The cannon for the frigates had been cast at Cecil Furnace, Maryland. Captain Barry, on May 16, 1796, was sent there "to see the guns and examine whether they were suitable or fit for service."
The frigate "United States" was progressing rapidly towards completion. Captain Barry, on September 19, 1796, estimated the cost of fitting out for officers and men at $7285. The vessel when completed cost $299,336. She was 175 feet in length, 44 feet beam and of 1576 tonnage. She was launched May 10, 1797.
"In the long list of splendid vessels which in a hundred combats have maintained the honor of our national flag, the 'United States' stands at the head." She served our country well in the war with France under Barry; also in the war with England in 1812-15 and in subsequent duties, peaceful or warlike.
Columbia's friend, freed from this worldly coil, Now rests (so Heav'n ordains) from human toil; A Patriot firm, thro' chequer'd life unblam'd, A gallant vet'ran, for his powers fam'd. Beneath his guidance, lo! a Navy springs, An infant Navy spreads its canvas wings, A rising Nation's weal, to shield, to save, And guard her Commerce on the dang'rous wave.
Whoe'er the Sage, his character shall scan, Must trace those Virtues that exalt the man, The bold achievement and heroic deed To honor's fame, the laurel'd Brave that lead, Long for his merits and unsully'd name (Dear to his friends and sanctify'd name); His clay cold relics shall his country mourn, And with her tears bedew his hallow'd urn.
Come, cheering Hope--celestial cherub come-- Say that his virtues soar beyond the tomb, Say that with Mercy in ethereal guise, His white-robed spirit climbs yon op'ning skies.
LAUNCH OF THE "UNITED STATES"--WAR WITH FRANCE--BARRY COMMANDS THE AMERICAN FLEET IN THE WEST INDIES--CAPTURES THE "SAN PAREIL"--AGAIN SENT TO THE WEST INDIES--BARRY FIRES ON THE FRENCH BATTERIES AT BASSE TERRE--TO FRANCE AGAIN--DEATH OF OUR HERO.
The frigate "United States" though launched in May, 1797, was not ready for sea until July, 1798, when, on 3d July, the new Secretary of the new Department--the Navy--Hon. Benjamin Stoddert, directed Captain Barry "to proceed to sea with the first fair wind," and expressing President Adams' "conviction that nothing on your part will be wanting to justify the high confidence reposed by him and your country in your activity, skill and bravery."
