Hamilton, Paul (1762-1816) to John Rodgers
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00758 Author/Creator: Hamilton, Paul (1762-1816) Place Written: Washington, D.C. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 18 June 1812 Pagination: 1 p. : address : free frank : docket ; 24 x 20 cm. Order a Copy
The Secretary of the Navy informs Commodore Rodgers that war has been declared against Great Britain, officially starting the War of 1812. Indicates that Rodgers is entitled to use his four vessels for attack and defense. Asks him to await further instructions from New York, but permits him to attack British cruisers near Sandy Hook, if the opportunity arises, after which he should return to port. Instructs him to relay these orders to Commodore Stephen Decatur.
Navy Depart
June 18th. 1812
Sir
I apprize you that war has been this day declared between "the United Empire of Great Britain and Ireland & their dependencies" and the United States of America. You are to consider the vessels under your command as entitled to every belligerent right, as well of attack as defense. For the present, it is desirable that, with the four under your command, you remain in such position as to enable you most conveniently to receive farther more extensive, and more particular orders, which will be conveyed to you through New York; but as it is understood that there are one or more british Cruisers on the Coast, in the vicinity of Sandy Hook, you are at your observation, free to strike them--returning immediately after into Port-- you are free to capture or destroy them -- [inserted above:] extend these orders to Comre. Decatur.
Respectfully yrs
Paul Hamilton
Command. John Rodgers
U.S. Navy
[4]
[address leaf:]
Navy Departt.
Paul Hamilton
Commre. John Rodgers
of the Navy of the U. States
New York --
[Docket by recipient:]
Honle. the Secretary
June 18th. 1812
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