Barbary Wars Documents

Rare two-document early American maritime customs archive dating to March 26, 1803, relating to the schooner George of New York under master Sheldon Chapman, carrying merchandise from New York to Alexandria, Virginia and the Washington, D.C. area during the early Jefferson administration and Barbary Wars.

The Barbary Wars were important because they marked the first US military engagement overseas, established the credibility of US military power, and set a precedent for American resistance to foreign piracy and tribute demands.

The group consists of an original printed-and-manuscript cargo manifest together with its related New York customs master's oath/clearance document. Both documents identify Sheldon Chapman as master, strongly indicating that they survive together from the same voyage rather than being unrelated early shipping papers.

The large manifest records approximately 30 cargo entries in columns headed “Marks & Numbers,” “No. of Entries,” “Packages and Contents,” “Shippers,” “Residence,” “Consignees,” and “Residence.” Numerous contemporary merchants are identified, providing an unusually detailed record of the commercial network connecting New York with the newly established national-capital region.

Of particular historical interest is James L. Cathcart of Washington, identifiable as a shipper on the manifest. James Leander Cathcart (1767–1843) was an American sailor, diplomat and U.S. consul remembered for his involvement in early American relations with the Barbary States. His consignee appears to be John Woodside of Washington, Cathcart's father-in-law, strengthening the identification. Other names visible on the documents include prominent Alexandria and New York commercial figures, including James Patton and Moses Rogers & Co.

The accompanying customs document records Chapman as master of the schooner George of New York and authorizes the vessel to proceed to Alexandria, Virginia. The date line appears to contain a contemporary manuscript correction to the final digit of the preprinted “180_” year, giving March 26, 1803. This correction is original to the document and forms part of its administrative history.

Both sheets retain extensive period manuscript writing and signatures. The manifest additionally retains an old red customs marking/seal. Paper exhibits expected age-related toning, folds, edge wear, small losses and other handling consistent with working maritime documents more than two centuries old. Please examine photographs carefully for condition.

An evocative surviving record of Federal-period American coastal commerce, documenting the movement of goods and merchants between New York, Alexandria and Washington only a few years after the federal government relocated to the new capital.

Date: March 26, 1803

Vessel: Schooner George

Master: Sheldon Chapman

Origin: New York

Destination: Alexandria, Virginia / Washington area

Notable name: James L. Cathcart

Documents: Cargo manifest and related customs oath/clearance, two sheets