Naval History and Heritage Command

Table of Contents

  1850

on the 16 of Febua 1850 Saturday night A fier takein place in the engineneers office at the Washington yard aBove the old paint shop Joining on to the Rigin Loft and Mr ellis was having a small patened Boiler Made and they had a great [d]eal of soderin work to aBout it and they had A soldering pot seting up Against the wall and the takin place from the heat of the soderin pot terough the plastering a nd caught to the lathes after sun doun all the Mechanics and laberoers wher out of the yard and the Watch man dis covered the smoke Bursting out and the alarm wher givin and the Bell Rung and in less than no time the yard were full of men and Commodore Ballard and all his officers were there to see that every wher there were to see that every thing went on right.

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270. EYEWITNESS ACOUNT OF LAYING THE CORNERSTONE

Michael Shiner [Diary 1813 -1869], Ma 186 pp folio.

He notes the mechnics and laborers from the Navy Yard volunteered to rescue the cornerstone which had fallen through the canal bridge at 14^th Street. The task was accomplished to the tune of "Hail Columbia" and Yankee Doodle." Shiner then describes the laying of the cornerstone on July 4 1848

Journals and Diaries             MSS

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[The above unnumbered page was found between pages numbered 105-106 it appears to be a dealer's descriptive catalogue which advertised the sale of Michael Shiner's manucript circa 1905.]

--[105.1]--

105       1850

Died in Washington the Hon ex senator John C Calhoun from south carrolina the 31 day of March 1850 on Sunday

The hauling up of the u s Steamer Water witch [2] in washington navy yard the 28 day of May 1850 on Thursday the Hon Sceratary of the navy Wm Ballard preston wher down that day and Some more of the cabinet commodore Hon E Ballard wher present wher and Captain John B Montgomry and first lieut alfred Taylor and all the other officers of the yard wher present and the Secrtary of the Navy gave them all the Ballance part of the day Both Mechanics and laborers

Died in Washington at the presidents Mansion the Hon Major general Zachrier Taylor prendent of the united States on the 9 of July 1850 on tuesday and he was gentelman and all soilger⁶⁶

--[105.2]--

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66. The 1850 US census for Washington, DC, 6th Ward, reflects that Michel Shiner was born in DC (1860 census states Maryland, as does the 1880 census for his daughter Mary, where she listed her father's birthplace as Maryland). The 1850 cenusus states that he was then 46 years old and lived with Jane Jackson Shiner, 19 years old, daughter Sarah E., 12 years old, son Isaac M., 5 years old and their infant son Braxton, 6 months old. Michael Shiner's occupation is listed in 1850 as painter. The census taker has listed Michael as black and stated that he is unable to read or write. Phillis Shiner (Michael Shiner's first wife) most likely died sometime after 1833, but there is no record reflecting the event. Based on the ages of the children, a date of circa 1848 seems probable. The 1850 census listed the total population of the District of Columbia as: 51,687, consisting of: White 37,941; Free Negro 10,059; and Slave 3,687. The Sixth Ward where Michael Shiner and his family resided had 46 male and 64 female slaves.

106       1850

launching of the united States Steamer Water Witch [3] at washington navy yard on the 20 day of October 1850 on Monday. Commodore henry E Ballard wher present and Captain John B Montgumery and first lieut alfred Taylor and Sailing Master Charles Morris wher present Boatswain Watterson Master Builder Edward foster John Smith Quarterman wher present Mr Joseph pagget Overseer of the yard hands

Hauling up of the united States Steamer Vixon at washington navy yard on Tuesday 19 November 1850

[Three lines crossed out.]

Commodore Henry E Ballard wer present captain John B Montgumery wher presnt and lieutenant Alfred Tayor Sailing Master Charles Morris and Boatswain Wm Watter wher present and Master Builder edward foster and Joseph pagget overseer of the yard hands wher present and that day they had a drum and a fife they played the fife so sweet that day that one of the colered men left capsel bars and went to dancin

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107       1851

The united States steamer frigate aleghany [Allegheny] left the washington navy yard saturday morne The u s steamer vixen was launched on 8 of march 1851 on saturday at washington navy yard and snow on the ground

it snowed on the 5 day of May 1851 on Monday

The first Brick wher laid for the Coper Rolling Mill in Washington navy yard by Mr Charles Ball on the 12 day of May 1851 on Monday at the north West coner and it wher built by contract by Mr george plant

The Corner Stone of the new Capitol of the United States was laid on 4 of July 1851 on friday by the president of the united states the Hon Millard filmore

The Salem [Note: no reference to a US Navy ship named Salem in DANFS until 1900] went on a excursion from the Washington Navy Yard with the BacaRites on the 13 day of August 1851 on Wensday

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108       1851

The united States Steamer Water Witch [3] left the washington navy yard on the 10 day of august 1851 on Saturday about half past ten o'clock under the command of Lieut David porter and second in command Sailing Master Charles Morris and 3 Assistance engineere P C Bogardus

Boat swain Wm Waters died in washington navy yard on the 7 of September 1851 on Sunday

The Death of a Son of Sar[geant] Major Mundel⁶⁷ marine Sam Mundell was shot by man by the name of wells at the Eastern Branch on the 17 day of September 1851 on Wensday wells was tried by the Distrit Court on Friday and wher Sentenced to Be hu[ng] on the 23 day of april 1852 on friday But the president of the u s had Mercy on his poor soul and contermaned the order and sentanced him to the u s penitentiary for life

The death of Com modore louis Warrington in Washington 12 of october 1851 on Sunday

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67. Joseph Mundell was born in Antrim County, Ireland, in 1809. He emmigrated to Philadelphia in 1827. Mundell enlisted first in the United States Army, serving eight years. He later joined the United States Marine Corps, where he served 25 years. Mundell served in both the Florida - Seminole and Mexican Wars. In all, he served for 33 years, rising to the rank of Marine Corps Quartermaster Sergeant. After his retirement he lived in Washington, DC, Ward 6 and went to work at the Washington Navy Yard as watchmen. He and his wife Martha had 11 children. Two of his daughters, Ellen and Anna, later worked for the US Treasury as currency folders. In 1851 in a notorious case referred to in Michael Shiner's Diary (see page 107), Joseph Mundell's 14 year old son Samuel Mundell was murdered by William Wells Marin in a dispute during a hunting excursion. Two of Joseph Mundell's other sons, Joseph Jr. and Jared Mundell, both served in the Civil War. After the war, Joseph Mundell's son, Jared, also went to work at the Washington Navy Yard where he labored for over half a century before retiring in 1920 as the yard's oldest male employee. Joseph Mundell died of consumption on 9 September 1874 and is buried at the Congressional Cemetery (R35/ 178).

109       1851

The Death of Mr Francis Barry Sr formly a check clerk in the washington navy yard he died in washington the 2 day December 1851 on Tuesday

The library of the united states capitol was Burnt on the on the 24 of December 1851 on Wensday and all the engineers and the Mechanics and laborers out of the Navy yard was orderd to the Capitol By order of Captain [Illegible] Powel of the u s navy and all the u s marines was ordered ther By Brigadiar general henerson to assist putting the fier out

The Death of Mr Noble Clemens a painter in Washington the 27 of December 1851 and Mr Clemens Was as finer Man as ever was free hearted and had cordial courtesy to evry Boddy

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   1852

The first pile that were Drove for the new saw Mill by the Construction of Capt Henry Benin a torpgraphacal engineer of the u s arm my at washington navy yard James phillips Master mason at the north Side of the new Ship house first of February 1852 on tuesday

after that the pile driving were turned over to Mr Joseph paget as usual

--[109.1]--

110       1852

The Aidedecamps of Cosuth came to the Washington Navy Yard on the 3 day of January 1852 on Saturday

general Cossuth and all his officers came down to the washington navy yard the 10 of January 1852 on Saturday and was treated with the greates of respect by the Com modore henry E. Ballard and all his officers⁶⁸

it snowed on the 5 day of January 1852 on Monday

it snowed on the 16 day of January 1852 on friday

The arival of the Mail Steamer Baltic on the 26 of February 1852 on friday in front of alexandria

The Mail Steamer Baltic left on the 3 day of March 1852 on Wensday

on the 15 day of March 1852 they takein the Water witch and anchored her on monday for to try experiments

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68. Henry E. Ballard was Commandant of the Washington Navy Yard from 1 October 1849 to 15 October 1852.

Lajes Louis Kossuth 1802-1894 was a noted Hungarian patriot who led a failed revolution against Russian rule. After the 1848 Hungarian Rebellion he went into exile and visited the United States. Kossuth was immensely popular and given an enthusiastic reception in Washington, DC.

111       1852

the first pile that were drove in the washington navy yard for the new marine railway⁶⁹ in the upper ship house by the construction of capt Henry Bennon of the torgraphical engineer Corps of the u s arm my and superintened By Mr Joseph Paget on the 29 day of march 1852 on monday

the first scow load of dirt that were takein from the new mud Machine By the Supentends of Mr Jospeh paget on the 30 of march 1852 on tuesday and was Brought in the Dock Between the lower Ship and The ordinance Shop

lieutenant John a Delran tried experi[ment] on the iron Steamer Water witch [2] at washington navy yard and he fierd into her and sunk her on the 1 day of april 1852 on thursday

laying

laying of the keel of the u s Wooden Steamer Water witch [3] on the 2 day of april 1852 on friday by order of the Constructor Mr Hen h over and Master Builder Mr idward foster at Washington Navy yard

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69. The Marine Railway was invented by Commodore John Rodgers in 1822 at the Washington Navy Yard. Basically the railway was a rail track used to move a vessel from the water. In Michael Shiner's era, manpower alone was used to move a vessel or ship up the railway, like iron rails to a ship house. This procedure was later mechanized with steam winches providing the motive power.

112       1852

the president of the united states Hon Millard filmo[more] visited the washington navy yard and his cabinet the 14 day of april 1852 on Wensday and they wher Received cordily By com modore Hen Ballard and his officers and a nautical [?] salute wher fiered

the arrival of the u s steamer vixen at washington navy yard under the command of lieut Smith on the 14 day of april 1852 on Wensday

the first pile that were Drove for the new ordance shop by the Superintenance of mr Joseph paget 24 may 1852 on monday

James Mc cuen had kee cap knack out of place the 25 of may 1852 on tuesday at the washington navy yard

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113       1852

The first Stone that wer laid for the ornas Shop in the washington navy yard on the 19 day of June 1852 on saturday By the instrucsions of Capt Henry Benam of the Toorgraphical Corps of army engineers and the master Bricklayer Mr cross and the quartermen mr Robert Doyle

The Death of the Hon Mr Henry Clay a Senator of the united states he Died on the 29 of June 1852 on tuesday in washington and he were a gentelman and aa a great statesman as ever step his foot in the Senate for they were nothing came that ever befor the Senate in mr Clays time that were Danarous to the cuntry But what he were Willing to put it down ameiately to Restore peace and harmony to all Both north and south east and West for 1850 they were a great excitement in Both houses of congress and the heaven know what would of Bein the Result then

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114       1852

if it not of Bein for Mr Clay and others that wished to preserved the uion for he wer tru to his trust

Died in washington adgutant general Rodger Jones of the u s arm my he died on the 15 of July 1852 on thursday and he wer a soilger and a gentelman

Washington navy yard The starting of the Copper Rolling Mill engine by mr Wm Ellis Chief engineer of the Navy Yard on the 18 day of august 1852 on wensday and Com modore Henry E Ballard were present and Capt L M powell wer present that day and and first lut Tilton were present and Mr John Ober were present Mr Wm ellis made great impresion in washington navy yard in regards to Machinery for the engines he made they seirved like they would work they Selves for when he came to the yard in 1833 they wher but one engine in the yard and when he left the yard in 1853 he left 7 engines all in operation

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115       1852

Washington City the Death of Sargent Major venoran Dolitsey a uncom missiond officer of the u s marine corps a Staff officer he died on the 8 day of october 1852 on friday

Commodore Charles W. Morgan takein command of the washington navy yard on the 12 of october 1852 on tuesday commodore Henry E Ballard and all his officers and master Workmen Received him with grate hounor as usual a salute wher fired for him and Commodore Henry E Ballard give his Command to him that day 12 October 1852 on tuesday⁷⁰

the united States Wooden Steamer water wiich wher launch by the Construction of Mr Henry Hover and Mr edward Potter and Mr John Smith quarterman on the 21 day of october 1852 on Thursday and Mr Rathes McCuller quarterman and all the yard wher present

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70. Captain Charles W. Morgan was Commandant of the Washington Navy Yard from 15 October 1852 to 5 January 1853.

