORGE P., 294.
+ FIELD, H. B., CAPTAIN, 412.
+ FIELD, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, Kentucky Volunteers, 345.
+ FIELD, MOSES W., 458.
+ FILLMORE, MILLARD, 114, 304, 349.
+ FISCHER, COLONEL, 220.
+ FISH, HAMILTON, xxviii, 423, 425.
+ FISHBOURN, WILLIAM, 16, 19, 21.
+ FISHER, JOSHUA FRANCIS, xxix.
+ FLAG, FIRST AMERICAN NAVAL, 98.
+ FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES, 8.
+ FLAGG, AZARIAH C., 237.
+ FLATTERY, MR., 459.
+ FLEMING, CAPTAIN, 217.
+ FLEMING, LIEUTENANT COLONEL, 216.
+ FLEURY, FRANCOIS TEISSEIDRE DE, ix, x, xi, xv, xxiii, xxviii,
+ xxxv, xlvi, xlviii, 2, 15, 19, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27.
+ FONTAINE, LIEUTENANT, 230, 231.
+ FOOT, LIEUTENANT, 230.
+ FOOTE, ANDREW HULL, 373.
+ FORREST, MIDSHIPMAN, 179.
+ FORSYTH, CAPTAIN, 33, 35.
+ FOSBERG, CARL, 448, 449, 450.
+ FOSTER, EDMUND, 228, 230.
+ FOSTER, WILLIAM S., 229.
+ FOSTER, JOHN G., 323.
+ FOURTEEN MILE CREEK, SKIRMISH, 381, 382, 391.
+ FOWLER, LIEUTENANT, 5th Infantry, 284.
+ FRALEY, FREDERICK, 439.
+ FRANCE, FORMER MONEYS OF, 125.
+ FRANCE, FORMER WEIGHTS OF, 125.
+ FRANCE, NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF, Tribute to Franklin, 95, 96.
+ FRANCE, NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF, Tribute to John Paul Jones, 98.
+ FRANCE, OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE TREATY WITH, 93, 94.
+ FRANCE, TREATY OF COMMERCE WITH UNITED STATES, x, 266, 267, 268,
+ 269.
+ FRANKLAND, CAPTAIN, 303.
+ FRANKLIN, BENJAMIN, x, xi, xiv, xv, xxii, xxxiv, xxxv, 1, 41,
+ 86, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 99, 277, 278.
+ FRANKLIN, WILLIAM B., 346.
+ FRAZER, LIEUTENANT, 213, 217.
+ FREMONT, SEWALL L., 413, 416.
+ FRENCH, SAMUEL G., 344.
+ FRIESLAND, RESOLUTIONS OF, CONCERNING JOHN ADAMS, 58, 64.
+ FROLIC, Sloop of war, 154, 160, 161, 162, 181, 249.
+ FRY, MAJOR, 2d Kentucky Volunteers, 345.
+ FULLER, DOCTOR, 222, 231.
+ FUNK, LIEUTENANT, 154, 165.
+ FUeRST, MORITZ, xxiv, 160, 166, 171, 174, 176, 183, 185, 189,
+ 193, 195, 200, 203, 215, 219, 223, 224, 226, 233, 238, 245,
+ 249, 253, 254, 265, 270, 271, 275, 277.
+
+
+ G
+
+
+ GAINES, CAPTAIN LIEUTENANT, 53, 54.
+ GAINES, EDMUND PENDLETON, 204, 205, 220, 226, 227, 228, 229,
+ 230, 231, 232, 260.
+ GAINES, J. P., Kentucky Volunteers, 323, 325, 334.
+ GALE, DOCTOR, 222, 231.
+ GALT, MAJOR, 2d Artillery, 318.
+ GAMBLE, PETER, 190, 192.
+ GANSON, MAJOR, 217.
+ GANTT, LEVI, 329.
+ GARDNER, CAPTAIN, 413.
+ GARDNER, CHARLES K, 206, 207, 208, 211, 213.
+ GARDNER, MAJOR, 4th Artillery, 317, 320.
+ GARLAND, JOHN, 285, 292, 293, 294, 297, 318, 319, 330.
+ GARNER, WILLIAM T., 447, 448, 449, 450.
+ GARNER, MRS WILLIAM T., 449.
+ GARNETT, ROBERT SELDEN, 298, 346.
+ GARNIER, ABBE, xliii.
+ GASCOIGNE, MR., 170.
+ GATES, COLLINSON R., 284.
+ GATES, HORATIO, x, xl, xiii, xvi, xxx, xxxv, xxxvi, xxxvii,
+ xxxviii, xxxix, 2, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 41, 48, 150, 277.
+ GATES, WILLIAM, 413, 416.
+ GATTEAUX, M., xxx.
+ GATTEAUX, NICOLAS MARIE, x, xxi, xxiii, xxx, xlv, 6, 7, 9, 13,
+ 14, 28.
+ GAVITT, COURTLAND, 435.
+ GAYRARD, RAYMOND, x, 266, 267.
+ GEARY, JOHN W., 396, 397, 400, 402.
+ GENERAL GREENE, Sloop of war, 176.
+ GEORGE, LAKE, 12.
+ GEORGE WASHINGTON, Frigate, 166.
+ GERMANTON, BATTLE OF, 14, 26, 48, 49.
+ GIBBONS, LIEUTENANT, 15, 19, 21.
+ GIBBS, SIR SAMUEL, 241.
+ GIBSON, JAMES, 212, 213, 216.
+ GILES, EDWARD, 42, 44.
+ GILLET, R. H., 349.
+ GIRARD, M., 27.
+ GLADDEN, MAJOR, South Carolina Volunteers, 321.
+ GLASBUCH, BARON DE, 44.
+ GLEASON, LIEUTENANT, 231.
+ GODFREY, JAMES, 443, 444.
+ GOODELL, LIEUTENANT, 213.
+ GOODMAN, J. B., 321.
+ GORDON, LIEUTENANT, 144.
+ GORHAM, SERGEANT MAJOR, 3d Artillery, 414.
+ GORMAN, MAJOR, Indiana Volunteers, 339, 341.
+ GORMAN, T., 458.
+ GRAHAM, LORIMER, 321.
+ GRAHAM, MIDSHIPMAN, 192.
+ GRAHAM, RICHARD H., 297.
+ GRAHAM, WILLIAM A., 423.
+ GRAHAM, WILLIAM M., 319.
+ GRAND GULF, ATTACK ON, 379.
+ GRANGER, GORDON, 404, 405.
+ GRANT, ULYSSES SIMPSON, viii, 114, 362, 370, 371, 372, 373,
+ 374, 375, 376, 377, 378, 379, 380, 381, 382, 383, 384, 385,
+ 386, 387, 388, 389, 390, 391, 392, 393, 394, 395, 396, 397,
+ 398, 399, 400, 401, 402, 403, 404, 405, 422, 423, 426, 429.
+ GRANVILLE, Privateer, 99, 101.
+ GRASSE, COUNT DE, xix, 87, 89.
+ GRAY, JAMES, 456.
+ GRAYSON, JOHN B., 323, 325, 334.
+ GREEN, BYRON, 435.
+ GREEN, ENSIGN, 230.
+ GREEN, MARTIN E., 391.
+ GREENE, NATHANIEL, x, xi, xiii, xvi, xvii, xviii, xxi, xxviii,
+ xxxv, xxxvi, xxxvii, xxxviii, xxxix, xli, xlv, xlviii, 2, 7,
+ 9, 30, 41, 42, 46, 48, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 150, 277.
+ GREENE, QUARTERMASTER, 217.
+ GREENLEAF, LIEUTENANT, 140.
+ GREGORY, WILLIAM, 443.
+ GREGG, JOHN, 382.
+ GRIFFITH, ADJUTANT, Mississippi Volunteers, 345.
+ GRIFFITH, SERGEANT, 21st Iowa Volunteers, 387.
+ GRIFFITH, WILLIAM, 443, 444.
+ GRIERSON, BENJAMIN H., 390.
+ GRONINGEN, RESOLUTION OF, CONCERNING JOHN ADAMS, 61, 69.
+ GUELDERLAND, RESOLUTION OF, CONCERNING JOHN ADAMS, 62, 70.
+ GUERRIERE, Frigate, xxiv, 153, 154, 158, 181, 188, 202.
+
+
+ H
+
+
+ HADDEN, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 2d Indiana Volunteers, 345.
+ HAGEN, W. B., 395.
+ HAGNER, PETER V., 323, 326, 329, 334.
+ HALE, W. P., LIEUTENANT, 2d Tennessee Volunteers, 312.
+ HALL, CAPTAIN, 140.
+ HALL, LIEUTENANT, 221, 230.
+ HALL, MAJOR, 213, 217, 229.
+ HARRIDEN, MR., 140.
+ HAMBLETON, S., 179, 180.
+ HAMER, THOMAS L., 290, 296, 297.
+ HAMILTON, PAUL, 155, 157, 159, 161, 164.
+ HAMILTON, SCHUYLER, 323.
+ HAMMOND, RICHARD P., 329.
+ HAMPTON, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 53, 54.
+ HANCOCK, JOHN, 4, 5, 10.
+ HANDY, CAPTAIN, 33, 34, 35.
+ HANSON, CHARLES, 317.
+ HARDCASTLE, EDMUND L. F., 318, 323, 334.
+ HARDEN, COLONEL, 52.
+ HARDIN, JOHN J., 338, 340, 342, 343.
+ HARDING, CAPTAIN, 228, 230.
