Perry, Matthew Calbraith (1794-1858) [General orders pertaining to the deaths of Thomas Gilmer and Beverly Kennon]
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02430 Author/Creator: Perry, Matthew Calbraith (1794-1858) Place Written: Funchal, Madeira, Portugal Type: Letter signed Date: 2 April 1844 Pagination: 3 p. : docket ; 32.2 x 20.2 cm. Order a Copy
Perry signs as Commander of Naval Forces on the West Coast of Africa. Transmits a copy of two general orders issued following the death of Thomas W. Gilmer, late Secretary of the Navy. Transmits the orders to commanding officers of vessels attached to the African Squadron. On verso, contains a general order issued 29 February 1844 issued by Lewis Warrington, Secretary of the Navy. Warrington orders flags at half mast, firing of guns, and the wearing of crepe on sailors left arms and swords in memory of Gilmer, who was killed 28 February 1844 by a bursting gun aboard the U.S.S. Princeton. Page three contains another order issued 29 February by Warrington, providing specific mourning procedure following the death of Captain Beverly Kennon, Chief of the Bureau of Construction Equipment and Repairs.
[excerpt] [draft]
"...In consequence of the deplorable event which recently occurred on board the U.S. Steamer Princeton, and I have to direct that you carry into execution so far as relates to the ship under your command the instructions contained in said orders."
"The...minute gun to commence at Meridian of the day of the receipt of this order and the flags to be half masted at that time, and to be kept half masted during the usual hours until sunset of the succeeding day."
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