116       852

The Death of the Hon Daniel Webster The Secretary of State he died the 24 day of october 1852 on Sunday at his Resid[ence] in Massachueusetts

The united States Steamer Frigate Fulton arrived at washington navy yard the 11 of December 1852 on Tuesday

on the 14 of December 1852 on Wensday an order sent down from the Navy Department By the Hon Hon P Kenady the Secretary of the navy For the Mechanics and labour to go to work at Sun Rise and on the morning of 15 the Bell Rang and all The men out at the gate and out of five hundred men there no more then nineteen or twenty men that caried out that order and before twelve o clock that same day an order came down contermaning that order and all the Mechanic and laborers went to work at Ther old usual hour⁷¹

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71. In 1852, then Secretary of the Navy John P. Kennedy, arbitrarily attempted to set aside President Van Buren's 1840 ten hour workday order, and in order to increase production at Charlestown and Washington Navy Yard issued his own order to begin the workday at both yards an hour earlier, or from sunrise to sunset. This effectively extended the workday to eleven hours. At the Charlestown Navy Yard, Secretary Kennedy's order resulted in a strike of three hundred mechanics and laborers. At the Washington Navy Yard, employees also began work stoppages. Secretary Kennedy's order was quickly rescinded just forty-eight hours after it was issued and both yards returned to work.

117       1852

The united States Steamer frigate fulton left washington navy yard on the 19 day of December 1852 on Sunday

The trial of the u s steamer Water witch engine and her Machinery at washington navy yard by William ellis Chief engineer ont on the 29 of December 1852 on Wensday

The Removal of the u s Steamer w ater witch with the Hon John P Kenady Secretary of the navy and Commodore Wm R Shubrick and capt L M powell and commander Thomas Page and chief engen neer Mr Wm ellis and sailing master Charles morris and Boat swain george Wilmuth they went down Below the Fort the 30 day of December 1852 on thursday

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118       1853

the Arrival of the united States Steam Frigate fulton at washington navy yard the 3 day of January 1853 on Monday

Died in Command of the washington navy yard Commodore Charles W Morgan on the 5 day of January 1853 on wensday at washington navy yard and were Buried on the 6 of Jany 1853 on thursday The Mechanics anserd the Roll in the morning and after diner stoped out and got ready for the fuernal

The Statute of the Hon Major general andrew Jackson ex president of the u s were dedicated in washington city on the 8 day of January 1853 on Saturday and he were as great man as lived and the general had no Respect of persons and were all ways Willing to give Justice to those that Deserved it as far as in his power and evry office he held he wher tru to his country

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119       1853

The united states steamer Water witch left the washington navy yard on the 14 day of Jany 1853 on friday and Run ground By the u S arsnal at Washing [ton]

The united states steamer fulton left the washington navy yard the 15 day of January on saturday with Hon Wm R King vic president of the united states and his famly

The united states steamer water Witch left the united States arsnal at washington on the 17 day of January 1853 on saturday morning at Half past six oclock

The arrival of the u S Steamer Alleghany in front of the U S arsenal at waShington the 17^th of october 1853 on monday and She ran aground there on Tuesday morning the 18^th of october 1853 and She got underway for to come up to the navy yard and she got as far as Blagdens wharf and She ran a ground again She never got up to the navy yard until six oclock at night and orders was Sent down to transfer her crew to the Receiving Ship at Norfolk

The u S Steamer Engineer [Note: DANFS states that the Engineer was a tug boat, not a steamer] under the command of Capt olmSted Taken the first Draft of the Alleghany Crew Down to Norfolk in the u S Steame Engineer under the command of Capt olmSted the 3^rd day of November 1853 on Thursday

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120       1853

A visit to the u S Steamer alleghany at the navy yard washington by the Honorable J G Dobbins the Secretary of the navy on the 22^ndof october 1853 on Satturday He was received Cordially by Capt H Paulding and Capt. L M Powell and his officers and a formal Salute of the guns was fired allowed to a Secretary of the navy he was Escorted on board the alleghany by Capt. L M Powell and the yards and Rigging all maned and that was done verry handsomely All to one thing They did not man the rigging as fast as I have Formaly Sien them The Death of george J young a Bricklayer a native of Baltimore fell about 30 feet from a Scaffold at the North west Corner of the new ordnance building the 26^th day of april 1853 on tuesday The death of Patrick Place a native of Ireland in the rolling of pile he was Jamied between the piles Along Sides of the New Ship house on the 6^th day of may 1853 on wensday the death of Charles King⁷² a boy who was Accidently Shot a son of Sergeant Tansil was shot by Sergeant Luskeys boy by a discharge of a musket the 10^th day of may 1853 on tuesday December 12^th 1853 the expolsion of the Boiler of the Steam Engine No 1 in the washington navy yard and scalded a apprentice in the machinst in Department by the name of Charles King and he died on the 15^th of December 1853 on Tuesday a son of the late martin ring The Second Stack that was built for the New Ordnance Building the first Brick that was laid by Mr J Rose for Mr. george H Plant undertaker on the 21th day november on monday 1853 She was finished and toped off the 14^th day of December 1853 on wensday the first pile that was drove for the new Black Smith Shop by Mr W P Sango Civil Engineer and Mr. Joseph Paggett master labour between the new ordnance shop and the mould loft the 10^th Day of December 18 1853 on Saturday Commenced laying the tracks of iron for the marine Railway by Capt W P Sango civil engineer and Mr Edward foster master carpenter the 28^th day of november 1853 on monday the first Stone that was laid for the new saw mill By Mr W P Sango and Mr James phillips

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72. Charles King was 19 years old. His father Martin King was a successful merchant.

121       1853

Master maSon the 10^th of December 1853 on Satturday The Honorable Brigadier general franklin pierce president of the u S paid a visit to washington navy yard the 14^th of December 1853 on the next day the u S steamer Vixen left theWashington navy yard and 6^th day of march 1853 on Sunday and Sailed Eighty or ninety miles down the river and one of her peipes Bursted and She returned back to the washington navy yard the 7^th of march 1853 on monday under the Command of Captain Sands and master C morris and passed midshipman C C Simms and Gunner [Page torn two words illegible] Departure of the u S Steamer Vixen Left the washington navy yard on the 10^th of march 1853 on Thursday A serious accident hapened to Mr Joseph padgett overseer of the yard hands in the new ordnance Shop by three boys Skylarking Throwing Stones at each other Struck Mr padgett on the Side and knocked him down Sprawling at bell ring out 12 o'clock one or two of his hands had to lead him home out of the Yard the 9^th day of September 1853 on friday the names of the three boys was william Crampton william Smoot and francis gartlin Mr Thomas woodward formily naval Store Keeper came to the washington navy yard the 9^th Day of July 1849 on monday and left washington navy yard the 11^th of September 1853 on thursday henry GetSandiner died on the 3^rd day of November 1853 on Thursday may god bless him and I hope that he is at rest on the 21^st novy 1853 on Satturday in trying the pumps to See how they would they would work to pump out the Docks by Mr Wellis Chief Engineer at the Same Time the old Engine house Caught on fire in the twinklin of an eye all the officers of the yard and master workman and foreman and quarterman and fireman and mechanics and labours of all classes was Present and they distinguished the fire and washed the old House as clean as a pin on the 20^th of June 1853 on tuesday the engine house of the Dock at the upper Ship House took fire the Second time all the officers of the yard and all the engines was there and all the master workman And all the quarterman mechanics and labours was there

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122       1851

Mr John Tucker a quarterman to his father Mr James Tucker [three lines are heavily crossed out and illegible] They washed that house that day and the water Swept him away but he stayed and fought the fire until every Spark was out The post stone that Was layed at the upper Ship house by the conStruction engineer M S Rosencrantz civil engineer for the new rail way at the North West gable end of the old Ship house the 13 day of July 1853 on wensdays [by] James phillips master mason The death of Wm J Barry 22 april 1853 on friday a fine and well disposed young man and in the prime of His youth may the lord receive his soul in heaven The Son of the late francis Barry formerly a Chief clerk of the washington Navy yard formrly he was a Clerk in navy Store in washington Thursday the 4^th of august 1853 the italians brig antagult arrived At the washington navy with two Statues for the u S Capitol Which they Called in Spanish Edelppike they was Carved in italy for the use of the u S Capitol the pieces of marble for the foundation of the Statutes were hauled by Mr Wm Clarks team eight fine Horses as ever was put in harness on the 9 day of augustus 1853 on Tuesday The first visit of that was paid to the washington navy yard by the honorable Brigadier general franklin Pierce president of the united States and the honorable J C Dobbins Secretary of the navy Commodore H paulding and Captain L M powell and Lieutenant E G Tilton and all the officers received them cordially with a salute to twenty one guns C morris and Lieutenant grayson of the marines M S nobel Chaplin and Thomas woodward naval Store keeper G Herold Chief Clerk to the Store keeper on the 6^th of august 1853 on Satturday on the 6^th day of July 1853 the first Brick that was layed for the New lodge the odd fellows hall fronting 8^th Street west of the marine Barracks on the navy yard by John Rose quarterman⁷³ and G H Plant Master mason on Tuesday on the 4^th of July 1853

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73. John Rose was appointed to his position before the War of 1812. He was paid a salary of $1,500.00 per year.

123           1853

There was excurSion of the navy School Children under the inStruction of Mr J H Peak⁷⁴ Mr william Dixon and Mr S marks [The following two sentences have been crossed out and are not legible] tha I have not the time to mention [illegible] the u s arsenal a Cross the eastern Branch and I have been informed that they had a blessed time of it

The death of George Edwards formily a member of the Marine band and he use to play the Bugle and he was a Splendid Player as ever was heard on the Bugle he was liked by General Henderson he attended him often as the Doctor did and Lieutenant Charles henderson visited him until his death He has left to mourn his lost a wife and three Children Him and his wife use to work industrious to gethr he A industious hard working man the 3^rd day of June on Tuesday Captain Hiram Paulding taken Command of the washington navy yard on the 31th day of January 1853 on monday And he was received by Capt L M. Powel and all his officers First Lieutenant E G Tilton Lieutenant J A Dahlgren Sailing master Charles morris and passed midshipman H C Simms and Mr George wilmouth Boatswain. Clerk D mccomb chief clerk Y D Beule and Richard Barry Clerk of the Yard Clerk to the Purser Mr ellis Chief Engineer James Tucker master Black Smith able J davis master plumber and edward foster assistant Constructor BB Curran master Joiner a woodward master Blockmaker and John Peake master painter James A. mcCathran Master gun carriage maker Mr J padgett over Seer of the Yard Hands A salute of Thirteen guns was fired the usual salute The trying of the new patent Boiler of the U.S. Steamer Vixen by W M ellis chief engineer of the washington navy yard under the Command of C w morris Sailing master of the yard on the 9^th day of february 1853 on wensday They went nearly 44 miles Down the river the Same Day⁷⁵

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74. George Edwards was a US Marine Corps' musician, 41 years of age, and lived in the 6th Ward with his wife Mary and three children. The George Edwards family lived one house away from Michael Shiner.

