Preble's Flag-- Part 2: Opening of Japan

Commodore Matthew C. Perry (a War of 1812 veteran) arrived in Japan for the second time in February 1854 with ten ships, including the former frigate USS Macedonian now a sloop of war and under the command of War of 1812 veteran Captain Joel Abbott.  (The Macedonian had been built from the keel of the original Macedonian from the War of 1812).

Japan's opening was a new market for the United States, but trade with the Orient was nothing new as commerce with China had continued since 1785 when the Philadelphia merchant ship Canton had visited the country.

Chinese pirates began attacking American ships.  Perry determined at this time to stop these pirates.

--Brock-Perry

USS Cyane-- Part 5: U.S. Navy Midshipman Commands a Slaver

On 5 April 1820, off the coast of Africa, the USS Cyane captured six vessels believed to be involved in the slave trade.  The Esperanza and Endymion were of American registry and became prizes for carrying slaves in violation of U.S. law.  The Esperanza was out of Charleston, S.C..  The Endymion was out of Baltimore and under the command of master Alexander M'Kim Andrews, a midshipman in the U.S. Navy.

I looked up this man, but couldn't find any more information.  This would have to be an interesting story.  I'm sure he must have lost his commission.

Notables who served on the Cyane:

In 1819, Matthew Calbraith Perry, brother of War of 1812 hero Oliver Hazard Perry.  He was also at the Battle of Lake Erie with his brother and later became famous for opening Japan.

Also Jesse Duncan Elliott who commanded the USS Niagara at the Battle of Lake Erie until Perry transferred his flag from the battered USS Lawrence.  Elliott later came under fire for keeping his ship out of the battle as long as he did, enabling the British to concentrate their fire on the Lawrence.

--Brock-Perry