The man honored today as “The Father of the American Navy” came from County Wexford – and is remembered as one of the most courageous leaders of the American Revolution.
John Barry was born in 1745 in Ballysampson, Tacumshane, County Wexford. His family moved to nearby Rosslare on the coast after they were evicted by their landlord. Barry became a cabin boy before going on to join the Royal Navy.
As a young man, he left for America and began working as a captain on on merchant ships. With the prospect of war breaking out, he volunteered for the revolutionary cause and joined the Continental Navy on March 14, 1776. He became the captain of the Lexington in 1775, quickly earning a reputation for his skill and fearlessness – and scored America’s first naval war prize when he captured the British ship Edward in 1776.
Throughout the war, his victories would continue, as he repeatedly outmaneuvered British ships, and fought the last naval battle of the Revolution in 1783.
After the war, George Washington appointed him as the first commissioned officer of the newly formed United State Navy. He would go on to develop the Navy’s fleet and train the next generation of naval heroes.
Barry was a member of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick in Philadelphia, and was known as charitable man as well as a leader of his community, supporting the widows and orphans of sailors generously.
He died on September 13, 1803 in Philadelphia, and he is buried in the graveyard of St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church. Dr. Benjamin Rush, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, remarked in his graveside eulogy, “He was born in Ireland, but America was the object of his devotion and the theater of his usefulness.”
Legacy
Barry is remembered in America today with monuments and memorials commemorating his life – and much of his recognition is due to the efforts of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, who also celebrate his life with Commodore Barry Day every September 13.
Further Reading:
Hibernians celebrate the life and legacy of Commodore Barry, Irish founder of US Navy
IrishAmerica250.org 