75. John H. Peake was Michael Shiner's Forman after the death of Phillip Inch. John H. Peake was born 1817 in the District of Columbia. In the 1850 census for the District of Columbia, Peake stated he owned his own residence (which was valued at $900.00) in Ward number 6. Peake was married, with one child, and continued to work for the Washington Navy Yard for many years. Peake later opened a paint store and (according to the 1870 census), by 1870 he owned real estate valued at $6,000.00. He died sometime after 1880.

Captain Hiram Paulding was Commandant of the Washington Navy Yard from 21 January 1853 to 30 June 1855.

124       1853

The montgomery guards under the command of Captain Barton Key⁷⁶ And the Boon Rifleman under captain M E Bright paid a visit to Baltimore on Monday the 10^th of September 1853 Mr william Ellis resigned his Situation he was the Chief engineer of the washington navy yard on Satturday the 10^th day of September 1853 Mr Francis Nerhany taken charge of the Navy Store on Thursday 1853 first of September the u S Steamer San francisco [Note: According to DANFS, this was not a Navy ship.] got lost on her way to California with u S Troops on board and amongst the lost was Colnonel washington and major Taylor and his wife on the 24^th day of December 1853 on Saturday⁷⁷ The death of major Bliss Son in law of the later president general Zachaih Taylor The 5^th day of august 1853 on friday Mr william Clark teams hauled the first statues that came to the navy yard in the [Italian] brig atarguld for the united States capitol the 11^th of august 1853 on Thursday then he hauled the Second the 12^th day of august 1853 on friday from the italian Brig at the washington navy yard the Engineer by Captain Olmstead and carried through the united State arsenal to the united States Prision in washington on the 20^th day of march 1853 on monday for there mutinous Conduct the Death of Doctor James overstreet a Son Mrr Easby the 29^th of February 1853 on Thursday in Sanfrancisco

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76. Philip Barton Key was born in 1818, in Georgetown, in the District of Columb, and died 27 February 1859, in Washington, DC. He was the son of Francis Scott Key, the author of the lyrics to the National Anthem. Philip Barton Key was for a number of years the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia. In 1859 Congressman Daniel Sickles shot and killed Phillip Barton Key for having had an affair with his wife, Teresa Bagioli Sickles. The murder took place on Lafayette Square, just across Pennsylvania Avenue from the White House. Sickles was acquitted on the basis of temporary insanity in one of the most controversial trials of the 19th century.

77. On Christmas Day, 1853, the San Francisco, was disabled and on 6 January 1854, she foundered with a loss of more than 200 lives. Upwards of 500 passengers were saved principally by the splendid work of the following ships: The Three Bells of Glasgow, the Antarctic from San Francisco and the Bark Kilby.

125       1853

on the Second day of may 1853 on monday the united States Marines under the Command of Captain grayson marched over to the Ireland with Lieutenant Henderson and a volunteer company with their subordinate officers to shoot at target for a Silver Cup and Sergeant Hamilton Won the Cup I am highly Delighted to hear the united States marines at these close shootings won the Cup for I place the utmost of Confidence in all the united States officers Both the army and navy of the Soldiers and Sailors for when we are all aSleep at night from our Daily occupations those men are allways on there watch tower in the army rank and file and at Sea on land the new organized volunteer Company of the District of Columbia had a parade and fought a Sham battle on the 19^th day of october 1853 on wensday

The arrival of the mail Steamer Eericson off alexandria on the 21^st day of february 1853 on monday And She was visted by the President of the united States the honorable Brigadier General franklin Pierce and the honorable Mr everett Secretary of State and the honourable J P kenady Secretary of navy And Commodore morris and commodore Shubrick and Commodore J D Sloat and members of Congress

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126       Jan 4^th 1854

The Starting of the Engine of the new Ordnance Shop on Wensday Constructor Lloyd H Paulding present at the time Captain S M Powell first Lieut. Joseph Lammon and Chief Engineer Henry Hunt Capt W P Sanger Lieut J A Dahlgren was present then. The Engine was moved out side on account of the pounding and making much noise and then she started again on the 25 day of April 1854 Tuesday by Matt Hunt Chief Engineer

U S Steam Frigate Fulton in front of the U. S. Arsenal and Arrived at Washington Navy Yard the 15^th day of April 1854 on Wednesday & left the Washington Navy Yard the six day of May 1854 on Saturday under the Command of Capt. J. R. Mitchel The first Brick that was layed for the New Ordnance Brass Foundry on the 14^th day of March 1854 at the most easterly corner of the Ordnance Building on Tuesday by Mr. John Rose a foreman of Mr. George Plant under takin the first Brick that was layed for the foundation for the Engine for the new Saw Mill by Mr. James Phillips the master mason the 19^th day may 1854 on Friday the second Commence laying of the Bricks for th new saw mill by Mr. James Phillips South West corner of the saw mill the 20^th twenty day of May 1854 on Saturday under the Constructor Capt. W. P. Sango

The Raising of the Stem Post of the U.S. Steam Frigate Minnasota at the Washington Navy yard by the Constructor S.M. Powell and Edward Sloan and Sailing master C.W. Morris and boatswain George Wilmot and Mr Brooks quarterman and journey man Ship Carpenters and apprentice Class of Carpenters and Labours on the 22 day of November 1854 on wensday

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127       (1854)

The first Log of Timber that was Sawed by the Saws of new Saw Mill by Constructor Mr Henry Harris and Mr George Wilson quarterman Engineer Mr Brown on the 24 day of November 1854 on Friday The first piles that was drove for the foundation of the New Trip Hammer for the Anchor Shop to the eastward of the Boiler Shop Southward of the Brass of the machine shop and Setting North west of the Copper railing mill Sitting Eastward of the Boring Mill by Mr W.P. Sango Constructing Engineer and Mr Joseph Padgett Oversee of the yard Hands on the first day of December 1854 on Friday.

The Departure of the U.S. Steamer Frigate Fulton from the Washington Navy yard under the Command of J.R. Mitchell and his officers on the 8^th day of December 1854 on Friday

The Starting of the New Saw mill Engine the Saws for good i hope under the Superintendence of Mr. Charles E. Williams the Timber inspector of the washington Navy yard the 11^th day of December 1854 on Monday

The Raising of the Rudder part of the U. S. Steam Frigate Minasota [Minnesota] by the Constructor S.M. Pook and Mr Edward Foster and the quarterman and the journey man an the Ship Carpenters and Laborers the 18^th day of December 1854 on monday

The first part of the keel for the new Steamer Minasota was raised by W. S. Pook and Mr Edward Foster and the quarterman the first day of November 1854 on wensday

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128       (1854)

The Last Rafters for the addition new Ship House at the East Gable End were put in place the 24^th day of Oct 1854 on Tusday Sailing Master C.W. Morris and Mr George Wilmoth and Mr Joseph Padgett Overseer of the yard Hands was present a joiner by the name of John Keithly fell backwards off that Ship on the 24^th day of Oct 1854 on Tuesday

The first Brick that was Layed for new Black Smith Shop by the Constructing Engineer Mr P. S. Sango and mr Phillips master mason on the 30^th day of October 1854 on Monday

Raising of the Stern Post of the New Steam Frigate Minnesota at the Washington Navy Yard by the Constructor Mr. S.M. Pook and Mr. Edward Forest and Master C.W. Morris and Mr. George Wilmot the 10^th day of November 1854 on Friday.

The first piece of framing for the extension New Ship House was hoisted by the Sailing master C.W. Morris and the boatswain Georg Wilmot the second day of of Oct 1845 on monday B.B. Curran and Luis Maruson quarterman

The first stone that was Layed for the New Black Smith Shop by Capt W.P. Sanger to Eastward of the new Saw Mill James Philips master mason on the (6) six day of Oct 1854 on Friday

The First Rafters that was Hoisted for the Extension of the New Ship House at the East Gable End on the 20^th day of Oct 1854 on Saturday by the Orders of First Lieutenant Joseph Lammons and Sailing Master C.W. Morris and Boatswain George Wilmot and B.B. Curran master Joiners and Luis Marcons quarterman and Mr Jos Padgett Overseer of the yard Hands

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129       (1854)

The first Starting of the new Saw mill Engine on the 29^th day of Aug 1854 Henry Hunt and George Wilson and M.R. Bean Engineer George Cunningham quarterman on Tuesday

The First piles that was drove for the addition to the Slip in the New ship House W.P. Sango Civil Engineer of the Washington Navy yard for the New Steam Frigate Minasota and by the Superintendence of Mr Joseph Padgett the Overseer of the yard Hands on the 26^th day June 1854 on Monday

The first-commence Laying of the New Steam Frigate Keel by the Constructor Mr. S.M. Pook Mr. Edward Foster Mr. John Smith after they had got the keel dressed out- plain they Closely Examined it by the Constructors and it was in good condem immediately i am only givin a Small Siz the Shop was Commence on the 14^th June 1854 on Wensday

The first Stone was Layed for the addition of the Slip by the Constructor Capt. P.S. Sango and James Phillips master mason on the (5)^th day of July 1854 on Wensday

The First Commence Framing of the Steam Friget Minsotato [Minnesota] the 14^th day of november 1854 on Tuesday by the Orders of the Constructors Mr. S. Pook and Mr. Edward Foster and thir quarterman and Sailing master Morris Mr George Wilmot Boatswain

The first - pile that was drove for the New Saw Mill by the Constructors Capt H. Brenham Topographical Engineer of the U.S. Army Civil Engineers of the Washington Navy yard and James Phillips master mason on the North Side of the New Ship House on the first (1) day of Feb 1854 Friday

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130       (1854)

The death of Com John Downs of the U.S. Navy died at the Charlestown Navy yard on the 11^th day of Aug. 1854 on Friday

The death of Brigadier genl Nathan Touson of the U.S. Army on the 20^th day of July 1854 on Thursday he was ages old as ever Lived at Canda duran the War 1812.

