Ship's Crew
Francis Mc Cann
Rank(s): Marine Private
Dates of Service: 6/11/1812 - 7/16/1815
Birth Date: 1773
Early Life
McCann was born in Ireland around the year 1773.
Early Experience
McCann had had prior experience as a soldier before joining the Marine Corps, but it is not known if he served in the American or British armies. On December 24, 1811, he enlisted for five years in the Marines under Captain Gale in Philadelphia. In 1811, McCann stood 5 feet, 4 inches tall, and had grey eyes, brown hair, and a light complexion.
Private McCann first came on board Constitution on June 11, 1812 while the ship was at the Washington Navy Yard. He was transferred to the Charlestown Navy Yard on June 2, 1814, but on December 10 of the same year he came back on board. He remained on board until July 16, 1815.
Battles and Engagements
McCann participated in the battles against HMS Guerriere on August 19, 1812 and HMS Java on December 29, 1812, receiving $42.62 ½ and $42.30 in prize money for the victories. He was on board when Constitution captured a British man-of-war schooner and three merchant vessels in 1814. He fought in the battle with HMS Cyane and HMS Levant on February 20, 1815.
McCann served for a time on board the newly-launched 74-gun ship Independence, but was finally discharged from the Marine Corps for medical reasons on December 10, 1815.
Crew ID
9739