+ HARDMAN, MAJOR, 53.
+ HARNEY, WILLIAM SELBY, 312, 313, 315, 317, 321.
+ HARRIS, CAPTAIN, 206, 231.
+ HARRISON, CONSUL, 365.
+ HARRISON, FORT, 281.
+ HARRISON, GEORGE, 150, 180.
+ HARRISON, MR., 346.
+ HARRISON, WILLIAM HENRY, xxvii, 223, 254, 255 256, 257, 258,
+ 259, 260, 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 272, 273, 276, 277, 278.
+ HART, JOHN, 187.
+ HARVARD COLLEGE, 116, 127, 225.
+ HARVEY, JAMES, 443, 444.
+ HARVEY, JOHN D., 435.
+ HASILWOOD, COMMODORE, 26.
+ HAY, CAPTAIN, 365.
+ HAY, LIEUTENANT COLONEL, 20.
+ HAYES, COLONEL, 240.
+ HAYS, COLONEL, 43.
+ HAYS, COLONEL, Texas Volunteers, 291.
+ HAZLITT, ROBERT, 294.
+ HEARLAN, SERGEANT-MAJOR, Mississippi Volunteers, 297.
+ HEBERT, PAUL O., 329.
+ HEECKEREN, D. J. VAN, 84, 85.
+ HEIMAN, ADJUTANT, Tennessee Volunteers, 297.
+ HENDERSON, JAMES PINCKNEY, 290, 292, 295, 296.
+ HENDERSON, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 53, 54.
+ HENLEY, JOHN, 139.
+ HENLEY, ROBERT, 190, 191, 193, 194.
+ HENRY, FORT, 372.
+ HENRY, WILLIAM, 258, 260, 262.
+ HENRY, WILLIAM SEATON, 297.
+ HERISSANT, LA VEUVE, xlv, xlvi.
+ HERRON, FRANCIS J., 389, 391.
+ HETT, LIEUTENANT, Ohio Volunteers, 294.
+ HILL, C. J., LIEUTENANT, 2d Tennessee Volunteers, 312.
+ HILLYER, WILLIAM S., 373.
+ HINDMAN, MAJOR, 205, 207, 209, 211, 213, 228, 229, 230.
+ HITCHCOCK, ASSISTANT-SURGEON, 345.
+ HITCHCOCK, ETHAN A., 323, 325, 334.
+ HOE, CAPTAIN, 5th Infantry, 284.
+ HOFFMAN, G., 1st Artillery, 320.
+ HOLDING, LIEUTENANT, 213, 222.
+ HOOKER, JOSEPH, 297, 329, 395, 396, 397, 398, 399, 401, 402,
+ 403, 404.
+ HOLLAND AND WEST FRIESLAND, RESOLUTION OF, CONCERNING JOHN ADAMS,
+ 59, 65.
+ HOLMES, GOVERNOR, 243.
+ HOLTZHEY, JOHN GEORGE, 57, 58, 74.
+ HOLTZHEY, MARTIN, 58.
+ HOORN, T. VAN, 70.
+ HOPKINS, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 216, 217.
+ HOPKINS, STEPHEN, 3.
+ HORACE, quoted, 86, 185.
+ HORN, JOHN, 434, 457, 458, 460.
+ HORNET, Sloop of war, 181, 185, 186, 187, 188, 249, 250, 251, 252.
+ HOSKINS, CHARLES, 294.
+ HOUDON, JEAN ANTOINE, xxi, xlv, 7, 97, 112.
+ HOUSTON, THOMAS TRUXTON, JR., 128.
+ HOVEY, ALVIN P., 380, 383, 384, 385.
+ HOWARD, CAPTAIN, 346.
+ HOWARD, JOHN EAGER, x, xi, xii, xvii, xxiii, xxviii, xxxv,
+ xxxvii, xxxviii, xl, xlvii, xlviii, xlix, 2, 41, 42, 43, 48,
+ 49, 53, 277.
+ HOWARD, LIEUTENANT, 297.
+ HOWARD, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 321, 328, 330.
+ HOWARD, OLIVER OTIS, 396, 397, 399, 400, 401, 402, 404.
+ HOWE, MAJOR-GENERAL, 17.
+ HOWE, SIR WILLIAM, 11, 12.
+ HOWELL, LIEUTENANT, 364.
+ HOWLAND, GARDINER G., 449, 450.
+ HUBBARD, MAJOR, 217.
+ HUGER, BENJAMIN, 323, 324, 326, 329, 334.
+ HULL, CAPTAIN, 213, 217.
+ HULL, GEORGE B., 436.
+ HULL, ISAAC, xxiv, 133, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 172,
+ 173, 188.
+ HULL, MAJOR, 231.
+ HULL, WILLIAM, 20, 260.
+ HUMBOLDT, Medal, 362.
+ HUMPHREYS, DAVID, xi, xiii, xvi, xvii, xxxiv, xxxv, xxxvi,
+ xxxvii, xxxviii, xl, xli, 2, 6, 7, 13, 88.
+ HUMPHRIES, G. C., 304.
+ HUNTER, ADELE, 447, 448, 449.
+ HUNTER, Brig of war, 180.
+ HUNTER, CAPTAIN, 273.
+ HUNTER, JAMES, 273.
+ HUNTINGTON, SAMUEL, xi, 109.
+ HURLBUT, STEPHEN AUGUSTUS, 390.
+ HUSSAR, Brig of war, 352, 353, 354, 355, 356, 357, 358, 359, 360.
+ HYRNE, MAJOR, 52, 55, 56.
+ HYSLOP, LIEUTENANT-GENERAL, 168, 169.
+
+
+ I
+
+
+ INDEPENDENCE, DECLARATION OF, 93, 134.
+ INDIAN PEACE MEDALS, xxvi, 113, 114, 151, 152, 160, 277, 278.
+ INDUS, Ship of war, 365.
+ INGE, ZEBULON M. P., 284.
+ INGERSOLL, LIEUTENANT, 213.
+ INGERSOLL, CAPTAIN, 213.
+ INGRAHAM, DUNCAN NATHANIEL, 352, 353, 354, 355, 356, 357, 358,
+ 359, 360.
+ INSURGENTE, L', Ship of war, 129.
+ INTREPID, Ketch, 144, 147, 148, 163, 186, 189, 246.
+ IRISH, JOSEPH, 436.
+ IRONS, I. F., 319.
+ IRVINE, DOCTOR, 35.
+ IRWIN, CAPTAIN, 323, 325, 334.
+ IRWIN, DOUGLAS S., 294.
+ ISABELLA THE CATHOLIC, ROYAL AMERICAN ORDER OF, 267.
+ ISRAEL, JOSEPH, 136, 147, 148.
+ IZARD, GEORGE, 234.
+ IZARD, RALPH, 144.
+
+
+ J
+
+
+ JACKSON, ANDREW, 160, 238, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244, 271,
+ 275, 353.
+ JACKSON, LIEUTENANT, 329, 330.
+ JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI, CAPTURE OF, 382, 383, 391.
+ JACQUEMART, ALFRED, xxxiii.
+ JACQUEMART, JULES, xxxiii.
+ JAMES, GENERAL, 208.
+ JAMESON, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 38.
+ JAMESTOWN, Ship of war, 364.
+ JARGES, T., 70.
+ JARVIS, JAMES, 129, 131.
+ JAVA, Frigate, 166, 167, 168, 169, 177, 181, 188, 202.
+ JAY, JOHN, xiv, vii, xviii, Xix, xxxiv, 3, 27, 56, 117.
+ JEFFERSON, R., xxviii.
+ JEFFERSON, THOMAS, xvii, xviii, xix, xx, xxi, xxiv, xxv, xxvi,
+ xxxiii, xxxv, xli, xlii, xliii, xliv, xlv, 1, 2, 6, 7, 13,
+ 40, 95, 96, 97, 99, 111, 112, 114, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120,
+ 121, 127, 133, 134, 135, 136, 151, 152.
+ JEOFFROY, M., 267.
+ JESSUP, THOMAS SIDNEY, 205, 207, 209, 210, 213.
+ JEWETT, LIEUTENANT, 231.
+ JOHN ADAMS, Ship of war, 142, 144, 145, 146, 149, 300.
+ JOHNSON, ANDREW, 362, 410.
+ JOHNSON, COLONEL, 16.
+ JOHNSON, EDWARD, 328.
+ JOHNSON, JAMES, SENECA CHIEF, 114.
+ JOHNSON, JAMES, 260.
+ JOHNSON, RICHARD M., 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260.
+ JOHNSON, RICHARD W., 403.
+ JOHNSTON, BENJAMIN, 273.
+ JOHNSTON, CAPTAIN, Ohio Volunteers, 297.
+ JOHNSTON, JOSEPH ECCLESTON, 312, 382, 383, 386, 389, 390.
+ JOHNSTONE, JOHN P., 317.
+ JOHNSTONE, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, Voltigeurs, 328.
+ JONES, ASSISTANT ADJUTANT-GENERAL, 209.
+ JONES, ENSIGN, 221, 230.
+ JONES, GENERAL, 98.
+ JONES, JACOB, 154, 160, 161, 162.
+ JONES, JOHN PAUL, x, xix, xx, xxi, xxviii, xlii, xliii, xliv,
+ xlv, xlviii, 2, 41, 97, 112.
+ JONES, MAJOR, 207, 211, 213, 231.
+ JONES, SIR WILLIAM, 90.
+ JONES, W., 443, 444.
