Naval History and Heritage Command

Document dated 6 July 1798, signed by Joseph Tatlow, Justice of the Peace at Newcastle, Delaware. Enlistment oath for eight seamen sworn in on board United States under the command of John Barry.

Edward Barry, John Robinson, John Ellis, John
Smith, John Reynolds, Whitford Hudson Hanse
Andrews [and] Benjamin Rogers being duly
appointed Seaman on board the Frigate United States
John Barry do solemnly swear to bear
true allegiance to the United States of America, and
to serve them honestly and faithfully against all their
enemies or opposers whomsoever; and to observe

and obey the orders of the President of the United States
of America, and the orders of the officers appointed
over me, and in all things to confirm myself, to the
rules and regulations which now are or hereafter may
be directed, and to the articles of war which may
be enacted by Congress, for the better government
of the navy of the United States - and that I will
support the constitution of the United States.
Sworn before me one of the
Justices of the Peace of Newcastle County in
the District of Delaware on 6th of July 1798.

Joseph Tatlow