The death of Capt. W. Esby on the 28^th day of July 1853 on Saturday

The Hon. Brigadier genl. Franklyn Pierce President of the United States payed a visit to the Washington Navy yard and the Hon. J.E. Dobson Secretary of the Navy and the Hon Maj genl. Cass U.S. Senator and genl Pierce Secretary Mr Webster and Several Layde went down in company with them from the Washington Navy Yard on the U.S. Steamer Engineer to visin to old point Comfort the President was onard with the former. Salute of the amount of 21 Guns was received Cordially by Commodore H Paulding and Capt. M. Powell and Joseph Lammon first Lieut and master C.W. Morris all this is in Dress uniform on the 23^rd day of June 1854 on Friday

The United States Steamer fulton arrived at the Washington Navy Yard the 3^rd of july 1854 on monday under the Command of Captain J R Mitchel

The Death of Mrs Anna Mshon the 4^th of December 1854 on Monday She was a daughter of the late Francis Barry Sr

The Sun and the moon fell in Contact with each other on the 26^th day of May 1854 on Friday Evening at four o clock and they Was not invisible as we expected

The first day of June 1855 on Friday it rained all day and it rained 2^nd day of June 1855 on Satturday and it Commenced Clearing away at. 6 oClock

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131       (1854)

The Death of George Noble he fell from the stack of the ordnance Brass Gun foundry at the north East of the upper part of the Stack on the 9^th day of June 1854 on friday and he died the 10^th day of June on Satturday he was a Smart and good conductive young man may the lord Bless him and have mercy on his soul and he was rigger by profession and an English man by Birth and he leaves a wife and two Childness

The Death of Mrs Margaret Little a Sister to Mrs Esby Late Wife of Capt. W. Esby on the 20^th day of July 1854 on Thursday

A Sade accident occurrdin washington Navy yard in the iron Foundry in Cassing a large Cylinder for the u. S. Steam Friget Fulton and through Some misfortune or Reastin it Exploded greadly for while althou by the assistance of Kind Providence Mr Bland Stuck to it and his men with great Silvance Commodore H Paulding and his Family was ther all the officers of the yard and there Family awas there thanks to the kind Providence above there was nobody hurt There Capt. J.S. Powell was there first Luant Joseph Lamman Sail master C.W. Morris and Major Williams From the navy yard gate Commanding of the Marines and the officers from Marine Barricks with the Marines all the master workman and quarterman were present and they Fought the Fire with great Courage and the differenc Fire Compys of all Classes of the Dis Columbia was there and assited to Exting the Fire there was about $80 thousand dollars of Government Property was Saved that day that including the pattern and Bouring Mill and it was on the 11^th day of Aug. 1859 Friday

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132       (1854)

The Second Effort was made to Cast a Cylinder for the U.S. steamer Frigit Fulton and it was a total Failor and the Hon J C Dobbin Secretary of the navy Said after that Failar it Should be cast in washington navy yard if he had to Send to Europe to get a man to do it . [One half line is crossed out] on the 12^th September 1854 on Tuesday so the Cylinder for the U.S. Steamer Frigit Fulton was Casted by the Superintendence of Mr H Hunt Chief Engineur of the Washington navy yard and mr Bland and mr andrew lenord on the 7. day of october 1854 on a Saturday

The nebraska Bill the bill Passed the united states Senate on the 26^th day of may 1854 on friday at 12 oClock at night and one Hundred Guns was fired as a Salute the 26^th day of may 1854 on friday those Guns was Brass pieces 12 pounders Boat Howitzer and were cast in the washington navy yard under the instructions of Lieutenant J A Dahlgren

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133       1855

BenJamin mcCathran⁷⁸ got his hand Caught under one of the lines of the U S Steamer minaSota in the washington navy yard Between the lower Ship House and the new Block Shop the 9 Day of february 1855 on friday a Son of Mr James McCathran his age was 21 years and six months a Bricklayer by Trade and served his time apprenticeship under Mr. George Plant and died on friday morning at Three oclock the 23rd of february 1855

James Baker a Ship Carpenter a native of Baltimore Fell from the Starboard Side of the Steamer minaSota near the Starboard quarter about 30 feet on the 21 day of february 1853 on wensday in the Washington Navy yard

The first Stone That was Layed for the new Trip hammer by the orders of Captain W.P. Sanger and James Phillips Master mason in the washington navy yard on the 116^th day of february on friday 1855

The house of the honorable Colonel Thomas H Benton Caught a fire on the 27^th Day of february 1855 on Tuesday and it was ConSumed a Great many valuable papers and Books and it was so Cold that water would Freeze in the hose as fast as they Would pump it they Could have Saved more of the house only for the Scarcity of water.

They finiShed framing of the u S Steame frigate mineSota at the washington navy yard the Constructor S M Pook and mr edward foster and their Quarterman and the last after cant peice of wood was Shiped on the first day of February 1855 on Tuesday on the larboard Side

The death of Mr Robert Mills arChitect of the Public Buildings a native of South Carolina he died at washington the 3^rd day of March 1855 on Satturday

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__________

78. Many shipyard families maintained a tradition of working at Washington Navy Yard. The McCathran family served at the Yard until the 1940s.

134       1854

The Casting of a Cylinder of the u S Steamer minaSota by the order of Mr H hunt Chief Engineer of the washington navy yard And Mr W H Bland and andrew leonard quarterman Commodore H Paulding was present and Captain Thomas Petigru and first Lieutenant Joseph Lanman was present and Sailing master G morris and Mr A G Davis maSter Plumber and Mr Joseph Padgett over Seer of the yard Hands and a great many other Spectators and it was Cast HandSomely with out any accident the 3^rd day of March 1855 on Satturday ⁷⁹

The first Stone that was layed for Building of the new Trip hammer by the order of Captain W P Sanger Mr James Philips master mason the Eastward of the Iron Foundry Sitting north of The anchor and machine Shop the 2^nd day of april 1855 on monday

Setting Down of the anvil Block by purchase that was Rigged by Sailing master C.W. morris and Mr George wilmoth Boatswain and under the Superintendence of the Captain W.P. Sangor and the Chief engineer Mr henry Hunt and M. George Wilson Foreman and Mr. Joseph Padgett over Seer of the yard hands the 4^th day of april on Wensday 1855

First Commenced Laying of pipes for the Gas in the Washington navy yard under the Superintendance of Captain Sanger the Constructing Engineer the 4th day of april 1855 on monday

There was a Couple of gentleman came the washington Navy yard on the 7^th day of april 1855 on Satturday With a qurk for a experiment he proceded South of the North West end of the new ordnance Shop then running north of the ordnance Shop Then turning east again north of the rocket Shop

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___________

79. Casting was always dangerous at Washington Navy Yard since super heated metals could crack the mold or slop over and burn the workers and destroy the cast.

135       1855

The new trip hammer was placed in it poSition on the 10^th dayof april 1855 on tuesday and it was completed by a young man by the name of Coffee from Philadelphia on the 12 day of april 1855 on thursday

The Commenced Laying of the granite for the new Black Smith Shop on the 20^th day of april 1855 on friday By the Constructor W P Sanger Cheif Engineer And James phillips master mason at the south West corner of the old Black Smith Shop

The first Bricks that was Layed for the new BlackSmith Shop by the orders of the Captain W. P. Sanger James phillips master mason the north west Corner of the old Black Smith Shop the 21th Day of april 1855 on thursday

The Staging gave way inside of the united States Steamer Minasota and no person was Seriously hurt thank the Lord on the 28^th day of april 1855 on Satturday

Captain French Forrest Taken Command of the washington NavyYard on the 30^th day of June 1855 on monday Captain H Paulding and his officers Received him Cordially With the naval Salute and Captain Paulding give up His commnand to him

The first Brick that was Layed for the Engine house that Sets north west of the Copper Rolling mill by order of the Constructor Captain W P Sanger and James phillips master maSon on the 6^th day of august 1855 on monday

The Death of Commodore H E Ballard of the united States Navy on the 23^rd of may 1855 on wenesday at his residence at annapolis md Bell field

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136       1855

The united States Steamer frigute minaSota Propeller was Casted in the washington navy yard on the 19^th day of october 1855 on Friday Commodore French Forrest was present Captain Thomas Pettigrew Lieutenant Joseph Lanman Lieutenant G B Balch Sailingmaster C E morris Chief Engineer Mr henry Hunt Mr W H Bland and mr A G David master Plumber and mr Andrew Lenord and mr Joseph Padgett and Different master workman

This was not the first Propeler That was Casted in The Washington navy yard But I was under The impression That It was the Largest one the only Consolation That it was Cast HandSomely and no accident

The u S Steam Frigate minasota Propeller was Shiped Before She was Launched on the 23^rd day of November 1855 on friday and was unShiped before She was Launched on the 30^th day of November 1855 on friday

The u S Steam frigate minaSota was Launched in the Washington navy yard on the first of December 1855 on Satturday The Honorable Brigadier General franklin Pierce President of the united States and the Honorable W S Marcy Secretary of State and the Honorable J C Dobbins Secretary of the navy And the Honorable Jefferson Davis Secretary of the Treasure an Those menand a great number of foreign miniSters Was Present

Com modore Frenc Forrest Commodore C mc Cauley Commodore Joseph Smith Commodore John H Aulick and Captain Joseph Lanman and Lieutenant Thomas J hunter and Lieutenant G Balch and Different officers of the navy was present

--136--

137       1855

I have Seen Several ships Launched of Diferent classes in the Washington navy yard and have always seen them set up the ship three times before launching The articles that Mr. Pook had was Battering Rams and they was So Powerful that the Ship needed no setting up the third time and it was a beautiful launch as ever I seen in all my life and there was great Preparations made on Board of the united States Steamer allegany for the reception of visitors on the North side of the Ship House the funniest of it was before the Ship was launched the Alleghany hung underneath one of the pile on her larboard side which was never bringing her on her beam end and there was nearly five hundred lady's and gentleman was on her at that time and there was a great Confusion among them for a little while there was a number of men sent on board of the alleghany by Captain Joseph Lanman to relieve the alleghany from the mud after righted her self the whole party was composed and on the opposite side of the alleghany and in the yard generally there was thousands of Spectators to view the launch of the united States Steam Frigate Minasota the united States Steamer Engineer Layed off and on the South side of the New Ship House with the President and his cabinet witnessing the launching of the united States Steam Frigate MinaSota The u S Steamer Engineer Was under the command of the Captain William S Lovell a Son in Law of Major General John R quitman. After the Launch of the minaSota the u S Steamer Engineer came along side of the wharf the south Side of the Ship House near to the Shears and Landed the President and his Cabinet the marines was ordered to the right into line under the command of Captain Robert TanSel and the Boon Rifleman to the left under the command of first lieutenant henry ober and three Splendid Rolls from the Drums and a handsome present of arms from the u S marines and the Boon Rifleman

--137--

138       1855

Then They proceeded to Commodore French Forrest⁸⁰ quarters accompanied By the marine Band the President and his Cabinet and members of Congress and Senators and Representatives and officers of Different regiments all of them Partaken of a fine Dinner at the Commodores that day the Chief Constructor of the united States Navy Mr John Lenthal and Mr S m Pook the first Day of December 1855 on Satturday

There was a Little misunderstanding in putting the Ship on the Stocks And They had to Raise the ways Some two feet And a half aft and lower them forward and where She when out She Sprung Some of her Beams and Broke Some of her knees and Thank the kind providence that it was no worse on the first of December 1855 on Satturday

There was a Fine dinner furnished by the Government to the mechanics and Labours of all Classes in the mould Loft in the washington navy yard after the launch of the united States Steamer frigate minasota and they had a Plenty of to eat and they Conducted them Selves well as any Men as I have ever seen in all my life Commodore Forrest French And his officers Deserves the greatest Credit for preparing for the launching of the vessel and for warning all persons to keep out of danger and with the assistance of kind Providence every thing went off beautifully and handsomely on that day an not a soul was hurt and the mechanics that was selected by the Superintend the Dinner was from Different Departments The dinner was furnished by a man out side the navy yard and it was a splendid one And Those mechanics that that was Selected from Different Departments in the navy yard they acted as a committee and conducted the whole affair well in the first of December 1855 on Satturday

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80. Commodore French Forrest was the Commandant of Washington Navy Yard from 30 June 1855 to 15 August 1855.