+ JONES, WILLIAM, 172, 178, 182, 186, 191, 198, 201.
+ JORDAN, CHARLES D, 284.
+ JOSEPHINE, EMPRESS, Medal, 266.
+ JOUY, BARBET DE, xxxiii.
+ JUDD, CAPTAIN, 413, 415.
+ JUSTIN, JOSHUA, 192.
+
+
+ K
+
+
+ KANE, ELISHA KENT, viii, xxvii.
+ KEALLY, ENSIGN, 230.
+ KEAN, JOHN, xxvi.
+ KEANE, LORD JOHN, 241.
+ KEARNY, PHILIP, 317, 321.
+ KELLETT, COMMODORE, 365.
+ KELLOGG, MAJOR, 217.
+ KELTON, J. C., 375, 394.
+ KENNEDY, CAPTAIN, 217.
+ KENNEDY, COMMANDER, 364.
+ KEISER, J. H., 70.
+ KER, CAPTAIN, 285, 287.
+ KETCHUM, CAPTAIN, 210.
+ KILBURN, LIEUTENANT, 340, 344.
+ KIMBALL, GENERAL, 389.
+ KIMBALL, S. I., 447, 451.
+ KING, WILLIAM, 258, 260, 261.
+ KINGSBURY, CHARLES P., 346.
+ KING'S MOUNTAIN, BATTLE OF, 265.
+ KINNEAR, DOCTOR, 365.
+ KIRBY, LIEUTENANT, 213, 222.
+ KIRBY, MAJOR, 298, 323, 325, 334.
+ KIRKWOOD, CAPTAIN, 53, 54, 55.
+ KNAPP, CAPTAIN, 217.
+ KNIGHT, MR., 162.
+ KNOX, LIEUTENANT, 15, 19, 21.
+ KNOX, HENRY, 114.
+ KNOXVILLE, SIEGE OF, 397, 398, 404, 405.
+ KUFFELER, JOAN VAN, 84, 85.
+
+
+ L
+
+
+ LABEDOYERE, DE, CAPTAIN, 303.
+ LADY PREVOST, Schooner, 180.
+ LA FAYETTE, MARQUIS DE, xiii, xiv, xix, 26, 94.
+ LAGONE, C. B., 373.
+ LAGRANGE, M., 124, 125.
+ LAMAN, P., 70.
+ LAMB, HENRY, 177, 179.
+ LAMBERT, CAPTAIN, 166, 167, 169, 170, 302.
+ LAMOTTE, JOSEPH H., 297.
+ LANDAIS, CAPTAIN, 100, 101, 102, 108.
+ LANDERO, GENERAL, 309.
+ LANE, COLONEL, Indiana Volunteers, 338, 345.
+ LANE, JAMES HENRY, 338, 340, 344.
+ LANGDON, MIDSHIPMAN, 202.
+ LANGRES, BISHOP OF, 117.
+ LARKIN, DAVID F., 435.
+ LARKIN, FRANK, 435.
+ LARNED, LIEUTENANT, 220, 231.
+ LAUMAN, GENERAL, 389, 390.
+ LAUNAY, M., 267.
+ LAURENS, JOHN, 87.
+ LAWLER, GENERAL, 385.
+ LAWRENCE, Brig of war, 178, 179, 180, 181.
+ LAWRENCE, JAMES, 144, 185, 186, 187, 188.
+ LAWRENCE, MAJOR, 217.
+ LAWSON, SURGEON-GENERAL, 323, 334.
+ LAVAUX, M., 266.
+ LA VEGA, GENERAL, 283, 311.
+ LAY, GEORGE W., 323, 325, 334.
+ LEAR, MAJOR, 297.
+ LEAVENWORTH, HENRY, 207.
+ LE BLOND, ABBE, xxxvi, xxxvii, xxxix, xl, xliii.
+ LEE, FRANCIS, 318.
+ LEE, GEORGE, 443.
+ LEE, HENRY, xxiii, xxviii, xxxv, xlviii, 21, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33,
+ 34, 35, 36, 53, 54, 55.
+ LEE, HENRY M., 451, 454.
+ LEE, LIEUTENANT, 213.
+ LEE, MAJOR, 217.
+ LEE, ROBERT EDMUND, 315, 317, 318, 323, 325, 326, 334, 371.
+ LEGION OF HONOR, 267.
+ LENT, CUTTING, 100.
+ LEONARD, LUTHER, 235.
+ LESSING, PROFESSOR, 406.
+ LEUTZE, EMANUEL, 406.
+ LEVANT, Sloop of war, 245, 246, 247, 248.
+ LEWE, E., 61.
+ LEWE, G., 70.
+ LEXINGTON, Ship of war, 177.
+ LIBERA SOROR MEDAL, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67,
+ 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73.
+ LIBERTAS AMERICANA MEDAL, x, xi, xxii, 9, 41, 86, 87, 88, 89,
+ 90, 91, 92, 277.
+ LIFE-SAVING MEDAL, FIRST CLASS, 441, 442, 443, 444, 445, 446,
+ 447, 448, 449, 450, 451, 452.
+ LIFE-SAVING MEDAL, SECOND CLASS, 453, 454, 455, 456.
+ LIJNDEN, W. C. H., 84, 85.
+ LINCOLN, ABRAHAM, 304, 366, 409, 410.
+ LINCOLN, BENJAMIN, 10, 46.
+ LINCOLN, GEORGE, 343.
+ LINNARD, THOMAS B., 346.
+ LITTLE BELT, Sloop, 180.
+ LITTLEFIELD, A. D., 436.
+ LIVINGSTON, LIEUTENANT, 213.
+ LIVINGSTON, ROBERT R., 58, 72, 90, 91.
+ LLOYD'S COFFEE HOUSE, 132.
+ LOESER, LUCIEN, 413, 416.
+ LOGAN, JOHN ALEXANDER, 380, 384, 385.
+ LONGACRE, JAMES BARTON, 352, 353.
+ LONG, ELI, 402.
+ LONG ISLAND, BATTLE OF, 46.
+ LONGSTREET, JAMES, 328, 397, 398, 400, 401, 404, 405.
+ LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN, 395, 396, 398, 399, 401, 402, 403.
+ LORING, WILLIAM W., 312, 313, 317, 384.
+ LOUIS XVI., KING OF FRANCE, 98.
+ LOUIS XVIII., KING OF FRANCE, 116, 266, 267.
+ LOVELL, MANSFIELD, 329.
+ LOUISA FERNANDEZ, Corvette, 303.
+ LOW, CAPTAIN, ix, 412, 415.
+ LUCAN, quoted, 183.
+ LUCAS, ROBERT, 443, 444.
+ LUCKNER, MARSHAL DE, 24.
+ LUNDY'S LANE, BATTLE OF, 224.
+ LUTHER, ROLAND A., 283, 287.
+ LUZERNE, CHEVALIER, afterward MARQUIS DE LA, xxix, 27, 110, 115,
+ 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 124.
+ LUZERNE, COMTE DE LA, 117.
+ LYON, CALEB, 358.
+
+
+ M
+
+
+ MACALESTER, CHARLES, 423, 426.
+ MACCOUN, ASSISTANT-SURGEON, 365.
+ MACDONOUGH, THOMAS, 140, 189, 190, 191, 192, 193, 194, 195, 196.
+ MACEDONIAN, Frigate, 154, 161, 163, 164, 181.
+ MACOMB, ALEXANDER, 204, 205, 233, 234, 235, 236, 237.
+ MACOMB, WILLIAM H., 422.
+ MADISON, JAMES, xxiv, 133, 151, 152, 253.
+ MAGRATH, PURSER, 179.
+ MAGRUDER, JOHN BANKHEAD, 317, 329, 330.
+ MALESHERBES, M., 117.
+ MALMADY, COLONEL, 52, 53.
+ MALONEY, THOMAS, 443, 444.
+ MALTA, GRAND MASTER OF, 91, 92.
+ MANNERS, WILLIAM, 200, 201, 202.
+ MANNING, MR., 458.
+ MANSFIELD, JOSEPH KING FENNO, 291, 292, 298, 346.
+ MARBOIS, M., 117.
+ MARCH, MR., 346.
+ MARCLE, MAJOR, 217.
+ MARCY, WILLIAM LEARNED, xxiv, 288, 305, 307, 309, 311, 315, 323,
+ 325.
+ MARENGO, BATTLE OF, Medal, 266.
+ MARIE LOUISE, EMPRESS, Medal, 266.
+ MARION, FRANCIS, 52, 53, 55.
+ MARSHALL, CAPTAIN, 168, 170.
+ MARSHALL, HUMPHREY, 338, 339, 341, 345.
+ MARSTON, CAPTAIN, 220, 221, 230.
+ M'ARTHUR, DUNCAN, 256, 261, 262, 263, 264.
+ MARTIN, JAMES, 443.
+ MASON, CAPTAIN, Rifles, 312.
+ MASON, JAMES L., 318, 323, 325.
+ MASSACHUSETTS HISTORICAL SOCIETY, xxix.
+ MATSON, COMMANDER, 303.
+ MAY, CHARLES A., 285, 286, 292, 297, 337, 338, 341, 344.
+ MAY, EDITH, 447, 449, 450.
+ MAYO, CAPTAIN, 308.
+ MAYO, MR., 251, 252.
+ MAXIMILIAN JOSEPH, Elector of Bavaria, 116.
+ MCALLISTER, LIEUTENANT, 31, 33, 35.
+ MCARTHUR, JOHN, 382, 387, 388.
