Naval History and Heritage Command

REPORT of THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY.

Navy Department,
November 30, 1838.

Sir:

In the performance of a duty annually devolving on this department, I submit the following report:

The squadron employed in the Mediterranean during the past year under Commodore Jesse D. Elliott, consisted of two frigates, a sloop of war, and a schooner. These vessels, with the exception, of the sloop of war, having returned home either for repairs or in consequence of the terms of service of their crews having expired, will be replaced by a ship of the line, a frigate of equal force, and a despatch brig or schooner. The whole will be under the orders of Commodore Isaac Hull.

Although some of the causes which originally dictated the policy of employing a portion of our navy in the Mediterranean have in a great measure ceased, still it is believed that as a school of discipline under experienced officers, as a means of exhibiting a portion of our naval force in contact and comparison with that of the principal maritime states of Europe, and for the purpose of affording countenance and protection to our commerce, a perseverance in this policy will equally contribute to the good of the service and the honor of the United States.

The squadron now in the Pacific, under Commodore Henry E. Ballard, comprises one ship of the line, two sloops of war, and two schooners.

These last requiring extensive repairs, have been ordered home the ensuing spring, or as soon after as the public interests will admit, and the ship of the line may also be expected to return about the same time, as the terms of service of most of her crew will then be about expiring.

The unsettled and precarious relations subsisting between the South American States bordering on the Pacific, in my opinion render it essential to the protection of our commerce that at least an equal force should be maintained in that quarter. Accordingly, measures will be taken to replace the vessels ordered home by others not less efficient for that service.

The force operating on the coast of Brazil, under Commodore John B. Nicolson, consists of one razee, one sloop of war, and one brig. No change is at present contemplated. The present force is deemed adequate to the protection of our commerce in that quarter, and it is believed that no reduction would be consistent with the attainment of that object.

At the date of the last report of the Secretary of the Navy, the squadron employed on the West Indian station and in the Gulf of Mexico, under Commodore Alexander. J. Dallas, consisted of one frigate, five sloops of war, and one small vessel. The frigate and one of the sloops having recently returned to Boston for repairs, it is contemplated to send another frigate and to increase the number of sloops of war on that station to seven.

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The force will then be composed of one frigate, seven sloops of war, and one small-vessel.

As the blockade of the Mexican ports by the French squadron continues to be strictly enforced, and as indications of a revolutionary spirit have lately been exhibited at Tampico, it is believed that under existing circumstances, as well as in view of future contingencies, no reduction of the proposed force can be prudently made.

A frigate and sloop of war which, as stated in the last annual report of the Secretary of the Navy, were then preparing for a cruise in the Indian seas, under Commodore George C. Read, sailed from Norfolk on the 6th of May last. By the latest advices from Commodore Read, dated the 28th of July, he had reached Rio de Janeiro, from whence he was to depart the next day. Having reason to believe it would conduce to the protection and safety of our citizens and commerce in these remote regions, I have directed these vessels to visit the Sandwich and Society islands on their way home.

That the officers employed on these various services have performed their duties with equal activity, vigilance, and prudence, is sufficiently, evidenced by the fact, that notwithstanding the wars and revolutions which still agitate so great a portion of the South American States bordering on the Pacific, and the long protracted blockade of the ports of Mexico and of Buenos Ayres, the persons and property of citizens of the United States have in no case which has come to the knowledge of this department sustained outrage or wrong; while, on the other hand, nothing has occurred throughout the whole of our intercourse or interposition, to distrust the relations of peace between us and the parties in collision with each other.

The exploring expedition, on the resignation of Commodore Thomas ap Catesby Jones, in consequence of ill health, was placed under the command of Lieutenant Charles Wilkes; with some modification of force; and finally sailed from Norfolk on the 19th of August. It now consists of the sloops of war Vincennes and Peacock, the store ship Relief, the brig Porpoise, and the pilot boat schooners Sea Gull and Flying Fish. Letters from Lieutenant Wilkes announce the safe arrival of these vessels at Madeira, with the exception of the Relief, which vessel was ordered by him to proceed direct for Rio de Janeiro. It will appear from the estimates for 1839, that the annual expense of the expedition, under its present organization, will be very considerably less than that required for it as originally contemplated.

A number of scientific gentlemen, who had accepted appointments in the expedition, under an impression that their services would be required, and their emoluments continued during the period anticipated for the completion of its objects, were not included in this new arrangement. They have asked to be remunerated for their sacrifices and disappointments, and I now submit the propriety as well as justice of their claim.

