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Document 28097

FRANKLIN PIERCE and JAMES C. DOBBIN
Naval commission of future Union Commander in the Civil War.
Partly Printed DS: "Franklin Pierce" as President and "J.C. Dobbin" as Secretary of the Navy, 1p, 15x18. On vellum. Washington, 1856 July 24. In part: "Know Ye, that reposing special Trust and Confidence in the Patriotism, Valour, Fidelity and Abilities of Thomas C. Harris, I have nominated and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, do appoint him a Lieutenant in the Navy from the 15th of September 1855 in the service of the United States...And I do strictly charge, and require, all Officers, Seamen and Marines, under his Command to be obedient to his Orders as a Lieutenant...." THOMAS C. HARRIS had entered the Navy in 1841 as a Midshipman. In 1862, during the Civil War, he was appointed Lieutenant Commander. As commander of the Chippewa, he participated in several attacks on Fort Wagner, Morris Island in July 1863 and December 1864. He also participated in the January 1865 attack on Fort Fisher. After the Civil War, Harris was promoted to Commander upon the recommendation of Admiral David D. Porter "in consideration of his cool performance of duty in these actions." Porter had commanded naval forces in the attack on Fort Fisher. Commander Harris was only 49 when he died in 1875. JAMES DOBBIN served as Secretary of the Navy from March of 1853 to March of 1857. During his tenure, he implemented his aggressive plan for reinvigorating the antiquated force of ships and increased recruitment. He brought steam power into the Navy and improved the system of naval promotions and training. Naval commissions of Civil War officers are scarce. Folds, one vertical fold touches the "n" in Dobbin. Fine condition.

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