An Extraordinary Archive of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry: Over 60 Historic Documents, Naval Commissions, Family Papers, and Photographic Material Spanning the 19th Century – Including Autograph Letters, Presidential Appointments, Deathbed Records, and Daguerreotypes
A monumental archive chronicling the life, legacy, and lineage of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, hero of the Battle of Lake Erie, comprising over 70 manuscript letters, official documents, presidential naval commissions, a richly illustrated family scrapbook, and a rare group of early photographs. This collection offers an unparalleled, intimate view into the personal and public life of one of America’s great naval heroes—and the lasting military tradition carried forward by the Perry family.
Highlights Include:
- Autograph letters signed by Oliver Hazard Perry, including deeply personal correspondence to his wife and father during pivotal campaigns in 1813, with references to his expected command, military movements, and reflections following the victory at the Battle of Lake Erie.
- The original 1811 marriage certificate of Oliver Hazard Perry and Elizabeth Champlin Mason, and a
- Substantial lock of Perry’s hair cut posthumously and passed from Commodore Stephen Decatur to Perry’s widow.
· Following Perry’s stunning triumph at the Battle of Lake Erie, the collection captures the immediate aftermath with rare official letters from cities and states across the country. Highlights include congratulatory letters from Isaac Hull, Rufus King, and DeWitt Clinton; resolutions of gratitude from the states of Georgia, South Carolina, Massachusetts, and New York; and invitations from the civic committees of Boston, Philadelphia, and Savannah to public celebrations and dinners in Perry’s honor. The outpouring of national admiration is underscored by Perry’s honorary admission to the New York State Society of the Cincinnati — an honor generally reserved for Revolutionary War veterans.
· Of particular poignancy is a magnificent eight-page letter written by Acting Surgeon Thomas Morgan aboard the USS Nonsuch, providing a vivid, day-by-day account of Perry’s final illness and death from yellow fever in 1819 at Port of Spain, Trinidad. Morgan’s deeply moving narrative recounts Perry’s enduring Christian fortitude and his dignified composure in the face of mortality, offering perhaps the most intimate surviving portrayal of the Commodore's final days.
- Will and Probate document created in Port of Spain, Trinidad, immediately following Perry’s death in 1819, offering detailed witness testimony and official probate certification concerning his last wishes, burial, and estate—remarkable documents that preserve the solemn aftermath of Perry’s final voyage and passing.
- Two presidential military commissions for Perry’s sons, including:
- Oliver Hazard Perry Jr., commissioned as Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy, signed by President Martin Van Buren, dated March 3, 1841, the day before he left office.
- Christopher Raymond Perry Jr., commissioned as Second Lieutenant in the 4th Regiment of Infantry, signed by President John Tyler, dated December 26, 1844, and countersigned by Secretary of War William Wilkins.
- “Family Papers: Oliver Hazard Perry” – An extraordinary scrapbook-style archive album, housed in a gilt-lettered crimson folio binding, containing 19th- and early 20th-century newspaper clippings, printed memorials, engraved scenes of Perry’s naval exploits, portraits, tributes, and a large hand-drawn family tree tracing the Perry and allied Hagget family lineage across generations. The volume includes engravings from Gleason’s Pictorial, Harper’s Weekly, and other publications, documenting how Perry’s legend was celebrated in public memory.
- A remarkable group of over 20 original photographs dating from the mid-19th through early 20th centuries, featuring Perry family members and relations. Highlights include:
- A daguerreotype of a painted portrait of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, capturing the iconic likeness in early photographic form.
- Daguerreotypes of Oliver Hazard Perry Jr., along with other members of the Perry and Hagget families, encompassing a range of photographic media including glass plate negatives, tintypes, and albumen prints—an intimate genealogical record spanning multiple generations.
This extraordinary archive captures the private and public life of Commodore Perry, the national acclaim he received, the personal love he expressed to his family, and the continuation of military service through his descendants. From battlefield glory to family remembrance, it is a rare offering of historic magnitude and human depth—ideal for institutions, collectors of naval Americana, or those focused on War of 1812 and presidential ephemera.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if any other questions about items in this amazing collection.