The act of Congress, approved 22d December, 1837, authorized the President of the United States to employ the public vessels in cruising along the Atlantic coast during the winter season, for the purpose of affording relief to merchantmen in distress. Under this law, the sloop of war Erie, the brigs Pioneer and Consort, the schooner Active, and the steam ship Fulton were occasionally employed with beneficial results. Owing to the want of proper vessels at the disposal of this department, after supplying the necessities of foreign stations, the steam ship Fulton is the only one now available for this service.

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To aid in making the general survey of the coast of the United States, Lieutenants Gedney and Blake, with other naval officers, were, on the application of the Secretary of the Treasury, placed under his directions, and such other assistance afforded as circumstances permitted.

The survey of the southern coast, from Tyhee Bar to Hunting island. May river, as directed by the act of Congress of March 3d, 1837, has been completed by Lieutenant Wilkes, a copy of whose report will be communicated to Congress early in the approaching session. The surveys of the harbors of Beaufort and Wilmington, North Carolina, provided for by the same act, will be commenced forthwith by Lieutenant Glynn, of the navy; and it is expected will be completed in time to be communicated to Congress previous to its adjournment.

The delay in carrying this act into execution has arisen from a want of proper vessels for that service, which will now be performed in a steam vessel, loaned by the War Department. The attention of Lieutenant Glynn will also be directed to an examination of the coast between the mouths of the Mississippi and Sabine rivers, as directed by the act of 7th July, 1838.

Under the provisions of the act of Congress of the 28th June last, and the supplementary act of the 9th of July following, authorizing the appointment of three competent persons to test the various inventions which might be presented to their notice for the improvement and safely of steam boilers, a board has been designated by the President, to make the requisite examinations and experiments, and it is presumed, will report the results at the opening of the ensuing session of Congress.

In conformity with the provisions of the act of 7th July, 1838, making, appropriations for light-houses, light-boats, beacon-lights, and buoys, the coasts of the Atlantic and of the Great Lakes were divided into eight districts, and an officer of the navy appointed to each, with orders to report to the Secretary of the Treasury, for the purpose of carrying out the views of Congress, under his directions.

The instructions of the President for establishing lines of despatch vessels, to run during the continuance of the blockade, of the Mexican ports, by a French squadron, between New York and Vera Cruz, and New Orleans and Tampico. at stated and regular periods, have been carried into effect. The United States brig Consort, Lieutenant William H. Gardner, sailed from New York the 1st of November, and the revenue cutter Woodbury, loaned by the Treasury Department, it is presumed is now on her way to Tampico, under the command of Lieutenant John S. Nicholas, of the navy. This arrangement, it is believed, will be highly beneficial to the commercial community, by affording not only the means of communication, but of transporting their funds to the United States. The state of the navy pension fund is as follows:

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Which was sold, and the proceeds of the sale, with the interest and dividend of the capital, were applied to the payment of pensions and arrears of pensions. Of the balance of stock, $390,832 25, owned by the fund 1st of October, 1838, the nominal amount of $97,699 16 has been directed to be sold to meet payments on the 1st of January, 1839, so that the actual capital of the fund for the year 1839 will be only $293,363 09.

It will thus be seen, that under the operation of successive pension laws, each widening and extending the stream of public munificence, this fund is rapidly decreasing; insomuch that in the course of a very few years large appropriations will be required to redeem the faith of Congress pledged for its support.

Privateer pension fund.—The number of privateer pensioners is thirty-six. The annual amount required to pay them is $2,862. No payments were made to these pensioners during the past year, as the privateer pension fund had been exhausted. This fund, it will be perceived, failed in 1836, and, consequently, no payments have been made since that time. The subject was brought to the notice of the President in former reports from this department, and I have only to add that as, in conformity with the law establishing and appropriating this fund, the certificates of pensions were granted during life, it would appear that the nation stands pledged to furnish the means of fulfilling the obligation.

The construction of a dry dock at some point in the harbor of New York has been heretofore repeatedly recommended by this department, and is every year becoming more necessary to the purposes of the navy. Whatever diversity of opinion may exist as to the most eligible site,, all seem to unite in favor of the object. The two docks at Norfolk and Boston are entirely insufficient to meet the requirements of the service. Delays in repairing ships, at all times injurious, and in time of war dangerous to the interests and safety of the country, frequently occur in consequence of there being no vacant dock to receive them; and at this moment two line of battle ships are lying at New York in a decayed and rapidly decaying state, which can neither be repaired where they are, nor removed elsewhere for that purpose, without great risk and expense.

