Age of Sail
On March 27, 1794, 225 years ago, President George Washington signed “An act to provide a Naval Armament,” known as the Naval Armament Act of 1794. The act called for the construction of six frigates, commissioning of officers, and raising of crews. It specifies ship manning levels, pay, and rations as well. After the American Revolution, the Continental Navy was slowly disbursed with the last frigate, Alliance, sold in Philadelphia on June 3, 1785. During the War of 1812, brigs acquired distinction in small fleet engagements on the Great Lakes and as merchant raiders in the Atlantic. Because brigs required a large crew, schooners were often used because they handle better in coastal winds and require a smaller crew. Sloops were usually smaller, three-masted vessels commanded by a master commandant.
*****
Readings
- Notable Ships of Sail
- Origins of the Navy
- American Revolution
- War of 1812
- Civil War
- Uniforms
- General Order (17 December 1850) Furnishing Vessels
- Asa Curtis – Letter dated 25 November 1845
- Asa Curtis – Letter of reference dated 12 November 1844
- Act providing a Naval Armament
- Reestablishment of the Navy, 1787–1801
- Hurricanes and the War of 1812
- War of 1812 infographic
Ships
Frigates
Schooners