Provenance: From the Perry family estate by direct descent.
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Below are more detailed descriptions of some of the letters, photos, and documents
Oliver Hazard Perry Letter to His Father, Discussing Naval Appointment Prospects (Newport, February 3, 1813))
An outstanding early personal letter from Oliver Hazard Perry to his father, Christopher Raymond Perry, written from Newport, Rhode Island, as Perry discusses his naval career prospects. He references a recommendation from Captain Chauncey regarding a potential appointment aboard the Argus or elsewhere on the Lakes, expresses concern over political obstacles within the Navy Department under Secretary Paul Hamilton, and humorously includes a poetic satire mocking naval rivalries. The letter, signed twice with Perry’s initials "O.H.P.," reveals the young officer’s wit, ambition, and awareness of political undercurrents during a critical early point in his career.
4 pages, folded for mailing, fine overall condition.
Oliver Hazard Perry Love Letter to His Wife Following the Battle of Lake Erie (Detroit, October 10, 1813)
A rare and heartfelt love letter from Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry to his wife, penned from Detroit after his historic triumph at the Battle of Lake Erie. Perry expresses his deep yearning to reunite with his wife, discusses movements against British forces at Malden and the Thames, and reflects on the honors earned through his campaign. Overflowing with tenderness and devotion, this remarkable letter provides a glimpse into the personal heart of one of America's greatest naval heroes at the pinnacle of his career.
4 pages, light age toning, excellent display potential.
Letter from the Philadelphia Select and Common Councils Honoring Oliver Hazard Perry (November 24, 1813)
An important two-page letter from the Committee of the Select and Common Councils of Philadelphia to Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, dated November 24, 1813. The committee offers heartfelt praise for Perry’s resounding victory at the Battle of Lake Erie on September 10, recognizing the immense service rendered to the nation. As a symbol of the city's gratitude, they request Perry accept a ceremonial sword. The letter also extends thanks to Perry’s officers and crews for their contributions to American glory. Signed by J. Markland, Chairman. Included is the original folded cover sheet addressed to Perry, postmarked from Philadelphia. A superb early civic tribute to one of America's rising naval heroes.
Formal Resolution of the State of Georgia Honoring Perry and His Fleet (November 4, 1813)
A highly significant multi-page formal resolution issued by the Georgia State Senate and House of Representatives. The document unanimously expresses gratitude to Captain Perry, Captain Hull, Stephen Decatur, Commodore Bainbridge, and the officers and men of the Lake Erie fleet. Praising Perry’s pivotal victory over superior British forces, the resolution compares the triumph’s importance to Cornwallis's surrender during the Revolution. It highlights the discipline, bravery, and national inspiration Perry’s squadron provided. The final page includes the approval and signatures of legislative leaders and Governor Peter Early. A stirring state-level testament to Perry’s historic impact.
Letter from Governor Peter Early of Georgia Transmitting Resolution Honoring Perry (January 13, 1814)
An official letter from Governor Peter Early of Georgia, dated January 13, 1814, forwarding a copy of the legislature’s formal resolution honoring Commodore Perry’s victory at Lake Erie. The letter expresses the Executive Department’s appreciation and reaffirms Georgia’s recognition of Perry’s service. Verso notes confirm enclosure of the resolution. A significant piece of Perry-related state correspondence.
Letter from Boston Committee Requesting Battle Drawing for Silver Tribute (November 19, 1813)
A letter to Commodore Perry from Thomas O. Selfridge, representing the citizens of Boston. Selfridge informs Perry that the city intends to honor him with engraved silverware commemorating his heroism at the Battle of Lake Erie. Since no satisfactory drawing of the battle exists, Selfridge requests Perry’s assistance in providing a sketch or recommendation for an artist. Includes the original folded cover addressed to Newport, Rhode Island, with remnants of the red wax seal. A vivid reflection of civic admiration and the role of artistic commemoration in Perry’s legacy.