The subject of a naval academy has also been more than once presented for consideration. Such an institution is earnestly desired by the officers of the navy, and, it is believed, would greatly conduce to the benefit of the service generally. The propriety of affording young midshipmen the means and opportunities for the acquisition Of that knowledge and those

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sciences which are either absolutely necessary or highly useful to their profession, would seem to have been recognised by Congress in the liberal provision for teachers and professors, of mathematics on board our ships of war, and at the principal navy yards. Those, however, who have had the best opportunities for observing the practical operation of this system, are of opinion that it docs not answer the purposes for which it was intended, and that other and more effectual means are required. A naval academy, which should combine the acquisition of those sciences and that knowledge without which professional duties cannot be performed to the public satisfaction, with that practical experience which is, if possible, still more indispensable, would, in my opinion, add little to the expense of the present defective system, and be followed by benefits which would far more than repay the cost of such an establishment.

The attention of the President and Congress is also solicited to that part of the estimates of the Board of Navy Commissioners which contemplates the building of five brigs or schooners, the frames of which have been collected under the law for the gradual improvement of the navy, and which are required for despatch vessels, surveys, and other purposes. It is presumed that no arguments are necessary to enforce the propriety of retaining a sufficient number of ships in commission to afford active sea service to the officers of the navy. Such service is manifestly essential to discipline, to experience, and to those habits of hardihood, without which no officer can adequately fulfill his duty. The same practical experience, necessary to eminence in any other profession, is most emphatically so in that of a seaman; the self-possession and skill required to meet the exposures and dangers incident to a sea life, both in peace and in war, can only be acquired on the seas; the same consequences which result from idleness and neglect in all other conditions of life, will assuredly follow in this; and charged, as the officer is, with protecting the property, as well as defending the rights and honor, of his country, his incapacity is not less dishonorable to himself than injurious to her. Unless, however, his country affords him opportunities of acquiring this professional experience by often calling him into active service, it would be unjust to complain of his inability to perform these high duties, and it is only when he declines these opportunities that he can be fairly charged with being ignorant of what he has never been permitted to learn.

Experience has also demonstrated, that it is only by frequency of active service at sea that the otherwise unavoidable consequences of a long peace can in any degree be arrested. All other expedients will be found either entirely useless, or only partially operative; and I abstain from suggesting any material alterations, in the system of the service, not only for that reason, but because my limited experience in this department has not given me sufficient confidence in my own opinions, or, perhaps, entitled them to the consideration of others.

There are other strong and imposing reasons for keeping up the present naval establishment of the United States in full vigor and activity.

The unremitting attention which, since the late war with England, and the secrets it disclosed, has been paid by the maritime powers of Europe to the improvement and perfection of their ships, of war and of naval discipline, calls for awakened vigilance on our part. The position of the United States, remote as it is from the scene of European rivalry, affords no immunity from its consequences. Commerce makes neighbors of all nations;

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and the conflicts of interest or ambition between any two, can scarcely fail of involving many others. Against such imminent contingencies, an adequate naval force, keeping pace with the. commerce and resources of the country, well manned, and, above all, well disciplined, is our most effectual security. It is equally recommended by its comprehensive sphere of action, the facility with which it can be directed to distant and various points, and by its freedom from almost all those objections which a wise people so justly cherish towards great military establishments. In addition to these considerations, it comes recommended to the people of the United States as the best guardian of their flag, wherever it is carried by their enterprise, as well as by having so largely contributed to that fund of national reputation, which, being a common possession, constitutes one of the strongest bonds of our Union.

Respectfully submitted.

J. K. PAULDING.

To the President of the United States.

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SCHEDULE OF PAPERS

Accompanying the report of the Secretary of the Navy to the President of the United States, of November 30th, 1838.

No. 1. Letter from the Navy Commissioners, transmitting estimates, for 1839.

A. Estimate for the office of the Secretary of the Navy.

B. Estimate for the office of the Commissioners of the Navy.

C. Estimate of expenses of southwest executive building.

D. The general estimate for the navy.

Detailed estimate D 1, for vessels in commission.

D 2, for receiving vessels.

D 3, for recruiting stations.