+ MCARTHUR, MAJOR, 55.
+ MCBURNEY, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 216, 217.
+ MCCALL, COLONEL, 43.
+ MCCALL, EDWARD RUTLEDGE, 171, 172, 173.
+ MCCLAY, LIEUTENANT, 284.
+ MCCLELLAND, GEORGE B., 323, 334.
+ MCCLELLAND, JOHN, 323.
+ MCCLERNAND, JOHN ALEXANDER, 372, 373, 376, 378, 380, 381, 382,
+ 383, 384, 385, 386, 387, 388, 389.
+ MCCLUNG, ALEXANDER K., 297.
+ MCCULLOCH, BEN, 337, 345.
+ MCDONALD, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 207, 213, 217.
+ MCDONALD, MR., 459.
+ MCDOUGALL, GENERAL, 17, 19.
+ MCDOWELL, IRVIN, 345.
+ MCDOWELL, MAJOR, North Carolina Volunteers, 43.
+ MCFARLAND, MAJOR, 23d Infantry, 210.
+ MCGUIRE, JOHN, 436.
+ MCILVAINE, CHARLES P., 423, 425, 426.
+ MCINTOSH, JAMES S., 284, 285.
+ MCKAVETT, HENRY, 295.
+ MCKEE, WILLIAM R., 338, 342, 343.
+ MCKENNA, JOHN, 451, 454.
+ MCKENZIE, CHARLES, 443, 444.
+ MCKENZIE, LOUISE, 460.
+ MCKENZIE, SAMUEL, 327, 328.
+ MCKINSTRY, JUSTUS, 334.
+ MCLANE, CAPTAIN, 35.
+ MCMILLAN, CAPTAIN, 379.
+ MCNEILL, JOHN, 207.
+ MCPHERSON, JAMES BIRDSEYE, 373, 376, 377, 380, 381, 382, 383,
+ 384, 385, 386, 387, 388.
+ MCREE, WILLIAM, 211, 213, 228, 230, 231.
+ M'DONALD, LIEUTENANT, Penguin, 251.
+ M'DONOUGH, LIEUTENANT, Artillery, 229, 230, 231.
+ MEADE, GEORGE GORDON, 291, 298.
+ MEASE, MR., 105.
+ MEDILL, WILLIAM, 280, 348.
+ MEDWAY, Frigate, 251.
+ MEEK, JOHN, 273.
+ MEIGS, FORT, 254, 260, 272.
+ MEIGS, RETURN JONATHAN, xiii, 20.
+ MELGAREJA, PRESIDENT OF BOLIVIA, 362.
+ MERCHANT, CHARLES G., 328.
+ MERCHANT, CHARLES S., 413.
+ MERCURE, Brig, 303.
+ MERLIN, Ship of war, 26.
+ MERRIMAC, Steamer, 409.
+ MERRILL, WILLIAM, 151.
+ METIS, Steamer, Loss of, 434, 435, 436, 437.
+ METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART, New York, xxxiii.
+ MEYERS, C., 459.
+ MEXICO, BATTLES OF, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319, 320, 321, 322, 323,
+ 324, 325, 326, 327, 328, 329, 330, 331, 332, 333, 334, 335,
+ 337.
+ MEXICO, CAPTURE OF, 225, 304, 305, 325.
+ M'GLASSIN, CAPTAIN, 15th Regiment, 236, 237.
+ MIAMI INDIANS, 14.
+ MIDDLETON, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 53, 54.
+ MIFFLIN, FORT, 23, 25, 26.
+ MILITARY MERIT, ORDER OF, 98, 109, 110.
+ MILLER, ALBERT S., 294.
+ MILLER, CAPTAIN, 2d Pennsylvania Volunteers, 328.
+ MILLER, DAVID, 459.
+ MILLER, JAMES, 204, 209, 210, 212, 213, 214, 216, 223.
+ MILLER, MIDSHIPMAN, 140.
+ MILLS, F. D., 321.
+ MINON, GENERAL, 339, 342, 344.
+ MINT, PARIS, xxvii, xxviii, xlvii, 2, 41.
+ MINT, UNITED STATES, xxvii, xxviii, xlvii, 29, 30, 114, 160,
+ 277, 278, 279, 287, 288, 353, 362, 419, 434.
+ MIRABEAU, 94.
+ MISSIONARY RIDGE, 396, 397, 398, 399, 400, 402, 403.
+ MITCHELL, COLONEL, Ohio Volunteers, 297.
+ MOHAWK, YACHT, SINKING OF, 447, 448, 449.
+ MOIGNON, CHANCELLOR DE LA, 117.
+ MOLINOS DEL REY, BATTLE OF, 225, 304, 324, 325, 332, 333, 334,
+ 371.
+ MONROE, JAMES, ix, xxv, 160, 253, 270.
+ MONSIEUR, Privateer, 99, 100.
+ MONTANT, LOUIS B., 449, 450.
+ MONMOUTH, BATTLE OF, 14, 26, 48, 49.
+ MONTAGU, Frigate, 186.
+ MONTEATH, MIDSHIPMAN, 192.
+ MONTEREY, TAKING OF, 281, 290, 291, 292, 293, 294, 295, 296,
+ 297, 298, 371.
+ MONTGOMERY, MIDSHIPMAN, 192.
+ MONTGOMERY, WILLIAM R., 284, 285, 328.
+ MONTMORIN, M. DE, 119, 122, 124.
+ MOOERS, BENJAMIN, 234, 236.
+ MOOERS, HAZEN, 237.
+ MOORE, LIEUTENANT, Mississippi Volunteers, 297.
+ MORALES, GOVERNOR, 309.
+ MORANGE, J. B., 331.
+ MOREAU, FORT, 234.
+ MORENO, COLONEL, 296.
+ MORGAN, DANIEL, x, xi, xii, xiii, xvii, xx, xxi, xxxv, xxxvii,
+ xl, xlii, xliii, xliv, xlv, 2, 25, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45,
+ 46, 48, 150.
+ MORGAN, GEORGE W., 315, 321, 330.
+ MOROCCO, EMPEROR OF, xviii, 81.
+ MORRILL, LOT M., 454.
+ MORRIS, CHARLES, 146, 156, 158, 159.
+ MORRIS, LEWIS, 56.
+ MORRIS, LEWIS N., 285, 294.
+ MORRIS, MR., xii, xvii.
+ MORRIS, THOMPSON, 320.
+ MORRISON, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 2d Illinois Volunteers, 345.
+ MORRISON, MAJOR, 341.
+ MOUNTFORD, LIEUTENANT, 237.
+ MOUSTIER, ELEONORE FRANCOIS ELIE, COUNT, afterward MARQUIS DE,
+ xxix, 115, 116, 120, 121, 123, 124.
+ MOUSTIER, MARQUIS DE, xxix.
+ M'REYNOLDS, CAPTAIN, 3d Dragoons, 321.
+ MUHLENBERG, JOHN PETER GABRIEL, 21.
+ MUNDAY, JAMES, 443.
+ MUNROE, JOHN, 298, 341, 344, 346.
+ MURFEY, MAJOR, 20.
+ MURPHY, PHILIP, 443.
+ MURRAY, FRANCIS KEY, 416.
+ MURRAY, H. F., 312.
+ MYERS, ABRAHAM C., 285.
+
+
+ N
+
+
+ NAPOLEON I, xxx, 266.
+ NAPOLEON III, xxx.
+ NASH, EDWIN, 435.
+ NASH, EUGENE, 435.
+ NASH, WILLIAM, 435.
+ NATIONAL PALACE, Mexico, 325, 334.
+ NAUTILUS, Schooner, 137, 141, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149.
+ NAVAL ACADEMY, 177.
+ NAVY MEDAL OF HONOR, 367.
+ NEILL, CORNET, 33.
+ NELSON, F. B., 312.
+ NETHERLANDS, RESOLUTION OF THE STATES-GENERAL OF, CONCERNING
+ JOHN ADAMS, 63, 71.
+ NETHERLANDS, UNITED, ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF UNITED STATES BY, x, 57,
+ 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73.
+ NETHERLANDS, UNITED, TREATY OF AMITY WITH UNITED STATES, x, 74,
+ 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85.
+ NEUVILLE, BARON HYDE DE, 267, 269.
+ NEVILLE, MORGAN, 45.
+ NEW ORLEANS, BATTLE OF, 238, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244.
+ NEWPORT, SIEGE OF, 26.
+ NEWTON, LIEUTENANT, 188, 252.
+ NIAGARA, BATTLE OF, ix, 203, 204, 208, 209, 210, 211, 215, 219,
+ 220, 223, 224.
+ NIAGARA, Brig of war, 178, 179, 180, 181.
+ NICHOLAS, COLONEL, 209.
+ NICHOLS, WILLIAM A., 297.
+ NIEHOFF, S. I., 70.
+ NIEUWERKERKE, COUNT DE, xxxiii.
+ NOAILLES, LOUIS MARIE, VISCOUNT DE, 87.
+ NOBLE, JOSEPH, 458.
+ NORDALL, EDWARD, 455.
+ NORIEGA, GENERAL, 311.
+ NORTH CAROLINA, UNIVERSITY OF, 280.
+ NOURSE, ANDREW, 459.
+
+
+ O
+
+
+ OBARDO, GENERAL, 311.
+ O'BRIEN, JOHN P. J., 340, 342, 344.
+ O'FALLON, JOHN, 260.
+ O'FLING, ENSIGN, 213.
+ OFFLEY, E. S., 358.