Letter from Rufus King Congratulating Perry and Inviting Him to New York Dinner (January 24, 1814)
An elegant letter from prominent American statesman Rufus King, dated January 24, 1814. King invites Commodore Perry to a grand public dinner hosted by New York’s citizens to honor Perry’s and Commodore Chauncey’s vital services. King’s warm, formal tone reflects the deep national pride surrounding Perry’s achievements and the public eagerness to celebrate him. An outstanding letter from a future Vice President and diplomat.
Extract from the New York State Society of the Cincinnati Electing Perry as an Honorary Member (October 21, 1813)
An important document recording the resolution by the New York State Society of the Cincinnati to admit Oliver Hazard Perry as an honorary member following his victory at Lake Erie. The document praises Perry’s valor and patriotism, listing the captured British fleet, and is signed by Secretary Henry Dodge. A prestigious accolade aligning Perry with the revered veterans of the American Revolution.
Philadelphia Committee Letter Inviting Perry to Public Dinner (September 21, 1814)
A formal letter from a Philadelphia committee inviting Commodore Perry to a public dinner celebrating his services to the nation. Signed by eight distinguished citizens, including George Harrison, Lewis Clapier, and Charles Ross, the letter urges Perry to inform them of his return date to coordinate festivities. A fine testament to Perry’s continued public acclaim a year after his Lake Erie triumph.
Massachusetts House of Representatives Resolution Congratulating Perry (February 19, 1814)
Letter from Timothy Bigelow, Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, transmitting resolutions of thanks to Commodore Perry and his officers for their valor at Lake Erie. Bigelow commends Perry’s leadership, composure under pressure, and the heroic conduct of his men. A stirring expression of Massachusetts' pride in Perry’s victory and a valuable artifact of state-level recognition.
South Carolina Legislature Resolution Mourning the Death of Commodore Perry (December 13, 1819)
A rare and moving resolution issued by the Legislature of South Carolina mourning the death of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry aboard the USS John Adams at Trinidad. The document expresses profound public sorrow at the loss of a national hero, likening Perry’s death to a major loss for the Navy and the young republic. Signed by legislative leaders including Benjamin F. Huger and Patrick Noble, the resolution urges lasting memorial efforts to honor Perry’s service.
Letter from South Carolina Legislature Presenting Gold Medal to Mrs. Perry (January 15, 1820)
A formal letter from the South Carolina legislative committee to Sarah Perry, widow of Oliver Hazard Perry, enclosing resolutions and announcing the posthumous presentation of a gold medal in honor of her late husband’s victory at Lake Erie. Expressing condolences and national gratitude, the letter underscores the enduring reverence for Perry’s achievements even after his untimely death. Verso mailing details included.
List of Honors and Gifts Presented to Oliver Hazard Perry Following the Battle of Lake Erie
A remarkable original document listing the numerous honors and commemorative gifts awarded to Commodore Perry in the aftermath of his decisive victory. Included are engraved silver services from Boston, swords from Pennsylvania and New York, a gold box from the City of New York, and a silver vase from Newport, each detailed with inscriptions commemorating his leadership. Also noted is a poetic tribute and various medals and awards from civic bodies. A tangible record of the overwhelming national gratitude and admiration Perry received at the height of his fame.
Safe Passage Authorization from Admiral Sir Alexander Cochrane (June 14, 1814)
A British-issued safe passage letter dated June 14, 1814, signed by Admiral Sir Alexander Cochrane from Bermuda. The document authorizes the Swedish schooner Oscar to transport American citizens under parole conditions to the blockading squadron off New London. Notably countersigned by William Ellery, Collector of Customs at Newport, this letter reflects the complex diplomatic and operational realities during the War of 1812 and Perry’s broader context within that struggle.
Receipt for Initiation Fee into the Newport Marine Society (February 17, 1814)
A succinct and formal receipt documenting Oliver Hazard Perry’s payment of fifteen dollars for initiation into the prestigious Newport Marine Society, following a society vote dated January 14, 1814. Signed by Benjamin Hadwen, Secretary, this document highlights Perry’s engagement with key maritime professional organizations during his lifetime.
