Washington Winter Show 2015

44 This page is sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. David Booth Beers Figure 4: Decatur Wine Cooler and Goblet , by Thomas Whartenby and Peter Bumm, Philadelphia, c. 1818 (White House Historical Association). the French Revolution (1798–1801) Great Britain and France became embroiled in a war for the control of Europe and both saw American merchant ships as fair game in the struggle. The Jay Treaty of 1795 initiated a shaky truce with Great Britain, but France continued to seize American ships — over 300 by the time John Adams was inaugurated President in March 1797. To defend against these attacks the United States established the Navy Department the next year and began building six new frigates in American navy yards including one here in Washington. These frigates averaged about 40 guns, smaller than ships-of-the-line, but able to outrun the larger and more powerful ships. The designs for these ships followed the French naval design model which mphasized speed and maneuverability. The British Navy favored a heavier more solid construction which could deliver more fire power. Men who grew up in towns along the coast, where shipbuilding flourished, often served on board vessels involved with coastal or transcontinental trade on merchant ships. They gained valuable experience and joined our Navy which unlike the British Navy offered higher salaries and better conditions. The combination of treacherous waters and tyrannical enemies required dedication, bravery, and true patriotism; and many of the men who were captains of these vessels were presented with objects made of silver in recognition of these outstanding victories. Although France and the United States were allies during the American Revolution, the French Revolution (1787–99) severed the amicable international relationship. Numerous periods of anarchy within France and its colonies resulted in the United States and Great Britain partnering against France to protect their political and maritime interests. French ships were harassing, and capturing American and British merchant vessels. In September 1797 Constellation, the second frigate authorized by Congress, was launched in Baltimore. In her first cruise off the coast of the United States to protect American commerce she earned the nickname “Yankee Race Horse” for her speed. In December 1798 under the command of Captain Thomas