George Washington's Schooners: The First American Navy

by Chester G. Hearn

Though never an overpowering force, Washington's flotilla of eight fast, lightly armed ships harassed British supply lines along the New England coast for twenty-six months beginning in the fall of 1775. Manned by seamen from his army who longed to show King George who owned the colonial coast, the schooners captured fifty-five prizes and accelerated the British decision to evacuate Boston.

Chester Hearn's analyses of Washington's naval leadership show that Washington, though the man least likely to appreciate the importance of seapower, was the very person who seemed to understand it best. He had his little squadron at sea months before the Continental Congress finally agreed to pass an appropriation to finance the first Continental fleet, and much of the early naval policy that followed had its foundation in Washington's instructions to his captains.

In telling the story of Washington's schooners, Hearn brings to life the early days of America's war for independence with tales of perseverance, courage, and sacrifice. He describes a motley collection of captains, sailors, marines, and naval agents, recounts the fledgling navy's successes and failures, and examines the reactions of both the Royal Navy and the emerging American nation. It is at once an exciting tale of adventure and authentic, little-known history.

Genres: History

285 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 1995

About the author

A 1954 graduate of Allegheny College, Chester Hearn served in the U.S. Army and worked in industrial management before becoming an author of books on the American Civil War in his retirement.

Reviews

[Glenn Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting and little aspect of the American Revolution. Building a navy from the ground floor. George Washington started it and was in essence, the first Rear Admiral. He gave orders, ruled on the collected prizes, made payments and more before handing off the duties once the British left Boston. Starting with little schooners, the captains would capture larger boats, tow these into port and trade up in order to capture larger boats. This small navy was never much of a big threat, but the creation forced the British navy to allocate resources away from where the immediate need was.

Very well researched book that centered on the 1775-1777 time frame. Many hero's were discussed. People I had not heard off that made a big impact on the outcome. We just do not hear much of the naval battles, other than John Paul Jones. I enjoyed this book.