Receipt for Passage Fare Paid by O.H. Perry (May 17, 1819)
A handwritten receipt dated May 17, 1819, acknowledging Perry’s payment of ten dollars for the passage of an individual named Buckley from New York to Newport. A modest but revealing artifact of Perry’s personal affairs during his final years, accompanied by a simple docketing notation reading “Buckley’s passage 1819.”
Receipt for Sale of Stuart’s Portrait of Perry (1857)
An important 1857 receipt recording the payment of $125 by O.H. Perry, Esq., to T.F. Holden for a portrait of Commodore Perry painted by Gilbert Stuart. Also referenced is the portrait’s earlier sale by Sam Ward to his daughter. The verso reiterates the transaction details. A rare piece linking Perry’s posthumous fame to one of America’s greatest portrait artists.
Copy of a Letter by British Officer R.A. Barclay, Addressed to Christopher Champlin (October 25, 1813)
A copy of a humorous and poignant letter written by British naval officer R.A. Barclay from Buffalo County, Niagara, in the aftermath of the Battle of Lake Erie. Barclay comments on his survival despite battle wounds and expresses admiration for Perry’s gallantry and humane treatment of prisoners. Includes a poetic tribute praising Perry’s victory. Accompanied by later correspondence from the Boston Navy Yard forwarding Barclay’s materials to Christopher Champlin. With original docketing and wax seal remnants.
Congratulatory Letter to Perry from Joseph H. Wood (Philadelphia, September 26, 1813)
A heartfelt letter from Joseph H. Wood to Commodore Perry, written shortly after the Battle of Lake Erie. Wood expresses deep admiration for Perry’s victory and requests permission to commission an engraving based on an earlier miniature portrait. Wood further seeks biographical details for publication, underscoring Perry’s emerging national fame. Includes the original addressed panel with Philadelphia postmarks.
Printed Broadside from the Newport Mercury Reporting Perry’s Victory (September 27, 1813)
A highly important printed broadside excerpted from the Newport Mercury, announcing Commodore Perry’s September 10th triumph at Lake Erie. The broadside reprints Perry’s famous dispatch ("We have met the enemy and they are ours") and summarizes the surrender of the British squadron. It also includes extracts from General Harrison’s headquarters. A stirring and patriotic relic of American naval history.
Letter from Commodore Isaac Chauncey to Captain O.H. Perry Regarding Court Martial of Capt. John Heath (October 16, 1816)
Letter from Commodore Isaac Chauncey to Captain Oliver Hazard Perry aboard the USS Java, confirming the receipt of Perry’s formal charges against Marine Captain John Heath. Chauncey assures Perry that a court martial will be convened as soon as practical and instructs Perry to provide Heath with a copy of the charges. An important piece of administrative correspondence reflecting Perry’s continued responsibility for maintaining discipline among his officers.
Court Martial Verdicts Presided Over by Oliver Hazard Perry (1816)
A rare series of court martial documents involving proceedings against several naval officers aboard the USS Java and USS Washington. As President of the court, Perry presides over the trials of Midshipmen John D. Camberleng, William H. Ramsay, and Philip K. Dunham, resulting in acquittals, reprimands, and dismissals. Also includes the acquittal of Captain John Orde Creighton and a reprimand letter from Commodore Chauncey stressing the importance of discipline. These documents provide invaluable insight into Perry’s leadership style and standards of naval conduct.
Detailed Letter Describing Oliver Hazard Perry’s Final Illness and Death (Port of Spain, August 1819)
An extraordinary eight-page letter by Acting Surgeon Thomas Morgan of the USS Nonsuch, offering a detailed first-hand account of Commodore Perry’s final illness and death from yellow fever. Written for the Perry family, the letter chronicles Perry’s final days with remarkable clarity and emotional depth, describing his symptoms, medical treatments, courage, and spiritual composure. Morgan recounts Perry’s final hours, the embalming process, and the solemn atmosphere aboard ship. A profoundly moving document offering intimate insights into the last chapter of Perry’s remarkable life.