D 4, for yards and stations—pay of officers and others at.

D 5, pay of officers waiting orders and on furlough.

D 6, for provisions.

D 7, for improvements and repairs of navy yards.

E. Special - for hospitals.

Submitted—for building five brigs or schooners, for receiving vessels.

F. Estimate for the marine corps.

G. List of vessels in commission, their commanders and stations.

H. List of vessels in ordinary.

I. List of vessels on the stocks.

K. Report of proceedings under laws for gradual increase of the navy.

L. Report of proceedings under laws for gradual improvement of the navy.

M. Statement of progress made in carrying into effect the act of 3d March, 1837, authorizing the construction of two sloops of war and six small vessels.

N 1 to N S. Navy pension fund—list of pensioners, &c.

Privateer pension fund—list of pensioners, &c.

O. List of deaths in the navy.

P. List of dismissions in the navy.

Q. List of resignations in the navy.

R. Balance in the Treasury, under law for suppression of the slave trade.

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No. 1.

Navy Commissioners' Office,
November 29, 1838.

Sir:

The Board of Navy Commissioners have the honor to transmit, herewith, estimates for the support of the navy for the year 1839.

These estimates have been prepared in triplicate, in conformity with your instructions, designating the nature and extent of the force to be employed, and directing the amounts for other ordinary objects to be limited to the preservation of the different buildings in navy yards, and other establishments upon the respective stations from injury; and to continue such new works only as might be deemed of urgent importance.

The estimates which are submitted for the purchase of two vessels for the accommodation of recruits, are accompanied by a short statement showing the reasons for presenting them again to the consideration of Congress.

The estimate for building five small vessels has been submitted in conformity with your directions, that the attention of Congress may be called to making the necessary provision for any additional number of this useful class of vessels, if they should deem it proper.

Under the head of objects for which the appropriation for certain contingent purposes are authorized, the board have omitted some which have been included in former appropriations; these are

"For cabin furniture of vessels in commission;"

"For repairs of magazines or powder houses," for which appropriations may be asked when they are required;

"For preparing moulds for vessels to be built," which will constitute a proper charge against the vessels themselves. They also limit the purchase of fuel and candles or oil, for shore use only. This latter change is proposed in consequence of the great consumption of fuel by the steam vessel, and from a belief that these articles would be more appropriately a charge upon the appropriation for repair and wear and tear of vessels in commission, like other stores for ordinary use.

The demands upon this head of appropriation for contingents have frequently been so great as to exhaust it during the recess of Congress, and these changes will operate to prevent a recurrence of this circumstance.

I have the honor to be, sir, your most obedient servant,

I. CHAUNCEY.

Hon. J. K. Paulding,
Secretary of the Navy.

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A.

Estimate of the sums required for the support of the office of the Secretary of the Navy, for the year 1839.

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B.

Estimate of the sums required for the support of the Navy Commissioners' office for the year 1839, as at present established by law.

For the particular reasons which induce the board to ask the above increase on the number of clerks for the office, they respectfully refer to their letters to you of the 15th and 16th of March last, the first in answer, to a call for information from the chairman of the Committee on Naval Affairs of the House of Representatives, and the latter in consequence of a resolution of the Senate of the United States, copies of both of which, as the board have been informed, were transmitted to Congress.

An extra clerk has been employed and paid at the rate of $3 per day from the contingent fund of the office, so long as the state of that fund would justify that application. He has been employed since 1st September last, with the understanding that he could receive no compensation unless Congress should sanction it by a special appropriation, or by an increase of the contingent fund of the office.

To meet this expense to the close of the present year, and other incidental expenses, the estimate for the contingent expenses of the office has been increased to $2,500, being $700 more than was appropriated for 1838.

I. CHAUNCEY.

Navy Commissioners' Office, November 19, 1838.

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C.

Estimate of the sums required for the expenses of the southwest Executive building for the year 1839.

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D.

There will be required for the general service for the navy during the year 1839, in addition to the balances which may remain on hand on the 1st day of January, 1839, the sum of four million seven hundred and seventy six thousand one hundred and twenty five dollars and sixty-four cents. 

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D—Continued.

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The estimates for the year 1839 are for smaller sums under some of the heads of appropriation than were granted for the year 1838, and exceed the appropriations for that year under one head only, viz:

"For the pay of the commission, warrant, and petty officers, and seamen."

The principal cause of this difference will be found in the reduction which was made at the last session of Congress, of the sum of $999,854 91, from the estimates in the appropriation act for the navy.

