Naval History and Heritage Command

Finding aid (Word)

Biographical Note

John Ferguson was a sailor in the U.S. Navy in the mid-19th century. His first assignment was as Clerk on USS Savannah, beginning in October 1843. Ferguson served on Savannah until 1847, rising to First Lieutenant. He next served as a Yeoman on USS St. Louis and San Jacinto before becoming Purser's Clerk and Acting Gunner on USS Decatur in 1854. Ferguson continued his duties as Purser's Clerk, serving successively on USS Cyane, Wabash, and Dacotah until becoming the Admiral's Clerk on USS Lancaster in February 1862. His final assignment was as Paymaster's Clerk on USS Guerriere from May 1867 to May 1869.

Scope and Content Note

This collection contains miscellaneous documents relating to John Ferguson's Navy service. Included are Ferguson's travel pass from the French government, his U.S. passport, letters of application for a gunner appointment, letters of appointment, travel orders, miscellaneous letters and ship's logs.

Preferred Citation

Papers of John Ferguson, Archives Branch, Naval History and Heritage Command, Washington D.C.

Subject Headings (LCSH)

Sailors--United States.
Decatur (Sloop of war)
San Jacinto (Frigate)
Wabash (Frigate)
Passports--United States.
Passports--France.