Marriage Certificate of Oliver Hazard Perry and Elizabeth Champlin Mason (May 5, 1811)
A highly important marriage document confirming the union of Oliver Hazard Perry and Elizabeth Champlin Mason, solemnized in Newport, Rhode Island. Certified by Jonathan Almy, Town Clerk, this formal record of Perry’s marriage is a rare surviving artifact from his personal life. Also included is a verso endorsement identifying it as Perry’s marriage certificate, with references to an article from the Newport Mercury and Perry’s military exploits. A deeply personal and historic document linking the “Hero of Lake Erie” to his family roots.
Large Lock of Hair Belonging to Oliver Hazard Perry, with Provenance
An extraordinary and intimate relic: a large lock of Oliver Hazard Perry’s hair, preserved after his death in 1819. The lock was originally given to Commodore Stephen Decatur, a close friend and contemporary, and later transferred to Perry’s widow. Physical relics of Perry are exceptionally rare, and this carefully preserved lock provides a tangible, deeply personal connection to one of America’s greatest naval heroes.
Letter of Congratulations from the City of Savannah to Commodore Perry (October 25, 1813)
A formal letter from the Mayor of Savannah, George Jones, conveying the city’s profound admiration and thanks to Commodore Perry following the Battle of Lake Erie. The letter praises Perry’s gallant service and immortal fame, emphasizing the significance of the victory for national pride. The verso shows the addressed panel with postal markings to Perry at Lake Erie, capturing the city’s heartfelt tribute to a national icon.
Letter of Congratulations from DeWitt Clinton Forwarding New York Common Council Resolutions (October 10, 1813)
Letter from DeWitt Clinton transmitting resolutions from the Common Council of New York, extolling Perry’s extraordinary leadership at Lake Erie. Clinton’s accompanying remarks emphasize the unparalleled nature of the victory and Perry’s place among America’s greatest commanders. Verso address panel confirms the letter's origin and purpose, underscoring the formal and civic celebration of Perry’s achievements.
Letter of Congratulations from the New York Committee for a Public Dinner Honoring Perry (January 15, 1814)
A letter from a committee of prominent New York citizens — including Thomas R. Mercein and Philip Hone — inviting Commodore Perry to a public dinner in recognition of his services. The letter affirms Perry’s standing as a symbol of American triumph and national pride. Verso notations confirm the date and honor conveyed, offering a window into the widespread public adulation Perry received.
South Carolina Legislative Resolution Honoring Perry’s Memory and Offering Condolences to His Widow (December 13, 1819)
A formal, heartfelt resolution issued by the South Carolina Legislature mourning the loss of Commodore Perry, emphasizing his significance to the country’s naval power and young identity. The resolution advocates for memorialization efforts, including potential monuments, and recognizes the impact of Perry’s death as a national tragedy. Signed by legislative leaders and accompanied by docketing and filing notes.
Letter from South Carolina Legislative Committee to Mrs. Perry Regarding Gold Medal Presentation (January 15, 1820)
An official communication from the South Carolina Legislative Committee, dated January 15, 1820, enclosing the formal resolutions of the state honoring Commodore Perry and notifying Mrs. Perry of the posthumous presentation of a gold medal in his honor. The letter’s respectful tone and careful enclosure details reflect the enduring national reverence for Perry’s legacy.
Joseph H. Wood Letter Congratulating Perry and Requesting Permission for a Portrait Engraving (September 26, 1813)
A warm letter from Philadelphia artist Joseph H. Wood offering congratulations to Commodore Perry on his "glorious achievement" at the Battle of Lake Erie. Wood requests Perry’s permission to produce an engraving based on a miniature portrait and asks for a biographical sketch. The letter reflects Perry’s rapid ascension into national celebrity status, and the verso address panel confirms the date and mailing origin.