The estimates, which were based upon the force proposed to be employed, were for $2,311,854 91, and that for the present year is for $2,352,625 64, showing an increase of $40,770 73. This increase is owing to the substitution of two additional sloops of war of the firsthand three of the third class, for the ship of the line of three decks which was embraced in the estimates for 1838, and by an increase in the number of officers, which has occurred since the estimates for 1838 were proposed.

The total amount of this general estimate for 1839, is about $409,000 less than the one for 1838.

Although the amount of money in the Treasury under the head of pay of the officers and others belonging to the navy was undoubtedly sufficient to justify the postponement of the full appropriation, when the reduction was made, yet there is no doubt that the amount of pay accruing to the officers and others upon foreign service will be greater than the sum actually appropriated, and consequently that the actual appropriation for 1838 does not form a proper amount with which to compare the estimates for 1839.

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D—-Continued.

Navy Commissioners' Office,
November 19, 1838.

I. CHAUNCEY,
C. MORRIS,
ALEX. S. WADSWORTH.

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D 1

Estimate of the amount of pay that will be required for the year 1839, for the following vessels in commission, viz: One ship of the line, one razee, five frigates, seventeen sloops of mar, seven small vessels, and one steamer—being part of the first item in the general estimate for that year.

The difference in the amount of this item from the estimate for 1838, arises from the substitution in the present estimate of two sloops of war of the first class, and three sloops of the third class, for a ship of the line of three decks, embraced in the estimate for 1838, and by a change in the number of officers which has been made since the last estimates were prepared.

I. CHAUNCEY.

Navy Commissioners' Office, Nov. 19, 1838.

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D 2.

Estimate of the number and pay of officers, &c. required for five receiving vessels for the year 1839, being part of the first item in the general estimate for that year.

This excess is produced by estimating for the employment of three ships of the line as receiving vessels, at the principal stations, to be kept in a state of forwardness for active service in case any unexpected event should require their employment at sea.

I. CHAUNCEY.

Navy Commissioners' Office, Nov. 19, 1838.

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D 3.

Estimate of the pay of the officers attached to five recruiting stations, for the year 1839, being part of the first item in the general estimate for that year.

I. CHAUNCEY.

Navy Commissioners' Office, Nov. 19, 1838. 

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D 4.

Estimate of the pay of officers and others at navy yards and stations, for the year 1839.

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D4—Continued.

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D4—Continued.

Note.—The surgeon and assistant surgeons of the yard are to be required to attend to the duties of the yard, receiving ship, and marines; one to be always on board the receiving ship.

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D4—Continued.

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D4—Continued.

Note.—The surgeon and assistant surgeon of the yard are to be required to attend to the duties of the yard, receiving ship, and marines; one always to be on board the receiving ship.

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D4—Continued.

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D4—Continued.

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D4—Continued.

Note.—The surgeon and assistant surgeons of the yard are to be required to attend to the duties of the yard, to those of the receiving ship, and to to the marines; one to be always on board the receiving ship.

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D4—Continued.

Note.—The surgeon and assistant surgeon of the yard to attend to the duties of the yard, the ordinary, and marines, and receiving ship, if one should be allowed.

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D4—Continued.

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D4—Continued.

Note.—The increase in the first column is occasioned by attaching two more passed midshipmen to the chart and instrument depot. That in the third column by the addition of one captain, one master, and one secretary to the asylum at Philadelphia, and estimating for one lieutenant less.

The diminution in the fourth column is occasioned by increasing the pay of the master builder at the Portsmouth yard $50, to make the pay the same as at navy yard Washington, by the appointment of a foreman and inspector of timber $700, which is rendered necessary by the increase of work contemplated at that yard, and by adding $150 to the pay of the inspector and measurer of timber at Boston and New York, respectively, all which the board considered reasonable and proper, and by deducting the sum of $26,820, as a balance that will probably be on hand, on the 1st January next.

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D5.

Estimate of the pay required for the commission and warrant officer's, waiting orders and on a furlough for 1839, being part of the first item in the general estimate for that year.

This excess is occasioned by an increase in the number of commission officers, and a variation in the number of those which arc embraced in other items of this head of appropriation for the respective years, and which necessarily vary the number- waiting orders and on furlough.

I. CHAUNCEY.

Navy Commissioners' Office.
November 19, 1838.

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D 6.

