Boston (CA 69) - Naval Cruise Book

Page 6 text:

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Page 5 text:

MINE IS A PROUD LINEAGE Back in 1776, a Boston formed part of the tiny fleet which comprised the first real United States Navy. Through the years, as the Navy has grown, expanded, and im- proved, a Boston has served almost con- tinuously. Five Bostons have preceded me . . . each of which has been a fine ship of her day. So it's entirely in keeping with the tradition of the name Boston in the United States Navy that I, sixth ship of my name to serve, represent the most modern development in the bui1ding,of men-of-war. I'm justifiably proud of my ancestry, as you'll readily understand when you trace my family tree. A 24-GUN FRIGATE WAS MY FIRST ANCESTOR The Revolution was already well under way. Lexington and Bunker Hill had record- ed their glorious endeavor. But the sea was still in British hands. Realizing this situation, the Continental Congress authorized the first American Navy. This fleet consisted of five ships of 32 guns, five of 28 guns, three of 24 guns. In her day, a 24-gun frigate was a size- able ship. This first Boston , in four years of service, made quite a record, capturing numerous British ships in both European and Caribbean waters. In addition to her battles, she was selected to carry the Hon- orable Iohn Adams, Commissioner to France, to his post in 1778. However, at the time the British captured Charleston, South Carolina, she was in that port. Resistance was futile, and she was taken by the British: subsequently serving in the Royal Navy.

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THIR THE THIRD BOSTON WAS A REAL FIGHTING SHIP OF HER DAY! Growing commerce needed con- fidence and surety while on the high seas. Big, fast fighters were needed to Combat the Barbary pirates and the marauding privateers of Revolution- torn France. Born of necessity, this third Bos- ton was financed by Boston mer- chants at a cost of Sll9,57O. Built at the Continental Shipyards in North Boston, she inaugurated .a new Naval era. Prior to her building, copper for shipbuilding had been imported from England. Her construction broke away from this practice, as she was sheath- ed and fastened from the first Amer- ican-made copper to be used in ship- building. In fact, Paul Revere, the famous American patriot, is credited with manufacturing the copper used in this Boston .