Final Illness and Death of Commodore Perry: Detailed Medical Account by Acting Surgeon Thomas Morgan (1819)
A monumental and emotional eight-page letter authored by Acting Surgeon Thomas Morgan aboard the USS Nonsuch, recounting the onset, progression, and final hours of Commodore Perry’s fatal yellow fever illness at Port of Spain. Morgan provides a clinical yet compassionate description of Perry’s bravery, patience, religious faith, and calm acceptance of death. He recounts Perry’s remarkable mental clarity even as his body failed. The account concludes with details of Perry’s embalming and respectful burial preparations, offering the most intimate surviving portrayal of the final days of one of America’s greatest naval figures.
Letter from Boston Committee Requesting Battle Depiction for Silver Presentation to Perry (November 19, 1813)
A fine letter from Thomas O. Selfridge, written on behalf of a Boston committee seeking to honor Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry with a silver service. Selfridge requests Perry’s assistance in obtaining an accurate depiction of the Battle of Lake Erie to be engraved onto the silver, noting the absence of a suitable existing image. This correspondence reflects the civic enthusiasm and pride Perry’s victory inspired across American cities and highlights early efforts at memorializing naval heroes through fine artistry.
Invitation from Rufus King for Perry to Attend New York Dinner in His Honor (January 24, 1814)
Letter from prominent American diplomat Rufus King, extending an invitation to Commodore Perry for a public dinner in New York celebrating his victory at Lake Erie. King’s words convey the deep admiration held for Perry by the citizens of New York, and the broader national desire to publicly honor the country’s newest naval hero. A choice example of post-battle civic celebration.
Minutes of the New York State Society of the Cincinnati Electing Perry as an Honorary Member (October 21, 1813)
Extract from the minutes of the New York State Society of the Cincinnati formally admitting Commodore Perry as an honorary member. The document records the Society’s unanimous recognition of Perry’s "signal victory" and his service to the country, aligning him with the legacy of Revolutionary War heroes. A significant civic and military honor reflecting the continuity of American valor across generations.
Philadelphia Committee Letter Inviting Perry to Public Dinner (September 21, 1814)
Formal invitation from a distinguished committee of Philadelphia citizens, including George Harrison and Lewis Clapier, inviting Perry to a public dinner to honor his service to the nation. The letter underlines Perry’s enduring status as a national hero even a year after the Battle of Lake Erie, and the committee’s eagerness to celebrate his continued contributions to American naval strength.
Massachusetts House of Representatives Resolution Honoring Commodore Perry (February 19, 1814)
Official communication from Timothy Bigelow, Speaker of the Massachusetts House, transmitting resolutions praising Commodore Perry’s valor and leadership at Lake Erie. The letter reflects Massachusetts’ profound admiration for Perry’s coolness, bravery, and the victory’s importance for the United States. A vital state-level tribute affirming Perry’s enduring fame.
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British Safe Passage Authorization Signed by Admiral Sir Alexander Cochrane (June 14, 1814)
Official safe conduct letter issued by British Admiral Sir Alexander Cochrane in Bermuda, permitting the Swedish schooner Oscar to carry American citizens under parole conditions through the British blockade to New London. Signed additionally by William Ellery, Collector of Customs at Newport, Rhode Island. This document reflects the diplomatic and logistical realities of wartime prisoner exchanges during the War of 1812 and provides critical context to Perry’s operational environment.
Receipt for Oliver Hazard Perry’s Membership Fee in the Newport Marine Society (February 17, 1814)
Receipt acknowledging the payment of fifteen dollars by Captain Oliver Hazard Perry for his initiation into the Newport Marine Society. Signed by Benjamin Hadwen, Secretary, this artifact documents Perry’s ties to leading maritime associations at the time of his greatest naval successes.
Receipt for Payment by O.H. Perry for Passage of an Individual (May 17, 1819)
Brief handwritten receipt noting ten dollars received from O.H. Perry for the passage of a person named Buckley from New York to Newport. A small but personal glimpse into Perry’s private financial transactions shortly before his untimely death.
Receipt for Purchase of Gilbert Stuart Portrait of Perry (1857)
An important 1857 receipt recording the sale of a portrait of Commodore Perry, painted by renowned American artist Gilbert Stuart, to T.F. Holden for $125. The document references prior ownership by Samuel Ward. A fascinating artifact connecting Perry’s image to one of America's most celebrated portraitists.