Estimate of the amount required for provisions for the year 1839, explanatory of the third item of the general estimate for that year.

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Being the amount asked for in the general estimate.

The experience of several years has induced the board to believe that the cost of the ration, including contingent expenses and losses from decay, will not exceed twenty cents each, and they have, therefore, framed the estimates at that rate, instead of twenty-five cents each, as heretofore.

I. CHAUNCEY.

Navy Commissioners' Office,
November 19, 1838.

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D 7.

Estimate of the proposed improvements and repairs to be made in navy yards during the year 1839, explanatory of the sixth item in the general estimate.

At Portsmouth, N. H.

At Charlestown, Mass.

At Brooklyn, N. Y.

At Philadelphia.

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At Washington.

At Norfolk, Va.

At Pensacola.

Recapitulation.

Note.—The amounts embraced in this estimate have been decided upon by the board, after careful examination of the recommendations of the respective commandants of the navy yards, and the objects selected are those that are deemed indispensable for the public interests.

I CHAUNCEY.

Navy Commissioners' Office,
November 19, 1838.

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E.

Note.—The sums asked for the hospitals have been limited by the amounts believed to be necessary for their proper preservation and advantageous use.

Note.—The sum proposed for building five small vessels has been submitted, by your direction, to furnish the means of communication with our squadrons, which has become more necessary than usual by the disturbed state of some of the countries near which they are employed.

Note.—The situation of the former receiving vessels at Baltimore and Philadelphia has rendered temporary arrangements indispensable, until more suitable vessels shall be authorized.

I. CHAUNCEY.

Navy Commissioners' Office,
November 19, 1838.

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F.

Head Quarters of the Marine Corps,
Washington, October 26, 1838. Sir:

The Navy Department has directed that the estimates for the marine corps be sent to the Board of Navy Commissioners. In accordance with that order, they are herewith enclosed.

I would suggest the expediency of requesting Congress to inappropriate the sum of $150,000, at present appropriated for the purchase of sites, and

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the erection of barracks at Charlestown, Massachusetts, Norfolk, Virginia, and Pensacola.

I remain, with great respect, your obedient servant,

ARCHIBALD HENDERSON,
Colonel Commandant,

Com. Isaac Chauncey,
President Board of Navy Commissioners.

General estimate of the expenses of the marine corps for the year 1839.

There will be required for the support of the marine corps during the year 1839, in addition to the balances that may remain on hand on the 1st of January, 1839, the sum of three hundred and sixty-nine thousand seven hundred and ten dollars and forty-three cents, viz:

Respectfully submitted,

AUG. A. NICHOLSON,
Quartermaster.

Head Quarters Marine Corps,
Quartermaster's Department, Oct. 15, 1838.

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No. 1.—Pay Department.

Detailed estimate of pay and subsistence of officers, and pay of noncommissioned officers, musicians, and privates of the marine corps of the United States, for the year 1839.

Respectfully submitted,

GEORGE W. WALKER, Paymaster Marines.

Head Quarters or the Marine Corps,
Paymaster's Office, October 15, 1838.

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Head Quarters of the Marine Corps,
Paymaster's Office, November 13, 1838.

Sir:

The sum of $9,490, asked for in the estimates for the year 1839, is caused by the 15th section of the "Act to increase the present military establishment of the United States, and for other purposes" passed the 5th July, 1838, wherein it is provided, "that every commissioned officer of the line or staff, exclusive of general officers, shall be entitled to receive one additional ration per diem, for every five years he may have served, or shall serve in the army of the United States."

It has been decided by the accounting officers of the Treasury that the officers of the marine corps of similar grades are entitled to the benefit of the above mentioned provision, under the 5th section of the "Act for the better organization of the marine corps," passed the 30th June, 1834, which provides "that the officers of the marine corps shall be entitled to, and receive, the same pay, emoluments, and allowances, as are how, or may hereafter, be allowed to officers of similar grades in the infantry of the army."

I am, very respectfully, sir, your obedient servant,

GEORGE W. WALKER,
Paymaster Marines.

Col. Archibald Henderson,
Com. U. S. Marine Corps, Head Quarters.

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No. 2.—Provisions.

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No. 3.—Clothing.

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No. 4.—Fuel.

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The only items of the estimate for the Quartermaster's Department of the marine corps for the year 1839, that differ from the estimate for 1838, are fuel and subsistence. 

Respectfully submitted.

