Letter Signed

Request for Overseeing of State and Launching of Frigate Constellation at Baltimore

Directs Humphreys to travel to Baltimore and consult with the constructors of the frigate Constellation on how to launch the ship without damaging it. Asks that he sound the depth of the water and mud in the harbor, survey the general state of the ship, and gauge whether the entire bottom can be "coppered" before the ship is launched.

1797

07

25

War Office

2 COLLECTIONS: one with photocopy images, one without images.

Joshua Humphreys

James McHenry

Captain Truxton

David Stodder

War Office

you will be pleased to proceed forthwith to the navy yard at Baltimore in Maryland and in conjunction with Capt. Truxton and Mr. David Stodder the constructor consult on the best method into the water so as to float without sustaining injury by the operation. It may be proper for you to survey the state of the ship as she stands on the stocks, observe with what descent the keel is laid, and also sound the depth of water at unusual distances from the wharf. You will also examine the depth of mud where she may come into contact with it, and ascertain whether its circumstance be such so as to endanger or injure the ship in her progress thru it.

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