Copy of British Officer R.A. Barclay’s Letter Regarding the Battle of Lake Erie (October 25, 1813)
Copy of a letter by British officer R.A. Barclay, reflecting on the Battle of Lake Erie, expressing admiration for Perry’s humane treatment of prisoners and remarking on his own battle wounds. Barclay’s good-humored tone and poetic tribute to Perry provide rare British testimony to Perry’s gallantry and humanity during wartime.
Congratulatory Letter to Perry from Joseph H. Wood Requesting Portrait Permission (Philadelphia, September 26, 1813)
A heartfelt letter from Joseph H. Wood offering congratulations and requesting Perry’s approval to publish an engraving based on an earlier miniature portrait. Wood also seeks a brief biographical sketch for publication, demonstrating how Perry’s fame rapidly spread throughout the American public.
Letter from Commodore Isaac Chauncey to Oliver Hazard Perry Regarding Court Martial (October 16, 1816)
Letter from Commodore Isaac Chauncey aboard the USS Washington, acknowledging Perry’s charges against Captain John Heath of the Marine Guard and promising a court martial. Chauncey’s formal yet supportive tone illustrates the responsibilities of senior naval officers in maintaining discipline within their commands.
Letter and Resolution Mourning Oliver Hazard Perry’s Death (South Carolina, December 13, 1819)
Formal resolution issued by the Legislature of South Carolina, mourning the death of Commodore Perry aboard the USS John Adams in Trinidad. The document expresses the profound public sorrow felt by the nation at the loss of one of its greatest naval heroes. Signed by leading legislators, the resolution calls for honoring Perry’s memory through lasting tributes and acknowledges the enduring inspiration he provided to the United States Navy.
Receipt for Oliver Hazard Perry’s Membership in the Newport Marine Society (February 17, 1814)
Receipt confirming Oliver Hazard Perry’s fifteen-dollar payment to join the Newport Marine Society, reflecting Perry’s active membership in important maritime and naval circles during the height of his fame.
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Oliver Hazard Perry: Family Archive Scrapbook Album
A remarkable bound volume titled Family Papers: Oliver Hazard Perry, containing a rich assemblage of printed, manuscript, and photographic materials chronicling the life, legacy, and lineage of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry. Housed in a deep red gilt-lettered folio album, this scrapbook-style compilation serves as a curated family archive that documents Perry's heroism, memorialization, and the enduring pride of his descendants.
The volume includes numerous 19th- and early 20th-century newspaper and magazine clippings, such as illustrated articles from Gleason’s Pictorial and Harper’s Weekly, highlighting major naval scenes including the iconic transfer between the Lawrence and the Niagara during the Battle of Lake Erie, commemorative silver presented to Perry, and statues raised in his honor. The album also contains biographical tributes, obituaries, and retrospectives on his naval service and tragic early death.
Striking visual elements include large engraved fold-outs of U.S. naval engagements, formal portraiture of Perry and his wife, photographic reproductions of silver presentation pieces, and mounted newspaper portraits. The collection culminates with a substantial hand-drawn family tree showing multiple generations of the Perry lineage, anchoring Oliver Hazard Perry’s legacy in American naval and familial history.
An extraordinary artifact of patriotic memory and genealogical pride, this volume provides an intimate window into how Perry’s legend was maintained and honored through generations, and how his historical image was shaped in public media and private remembrance.
Some of the Perry Family Photos Included in Archive:
Daguerreotype of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry engraving
Daguerreotype of Oliver H. Perry Jr.
Daguerreotype of Marianne Moseley Perry
Daguerreotype of Marianne Moseley Perry and O.H. Perry.
Picture - Mrs. Mary Grenleaf of Newburyport, RI.
Picture of Jabez Fox.
Daguerreotype of Marianne Moseley Perry.
Daguerreotype Sarah Hardinson & Helen Haggett.
Ambrotype of Helen Haggett?
Daguerreotype Captain O.H. Perry Jr. born 1815, and his son?
Many pictures of the Haggett and Perry clans......