139       1855

And after the Dinner was over a parcil of Bread and meat An other eatables was Give to me and when I got out Side of the Navy yard and coming up Six Street and I had some on my Shoulder and the Some Grease was running all over my Clothes and I happened to stop for to rest my Self and then was a whole Company of Dogs following me I tried to Drive them Back and they Surrounded me and was about to take me prisoner

But I retreated to my Camp in the Yard in good order one of the U S Steamer minasota boilers was shipped on the 6^th day of December 1855 on Tuesday by order of Captain Lanman and First Lieutenant Thomas T hunter and 2^nd Lieutenant J D Balch And mr henry hunt Chief Engineer of the washington navy yard and mr Joseph Padgett over Seer of the yard hands

The united States Steamer minasota was hauled along side of the Wharf after her launch the 2^nd day of December 1855 on Sunday by orders of Commodore French Forrest and Captain Joseph Lanman and first Lieutenant Thomas t hunter and 2nd Lieutenant J.B. Balch and Mr Joseph M Padgett Over Seer of the yard hands

The first Bricks that was laid for the Shop for the Trip hammer in washington navy yard by orders of Captain W.P. Sanger Civil Engineer and James phillips master mason the 30^th day of May 1855 on wensday

The first StoinggerS that was raiSed in the new Black Smith Shop by Mr B.B. Curran master Joiner and Mr Louis mareon quaterman and Rober Teacham quatermen The 31th day of may 1855 on Thursday

The arrival of the united States Light house Cutter at Washington navy yard on the 30^th day of may 1855 on wensday

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140       1855

The Death of Brigadier General Brashaw formly he belong to the united States army and at one time Commanding officrs at fort Monroe He died on the 18^th day of may 1855 on friday at Saint Louis

The death of Lieutenant Colonel Samuel miller of the u S Marine Corps he died in Command of the Philadelphia Station the 9^th day of December 1855 on Sunday He was great soldier as ever lived for the 24^th day of August 1814 on Wednesday I seen him with my own eyes marching to Blades Barge [Bladensburg MD] to meet the enemy like a man and he got wounded and may the Lord Bless him and I hope that his soul is at rest in Heaven for he died with the honour of his Country

The Death of Commodore Charles [illegible] of the united States navy at washington DC on the 24^th day of January 1

The Death of mary ann McperSon the 24^th day of January 1855 on Satturday and she was a aunt of the first wife of major calkins of the U S marine corp and SHe was a well Disposed Lady in the Principal and respecability may the Lord Bless her

The Death of Major martin vanburen Jr of the u S army the 20^th of march 1855 on Tuesday he died in Paris

The Sword of the Honorable major General andrew Jackson was presented to the united States houses of Congress the Senate and the house of reperesentatives The Battle of new orleans the 8^th day of January 1815

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141       1855

on the 19^th day of December 1854 on wensday the old veteran offiicers of the war of 1812 from the State of new hampShire Paid a visit to the washington navy yard and was escorted to the yard by the united States marines and the marine Band under the Command of Captain Tan Sel and other young officers of the marine Corps And was Conducted through the Diferent Departments in the yard and then they were escorted to the Commodores quarters by Commodore French Forrest and Captain Joseph Lanman and first Lieutenant Thomas Y Hunter and then was entertained there with the utmost respect and then they Left the Navy yard Captain John A Dahlgren give them a Beautiful Salute by orders of Commodore French Forrest

The Launching of the united States Steam frigate Roanoke at the Gosport [Norfolk] navy yard the 13^th day of December 1855 on Thursday I am sorry to say that she met with a serious accident in Launching of her she had such a Sudden Jar that She filled with water soon after She Was Launched

--141--

142       1856

The arrival of the united States Steamer fulton With her officers and crew at the washington navy yard on the 30^th of June 1856 on monday

The arrival of the united States mail Steamer in front of the united States arsenal at washington DC on the 24^th day of July 1856 on Thursday and laid There until the 27^th day of July 1856 on Sunday And then She Left for new york

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143       1856

The Death of a young man by the name of JackSon mcCoy A Watchman in the Washington navy yard on board the u S Steam frigate minaSota he fell from the after olive[?] Deck off a Beam head foremast Down in the Kelson about four oClock in the morning the 16^th day of January 1856 on monday And died the 19^th of January 1856 on Satturday An buried the 20^th day of January 1856 on Sunday and the Death of Commodore Charles morris of the united States navy in washington the 27^th Day of January 1856 on Sunday

A fire Broke out in the Tank Shops in the washington Navy Yard on the 7^th day of February 1856 on Thursday about half past seven o'clock in the morning it was discovered by the watchman by the Name of Lewis the anacotia fire company was There and Exercised all the energy in extinguishing the fire the Columbia Fire Company was present and the PerSeverance fire company was Present and all So the american fire company was present

Commodore French Forrest was present and Captain Joseph Lanman and first Lieutenant Thomas J hunter and 2^nd Lieutenant G.B. Balch and Dr Edwards was present And master workman and the quarterman of the yard and the mechanics and Laborers of all classes was present and worked with vigor in trying to extinguish the fire on the 7^th day of February 1856 on Thursday.

Com modore French Forrest after the fire was out Gave all the mechanics a half of the day to change their Clothes and dry them Selves on the 7^th day of February 1856 on Thursday

Washington navy yard april the 11^th on friday 1856 The united sSates Iron Steamer allegany was hauled up on the new marine Railway in fine Style it was the first vessel in that improvement And I under Stand that She is to be the fitted out for a receiving Ship Com modore French Forrest and Captain Joseph Lanman

--143--

144       1856

And first Lieutenant J hunter and 2^nd Lieutenant G. B. Balch And Captain Sango and constructor Mr Pook and the Boatswain Mr Brooks and Mr foster and Mr Joseph Padgett over Seer of the yard hands All was present on that day to take active part in hauling the Ship on the Railway the Beauty of it the trucks of the Cradle was Greesed With marShal music which made the alleghany Ride the Storm Sweetly on the 11^th day of april 1856 on friday

The Base Split of the united States Steamer frigat minaSota Was Shiped at washington navy yard the 18^th day of april 1856 on wensday Captain Sango Lieut Lanman and first Lieutenant G.B. Balch and the Boatswain was present

The Rudder was Shiped on the united States Steam Frigate minaSota on the 4^th Day of april 1856 on friday

A watchman by the name of Thomas Rigsby fell Down the hatchway of the u S Steamer minaSota forward of the Steerage of the Birth Deck and aft of the Ships pumps on Satturday night Between 12 and one oClock on the 29 day of march

The Arrival of the united States Steamer Dispatch at the washington navy yard on the 9^th day of april 1856 on wensday

Shiping of the u S Steam frigate minaSota Foremast and Her TouSSel Tree on the 19^th day of april 1856 on monday Commodore French Forrest and Capt Joseph Lanman first Lieutenant J hunter 2^nd Lieutnant Balch and Constructor mr Pook and assitant Builder mr E foster and Mr Brooks BoatSwain and Mr Joseph Padget over Seer of the yard hand wase present

--144--

145       1856

The u S Steam frigate minaSota Propeler Shiped in its Proper Position on the 28^th day of april on monday 1856

on the 29^th day of april 1856 on Tuesday it was tryed with a Jack Screw and made Two or Three Revolutions

The united States Steam frigate mainaSota main mast Was Shiped the 30^th day of april on wensday 1856

The Cross Tree and Trussel Tree was put over the head of the main mast on the 2^thday of may 1856 on friday Commodore French Forrest and Captain Lanman and first Lieutenant J Hunter and 2^nd Lieutenant Balch And Mr Pook the Constructor and Mr Brooks the Boatswain and Mr Edward foster and Mr Joseph Padgett was present

The Starting of the Propeler of the u S Steam frigate mainaSota by Steam on the 2th day of may 1856 on friday by the Chief Engineer of the washington navy yard Mr henry Hunt And Mr michael Bright quarterman and Mr George Cunningham and Mr Benson mckenny quarterman and the Propeler and machinery Worked handSomly

Lauching of the u S Steamer alleghany off the new marineway on the 2rd day of may 1856 on friday and Two men natives of ireland Was thrown from the Cap Stand and was Severely hurt

The mizen mast of the u S Steamer minaSota was put on Board the 6^th day of may 1856 on tuesday

and then it was Stoped on the 7^th day of may 1856 on wensday

The Death James Barry a Son of Francis Barry Senior he died in washington on the 19^th day of June 1856 on Thursday

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146       1856

The arrival of the u S Steamer water witch at the washington navy yard under the command of Captain Page the 8^th Day of may 1856 on Thursday

The Honorable J C Dobbins the Secretary of the navy visited the washington navy yard and Commodore Joeseph Smith And The Chief Engineer mr martin and they was received by Com modore French Forrest and his officers on the 9^th Day of may 1856 on friday and he was escorted on Board of the u S Steam frigate MinaSota for the purpose of see in the machinery work on that day

on the 10^th day of may 1856 on Satturday the machinery worked the whole day out and was Superintended by the Chief Engineer of the washington navy yard Mr herny hunt

A Nail Cutting machine was Recommended by Mr henry Hunt Chief Engineer of the washington navy yard and Mr Matthew Mcnally and it was approved of by the Department and Commodore French Forrest and his officers and it was tryed on the new Copper Rolling mill and it Proved to be good on the 9^th day of may 1856 on friday

They commenced putting the first Standing Riggin on the u S Steam Frigate minasota over her formast the Bolsters on first and then Pennant on the 21th day of may 1856 on wensday

The united State Steamer alleghany was towed away by the u S Steamer Engineer under the Command of Captain Page to Baltimore for to releive the receiving Ship untario [Ontario] on the 26^th day of may 1856 on Satturday

All the u S Steam frigate minaSota Spars was made at the washington navy yard by the master Spar maker mr Joseph Lane and I beleive Not a hairs Breath of Being out of way in Propotion and I Believe Was approved of by the Department and mr John Lenthal the Constructor And Mr Pook

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147       1856

The Last two days Trial of the u S Steam frigate minaSota Machinery on the 10^th day of July 1856 on ThurS day

And onthe 11 day of July 1856 on friday and Worked as well as any machinery as I ever saw in my Life Commodore French Forrest and Captain Joseph Lanman And Chief Clerk of the Department and first Lieutenant Johnston and 2^nd Lieutenant G.B. Balch adn Chief Enginner of the washington navy yard Mr Henry Hunt and Clerks of the Diferent Departments

And I Believe there was upwards of five hundred Ladys and Gentleman come to visit the united States Steamer minaSota at the washington navy yard on WenSday the 23^rd of July 1856

The united States Steam frigate minaSota Built in Washington Navy Yard Embarked for philadelphia on the 28^th day of July on Monday 1856 and got a ground on the same day South West of the navy yard and they had one or two of these Small Tug Boats assiting in Trying to get her off and they got her off on Tuesday the 29^th of July 1856 And then Taken her in front of the u S arsenal and She Stayed there until the 31^thof July on Thursday 1856 and then they Taken her to alexandria and then She moved from there on the first day of august 1856 on friday for Her destination under the command of Captain Engraham and aCompanyed by the u S Steamer Engineer

The arrival of the united States Steamer frigate minaSota at the Philadlphia navy yard on the 4^th day of august 1856 on monday under the command of Captain Engraham and his officers It is no manner of use in Saying which is the Best of those Six large war Steamers Because the Sea will Prove the mechanic Fare well minaSota that was built in the washington navy yard I hope that all Six of them may turn out well But I have A Particular Reference to the minaSota Because She was Built

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148       1856

Right under our eyes it iS not the least doubt But what She Will Roll a Little But it will not be for want of Beamings for She has Beautiful Beamings as any Ship as I ever Seen in my life come a running from any Ports of the word with your Meddies or your Drafts for Mr John Linthal the Chief Constructor of the Navy Department is hard to Beat and mr Pook the constructor and there is another Little man by the name of Mr Edward foster