+ OKECHOBEE, 281.
+ OLESON, ANTON, 451, 454.
+ OLESON, BARNT, 451, 454.
+ ORANGE, PRINCE OF, 72.
+ ORMSBY, STEPHEN, 297.
+ OSBAND, S. D., 391.
+ OSTERHAUS, PETER JOSEPH, 380, 383, 384, 385, 401, 402.
+ OVERTON, MAJOR, 241.
+ OVERYSSEL, RESOLUTION OF, CONCERNING JOHN ADAMS, 60, 68.
+ OXFORD, UNIVERSITY OF, 93.
+
+
+ P
+
+
+ PACKENHAM, SIR EDWARD MICHAEL, 239.
+ PAGE, CAPTAIN, 4th Infantry, 283, 286, 287.
+ PAGE, FRANCIS N., 329.
+ PALLAS, Ship of war, 99, 101, 102, 103, 104, 108.
+ PALMER, JOHN MCCAULEY, 395, 396, 404.
+ PALO ALTO, BATTLE OF, xxv, 281, 282, 283, 285, 288, 371.
+ PAQUET, A. C., 362, 367, 368, 370, 410, 411, 441, 453.
+ PARKER, CAPTAIN, 217.
+ PARKE, JOHN G., 389.
+ PARKER, D., 279.
+ PARKER, ELY S., 114.
+ PARKER, JAMES L., 301, 302.
+ PARKER, LIEUTENANT, Ariel, 179.
+ PARKER, LIEUTENANT, Constitution, 169.
+ PARKHURST, JABEZ, 217.
+ PATTEN, GEORGE W., 312.
+ PATTEN, JAMES, 237.
+ PATTERSON, D. T., 243.
+ PATTERSON, LIEUTENANT, Mississippi Volunteers, 297.
+ PATTERSON, ROBERT, 305, 313.
+ PATTERSON, R. M., 151, 277, 278, 279, 280, 287, 289, 348.
+ PAUL, COLONEL, 259.
+ PAUL, GABRIEL R., 328.
+ PAULDING, JOHN, xxxv, 37, 38, 39.
+ PAULUSEN, MICHAEL, 30.
+ PAULUS HOOK, SURPRISE OF, xxviii, xlviii, 29, 30.
+ PAYNE, DUVAL, 260.
+ PAYNE, LEWIS, 431, 432, 433.
+ PAYNE, MATTHEW MOUNTJOY, 284.
+ PEABODY, GEORGE, viii, 421, 422, 423, 424, 425, 426, 427, 428.
+ PEABODY INSTITUTE, Baltimore, 422.
+ PEABODY INSTITUTION, Peabody, Massachusetts, 28.
+ PEACE MEDALS, INDIAN, 113, 114, 151, 152, 160.
+ PEACOCK, Brig of war, 181, 185, 186, 187, 188.
+ PEACOCK, Sloop of war, 197, 198, 199.
+ PEAKE, WILLIAM, 185, 186, 187, 188.
+ PEALE, FRANKLIN, 278, 280, 288, 289, 348.
+ PEARSON, RICHARD, 97, 98.
+ PEMBERTON, FORT, 377, 391.
+ PEMBERTON, JOHN C., 382, 383, 389, 392, 393, 394.
+ PENDLETON, CAPTAIN, 415.
+ PENDLETON, NATHANIEL, 52, 55, 56.
+ PENGUIN, Sloop of war, 249, 250, 251, 252.
+ PENN, MR., 90.
+ PENNSYLVANIA GAZETTE, 93.
+ PERRY, CHRISTOPHER RAYMOND, 176.
+ PERRY, MATTHEW CALBRAITH, 300, 307, 309.
+ PERRY, OLIVER HAZARD, 172, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182,
+ 183, 184, 257, 259, 260, 262.
+ PERRY, RAYMOND, 192.
+ PETERSEN, N. A., 451, 454.
+ PETTRICH, MR., 278, 279.
+ PEYTON, CAPTAIN, 35.
+ PHILADELPHIA, Ship of war, 143, 150, 161, 163, 166, 186, 189,
+ 246, 249.
+ PHILBRICK, JOHN O., 445, 446, 453.
+ PICKENS, ANDREW, 42, 43, 44, 53.
+ PICKERING, Brig of war, 135.
+ PICKETT, GEORGE E., 328.
+ PIERCE, FRANKLIN, 304, 315, 317, 318, 320, 321, 324, 325, 327,
+ 330, 333, 349, 351.
+ PIERCE, WILLIAM, 52, 55, 56.
+ PIKE, ALBERT, 341, 344, 345.
+ PILLOW, GIDEON JOHNSON, 306, 310, 312, 313, 314, 317, 318, 319,
+ 321, 324, 326, 327, 328, 329.
+ PINCKNEY, SURGEON, 364.
+ PINSON, GENERAL, 311.
+ PISCATAQUA, FIGHT AT, 25.
+ PITOT, CAPTAIN, 128.
+ PLACE, JOHN, 188.
+ PLATT, MIDSHIPMAN, 192.
+ PLATTSBURGH, BATTLE OF, 191, 193, 195, 233, 234, 235, 236, 237.
+ PLYMOUTH, Sloop of war, 422.
+ PLYMPTON, JOSEPH, 312, 313, 320.
+ POICTIERS, Frigate, 161.
+ POIRIER, M., xliii.
+ POLK, JAMES KNOX, 280, 361.
+ POLK, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 53, 54.
+ POLLOCK, JAMES, xlviii.
+ PONSCARME M., xxx.
+ POOR RICHARD'S ALMANAC, 93.
+ POPE, JOHN, 292, 298, 346.
+ PORCUPINE, Schooner, 180.
+ PORTER, DAVID D., 377, 378, 379, 390.
+ PORTER, FITZ-JOHN, 329, 331.
+ PORTER, PETER BUEL, 204, 205, 206, 207, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213,
+ 215, 216, 217, 218, 228, 229, 230.
+ PORT GIBSON, 379, 380, 391.
+ PORT HUDSON, 376, 381.
+ PORTRAIT LATHE, 277.
+ POTTS, 346.
+ POWELL, JOHN, 443, 444.
+ POWLES HOOK, 30, 31, 32.
+ PREBLE, EDWARD, xxiv, xxx, 133, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140,
+ 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 154, 163,
+ 164, 181, 197, 201.
+ PREBLE, GEORGE H., xxxi.
+ PRENTISS, JAMES H., 343.
+ PRESIDENT, Ship of war, 129, 149.
+ PREVOST, SIR GEORGE, 233, 234.
+ PRICE, MAJOR, 297.
+ PRICE, Ram, 377.
+ PRIDE, G. G., 376.
+ PRIME, F. E., 376, 388.
+ PRINCETON, BATTLE OF, 46, 49.
+ PRINCETON COLLEGE, 30, 152.
+ PRINCETON, Steamship of war, 308.
+ PROCTOR, HENRY A., 255, 256, 257, 259, 261, 272, 273.
+ PRUSSIA, KING OF, VISIT TO PARIS MINT, Medal, 266.
+ PUENTE, CAPTAIN, 303.
+ PULASKI, CASIMIR, COUNT, 26.
+ PULLMAN, LIEUTENANT, 158.
+ PUTNAM, ISRAEL, 4.
+ PUTMAN, LIEUTENANT, Tennessee Volunteers, 294.
+ PUYMAURIN, M. DE, 266.
+ PYLADE, Brig, 303.
+
+
+ Q
+
+
+ QUARLES, AUGUSTUS, 321.
+ QUEEN CHARLOTTE, Ship of war, 180.
+ QUEEN, LIEUTENANT, 364.
+ QUEENSTOWN HEIGHTS, BATTLE OF, 224.
+ QUINBY, ISAAC F., 377, 385, 388.
+ QUITMAN, JOHN ANTHONY, 290, 293, 295, 296, 297, 306, 315, 317,
+ 318, 321, 322, 326, 327, 328, 329, 330, 331, 332.
+
+
+ R
+
+
+ RAMSAY, GEORGE D., 292, 298.
+ RANDOLPH, E. B., 211.
+ RANDWYCK, GEORGE VAN, 84, 85.
+ RANSOM, THOMAS EDWARD GREENFIELD, 384, 385.
+ RANSOM, TRUMAN B., 315, 316, 321, 328.
+ RAPP, MR., 162.
+ RAWLINS, JOHN A., 373.
+ RAYMOND, BATTLE AT, 382, 391.
+ RAYMOND, GENERAL, 382.
+ RECAMIER, MADAME, 41.
+ RED JACKET, 113, 114.
+ REED, CAPTAIN, 35.
+ REED, LIEUTENANT, 33, 34, 35.
+ REICH, JOHN, xxiv, 133, 135, 150, 277.
+ REID, LIEUTENANT, New York Volunteers, 329.
+ REILY, LIEUTENANT, 202.
+ REINDEER, Sloop of war, 200, 201, 202.
+ RENO, JESSE L., 321, 329, 334.
+ RESACA DE LA PALMA, BATTLE OF, xxv, 281, 283, 284, 288, 371.
+ REYNOLDS, JOHN F., 341, 444.
+ RHYNST, VICE-ADMIRAL, 112.
+ RIALL, GENERAL, 210.
+ RIBLET, GEORGE W., 359.
+ RICHARDS, SAMUEL, 443.
+ RICHARDSON, CAPTAIN, 217.
+ RICOT, CAPTAIN, 102, 108.
+ RIDDLE, LIEUTENANT, 213, 217, 221, 230.
