Ship's Crew

Apt entered the Navy on July 3, 1812 in Annapolis, Maryland as an able seaman. As such he was required to have a thorough understanding of the workings of the ship, in particular how to work aloft to take in and make sail when necessary, the control of the helm, and rigging work, along with the multitude of other tasks that were needed for the ship to sail efficiently.

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, be able to 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

Apt’s battle station was at the no. 8 Long Gun, where he served as the 2nd Loader as well as the 1st Boarder. He was on board the ship to participate in the defeats of HMS Guerriere and HMS Java and received prize money for both captures.

Apt left Constitution sometime after February 17, 1813. His date and place of death are unknown.