Launching the New U.S. Navy

Background

Two weeks after Congress authorized the construction of six frigates, President George Washington sent a message to Congress nominating the six men who would command the newly authorized vessels. John Barry headed the list as senior captain. He was one of the most courageous and successful officers in the Revolutionary War navy. He was also the last officer of the Continental Navy in active service.

National Archives and
Records Administration
Center for Legislative Archives
Records of the U.S. Senate
Record Group 46