Ship's Crew
Francis Mullen
Rank(s): Marine Private
Dates of Service: 6/1/1810 - 3/1/1813
Birth Date: 1778
Early Life
Francis Mullen was born in Ireland in 1778.
Early Experience
Francis Mullen enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on May 24, 1809 and, before the War of 1812, was posted to USS President. When he enlisted, he stated that he had formerly been a “soldier,” indicating that he may have served in the British army or marines before coming to America. At his enlistment in 1809, Mullen stood 5 feet, 9 inches tall, and had grey eyes, black hair, and a dark complexion.
Marines were frequently transferred from ship to ship and barracks to barracks as needed. Mullen entered Constitution for the first time in June 1810. Transferred to the Washington Navy Yard in April 1812, Mullen once again joined Constitution a week before the declaration of war against Great Britain. He remained on board until transferred to President again in March 1813.
Battles and Engagements
As described in a letter written by Lieutenant John Contee, Mullen was wounded during the battle against HMS Guerriere on August 19, 1812:
After Mullen initially recovered from his leg wound, the Navy transferred him to USS President in March 1813. Captain John Rodgers commended his service, remarking, “I have good reason, from personal knowledge & observation, to believe him to be an honest & deserving man.” Unfortunately for Mullen, his leg never properly healed. The doctors who examined him at the U.S. Naval Hospital declared “that his right leg, which had been wounded by a musket ball, is varicose, and when he takes exercise, very painful.” Disabled by his injury, Mullen applied for a pension in 1820 and was soon granted a half pension of $3 a month.
Crew ID
9649