The 2^nd vessel that was hauled up on the marine railway at the Washington navy yard was the united States Steamer water witch on the 4^th day of august on monday Commodore Frenc Forrest and Captain Joseph Lanman and first Lieutenant Johnson and 2^nd Lieutenant G.B. Balch and Constuctor Mr S M Pook and assistant Builder Edward foster and Capt Sango Civil Engineer and Boatswain Mr Smith and Joseph Padgett over Seer of the yard hands was present

on the 15^th day of august 1856 on friday Commodore Lavalette Taken Command of the washington navy yard and he was Received Cordially by Commodore French Forrest an his officers And the master work man

the 2^nd vessel That was Launched off the new marine railway at the Washington navy yard was the united States Steamer water witch on the 25^th day of September 1856 on Thursday and in Launching The vessel She Suddenly give a Surge and There was a man close by the CapStand by the name of LanSley Breast and the Bars flew out of the Cap Stand and he had Both of his Legs fractured

The arrival of the united States Sloop of war Plymouth At the washington navy yard under the Command of Lieutenant Wymond

The 4^th day of october 1856 on Tuesday And on the 4^th day of october 1856 on Satturday her Crew was Transfered

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149       1856

The third vessel That was hauled up to the new marine Railway was the Steam mud machine on the 21th day of october 1856 on Tuesday

And She was launched on the 28^th day of november 1856

on friday

And She was hauled up on the 29^th day of november 1856

on Satturday

The first Commenced working of the new BlackSmith Shop that was Constructed by Captain william S Sango Civil Engineer At the washington navy yard onthe 26^th day of november 1856 on monday and every operation of it proceed Succesfull Captain william Sango Present and Mr James Tucker master Black Smith And Mr John Tucker quarterman Present

The United States houses of Congress Senate and house of Representatives assembled their Selves To gether on the 3^rd of December 1856 on monday and Elected a Speaker to the house of Representatives until the 2^nd day of febuary 1856 on Satturday it was never know Since it has Been the united States for the house of Representatives to be that Long with a Speaker at Last the Task involved on the Honorable nathan P Banks from massachusesetts

Accident occured at the Honorable major General Lewis Cass Senator of the united States he fell from the east end of the Patent office at Washington DC on the 8^th day of february 1856 on friday

The united State houses of the Senate and house of Represenatives adjourned on the firs of august 1856 on monday and they was Called To gether again on the 21^st oay of august 1856 on Thursday and They was Called Together by the Honorable Brigadier General Franklin Piercce president of the united States And the Reason they was called Back they had left the most important Business unfinished that was to appropriate money for the army which was Done the 30^th day of augist 1856 on Satturday and then Congress adjourned

--149--

150       1856

The Death of Honorable John M Clatyton Senator of the united States He died at his residence in the State of Delaware on the 8^th day of November on Sunday may the Lord Bless him

The Death of the major General J. A Edin at his Residence in Washington DC on the 17^th day of November 1856 on monday May the Lord Bless him and I hope that his Soul is at rest

There was a great enthusiam Prevailed inthe united States of America amongst all Classes of People in regards to the Three Candidates that was in the field for President The Honorable James Buchanan and the Honorable Millard Filmore and the Honorable J C Fremont the 4^th day of November 1856 on Tuesday

There was a grand Democrat Procession in the City of washington on the 27^th day November 1856 on Thursday

The Death of Commodore Bladen Delaney of the united States navy in washington DC on the 26^th day of December 1856 on friday He was the Son of the old Colonel Delaney and which I beleive Was an officer under General Washington may the Lord Bless him

TheLaunching of the mud machine off the new marine Railway The first of December 1856 on monday

The Death of Captain william Williams at his Post in the Washington navy yard on the 26^th Day of September 1856 on friday He Belonged to the unites States marine Corps

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151       1857

The Death of Honorable Lieutenant Colonel Preston S Brooks A member of Congress from South Carolina he died at Browns Hotel in washington DC on the 17^th day of January 1857 on Thursday

A man by the name James BranSon fell from the Rafter of the South gable end of the forge Shop the 9^th day of January 1857 on friday

on the 17^th day of January 1857 on Satturday it commenced Snowing It Snowed all day the 18^th of January 1857 on Sunday And it Snowed without intermission until the 19^th day of January 1857 on Monday and it was cold as I ever felt it in my life In some places I Suppose in Diferent parts of the Country it drifted upwards of 30 feet in Washington City in the valleys and the ditches it drifted about 10 and 12 feet⁸¹

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81. The snowfall of 17 January 1857 affected many of the cities of the eastern United States. Washington, DC recorded a snowfall total of 24 inches. This storm, as Michael Shiner notes, was unique for its extreme cold and very high winds.

152       1857

A Fire taken Place in the national Theatre in waShington D C and Burnt Down on the 6^th day of February 1857 on friday.

On the 8^th day of february 1857 on Sunday the Long Bridge was Carried Away

And on the 9^th day of february 1857 on monday the ice was piled up in front of Geesboro upwards of Ten feet Then we had another Freeze and the Potomac and the Eastern Branch was Closed up again on the 14^th of february 1857 on friday And She broke up again on Satturday. Gentleman here is Something that I have never Seen about here Before as Ccold as it had Been I Seen with my own eyes the 2^nd day of February 1857 on Monday a getting Ice at the north gable End of the Ship house in the Washington navy yard the Ice was eighteen or nineteen inches Thick

They Commenced hauling the u S Steam frigate fulton up on the new marine railway at the washington navy yard on the 7^th day of february 1857 on Satturday

Commodore E.A. F. Lavalette Present Capt C.C. Turner first Lieutenant JohnSon Captain W. P. Sango and Lieutenant G. Balch Mr. John Rainbow Carpenter Boatswain Mr george Smith and Mr Pook the Constructor and Mr Edward foster and Mr Joseph Padgett OverSeer of the yard hands was present and Mr. A. G. Davis men present And Mr James philips men was present

Then She was Stoped half way in the Dock Because the Shackle Broke that was Connected to the Cradle then She remained There Then They Taken a great Deal of Coal and iron out of her so as to lighten her up Then they commenced heaving on her The 29^th Day of february 1857 on wensday and They Still continued Heaving on her until the 26^th Day of february 1857 on Thursday and on the Same day She was hauled up nearly Two Blocks under the Command of Capt Turner

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153       1857

on the 28^th day of february on Satturday 1857 a Sad affair occurred Between two Gentleman in the united States pension office at Washington and the names of the Gentleman was Colonel Lee from Loudon county va. and the other Mr. Hume from alexandria va and it Appears that those Gentleman was at the Presidents on friday night the 27^th of february 1857 and Some Difficulty occurred between those Two Gentleman and which it appears on Satturday Mr Hume Called at the pension office where Colonel Lee was and it appears that they come to harsh words with each other then from that to Blows and it ended by Colonel Lee Shooting Mr Hume killing him instantly

The United States Steamer water witch left the washington navy Yard on the 17^th day of february 1857 on tuesday under the Command of Capt Lovel

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154       1857

A Fire Taken Place in the alms house in washington DC and Burnt Down on the 2^nd of March 1857 on monday

The honorable James Buchanan Taken his Seat on the fourth of March 1857 on wensday President of the united States and it was Beautiful Clear day and on that Day there was upward of fifteen hundred muSkets out including four Companies of u S Marines under the Command of major Tenett and Capt TanSel Lieutenant Jones Lieutenant Nichelson Lieutenant Reed and the u S flying artillery under the Command of Captain French from Fort mchenry State of maryland and Thousands of People from diferent Sections of the country was here that Day the whole military command Was here under the command of the honorable major General John A quitman of mississippi and they had a great Procession on that day and the groomsman that led the horses that was attached to the cars in the possession was William Key Enoch Simms Joseph Davis William Butler Ceeser Skinner Charles Snowden Selvy Reddin and John Carroll on the 4^th of march 1857 on wensday

A Sad accident occurred at the washington navy yard a Labour by the name of oconnel a native of ireland had his leg fracture on the 27^th of march 1857 on friday

A Labour by the name of Fenwick in Mr Padgett Gang fell from the Eves of the old ordnance Shop on the 30^th day of march 1857 on monday

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155       1857

Launch of the united States Steamer fulton off the new marine railway on the 5^th day of april 1859 on wensday

But in Launching of her She Stoped half way of the Dock and the Constructor Mr S Pook and Mr Edward foster and the Commanding officers of the yard Tryed There Best get her off But She Still reamined in that Position until friday the 10^th day of april 1857

The first Stone that was layed for the New Shell house in the washington navy yard by the the order of Captain william Sango Civil Engineer and Mr philipps master mason on the 20^th day of may 1857 on Thursday

The honorable Secretary of the Navy Mr Toucy visited the Washington navy yard on the 30^th of may 1857 on Satturady And was received by Commodore Lavalette and his officers

The arrival of the united States Steamer water witch at the Washington navy yard With a draft of 70 odd men for the united states Sloop of war plymouth the 11^th day of June 1857 on Satturday

The u S Steamer Engineer Left the washington navy yard on the 13^th day of June 1857 on Satturday

The honorable Secretary of the navy Mr Toucey visited the washington navy yard the 2^nd time on the 23^rd day of June 1857 on Tuesday and was Received by Commodore Lavalette and his officer and then was Escorted on Board of the u S Sloop of war Plymouth under the Command of Captain John A Dalhgren and his officers and they fired a Salute and Maned the yard

the united States Sloop of war plymouth Left The Washington navy yard on the 25^th day of June in Thursday under the Command of Captain John A Dalhgren and was towed out by a Little Tug Boat then She was taken in Tow by the united States Steamer fulton and towed Down the mouth of the River

--155--

156       1857

The first Starting of the new Engine of the new machine Shop at the Washington navy yard on the 20^th day of June 1857 on Satturday by the Superintendance of the Chief Engineer Mr henry hunt and Mr Edward Bright

The Great hail Storm in washington DC the Commencement of the Storm was Clouds raised at the South west and more off to the North west abd and every Shewed Lighening

and Looking at apparently i did not look as it was going tot he be anything But turn in on the 21th day of June 1857 on Sunday and it was the Largest hail That I ever Saw in my life and it fell with out intermission For about fifteen minutes

The first day of June on monday 1857 the Election taken Place in Washington city and there was a great excitement among the People at different precincts. There was about fifteen or twenty men gone from Baltimore in time of the election was going on. And cull them Selves plug uglys⁸² and they went to the poles and interfered with the Election and raised such a excitement that the mayor and the whole of the police force could not sop them and they was forced to call on the president of the united States and the Secretary of the navy for aid of the u S marines for to preserve the peace and the Secretary of the navy the honorable Mr Toucy issued an order to Brigadier General archibald henderson a commander of the marine forces and The marines was ordered to get ready and there was about one hundred and ten in number and was Commanded by Captain henry B tyler and Brevet captain william R Maddox and acting adjutant Lieutenant Charles henderson and they marched them to City hall and reported to the mayor And in the mean Time they Was formed in line there was stones throwned At them and Pistols fired at Them and one of the marines was shot in the face and severely wounded and it was supposed that the marines fired Through a mistake of order and there was Several People killed And wounded

--156--

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82. The "Plug Uglies" were an urban gang affiliated with the "Know-Nothing" Party. They were based originally in Baltimore, but spread rapidly to Washington, DC and other cities. In 1857 the Plug Uglies were brought to the District where they instigated a bloody riot involving over one thousand people in the District of Columbia. They were trying to prevent Irish-Americans from voting in Washington, DC's municipal elections. Ultimately six people were killed and many wounded before the Marines were able to suppress the fighting. According to one historian the Plug Uglies took their name from the large plug hats they wore.

