1826 LETTER ANNOUNCING THE RETURN AND REINTERMENT OF COMMODORE OLIVER HAZARD PERRY, “HERO OF LAKE ERIE"

Autograph letter signed by Richard Randolph (1781-1849), to J.C. Crighton. Newport, [Rhode Island], 27 November 1826. 1 page, 4to. 

Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry (1785–1819) enjoyed a distinguished naval career and is best remembered as the “Hero of Lake Erie” for his decisive victory at the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812.

On 23 August 1819, Perry died of Yellow fever at Port of Spain while on diplomatic duty in the Caribbean. After an elaborate funeral, he was buried in Lapeyrouse Cemetery. In 1826, however, the United States Congress authorized the return of his remains to the United States so that he might receive a more fitting national reinterment.

This letter, written by Richard Randolph to Captain Creighton of the United States Navy, announces the arrival of Perry’s remains and invites the captain to attend the funeral ceremonies held on Monday, 4 December. Randolph writes in part:

“I now inform you that the Lexington, having on board the remains of our lamented friend, arrived here this afternoon about 3 o’clock. Monday next is the day appointed for the reinterment. The committee of the town request me to say that it would give them pleasure that you should be present.”

The transport of Perry’s remains aboard the naval vessel USS Lexington (brig) marked a solemn national tribute to one of the young republic’s most celebrated naval commanders.

A rare relic connected to the funeral and reinterment of one of America’s most important naval heroes.

[Manuscripts, Documents, Letters, Ephemera, Signatures, Autographs] [War of 1812, James Madison, Battle of Lake Erie, Battle of Plattsburgh, Fort McHenry, Battle of New Orleans, Treaty of Ghent, Andrew Jackson]  [Navy, Naval History]

Loss to left edge affecting some text.