AUG. A. NICHOLSON,
Quartermaster.

Proposed for compensation for five clerks employed by the commandant and staff officers at head quarters, in lieu of the pay, rations, clothing, fuel, quarters, and extra compensation heretofore allowed them, as follows:

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Copy of table No. 10, Senate documents of 1835 and 1836, showing the pay and emoluments of the clerks of the commandant and staff of the United States marine corps, before the act of organization, which remain unchanged:

Re-appropriation of $150,000, being the sum now appropriated for the purchase of sites and erection of barracks at Charlestown, Massachusetts, Norfolk, Virginia, and Pensacola.

Respectfully submitted.

AUG. A. NICHOLSON,
Quartermaster.

Head Quarters Marine Corps,
Quartermaster's Department, October 22, 1838.

Sir:

Quadruplicate estimates for the support of the marine corps for the year 1839, are herewith submitted. The amount asked for the support of the Quartermaster's Department is different from the estimates of last year, the cause of which is explained by the following statement.

It will be perceived that an appropriation is proposed for the clerks of the commandant and staff of the corps, in lieu of the several allowances they at present receive. This subject was recommended to the attention of Congress by the late Secretary of the Navy, in his annual report of 1835, in accordance with which, a bill was reported by the Naval Committee of the Senate, but from some cause did not become a law. These clerks have been in the receipt of their present allowances for ten years past, during which time the corps has been augmented, and their duties and responsibilities much increased.

The compensations proposed appear nothing more than their services entitle them to; and at this time will only afford "them a respectable support

I am, sir, &c. &c. &c.

AUG. A. NICHOLSON, Quartermaster.

Col. Archd. Henderson, &c. &c. &c.

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Navy Commissioners' Office,
November 19, 1838.

Of the items embraced in the general estimates for the marine corps, the estimated amount for purchasing a site and erecting barracks at Brooklyn, New York, is the only one which appears to require any remark from the Board of Navy Commissioners.

Although the board have several times expressed the opinion that it is desirable to obtain sites and commence the erection of marine barracks near the stations which are most generally resorted to by our vessels of war, yet as it is understood to be the wish of the department that the estimates for the year 1830 should be limited to the objects of the most urgent importance, the board suggest that this item of the estimate can probably be omitted with less injury to the public interests than any of the others.

With respect to the proposed change in the mode of compensating the clerks, which is submitted for consideration, the board are of opinion that in determining the extent of the compensation to be granted, the pay of those allowed to commandants and others, at navy yards, would form the best guide. The pay of the first clerk to the commandant of a navy yard is established by law at nine hundred dollars, and that of the second clerk at seven hundred and fifty dollars.

I. CHAUNCEY.

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G.-List of vessels in commission, of each squadron, their commanders, and stations.

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H.

A statement showing the names, rates, distribution, and condition of the vessels in ordinary.

At Charlestown, Mass.

The Columbus, ship of the line—has been recently thoroughly repaired, and could be equipped for sea at short notice. This ship is at present used as a receiving ship, for the accommodation of recruits.

The Constellation, frigate—has recently returned from the West India station, and is supposed to require large repairs.

The Concord, sloop of war—has recently returned from the West India station, and will require considerable repairs.

At Brooklyn, N. Y.

The Washington, ship of the line—requires a general repair.

The Franklin, ship of the line—requires a general repair.

The Hudson, frigate—is considered unfit for sea service. This ship is used as a receiving ship for recruits.

The St. Louis, sloop of war, is now under repair.

At Philadelphia.

The Sea Gull, an old steam vessel—very much decayed, is used for a receiving vessel, but is inadequate to the proper accommodation of recruits, and unfit for any other naval use.

At Gosport, Va.

The Pennsylvania, ship of the line—has been recently equipped, and could be prepared for sea in a very short time.

The Delaware, ship of the line—has been thoroughly repaired, and could be soon prepared for sea.

The Macedonian, frigate—nearly ready for sea service.

The Potomac, frigate—requires examination and repair.

The Brandywine, frigate—is under repairs, which will be completed in about three months.

The Constitution, frigate—has received the slight repairs which she required, and could be soon prepared for sea.

The Guerriere, frigate—is generally decayed, and will require very extensive repairs or to be rebuilt.

The Java, frigate—is unfit for sea service, and is used as a receiving vessel for recruits.

The Warren, sloop of war—has just been repaired, and could be soon equipped for sea.

