The Story of Commodore John Barry

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

25100

Title

The Story of Commodore John Barry

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

A stirring tribute to Commodore John Barry, the "Father of the American Navy," this 1908 biography chronicles his journey from Irish boyhood to commanding the first Continental cruiser. Celebrating his bravery, integrity, and pivotal role in establishing the U.S. Navy, the text offers an inspiring look at a hero who fought for freedom and commerce during the Revolutionary War and beyond.

Summary up to 500 words

Born in 1745 in County Wexford, Ireland, John Barry arrived in Philadelphia as a young man to work in the colonial merchant marine. By 1766, he commanded his own vessel, demonstrating exceptional seamanship and leadership early in his career. When the Revolutionary War began, Barry was appointed Captain of the *Lexington*, the first armed cruiser commissioned by the Continental Congress. His historic first cruise saw him capture the British sloop *Edward*, securing the first major prize for the American cause and proving the colonies could contest the sea against Great Britain. Throughout the conflict, Barry displayed extraordinary valor and strategic brilliance. In a single action in 1781, despite being outgunned and wounded, he captured the British frigate *Atalanta* and the brig *Trepassy*. This feat was particularly significant as it occurred while he was escorting vital French supplies, including saltpetre and military stores, to America; these supplies were critical to the victory at Yorktown. Barry's conduct was marked by humanity; notably, he converted a captured British officer, Richard Dale, into a loyal American midshipman. Dale later rose to become a Commodore and retained Barry's friendship until the end. Following the war, Barry continued to serve, commanding the frigate *United States* until it was laid up in 1801 due to political shifts under President Thomas Jefferson. The new administration, favoring retrenchment, ordered the cessation of naval construction and the sale of most ships. Barry obeyed instructions to bring the *United States* to Washington, where it was placed in ordinary, effectively ending its active service for nearly two decades. Barry retired to Philadelphia, where his health failed. He died on September 13, 1803, and was buried at St. Mary's graveyard. Revered by General Washington and his peers, Barry is remembered as the founder of the American Navy. His legacy is preserved through monuments in Philadelphia, including a statue in Independence Square and a tomb at St. Mary's. Historian Martin I. J. Griffin highlights Barry's enduring reputation as a patriot of integrity, a devoted Christian, and a naval hero whose deeds established the imperishable honor of the United States Navy.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Biography
• History