+ RIDGELY, CHARLES G., 140.
+ RIDGELY, RANDOLPH, 286, 294, 295, 297.
+ RIGGIN, JOHN, JR., 373.
+ RIGGS, ELISHA, 422.
+ RIGGS, GEORGE W., 423, 426.
+ RILEY, BENNET, 315, 316, 317, 320, 324, 326, 327, 331.
+ RINGGOLD, SAMUEL, 283, 285, 286, 287.
+ RIO GRANDE, VICTORIES ON THE, xxiv, 281, 282, 283, 284, 285, 286,
+ 287, 288, 289.
+ RIPLEY, ELEAZER WHEELOCK, 204, 205, 207, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213,
+ 219, 220, 221, 222, 228, 229, 230.
+ RITCHIE, CAPTAIN, 211.
+ RITCHIE, DAVID, 435, 437.
+ RITTENHOUSE, DOCTOR, 114.
+ RIVES, WILLIAM C., 423.
+ ROANE, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, Arkansas Volunteers, 341, 345.
+ ROBERTS, BENJAMIN S., 328.
+ ROBERTS, LIEUTENANT, 158.
+ ROBINSON, ADJUTANT, 217.
+ ROBINSON, GEORGE FOSTER, 362, 430, 431, 432, 433.
+ ROBINSON, JOHN, 443, 444.
+ ROBINSON, LIEUTENANT, Navy, 138, 139, 142, 146.
+ ROBINSON, LIEUTENANT, Army, 345.
+ ROCHAMBEAU, COUNT DE, xix, 23, 87, 89.
+ ROCHEFOUCAULD, M. DE LA, 94.
+ RODGERS, ALEXANDER P., 328.
+ RODGERS, GEORGE W., 162.
+ ROGERS, CAPTAIN, Mississippi Volunteers, 339.
+ ROHAN, PRINCE DE, 92.
+ ROME, KING OF, Medal, 266.
+ ROMNEY, SAILING-MASTER, 252.
+ ROOT, LIEUTENANT, 235, 237.
+ ROPES, CAPTAIN, 221, 230.
+ ROSE, FREDERICK HENRY, ix, 362, 363, 364, 365.
+ ROSECRANS, WILLIAM STARKE, 395.
+ ROSS, CAPTAIN, 220.
+ ROSS, L. F., 376.
+ ROTTENBURG, BARON DE, 259.
+ ROUSSEL, CAMILLE, 22, 23.
+ RUCKER, LIEUTENANT, 341, 345.
+ RUDOLPH, CAPTAIN, 35, 36, 53.
+ RUDOLPH, LIEUTENANT, 31, 32, 33, 35.
+ RUFFLER, WILLIAM, 443.
+ RUSSELL, DAVID A., 329.
+ RUSSELL, GEORGE PEABODY, 423, 426.
+ RUSSELL, LIEUTENANT, Mississippi Volunteers, 297.
+ RUSSIA, EMPRESS OF, 62, 111, 112.
+
+
+ S
+
+
+ SACKETT'S HARBOR, DEFENCE OF, 203.
+ SACRIFICIOS, ROADS OF, 308.
+ SA-GO-YA-WAT-HA, SENECA CHIEF, 114.
+ SALLANDE, GRAND BAILIFF DE, 60.
+ SALTILLO, 338.
+ SAN ANTONIO, BATTLE OF, 225, 304, 305, 317, 318, 320, 332, 334.
+ SAN COSMO, GATE OF, 334.
+ SANDERS, JOHN, 291.
+ SANDS, JOSHUA R., 365.
+ SAN FRANCISCO, Steamship, WRECK OF, x, 362, 411, 412, 413, 414,
+ 415, 416, 417.
+ SAN GERONIMO, BATTLE OF, 315.
+ SAN JUAN D'ULLOA, CASTLE OF, 305, 307, 309, 310, 311.
+ SAN PABLO, CHURCH OF, 317.
+ SAN REMO, 363.
+ SANTA ANNA, ANTONIO LOPEZ DE, 313, 322, 323, 324, 333, 337, 339,
+ 341, 343.
+ SANTHEUVEL, B. V. D., 84, 85.
+ SARATOGA, BATTLE OF, xxii, xxxv, xxxvii, xxxix, 2, 8, 9, 10, 12,
+ 41, 86, 260.
+ SARATOGA, Ship of war, 191, 192.
+ SARTINE, M. DE, 109, 110.
+ SATERLEE, DOCTOR, 413.
+ SAVANNAH, OCCUPATION OF, 14.
+ SCARRITT, JEREMIAH M., 294, 298.
+ SCHWARTZ, COMMANDER, 355, 356, 357.
+ SCHUYLER, FORT, 10.
+ SCORPION, Schooner, 179, 180.
+ SCOTT, COLONEL, 228, 230.
+ SCOTT, FORT, 234.
+ SCOTT, HENRY LEE, 315, 323, 325, 334, 335.
+ SCOTT, MARTIN, 319.
+ SCOTT, MR., 133.
+ SCOTT, WINFIELD, ix, xxiv, xxvi, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209,
+ 210, 224, 225, 228, 230, 288, 299, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308,
+ 309, 310, 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319, 320,
+ 321, 322, 323, 324, 325, 326, 327, 328, 329, 330, 331, 332,
+ 333, 334, 335, 351.
+ SCOURGE, Schooner, 137, 144, 149.
+ SCUDDER, LIEUTENANT, 297.
+ SELDEN, LIEUTENANT, 284, 328.
+ SEMINOLE INDIANS, 281.
+ SEMMES, RAPHAEL, 300, 303.
+ SERAPIS, CAPTURE OF THE, xxviii, xlviii, xlix, 2, 97, 98, 99, 104,
+ 105, 106, 108, 110, 111, 112.
+ SEWARD, WILLIAM HENRY, 408, 420, 427, 428, 430, 431, 432, 433.
+ SHANNON, Frigate, 186.
+ SHARPE, CAPTAIN, Mississippi Volunteers, 345.
+ SHELBY, ISAAC, 243, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261, 262, 263,
+ 265.
+ SHELDON, PORTER, 432.
+ SHEPHERD, OLIVER L., 319.
+ SHERIDAN, PHILIP HENRY, 403.
+ SHERMAN, JOHN, 447, 448, 452, 454, 455, 456.
+ SHERMAN, THOMAS W., 338, 340, 341, 344.
+ SHERMAN, WILLIAM TECUMSEH, 377, 378, 381, 382, 383, 385, 386, 387,
+ 389, 390, 397, 398, 399, 400, 401, 402, 403, 404, 405.
+ SHIELDS, JAMES, 311, 312, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 320, 321, 328,
+ 329, 331.
+ SHILOH, BATTLE OF, 371.
+ SHIPP, EDMUND, 273.
+ SHIRK, J. U., 390.
+ SHORE, LIEUTENANT, 213.
+ SHORT, WILLIAM, xvii, 95, 116, 117, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124,
+ 125.
+ SHORTRIDGE, ADJUTANT, 213.
+ SHOVER, WILLIAM H., 339, 342, 344.
+ SHUBRICK, JOHN TAYLOR, 187, 188.
+ SHUBRICK, THOMAS, 52, 55, 56.
+ SIBLEY, HENRY H., 298, 318, 346.
+ SIMMS, CAPTAIN, 213.
+ SIMRAL, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 263, 264.
+ SINTON, ROBERT, 459.
+ SITGREAVES, LORENZO, 345.
+ SIX NATIONS, THE, 114, 205.
+ SKINNER, ST. JOHN B. L., 237.
+ SMINIA, A. J. V., 59.
+ SMITH, CAPTAIN, 35.
+ SMITH, CHARLES FERGUSON, 313, 319, 330, 372, 373.
+ SMITH, CHARLES H., 454.
+ SMITH, FREDERICK AUGUSTUS, 336.
+ SMITH, GUSTAVUS WOODSON, 316, 317, 323, 334.
+ SMITH, J., 297.
+ SMITH, JOHN E., 380, 389, 401.
+ SMITH, J. L., 323.
+ SMITH, J. M., 319.
+ SMITH, J. P., 328.
+ SMITH, JOHN SPEED, 260.
+ SMITH, JOSEPH, xxx.
+ SMITH, LARKIN, 319.
+ SMITH, LIEUTENANT, 6th Infantry, 207, 210.
+ SMITH, LIEUTENANT, Navy, 179.
+ SMITH, MAJOR, 317, 325.
+ SMITH, PERSIFOR FRAZER, 312, 315, 316, 320, 324, 326, 327, 328,
+ 329, 331.
+ SMITH, MORGAN L., 401.
+ SMITH, R. H., 412.
+ SMITH, ROBERT, 129, 150.
+ SMITH, WILLIAM FARRAR, 380, 395, 399, 405.
+ SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION, xxviii.
+ SMYRNA, Asia Minor, 352, 354, 355, 356, 357, 359, 360.
+ SMYTH, LIEUTENANT, 237.
+ SNEAD, MAJOR, 53.
+ SNELLING, JAMES G. S., 319.
+ SNELLING, JOSIAH, 213.
+ SOMERS, RICHARD, 136, 138, 139, 140, 142, 144, 145, 147, 148.
+ SOMERS, Brig of war, 299, 300, 301, 302, 303.
+ SOMERS, Schooner, 180.
+ SOPER, AMOS, 237.
+ SO-SA-WA, SENECA CHIEF, 114.
+ SPARK, HENRY, 451, 454.
+ SPENCE, ROBERT TRAIL, 141.