157       1857

The united States Steam frigate minaSota Sailed from Gosport navy yard under the Command of Captain Dupont Detined for the East indies and China Seas and on the 2^nd day of July 1857 on Thursday

The united States Sloop of war plymouth Sailed froom Gosport navy yard under the Command of Captain J. A. Dalhgren and first Lieutenant Gatsby Jones on the 2^nd day July 1857 on friday

The Death of the honorable william L. marcy ExSecretary of the State he Died on the 4^th of July 1857 on Satturday He died in new york

on the 20^th day of july 1857 on monday Mr. Henry hunt Chief Engineer of the washington navy yard put the new engine and the whole of the Machinery in operation in the new machiner Shop

died in washington DC adjutant Park howell of the u S marine Corp on the 24^th day of July 1857 on Thursday

The first Brick that was Layed for the office of the Clerk of the Yard the 24^th day of July 1857 on friday

The first piles that was drove for the extension of the East wall at Washington navy yard on the 23^rd of July 1857 on Thursday

ExcurSion Taken Place from washington navy yard on Board of the u S Steamer water witch with the honorable Secretary of the State Navy Mr ISaac Toucy and all the Cabinet as far as indian head Down the potomac on the 25^th day of July 1857 on Satturday

--157--

157       1857

The first Bricks that was Layed for the Shell house the 3^rd day of august 1857 on monday

The Death of the honorable Secretary of the Navy J.C. dobbin the 4^th day of August 1857 on Tuesday he died at his residence in north Carolina

The removing of the old oakum Loft from the South Corner of the new marine Railway by the orders of Captain W.P. Sango on the 12^th day of august 1857 on wensday and Superintended by Mr Joseph Padgett overSeer of the yard hands and they was one week removing it and Was removed to the South East Corner of the ordnance Shop

The atlantic telegraph Cable was laid Between the Two Governments The united States and great Britan as far as my memory goes it parted on the 11^th day of august 1857 on Tuesday

Died in washington DC Commodore Thomas Newton of the unitedStates navy on the 28^th day of august 1859 friday

The Death of Com modore Steven Cassel he died at his residence in Geogetown DC on the 29^th of august 1857 on Satturday

The first Starting of the new Engine No 2 in the washington navy yard in the new Boiler Shop on the 5^th day of September 1857 on Satturday

The first Stone that was laid for the Extension of the East wall at the Washington navy yard onhte 7^th day of September 1857 on monday

The Starting of number two Engine for good and making of the Bell Boats And all the Boiler Shop machinery at the washington navy yard on the 24^th day of September 1857 on Thursday and all the machinery Worked handsomely

--[157.1]--

158       1857

The first Bricks that was Laid for the ExtenSion of the East Wall At the washington navy yard on the 30^th day September 1857 on wensday

The united States Steamer fulton Sailed from washington navy yard under the Command of Captain almer on the 10^th day of october 1857 on Wensday

The first stone was laid for a large ice house in washington navy yard by the orders of Captain W. P. Sanger on the 14^th day of October 1857 on wensday and the Brick caved in an caught two Labours and one was a native of germany and the other of ireland

The first keel that was laid for those Bell Boats⁸³ was Built in the washington navy yard on the 23^rd day of october 1857 on friday by the orders of Captain W.P. Sango Civil Engineer and Mr Edward Bright Chief Engineer of the washington navy yard and Mr Thomas Champion master Boiler Maker and Mr John Smith quarteramn

The arrival of the united States Sloop of war plymouth in front of the u S Arsenal at Wshington under the Command of Captain J. A. Dalhgren With her Sails Crowded and firing a Salute at the Same Time on the 18^th day of novemebr 1857 on wensday and no the leastr Doubt That being as the Channel is narrow She got off Track And She got a ground

And She never got up to the navy yard until the 21^st day of november 1857 on Satturday and Commodore Joseph Smith Chief of the yards and Docks Come up in her and Captain ingraham Bureau of ordnance When I Seen her coming up and her Sails Crouded And firing a Salute my whole Sould was filled with Joy to See her Come up so pretty and when I heard tha she was a ground my Feather fell on the 30^th day of may 1857 on monday the united States frigate Potoma c under the Command of Commodore John Downs and first Lieutenant Shubrick CroSSed that bar with all of he rguns Except five Cannonade 2 pounder of the Spar Deckguns

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83. Bell Boats were the design of James Buchanan Eads, one of the most outstanding civil engineers of the 19th century. Eads is noted for his development of diving bell techniques to salvage sunken steamboats. Eads' attention was attracted by the numerous losses of boats and cargoes. In 1842 he patented an adaptation of the diving bell and engaged in the salvage business. He built the first of a series of "bell boats" bearing the name Submarine and became very successful. The Navy Department used these boats to clear channels of underwater obstructions.

159       1857

on the 19^th day of november 1857 on Thursday while hoisting a iron rafter For the Shell house in washington navy yard James Buckly Labour Got his leg Broken and Captain W. S. Sango and Mr Joseph Padgette Was present when it happened

The uper Part of the Eastern Branch was frozen over Clear a Cross on the 23^rd of november 1857 on monday

The 24^th day of november 1857 on Tuesday day froze a Cross

The 25^th day of november 1857 on wensday day froze a Cross

The 26^th day of november 1857 on Thursday day froze a Cross

The honorable Brigadier General Franklin Pierce Expresident of the united States and his Lady passed Through Baltimore Enroute For norfolk and hwas treated with the highest Respect by the People in Baltimore on the 30^th day of november 1857 on monday and I was Highly Delighted when I heard the Expresident andhis Lady met Such a great reception

Lauching of the mud machine off the new marine Railway on the first of December 1857 on Tuesday

The members of Congress held a Caucus in the new house of Represenatives on the 5^th day of December 1857 on Satturday

And the first Setting of Congress inthe the new house of Represenatives on the 7^th day of December on monday 1857

The Sailing of the u S Steam frigate Powhatan from hamton Roads on the 10^th day of December 1857 on Thursday and had on Board the Honorable Brigadier General franklin Pierce Expresident and his Lady And I hope the General and his Lady may return Safe to the united States again

--159--

160       1857

The Surrender of major General walker commander in Chief of the Fillibuster army Surrendered him Self and his forces to Commodore Hiram Paulding who waS in command of the home Squadron at Niguruiga on tuesday the 8^th day of December 1857 and it is a Great Blessing that he fell in the hands of Commodore Paulding. Although great many People think he committed a error But I believe now the people of this country that are well Wishers of their fellow men believe that it was a great piece of Charity restored on General walker and his men by Commodore Paulding arresting him

I am in hopes that the people of this country Will appreciate Commodore Paulding proceedings and all such men like him that will look out for the honour of their Country and the wellfare of the People as General walker fell into the hands of Commodore Paulding Rather then for him to fall into the hands of great Britain or any other nation for when General walker was there before they Suffered misery and Death and God knows what would Be the fate this time if any Surrendering to be Done let it to your own country When a man has violated his laws with or on his responsibility let him Submit to his law like a man⁸⁴

Snowed on the 25^th day of December 1857 on friday

Snowed on the 26^th day of December 1857 on Satturday

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84. William Walker (1824-1860) was a physician, lawyer, and soldier of fortune who attempted to create an empire in South America. He overthrew the government of Nicaragua in 1856 and was briefly president of that country. Walker later attempted a similar venture in Honduras that resulted in his capture and execution by firing squad. William Walker held racist views and advocated setting up an agricultural empire based on slavery. His rash actions in Central America were lauded by many in the southern states where he was perceived of as man of destiny. Michael Shiner's praise for his former Washington Navy Yard Commandant, Commodore Hiram Paulding, stands out since Shiner seldom discusses his own political views. Commodore Paulding was the subject of severe criticism by southern senators once word of his arrest of William Walker reached Washington, DC.

161       1858

A visit to the washington navy yard by Diferent Tribes of indians on the 27^th day of January 1858 on wensday They were escorted to the marine Barracks And there they was engaged in their former way of Dancing Something Similar To a Spanish Fandango Sometime their Clothes on and Sometimes off

The first Pile that waS Drove for the new iron Timber Shed in the washington navy yard on the 28^th Day of January 1858 on Thursday by the instructions of Captain W. P. Sango Civil Engineer

The first Cylinder that was CaSted for the new marine railway in Washington navy yard on the 29^th day of January 1858 on friday by the instructions of Mr Hoffnagle maSter moulder and Mr andrew Lenord Quarterman

--161--

162       1858

The Death of Mr Philip otterbach Senior⁸⁵ in washington DC on the 6^th day of February 1858 on Thursday after a long Spell of Sickness and for my Self Michael Shiner I have know Mr. Otterbach ever Since I was a boy and for those last years I have Had considerable dealing with him and I always Found him to be a perfect Gentleman

The new Code of laws in the District of Columbia Was voted Down on the 17^th Day of february 1858 on monday

Captain Turner had Snow piled up in the Washington Navy Yard for to Commence filling the ice house for There was a great appearance of a ScarSity ice on the 15^th day of february 1858 on monday

They Commenced filling the ice house with Snow on the 16^th day of february 1858 on tuesday and by order of Commodore Lavallette and Captain Tierney and Mr Joseph Padgett overSeer of the yard hands and the remainder of the officers of the yard the ice house waS nearly filled⁸⁶

The raising of the Statute of the honorable major General George WaShington At Richmond The Capitol of virginia on the 23nd of february 1858 on monday

The Death of Commodore matthew C Perry he died in new york on The 5^th day of march 1858 on friday

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85. Phillip Otterbach (1796-1858) was a butcher and resident of the 6th Ward. Otterbach was German immigrant who ran a very successful business. The 1850 Washington, DC Census indicates that he owned real estate valued at $125,000.00. His relationship to Michael Shiner is unclear.

86. Captain Ellie A.F. Lavellette was Commandant of Washington Navy Yard from 15 August 1856 to 14 May 1858.

163       1858

The last Ice That was put in Ice house in the washington navy yard on the 6^th day of march on Satturday

The first iron That was worked by the Long hammer in the new forge Shop in the washington navy yard on the 15^th day of march 1858 on monday Mr James Tucker master Black Smith of the washington navy yard with Mr James Tucker quarterman and it forged reasonably well

A visit was paid to the washington navy yard by admiral Pacha of Turky and his officers on the 19^th day of march 1858 on friday And was Escorted Commodore Lavalette and Captain C.C. Turner and Captain J.A. Dalhgreen and [line crossed out] Lieut Patterson and various other gentleman

The first Bell Boats That was hauled of the Boiler Shop in the Washington navy yard bt Superintendence of Mr Joseph Padgett master Labour on the 19^th day of march 1858 on friday

The first pile that was drove for the addition of the Boiler Room in the washington navy yard by the order of Captain W.P. Sango Civil Engineer and mr Padgett overSeer of the yard hands on the 29^th day of march 1858 on monday

--163--

164       1858

The first Commencement of Calling of the Roll in The new Roll office in the waShington navy yard by Richard Barry on the East part of The Building and Mr Hilbron on the north Side of The Building on the first day of april 1858 on Thursday.

