Ship's Crew
William Leonard
Rank(s): Able Seaman
Dates of Service: 2/5/1811 - 12/18/1813
Early Life
Leonard’s date and birth is unknown but he was probably born in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Leonard married Rachel Batten on May 5, 1798 in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Together the couple had a son named William (b. 1802, d. 1829). During 1813, he allotted $9.00 per month to Rachel.
Leonard enlisted as a seaman on February 5, 1811 at Charleston, South Carolina. He was promoted to quartermaster on August 25, 1811. He left Constitution on December 18, 1813 at Boston.
Battles and Engagements
During Leonard’s time on board, the ship patrolled the American coast enforcing US trade laws, and later made a diplomatic voyage to northern Europe. He participated in victories over HMS Guerriere on August 19, 1812 and HMS Java on December 29, 1812. He shared with the crew $50,000 in prize money for the first victory and received $148.43 in prize money for the last victory. During the battle with Java , he was stationed at the wheel. A British shot came over the stern and struck the wheel, shattering it completely. Of the four men stationed there, Leonard was the only one to escape death or serious injury.
Leonard’s date of death is not known, but he had died by 1820.
Crew ID
8230
