Ship's Crew
James Dunham
Rank(s): Able Seaman
Dates of Service: -
Early Life
Dunham’s place and date of birth are unknown.
Early Experience
Dunham joined the Navy as an able seaman and so likely had previous seagoing experience.
Able Seaman Dunham joined Constitution’s crew July 10, 1810 at Hampton Roads, VA. He left the ship February 7, 1813 at Boston, MA. In 1812, he served as second boarder at long gun no. 6 in the second division.
The able seaman was the elite member of the crew. Having sailed for years “before the mast” on merchant vessels or worked his way up through the ranks in the navy, it was on him that the officers relied for the smooth operation of the ship. The traditional requirements for the seaman were that he be able to “hand (furl or take in a sail), reef (reduce a sail’s area), and steer,” but these were in fact the barest requirements for the seaman rating. In addition, they were expected to be familiar with nearly all aspects of shipboard labor. He had to be able to cast the sounding lead, sew a sail with a palm and needle, and understand all parts of the rigging and the stowage of the hold. Furthermore, he had to know how to fight as part of a gun crew or with small arms. It was from the ranks of the able seamen that the petty and warrant officers were drawn. The able seaman made $12.00 per month.
Battles and Engagements
Dunham participated in victories over 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.
Dunham’s place and date of death are unknown.
Crew ID
3585
