A Look at the Origins of the U.S. Navy

On October 13, 1775, the Continental Congress approved the formation of what would become the United States Navy. Interestingly, this powerful navy started out as just a single fishing vessel.

It all began in August 1775, when George Washington, driven by a desperate need for gunpowder and a touch of American creativity, tasked John Glover—a merchant, fishing captain, and regimental commander from Marblehead—to prepare the schooner Hanna for conflict.

Transforming a fishing vessel into a warship to take on the Royal Navy, which was the largest in history at that time, might seem absurd in hindsight. Yet, due to British disarmament and the scarcity of gunpowder in the colonies, necessity led to innovation.

While it’s unclear whether the suggestion to employ privateers against British vessels originated with Glover or Washington, Glover’s troops were specifically chosen to safeguard Washington’s headquarters in Cambridge. Washington’s trust in Glover, paired with the latter’s experience, undoubtedly influenced his decision to arm American ships, leading to the creation of the first American war vessels.

A handful of officials, including Elbridge Gerry and John Adams from Marblehead, previously attempted to convince Washington that the powerful Royal Navy was not as formidable as it seemed. Adams, perhaps recalling his own experiences, argued that American sailors possessed greater fighting spirit compared to the reluctant British sailors who were often impressed into service. He even suggested that American sloops and schooners had skilled crews that could easily catch ships, unlike the discontented men on British vessels. Adams urged Washington to explore this idea, but Washington dismissed the notion on August 11.

However, the urgent need for gunpowder spurred Washington, with Glover’s assistance, to establish a navy, beginning with the 78-ton Hanna. The strategy was to intercept one of the many unprotected British ships entering Boston Harbor to resupply General Thomas Gage’s forces. Since only Congress had the authority to create a navy, Washington had to keep these plans confidential to avoid taking on significant responsibility if they failed.

At Glover Pier in Beverly, carpenters worked quickly to modify the fishing vessel, cutting out gunports, reinforcing the deck for four 4-pound cannons, and adding rotating cannons for defense. They also made modifications to enhance speed, finally readying the Hanna for its mission once it was loaded with gunpowder.

Captained by Nicholas Broughton, a seasoned Marblehead captain, and manned by a crew of 38 volunteers, the Hanna set sail on September 15, driven partly by the promise of rewards for capturing enemy ships. Shortly after leaving Beverley Harbor, they encountered two British warships, the 20-gun Lively and the 8-gun Savage, and skillfully navigated away from potential disaster.

Just two days into their journey, they thought they spotted their first target. A 260-ton vessel named Unity, an American-registered merchant ship that had been captured by the British, was spotted heading toward occupied Boston Harbor. Broughton ordered the ship to surrender, and the crew eagerly believed they had struck gold.

But soon, Washington uncovered a shocking truth: the Unity had been seized by a secretive navy that operated independent of Congress, owned by Congressman John Langdon. He swiftly ordered its release, which led to backlash from Broughton and the crew. In a dramatic twist, as tensions escalated, this marked one of America’s first mutinies.

Despite this setback, Washington recognized the strategic importance of naval power. Realizing that capturing a ship could significantly alter the course of the war, he commanded Broughton to gather a new crew and return the Hanna to sea.

On October 10, the Hanna sailed again but soon found herself pursued by the British ship Nautilus. Broughton maneuvered the Hanna back toward Beverley Harbor, well aware of the dangers that loomed. Unfortunately, the vessel ran aground, and as the British advanced, the local townspeople, with Glover’s regiment, rushed to defend her.

Using muskets and salvaged artillery, they managed to repel the British assault. Amid the chaos, Captain Collins of the Nautilus decided to retreat rather than risk further damage.

Though the Hanna would never see action as a warship again, her story became intertwined with the inception of the U.S. Navy, highlighting Glover’s contributions. He later gained fame for his role in critical battles, including the evacuation of the Continental Army at Brooklyn and ferrying Washington’s forces across the Delaware River during a pivotal moment in American history.