Autographs
John Tazewell Virginia House of Delegates Clerk Order to Provide Naval Protection to the Inhabitants on the Potomac
JOHN TAZEWELL (1744-1781). Born in Northampton County, Virginia; Attended College of William & Mary; Practiced and taught law in Williamsburg; Clerk of the House of Burgesses and the House of Delegates; Clerk of the Committee of Correspondence, 1773; Clerk of the Conventions of March, July and December 1775, and May 1776, the last Convention adjourned to meet as the House of Delegates in October, 1776; Elected Judge of the General Court in 1778.
December 9, 1777-Dated Revolutionary War Period, Rare "Virginia State Navy" Content Autograph Document Signed, "John Tazewell C.H.D." as Clerk of the House of Delegates, being an official copy of an Order passed in the House of Delegates,Very Fine. Maryland also had a "State Navy" during the Revolutionary War, this being 1 page, measuring 7.5" x 3.5", some faint damp staining, bottom right corner irregular. Likely the only copy of this scarce and historic document in private hands.
"In the House of Delegates Tuesday the 9th Dec'r 1777. --- Ordered that the Governor should immediately order naval Protection for the Inhabitants on the Potomac River as the state of the Navy will admit" (the Virginia State Navy) , and to request assistance from the Governor of Maryland. --- (Signed) John Tazewell C.H.D."
During the American Revolutionary War, Virginia, like other colonies, established its own navy to contribute to the overall war effort against British forces. The Virginia State Navy played a role in defending the state's coastline, patrolling waterways, and supporting military operations. Here are some key points about the Revolutionary War Virginia State Navy.
The Virginia State Navy was officially established by the Virginia Convention on October 22, 1775. Its primary responsibilities included protecting Virginia's coastline, safeguarding shipping lanes, and supporting military operations in the region.
Virginia commissioned a variety of vessels for its navy, including sloops, schooners, and smaller gunboats. Some notable ships in the Virginia State Navy included the "Nansemond," the "Dragon," and the "Scorpion."
Commodore James Barron was appointed as the commander of the Virginia State Navy in 1775. Other commanders who served in the Virginia State Navy included individuals like James Nicholson and James Maxwell.
The Virginia State Navy played a role in protecting vital waterways and ports, preventing British naval forces from gaining easy access to Virginia.
Naval engagements took place in Chesapeake Bay and other coastal areas, with both sides seeking control of key strategic points.
The Virginia State Navy faced challenges common to many colonial navies during the Revolutionary War, including shortages of funds, supplies, and experienced personnel.
The British navy's superior strength also posed a significant challenge to the effectiveness of colonial naval forces.
While the Virginia State Navy was not as large or influential as the Continental Navy, it played a role in supporting Virginia's defense during a critical time in American history.
It's important to note that the effectiveness and impact of state navies, including Virginia's, varied throughout the Revolutionary War. The contributions of these naval forces were part of the broader strategy to secure independence from British rule.