The Death of the Honorable Colonel Thomas Benton in waShington DC He died on the 10^th day of april 1858 on Satturday and he was a a fine Heart and Candid man and Left many friends to mourn his Loss

The Second piles That was Drove for the addition to [line illegible] the new marine Railway in the waShington navy yard by the orders of Captain W.P. Sango Civil Engineer and Mr Joseph Padgett overSeer of the yard hands on the 19^th day of april 1858 monday

--164--

165       1858

Hauling of the united States Steamer water witch on the new marine railway at washington navy yard on the 6^th Day of may 1858 on Thursday

And on the 8^th day of may 1858 on Satturday They hauled her Within ten feet of her foremast Touching the Ship house

There was a visit Paid to washington navy yard By Sir Lord Napier and The British Secretary of Legations and was received Cordially by Commodore Lavalette and his officers on The 8^th day of may 1858 on Satturday

The Presentation of a Silver Pitcher and Goblet to Commodore Lavalette by the master workman and mechanics of the washington Navy yard on the 12^th day of may on wensday

Commodore J. Rudd Taken command of the washington navy yard on the 15^th day of may 1858 on Satturday

The u S Steamer water witch arrived at the washington navy yard on the 26^th day of may 1858 on wensday under the command of Captain J. Rodgers by a Special order of the Department and Commenced to unloading her

And on the 27^th day of may 1858 on Thursday She was DiSpatched For the Gulf of mexico in Search of the inglish man of war Stykes

The united States Sloop of war plymouth Left washington navy yard under Command of Captain J. A. dalhgren and first Lieutenant Cateby Jones on the 29^th day of may 1858 on Satturday

--165--

166       1858

The Cylinder of the Hyerodaolic waS placed in its poSition in the upper Ship house in the washington navy yard For hauling up vessels on on the 26^th day of June 1858 on Satturday by Mr henry hunt Chief Engineer of the washington Navy yard and Mr. M. E. Bright quarterman

A young man by the name of inlafer Belonging to the united States marine Corps accidently got Drowned whilst Batheing in the waShington navy yard on the 26^th day of June 1858 on Satturday

The Execution of the young man Powers In washington City DC on the 26^th day of June 1858 on Satturday

The united States revenue Cutter harriet Lane arrived in front of the united States arSnal at washington on the 12^th day of July 1858 on monday Captain John Fouce f 1-Lieut F Bearu 2 Lieut H Cowley

The Laying of the first Stone for the new anchor Shop in the washington navy yard by the order of Captain W. P. Sango Civil Engineer Mr James Philipps Master mason on the 12^th day of July 1858 monday

The united States Steamer artic [Artic?-not a Navy ship according to DANFS] arrived at washington Navy yard on the 24^th day of July 1858 on Satturday

--166--

167       1858

The first vessel that was hauled up by that hierodrolic Power In washington navy yard waS the united States Steamer water witch on the 19^th of august on wensday

The u S mail Steamer Central america was Lost on her way from California to new york on the 12^th day of august 1858 on wensday

Commenced Launching the united States Steamer water witch on the 24^th day of august 1858 on wensday

And finshed Launching of the united States Steamer water Witch on the 25^th day of august 1858 on Thursday

--167--

168       1858

The Lost of The mail Steamer austoia on the High Seas by fire on the 13^th day of September 1858 on monday

When I first Discovered the Comet it was between North West and North East until then it enlarged and work its Way South on the 13^th day of September 1858 on monday⁸⁷ The united States Steamer water witch Left washington navy yard on the 21th day of September 1858 on Tuesday

The united States Steamer fulton Left washington navy yard on the 22th day of September 1858 on wensday

The first Bricks That was Layed for the Extension of the naval Store at washington navy yard by the order of Captain W. P. Sango Civil Engineer Mr James Philipps master Mason on the 28^th day of September 1858 on TueSday

The first Bricks that was laid for the new anchor Shop in the Washington navy yard by the orders of Captain W. P. Sango Mr James Philipps master mason on the 27^th day of october 1858 on wensday

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87. The comet Michael Shiner observed was comet C/1858 L 1 (Donati) discovered in June, 1858 and widely visible during September, 1858. [Source: Email to John Sharp from Dan Green, Harvard Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, dated 21 February 2007.]

169       1858

The arrival of the united States Sloop of war Plymouth at Washington under the Command of Captain J. A. Dalhgren the 8^th day of December 1858 on wensday and in coming up to the navy yard She got a ground Below the old Sugar House and there She remained

The united States Sloop of war plymouth was got off on the 9^th day of December 1858 on Thursday and arrived at the Navy yard

The arrival of the united States Steamer Dispatch at the washington navy yard on the 26^th day of December 1858 on Sunday

The united States Sloop of war Plymouth Left the washington navy yardunder the Command of Lieutenant murray of ordnance on the 28^th dayof December 1858 on tuesday And was towed out by the united States Steamer Dispatch

And she never got off until the 29^th day of December 1858 on wensday

if They had of minded what that lad of a Boy Said they Would not run aground I am not pretending to Dictate But I think it would Be wise for the Goverment to Employ Some of the young men That was raised about those wharfs for pilots in they know every inch of the Channel

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170       1858

Died at washington at His Residence at the marine Barracks Brigadier General archibal henderson in Command of the united States marine CorpS the 6^th day of January 1859 on Thurday

The Death of Mrs ann marie Careno henderson The wife of the late Brigadier General henderson She died on the 18^th day of January 1859 on tuesday

The Death of Mr Philipp Barton Key States attorney of the District of Columbia on the 27^th day of february 1859 on Sunday

The Death of Honorable Aron Brown Postmaster General he died in Washington DC on the 8^th day of march 1859 on tuesday

The honorable Aron Brown Postmaster General was Buried on the 10^th day of march 1859 on Thursday and orders come Down from the Department to washington navy yard to Commodore John Rudd on the 9^th day of march 1859 on wensday that the Day he was to Buried The mechanics and Labours Should come In and anSwer Their muster and walk out of the yard

The united States Steamer artic Lef washington navy yard on the 10^th day of march 1859 on Thursday

Commodore John Rudd Left washington navy yard on the 3^rd of april 1859 on Sunday

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171       1859

A Fire Takein Place in the north west part of washington navy yard in the Boiler room on the first day of may 1859 on Sunday

The arrival of the united States Steamer fulton At the washington navy yard on The first day of may 1859 on Sunday

The united States Steamer water witch at the washington navy yard on the 2th day of may 1859 on monday

The united States Steamer water witch Left the washington navy yard on the 3^rd day of may 1859 on Tuesday

The united States Steamer fulton Left the washington navy yard on the 4^th day of may 1859 on wensday

The arrival of the united States Steamer anacosta [Anacostia] at the washington navy yard on the 26^th day of may 1859 on Thursday

Finished Hauling of the united States Steamer ancosta up the new marine Railway at washington navy ayrd on the 31th day of may 1859 on tuesday

Commodore Buchanan Taken Command of the washington navy yard on The 30^th day of may 1859 on Tuesday⁸⁸

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88. Captain Franklin Buchanan was Commandant from Washington Navy Yard from 26 May 1859 to 22 April 1861. Shortly after the events Michael Shiner recounts, Captain Buchanan resigned his commission and joined the new Navy of the Confederate States, where he became a Rear Admiral.

172       1859

The Death of william Nokes and James wilson in washington navy yard by the explosion of a Gun and others wounded on 14^th of July 1859 on Thursday Commenced moving out of the old anchor Shop in washington navy yard by the order of Commodore Buchanan and Captain Charles Turner and Captain W.P. Sanger into the new anchor Shop by the superintendence of James Tucker Master BlackSmith and James Tucker quarteman on Friday the 15^th day of July 1859 on Friday afternoon when the funeral taken place orders were given by first Lieutenant murray of the wshington navy yard a the Roll Office that all the mechanics and labour Should answer their Starboard and Larboard Muster and pass out the main Gate to attend the funeral of the men who was killed

The arrival of the united States Steam frigate minaSota at Charlestown navy yard massachusetts under the Command of Captain Dupont on the 29^th day of July 1859 on friday

Commenced Launching of the united States Steamer anacosta off the Marine railway on the 2nd day of August on Tuesday

They finished Launching The united States Steamer anacosta on the 3^rd day of august 1858 on wensday

Hauling up of the united States Steamer anacosta Stern foremast on the marine railway at washington navy yard on the 22th day of august 1859 on Satturday

Commenced working the new Engine in the new anchor Shop in the washington navy yard on the 22th day of august 1859 on monday

The arrival of Expresident Brigadier general franklin Pierce and His Lady at Charleston massachusettes on the 27^th day of august 1859 on monday Lauchin of the united States Steamer anacoSta at washington navy yard on the 26^th day of august 1859 on friday

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173       1859

The arrival of the Philadelphia fire Company in washington DC With a Steam Engine on the 19^th day of September on monday

The united States Steamer anacosta from washington navy yard with a load of freight under the Command of Captain filbrown at a quater past one oclock and She got in the mouth Turkey Buzzard Creek This Side of washington arsenal and There was a Tremendous Storm and She was Blown a Shore in fron of the indian assylum on the 17^th day of September 1859

The united States Steamer anacosta was reload The 18^th day of September 1859 on Sunday

The first Peice of iron That They taken a heat on in the new anchor Shop In the washington navy yard on the 27^th day of September 1859 on Tuesday by Mr James Tucker master Black Smith and Mr John Tucker quarterman

Lieutenant General winfield Scott Commander in Chief of the united States Army Embarked from new york for the island of San Juan on the 29^th Day of September 1859 on Tuesday with a volunteer act of his own

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174       1859

The Death of honorable John mason minister to France he died in france on the 3^rd day of october 1859 on monday in Disharge of his duty in Bhalf of his County and in Presidents Polks time he was appointed and confirmed as attorney General Then when Mr polk appointed the honorable Mr vancroft That was Secretary of the navy minister to england Then the Honorable Judge mason was transfered from attorney General Seat to fill The Seat of the Secretary of navy

on the 16^th of october1859 on Sunday The people of harpers ferry va Was higly excited by the apperance of an individual Called Captain asowatomie John Brown⁸⁹ and he and his colleagues They came Between the hours of Midnight and Day and Taking Charge of Goverment Property The armory And other Goverment property at harpers ferry va frightened The People arround harpers ferry verry Badly

The President of the united States James Buchanan received a dispatch From harpers fery on the 17^th day of october 1859 on monday That a man by the name Captain John Brown and his party had taken posession of Harpers ferry and The Goverment arms and the honorable James Buchanan President of the united States and the honorable Isaac Toucy The Secretary of the navy Sent orders Down to Colnel John Howard commanding officer of the marine Corps at washington for all marines That was active for to Dispatch off to harpers ferry and it was done immediately and the marines was Commanded By Lieutenant Green of harpers ferry they was Taken in Command by Colonel Rober Lee at that time a full Colonel in the united States army and Captain John Brown and his party was captured

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89. John Brown was often called "Osawatomie Brown" because of his leadership of an anti-slavery group, which defended Osawatomie, Kansas (a town founded by abolitionists) against pro-slavery attackers on 30 August 1856. When Brown's "Army" was dispersed, the pro-slavery attackers destroyed the town. For more information on John Brown and the Battle of Osawatomie, see http://kansastravel.org/johnbrownmuseum.htm

175       1859

The Hauling of the united States Steamer anacosta on the new marine railway at washington navy yard on the 28^th day of November 1859 on monday

And finished hauling up of the united States Steamer Ancosta on the new marine railway at washington navy yard on the 29^th day of november 1859 on tuesday Stern foremast her main mast with two feet of the Ship house

Launching of the Steamer anacosta at washington navy yard on the 2^nd day of December 1859 on friday

The Execution of Captain John Brown at Charlestown va on the 2rd day of December 1859 on friday

      1860

The Dedication of the honorable General Washington Statue in washington DC on the 22th Dayof february 1860 on wensday the President of the united States the honorable James Buchanan and his cabinet was Present and Chief Justice Taney of the Supreme court of the united States and the other four Judges and several Govenors of Diferent States Was present and a great number of Spectators was present and the united States marines under the Command major terrett and Several volunteer Companys of washington and The 7^th Regiment from new york and the horse Company from Charles County undder the command of Captain lawer Cox and the whole of the Military was under the Command of major general JeSup

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