+ SPENCER, CAPTAIN, 207, 211.
+ SPENCER, JOHN C., 277, 278, 279.
+ SPOFFORD, AINSWORTH R., xxviii.
+ SPRINGFIELD, BATTLE OF, 49.
+ SPRINGSTEEL, MR., 20.
+ SPROUL, CAPTAIN, 235.
+ STACK, LIEUTENANT, 105.
+ STANLEY, DAVID S., 402.
+ ST. ANNE, ORDER OF, 98.
+ STANSBURY, JOHN, 190.
+ STARR & MARCUS, 421.
+ STARS AND STRIPES, 8.
+ ST. BERNARD, PASSAGE OF THE, Medal, 266.
+ ST. CLAIR, ARTHUR, 254.
+ STEELE, FREDERICK, 329.
+ STEELE, MR., 459.
+ STEEN, CAPTAIN, 1st Dragoons, 338, 344.
+ STEPHENSON, FORT, 273.
+ STEPTOE, EDWARD J., 326, 327, 331.
+ STEVENS, B. F., 427.
+ STEVENS, ISAAC I., 317, 323, 325, 334.
+ STEWART, CHARLES, 245, 246, 247, 248.
+ STEWART, SIR HEWSTON, 363, 364, 365.
+ STEWART, JOHN, x, xix, xxviii, xxx, xxxv, xlii, xliii, xlviii,
+ 2, 9, 15, 19, 20, 28.
+ STEWART, LIEUTENANT, Navy, 188.
+ STEWART, LIEUTENANT, Rifles, 328.
+ STEWART, WILLIAM, 443.
+ STILLWATER, BATTLE OF, 9.
+ STIRLING, WILLIAM ALEXANDER, LORD, 31, 32, 34, 36.
+ ST. JOHN OF JERUSALEM, ORDER OF, 117.
+ ST. LAZARE, ORDER OF, xlv, xlvi.
+ ST. LOUIS, ORDER OF, xlv, xlvi, 267.
+ ST. LOUIS, Sloop of war, 352, 353, 354, 355, 356, 357, 358, 359,
+ 360.
+ STODDART, BENJAMIN, 130, 132.
+ STONE, CHARLES P., 326, 329, 334.
+ STONY POINT, TAKING OF, ix, xii, xxviii, xxxv, xlii, xliii, xlvi,
+ xlviii, 2, 14, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22, 23, 24, 25, 27, 28, 39.
+ STORY, WILLIAM WETMORE, 422.
+ STOUFFER, CAPTAIN, ix, 412.
+ ST. PHILIP, FORT, 239, 241.
+ STRINGHAM, SILAS H., 354.
+ SULLIVAN, JOHN, 26.
+ SUMNER, EDWIN VOSE, 312, 318, 324, 330.
+ SUMNER, JETHRO, 53.
+ SUSQUEHANNA, Ship of war, 363, 364.
+ SUTHERLAND, MAJOR, 35.
+ SUTHERLAND, G. T., 312.
+ SWIFT, JOSEPH GARDNER, 208.
+ SYREN, Brig of war, 137, 141, 142, 144, 146, 149, 246.
+
+
+ T
+
+
+ TACUBAYA, 315, 323, 334.
+ TALLADEGA, BATTLE OF, 238.
+ TANNER, Bark, WRECK OF, 450, 454.
+ TARLETON, SIR BANASTRE, 42, 43, 44.
+ TATE, CAPTAIN, 43.
+ TAYLOR, FRANCIS, 317, 320, 326, 327.
+ TAYLOR, GEORGE, 458.
+ TAYLOR, GEORGE, MAJOR, 412, 415.
+ TAYLOR, SAILING-MASTER, 179.
+ TAYLOR, ZACHARY, xxiv, 272, 281, 282, 283, 284, 285, 286, 287,
+ 288, 289, 290, 291, 292, 293, 294, 295, 296, 297, 298, 299,
+ 304, 336, 337, 338, 339, 340, 341, 342, 343, 344, 345, 346,
+ 347, 348, 350, 371.
+ TECUMSEH, 254, 281.
+ TELEGRAPH, ATLANTIC, LAYING OF THE, 418, 419, 420.
+ TERRETT, LIEUTENANT, 1st Infantry, 294.
+ THAMES, BATTLE OF THE, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261,
+ 262, 263, 264, 265.
+ THOMAS, COLONEL, South Carolina Volunteers, 43.
+ THOMAS, ENSIGN, 221, 230.
+ THOMAS, GEORGE HENRY, 344, 395, 397, 398, 399, 400, 401, 402, 403,
+ 404, 405.
+ THOMAS, JOHN, 4, 14.
+ THOMAS, PHILEMON, 242.
+ THOMAS, R. J., 443, 444.
+ THOMPSON, MAJOR, 260.
+ THORNE, FROST, 449.
+ THORN, LIEUTENANT, 140, 141.
+ THOUVENEL, M., xlviii, xlix.
+ THREE RIVERS, BATTLE OF, 14.
+ THWING, MIDSHIPMAN, 192.
+ TICONDEROGA, BATTLE AT, 14.
+ TICONDEROGA, Ship of war, 191, 195, 196.
+ TIGRESS, Schooner, 180.
+ TIGRESS, Steamboat, 378.
+ TIPPECANOE, BATTLE OF, 254, 272.
+ TILGHMAN, LLOYD, 391.
+ TILGHMAN, TENCH, 88, 89.
+ TILLINGHAST, LIEUTENANT, 173, 202.
+ TJASSENS, H., 84, 85.
+ TODD, CHARLES SCOTT, 260.
+ TODD, LEWIS, 188.
+ TOHOPEKA, BATTLE OF, 238.
+ TOSCAN, MIDSHIPMAN, 202.
+ TOTTEN, JOSEPH GILBERT, 237, 310.
+ TOUCEY, ISAAC, 364.
+ TOWER, ZEALOUS B., 316, 323, 325, 334.
+ TOWSON, NATHAN,, 206, 207, 208, 209, 211, 220, 221, 228, 230.
+ TRACY, R. D., 391.
+ TRAIL, MAJOR, 2d Illinois Volunteers, 339, 341, 345.
+ TRAVIS, MELANCTHON W., 237.
+ TREAT, CAPTAIN, 205, 206.
+ TREATY OF AMITY AND COMMERCE WITH UNITED NETHERLANDS, x, 74, 75,
+ 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85.
+ TREATY OF COMMERCE WITH FRANCE, x, 266, 267, 268, 269.
+ TRENTON, BATTLE OF, 46, 49.
+ TRESCOTT, GEORGE, 237.
+ TRIMBLE, WILLIAM A., 213, 214, 228, 229.
+ TRIP, L. A., 70.
+ TRIPLETT, MAJOR, 43.
+ TRIPOLI, xxiv, xxx, 81, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142,
+ 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 154, 161, 163, 164,
+ 166, 185, 186, 246, 249.
+ TRIPPE, JOHN, 138, 139, 140, 146.
+ TRIPPE, Sloop, 180.
+ TRIST, NICHOLAS P., 322, 323.
+ TRISTAN D'ACUNHA, 249, 250.
+ TROTTER, GEORGE, 258, 260.
+ TROUSDALE, WILLIAM, 319, 329, 330.
+ TROWBRIDGE, DOCTOR, 222, 231.
+ TROWBRIDGE, JAMES, 237.
+ TRUXTUN, THOMAS, xxiii, xxxi, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 194.
+ TURGOT, M., xxiii, 94.
+ TURNBULL, WILLIAM, 323, 334.
+ TURNER, DANIEL, 179.
+ TURNER, LIEUTENANT, ENGINEER, 316.
+ TWIGGS, DAVID EMANUEL, 285, 292, 294, 295, 296, 297, 305, 312,
+ 313, 314, 316, 317, 318, 319, 324, 326, 328, 329, 330, 331.
+ TWIGGS, LEVI, 328.
+ TYLER, JOHN, 276, 277, 278, 279
+
+
+ U
+
+
+ UNITED NETHERLANDS AND UNITED STATES, CONVENTION BETWEEN THE, 84.
+ UNITED STATES, ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF, BY UNITED NETHERLANDS, x, 57,
+ 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73.
+ UNITED STATES, ARMS OF, 113, 115.
+ UNITED STATES, Frigate, 154, 163, 164, 181.
+ UNITED STATES, LETTER FROM, TO KING OF FRANCE, 110.
+ UNITED STATES, TREATY OF AMITY AND COMMERCE WITH UNITED
+ NETHERLANDS, x, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85.
+ UNITED STATES, TREATY OF COMMERCE WITH FRANCE, x.
+ UNITED STATES AND UNITED NETHERLANDS, CONVENTION BETWEEN THE, 84.
+ UPHAM, TIMOTHY, 212, 213.
+ UTRECHT, RESOLUTION OF, CONCERNING JOHN ADAMS, 61.
+
+
+ V
+
+
+ VALLETTE, LIEUTENANT, 192.
+ VAN BUREN, ABRAHAM, 298, 323.
+ VAN BUREN, MARTIN, 160, 275, 278.
+ VANDERBILT, CORNELIUS, viii, xxxi, 304, 406, 407, 408, 409.
+ VANDERBILT, Steamship, GIFT OF, 406, 407, 408, 409.
+ VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY, 407.
+ VANDERVILLE, LIEUTENANT, 35.
+ VAN DORN, EARL, 17th Infantry, 329.
+ VANDYKE, MR., 131.
+ VAN VOAST, JAMES, 413, 416.
