Ship's Crew
Robert Brice
Rank(s): Quarter Gunner
Dates of Service: 8/4/1811 - 8/19/1812
Death Date: 8/19/1812
Early Life
Brice lived in New London, Connecticut before moving to Providence, Rhode Island in 1812.
Early Experience
Brice previously served aboard USS Essex, a 36-gun fifth rate frigate.
Brice joined USS Constitution on August 4, 1811.
Due to his previous experience, Brice was an able seaman. He was also rated as a quarter gunner, aiding the gunner and gunner’s mate with the maintenance of the guns on board; this duty earned him $19 per month.
Battles and Engagements
While on board Constitution , Brice made a diplomatic voyage to France and Holland. He was killed during the battle with HMS Guerriere on August 19, 1812, when the gun he was loading went off because it had not been adequately sponged out and cooled off after its last firing.
After his death his widow, Nancy Brice, who lived in Norwich, Connecticut, received $72 a year for 10 years until she remarried.
Crew ID
1478