The Shark, schooner—has been repaired, and could be equipped for sea service at short notice.

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RECAPITULATION.

Three ships of the line, nearly ready for sea service.

Two ships of the lime, requiring extensive repairs.

Two frigates which could soon be ready for sea service.

Three frigates requiring repairs, which will be soon commenced.

Three frigates considered unfit for sea service.

One sloop of war, nearly ready for sea service.

One sloop of war, under repair; and

One sloop of war, requiring repairs, which will be soon given.

One schooner nearly ready for sea service.

One old steam vessel, so much decayed as to be unfit for any naval use.

I. CHAUNCEY.

Navy Commissioners' Office,
November 19, 1838.

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I.

A statement of the vessels on the stocks at the several navy yards.

At Portsmouth, N. H.

One ship of the line, and one frigate.

At Charlestown, Massachusetts.

Two ships of the line, and one frigate.

At Brooklyn, New York.

Two frigates.

At Philadelphia.

One frigate.

At Gosport, Va.

One ship of the line, and one frigate.

Recapitulation.

Four ships of the line, and six frigates.

Note.—All of these vessels were commenced under the authority given by the acts for the gradual increase of the navy of the 29th April, 1816, and 3d March, 1831.

I. CHAUNCEY.

Navy Commissioners' Office,
November 19, 1838.

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K.

A statement of the measures which have been adopted to carry into effect the acts for the gradual increase of the navy, which were approved on the 29th April, 1816, and 3d March, 1831.

The ships of the line Columbus, North Carolina, and Delaware, were completed, and have been in service for several years.

The hull of the Ohio ship of the line was completed and launched, under this appropriation, in 1820.

This ship has recently been repaired and equipped from the ordinary appropriations, and is now about to sail from New York.

The Pennsylvania ship of the line, was launched in 1837, and the remaining balance of the appropriation for the gradual increase of the navy, with a special appropriation, were expended in preparing her for removal to Norfolk. This ship has since had her equipments nearly completed, from the ordinary appropriations.

The frigates Brandywine, Potomac, and Columbia, have been launched, equipped, and employed at sea.

Four ships of the line and six frigates remain on the stocks. They are generally sound, but the keels, kelsons, or dead woods of some of them are decayed, and will require to be replaced before they can be launched.

These vessels are in general so far advanced that they might, probably, be made ready for sea as soon as the necessary crews could be collected for them.

The appropriation under which these vessels were commenced has been exhausted, and additional appropriations will be necessary, whenever it may be deemed expedient to complete any of them for service.

I. CHAUNCEY.

Navy Commissioners' Office,
November 19, 1838.

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L.

Statement of the measures which have been adopted under the laws for the gradual improvement of the navy, which were approved 3d March, 1827, and 2d March, 1833.

Contracts have been entered into for live oak frames for fifteen ships of the line, eighteen frigates, sixteen sloops of war, nine steamers, and nine small vessels, brigs, or schooners.

Of these the deliveries have been completed for four ships of the line, seven frigates, and four sloops of war.

For the remaining frames, partial deliveries only have been made. By the terms of the contracts, the whole ought to be completed in 1841.

The following statement shows, in greater detail, the quantities of different materials that have been collected, their cost, the liabilities still existing, and the balance which will be available for other purposes when the whole amount of the appropriation shall be realized, This statement is made up to the 1st day of October, 1838.

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Note.—The number of frames for sloops of war, as stated in this report, is six less than was stated in the report of last year. This difference arises, from the correction of an error in the report of last year, which was occasioned by inadvertently including the frames which had been contracted for, under the appropriation for six small vessels, with those which had been contracted for under this appropriation.

I. CHAUNCEY.

Navy Commissioners' Office,
November 19, 1838.

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M.

Statement of the progress made in carrying into effect the appropriation act of 3d March, 1837, which authorized the construction of two sloops of war and six small vessels.

The two sloops of war named the Cyane and Levant have been completed, and are both employed at sea.

The difficulty of collecting the live oak frames in Florida, and other causes, have delayed the construction of the six small sloops of war. It is hoped that three of them will be commenced immediately, and be completed early in the next year.

I. CHAUNCEY.

Navy Commissioners' Office,
November 19, 1838.

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N 1.

Alphabetical list of invalid navy pensioners, complete to 30th September, 1833.

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N1—Continued.

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N1—Continued.

--640--

N1—Continued.

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N1—Continued.

--642--

N1—Continued.

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N1-Continued.