+ VAN WART, ISAAC, xxxv, 37, 38, 39.
+ VARAGE, M. DE, 100.
+ VASQUEZ, GENERAL, 311.
+ VAUGHAN, ADJUTANT, Kentucky Volunteers, 341.
+ VAUGUYON, DUC DE LA, 72, 73.
+ VAUVILLIER, M. DE, xliii.
+ VENDOME, COLUMN IN THE PLACE, xxx.
+ VENGEANCE, LA, Ship of war, 128, 129, 132, 194.
+ VENGEANCE, Ship of war, 99, 101, 102, 103.
+ VERA CRUZ, CAPTURE OF, 225, 304, 305, 306, 307, 308, 309, 310, 311,
+ 332, 371.
+ VERNON, MOUNT, 2, 3.
+ VERPLANCK'S POINT, 17, 21, 39.
+ VIBRAY, COUNT DE, xxix.
+ VICKSBURG, CAPTURE OF, 370, 371, 375, 376, 377, 378, 379, 380,
+ 381, 382, 383, 384, 385, 386, 387, 388, 389, 390, 391, 392,
+ 393, 394.
+ VICTORIA, QUEEN OF GREAT BRITAIN, 422.
+ VIENNA, CATHEDRAL OF, Medal, 266.
+ VINTON, JOHN R., 308.
+ VIRGIL, quoted, 74, 171, 195.
+ VIXEN, Brig of war, 137, 141, 142, 144, 146, 147, 148, 149.
+ VOIGT, HENRY, 133.
+ VOLUNTEERS IN MEXICO, Medal, 299.
+
+
+ W
+
+
+ WADSWORTH, HENRY, 136, 142, 147, 148.
+ WAGGAMAN, GEORGE G., 298.
+ WAITE, CARLOS A., 319.
+ WALES, CAPTAIN, 197, 198.
+ WALES, PRINCE OF, 422.
+ WALL, MR., 314.
+ WALKER, CAPTAIN, 286.
+ WALKER, MAJOR, 168, 169.
+ WALKER, WILLIAM H. T., 382.
+ WALLACE, LEWIS, 373.
+ WALSH, THOMAS, 455.
+ WALWORTH, HIRAM, 237.
+ WARBURTON, COLONEL, 257.
+ WARREN, MAJOR, 1st Illinois Volunteers, 339, 345.
+ WARRINGTON, LEWIS, 197, 198, 199.
+ WASHBURNE, CADWALLADER COLDEN, 389.
+ WASHINGTON, GEORGE, x, xi, xiii, xvi, xix, xxiii, xxviii, xxxv,
+ xxxvi, xxxviii, xxxix, xlvii, xlviii, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 16,
+ 19, 20, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 30, 31, 32, 38, 39, 41, 46, 47, 49,
+ 87, 88, 89, 111, 113, 114, 134, 150, 277, 278, 406.
+ WASHINGTON, JOHN M., 338, 339, 340, 342, 344, 412.
+ WASHINGTON, WILLIAM AUGUSTINE, x, xi, xii, xvii, xxiii, xxviii,
+ xxxv, xxxvii, xxxviii, xl, xlvii, xlviii, xlix, 2, 41, 42, 44,
+ 46, 47, 53, 54, 277.
+ WASP, Sloop of war, 154, 160, 161, 181, 200, 201, 202, 249.
+ WATERS, KERVAN, 173.
+ WATKINS, CAPTAIN, 413.
+ WATMOUGH, JOHN G., 229, 230, 231.
+ WATSON, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, Maryland Volunteers, 294.
+ WATTLES, CAPTAIN, 221, 232.
+ WATTS, LIEUTENANT, 207, 213.
+ WAYNE, ANTHONY, x, xix, xxviii, xxx, xxxv, xlii, xliii, xlviii,
+ 2, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21, 24, 28, 150, 254.
+ WAYNE, HENRY C., 323.
+ WAYNE, ISAAC, 15.
+ WEATHERFORD, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 1st Illinois Volunteers, 345.
+ WEBSTER, LUCIEN B., 292, 294, 297, 339, 342.
+ WEBSTER, JOSEPH DANA, 373.
+ WEBSTER, MIDSHIPMAN, 179.
+ WEEKBECKER, CONSUL-GENERAL, 360.
+ WEIBERT, COLONEL DE, 100, 105.
+ WEIR, ROBERT WALTER, xxv.
+ WELLER, JOHN B., 297.
+ WELLINGTON, COLONEL, 237.
+ WELSH, JOHN, 439.
+ WESTCOTT, WILLIS, 456.
+ WEST POINT, xxv, 19, 24, 25, 31, 336, 353, 371.
+ WESTERVELD, MR. DE, 61.
+ WESTMINSTER ABBEY, 422.
+ WETMORE, SAMUEL, 423, 426.
+ WHEELER, ANDREW J., 446.
+ WHEELER, CAPTAIN, Illinois Volunteers, 342.
+ WHEELER, OTIS M., 445, 446, 453.
+ WHINYATES, CAPTAIN, 160, 161, 162.
+ WHITE HOUSE, 255, 282.
+ WHITE PLAINS, BATTLE OF, 48.
+ WHITESIDE, ADJUTANT, 2d Illinois Volunteers, 345.
+ WHITING, HENRY, 298, 346.
+ WHITING, HENRY M., 344.
+ WHITTAKER, CHIEF-ENGINEER, 436.
+ WILDERNESS, BATTLES OF THE, 371.
+ WILLIAM AND MARY COLLEGE, 133, 224, 253, 272, 276.
+ WILLIAMS, AID-DE-CAMP, 217.
+ WILLIAMS, ALEXANDER J., 228, 229, 230, 231.
+ WILLIAMS, DAVID, xxxv, 37, 38, 39.
+ WILLIAMS, FLAVEL, 237.
+ WILLIAMS, FORT, 220.
+ WILLIAMS, HENRY, 443, 444.
+ WILLIAMS, JOSEPH, 187.
+ WILLIAMS, OTHO HOLLAND, 53, 55.
+ WILLIAMS, THOMAS, 323, 325, 334, 375.
+ WILLIAMS, WILLIAM G., 291, 292, 294, 298.
+ WILLIAMS, W. R., LIEUTENANT, South Carolina Volunteers, 321.
+ WILKES, GEORGE, 459.
+ WILKINSON, JAMES, 10, 224.
+ WILLIAMSON, MIDSHIPMAN, 192.
+ WILLSON, JOSEPH, 349, 351, 361.
+ WILMOT, CAPTAIN, 35.
+ WILSON, A., 459.
+ WILSON, COLONEL, 211.
+ WILSON, JAMES H., 383, 389, 398.
+ WILSON, LIEUTENANT COLONEL, 297.
+ WILSON, MAJOR, 217.
+ WINDER, CHARLES S., 413, 414, 416.
+ WINDER, WILLIAM A., 413, 416.
+ WINTHROP, ROBERT CHARLES, 423, 425, 426.
+ WIRTZ, DOCTOR, 413.
+ WLADIMIR, Ship of War, 112.
+ WOOD, CAPTAIN, 168, 169.
+ WOOD, CAPTAIN, 12th Regiment, 321.
+ WOOD, COLONEL, 2d Texas Volunteers, 297.
+ WOOD, ELEAZER D., 206, 210, 211, 220, 228, 230, 231, 260, 262.
+ WOOD, GEORGE T., 292.
+ WOOD, IRA A., 237.
+ WOOD, LIEUTENANT-COLONEL, 213, 216.
+ WOOD, PETER V., 170.
+ WOOD, THOMAS JEFFERSON, 403.
+ WOODS, JAMES S., 294.
+ WOODS, SAMUEL, 328.
+ WOOL, JOHN ELLIS, 235, 237, 341, 343, 344, 345.
+ WORTH, WILLIAM JENKINS, 207, 210, 291, 292, 295, 296, 297, 298,
+ 305, 309, 310, 312, 314, 315, 317, 318, 319, 321, 324, 325,
+ 326, 327, 328.
+ WRIGHT, CHARLES CUSHING, 299, 304, 336.
+ WRIGHT, JOHN, xiii.
+ WRIGHT, JOSEPH, 29, 30.
+ WUeRT, DIE-SINKER, 160.
+ WYANDOT INDIANS, 259.
+ WYSE, F. O., 412, 413, 415.
+
+
+ Y
+
+
+ YACHT CLUB, NEW YORK, 449.
+ YALE COLLEGE, 215.
+ YARNALL, LIEUTENANT, 179.
+ YARRERO, GENERAL, 311.
+ YATES, MR., 458.
+ YEARWOOD, W., 312.
+ YELL, ARCHIBALD, 338, 341, 345.
+ YORKTOWN, BATTLE OF, xxii, 23, 86, 260.
+ YOUNG WASP, Privateer, 251.
+ YOUNGS, CAPTAIN, 192.
+
+
+ Z
+
+
+ ZALLAND, VAN, GRAND BAILIFF, 68.
+ ZANTZINGER, LIEUTENANT, 230.
+ ZEALAND, RESOLUTION OF, CONCERNING JOHN ADAMS, 59, 65.
+ ZUIJLEN DE NIJEVELT, BARON DE, 64.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Medallic History of the United
+States of America 1776-1876, by J. F. Loubat
+
+*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MEDALLIC HISTORY ***
+
+***** This file should be named 21880.txt or 21880.zip *****
+This and all associated files of various formats will be found in:
+ http://www.gutenberg.org/2/1/8/8/21880/
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